Justin realized an instant too late that his mouth had fallen open. He hastily clamped it shut.

"Give or take a few years," Zechariah added.

"Are you...?" Justin said.

A slow smile crept across Zechariah's face. The twinkle in his eye reminded Justin of the look his grandfather used to get when he was telling a tall tale.

"Oh. I get it," said Justin. "Very funny. Mess with the new guy. I see."

"What! You don't believe me?" Zechariah said, a look of feigned ...