“Master Chief Merrick speaking,” I said.

“Sarah, it’s Valerie Thorne from Shoreline Middle School,” the voice on the line said.

She hesitated, her gentle voice carrying a hint of unease.

“I’ve got Matty’s Career Day registration card,” Valerie said.

“Lieutenant Wyler from the Navy recruiting office is here going through the speaker forms, and he asked whether you could come by the main office this afternoon.”

“Is something wrong with the schedule?” I asked.