Page 31 of Gideon

Joey laughed again, then noticed Gideon. “You’re back.”

“Everything okay in here?” Gideon said, swinging his gaze across to Eric, who had turned to look at him.

A grunt came from Gideon’s throat, but he couldn’t form any words when he saw that not only was Eric’s face clear of blood, but the bruising and swelling had completely disappeared. Both his eyes were bright and clear.

“Your friend is an interesting fellow,” Joey said. “Why didn’t you introduce us sooner? I haven’t heard stories this good in a long time.”

Gideon ignored his dad and moved closer to Eric, searching for any sign of injury. “How did that happen?”

“How did what happen?” Joey said.

Eric nodded to the bag Gideon still held. “I told you you didn’t need to bother with that stuff.”

Gideon looked at the bag, then back at Eric. “I thought you meant you didn’t want to inconvenience me. How is this possible?”

Eric shrugged. “It’s like I said in the diner. There’s more here than meets the eye.”

“Are you feeling okay, Giddy?” Joey said. “You’re acting weird.”

“Dad, when you woke up, did he have any wounds on his face?”

Joey pulled his chin in. “No. Why would he?”

“Did he show you my note?”

“What note?”

“Maybe we should have a chat.” Eric stood. “Joey, it’s been an absolute pleasure meeting you.” He held out his hand, and they shook.

“Pleasure’s all mine,” Joey said. “You’re welcome any time.”

Eric patted his pockets like he was looking for keys or glasses, then he looked at Gideon. “Why don’t we take a walk?”

“I—yeah—no—I can’t. My leg is a mess. I need to get some ice on it.”

Eric patted his shoulder as he walked past. “You’ll be fine. Come on. We need to have a good long talk.”

“I thought your leg was getting better?” Joey said.

Gideon shook his head and turned to Eric. “I’m not going down those stairs again. Not yet.”

Eric shrugged. “I’ll be outside waiting.”

Gideon wanted to chase after him and drag him around. He wanted answers, but that would have to wait. Or maybe it was impossible. Eric could decide now was the best time to disappear so he didn’t have to explain.

“Did you hurt your leg again?” Joey said.

“Yeah. Can I borrow your bag of frozen peas? I meant to give it to Eric before I left, but apparently, he didn’t need it.”

“As long as you replace it.”

“Are you serious?”

“You asked to borrow it.”

“Fine then, can I have it? Or—you know what? Never mind. I’ll get you more.” He hobbled toward thekitchen but stopped and looked down at his leg. He carefully leaned onto it, adding pressure when he felt no pain. “What is going on?”

“What?”

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