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'Andy, I'm John. This is Steve.' |
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Steve, at the sink to the left, leaned forward and raised a sudsy hand. |
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'I've been in a lot worse than this, Andy. And I'm here, all in one piece. You'll be fine. We'll all be fine. Are you here with somebody?' |
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'My . . . friend. Tina?' He said the name as if he expected John to know her. |
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'And probably scared half to death,' John said. 'Go out there and sit with her. Give her a hug. You'll both feel better.' |
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The kid hurried for the restroom door. |
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'Nice little pep-talk,' Steve said. |
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John rinsed the soap off his hands. 'I'm gonna get in the phone line. Would you mind telling Lynn? I'll be along as soon as I've gotten through to the house. You stay with the gals, OK?' |
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He shut off the water and climbed out of the tub. 'So,' he said, 'was it good for you?' |
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