Chapter 159

Van and Gene took the hint and went upstairs, too—the normal way. After saying “Good night,” Jon and Brody did as well.

* * * *

“And then there were two, until you head to bed,” Russ said.

“Yep. But I’m not tired so…” Daw shrugged, dropping down on the sofa.

Russ glanced at him, got up, and began pacing. “Can I say something?”

“I can’t stop you.”

“Well you could, but…” Russ shook his head and continued. “You probably don’t want to hear this but I like you a hell of a lot, in case you haven’t figured it out. I know you don’t feel the same. To you I’m a friend and a bit of a pest that you put up with because you’re a nice guy. Anyway, whatever you decide, to stay or go, I’m not letting you leave me behind. There, I said it, so…” He stuttered to a stop.

“Did I say I wanted to?”

“Well…no.”