`` of course we know , do n't be ridiculous ! '' i was wrong to think -- '' `` that 's okay , '' she said softly . come here lad i have another job for you . all right , man , i said , but at least keep your voice down . i dont think we should discuss that on a bus , he said . meet me in the hallway , just over there , '' he said , pointing to my right , `` in three minutes . he could n't protect her , not there . 