Page 155 of Ready to Cash Out

Trev snorted out a laugh.

Of course.

“And Juicy?” Trev prompted.

“Right here!” Juicy waved as he entered the kitchen, smiling brightly. He was wearing striped pajamas and a robe, but he was barefoot. He’d clearly been doing something outside because his feet were dirty.

Mickey trailed in behind him with a scowl.

“What the hell?” Trev laughed.

Well, that explained where Mickey was.

“I had to take Barkie for his morning walk!” Juicy said as he sat down with a big grin. “That little rascal got off his leash and took me for quite a little adventure!”

Mickey’s sour expression indicated that adventure was not the word he would use.

Still, imagining Mickey having to chase Juicy down as Juicy went after his imaginary dog added about ten years to Trev’s life and he grinned from ear to ear.

Even Cold had a little smile playing over his lips, as if he too was amused.

Mickey just kept scowling.

“Did you, uh, catch him?” Jimmy asked politely.

“Of course.” Juicy stared. “He’s right here.” He gestured to the empty floor.

“Right. Got it.”

Jerry came over to pass a plate of food to Jupiter and coffee for Trev. He smiled at Juicy, saying, “The usual for you and your canine companion, monsieur?”

“Yes, please! Thank you.” Juicy beamed, but then his smile dropped as he looked over Trev. “Who’s dying today?”

Trev nearly dropped his coffee. “What?”

“I’ve never seen you in a suit.” Juicy frowned. “Are you going to a funeral?”

“No, Juicy. Just going out to lunch.” Trev forced a smile. “I promise everything is all right. As soon as we get back, me, you, and Jupiter are going on a trip.” He quickly added, “And Barkie too, of course.”

“Oh! Splendid.” Juicy smiled again.

Jupiter reached under the table to give Trev’s thigh a warm squeeze.

Trev smiled and breathed in his coffee, letting the scent soothe him as much as the promise of caffeinated bliss.

Maybe this was going to be all right.

Maybe everything would work out and?—

“Someone is still going to die though,” Juicy said firmly.

Trev sighed. “Thank you, Juicy.”

“Look! You’re already dressed for it. So, it shouldn’t be a problem.”

“Yup. Thanks. Super appreciate that.”

“Don’t forget. They’ll wrap up your leftovers and make it look like a swan.”

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