The Empire State Cat’s Christmas Gift
Book Two
BY NIC TATANO

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HarperCollinsPublishers

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First published in Great Britain by HarperImpulse 2016

Copyright © Nic Tatano 2016

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Cover design by Holly Macdonald

Nic Tatano asserts the moral right to

be identified as the author of this work

A catalogue record for this book

is available from the British Library

This novel is entirely a work of fiction.

The names, characters and incidents portrayed in it are

the work of the author’s imagination. Any resemblance to

actual persons, living or dead, events or localities is

entirely coincidental.

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and Pan-American Copyright Conventions.

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written permission of HarperCollins.

Ebook Edition © November 2016 ISBN: 9780008200664

Version 2016-10-18

PRAISE FOR NIC TATANO’S DEBUT WING GIRL

‘One of the top 20 books of 2013’

I Heart … Chick Lit

‘E-book novel of the year’

Chick Lit Chloe

‘I truly adored this novel…One of my favourite books this

year, for sure.’

Chick Lit Reviews

‘The heroine is sassy, the dialogue is razor-sharp and the

romance is sweet. Well worth a read.’

Chick Lit Club

‘Fast and funny’

Wondrous Reads

For Gypsy, Pandora, Bella, Buttons, Snoopy, and J.R., my furry companions through life …

Table of Contents

Cover

Title Page

Copyright

Praise for Nic Tatano’s Debut Wing Girl

Dedication

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-Two

Chapter Twenty-Three

Chapter Twenty-Four

Chapter Twenty-Five

Chapter Twenty-Six

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Epilogue

Acknowledgements

Bonus Material

About the Author

Also by Nic Tatano

About HarperImpulse

About the Publisher

CHAPTER ONE

Socks the cat (full name: Socks Fifth Avenue) had endured an awful night. Fortunately, she had managed to awaken her person after the fire had started in the house. They’d gotten out seconds before lightning hit the large tree which fell and destroyed the bedroom. The storm was bad enough, but spending the night in the hotel with the constant slamming doors and voices from the next room had left her unnerved. The saving grace was that her person had lavished her with so much love and attention, thankful that Socks had saved their lives.

To make things worse, she was now riding in her pet carrier—which all cats loathe—but was hopefully on her way to more peaceful surroundings.

Tish McKenna entered her law office in the Empire State Building with a pet carrier in one hand while wheeling a large suitcase with the other. Her petite doe-eyed assistant, Shelley Downs, got up to greet her tall blonde boss with a hug. “Tish, thank God you’re okay. You could have been killed.”

Tish held up the pet carrier to eye level. “It’s all thanks to this little one. I didn’t even know the house was on fire until she woke me and about thirty seconds after we got out a tree fell and crushed the bedroom.” She turned and looked at her fur baby, a young black-and-white tuxedo cat with four white paws. “Someone is going to be treated really well for the rest of her eight lives.”

“Like you don’t already spoil her.” Shelley shoved her long chestnut hair behind her ears and poked her finger through the carrier grate. “Hey, Socks. You’re quite the little heroine. Much better than a smoke alarm.” The cat meowed and licked her finger. “So I guess you couldn’t leave her in the hotel.”

“No, all the noise from the other rooms freaked her out all night and you know that she’d escape when housekeeping came through.”

“So where are you gonna keep her?”

“In my office, for now.”

“Seriously, Tish? A cat in a law firm?”

“Look, it will be months before my house is repaired and I can’t leave her there with all the construction going on. So I’ll be with her during the day and we’ve got the law student working here in the evenings to keep her company. I already talked to him and he loves cats. She can stay in my office and I’ll see clients in the conference room for now. And I’m staying with Madison and Nick on the weekends so she’ll come home with me every Friday and back on Monday morning. She can’t get out of this office because the cleaning crew only works on Saturdays and she’ll be with me then.”

“Okay, but what if the landlord finds out you have a cat in the building? I would imagine that would be against the rules in your lease.”

“You forget I kept his ex-wife from cleaning him out a few years ago. So the guy owes me big time. I could keep a family of ring-tailed lemurs in here and he wouldn’t say a word.”

“Right, I forgot you were his lawyer. Hey, I just thought of something… the cat you named Socks Fifth Avenue actually gets to live on Fifth Avenue for a while.”

“Yep. Monday to Friday anyway.”

“Uh, one more thing. I have one obvious logistical question regarding something unpleasant as it applies to the care and feeding of cats. Specifically the care part.”

“Litter box goes in my storage closet.”

Shelley’s face tightened. “And who—”

“Don’t worry, Shelley, you don’t have to scoop the litter box. I’ve got one of those battery powered gadgets that scoops every time she uses it. It’s got some sensor so it knows when she leaves. All I have to do is refill the litter and occasionally empty the thing.”

“Damn, cats have it better than us.”

“In some ways. But a lot of cats aren’t so lucky and need a home. You should get one.”

“Yeah, I’ve been thinking about it. It would be nice to have someone to come home to.”

“Anyway, the automatic litter box is with her stuff in the suitcase.”

“Socks has her own suitcase?”

“Hey, she has her needs. Litter box, litter, food, dishes, toys, bed, it’s all in there. Luckily it was all in the part of the house that wasn’t damaged, so I went back in after they put the fire out and got her supplies. A cat can’t just leave home with the fur on her back, you know. What would the other cats think?”

“So, no car seat? Video games?”

“Stop it. Anyway, I’ve got to be in court in an hour in front of that new judge.”

“That poor witness. Facing you in a bad mood.”

“I can take out my frustrations. Anyway, if you can help me get Socks set up I’d appreciate it.”

