FILE.16

Rosie was practically jumping up and down her seat as she waited for Cedric to get inside the car. He did, phone in hand as usual, and when he saw the unrestrained enthusiasm on her face, stared at her.

"What?" she asked when he didn't quit staring. "I'm excited. It's been so long since I went on a trip."

"This is not a vacation."

She waved her hand dismissively. "I know you're going there to work but I'm not. Can I go sight-seeing?"

He reached over to buckle her seatbelt for her and did the same for himself. "No."

"What am I going to do there then?"

"Stay in the car like a good girl?"

"You can't be serious."