Page 11 of Gideon

“That’s what I mean. I have a system, and you’ll screw with it. I like things this way. I know where everything is.”

“This place is disgusting.”

“How would you like it if I turned up at your house and told you you were a slob?”

“I never said you were a slob. I was referring to how difficult it must be for you the way you are.”

“There’s nothing wrong with me that I can’t handle.”

“What about your workshop?”

“What about it?”

“It’s been closed. And not recently. It looks like since before you had the stroke. Getting up and down the stairs is difficult for you. Why don’t you sell the place and buy something more manageable?”

Joey let out a burst of laughter, then coughed, causing saliva to dribble down his face.

“Here.” Gideon reached for a pile of used napkins on the coffee table.

“Don’t bother.” Joey used his shirt to wipe his face.

“Are you saying you’d rather stay here? Is it because you have so many fond memories?” Gideon couldn’t help the bitterness that edged his voice.

“Giddy, if you need me to say I appreciate the offer of help, then I appreciate it, but you’re wasting your time. Not only do I not want it, I don’t need it.”

“Would you at least consider selling up? I know the town is a little depressed, but you never know. People always need a mechanic. Someone could be looking for a small business. It could sell.”

“Oh, I have no doubt it would. His honorable Mayor Edward Fairfax, the high and mighty, would be more than happy to pay me a pittance for it, like he has all the other suckers.” He leaned forward. “I don’t have much, but at least allow me the decency to keep this. And you’re wrong, by the way.”

“About what?”

“The shop’s not closed. I make it look that way on purpose.”

“You’re telling me the empty shelves and dust is all for show?”

“That’s exactly what I’m saying.”

“Why?”

“Because otherwise I’d go broke.”

“How can you make money if everyone thinks you’re closed?”

“Not everyone does. It looks closed to those who need it to.”

“Why?”

“You ask an awful lot of questions for someone who, a few seconds ago, wanted me to sell. What difference does it make to you?”

“I’m just trying to understand.”

“Well, I’m a bit like you. I have confidential information that I can’t share freely.”

Gideon squeezed the bridge of his nose. “You have confidential information?”

“Yes.”

“About your workshop.”

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