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Bentley84: Yes.

HotnReddy: Sorry. Know what that’s like.

My hand stills.

Bentley84: You’re annoyingly perceptive for someone moisturizing for tips.

Clint reads it and laughs, full and sudden.

The sound comes through my speakers before I can turn it down.

Baxter lifts his head again. This time, I don’t apologize.

HotnReddy: Perceptive and soft heels. I’m a catch.

Bentley84: The foot guy thinks so.

Another on-screen laugh. Another tiny jolt to my system.

HotnReddy: Seriously, though. Hope the divorce stuff works out.

I stare at that for a long moment.

As if he isn’t part of what must be worked out.

I’m accepting sympathy from the man Renny left behind for me to find.

Bentley84: Thanks.

Clint shifts in the chair. Someone tips. The public chat surges again, impatient with whatever private thing has stolen him for too long.

BigDog469: enough typing

MouthyMike: come back to us

FootGuyBob: other foot?

Clint reads the public chat and shakes his head.

HotnReddy: My fans are revolting.

Bentley84: In both senses?

HotnReddy: See, that’s why I like you.

He likes Bentley84. A man who does not exist outside of this room.

HotnReddy: I should probably give the people what they came for.

I look at the public requests building up. The chat has become restless. The room wants him back, and I want to keep him here.

That is new enough to frighten me. Or perhaps it is only the first time I have admitted it plainly.

Bentley84: Of course.

I hesitate, then type again.

Bentley84: Don’t let them be pushy.