Page 54 of Reinventing Cato
“I don’t think that’s a good idea.”
“It’s about Louise.”
Cato stiffened. “What about her?”
“I don’t want to talk on the phone. I want to see you.”
“No.” Cato found himself clenching his fist so hard, he was hurting his palm with his nails.
“Let me come and take you out for dinner one night.”
“No.”
“Cato. Please.” Max gave a short sigh. “Tell me about the interview. Did you wow them? Of course you did. Were you nervous? I’m so proud of you. As long as they don’t want to send you into space, eh?” Max laughed. “I remember when we looked up the qualifications needed. What was it? A PhD, extensive flying experience, scuba certification, and parachuting skills, and you said there was no way you’d—”
“I’m tired, Max. I need to go to sleep.”
“Sorry. Did you have a bad journey back too?”
Stop asking me questions as if we’re friends.“Night.”
“Night, Cato.”
He was relieved when the call was over, relieved Max accepted it was over. Though he suspected the calls weren’t going to stop. Had Max sent that text? Cato chewed his nail and silenced his phone. He couldn’t believe Max would hurt his family, but it was clear he wasn’t just going to walk out of Cato’s life or let Cato walk out of his. Having a number of mutual friends didn’t help. Cato didn’t see why he should give up his friends just to avoid Max.
But while Max might not want him halfway around the world, Louise would probably be delighted. Or would she? Maybe she’d want Cato around just to keep Max happy. They both knew how Cato felt about his family.
He did some work prep but when he found himself yawning, he showered, cleaned his teeth, then climbed into bed naked. He thought for a while over what to text Vigge, then went withI’ve dumped the body but there’s blood everywhere. Any suggestions?
The reply came back fast.Run.
Are you home?
Yep. I’m in bed. What are you doing?
Cato smiled.I’m in bed too. Naked.
Show me.
It’s dark.
I don’t care.
Cato sent a picture of an elephant’s arse.
Just as I remembered.
Cato grinned.Elephant sex lasts up to two minutes. I feel we have a lot in common.
Really?
Savannah elephants have six-foot monster penises that turn bright green when mating season comes around.
There was a pause before Vigge responded.How am I supposed to sleep now?
Like a log.Cato sent another factoid about penguins and put his phone to sleep.
Chapter Nine
