Chapter 38

Since I went, we've become closer. We often gather for coffee or yoga. She knows my concerns, therefore I enjoy her company.

Loefel encourages me after yoga, "Tell Paul what's up." After an appointment with Client 5, I came to yoga shaking and convulsing after a mind-numbing climax. "Keep it up! You're nuts."

"Yes," I say. "But it's been so long, I don't know how to escape."

Loefel adds, "The longer you keep mute, the deeper the hole," and I know she's correct.

The issue isn't Paul or Henry. It's here.

I texted Paul that I needed to see him hours ago. We agreed to meet at the Central Park Boathouse.

I arrived before him and ordered a dirty martini in the Main Lounge while staring at the Lake in Central Park from the Boathouse's terrace.

Now I'm watching Paul approach. He entered from 81st Street. I hear a piano in the Lounge and wonder whether this is our final visit at the Boathouse.

Paul kisses me, but I flinch away. He steps back and concerns me.