Page 47 of Static/Cling

“He’s a very hurt and angry little brother who’s just as likely to punch Rufus in the face as listen to him.”

“Assuming we even need to contact Rufus,” Leif said. “We’re going to try to not have to do that, remember?”

Sal pulled in a heavy breath. “I know.”

“So maybe don’t borrow trouble,” Bjorn suggested.

“I worry about them. I can keep an eye on them when they’re here, but…”

“We’ll keep them safe,” Leif promised.

Bjorn grunted, because he was making no such promises. He didn’t think it was wise to promise something he wasn’t positive he could deliver.

Leif twisted around in his seat to glare at him.

“What?” he mouthed.

Leif made his eyes big.

“We’ll do our best,” Bjorn said aloud.

Leif still scowled.

“Thanks, guys. I’m going to take a nap. I’ve set an alarm for forty-five minutes. Don’t. Do. Anything. Not until I’m back.”

“Of course,” Leif assured them.

There was a soft buzz, then nothing, but Bjorn hadn’t heard anything much when Sal had been on the line, either.

“They’re gone,” Leif assured him.

He didn’t question it. However Leif knew they were gone, if he knew, he knew. Bjorn had learned not to question what he knew or how he knew it. What he did question was Leif’s uncharacteristic assurance to Sal that they would make sure nothing happened to “their boys.” “Why did you promise that?”

“Why didn’t you?”

“Because I have no idea what’s going to happen. Why would I promise them something if I didn’t know I could deliver? Why did you?”

“Because that’s what they needed to hear.”

“Who needed to hear what?” Roger asked.

“Nothing,” they said together.

“Sal asked you to look after us,” Roger said. It wasn’t a question, and Leif sighed.

“Maybe you just follow the plan and stay out of trouble,” Bjorn said.

“Always do. I’m good at doing what I’m told.”

“Please let that be true,” Bjorn muttered.

Kassian’s internal clock woke him as they arrived in North Bay. Sheepish, he pushed himself upright from his lean into Bjorn.

“Sorry.”

Bjorn shrugged.

“Thought I would park downtown,” Roger said, peering in the rearview at Kassian.

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