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Ignoring her mother’s protests, Sloane led Derek out of the apartment She made sure to double-lock the front door

The elevator ride was silent, and there was definite tension in the air

Sloane turned up her jacket collar as they stepped outside and began to walk “It’s cooler than I realized”

“Don’t,” Derek stated flatly

“Don’t what?”

“Patronizeon And you’re going to tell me what it is”

Sloane blew out a breath “If this is about yourcold feet Just be patient for a few ht from her doctor…”

“Cut it out, Sloane IIt can wait another week This is about whatever’s going on with your father”

“Their place being robbed and h?”

“It’s plenty But you’re keeping soain So I’ht out—what is it?”

Sloane stopped dead in her tracks, ignoring the pedestrian traffic that parted to get around thelares of the people as they passed by She turned to face Derek “Fine I won’t patronize you And I won’t lie to you I’ll just say that I’m not at liberty to discuss this It’s confidential Which is no different than it would be with any other client”

Client privilege So she was playing it that way

Derek was alht with hi his question with a ridiculous excuse “I understand”

Surprised darted across Sloane’s face “Do you?”

“Better than you think”