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“Probably. I didn’t ask for specifics,” I lie.
“That’s a gem. How old is he?”
“He sounds young but has the experience of an old man.”
“That’s ridiculous.”
I shrug, even though I know he can’t see me. “He’s in his forties, maybe? It’s on his résumé, but I didn’t check.”
“So, is he too old to be your rebound guy?”
“I’m a married woman.”
“Pipe, Archer was my best friend, and as painful as it is to say this, it’s time to let him go.”
I swallow the knot of tears rooted in my throat. “He’s alive.”
“I want him to be too—”
“It’s not a want. It’s a fact. When he waltzes back into our lives, I’ll be the only one saying I told you so.”
“And I’ll be happy to see you gloating. In the meantime—”
“Please, don’t send me to therapy too.”
He exhales loudly, cussing under his breath. “Have you been reading his letters?”
“I watch all the videos he made of our happy moments. The letters are sporadic. The ones that are left are supposed to be opened depending on how many years have passed since he died. Plus, the birthday and holiday letters.”
“He was pretty methodical. So here’s a good question: what is he going to do when he’s back and he has to redo the box.”
Panic digs inside my chest. He can’t go back. “You think he’ll want to continue working for Uncle Mason?”
“Can you see him not doing it?”
“After almost dying, of course I can. He’ll retire, and we’ll…” I don’t know how to finish because saving people makes Archer happy.
“Well, that’s going to be some fight. Let me know when it happens. I want a front-row seat.”
“He wouldn’t dare go back. Not after I lost him for two years.”
“Hey, don’t get upset at me. Let’s focus on the future of your practice. I’m glad you found someone who’ll help you accomplish your vision and that you also rented the apartment next door.”
“Thank you?” I should be happy and celebrating. I hate to accept it, but Gabe and Mom are right. Even though I’m still living, I sabotage myself because I feel it’s unfair to continue living while Archer isn’t here.
“Are you still working for the publishing company?”
“Yep. I hired a new editor, and we’ve been acquiring more books.”
“Let’s plan a vacation soon, okay?”
I almost laugh but instead ask, “You’re going to ask for time off?”
“Pria Decker is making me do it.”
Yeah, I can see his mom being on his case and his dad helping her campaign. Uncle Jacob is pretty chill, and he believes in taking breaks and enjoying life. Gabe doesn’t do it as much. He’s the complete opposite of his twin.
“I should be thankful that my mom isn’t like yours.”
