Wild, Hard, Sweet

'Masterminds are slippery,' Harry said.

'Would you care for more coffee, Jack?'

'No, thank you, Elizabeth.' He slid his pad into a leather case. 'I'll have a statement Monday for your approval.'

'Thank you so much. I'm so grateful. We would be lost without you.'

They stood. Harry walked over to Jack and shook hands. He had an urge to brush the croissant flakes from Jack's lapel, but he didn't. The situation was getting more serious. Blaming Charley should help in the short run, but there would be problems down the road. And he didn't feel good about it.

'Thanks, Jack. Mother.' He went outside, taking a suede shirt-jacket from a peg in the hall closet. He needed to walk and think things over. Then maybe see Lynn.

3

Charley found a diner near the bus terminal and ordered pancakes. The blanket roll was doubled in front of his feet. He