“EJ,” she wailed, “two officers went home with the stomach flu and I don’t know what to do. I think Joel Rooney’s the only one at the mall now. They called me before they left, but I’m in Boston for the weekend—my sister’s wedding—and I can’t—” “Don’t worry about it,” I said with an inward sigh. “I’ll go in.” Coco sighed her relief. “Thanks, EJ, you’re a lifesaver. Did I tell you I designed the bridesmaids’ gowns for the wedding? They’re lavender silk with an asymmetric neckline and—” • • • After kissing Jay good-bye and putting on my uniform, I trudged into the mall with less than my usual lukewarm enthusiasm for my job. I had trouble pushing thoughts of Jay out of my head as I walked into the office. Joel, looking rumpled and harassed, gave me a sympathetic look. “I’m sorry, EJ.” “You don’t have anything to be sorry for,”
