Chapter Twenty-Five Gray I tripped twice walking down Laurel Street, and both times Ricardo caught me. My nerves were shot, and the beer and tequila were amplifying the dread I felt. Every few moments I would sneak a glance in Ric’s direction. He appeared healthier than I’d seen him in years, his tan skin glowing in the afternoon sun, and his dark glossy hair glistened. “So, when did you start drinking?” Ric quietly asked, startling me. I never expected to hear him questioning my drinking habits, though come to think of it, I had been drinking more. “Well, um, you are kinda catching me at an awful time. A lot going on.” I mumbled, then realized we were approaching my street. Ric automatically turned toward my apartment, and without thinking I grabbed his elbow. “No, um, not my place.

