Monday morning, Alan’s gaze is drawn to the detectives’ usual table as soon as he enters the Brew but no one’s sitting there. Just as well—there’s hardly a queue at the counter, so he wouldn’t have an excuse to linger even if he did see Jim.
Come to think of it, though, the guy at the counter sort of looks like the detective from the back. Unless…
Alan steps out of line and moves closer. As the man’s profile comes into view, Alan’s heart soars. It is Jim. He can’t help but wonder if sharing a cuppa Friday inspired the detective to stop by the café this morning.
Maybe to see me? Is that too much to hope for?
Jim hasn’t noticed Alan yet; he’s digging in a hidden pocket inside his blazer, reaching for his wallet to pay the server. Before he can do so, Alan comes up beside him and hands ov
