Page 49 of Error Handling

“I never have.”

“I might like to buy one sometime.”

I think for a moment. I’ve never considered how much to charge for my work. I’ve never deemed my paintings good enough to sell. It would feel like cheating someone out of their money.

“It will cost you a song,” I say, finally. “Played by you on my dad’s guitar.” It almost sounds like an invitation for a date, which is my intent.

He looks at me out of the corner of his eye. “I might be able to do that.”

“Then I might be able to paint you an oak tree.”

“I guess we might have a deal.” He moves to stand. “But we need to get your apartment put back together first.”

There’s no rush, I want to say. But instead, I enjoy the way his relaxed jeans look from behind as he walks away.

Chapter 10

Sarah

My room has a view of the Eiffel Tower, Christopher texts.

I didn’t realize you HR people were so crazy.

We aren’t. The plane tickets were cheap. That’s the only reason the convention is here. I may go play Blackjack later though.

Living dangerously, I see.

I know how to partay.

I smile at my phone.

I have the Old Towne Ghost Tours office all to myself and I’m enjoying the quiet. Cassie’s running late because her tire went flat during a doctor appointment.

Christopher is up early on the opposite side of the country to prepare for his first day of conventioning with HR folk. He started our conversation by texting me a picture of his room. It’s impressive enough that it makes me wish I had an excuse to go to Sin City.

I’m sure the entertainment today will be riveting, I text.

Talks of hiring and firing processes, OSHA, and benefits administration always are. I bet you wish you were here.

Not really.

I wish I wasn’t here, Christopher laments.

Take a picture from the top of the Eiffel Tower and send it to me.

Are you crazy?He texts.I’m afraid of heights.

I thought you knew how to partay.

Within humane limits.

Do it, I dare you,I prod.And send me a picture as evidence.

*sigh*

A moment passes and then Christopher texts again.What’s the latest on your car?

Bad fuel injector. You were right.