Chapter 21

“It’s soothing.”

“Right.”

“Well, I hope you have a good time.”

“Oh, we will.” And he went on to tell Max what else he and his girl had planned, which included watching as much of A Christmas Storymarathon as they could before he had to leave for work.

* * * *

Before Max knew it, it was early afternoon and time to get ready for the Christmas party. He’d hoped Smitty would return to the WBIS in time for them to go to the party together, but that was unlikely. Smitty had phoned Max just after lunch to say complications had arisen, and he was still involved with the autopsy he’d told Max about, but he would arrive as soon as he could.

Max showered and shaved, then slicked back his damp hair and dressed in the clothes he’d brought. He admired the cut of the black moiré suit Smitty had given him for his birthday. None of Max’s other lovers had been so thoughtful.