Page 167

Of course, I’ve been in contact with Mary.

Calls. Texts. Video conferencing.

But it’s not the same.

Right then, my phone buzzes.

Firecracker/Mary

Good morning.

Me

Morning, Baby. You at work yet?

Firecracker/Mary

Yeah, I just got in. Forgot breakfast though.

Me

I’m sorry I wasn’t there to bring it.

Firecracker/Mary

Don’t be ridiculous. I can feed myself.

Me

But I want to be the one who feeds you.

Fuck.

Now I have a semi-boner, and my thoughts have taken a decidedly southern turn.

Firecracker/Mary

Yeah? Well maybe next time I see you, we can eat together.

Holy innuendo, Batman!

I grin.

Me

Damn straight we will. Gotta go, but I’ll see you later. Guaranteed.

I put away my phone, then I settle deeper into my seat.

Eyes on the target.

Phone in my pocket.

Because even if I can't be with her right now—I'm still thinking about her.

Still thinking about her texts.

We’re so close to nailing this prick Jonas—and once we do, I can get back to her.