Page 43 of Last Call

Nothing Dave had confided in Fallon surprised Riley. She doubted it would surprise Andi, either.

“Sounds like you and Dave had a good talk,” Riley said.

“We did.”

“I see it in your eyes,” Riley observed. “Whateverideathat’s brewing in your head has you excited.”

“I guess it does. It doesn’t matter to me more thanourplans.”

“Fallon, I know what matters most to you. The same things matter most to me. You’re restless.”

Fallon opened her mouth to protest.

“Don’t say a word,” Riley warned. “You are restless. I know what’s holding you back.”

“You do?”

“I think so. You worry about dividing your time between work and our family.”

“Don’t you?”

“Yes. That’s why I want to step back when we have another child.”

“Riley…”

“Butyouworry that I’ll want to put off adding to our family if you’re involved in a new project.”

“Maybe.”

“No. Youdo,” Riley said. “That isn’t going to happen.”

Fallon nodded.

“I know that you will always put our family first. I also know that you need something for yourself—we all do.”

“What about you?” Fallon asked.

“I need some time to enjoy our family without juggling deadlines. That’s what I need for myself. I hope it gives me time to read for pleasure rather than with a critical eye and looming deadlines. I hope it helps me find the headspace to write again. The time will come when I need to return to work. Believe me. I’ll make a deal with you.”

“A deal?”

“You look into thisideayou have earnestly, and I’ll think about resigning when my projects are finished.”

“I’m not trying to pressure you,” Fallon said. “About anything.”

“I know.”

“Would you like to see the property in Jeffersonville?” Fallon asked.

“I’d love that.”

“I am sorry about before.”

“Let’s focus on what’s ahead, okay?” Riley suggested. She was about to continue when her phone rang. “Hi, Beth. What? When?” Riley asked, looking at Fallon. “No, no. Of course you can. Just bring them over. Beth, it’s okay. We’re here. Okay. I know. Me too. See you in a few minutes.”

“Riley?”

Riley sighed. “It’s Marge.”

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