If the drugs don't work no more, you get high on life. (Henrok Achido)

“Okay. Now what about a little commission on this job?”

Rider nodded.

I pushed him from the other side of the counter. “No way!”

“But–”

“Always a “but” with you!”

“You have to get clean.”

“Rider, I shoot up like twice a day – I am clean!”

He shook his head. “I mean clean-clean.”

“And come along to NA meetings?”

“Sure, if you want.”

“I don’t know.”

“It’s a dealbreaker. I can’t have a druggie running my property.”

“Ouch. Druggie.”

“Are you in or out?”

“I’ll have to think about it.”

“The property is already developed, this is an asap deal.”

“I said I have to think about it.”

“I’ll have to hire someone else if you can’t commit to it.”

“I have to think about it.”

“Think about the reign drugs have over your life. You’re going to compromise an opportunity like this for drugs? I thought your habit was under control. I thought you were the one in control of your life?”

“I am.”

“Then this shouldn’t be a big decision.”

“How long do I have to decide?”

“Ten seconds.”

“Shut up.”

“Nine.”

“You’re kidding me.”

“Eight. I need a property manager who can make decisions on the spot. Seven.”

“Rider, I’m your niece.”

“Six.”

“When would I need to start?”

“Five. Detox: immediately. The position: when the first is complete. Four.”

I swallowed.

“Three.”

“I can’t think when you’re counting at me like that.”

“Two.”

I panted.

“One.”