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“Josh set the timer at the door to 30 minutes,” my boss ordered. “That way the people outside will have a time frame for us opening once more. And for God’s sake, someone make that boy a panini.”

Leaving me his phone, Nick went to the front with Josh to follow his grandfather’s instructions.

“Thank you, Mr. Di Rossi. I’m sorry for the inconvenience.”

“It’s nothing…” Offering me a smile, he leaned back on the chair, crossing both arms over his chest. “Listen, I’m aware you’ve been pulling double shifts without a day off for two weeks now, and I know you are tired, but I need you to do one more week for me. Can you do it?”

Shit. At the rate my body was weakening with my illness, I wasn’t sure I could. “Did something happen?” I asked.

“Not much. My nephew can’t go to work next week either.”

Seriously?

“Of course, Sir. Whatever you need, I’ll help as much as I am able.”

His eyes illuminated with a knowing smile. “I knew I could count on you. I’ll be there next week to see you and talk. Take care of yourself.”

“Are you done?” Nick asked the second I hung up, and I nodded, handing him back his cell. “Yes, why?”

A playful gleam entered his expression. He shrugged. “I think you should come out here. You’ll feel better, I guarantee it.”