page82 (1/2)

The uniformed officers were parked in their patrol car at the curb, coffee containers in hand, car radio on full blast Officer Brad Jamison was a rookie His partner, Ray Baxter, was an old-tiether didn’t have the brainpower of a mosquito This was San Francisco PD’s idea of protection

“Officers,” he said “I’into a hotel for a while My insurance co for it”

“Well, that’s fine, Mr Grant You should let Sergeant Boxer knohere you’re off to”

“Already did it,” said Grant

“You need any help with your luggage or anything?” Officer Baxter asked

“No, no thanks”

“So where are we going?”

“Not we Just little oldprotection for a couple of weeks I’ll stay at the Marriott while I look for a new place”

Jamison said, “Okeydoke You should also fill out a form at the post office so they hold your mail”

“Good idea So thanks for—uh, thanks”

It was noon when Grant turned out of his driveway and headed toward Bayshore Boulevard He drove carefully No mistakes now No traffic stops No license checks No ironic ht plan for a carefully executed and beautiful metamorphosis

Soon he would be in another country, playing an even greater role on an even grander stage And the memories of all his past roles would continue on inside him

God, he loved his life

CHAPTER 82

CONKLIN AND I were parked in front