Tish and Shelley headed into her office and closed the door, then let Socks out of the carrier. The cat slowly stepped out onto the plush red carpet and immediately began to explore her new surroundings.

Shelley rolled her dark eyes as she sat on the edge of the desk.

“What?” asked Tish.

“It just hit me. If anyone finds out about this, we’re going to be known as the cat lady law firm.”

“Two single women in their mid-thirties who share an office with a cat. Not exactly a stretch.”

“Speak for yourself, Tish.”

*

Spencer Capshaw and his partner Ariel Nix headed toward the courtroom on a reconnaissance mission.

The two thirty-five year old lawyers needed to check out the new judge in town, as they had an upcoming case on her docket. If a judge was one who didn’t play by the rules, or was a major pain, they needed to know in advance.

Spencer held the door for Ariel as they entered the crowded courtroom and took seats in the last row, already filled with a bunch of lawyers who’d obviously had the same idea. He tried to get comfortable on the ancient, hard wooden bench that was worse than a church pew, stretching out his lean five-foot-ten frame. “So, what did you dig up on this judge from your friends?”

“Not much you’re going to like, Spence. The term ballbuster did come up a lot.”

“So she’s really tough on the guys, huh?”

“That comment came from the women.”

He ran his hands through his dark, tousled hair. “Wonderful.”

“Oh, stop it. You always manage to charm even the crustiest female judge with that boy-next-door persona you’ve got going. You flash those big olive green eyes, give them the innocent look and it’s game over.” The tall, slender brunette crossed her legs and rocked a four inch red heel on her toe as she leaned back. Her hazel eyes focused on the front of the courtroom.

“Oh, like you don’t flirt with men on the jury.”

“I plead the fifth on the grounds you may be right. And that was just one juror.” He gave her a disbelieving look. “Okay, maybe two or three.”

“I think you’ve simply lost count.”

“All rise!” The bailiff’s voice echoed through the ancient courtroom. “Court is now in session. The honorable Rebecca Winston presiding.”

Conversation stopped as the judge entered, took her seat on the bench and looked at some paperwork through gold-rimmed bifocals as everyone in the room sat down. Judge Winston looked to be in her mid-forties, a slim, dark brunette with straight hair that curled under her chin.

A tall blonde attorney approached the bench. Spencer sat up straight as he locked in on her. Hair up, horn-rimmed glasses, ultra conservative blue suit with a knee-length skirt, pale silk blouse buttoned up to her neck. “Who is that?”

Ariel patted his hand. “Down, boy.”

Spencer figured what Ariel had heard about the judge was exaggerated, especially since the lawyers for both sides were women and nothing out of the ordinary had happened. Judge Winston appeared to be tough but fair, and ran a tight ship. By the book, followed the law and kept things moving. If she had any political leanings, they weren’t evident. His kind of judge. All he ever wanted was a fair trial from someone who didn’t have an agenda.

But what captured his attention was the performance of the blonde attorney as she cross-examined the current witness. The middle-aged man on the stand squirmed in his seat and kept mopping his brow, as her laser-sharp questions kept his flop sweat on a steady flow. Spencer leaned over and whispered in Ariel’s ear. “Damn, she’s amazing. This is like the legal version of waterboarding.”

“The witness looks like he’s getting a prostate exam with a yardstick.”

He crossed his legs as his face tightened. “Thank you for that lovely mental picture.”

The attorney continued to hammer the witness, barely giving him time to finish his answer before hitting him with another question. The man stammered as he started to give a long, ridiculous answer to her question.

Then she turned to the jury, her back to the judge, pulled a handkerchief out of her pocket, took off her glasses to clean them and gave the jury a world class eye roll.

They all smiled.

She finished cleaning her glasses as she turned back to the witness.

Spencer couldn’t help but admire her.

Ariel cocked her head at the attorney. “You catch that thing with the glasses and the look she gave to the jury? Pretty slick.”

“She’s got great eyes. I’ve never seen such a deep blue.”

“Oh for God’s sake, I was talking about the eye roll to the jury that the judge couldn’t see.”

“Yeah, that was a neat trick. She still has great eyes. You think she’s got colored contact lenses?”

“Duh, she’s wearing glasses, Sherlock.”

“Oh, right.”

“Geez, if you ever have to face her in court you won’t have a chance.”

The attorney finished up what could only be described as an inquisition of the witness and the judge looked at her watch. “I think this is a good stopping point,” said the judge. “We’ll recess for lunch and I want everyone back here at one-thirty sharp. And that does not mean one-thirty-one.”

The blonde attorney raised one finger. “Approach the bench before we go, your honor?”

“Make it quick, counselor. There’s a pastrami sandwich with my name on it in my chambers. Which I assume the bailiff remembered to order. And I hope he got one for himself.” The bailiff nodded and smiled as the crowd chuckled. The judge motioned for the attorney to come forward, put her hand over the microphone and leaned toward her. She listened for a minute, then nodded as the attorney went back to her desk. The judge looked up at the crowd. “It has been brought to my attention that there has been a good bit of distracting chatter from the back of the room. Apparently the last row in a courtroom is the same as the one in a classroom, filled with those hooligans who can’t keep quiet. Now I understand that since this is my first day there are a lot of attorneys here as you guys want to get a feel for the new sheriff in town. So let me say that if I hear so much as a whisper from a lawyer who is not involved in this case when we return from lunch, I will have no qualms about sending those who can’t shut the hell up for a mini-vacation in a rather uncomfortable cell. And speaking of cells, I’d better not hear any of those ring either.” She narrowed her eyes at the back row. “Do I make myself clear?”

