Chapter 17

Casa had been in the main house many times, although never into the rooms that made up Jason’s private space. The warm hand on his back guided him now toward a doorway, into a casual, tidy living area, softly lit with a table lamp beside a big recliner. The massive fireplace filled one end of the room, dark and cool now with summer coming on fast. The rest of the room held sturdy, simple, comfortable-looking furniture, a big shelf full of books, and a few pieces of art on the adobe-tan walls.

Casa recognized a Remington and a Russell, and a couple by regional artists whose work was catching on with a broader audience. The room reflected Jason—quality but quiet, completely southwestern with an eye toward comfort and peace rather than show. Casa nodded to himself. Yes, this is good; this is Jason. No surprises. I could fit in here after all, poor Tex-Mex cowboy that I am…

“Want a drink or have you had enough today?”