Page 126 of Dirty Dylan: Dirty Dusters

“I’ve missed you, Jaine.”

There’s a pause. Yet another comment I’m not sure how to take. He can’t mean anything by it, can he? I mean, he’s with Molly now. I decide to answer just as truthfully.

“I guess I’ve sort of missed you too. Not in the traditional sense, but I have missed our exchanges in a fucked-up kind of way. You’ll be pleased to know there isn’t anyone who can make my blood boil quite like you can.”

“Is that so?”

I can tell by his low tone where his mind’s going.

“Not like that. You flatter yourself way too much, Eoin.” I quickly steer the conversation in a safer direction. “Anyway, I thought you should know that when I return, I’ll be making contact with Irish.”

There’s a pause.

“And do you think that’s a good idea?”

“I’m not sure what harm it will do. He’ll be married. I’m already married.”Plus, I have no choice.

“And what will you tell him?”

“The truth.”

“So, everything I said and everything I asked of you when I visited you that day.”

“Are you suggesting I lie?”

“Not at all. I’m just not sure what good it will do dragging up the past.”

“What good it will do you, you mean.” I feel myself getting wound up as he shows his true colors once more. That it’s always about him. It didn’t take long.

“Partly that, yes. And are you going to tell him that you’re still in love with him?”

“Not that it’s any of your business, but no, I’m not.” I snap, cursing myself inwardly for doing so. “It’s clear he’s moved on,” I add much more calmly. I pause. Should I admit what I’m about to?

“I tried to call him.”

“I know you did.”

There’s no delay in his response.

“He didn’t pick up.”

“I know that too. I told him not to.”

“Right… and how did you know?”

I pause at the realization. I mean I knew they were monitored but surely not to that extent.

“You read my message exchanges with Dylan word for word, twenty-four seven, don’t you?”

“Yes.”

I pause.

“I guess it really is a case of big brother’s watching, although I’m not sure I fully understand the need.”

“It’s for everyone’s safety.”

“Not for mine.”

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