The blonde attorney looked in Spencer’s direction. He turned and looked to both sides, as if searching for the culprit.

Ariel shook her head, wrote on her legal pad and slid it onto his lap.

Bus-ted.

Spencer handed his lunch menu to the waiter and turned to Ariel. “So, what did you think?”

“I thought the judge was very fair. I don’t think she was biased either way. If she has an agenda it will take a while for everyone to figure it out. And obviously she has no tolerance for people who disrupt her courtroom. I think she got a bad rap from the people I talked to. I wouldn’t have a problem with her.”

“Not the judge. What did you think about the attorney?”

“The short brunette? Eh, she was okay.”

“I meant the other one.” His eyes widened as he flashed a slight smile.

“I know you did. Ah, I knew she was your type.”

“I don’t have a type.”

“Oh, bull. She’s just like all the other women you’ve dated.”

“I’ve never been out with a blonde.”

Ariel shook her head. “Nothing to do with hair color, sweetie. When it comes to what gets your motor running, they all have the same common denominator.”

“Enlighten me, counselor.”

“Let’s see…she checks all the boxes for you. Conservative outfit, skirt to the knee, practical heels, strand of pearls the only jewelry, pure old-school class. The kind of woman who wouldn’t be caught dead in a bikini or miniskirt even though she might have a killer body. Not stunning but attractive in a classic way. What you always refer to as quietly beautiful. Strong and independent, obviously in control. And the big one that really turns you on, she’s obviously smart and spunky as hell. Kicks ass and takes no prisoners. You have to agree the woman owned the courtroom. What she did to that witness probably violated the Patriot Act. I can’t believe I’m saying this, but she was tougher on a witness than you are, and you’re ruthless.”

“I can’t believe I’m agreeing with you.”

“Anyway, did I just describe your perfect woman?”

“Okay, I admit I’m attracted to really smart women who are pretty but aren’t flashy. However, that’s a really broad brush.”

“Ah, but the thing that drives all guys nuts…hair up and glasses. You fantasize that once the hair comes down and the glasses come off, she’s a hellcat in bed.”

He couldn’t hold back a sly smile. “Hence the term, let your hair down. And I’ve found it to be true in most cases.”

“What about women who never wear their hair up, like me?”

“I plead the fifth on the grounds that I already love you. You’re the sister I never had.”

“Good answer, Mister. Oooh, I almost forgot. Added to all that, she’s got another quality you can’t resist.”

“What else?”

“That scratchy, lives-in-a-smoky-bar whiskey voice. Demi Moore meets Lorraine Bracco meets Angie Harmon. Hell, if she ever got disbarred she could get a job with a phone sex company.”

“Fine, I’ll give you that. Her voice was sexy as hell. Now can we get back to the case we have tomorrow? We’ve got a long night ahead of us already.”

“Sure. But this is a lot more fun.” Ariel flashed a grin as their lunch order arrived. She picked up her fork and stabbed at a piece of salad. “Oh, before I forget, I wanted to run something by you. I have a possible case coming up with a man who…well…is pretty much a horrible person.”

Spencer shrugged. “We represent a lot of people who are long way from being decent. Hey, unless he’s murdered someone, what’s the big deal?”

“Yeah, but this one—”

“Will the client’s checks bounce?”

“No, he has extremely deep pockets.”

“Well, then, I think that ends the discussion. We are in business to make money, after all.”

Ariel nodded. “Hmm, that we are…”

*

Tish finished her research around six just as law school intern Brian Stevens entered her office. She reached over to pet Socks, who had claimed the corner of her desk as her own for the last several hours. “Hi, Brian. Meet your new assistant.”

“Ah, this must be Socks.” The short, sandy-haired, third-year law student moved forward to pet the cat. “So, she actually saved your life, huh?”

“Yep. I could sleep through an atomic bomb. If she hadn’t woken me up I’d be taking a dirt nap because the smoke alarm didn’t go off. I owe her big time.”

“Well, I love cats and I’ll keep her company tonight. She’s in good hands.”

“Thanks, Brian, I appreciate it.” Tish pointed to the round table on the other side of her office. “I’ve left all the stuff for the upcoming case over there. If you could finish by the end of the week that would be great.”

“I’m on it and ahead of schedule.”

“You sure this won’t interfere with your studying for the bar?”

“I’m fine. Trust me, I know how to manage my time.”

“Great, but if you need study time just let me know. Oh, all the cat supplies are in the closet if she needs anything. I’ve already put out plenty of food and water, so you’re good to go in that department. But do give her a handful of treats before you go. That’s been her usual bedtime snack.”

He started to laugh. “Glad you don’t spoil her, Miss McKenna.”

“Hey, she deserves every bit of it. She’s got nine lives and saved the only one I’ve got.”

Three hours later Brian wrapped up his duties. He lifted Socks off his lap, as she had been there the entire time. “Okay, kitty, gotta go. Don’t mess with the paperwork.” He carried the cat to her bed under the desk and set her on it. She immediately curled up into a ball. “Night, Socks. See you tomorrow.”

Socks raised her head as soon as the man closed the door. With all the attention she’d had today, there hadn’t been enough free time to thoroughly explore her new surroundings. The room wasn’t nearly as interesting as the one in which she’d been raised. But at least it was quiet. After all the commotion last night, she needed a peaceful sleep.

But something captured her attention behind the bookcase, and being as curious as any other cat, she had to investigate. She easily fit between it and the wall and saw the open vent that was dimly lit, then heard a voice coming through it. Her ears perked up. It was not her person, but a male voice.

She decided to follow it and entered the vent.

A noise caught Spencer’s attention. He looked up from his notes and turned to Ariel. “You hear that?”

