Chapter 81

“I’ll let you know any news.” As he opened it, he turned back one last time.

“Whatever happens, we’re still friends, right?”

“Right.”

After Lee had

gone, Patrick stood for many more minutes in the silent, empty shop, trying to

remember every word of their conversation, and also uncover those that hadn’t

been spoken. What the hell did Lee mean, whatever happens?

Patrick dropped

heavily onto the nearest chair. He’d been so wrapped up in his own fears that

he’d never for a minute expected Lee to have similar ones. He’d allowed himself

to get bogged down with insecurity and self-indulgent pathos. I could lose

him!Patrick had thought the only threat was from Lee not wanting to commit

to an old bear like him. He’d never imagined Lee might see the same reluctance

and uncertainty in Patrick—and decide things between them weren’t worth the

trouble.

“You’re not

letting me into your life.”

That did it!