“Why the hell not?” She tightened her grip on his hand. “Doesn’t everybody

deserve a life?” “It won’t be like living at Ballard’s,” he said. “That was all

smoke and mirrors. I prefer reality, actually.” “I never thanked you for saving

my life. Myers had a kill shot on me.” “I let you down before, I won’t again.”

“What are you talking about?” he said. “When you were on the gurney all numbed

up. I just walked away and left you there.” “What could you do?” “I could have

tried, but I just walked away.” She looked over at him. “I’m sorry.” He

shrugged. “You came through in the end. That’s what counts.” She held his gaze.

“I’ll always have your back from now on, Paul.

 

Always.” “And why is that?” “Because we’re a lot alike.” “How so?” “Damaged

goods. But we have potential.” “I’ll have your back too.” “I never doubted it.

It’s just the way you’re wired.” They exchanged a quick smile and then both

looked ahead.

 

They drove on.

 

To somewhere other than here.