Page 44 of Grift

The project strained my father, the company, our finances, my siblings and frankly myself to nearly our breaking point.

It’s Carney life at its worst, accelerated, intensified and inescapable.

But I don’t want to talk about my family anymore. For just the night, I want to enjoy my time with Jessica.

“How do you feel about cannolis?” I ask, already steering her toward the best bakery in the North End.

It’s a quick stop on our way back to the apartment. I’m a simple guy: plain cannoli from the best place in town. But she convinces me to try to the sacrilege of a mint chocolate one. I’m man enough to admit it’s good.

The drive back to the apartment is wonderful. There’s an easy quiet that’s settled between us. Going out tonight was a good thing. I open her door and help her down. She can get out of my SUV without a problem, but I enjoy wrapping my hands around her waist and swinging her to the ground.

I fold her against me and pull out my keys once we reach the door. I’m unlocking the door, when a package falls down to the ground.

It’s wedged into the mail slot, but not all the way through.

It’s addressed to Jessica, on a large card with contact information for hacking and investigation services. All the lightness and joy that I feel drains away.

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