I’m not sure whether I should stay or not.
“Am I contagious?”
“No,” I answer.
She rolls her eyes and smirks. “Then sit.” Nikki gestures to space on the bed beside her. It’s an invitation, and I should take it. I also should be buried in my office working. There’s more to be done and surveillance videos to watch.
I oblige her request and perch myself on the edge of her bed. “Eat,” I command. If I’m doing as she asks, then she will do as I tell her.
Her eyes glance over at the tray, but she doesn’t reach for any of it, not even the crackers.
“Do I have to feed you?” I ask. If she’s going to behave like a child, then I will treat her like one.
She reaches for the crackers and brings one to her lips, taking the tiniest nibble. I’m not sure it should even count as eating, but I let it go.