“Your stomach growling? Yeah. Let’s head out for dinner.”

“Not that. Something’s in the wall. Listen.” He cocked his head in the direction of the sound. “Aw, hell. Probably a damn rat. That’s all we need.”

She turned her head toward the bookcase. “Yeah. It’s coming from over there. Well, it is New York City. Though I wouldn’t expect rats in this building.”

Then they heard the meow and saw a cat emerge from behind the bookcase. “Well, I’ll be damned.” Spencer got up and crouched down next to the cat. “Where did you come from?” It meowed again and nuzzled his hand. Spencer noticed it had a red collar. “This isn’t a stray.”

Ariel got up and looked behind the bookcase. “Oh, I see what happened. It obviously came through the vent. They must have forgotten to put the covers back on when they did all the remodeling on this floor last month. And since the bookcases are built-in, the vents are gonna stay open.”

“I guess it’s somebody’s office cat.”

“Someone has an office cat in the Empire State Building?”

“Hey, why not?” He picked it up and looked at the collar, turning it all the way around to see if there was an ID tag. “There’s nothing to identify the owner. But obviously it’s gotta be someone on this floor.”

“Sounds right. Can’t imagine a cat can climb up or down in a steel vent.”

He looked at the cat. “You hungry, kitty?” It meowed.

Ariel headed out the door. “I’ve got some cans of tuna in the break room. And milk for coffee. I’ll go get it.”

Spencer sat down and put the cat on his lap, then started to stroke its soft fur. He was rewarded with a purr. “Y’know, an office cat is not a bad idea. So who do you belong to?”

Ariel returned with some food for the cat, putting a saucer of milk and some tuna in a dish on the floor. “See if she’ll eat something.”

Spencer put the cat near the food. It ate about half of the tuna, drank a little milk, then took off behind the bookcase. “Well, that was a quick visit. So much for trying to find her owner.”

“She must know her way around.”

“Maybe so. Guess I’ll pick up some cat food in case she drops by again.”

Ariel shook her head as she shot him a smile. “You crack me up.”

“What?”

“I know what you’re thinking.”

“You do, huh?”

“Now you want an office cat, don’t you?”

“Not terribly practical for a law firm, but if that one likes to hang out here I won’t complain. We always had cats when I was a kid, and to be honest I’ve been meaning to get a pet.”

“Well, don’t spoil her. You can’t get a reputation as the lawyer who stole someone’s cat. There are laws against that, you know.”

“What laws?”

“Catnapping.”

CHAPTER TWO

Tish saw that her three closest friends had already arrived at the restaurant. Normally they went out on the weekend, but in light of the situation with her house, Rory, A.J. and Madison insisted they get together for moral support on Tuesday evening. Tish couldn’t help but agree; being literally driven from her home in the middle of the night was beyond stressful. Even though no one had been hurt, living in Madison’s guest room on weekends for a few months and a Manhattan hotel during the week while her home was being repaired would be disorienting. Her home had been a second office with everything impeccably organized; now it was a water and smoke-damaged disaster. If she hadn’t had a hanging bag of a few outfits she’d just bought in her car, she would have had nothing to wear.

Of course, Tish had no choice but to count her blessings. She had adopted a cat who had literally saved her life.

Everyone got up to hug her as she arrived. “Thanks, guys. Really appreciate all your help.”

Madison, the tall redheaded network television reporter who had given her Socks, patted her on the shoulder as they all sat. “You’re good to go in our guest room. Nick’s got everything squared away. He took your clothes that survived to the cleaners and hopefully they can get the smoke out of them. I’ve got some outfits for you in my car, enough to get you through the rest of the week. Y’know, since the insurance company is going to buy you some clothes, you might consider jazzing up your wardrobe a bit.”

“Nice try. Anyway, your fiancé is a saint. I’m jealous. But I hate that I’m cramping your style moving into your love nest on weekends for a few months.”

“You’ll get used to Madison screaming,” said Rory, Madison’s best friend who lived across the street and worked at home as a copywriter. The slim brunette flashed a wicked grin.

“Yeah,” said A.J., the petite New York Italian gal who ran the family delicatessen. “So much for keeping the windows closed during sex to keep it a secret.”

Madison started to blush. “Stop it. Anyway, Tish, my network wants you and Socks sometime this weekend, probably on the Saturday morning show.”

“What for?”

“Cat saves owner’s life, film at eleven. It’s an incredible tale. Or tail, as the case may be. And you know the story of my litter of orphaned kittens refuses to die. The dominoes of their effect on people continue to tumble. They’re a bunch of furry good luck charms.”

“No argument here.”

“Besides, you can throw in a plug for the local shelter and talk about pets that need adopting.”

“Sure, I’ll do it.”

A.J. handed Tish a business card. “My cousin Angelo says he should have you back in your house around Christmas. He pulled some of his guys off another job and got the insurance company out there already. He said everything is covered and you get replacement value. Don’t worry, they won’t cut corners. Your house will actually be better than new. He’ll be getting in touch with you to pick out paint colors, flooring and that sort of stuff.”

“Thank God you’re related to a contractor. This means a lot, A.J. Thank you so much for getting him over so fast.”

Madison leaned back as she studied a menu. “So how’s the furry little lifesaver doing in her new weekday home?”

“Socks seemed to really like being in the office instead of at home by herself during the day. And my law intern is keeping her company in the evening. She already sleeps at night. You sure I can bring her home on the weekends?”

“Of course. You can’t leave her in the office and she’ll love playing with Bumper again. And my cat will be thrilled. You sure you don’t want to leave her with me full time?”

“She’d miss me too much.”

