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“On the record, Jerry accepted a position at Braden Investment Group”

“Off the record?” Sandra givesshe’s my secretary

“Off the record is nothing you need to worry about”

“You’ve toldme in on some of this stuff I can keep an eye on the job boards and keep you posted on the scuttlebutt”

“What are you talking about?”

“She’s talking about social ossip The stuff you think is so uni on his back on the sofa, sorting through résuuy”

Sandra’s still waiting, and I glance up at her “Off the record, Jerry tried to extortproe my mind, he threatened me then quit”

“Oh asps

Marley only uy”

“Yeah” I study the stack of papers in front ofthe shattered look in Rocky’s eyes

I want a drink Or a fucking cigarette

Slipping my hand into the pocket of my blazer, I pop another white square out of the blister packet and put it in my mouth

Sandra’s eyebrow cocks “In all the years we’ve worked together I have never seen you chew gum”

“Few things are less professional It’s that nicotine shit”

Her eyebrows shoot up “Really… Is it working?”