Chapter 79

“Yes, Sir,” Steve said. “We’ve got more than enough set aside for equipment purchases.”

“In that case,” Mason said, “let me make a couple of calls and see if I can set up a time for you to go see a dealer.”

“Thanks, Dad,” Roger said. “Do you think you could find time to go with me when I do? You might be able to drive a better bargain than I could.”

Roger turned his head so that Mason couldn’t see his face, and winked at us as he said that. I looked at Charles and was barely able to suppress a smile.Roger’s a quick study, I thought.

“Sure, Son,” Mason said as he set down his empty wineglass. He said good-bye, and Roger followed him downstairs to see him out.

“That little devil,” Charles said.

“What do you mean?” Steve said.

“After what Mason said about his mom needing to feel needed,” I said, “Roger decided that his dad need to feel needed also.”

“Oh,” Steve said. “I get it.” His expression grew a bit cloudy for a moment.