Once he'd bid Mr. Barnaby goodbye, Charlie pulled Stephen off around the corner of the building where there weren't quite as many people walking by. He was usually fairly understanding, but this day had gotten the best of him. "Stephen," he said, waiting a second until he actually had the young man's attention. "We need to talk."
"Yes, sir," Stephen said, a sheepish grin plastered on his face.
Looking into his eyes, Charlie wasn't sure he could see any signs of life at all. "Stephen, I appreciate the service you've provided over the last few months."
"Thank you, sir." The smile widened.
"However, I'm afraid our arrangement simply isn't working out," Charlie continued.
There was a vague form of recognition now. "It isn't?" Stephen asked.
"I'm afraid not," Charlie replied, shaking his
