CHAPTER FIVELindsey headed for Walnut Creek and the International Surety office after all. As he crossed the threshold he felt a wave of emotion sweep over him, a feeling of homecoming mixed with a sense of loss.
Ms. Wilbur was at her desk, the same as ever. She looked up and gave a glad cry. She came around her desk in a fluid motion and wrapped Lindsey in her arms. She planted a kiss on his cheek. She was a few years older than Lindsey’s mother.
He started to fend her off, then changed his mind and returned the kiss.
They separated, laughing.
“I thought you were too high and mighty to come and see us again, Bart!”
He shook his head. “I missed you. I’ll still be working out of the office. You’ll see me around.” He took her hands. “How’s it been?”
“You mean since Mr. Mueller took ove
