Chapter 21

I sighed and pretended I was there on my own.

And then Mark rested his hand on my lower back, and I resented the layers of my overcoat and suit jacket which kept me from feeling the warmth of his touch. “This is my colleague, Quinton Mann.”

“Mr. Mann.” Granger held out his hand. “You had quite a reputation around the WBIS.”

“Really? Should I be flattered?”

“Yeah. We’re—we werea tough bunch to impress. I have to say it’s a real pleasure to finally meet you.” He laughed softly.

I raised an eyebrow but accepted his hand. “Have we met?”

He grinned and turned to Mark. “I’m gonna get Patti out of here. It’s getting too smoky.”

“Good idea.”

“Listen, why don’t we get together for dinner or a drink? If you don’t have plans for New Year’s Eve…?”

“I’ll…” He cut a glance toward me. “I’ll give you a call about it. You at the same number?”

“Yeah.”

“Okay, then. Make sure you drive carefully.”

“I will.” Granger squeezed Mark’s arm. “Merry Christmas. Mr. Mann.”