"That sounds nice," he answers. "And I'm sure Karen would like it, too."

She's better with people than he is anyway, kinder and much more open in her way. The secrets she keeps -- and she keeps plenty, John had noticed that a long time ago -- she does with such poise it never really seems to matter to anyone. Karen would have made an incredible agent and all he can do is be thankful that's not the sort of life that ever really found her.

"And the more people who are better conversationalists than I am, the better for everyone involved."