`` what did you fi- '' but her words stopped short as her steps slowed , and a crowd gathered around them , dogs tugging at their master 's leads , eager to catch the scent in mike 's hands . when none came , he asked , and her bruises ? she could n't come up with an alternative that would keep her boys safe though . the man blinked , obviously not expecting the question . `` i 'm just spiffy , '' i said , still trying to calm myself down and wondering if i should introduce myself . 