James Talking With Two Other Gentlemen

"Perfectly. I look forward to seeing you."

I had no reason to look forward to private meetings with him, but I dutifully left just before noon and found a town car waiting for me, idling at the curb. Clancy, father's driver and bodyguard, opened the door for me as I greeted him.

Then he slid behind the wheel and drove me downtown. By twenty after the hour, I was sitting at a conference table in his offices, eyeing a beautifully catered lunch for two.

He came in shortly after my arrival, looking dapper and distinguished. His hair was pure white, his face lined but still very handsome.

His eyes were the colour of worn blue denim, and they were sharp with intelligence. He was trim and athletic, taking the time out of his busy days to stay fit even before he'd married his trophy wife –.

I stood as he approached, and he bent to kiss my cheek. "You look lovely, Emmy."