Page 76 of Strangers in Time

Now that Oliver had mentioned it, perhaps he could inquire with hisfriendabout what had happened to her father, Molly thought. “I hope you didn’t walk here in such weather.”

“A rumble in the rain is actually invigorating.” He glanced at Charlie. “It was a very fine service, Charlie.”

Charlie and Molly both gaped.

Charlie said, “Service?”

“At your grandmother’s funeral.”

“You was at Gran’s burial?”

“I was behind the line of trees. I would never have dreamt of intruding on such a private affair, but I nonetheless wanted to come and offer my respects.”

“But how did you know she had passed away?” asked Molly.

“I went by to see Charlie at his flat. A neighbor told me what had happened. I didn’t know he had come to stay with you though.”

Molly nodded, “So you came to seemethen? Since you didn’t know Charlie was here?”

Oliver stood next to the fire, warming his hands there. When he turned to them, his features were clearly troubled.

“Yes, I did, Molly. You see, I worked briefly for the government.”

She and Charlie exchanged glances. “Really? What did you do there?”

“Things I’m afraid I cannot tell you. There is a law, you see. The Official Secrets Act.”

Molly and Charlie exchanged another startled look before resettling their gazes on Oliver.

“Yes, I know that I don’t seem the type, but I guess that’s sort of the point.” He gave her a troubled look. “When I was at the graveyard, I saw two men watching you, Molly. So you were quite right about that.”

Molly glanced sharply at Charlie for a moment. “Do you know who they were?”

Oliver said, “If I had to speculate, I would say government types. Security people. Have you ever heard of MI5, also known as the Security Service?”

They both shook their heads.

“Its existence is not a secret. Basically, its job is to protect England against its enemies, spies and such.”

“Were you part of this MI5 then?” asked Molly.

“I really can’t say.”

“But why would these men be following me? I’ve done nothing.”

“When I spoke to my friend at the Ministry of Food, he told me something interesting.”

“Does he know what has become of my father?” she said eagerly.

“Become of him?” said Oliver. “You said he was just working long hours.”

“Um, well, that was not entirely correct. He actually… went away and has not returned. I’m sorry I didn’t tell you before.”

“Well, I also must make a confession. At the graveyard I actually heard you tell Charlie of your father’s absence.”

“Then why did you pretend you didn’t know?” said Molly in an annoyed tone.

“I was just making sure, that is all. It is a difficult world right now and nothing can be taken for granted. When I saw the men andoverheard you tell Charlie that your father had vanished, that is when I began making inquiries.”

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