Chapter 40

“I know,” Jeff said with a nod, and then laughed when Gerry lifted an eyebrow. “Oh, come on. My older sister was a Starlight freak. With a capital F, R, E, A and K.” He circled his finger by his ear but stopped short when Gerry winced. “What? I’m just saying, you haven’t changed that much.”

Gerry waved him off. “Nothing. I’ve just heard that name too much lately.”

“Oh.” Jeff looked back toward the properties at the end of the block. “Well, then. Sorry, I guess? You’ll come though, right? In case you didn’t know, you’re kind of the neighborhood celebrity. It would be pretty darn cool if you’d show up. Win me some kudos from the wife and all, right? These days, any little bit helps.”

“Aw, and here I thought you were hoping to chum up to me.” Gerry offered him a smile. “But I don’t know…”

“Oh, come on,” Jeff teased. “Please? It’ll be fun.” He held up the pack of candy and shook it. “I’ll even share my smokes.”

Gerry laughed. “What a gentleman!”