Page 97

“I wouldn’t have gone that far.”

“Not even knowing that he had no hope?”

“You shouldn’t have done it either.”

“If you came to tell me I fucked up, save your breath. I already know that.”

“I’m here to support you.”

“Oh yeah? I wouldn’t have guessed.”

I drink some of my tea while Paul swallows more pasta.

“You knew, didn’t you?”

“What are you talking about?”

“You knew I would get involved.”

Paul takes a sip of his drink. “I knew you would care about this case and that you would do your best. Did I know you’d crawl into his bed?”

“Paul!”

He laughs.

“More and more arsehole.”

“And you get screwed more and more.”

“Go to hell.”

“Not before I make sure you don’t have any plans for next Thursday.”

“Why should I have plans?”

“Because it’s your birthday. Don’t think I’ve forgotten.”

Shit.

“As you well know, I prefer not to…”

“Blah, blah, blah…” Paul grins at me like he’s five.

“What’s on your mind?” I give in immediately. I know he’s got something on his mind, otherwise, we wouldn’t be here talking about it.

“Do you trust your friend Paul?”

“Absolutely not.”

“Very good. That is exactly what I wanted to hear.”

“Don’t exaggerate like you usually do. You know I’m not comfortable with…”

“With people? With joy? Happiness?”

“Go fuck yourself.”

“I love you too. That’s why I always think of you. I know you don’t like celebrating, but I do, especially when it’s you.”