* * * *
“I’m out of here,” I told Quinn as we had one last drink. Wexler and Holmes had parted ways before I could get close enough to hear what they were saying, with Holmes actually leaving the ball. So I concentrated on making sure Wexler had a miserable time.
Quinn smiled at me. “If I stay any longer, I’ll turn into a pumpkin.”
“Yes, I’m ready to call it a night too.” Mrs. Mann joined us, smothering a dainty yawn with the hand on which she still wore Nigel Mann’s rings.
I spotted Senator Wexler making his way to the men’s room. “I’ll be right back.”
“Mark…”
“I just have to…” I wouldn’t say ‘take a leak’ in front of a classy lady like Portia Mann. “…see a man about a horse. I won’t be long.” I gave Quinn an innocent smile. I didn’t really have to use the facilities, but it would be one more way to let the senator know I was still around and watching him.