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I took a last look at Lady Percival and felt a burst of pride She had co nicely and the best part was I no the name of the book she held in her hands Ethan had helpedand I’d invited him back here

The book my mysterious lady held was in fact so special and so rare that the Mallerton Exhibition wanted her included in the show even though she was not even close to being fully conserved They wanted to showcase her as an exauous clues can be revealed with proper restoration and cleaning The disclosure of what she held in her hand had also enhanced the provenance for the artist in general Sir Tristan Mallerton was now enjoying a renaissance of renewed interest and exposure even though he’d been dead for a very long time

My phone buzzed with a text fros and took off, waving to Rory as I checked out

Neil helped me with the food and used a coot him a stern look from me

"Well he thinks Frances ordered lunch and this is how he does it If you pay he’ll be a right prick about it when he finds out," Neil said

"Has he always been so controlling, Neil?" I asked once ere back in the car and on our way Neil and I had developed an easy rapport We respected the others position and needs so the relationship worked

"No" Neil shook his head E had a hard edge to hies everybody who gets too close to it E got as close as it gets andmiracle"

"I’ve seen his scars," I said

"Did he tell you about what happened in Afghanistan?" Neil looked up atthat the infor fro Ethan’s past than he would be about knowing mine

Elaina helped us dole out the food to the proper parties and Frances usheredlook and shut the door He was on the phone

My gorgeous guy was busy ork but still held out his hand to me I set the sandwiches on his desk and went to him He snaked his arht on with his business call

"Right, I know But you tell those fools that Blackstone represents the Royal Fa cere exit left unattended Period No negotiation…"

Ethan continued with his call and I began unpacking his lunch He moved his hand up to the back ofh any idiot could see he was dreadfully busy

I set out his food on a plate and then unwrapped ed et used to this Ethan was so affectionate and I loved the way he wanted to touch uy I was nearly done with half of my sandwich before he ended his call

Both hands reached and turned roaned "Finally It’s like talking to a brick wall sometimes," he ht me lunch…and your delicious self"