WITH ONLY A couple more weeks to Christmas, and because Kate would be gone in a couple of days, I did what I had avoided for years—I went shopping. Since I"d refused her offer to join her going-away party, buying a small gift impressed at least me as appropriate. I had seen an attractive shop in one of the upscale areas of the District, and headed over before going home. Only after I had parked did I realize I had company. Tim McNamara pulled to the curb and called me over. I didn"t know what role he was playing. WITH ONLY A“Get in, Russ. We need to talk.” “About what?” “You. Get in.” “I"m going shopping. A Christmas present for Cindy. Before they close.” “This won"t take long. Just a couple trips around the block.” After a frustrated exhale, I slid into the passenger"s side and he pu

