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“Franco, are you strictly a whiskey man?” Kennedy asked.
“Balvenie twenty-one is a favorite. But I enjoy vodka too.”
The chef entered and placed the dishes on the table.
“Can I get you and your guest anything else?” Norman asked.
“Norman, for lunch tomorrow, prepare a vegan meal for Kennedy. Also, prepare at least one pasta dish for dinner daily.”
He bowed. “As you wish, sir.”
Norman glanced at Kennedy. “I hope the appetizers were to your liking.”
“They were. Thank you, Norman.”
“I’ll tell my assistant Kate you were pleased.”
“Yes, please do.” Kennedy grinned.
Norman vacated the room as Bonnie returned.
“Here’s your drink, Kennedy. Can I get either of you anything else?”
“No, have a good night, Bonnie,” I stated.
Kennedy waved. “Goodnight, Bonnie.”
My gaze lingered on Kennedy’s lips.
“I like her. How long has she worked for you?” she asked.
“I’ve known Bonnie since middle school. When I took my position four years ago, she volunteered to work for me. We’d gotten into our share of trouble when we were younger. She’s one of the few women I trust with my life.”
Kennedy loaded her plate with roasted potatoes, asparagus, and a buttered roll.
“Ms. Carter, tell me about yourself.”
“How do you know my last name?”
“Your driver’s license,” I replied.
“Oh, yeah. I forgot you haven’t returned my purse and backpack.”
“Your belongings will be in your room by the time you return.”
She nodded, then sipped her mixed drink.
“Let’s see. I sold drugs for years. Jail wasn’t really a factor since my people had the police in their pockets. My enemies often tried stealing my product. And at times tried to kill me. I’m done with that life. I moved to Portland to get a fresh start.”
“On your driver’s license, it says you're twenty-six years old. Are you studying for your master’s degree?”
“No, undergraduate.” Her smile disappeared. “The family business was all I was supposed to do for the rest of my life. I needed more.”
“Understandable. The crime life can be rough on anyone, especially those not accustomed to this life.”
“Franco, that’s so true.”
“Do what makes you happy. I’ve never sold drugs, but I participate in a significant amount of other illegal things. I have a standing arms deal with the United States government too,” I stated.
