The more they talked the more guilty she’d become. She’d promised Gary and she couldn’t break that promise without doing damage to their relationship. He’d stopped being mouthy and even helped her a few times when she needed a strong back. Nick shifted his back. “Bernie said Gary’s doing well—working hard and arriving on time. I guess I can stop worrying about that.” “I talked with Mandy. She said the same thing. He’s a little quiet, she said, but that’s better than being mouthy.” Nick gave a giant nod in agreement. “How’s he with you?” The question made her tense. “Pretty good. He’s been helpful at times. Messy at others, but that’s a teenager. It goes with the territory.” He released a sigh. “I’m feeling guilty about Gary.” Rona shifted to face him. “Why?” He shrugged. “I’m working long hours and not seeing him, and he’s done a good job.
