Caroline raised an eyebrow. “How did you know about Virginia Tech?”

“I keep tabs on you,” Thomas said, smiling. “I’m your father, Caroline. Of course I follow your accomplishments. You’re a math prodigy. You have a brilliant future in engineering or computer science.”

“I applied for the aerospace program,” Caroline said.

“Aerospace,” Thomas repeated, his eyes shining with a strange, calculating light. “That’s fantastic. The tuition there is steep, especially with out-of-state options later. I want to pay for all of it. Every dime.”

I looked at my son, searching for the boy I had raised, but I only saw a stranger with a salesman’s grin.

“We didn’t ask for your money, Thomas,” I said.

“But I want to give it, Mom,” Thomas said, his voice rising slightly. “I want to set up a trust fund for Caroline. In fact, my lawyer has already drawn up the preliminary papers. We just need to sign a few agreements regarding her guardianship and future representation.”

Caroline leaned back in her chair, her analytical mind clearly dissecting his words.

“What kind of agreements?” she asked.