"Jillian, what's the matter?"

Crispin didn't want to share his frustration with Jillian, so he forced a calm tone.

"Crispy, where are you? They've set up a welcome party for me and want you to come. We're already here."

"They" referred to their usual circle of friends.

Feeling the familiar pull, and wanting to drown his sorrows in a drink, Crispin decided not to refuse.

"Alright, I'll be there soon."

He hung up, pushed the chaos of the apartment out of his mind, and headed straight for the bar.

On the other side, I was still lounging in bed, mulling over the progress of my plan.

The quiet of the...