Chapter 40

Johnny carefully prepared the tea the way he saw Jim do it on Tuesday.

“I see you paid attention,” Jim said. “It took these knuckleheads weeks to learn to make tea properly.” Mrs. Mills had put out the cake, plates and cups.

“When you write software, you have to be detail-oriented. No one likes software filled with bugs. It’s better to get it right the first time.” Johnny poured the tea and sat down.

“So what’s the problem, hon?” Jim asked putting his hand on top of Johnny’s.

“I love him,” and with that Johnny started to sniffle.

“Does he love you back?” Danny asked immediately.

“He gave me these.” Johnny took his hand away from Jim’s and put it under his shirt bringing out the dog tags.

“He loves you,” Danny told him with an air of finality.

“But he doesn’t know about the money.” Johnny moaned as he took a sip of tea.

“Then tell him…this banana bread is wonderful. Can you ask Mrs. Mills to give me the recipe? Cisco will love it.” Greg wolfed down his piece.