For the next stretch of time, I devoted myself completely to the branch.
Ryan was extremely capable. He'd managed the newly established branch alone and kept everything in order. He also handled business dinners and social events with ease. He was handsome in a cool, restrained way, decisive in action, and mature and steady. The contrast made him especially compelling.
For several days in a row, I accompanied him to business events. At dinners, I took quite a few toasts on his behalf. After one event ended late at night, I walked with him along the street so the night breeze could help him sober up.
He slipped out of his dress shoes and leaned against the roadside railing, letting the wind clear his head. In a low, lazy voice, he hummed a soft tune. When the mood struck, he naturally to
