“It’s not my fault you’re right.” Cypress chuckled.
The car that was blocking the exit moved, and Cypress waved as they were finally able to pull out.
“You’re right, too,” Tom said, leaning his head against the window.
“About?”
“Book, cover. It’s like what Edie said, too. About her being a sweet old lady and a crook? Okay, yeah, it’s kind of cliche, but people can always surprise you.”
“It’s not always good,” Cypress pointed out.
“Sometimes it is, though,” Tom insisted. He was able to laugh again, saying, “Like finding out the hot flower guy is actually a hot florist guy.
“Or that the shy little undertaker really likes to get spanked,” Cypress added cheerfully.
“Mm, that, too.” Tom blushed. “Heh, you know, it kinda makes me not want to trust anyone again. I mean, how would you ever know what a person is truly capable of?”
“I guess you really don’t. Hmm. The mailman could be a cannibal.”
“Pizza delivery guy might be a vampire.”
“Nah, pizzas have garlic on them,” Cypress countered. “Probably a werewolf.”
Tom chuckled and let out a long sigh. “It sucks.”
“Vampires usually do.”
Tom rolled his eyes, though he did appreciate Cypress lightening the mood. “I can’t believe I’m not freaking the fuck out. Shouldn’t I be freaking out?”
“Well,” Cypress began thoughtfully, “maybe you’re a book that doesn’t match up with your cover either. I do seem to remember a certain somebody telling Fox how they were stalling for time by keeping Aaron talking. Pretty solid thinking for a man with a gun pointed at him.”
“Ha, you think so?” Tom felt a flutter of pride.
“I know so.” Cypress smiled. “It’s like I keep telling you, Tom. You are a fierce fuckin’ tiger when you want to be. Yeah, some people out there are gonna be real ugly on the inside, but not you. You’re more beautiful and braver than you even know.”
Tom ducked his head. “But also, crazy.”
“So, what?” Cypress shrugged. “Everybody is a little crazy.”
“I feel like it’s all gonna hit me at once, and I’m going to fall apart,” Tom said wistfully.
“And if you do, I’ll be right here to pick you up again.” Cypress squeezed Tom’s knee.
“Thank you,” Tom said with an appreciative smile. “I’m really glad—” His phone began to ring. “Ah, fuck.”
“Who is it?”
“It’s Mr. Crosby. Oh, God. The shooting. He doesn’t know.”
“I’m sure someone told him.” Cypress frowned as the phone kept ringing. “Are you gonna pick up?”
“Yeah, I just have no idea what to say.”
“Hello is a good start.”
Tom made a face, finally answering the call. “Hey there, Mr. Crosby.”
“Hi, Tom!” Mr. Crosby said warmly. “I wanted to thank you for the marvelous job you did for my sister.”
