wouldn't worry too much about it. That's just how people are back home. People from rural towns are always kind of superstitious... [ a shake of the head. ] I think it was probably just coincidence, rather than a real curse.

That's right. She's a few years younger than me. [ he pauses at that, his demeanor growing a bit more serious. ] I have to take care of her. I'm the only one who can.