Rory rolled her eyes. “Wait for it…”

“Fine,” said Tish. “And I’d miss her too much.”

A young brunette waitress arrived at the table with a water jug and filled their glasses. She pulled an order pad from her apron. “Good evening, ladies. Can I start you off with something from the bar?”

Tish nodded. “Big bottle of bourbon. No glass.”

The waitress laughed. “I’m sorry, but we don’t allow drinking right from the bottle. Though I could wrap it in a brown paper bag and you could go out back.”

“Then a nice chilled bottle of Pinot Grigio with four glasses please.”

“Sure.” She wrote down the order. “Let me tell you about our specials this evening. Tonight our chef has prepared—”

“Hey! Waitress!” The man at a table in the middle of the room interrupted her, waving frantically while looking angry. He pointed at her. “You! Right now!”

The waitress turned and her face dropped. “Excuse me a minute. We have a problem customer at one of my tables and I need to deal with him.”

Spencer and Ariel stopped eating as the portly middle-aged bald guy at the next table was making a scene chewing out the young waitress. The eating in the entire restaurant had stopped, as everyone was watching the man.

“I ordered the steak well done, and it was medium! Can’t you people get anything right?”

The waitress was shaking a bit. “Sir, if you’d told me that when I brought it to you, I could have sent it back to the chef—”

“You should have checked it before you brought it out, you stupid bitch!”

Spencer threw down his napkin. “Okay, that’s it.” He stood up and approached the guy. “Hey, buddy, that’s enough.”

The man turned to him. “Why don’t you mind your own business. It’s my problem.”

“You just made it everyone’s business with your big mouth and rude behavior.” He pointed to the man’s empty plate. “And if you had such an issue with your steak, why did you wait till you ate the whole thing before complaining?”

“What difference does it make? It tasted awful. She couldn’t even take a simple order!”

“Obviously you just want a free meal.”

“I want what I ordered!”

“That doesn’t give you an excuse to talk to the young lady like that. You owe her an apology.”

“Like hell.”

Spencer turned to the waitress who now had her arms wrapped around her waist. She was pale and trembling. “How much is his check?”

“Thirty-eight dollars.”

Spencer pulled out his wallet and handed her a one-hundred dollar bill. “Keep the change.” He turned back to the man. “Now, since you got your free dinner, why don’t you get the hell out and let the rest of us eat in peace? And do everyone a favor. Don’t come back. Next time go buy a hot dog at Coney Island.” He tossed two dollars at the man. “Here, it’s on me.”

The man got up and stormed out to a round of applause.

The waitress put her hand over her chest and exhaled as Spencer sat down. “Sir, thank you so much for sticking up for me. And picking up the check. That was incredibly nice of you.”

“Not a problem.”

“You sure you don’t want change?”

“I think you earned a big tip for dealing with that idiot.”

“Well, thank you again. If you need anything, let me know.”

Ariel reached over and patted his hand as the waitress headed back to work. “My partner, legal shark by day, Boy Scout by night.”

“Just doing the right thing. He had no right to talk to her that way.”

“I know, I was giving you a compliment. While every woman wants to be treated like an equal, every woman wants a man who will stand up for her. I’m proud to have an old fashioned guy like you as a partner. And a friend.”

Tish wore a dreamy look as she stared at the man who had rescued the waitress. “Damn, that was some old fashioned chivalry over there. And he’s awfully cute.”

Madison nodded as she sipped her water. “Yeah. Too bad he’s sitting with some babe.”

Rory turned back to the menu. “And now we know the reason some babe is sitting with him. White knights are hard to find.”

A.J. shook her head. “Yep. The good ones are always taken.”

Madison playfully slapped her arm. “Hey, Nick wasn’t taken when I snagged him.”

Tish patted her hand. “He snagged you, sweetie. You swallowed the hook and practically jumped into the boat.”

“Okay, no argument here. But come to think of it, we don’t know if that woman is his girlfriend.”

The waitress returned with their wine. “Sorry about that, everyone. Our manager says drinks are on the house tonight.”

“Hey, not your fault,” said Tish. “You okay?”

“Just shaken up a bit. I think I’m the one who needs the big bottle of bourbon. Thank goodness for Mr. Capshaw taking charge of the situation.”

Madison cocked her head at the man. “You know the guy?”

“He’s one of our regulars. Very nice guy and really good tipper. And of course he just saved me from a jerk and getting stuck with the check, which I really couldn’t afford.”

Rory looked at the pretty brunette sitting across from the man. “Do you happen to know if the woman sitting with him is his wife or girlfriend?”

The waitress shrugged. “No clue. But if she isn’t, take a number. What woman wouldn’t want a guy like that?”

*

After a supportive dinner with her friends, Tish had a spring in her step the next morning as she headed into the office, but it vanished when she saw the worried look on her assistant’s face. “What’s wrong? Oh my God, is Socks okay?”

“She’s fine. And I already fed her.”

“Then why do you look like you just ate the cat food?”

Shelley handed her a newspaper. “Because we just lost our biggest and nicest client.”

Tish’s eyes grew wide as she saw the headline. “Oh my God! His company went belly up?”

“Apparently some of his employees embezzled a ton of money while driving the company into the ground. Dammit, I hate that it happened to such a good guy.”

“I know. But that was part of his problem. He was too damn trusting.” Tish scanned the article. “I told him he couldn’t be such an absentee owner. But he said he had good people running things. What a shame.”

“Anything we can do?”

“I’ll give him a call right now. Maybe I can get my friend in the DA’s office to help him recover the embezzled funds. Not sure what I can do about the company shutting down.”

