Page 32 (1/2)

I turn to see Agent Aidan Monroe approachinga tray of hot drinks in paper cups Gone is the wide-eyed neho had started here a o He looks jaunty and confident today,a snappy blue suit that is tailored to his athletic forood with his brown hair and clean cut looks He looks like he has settled into the job

“Newbie, back on the case, huh?” he says to ot you a tea”

“You’re the newbie,” I shoot back at hirin “I see you’re on drinks duty”

He handshours than you have under my belt”

“Yes but I’ve cracked two cases Two” I hold up two fingers for emphasis

“Yeah,

and you cracked souy’s head open on the first one I hear”

“Hey,” I smack his arm playfully

“Careful e here!” he says

“Tell you what, if you find a lead that solves this case before I do, then I will accept that I’m the newbie”

“You’re on,” he says “But I’ this case like a pro”

“If you say so But if I find a lead before you—”

“No way No wagers You know the boss doesn't like it”

“Co He’ll never find out”

He scrunches his face up while he thinks about it “What did you have in mind?”