Chapter 158

“Are you kidding!” shrieked Kate. “I’m going to Paris on Spring Break! This is way too cool! I can’t believe it. I have to go shopping for some new clothes. We should get one of those CD’s that teaches you how to speak French in three days. I’m going to call Stephanie!”

“Just a minute, Kate,” interrupted her father. “Will and I can’t go since we have to work. It’s the busy time of year for those of us in accounting. I expect all of you to obey Paula and Diane without question or dissent. That goes for you, too, Steve. You’re a very mature young man, but Paula and Diane are the adults on this trip. I want all of you to have a great time, but be safe. Steve, I’ll rely on you to keep them all safe. You seem to have assumed that duty already. No one wanders off alone and always be sure that Paula and Diane know where you are. That’s my speech on this trip.”

Later, as Gwen was standing on the porch with Steve, she mentioned what she knew had to be on his mind. “I made sure th