Chapitre 39: Chapter 39

He studied my face, then came to me and hugged me. “I’m sorry I teased you, Sweets. I’ve gotSpike to get me through the rough patches, but you’re alone.”

I shrugged. “It’s not a big deal.”

“It’ll be okay.” He ran his palm up and down my back. “You’ll find someone someday.”

“Sure, Paul.” I wouldn’t, but I closed my eyes and let him comfort me.

* * * *

The beginning of the end started on an ordinary day, with an ordinary phone call, four days after the ball.

“Mark Vincent has spoken very highly of your services, of your discretion, and I’m willing to pay to have the best.”

“Where are you? Spike is on call—”

Spike looked up from the comic book he was reading.

“—and I can have him there—”

“Oh, no, no! Vincent recommended Pretty Boy. He recommended him very highly. I’ll pay double his fee. Triple.”

“Don’t get your panties in a bunch.” I shook my head, and Spike went back to Alien vs. Predator.