Part 310 (2/2)

”Don't I look up to it?” She did a slow model's pivot. The deep blue

dress left her shoulders bare and dipped low at the back before it slid

down her body, sparkling with hundreds of bugle beads.

Her hair was scooped up in intricate tiny waves and clipped with two

glittery combs. On the lapel of the silver jacket she carried was

pinned the phoenix he had given her.

”I'd best not comment what you look up to.” Still, he crossed to her to

stroke a thumb over the bruise on her temple which she'd camouflaged

with makeup. ”You had a rough time a couple days ago.”

”But it's over.” She walked to the table to pour him a gla.s.s of wine.

After a moment's hesitation, she poured another for herself ”Blackpool

can't harm me from a hospital bed.” She offered Johnno a gla.s.s. ”I know

Michael believes he was involved with Darren's murder, and I certainly

won't rule him out, but until he comes out of the coma-if he comes

out-we won't be sure. I've tried to picture him in Darren's room that

night, but I just can't remember.”

”There was someone else there,” he reminded her.

”Isn't that why I have the hottest escort in town for the awards

tonight?”

He grinned over the rim of his gla.s.s. ”I doubt if I make up for

Michael.”

She set down the gla.s.s, barely touched, and picked up her evening bag.

”You don't have to make up for anyone. And he'll get there if he can.

Ready?”

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