Page 7 of When the Smoke Clears

“Who’s Sally?” I ask.

“That nurse with the nose ring.”

I look at the nurse without the nose ring.

She takes his fork when he hands it to her. “Thatcher, your wife has your wallet. It’s safe with her.”

“Dad, enjoy your bath.” I rest my hand on his shoulder and kiss the top of his balding head. A sheen of oil has matted what little hair remains. He definitely needs a bath.

When I make eye contact with the nurse, I realize enjoy might have sounded inappropriate. “What I meant was behave. Okay?”

Dad stares at the window. “That bird was here yesterday.”

There’s no bird.

“Love you,” I say.

He returns a slow nod, staring blankly at the birdless window.

As soon as I step into the hallway, I call Fitz. He doesn’t answer, so I call Jamie.

“Hey! How’s your dad?”

“Where’s Fitz?”

“Uh, maybe on his way home. Did you try calling him?”

“He texted me. What’s up with my new renter?”

“What do you mean?” she asks.

“Has she done something to my place?”

“I don’t think so. Did Fitz say something?”

“It’s what he didn’t say.”

Jamie laughs. “I don’t know what’s going on between you two. There’s nothing to worry about. Your new renter is lovely.”

“You’ve met her?” I press the elevator button half a dozen times.

“Uh, yeah. How’s your dad?”

“He’s full of shit. What’s up with the new renter? You’re all terrible liars. What aren’t you telling me?” I step into the elevator.

“Did you hear a curling iron started the fire in Everleigh’s house?”

“I did not. Quit changing the subject.”

“She lost her canary. Did you or your guys notice the cage when you went into the house?”

“Is that what this is about? Fitz is pissed because I suggested Everleigh stay with you, so he’s trolling me about my new roommate when there’s really no issue? Has Everleigh not moved out of your house?”

“Oh, yeah. She moved out.”

I step off the elevator and head to the exit. “How pissed off was he?”

“A lot at first, but he’s fine now.”