A Crying Shame (36 page)

The others disagreed.
He is one human. He will be easy. As the others have been.”

But the first young Link was not at all sure about that. He was the oldest of the break-away Links, and he sensed this human had something of the animal in him. He moved like the great cats that used to live in the swamp, silent and sure and deadly.

We'll test him this night,” he finally signaled.

 

It's as you said.” Mike looked up as Jon entered the den.
Paul believed they are producing human babies—a few—and they have passed them into our society. Some then help their true kind.”

That's a good ol' colored word, Mike. Pass. Shows you're a real southerner.”

How about intermingling with humans?” Mike said tightly.

Jon sensed the sheriff was taking offense at the kidding. He smiled to lessen the strain.
Either one is fine, Mike. I was only joking. I was born in Louisiana, too.”

Sorry. But I just don't see anything to joke about. I've got one hell of a problem on my hands.”

Yes, you do. But I'll help you in any way I can—if that is any consolation.” He glanced at a complicated-looking wrist watch.
Well, if you're quite through here, I'd like to return to town, pick up Miss Breaux and my car.”

Ms.,” Mike corrected.

Badon looked strangely at him.
Why are you hissing?”

I'm not hissing! She's a Ms. M—S—period.”