Chapter 41

That afternoon Don had hurried across the street to the bank where he kept his expense account for the business and withdrew four thousand dollars.

She was still sitting where heÕd left her when he came back and the waitress had placed his regular order in the place across from MelissaÕs. He looked at the food and back to her. ÒI told her it was okay to put it there. I even covered it to protect it from flies.Ó She explained.

He slid back into his seat and passed the envelope full of cash to her discreetly. ÒWhatÕs this Melissa asked as she looked at the envelope suspiciously, though she already knew what was in there. It had the name of the bank and its logo on the flap.

ÒYour rent and a little extra.Ó SheÕd just looked at him, and back down at the envelope. ÒI donÕt knowÉÓ

ÒOh please take it.Ó He was begging her to take his money, just what she wanted, but she wanted more than a one-time payoff.

ÒAnd what do I owe you for this kindness?Ó

ÒIÉI just want t