After taking a few steps up the staircase, Josh Batton let go of Annabeth Cates to retrace his steps down to the woman.

Feeling overwhelmed, she stood still and covered her mouth, trembling visibly. “Did you come back for me?”

“Who else? Is there anyone else around here?” he asked in amusement.

The woman held her breath. “How can I help you?”

“It’s nothing out of the ordinary. I’m only hoping that you’ll keep my presence a secret. Can you do that? I’m willing to give you my autograph in exchange,” he said.

She nodded without hesitation, unable to believe she was getting his autograph. She’d been a fan of his for many years.

“All right, Josh. Please sign on my back. I love you so much,” she declared as she eagerly turned around. “Do you have a pen? I can go home and get one if you don’t.”

“I’ve got one," he replied calmly, retrieving a pen from his pocket and then signing on her back.

His autograph consisted of his full name.

He put his pen away when he was done. “All right. I’