“As far as that?” he says. “She won’t be coming in here anymore. We’ve discussed it, she’s agreed. That’s over. Never again. But if she does? Come in? Call out. That’s an order, or whatever. A directive. We’re going to try to get our marriage back together. Would you be willing to help me out with that, pal? By, you know, calling out? If she does, uh, weaken and come in here?”

I nod.

“Just so you know?” he says. “I don’t blame you. At all. She’s a beautiful woman. I get that. How was someone with your, uh, limitations supposed to know anything about restraint, morality, loyalty, and all that? The funny thing is, I don’t really blame her either. We’d hit a rough patch. I’d sort of withdrawn. Into my hobby. And you’re a nice-looking young guy. I bet you chatted her up good. With your Speaking. Am I right?”

I blush.

“Story of my life,” he says. “Hoisted by my own petard.”

He takes a pear from his pocket, puts it in my hand.

“No hard feelings,” he says. “You woke me up. You did. Woke us up. Saved us. Literally, yes, by, you know, killing those two. That was a big deal, for sure. Where would we be right now without you?”

“Dead,” I say.

“Dead, yes, true,” he says. “But also, emotionally, where would we be?”

Without me, I think, you would be nowhere emotionally, being dead.

“And in case you’re wondering, because I know the two of you were close?” he says. “Mikey is with some compassionate relatives. Also getting some help. This has been heartbreaking for him. Obviously.”

Then he goes out, halfheartedly straightening a few chairs en route, then giving up, as it is a big and lowly job, best left to the likes of Jean and Jed.

Though tired, I wait up.

For Mrs. U.

Likely he is out there, watching her like a hawk.

Come to me, my love, I think. I have killed in your name. And need to know it was worth it.

Then in she comes.

Yes, here she is, against his wishes.

Standing silently against Podium, she raises one finger to her lips, indicating: Stay quiet.

Ignoring his directive, I do not call out. I want her to know that I am here for her, that I will do with her whatever she desires, even to the ultimate, whatever that is.