Not yet. But first…I need to tell you something. It felt as if she had to literally eject the words from her throat; it was much harder than she expected and she wondered what that said about her. Yes, Im aware that I have flown off the rails the last few times youve asked me if something is wrong. And I know we covered most of this on the last case we worked and it was pretty much more of the sameme exploding on you because you were showing concern. I understand how unfair that is to you because yes, I absolutely know that its not you just being nosy. I know that you care and I know you have my back. But, having said all of that, Im going to ask that you just let me have my privacy for the next several weeks or months. Because the truth of the matter is that I am going through something right now. Its something hard and something unexpected, but its also something that I am in no way ready to discuss with you. Not yet, anyway. And if were going to work together in an effective capacity, I need you to respect that. She sighed, releasing all of the tension left behind once the words were out. Are you okay with that?

He nodded, but she could tell there wasnt much authenticity to it. I can accept those terms if you can also accept that I am going to worry about you. And I hope you know that whatever youre dealing with, Im here for you. Because youre absolutely right, Rachel. I do have your back.

He turned away from her for a moment and slipped his jacket on over his white button-down shirt. Now, lets go see this doctor. I do have a soft spot for New York City, but I think thats a tourist tendency coming out in me. But really, as the site of a case, it sort of sucks. And Id love to get out of here as soon as possible.

He started for the door and as his hand fell on the knob, Rachel reached out and lightly grabbed his shoulder. Jack…

Yeah?

Are we good?

He turned to her and the smile he gave her seemed mostly genuine. Depends. Are you okay? Right now, in this moment, are you okay?

Yes, she said. She hated that she wasnt even quite sure if this was true or not.

Then yes, were good.

But the way he hurried out the door toward the car made her wonder. She feared that her secrecy had already caused a fissure between them that may never fully heal. So the only pressing question that remained was if they could still work together with that growing divide between them.

***