Chapter 206

I hadn't realized Johnny Burris still stood close to me. Shelly attacked the coke after Kat and Jess had vacated, so he was waiting for her.

"How can you stand just watching?" he asked me.

"What, the girls?" I asked. He nodded. "I've known them a long time. This is part of who they are. You can either get on board, or get out of the way. I feel like you can relate, what with Shelly and all."

"Yeah, man, the money doesn't hurt, either," Burris said.

"I wouldn't have pegged you for a guy who'd be cool with his girlfriend having ... this job," I said.

"Shit, man," Burris said. He paused, as if emphasizing what a laid back guy he was. "I like a little space. Shelly gets to do her thing and makes good money. I get to do my thing when I want to, you know?"

"Trust me," I said. "I know."

We were interrupted by a commotion from outside.