Page 23 of The Inmate

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“Melinda and I split up,” he says.

“I’m so sorry to hear that.”

He arches his right eyebrow. “Are you?”

Something catches in my throat. I’m not sure what to make of his tone of voice. He doesn’t sound angry. More like… curious.

“I am,” I say.

His eyebrow stays raised. “Are you still seeing Caleb?”

“Yes.”

He nods. “He seems like a nice guy.”

“He is.”

“Good.”

I still have that catch in my throat. I feel like I’m going to choke or something. “I better get back to my desk.”

Seth nods and turns back to his computer screen. But I can feel his eyes on me as I leave the room.

ChapterTwelve

SIX MONTHS EARLIER

To: Seth Hoffman

From: Dawn Schiff

Subject: Refrigerator Cleaning Schedule

To Seth,

I have created a schedule for cleaning the refrigerator in the break room on a twice-weekly basis, with each employee assigned a designated date to clean. With your permission, I would like to post this schedule on the refrigerator. Also, I have attached an information sheet about common bacteria that grow at cold temperatures.

Sincerely,

Dawn Schiff

To: Seth Hoffman

From: Dawn Schiff

Subject: Refrigerator Cleaning Schedule Follow-Up

To Seth,

Did you get my email about the refrigerator cleaning schedule? Please let me know ASAP!

Sincerely,

Dawn Schiff

To: Mia Hodge

From: Dawn Schiff

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