My heart sank a little. I’d hoped to have something new to dive into as soon as we returned.
Perhaps Jay had, too, for he said: ‘What would you like for us to do next, then?’
‘You are free to take some time off, if you’d like.’
Time off? My mind went blank at the prospect. When was the last time I’d had more than, say, half a weekend of free time?
‘Great,’ said Jay, rising from his chair. ‘Because it’s Anaya’s birthday, and I’m late.’
‘Convey my greetings to your family, Jay,’ said Milady.
‘Absolutely, ma’am.’ Jay bowed.
‘Who’s Anaya?’ I asked as he passed me.
‘My sister.’
‘How many sisters do you have?’
‘Three. I’ll see you in a couple of days, all right?’ He smiled at me, and left.
A couple of days. I watched the door close on his retreating back.
‘Can I stay here?’ I asked,