“Damn, this has been the week from hell. First your house and now this.”

“Yeah, and with this new development my house is now on the back burner. I gotta make some rain, Shelley. He was responsible for more than fifty percent of our revenue. We’re gonna need some new clients.”

“Speaking of new clients, you’ve got one coming in shortly.”

“I know, but that’s a contingency. We have to win to get paid.”

“You usually win, Tish. Hell, you’re way over ninety percent.”

“Yeah, but right now we need some definite income. And that case is going to take a ton of time. Plus, it’s a David and Goliath case and I’m going to need a big friggin’ slingshot to win or even get a settlement. Damn, now I almost wish I hadn’t taken it.”

“You took it because you’ve got a good heart. You could always refer her—”

“I said almost. The poor woman was turned down by lawyers all over town and she’s really in a bind. I can’t do that to her. But if the case doesn’t pan out, well…”

“Don’t worry, we’ll be fine. You have too good of a reputation. Meanwhile, there’s something on your desk that demands your immediate attention.”

“What, we heard back from the judge on the Carson case?”

“No. Your cat is waiting for you.”

Tish headed into her office, finding Socks sitting on the corner of her desk. “I see you have permanently claimed that spot.” She reached out to pet the cat and was rewarded with a lick on her hand. Then she sat behind the desk and Socks immediately climbed in her lap. She picked up the phone as the cat looked up at her. “Okay, kitty, gotta find some clients to keep you in that high end cat food.”

*

“Do you think we have a chance? I mean, really? No one else wanted this case.” Tish noted the woman’s eyes were sad and desperate.

She had almost considered Shelley’s suggestion to refer the client to another law firm with which she had a great relationship, one that could handle a loss of both considerable time and money. But the moment the woman entered her office, shook hands and locked eyes, she knew she couldn’t abandon her.

Especially when the new client told her why time was of the essence.

She was dying.

A big settlement would get her the medical care to save her life.

If Tish lost the case, well…

Her friend Madison hadn’t abandoned helpless orphaned kittens, and that was how she’d ended up with a wonderful cat like Socks.

In much the same way, she couldn’t in good conscience abandon this client who was basically an orphan seeking a lawyer. Who would die without her help.

And right now, Tish needed to give the woman an injection of confidence because she couldn’t possibly look this defeated in a courtroom. The woman was forty but the stress she’d gone through made her look ten years older. Face drawn, eyes drooping, dark brown hair a ragged mess. Tish knew she’d be very attractive with a little attention and a smile. She leaned forward and nodded. “Cynthia, I think we have an excellent chance. And I want you to focus on that when we come face to face with the defendant. If you look defeated, you give them an advantage. Hold your head up high and always look like you’ve got the upper hand. Confidence is key.”

“I’ll do my best, Miss McKenna.”

“Tish, please.”

“Okay. Tish. I can’t thank you enough for taking me on a contingency. I’d been through six law firms and everyone wanted a huge retainer. I’m broke or I’d give you something. Maybe later this year—”

Tish smiled and waved it away. “Don’t worry about it. I didn’t become a lawyer just to make money. Sometimes you have to do the right thing, and in this case that means representing you. What was done to you was unconscionable.”

“You’re a good person, Miss McKenna. I could tell the minute I met you. And people say you’re an incredible lawyer. When I heard your nickname I was expecting…well…”

Tish laughed. “Well, that’s my name in the courtroom. I’m pretty much a softie when I’m off the clock. Anyway, I want you to stop worrying. You’re in good hands. And I have an excellent assistant to work on this case. Even my law intern is helping out.”

The woman finally smiled a bit. “Thank you. I can tell you really care. How long do you think this will take?”

“Well, that depends on the other side and who they hire. If they get the right attorney who doesn’t play games, we could be done by the holidays. And hopefully have something in your Christmas stocking.”

“That sounds good. I don’t want one of those cases that lingers on for years and years.”

“Don’t worry, this one’s pretty cut and dried. We might not even have to go to court if I can get a decent settlement offer. Would that interest you?”

“Depends on the offer, but I’ll listen to anything. And of course, defer to your advice.”

“Well, remember, I work for you. I can offer advice but any final decision will be yours. If something doesn’t feel right, tell me. Anyway, I’ll get things filed shortly and then we’ll see who we’re up against.”

“I know who we’re up against, and he has deep pockets.”

“I meant the lawyer. But I’m gonna pick the defendant’s pockets.”

*

Spencer’s eyes narrowed as tossed his pen on the stack of papers. “I can’t wait to get this guy on the stand and rip his throat out.”

Ariel reached across the desk and patted his hand. “Someone’s inner shark gets cranky when he doesn’t eat.”

“Sorry, I will not lose this case. But you’re right, I’m starving. You wanna go get some dinner or order in?”

Ariel pulled out her cell phone. “I’ll order some Chinese. If we go out to a restaurant we’ll get too relaxed and then we won’t get home till midnight. It’ll set us back two hours.”

“Then again if you get Chinese I’ll want a nap. Get something from the Italian place.” He reached under his desk, grabbed a bag, got up and moved to the bookcase, then pulled a bag of cat treats from the bag and shook it.

“What have you got there, cat food? What are you doing?”

“Playing Pavlov and the cat. Seeing if our furry friend wants to come visit.”

Ariel laughed. “You are too funny. Six hundred dollar an hour attorney trying to lure someone else’s cat through an air vent. I should take a picture of this and write it up for the law review.”

“The cat’s owner might sue us if you make it public.”

“For?”

“As you said, catnapping.” He shook the bag again, then stopped to listen. “I think I hear something.”

“Yeah, but it might be a rat.”

