Chapter 18: Chapter 18

“Hey, guys. “ RJ said. “Come sit in these empty chairs for a little bit before dinner.”

Pad smiled, stood up, gave Ann his chair and moved two away from RJ. He ignored RJ’s stare as well as Chaz and Ann’s protestations.

* * * *

RJ noticed that Pad talked very little at dinner. After saying goodbyes for the evening, Chaz and Ann left RJ and Pad in the hotel lobby. RJ followed Pad, who didn’t say a word as they took the elevator and entered their suite.

“You barely said anything at dinner, Pad. Are you mad at me?”

Pad approached the refrigerator, grabbed a bottle of water.

“We can still stay in contact. We just have to be careful. I thought you understood. I know you’re upset but that’s the way it is.”