“Not what you’ve already painted. Your people see the outside. The commercial. They’re focused on what is already done. Already out there. You’re worried about your next work of art.”
Kari remained silent.
“And you’re right to be worried, Kari. Because that’s the most important issue of all. What happens when you come back from the hurricane, and you’re working on your new painting?”
A long silence, then, “I’m going to Miami.”
“How can I help?”
“Be my friend.”
“Kari.” It was his turn to pause for a soft breath. “I want that more than almost anything.”
“I don’t even know what that word means.Friend.”
“You know,” Ian replied. “You just don’t know what it means with me.” When Kari remained silent, he went on, “Thank you for trusting me, Kari. So much.”
