Chapter 12

Willie told him to work from home and call in for editorial meetings. In private, she texted Kris to ask whether she could help. Kris thanked her, but did not know how she could. Some of the interview requests eased up, at least.

zz

Two and a half weeks. Three.

More time. Marching on.

* * * *

Justin, one evening into the third week, nudged pizza away after a single bite of jalape?o and pineapple. Kris promptly perked up. “Want something else? Different toppings? Not pizza?”

“I don’t know. I’m not hungry.”

“But you’re always hungry,” Kris said before he could stop himself. The pizza-slice scolded him with its silence.

“I’m not,” Justin muttered. “Not lately.” He did look thinner: cheekbones, collarbone, pointed chin. He’d wrapped the rainbow knit blanket around himself. “I don’t need anything else.”

“You need to eat,” Kris attempted. Being understanding. Being peaceful. Being soothing, the way Justin needed. No stress.