Chapter 31

“Thanks again for flying all the way here,” I say.

“I’d do it all over again.”

I nod. “Take care of yourself, Russ.”

He hands me the book. “Will you sign this for me?”

“Of course.” I flip to the dedication page and write: Friends for life. Best wishes, Chris.

I hand him back the book. Before he reads my inscription, he says, “Merry Christmas. Stay handsome.”

I give him one last hug before I leave him alone in the aisle and ride the escalator down to the main floor. I meet Antonio at the front of the store. He browses the new hardcover releases. “Everything all right?” he asks, putting back James Patterson’s new Alex Cross novel.

“Just catching up with an old friend.” 12

Christmas Eve

Philip and I are in bed until noon, listening to Frank Sinatra’s “I’ll Be Home for Christmas.”

We lie naked, our limbs entwined like twisty bread. “You’re wearing me out, babe,” Philip whispers.

I hug him. “I missed you.”