David was surprised at how tasty the meal was. He even asked Bud for the recipe, but the Marine remained tight-lipped.
“It’s a matter of national security.”
“Huh?”
“Aunt Gloria gave me the recipe once, and I promised never to share it with anyone.”
“Oh. I thought you didn’t have any family. Sorry, that was insensitive.”
“She’s not my real aunt. Gloria was a cook in one of the last group homes I was in. She’s the closest person I ever got to an adult relative. Least one that cared about me.”
David reached for and took Bud’s hand. He could have kicked himself for spoiling the happy mood they had been enjoying. “I’m sorry, Bud. Please let’s change the subject.”
“Thanks.”
“I don’t want you to get mad, worried or anything, but the reason why I was late home was because I was talking wit
