. um ... had a great time this week, Marissa." I did, too," she said with a sigh. She needed a sign from him. Something to tell her that she hadn't be...n played."I—" he started. There was a long pause. "I don't suppose we could see each other again? Go out to dinner or for drinks?" I don't date clients," Marissa replied reflexively, and almost immediately she wished she had kept her mouth shut.Alan fell silent. He looked away and out the window.She searched his face for hints. There was pain. Entering the kitchen I see the light blinking on the Sat-phone. I point to it for Mitch’s benefit. He punches in his code and listens, then punches in a series of numbers, pushes ‘Hands free’ and sets it on the kitchen table. I can hear it ringing on the other end, then it clicks in as it is picked up and another series of clicks. Mitch has been explaining more about these mysteries to me, warning me that I should never let it be known that he has shared. The last series of clicks is the. "You're not Geoffrey." No. I'm William. We always looked very much alike. Are you able to stand? May I get you some water? Do you have a maid?" She is out for the evening," Caroline waved a weak hand in the general direction of the town's theatre as William helped her to a seat on the sofa. "Yes. Water. Thank you."William strode back into the foyer."She has a maid who was conveniently away tonight. Find her. She's probably at that revue. Bring her back." Aye, sir. Name of?"William glanced back. “Who’s this bloke mum, and what’s he doing here? This position is so humiliating in front of a strange man.”“Get used to it,” her mother snapped unfeelingly, “He is Mr. Ransome and he is here to give you your punishment.”“What punishment?”“A spanking for shoplifting. And it will hurt I hope.”David nodded and took off his jacket, taking the slipper out of the side pocket. “If I might have a chair beside her, it will be more convenient and effective if I am sitting down.”“Of course,” said Amanda.