Chapter 19

“Yes.”

Curtis took a few steps and wrapped his arms around Aaron. He didn’t feel exactly solid, but he wasn’t holding air either. It was like holding onto energy. Aaron’s arms came around him.

“It’s all right, Curtis. This is how it’s meant to be. I don’t want to leave my life, Robbie, my family, you, but it’s time. I need to.”

He just held on. How did you say goodbye to someone who’d just been a part of you and you him? He would never be the same. He couldn’t wrap his mind around knowing Aaron’s own brother had shot him in the back. Aaron deserved better.

Aaron gently released him. “Curtis.”

“What about Robbie?”

“I want him to be happy. If that can be with you, I’ll be very happy.”

“We don’t even know each other, not really,” Curtis whispered.

“I know, but you can change that. Robbie’s the best.”

“He’s going to be mad he didn’t get to say goodbye.”

Aaron shook his head. “I can’t, Curtis. I can’t do it.”

He wiped tears off his cheek. “I’ll never forget you.”