He made no move for the gun in his backpack, but hoped Lucy would go for it if the situation warranted. He said, “Hey, what’s with the gun? We’re camping near here, just like you. Wanted to introduce ourselves. To avoid a situation like this.” The woman immediately lowered the weapon. “You startled me.” She stuffed the gun back in her pocket. It was a small .22, easily concealable. Sean didn’t relax but he offered a smile. “Sorry, we didn’t mean to.” The woman was petite, her blond hair pulled back. The man also had light hair, and was both taller and wider than Sean. They were in their early- to mid-thirties and wore jeans and flannel jackets; both looked surprised—and suspicious—to find Lucy and Sean in their campsite. “I’m Sean Rogan; this is my girlfriend, Lucy Kincaid. We’re camping about two hundred yards southwest of here, on the south side of the lake.” The strangers glanced at each other. “Thanks,” the woman mumbled. “We won’t bother you.”
