I hit send. I'm busy for a little while yet. 10:00 sharp. Don't be early. Don't be late. It was only half past eight now; should give us plenty of time. "Two at a time is plenty," I answered casually, then returned my attention to whatever Cassie was yammering on about.

I lead them to the bedroom, patiently waiting for a breath in which to interject. "So you did well?"

"Not a personal best, but I came in third, and the top time was from this girl who's all-state so there was no way I was gonna beat her anyway, plus I had almost three seconds on fourth place. I...