I shimmied myself down the branch, one stressful inch at a time. “You’re halfway,” he said. “Relax, Famous Amos. I won’t let anything happen to you.” “I know you won’t, but gravity is another story.” Little by very little, the window got closer. Hutch came more into focus. My fingers maintained their white-knuckle grip around the branch. “Okay, in the homestretch.” He held out his hand and motioned me to come forward. I reached out to take it and lost my balance. I felt myself sliding down the side of the branch. I was in such shock I couldn’t react. No screams, no sassy remark. Only the
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