15 Chapter 15

“Hal said to bring you in after Christmas,” Ellis concluded.

Casey wrinkled his forehead at Ellis’s words, staring intently at him as if he was trying to make sense of what Ellis was saying. “Why?”

“Because he wants you on the job, silly. Didn’t you listen to what I told you?”

“Yes, but I still don’t understand why?” He rubbed his neck.

“Because he knows he can trust you and because I’ve told him you’re a hard worker.”

“But what about…” Casey’s voice trailed off.

Ellis knew what he was asking; he didn’t have to finish his sentence. “He knows about us. They all do. You know that.”

“Knowing is one thing. Seeing it with your own eyes is different.” He leaned closer to Ellis, seeking comfort in his presence, and Ellis moved him around and urged him to retake his place in front of him. He encouraged Casey to lean against his chest. Casey did and put his hands over Ellis’s, so they both held Casey’s Christmas present.

“There’s somethin’ else.”