Page 265

“You’re very annoying for being right.”

“I’ve been told that.”

His laugh is small and wrecked.

I let myself have three more breaths. Only three, and then I make my arms loosen.

Clint doesn’t let go immediately. Finally, he steps back.

The suitcase stands between us again. I take the handle. The doors open behind me, spilling cold air over my back.

Clint looks at them, then at me.

“Go,” he says. “Before I kidnap you.”

I take a few steps, then stop.

Clint hasn’t moved when I turn back. He has one hand shoved in his pocket, the other rubs at his throat like he’s holding something in.

I go back before I can think better of it.

His eyes widen. “What?”

I put my arms around him again. This time, I bring my mouth close to his ear.

“I promise to stay out of your show.”

His body goes still against mine. He turns his face, breath warm against my neck. “Then I’m done with shows.”

I tighten my hold. “You don’t have to do that for me.”

“I know.” His face is steady now. Sad, yes, but certain in a way I’ve learned not to dismiss. “It did what it was supposed to do.”

I swallow. “I guess it did. Weirdly.”

His mouth curves. “Weird is how we do things.”

His eyes shine for a second, and then he nods. The airport doors open again. Cold air. Suitcase wheels. I look back at it, sniff, and try to smile.

“Have your lawyer call mine?”

Clint huffs a laugh. “Constantly.”

He touches my chest, palm flat over my heart. “Go home, Paul.”

This time, I do.

The cold air hits first. Then the noise.

Inside, the airport is brighter than it needs to be, all hard light and rolling suitcases dragging over every thought I’m trying not to have. People move around me with the focused irritation of travelers everywhere.

I stand just inside the doors. Alone.

The word arrives quietly.

I’ve traveled alone before. I don’t mind it, usually. But not like this. Not leaving someone behind. Not choosing to.

Through the glass, Clint is still at the curb, smaller now behind the glare and reflections. One hand in his pocket. Sunglasses back over his eyes even though he’s standing in shade.