Page 96 of Gideon

“She’s a superb organizer,” Nikki said.

“And you too, Gideon. You’re doing good work here. I’m proud of you.”

“What?” Gideon was sure he’d misheard.

“I said I’m proud of you.” The words came out mumbled and hurried.

“You’ve never said that before.”

“Sure I have. Plenty of times. But don’t make a big deal out of it, or else you’ll never hear it again. Geez. Everyone’s so emotional in here.” He shivered. “If I’d have known, I would have stayed home.”

“We’ve all got a lot riding on this.”

“So? You don’t see me getting all teary. I’m going to go see if they need any help.”

“Who?”

“Whoever.” He wandered off in a random direction.

“I can tell he means well,” Nikki said. “He just doesn’t know what to do with it.”

“I know. I don’t know what to do with it either.”

Chapter 25

Gideon did a quick headcount.It was a large bunch, but he’d expected more. Some who’d initially said they were definitely coming hadn’t turned up.

“I thought there would be more,” Nikki said, chewing on her thumbnail.

“It’s my own fault. I did tell them that, if they were scared or uncomfortable, they shouldn’t come.”

“Maybe you shouldn’t have.”

“Don’t say that. I rely on you for your consistently positive outlook.”

“Really?”

“I’ve gotten used to it.”

She used her fingers to push her mouth into a smile. “Wow.” She said through closed teeth. “Look at all the people. There are so many.”

He laughed. “Thanks.”

“Feel better?”

“No. But there’s one good thing about the numbers.”

“What’s that?”

“If we turn up at Fairfax’s door and attempt to get him to cooperate by sheer numbers, this won’t cut it.”

“That’s a good thing?”

“At least we know whatnotto do.”

“I guess we’re lucky that God doesn’t need us, right?”

“You’re asking me?” Gideon said.

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