HOTLINE BLING

''Bob is dead.''

There I said it.

''Excuse me?"' he says, flabbergasted. ''Did you say he's dead?''

''He is.'' I confirm.

His back straightens on the chair and his eyes become rigid. ''And you'd know this because?''

''Because whoever has been fucking with me last year decided it be best to bring the shenanigans into the new year.'' He looks confused and I sigh. ''The head of a skunk and the fake notes weren't enough. I got a note saying that ''the one whom you seek is dead''. The message couldn't be any more clear.''

''Is that why you were…?''

''Crying last month? Yes.''

''Shit.'' He runs his hand through his hair. ''Now, I feel like a dick for getting into it with you. I'm sorry.''

''All is forgiven.''

''Are you okay?'' His eyes are laced with concern. ''Like really okay?''

''I don't know.'' My back leans on a nearby desk. ''Things aren't adding up.''

He nods. ''When did you get note?''