At that moment, Jerry would then tell his friend calmly, "Let's just drop all this back-and-forth. I really don't understand where you're driving at with all these jokes. Like I said before, I wasn't expecting your call so soon. I thought it would take you a few more days to get back to me, that's all. So yes, I was surprised. That's just it. Nothing more."
His voice was firm but not aggressive. There was a bit of tiredness in it too—a quiet frustration, the kind that came from days of suspicion, confusion, and unanswered questions. He wasn't in the mood for jokes. Not now.
On the other end of the line, his friend sighed and said, "Okay, okay. No problem, boss man. I hear you. No need to be worked up. I was just trying to mess with you a bit—you know, lighten the mood. But I get it now. Let's get straight to business."
Jerry didn't respond, but the silence alone showed his agreement.
