Page 35 of Shhh…It’s A Killer Story

I considered the question.

"Maybe not."

"I knew it."

"I think she'd grin instead of smile."

Frank looked horrified.

"That's your note?"

"The dialogue's fine and the pacing's good and the psychological manipulation is lovely."

"But she should smile more."

I nodded.

"Exactly."

"You concern me."

"I've heard that before."

"Frequently?"

"Enough that I'm beginning to think people are overreacting."

Frank looked at Gerald. Gerald looked at Frank. Neither of them looked convinced. I leaned back in my chair and rubbed at my eyes.

"You know, I almost feel bad for Dr. Hayes."

Gerald's painted eyebrows somehow managed to look sceptical.

"Almost?"

"Well..."

I shrugged.

"She did tell Joey not to victimize herself."

Frank winced.

"Poor choice of words."

"Very I suppose if my therapist had said that to me..."

I paused.

"I might've reacted similarly."

Both gnomes stared at me.

"...Without the murder."

Another pause.

"Probably."