Rick is standing at the whiteboard writing a list. He started without me? He must be SO talented that he can do this all by himself. Like I’m not needed. He should prepare himself for some major disappointment. I let the door close oh-not-so-quietly. Rick turns around and still manages to smile. “You’re back. Thank God. I was afraid that I had upset you so much that you wouldn’t come back and I would have to do this all by myself.” Damn with the assumptions. “I’m still aggravated,” I say, “but we need to get started. What are you working on?” Rick’s smile broadens, “I was just making a list of all of the vampire vulnerabilities and ways to kill.” I lay my book near the sink, “Sounds pleasant.” I begin to read the list as he watches me intently. I’m trying not to be distracted by his gaze, but it is rather unnerving. Blood to survive, impaling the heart, decapitation, sun exposure, sleep during the day/up all night, fire. I cock my head to the side as I continue to review the list, “Aren’t there some things missing?”
