“You’d damn well better!” Shera swears severely, relenting at last. “And I will be here instantly! Oh well. Take care of yourself, darling, and don’t let things get you down. Remember that we won, against all odds, and all thanks to you. Orosco is history and we’re still standing, even if our lovely club isn’t. Hooray for the good guys!”
This brings a genuine smile from me despite the worst ordeal of all still lying before me. Seeing this Shera is reassured. She at last allows me to exchange hugs and kisses with her before turning me over to equally solicitous Maurice, who is standing nearby waiting, as impeccably turned out as ever.
“Welcome home, Miss Dupree. It is sensational to have you back. Except for the replacement of certain perishables I think you’ll find everything exactly as
