章 104: Chapter 104

“What about the man I met yesterday? Mr. Wallace? I think you trust him.”

“I do. He’s The Boss, and he runs things where I work. Anyone else, go on the assumption they’re from the Gautier bi—witch, and if you can’t find me or Uncle Quinn, head for the hills.”

“Okay, Dad.” Joe released my hand and turned to Novotny. “Uncle Quinn told me about you. You’re a good man.”

“Uh…” Novotny cleared his throat and blushed, not just a bit of color, but a deep red that ran up his cheeks to his hairline. “Thank you. I try to be.”

“Will you teach me how to cook?”

“If that’s what you’d like, I’d be happy to.”

“Cool.” Joe smiled up at him.

Novotny studied his sweatshirt. “You’re a Caps fan?”

“I am. Ma said I should take an interest in regular stuff. Most of that’s boring, but I like hockey.”

“So do I,” Novotny said. “Maybe your…your dad will let me take you to a game.”

I could see he nearly choked on the words, but before I could say something snarky, Portia entered the foyer.