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“I have to go”

“Don’t” He stood, co across unsure, which seemed out of character for him But hoould I know? We didn’t know each other! “I’ed, looking very young all of a sudden

And I realized he was younger than I’d first thought—he had said he was a rookie cop I put hie or Gary’s, o years older than me

“Stay Talk” He gestured to the table and then gavesmile “Tell me your name”

“I can’t” I needed souy, and I needed to see Gary so I could be reood

But Michael’s crestfallen expression tugged at my heart

“Look, I’ll be back here on Wednesday night and then on Saturday again If you’re sincere, then show up We’ll go from there”

His relief was visible

“I like that too” I smiled at him, and his eyes zeroed in on the diift from my dad

“Like what?”

“No bullshit You tellit And I like you’re relieved I take it you’ll be here?”

“Dahlin’, you seous little di someone for you Maybe even then,” he teased

I grinned harder, and his expression turned tender My God “Then I’ll see you soon”

“At least tell me your name,” he called as I strolled away

I turned, walking backward, “I tell you what You show, I’ll tell you my name”