Page 52 of Valentines In The Presidential Suite

Brad shook his head. “We don’t suspect any particular client at this point. Nick knows I’m off the case, but that doesn’t exempt us from providing information to someone else. He could be angry about that. I’m very happy my security system has been upgraded at my house, and the partners have agreed to improve the security here at the office. Cameras would help us identify anyone doing this.”

“Do you think it’s wise for you to remain at your house?” Morgan asked.

“At some point, you must make a stand. Judges and lawyers across the country are facing more harassment than ever. We can’t appear to be weak. I’ll take my chances. I just don’t want anyone else to get hurt.”

Morgan sat back in her chair, looked up, and studied him, letting his words sink into her thoughts. “You’re right. We cannot let others cripple our good intentions.”

“This may not have anything to do with Nick Carelli,” said Brad. “I’m no longer part of the case, and I’ve been given clear instructions to stay away from it by my partners. This is something new for them, and they don’t like it.”

“I can understand why. Do you need me to do anything special for you?” she asked him.

“Just the usual. The court system typically operates in a more thorough manner than the Carelli case suggests. The pace is slower, the rules clear, the routine in place.” Brad gave her a steady look. “The law is the law, and I believe it will prevail.”

“When will the Carelli case be heard?” she asked.

“Sometime between Thanksgiving and Christmas,” he said, suddenly looking grim. “A difficult time for everyone.”

Trying to lighten the mood, Morgan said, “I’m so happy you and Simon will be part of my Thanksgiving this year.”

“I’m looking forward to it,” said Brad. “Now, I need to head to New York. I have a hearing that I have to attend.” He checked his watch. “I’ll call you on the way and give you a list of the projects I need you to work on.”

“In the meantime, I’m still doing some research on the available rehab facilities and their programs for one of your clients’ needs.”

“Thanks. I think that may be a solution for keeping her child out of foster care,” said Brad.

He disappeared into his office, grabbed his briefcase, and left.

Morgan let out a long sigh. Working with Brad was definitely not the boring work she’d done before, and though there was a lot to think about, she was happy to have made the change.

###

That night, she ate a quiet dinner with only Blue to keep her company. Without competition from the other dogs, he stayed close to her, placing a paw on her leg for attention whenever she stopped rubbing his ears, and finally leaving her side to bring a ball to her to throw.

“You are a very spoiled dog,” said Morgan, unable to be stern with such a cutie.

He barked and wagged his tail, making her laugh.

She fed him and took him outside for his nighttime outing. Even though it was dark outside, the spotlights from Ashley’s house gave them enough light to play in the fenced-in yard.

Ashley’s kids heard Blue barking and raced outside to see him.

Their mother was close behind and hurried over to Morgan.

As the kids threw a ball for Blue, Ashley spoke quietly to her. “The kids don’t know it, but Mark and I have arranged to get both a Lab puppy and another, a female Dachshund puppy from Caesar’s breeder. We’re picking both dogs up just before Christmas. It should be quite a spectacle.”

“Oh, I love Christmas surprises,” said Morgan. “They’ll be thrilled. And they’re good with Blue, so I’m sure they’ll be gentle with puppies.”

“It’s going to be a lot of work, but I know how important it is for kids to have pets,” said Ashley. “What’s new with you?”

“I’m busy at work, but I love it. It makes me feel satisfied to help with such important work for kids.” She smiled at Ashley. “Brad was glad to be invited to Thanksgiving dinner. I’ve already bought my ingredients for dessert. Pumpkin, apple, and pecan pies.”

Ashley hugged her. “You’re a doll to do that and to make the stuffing for the turkey. I’m not much of a cook, but I love to decorate the house for the holidays.”

“That’s why the holidays work so well with both of us involved. The office will be closed next Wednesday, giving me time to get everything done.”

“I’m glad you’re making plenty of desserts,” Ashley said, “because my mother-in-law’s sister has agreed to come for dinner. As you know, her sister is a lot of fun. I think Simon will get a kick out of her.”

“Simon is happy to be asked for dinner,” Morgan said. “It makes it more enjoyable. The more the merrier.”