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“Hey, Coop How are you holding up?”

I shrugged “Yeah, I’ve been better What’s up?”

“I found out soht cheer you up The coroner has ruled Melinda’s death natural causes She had a stroke There was nothing you could’ve done to prevent it”

I leaned against the brick wall, overwhelmed with relief

Thank fucking god

“Coop? You there?”

Shit “Yeah, I’m here,” I replied “Sorry, I’mspeechless How did you find out? I mean, are you sure?”

“I’m a lawyer I know people” He chuckled

“How’s Nic?” I asked tentatively

“She’s okay Still a little shocked, but you know her She’ll be fine”

“Thanks for callingup the call and dialed Beth

“Coop?” she said breathlessly

“Yeah, why are younever mind” I chuckled Some questions were better left unanswered “Good news—Melinda’s death was caused by a stroke” Shit, that sounded horrible “The stroke was not good newsyou knohat I mean”

“I’lad you’re in the clear, Coop” She paused

“What is it?”