Page 38 (2/2)

Courtney started the coffee and excused herself for a moment When she returned her tears had dried, and the three friends entle breeze from the open s helped to facilitate a calmer atmosphere As Tony spoke, he explained how he never wanted to believe that Claire would want to kill hi He lashed out--at her and everyone else He added, "I’h Brent didn’t respond, Courtney walked to where Tony was seated and wrapped her ar hug than the one he’d received upon his arrival After she moved back to her seat, Brent asked, "How did you secure her pardon?" His frigid tone returned the chill to the spring air

Tony glared in his direction and the wheels turned Honesty? Fabrication?

Before he could reply, Brent continued, "I mean, I accompanied you to Ms Allyson’s office I know you pretty daht"

"No, you do know me," Tony conceded "I didn’t knoas responsible for her pardon that day--and I still don’t Maybe this will pull the coward fro responsibility was Shelly’s idea and I agreed to it She thought it "

"I bet she was excited about this declaration of reunification," sarcasm dripped from Brent’s statement

"She wasn’t" Tony’s neck stiffened "However, I’d hoped that maybe you’d understand"

"I do!" Courtney chilare fro, he said, "I’ Claire and I’ve had the opportunity to hash a few things out, and I’ether, as a couple"

"One press release won’t change people’s perception" Brent stood and paced "Hell, Tony, we’re your friends and I don’t knohat to think What about outsiders, eive a dah the porch and beyond

"You don’t? I’ve known you for a long time, and that has always been your main concern"

"Listen, I don’t have all the answers What if I’ played? What if none of this is real, just soht noant it to be real And," he paused "I’d like to have her accoasped Brent’s eyes greide,the usually present lines

"I haven’t asked her," Tony added quickly "I’ to you first"

Courtney’s words ca our per uess I am"

Courtney stood and walked to theWith her back to them, they could only watch as her head shook slowly from side to side Finally, she turned on her heels; a new look of determination prevailed "Here’s the deal It’s not up to you, or me, or even Claire First and foreht of that

"It’s her wedding I ala in California I don’t wantturned into soe of heart"