Page 89 of Ewan

And then, Ewan arrived.

Ewan wasn’t Colley’s cousin, for sure.

Does Colley know him?

If he does, then Elisa does.

Ewan also said the man he had replaced––Colley’s cousin––was in an accident and couldn’t make it.

So, why would he ask Ewan to replace him?

This makes no sense.

I don’t normally have mobsters on speed dial–-although I may have one now. Someone I could call when things are dire and need some help.

Is he friends with Colley’s cousin?

Are they related?

I can’t call Elisa and start asking questions about these two men without giving her an explanation.

If Elisa knows Ewan, does she know he’s a mobster?

A cold gust of wind wraps its icy fingers around my neck. I look up and down the street and think of a place where I could spend a few moments and think about this new development.

I wish Sammy didn’t say that.

It’s not like me to avoid hard truths, but this isn't a good moment for dealing with them.

I don’t want to make decisions based on information my friend just slipped to me.

Even if she’s right… What if she’s right?

It feels like the temperature suddenly drops. I’m shaking so badly.

Another gust of wind makes me divorce my indecisiveness.

I walk down the street and find a small bakery where they serve food and hot drinks, and people can sit at the tables.

I walk in and welcome the aroma of freshly baked goods and hot coffee.

I’m not hungry, but I buy a croissant, a fruit yogurt, and a decaf coffee.

Once I have everything on the table, I slide into my chair. Most people in the store are in line at the counter, and their voices become distant static as I look out the window, take a bite, and ponder what just happened.

What if she’s right?

The question comes to me again, and I try to examine the situation with more clarity.

Can he be that man?

He absolutely can.

Would I still be talking to him if he were a Mafia Boss?

If I didn’t risk my life doing it, I probably would.

Would I still find him attractive?