Chapter 17

“And you need? What do you need, Allan?”

“I don’t know.” I took her hand in mine. “But I’ll figure it out, and meanwhile, I’m enjoying the ride there, okay?”

She slapped my thigh. “Oh! I forgot to tell you…It’s Dayton’s birthday next Sunday and we’re all going to throw him a little party. You’ll come, won’t you?”

11

I’d taken the metro to Dayton’s because I needed the short walk to calm my nerves. It was an exceptionally hot day and I was glad to be in a light polo shirt.

When I saw Dayton’s house, I stopped short, trying to see into the living room. Everyone would be there, including Dali and his new man. The kid had met someone, Elsie had told me this morning, and according to her and Dayton, this guy was the guy. Well, good for him.

Was there something fundamentally wrong with me? Had Anthony been right during all our fights? Was I too nice? Too accommodating? Why was everyone pairing up while I remained alone?