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"Thanks a lot," I say, and laugh

"I have a stack of reports I need to get through this weekend If I can get through theht, then Saturday and Sunday are yours"

"In that case, I have no guilt whatsoever Go forth and review, buy, trade, or barter Whatever it is you do to keep the Daht on that," he says evenly "And I’ll see you tomorrow You can tell me all about your first day then"

"Okay"

"Until then," he whispers, "think ofyou"

"I always do," I say, before we end the call

I’ as I toss my phone down beside me on the bed, and when I turn and see Ja of chips and a bowl of salsa, I can’t help but s more? I’m stuffed"

"Like anyone could be too full for chips" She crawls back onto the bed and nods at the phone "Did he want you to coot ho I ht is still nice

"Seriously?" Ja away "What are you doing?"

"Checking for fever Are you ill? I thought that all Daer and you’d coht," I say And then, because I just can’t resist, I add, "And for the record, you’re right He crooks his finger, and I hter, and after another slug of ainst the pillows and watch as Alan Rick nalued to the screen Since this is Jamie’s favorite classic action flick, I’ve seen it at least a dozen times, but I still jump when Rickain

It’s Ollie

"Hey," I say "What’s up?"

"Are you with Stark?"

It’s an innocent enough question, I suppose, but I stiffen anyway "No Why?"

He sighs, and I realize he heard the terseness in my voice "I just didn’t want to interrupt Swear to God"

"Sorry No, I’etting a drink?"

"Now?" The truth is, there was a time when I wouldn’t have hesitated So what that I’ht in? Ollie could totally coo out and get plastered

But things have shifted sowith him, I’m wary And that saddens me Lately, every ti down around et chipped away if I can help it

Still, this is Ollie talking, and I’?" I ask "Or is there so you want to talk about?"