That is the joke in the office. He doesn’t seat. He doesn’t sleep. He doesn’t laugh or take breaks or take vacations. He doesn’t lose case... either. He doesn’t come cheap. The billables alone from his division allow the rest of the company to run their own way. The Board of Directors have given him honor after honor, raise after raise, company car, new signing bonus, an entire floor to himself (and his staff of 1). All to keep anyone from tempting him away or (heaven forbid) to break. I sniffed and then sipped cautiously. Clare tossed hers down and spluttered. It had a wonderful taste and a kick like a mule. We left Dave and my father sipping their drinks. In the kitchen Clare asked my mother if she needed help. Mother shook her head.“No thanks, Clare, but could you two get the living room fire going? It’s laid and just needs a match and some coaxing.”I lit the fire. Clare and I sat on the settee and watched as the fire struggled into life. I had to add some more kindling. ’‘So why are you a therapist then?’‘Because I like it. The same goes for the art gallery.’‘And your husband?’‘Rob. You can call him Rob. He works too much. At least that’s what I think. This week he is in London again. He’ll be gone until the weekend, possibly longer.’They were quiet then. Alex looked out the window, aware that he did feel a thrill of excitement. A new country, new surroundings, beautiful weather and away from his parents. He thought of the piece of hash that he had hidden in. He went crazy. He snuck in to my hotel and waited for me. Nick was with me he noticed something unusual. We caught him between us. He challenged me to an old time gunfight. He missed I put two bullets in his right shoulder." Why didn't you kill him?" You know me by now Lilly. I don't kill for pleasure. Anyway, he agreed to never go against me again. Now, I am going to have to kill him." Are you better than Nick?" Yes, but I am not cold blooded about killing. If Nick and I would have gone.