"After college. Went to Baltimore for my first job. Moved to Atlanta for another job. Moved to Lawrence a little over a year ago."

"But not for a job offer this time," Paul said. "What made you leave Atlanta if it wasn't for a new company?"

He felt Ace stiffen in the seat next to him. Paul kept brushing against the landmines.

"None of my business?" Paul guessed quietly.

"Just a story for another time," Ace said. "Gotta leave something for the sequel."

"Fair enough."

"Your turn now," Ace said. "Tell me your fairy tale."

"Awww," Paul complained. "But I had so many clever follow-up questions."

"We'll save Q-and-A for...