“I‘m going to run home to check on Merry,” she said. “If he’s not too traumatized, I’ll come back and help out.”
“You shouldn’t clog up the roads,” he said in a clipped, distracted tone. “It’s not safe. There could be downed trees or power lines, and emergency vehicles need to get through. It would be best if you went home and stayed there.”
She dropped her gaze, feeling stupid for suggesting it. Of course it wasn’t safe to be on the roads right now. “I’m sorry,” she said meekly. “I’m only trying to help.”
Felix scrubbed his hands over his face, his stubble rasping against his palms. “No, I’m sorry, Jo. I don’t mean to be rude. I appreciate the offer, but I’m just going to be waiting for other people to show up. There’s not a lot for you to do.”
He had a point there too, but he was clearly still rattled by what had happened. She didn’t want to leave him alone like this. “I can keep you company?” she offered.
Taking a step toward her, he put his hands in his pockets. “I’d rather you get home safe tonight.”
Jo moved closer still. She crossed her arms over her chest, the weight pressing down her boobs reminding her of where Felix’s knees had been. “You’re shaken up, Felix. Has it occurred to you that maybe I want you to get home safe too?”
From the way his face went slack, Jo was afraid she knew the answer. He had been so caring and patient with her when she began to panic downstairs. Did he really have no one who showed him that kind of concern? Her heart ached for him. Felix deserved someone who made him feel as safe and secure and seen as he made others feel. As he made her feel.
He leaned heavily on the edge of the desk and sighed. “How about this? You go check on Merry. Text me when you make it home safely. I’ll tell you what’s going on here and how I’m doing. Once Warren arrives, I should be able to pull myself together.”
“Always the professional,” Jo murmured.
Felix gave a sheepish shrug. “If things are really bad, or if I need something, I’ll let you know.”
“I agree to your terms,” she said, “with an addendum of my own.”
He broke into a small smile. “I’m listening.”
“Either way, whether I come back or not, you text me when you get home tonight too. No matter how late it is.”
“Deal.”
They shook on it.
Jo
I’m home. Car is fine and roads weren’t too bad. A bunch of people were out clearing debris and stuff already. Merry is fine, the dingus. Probably slept through the whole thing.
Felix
Glad to hear it. Warren just walked in. More soon.
Waiting for the fire department to arrive. We’re low priority because no injuries.
Jo
The deal was you also tell me how you’re doing.
Don’t make me drive over there.
I hear the roads are unsafe.
Felix
Sorry for the delay. Deputies arrived to take a report for insurance and they needed my statement. They might want yours as well. I gave them your name as the other witness but not your contact info.
I’m better. Warren took charge as soon as he got here, so I’m following his lead.
Jo
Good. I’m here if you need me.
Felix
Thank you.
Jo
I can also send cat pics.
Felix
I just got home. I’ll tell you the whole story when I see you, but things went smoothly. Warren assured me everything will be fixed well before the MnM launch night.
Always yes to cat pics.
I’m getting some sleep. See you next Friday, if not sooner.
Jo
