(Part 4)

"Sandra... You've taken the boy as far as you can. Still, I think you should be with him, at the next stage: 'Contact'."

This from another scientist, Lowell Thompson. Also present was a Major Henry 'Hap' Jimenez from the Air Force.

These all held top-level clearances with all the government departments involved, scientific and military. CIA too.

"Does the boy suspect... What he is here for?" asked Major Jimenez, while doodling a figure on a blank notepad.

Prof. Henderson: "I'm not sure... He is as bright in many ways as a college PhD. graduate. Or some I've known..."

Prof. Thompson: "Sandra, if he can do it, we might unlock some hidden doors... Perhaps, the ultimate secret?"

Sandra looked a bit dubious, as she responded: "And which 'Ultimate Secret' is that... I bet there's a baker's dozen?"

The Major interjected, here: "Why... The secret to interstellar, inter-dimensional travel, of course. All else is irrelevant."

Sandra looked the Major in his beady, grayish eyes saying: "I'd think, 'How do we humans all Live in Peace?' is more important."

"That will come... Don't you recall the Air Force slogan: 'Peace is our Profession'? I believe that still counts," said the Major.

#-#-#-#-#-#

Meanwhile, Jimmy was in a small 'guest room'... Under close supervision by an Air Force Sgt. name of Sheila Gibson. A pretty redhead.

"My aunt is pretty... And Miss Sandra too... But you are even prettier, Sheila. I've been home-schooled, so I don't meet many girls or women..."

The lovely but tough-as-nails Seargeant smiled at the compliment. It was nice to have her looks appreciated even by this boy. A kind, gentle boy.

"And you're a very handsome young man, Jimmy... Your father as nice as you?" she replied, just a bit curious about Jimmy's background and family.

"My father was put in prison, after he killed my mother... He's dead now. My aunt Jessica is a wonderful lady. She loves animals as much as I do."

Sgt. Gibson smiled at Jimmy: "Yes... Being kind to all creatures is important. No matter where they come from..." She then looked off into space.

(To be continued...)