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“He doesn’t value himself right now. But he does value you. Don’t hesitate to do what I did in the car—remind him his consequences could get you in trouble or hurt you in some way. He’ll do the right thing by you, even if he won’t yet do the right thing for himself.”
“That feels really manipulative to lay on him.”
I smiled. “Trust me, he’s manipulating you more.”
Autumn sighed. “Thank you. Not just for coming with me, but for giving me some insight into what’s going on in Storm’s mind. They don’t teach that kind of stuff in social work school.”
“Anytime.”
“I owe you one. I’m not sure I can put on a cape and come to your rescue like you did for me tonight. But keep my IOU in your pocket in case you need some help with social service on a case someday or whatever.”
I nodded.
“Come on,” she said. “I’ll drop you back at your car before it’s time for you to be at work already.”
“Actually, how about if we go out for a cup of coffee or a drink? I’m not tired.”
Autumn nibbled her bottom lip. “I should get going.”
It would’ve been smarter to use her IOU to have her put a good word in for me with her boyfriend, but instead I reached into my pocket and pretended to pull something out. Extending my empty hand to her, I said, “I’d like to cash in this IOU that’s been burning a hole in my pocket.” I smiled. “Have coffee with me.”