Chapter 2

Inspecting himself in the full-length mirror, Lou decided he still looked pretty good. No gray in his dark curly hair. Jawline still firm. Given that he was pushing forty, it could be worse. He sucked in his gut and squared his shoulders. He would pull out of this slump. Sell the house, pay off his debts, and pick up his hustle. He could talk anybody into anything; that’s how he got this house and all the trappings of a successful life in the first place. He could do it again, no problem. He just had to buy himself some breathing room. He grinned at his reflection. Okay, that was settled. Now, what was he going to do for the next couple of days while everyone else celebrated the holidays?

Downstairs, he poured himself a scotch and drained it in two swallows. From a closet, he pulled a soft leather jacket that made him feel young. Added a red cashmere scarf so he would look festive. Glanced at himself in the hall mirror. Not bad. He was ready to find himself some Christmas cheer.2