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I step back because the dogs are attempting to merge with Don’s ankles and because leaving him on the porch gives the neighbors a show none of us need.

“Do I have time for a drink, or are you ready to go?”

“Don, please.”

He moves past me. “A drink, then.”

I look to the closed laptop on the table.

Don follows my gaze.

“What’s up?”

I look back at him.

“Nothing,” I say. “Just tired.”

“Excellent. Bingo is sedate.”

“My bills.”

“Will be paid tomorrow.”

I should stay firm. The decision I was circling is still there, open and waiting. Tonight could be the night it all stops.

“Fine,” I say. “I’ll go.”

Relief moves through me so fast I almost mistake it for decision.

Don beams. “Wonderful. We’ll take your car.”

I grab my wallet off the counter, then pause.

Don is waiting at the door. “Paul?”

“I’m coming.”

I step out into the warm evening. Behind me, the house continues holding everything I’m not brave enough to say.

Chapter twelve

Not Tonight

Clint

The room opens the way it always does.

BigDog469: REDDYYYYY

MouthyMike: pizza man

MNTopDad: there he is

FootGuyBob: look pumped. feet sore?

I settle into the chair. “Can’t I get some foreplay, guys?”

I lean back, uniform sweats low on my hips, no shirt. Hair still damp from the shower. The pose is easy now, which should probably bother me more than it does.