Part 79 (2/2)

hall.

”We need the horns,” Brian began when he signaled a halt. ”Can't get

the frill sound without them.” His heart stopped when he spotted the man

beside Emma, then sl(ywly, thickly began beating again. ”Lieutenant.”

”Mr. McAvoy.” After a quick warning glance at his son, Lou crossed the

hall. ”I'm sorry to interrupt your rehearsal, but I wanted to speak to

you again, and your daughter, if possible.”

”Do you-”

”No. I have very little to add to what you already know. But if I

could have a few minutes of your time?”

”Sure. You chaps want to go for lunch? I'll catch up with you.”

”I could hang around,” Johnno offered.

”No.” Brian gave his shoulder a quick squeeze. ”Thanks.”

Emma caught the look in Michael's eyes. She'd seen the same expression

in those of the girls at school when they'd discovered who her father

was. Her lips curved a little. She liked his face, the slightly

crooked nose, the clear gray eyes.

”Would you like to meet them?”

Michael had to wipe his sweaty palms on his jeans. ”Yeah. That'd be

boss.”

”I hope you don't mind,” Lou said to Brian as he noted that Emma had

spared him from asking. ”I brought my son along. Not strictly

procedure, but-”

”I understand.” Brian took a long, envious look at the boy as Michael

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