The feeling of having to watch her back, however, remained. “There you are!” Mother waved a chit above his head. “Biggin Hill is waiting for you. You’ll arrive at the birthday party in style. I mean, who else will be flying to the party in a brand-new Spitfire?” “You’re a magician.” Sharon took the piece of paper. “Don’t forget this.” Mother handed her the package wrapped in brown paper. “The soccer ball! Thank you! I’m sure Sean will love it.” Sharon tucked the package under her arm. “I had an unusual conversation with a member of the Home Guard this morning. A Major Pike, retired. Claims he had a run in with a foul mouthed Canadian girl last night. He seemed to think there weren’t any women in the ATA. That it might have been a spy. I put him straight that, yes, we do have some very fine women pilots.” Mother hesitated. “Major Pike, was it? Very good name for him. Poked me in the chest with his bayonet.” Sharon pointed to the spot between her breasts.