“If it is a rat, the cat will get it.”

Ariel looked up and sure enough, the tuxedo cat emerged from behind the bookcase. “No one would believe this.”

Spencer shook some treats into his hand and held it out. The cat quickly gobbled them up, then nuzzled his arm. “Hey there kitty, how was your day? You want a few more?”

“Y’know, that cat is going to get fat enjoying the smorgasbord between you and her owner, who has no idea someone else is feeding her.”

“I’m just giving her a few treats, that’s all.”

“Right, that’s how it starts.” She noted the pure joy in his face as he fed the cat. “And I cannot believe you’re actually sacrificing part of a billable hour to spend time with a cat.”

“It’s just a little while.”

Ariel looked at the clock and leaned back in her chair. “Spence, speaking of time, what the hell are we doing here still working after nine o’clock?”

“We’ve got a lot to do.”

“Not what I meant. We don’t need to kill ourselves anymore. And frankly, I’m sick of eating dinner out of a Styrofoam container or a pizza box at my desk. Listen to me for a minute. Look, you left the District Attorney’s office and I quit the pro bono world of Legal Aid to start this firm so you could make enough to take care of your father. But you got him the expensive medical care, he’s cured, you even bought him a house, he’s retired and happy… I mean, we make a ton of money working normal hours. Why are you still in that mindset that we have to take every client who walks in the door and need every dollar we can possibly make?”

“Because it could happen again.”

“Your dad is fine and you got him the best health insurance money could buy. And the doctor told you his illness was a one-in-ten-million thing.”

“One of us could get sick.”

“And we’re both covered by the same insurance. Besides, I’d always take care of you and you’d do the same for me.” She sat back and looked at him. “Have you forgotten why you wanted to be a lawyer and why we took the first jobs that we did?”

He slowly nodded but didn’t respond as he kept petting the cat.

“Y’know, Spence, that cat makes you look like your old self.”

“Huh?”

“Relaxed and happy. You’ve got that same look you used to have when you helped the good guys win at the DA’s office. Can you honestly say the people we’re representing in this case are the good guys? Would you even want to be in the same room with them if they weren’t clients?”

“Not really. To be honest, I can’t stand them personally.”

“Hell, I feel like I need a shower every time they come by. Spence, this kind of work is making us a lot of money, but we’re not really making the world a better place. And I know that’s why you became a lawyer.”

He looked back at the cat. “I guess I’ve kinda gotten away from what I used to believe.”

“You still believe it. Money, and the people you help with it, is just clouding your memory.” She pointed at the cat. “While your furry friend there is a perfect example of what makes you happy. Yesterday you said you’ve been meaning to get a pet. That means taking the time to be with it. Time away from this office. You can’t just get a cat and leave it alone in your apartment all day. When you adopt a pet you make a commitment to be part of its life. It’s not an accessory. It’s a living creature that needs love and attention. And if we don’t slow down you won’t have the time. But if we do then you’ll be able to enjoy the unconditional love of a cat.”

He turned to look at her. “I’m sorry, Ariel, but once you go through something like my dad’s situation—”

“I know and I understand. You’re terrified it could happen again. But you can’t go through life worried about what might lie ahead. Take some time to smell the roses. Or play with a cat. You make a lot of money, so it’s time you started enjoying it. Even your dad says you work too hard. Hell, you haven’t taken a vacation in three years.”

He exhaled and nodded a bit as he scratched the cat’s head. “I guess we could…scale things back.”

“Good. Let’s start by not taking any more clients and that will take things off our plate by attrition.”

“Sure. No new clients.”

“And even better…let’s send a few clients to some other firms and add a few pro bono cases to replace them. You know that helping desperate people is what makes you happiest, so let’s get back to that a little.”

“You’re right, Ariel.”

“Meanwhile, the hell with ordering in. Let’s go to dinner, relax, have some wine, and then actually go home. Maybe once we clear some of these cases we might be able to eat dinner before the sun goes down instead of like a bunch of vampires.” She pointed at the cat. “Meanwhile, you gonna call the little furball Kitty?”

“Well, there’s no name on her collar. I’ll come up with something. I guess we need to find out if it’s a boy cat or a girl cat. Do you know how to tell?”

Ariel folded her arms. “Do I look like a veterinarian to you?”

Spencer moved back to his laptop and did a search. “Hang on a minute. Okay, here we go. How to sex a cat.”

“I hope you don’t get arrested. If the Feds look at your search history and see that, God knows what they’ll think.”

Spencer chuckled and continued reading. “It says to look directly under the tail. If it looks like a colon, it’s a boy. Upside down exclamation point, it’s a girl.”

“Well, I’m not doing this punctuation search of a cat’s nether regions. Knock yourself out.”

He picked up the cat and took a look. “Our guest is a young lady.”

“Well, you do need a nice girl on your lap.”

“Very funny.”

“Speaking of which, you want me to track down the name of that lawyer with the great eyes who turned your head? I mean, if you think you can sacrifice the billable hours in order to actually go on a date with her and have a social life.”

He offered a slight smile. “Okay, okay, you’ve made your point. But yeah, it would definitely be worth it.”

CHAPTER THREE

By Friday morning, cabin fever, or rather hotel room fever, had set in. Tish hated living out of a suitcase and couldn’t wait to get to Madison’s house for the weekend. Her friend had offered her the chance to stay there all the time, but the commute would take too many valuable hours away, especially in light of her lost client. She needed every minute to dredge up new business and work on her big case if she was to get her law practice back on solid ground. The only good thing about living in a hotel was that it was very close to her office. She determined the only way to make the next few months livable was to spend as little time in the hotel as possible.

