Excuse me are you Dr. Hammond? One of the girls asked looking at Cecilia.

Sometimes she replied smiling. It depends on whos asking.

Ummm wellwere students over at UCLA and we have to read this book. The girl held up a book and turned it to face Cecilia.

Can I see that? Cecilia held out her hand for the book. Turning it over in her hands she shook her head. They werent supposed to release this until next yearoh well too late to complain now.

So you ARE Dr. Hammond? The girl asked with awe in her voice.

Yep I must be this picture looks just like me. Cecilia had opened the book to the authors page and showed it to the girls.

I told you! One said to the other. Could you sign these for us? I mean its not every day we get to meet someone like you. The girl handed her book as well as a pen to Cecilia and grinned from ear to ear.

Someone like me, huh? Im not famous, Cecilia said as she signed her name to the book. Impressed, Dana mouthed the words shes a doctor to everyone at the table as Cecilias attention was diverted to the books.

Oh, you are to us! Weve read all of your books and there are quotes in all of our textbooks from you! There isnt an anthropology major that doesnt know your name!

Well thank you thats nice to know. Cecilia handed the books back to the girls and turned her attention to her bemused audience. Marina in particular. Speaking of books, I better get back to work. It was really nice meeting all of you.

NO! Dont go you didnt finish telling us about the headmans daughter! Dana blurted out.

Im sorry, but I really Cecilia watched as Marina stood and removed her chair from the table. It was Tina who cut off her words.

We understand but, maybe you could go out with us tonight!

Yeah were all going to ***** to celebrate, Bette said smiling.

Oh really? To celebrate what and what exactly is *****? Cecilia questioned laughing, but still watching Marina. The dark woman was making an obvious effort to appear unaffected by Cecilias sudden urge to depart.