Page 80 (2/2)

“Which brings us back to the question When did you decide to take it a step further and tie in to individual brain patterns? Did you just stu out a tune?”

He gave a short laugh “You really think what I do is just a slide, don’t you? Just sit down, punch in so work”

“And you’re damned proud of your work, aren’t you? Come on, Jess, you wanted to tell me earlier” Eve rose, cae “You’ve been dying to tell ood is it, what satisfaction is there in creating so to keep it to yourself?”

He picked up his glass again, ran his fingers down the long, slim stem “This isn’t exactly the way I’d pictured this” He took a sip, considered the consequences—and the rewards “Mavis says you can be flexible It’s not just code books and procedure with you”

“Oh, I can be flexible, Jess” When it’s warranted “Talk to me”

“Well, let’s just say that if—hypothetically—I had worked out a technique for individualized subs,People like Roarke and you, with your contacts and financial base, your influence, let’s say, could work around a few antiquated laws andpile Revolutionize the personal entertainment and enhancement industry while you were at it”

“Is this a business offer?”

“Hypothetically,” he said and gestured with his glass “Roarke industries has the R and D, the facilities, thelike this and run with it And a smart cop, seeh, to o down smooth”

“Gosh, Lieutena

nt,” Peabody said with a smile that didn’t touch her eyes “Sounds like you and Roarke are the perfect couple Hypothetically”

“And Mavis as the conduit,” Eve murmured

“Hey, Mavis is chilled She got what she wanted After tonight, she’s going to cruise”

“And you figure that evens out using her to get to Roarke”

He ave hers a real full treatain “Did you enjoy the informal demonstration of my hypothetical system?”

Not certain even her training could keep the fury off her face, she turned, slipped back behind the desk “Demonstration?”