“I’ll mention it to her.When we first met, I told her I worked with you, and she geeked out.She’s a fan.”
“Awesome,” Sam said, her tone full of sarcasm.
Archie laughed.“I knew you’d say that.I’ll let you know when she’s up for a chat.”
“How’re you holding up?”
“I’m a basket case, which is new to me.Not handling it well.”
“You know why that is?”
“Please enlighten me.”
“It’s because shematters.Someone finally matters enough to get emotional over.”
“If this is what that feels like, I’d like to unsubscribe.”
Sam laughed.“You’re getting the hard part first.I promise the good stuff is worth waiting for.”
“If you say so.”
“I do say so.I’m known around the world for being somewhat of an expert on this topic.”
Archie and Freddie groaned at the exact same time, which made her laugh again.
“What?Am I or am I not half of an epic marriage that’s envied the world over?”
“Good God,” Freddie said.“She’s starting to believe her own hype.”
Archie lost it laughing.“I think she started believing that shit a long time ago.”
“What can I say?I am a speaker of truth.I know love, boys, and trust me when I tell you that our boy Archie is on his way to the love boat.I saw it happen with my friend Cruz here.And boy oh boy wasthatmessy.”
Freddie scowled at her.“Shut your mouth.”
“Did you or did you not get shot shortly after the first time you?—”
Freddie’s hand over her mouth ended that thought before she could finish it.
She turned her head to break free.“It was messy.Take my word for it.I’ll expect better of you, Archie.”
“I’ll do my best to make you proud, oh wise one.”
“I’m already proud of the way you’re stepping up for her.That’ll matter to her in the long run.”
“Thanks.I’m trying.”
“Let me know if there’s anything you need.I’ll send Freddie over.”
“Haha,” Freddie said, “but I’m here for you, too, friend.”
“That means a lot.Thanks for checking in, guys.Keep me posted on the investigation.”
“We’ll be in touch.”
Sam slapped her phone closed.“How about that?Another of my little boys is growing up.”
“You have a big mouth.”
