Two weeks after Philip d'Autremont is acquitted of his wife's murder, it's time for him and his partner and lawyer, Charles Barnett, to start building their life together. But it turns out that not everyone in Atlanta is as ready to leave the trial in the past as Charles and Philip, and a surprise attack leaves Charles in the hospital and Philip's arm in a sling.<br><br>With thoughts of their own mortality fresh in their minds, Charles and Philip make a decision that will change their lives forever. Future plans and home renovations take their minds off the attacks, but the danger isn't over yet: the people behind the attacks are still at large, and they weren't acting alone.

Tribulation

“Taking charge. I took charge of things last May because I had the expertise and you were out of your depth. You’re taking charge now not because I don’t have the expertise, but because I’m somewhat incapacitated, so you’re the one that has to take charge.”


“We do make a good team, don’t we?”


“No argument there,” he said. “Now come here and give me some love.”


Before I could comply with his request, I heard the faint sound of door chimes from downstairs and said, “That will be the guys.”


“And none too soon,” he said. “I feel so grungy.”


A FEW MINUTES later, Goodman led John and Joe into the room, then excused himself. The guys were wearing white lab coats, which made them look very professional.


“Hi, guys,” I said. “Ready to get this dirty old man cleaned up?”


“Who’re you calling old?” Charles said.


Chapter 51