The early morning jog along the river had brightened her spirits. She had fallen out of an exercise routine and though she had maintained her one hundred and forty pounds on her five-eight frame, she had gotten a bit soft and out of shape sitting at a desk or in a courtroom all day. Time to get toned again and getting away from the hotel was a good incentive. Besides, it was a pretty fall morning, sunny and unseasonably warm. She finished her run, out of breath and soaked with sweat, hair matted to her face. She was parched as she spotted the soda cart in front of the hotel. She made her way over to get a cool drink, finding herself behind a man in a suit who was talking on a cell phone.

The burly, fiftyish guy with salt-and-pepper hair operating the cart handed a cup of coffee to the man as she moved forward. He gave her a warm smile. “Can I help you, young lady?”

“Thank you for calling me young.”

“No charge for compliments.”

“You got a cold club soda, or sparkling water?”

“Sure.” He reached into the cooler, pulled out a can and handed it to her. “Dollar.”

She reached into her pocket. Empty. “Damn it. I forgot some money. I’m in the hotel, I’ll be right back.”

The man in the suit apparently overheard. “Hang on a minute.” He put the phone against his chest, reached in his pocket and handed the guy a dollar bill. “I got it.”

She turned to face him. “Thank you, that’s very kind of you—”

And then it hit her.

Her eyes went wide as she looked into the face of the white knight from the restaurant.

She had called him awfully cute, but up close he was beyond cute.

And here she was looking like absolute crap in the paint covered sweatpants and old t-shirt she kept in her car.

“No problem,” he said, flashing her a smile. “Excuse me.” He turned away and went back to his phone call as he looked at his watch. “I’m back. Anyway, I’ll see you Saturday night but I gotta go.” He started to walk away. “Love you too.”

Tish shook her head. “Well, damn. Can this week get any worse?”

The soda cart guy studied her face. “Something wrong, Miss?”

“My luck just needs to change, that’s all.”

*

Spencer waited until Ariel left the office for a deposition. She’d be gone an hour or so, more than enough time for him to follow through on her idea.

Finding out the identity of the lawyer who had seriously kicked ass in the courtroom the other day. Ariel was right about the woman being his type. Intelligence trumped everything with him, and that woman was off-the-charts brilliant. Her combination of street smarts and knowledge of the law was impressive. Toss in some New York City spunk and her appeal skyrocketed.

And she was quietly beautiful with those spectacular eyes.

He logged into the New York City justice system database and called up the docket for the new judge, then clicked on the case that had been scheduled for her first morning.

A quick read reminded him there was a female attorney for both the plaintiff and the defendant. One of the names was somehow familiar. “Where the hell do I know that from?” He paused a minute, but couldn’t place it.

He opened another window on the laptop and logged into the New York Bar Association website, then typed in the name of the defendant’s lawyer, Jolene Davis.

He drummed his fingers on the desk as he waited for her bio to load. Then shook his head as the screen featured a photo of a brunette in her fifties. “Nope, not her. Gotta be the other one.” He typed in “Tish McKenna” and waited.

There she was.

His pulse quickened a bit as he started to read her bio—

Which stopped him dead in his tracks. His jaw dropped as he saw the name of the law school and the year she’d graduated.

“You gotta be kidding me. She was in my class? How the hell did I miss someone like that?”

Because you were young and stupid. And into flashy bimbos back then like most men of that age.

He simply couldn’t remember her at all. Next stop, the website for his law school’s alumni association. He pulled up the photo of the graduating class, read the caption to find the name and her place in the photo. When he saw her face he instantly remembered the woman.

“Oh.” His eyes narrowed as his jaw and fists clenched. “Her.”

There she was, middle of the picture in a cap and gown standing next to the Dean of the law school. She was the valedictorian, her grades so far ahead of the other students it wasn’t even close. The one person who had kept him in second place. Known back then as Mrs. Spock, nicknamed after the Star Trek character who had no emotions and was driven by pure logic. She had been all business, all the time. Never socialized with any of the other students. Never smiled, cracked a joke or made any comment in class regarding anything other than the law. Didn’t go to any of the parties. As far as anyone knew, she never dated. It was like having a nun as a classmate. She sat in the first row, her hand always shooting up like a rocket a nanosecond after the professor asked a question. Answers always perfect. Able to cite obscure legal precedents in a single bound. The woman was a walking law library who got a perfect score on every single exam.

Everyone had hated her. Part jealousy, part lack of personality.

Okay, mostly jealousy.

He’d admired her performance in the classroom and actually tried to strike up a conversation with her in the law library during his first year, just to be nice since he knew she hadn’t made any friends. He sat down across from her and slid a cup of coffee next to her book. She’d told him, “No offense, and don’t take this the wrong way, but I prefer to study alone.” She’d picked up her books and moved to another table, leaving him with two cups of java. She was the most driven woman he’d ever seen.

Her.

But the graduation photo didn’t remotely look like the woman he’d seen in the courtroom.

The law student with the long, stringy blonde hair who had always looked like an unmade bed in cargo pants and bulky sweatshirts had blossomed like the proverbial ugly duckling into a swan.

“Okay, where is she now?”

Spencer did a search for her firm and his eyes bugged out.

“She’s in this building? On this floor? You gotta be kidding me!”

He stared at the photo on her website, the same woman he’d seen in the courtroom.

Actually smiling a bit.

The website was nothing fancy, pure business. No surprise there. She apparently ran a one-person firm. No surprise there either, as he couldn’t imagine anyone wanting to work with her and the attitude that came with it.

Back to the justice system website for a search of her cases. “Let’s see what kind of clients she likes.”

The list was impressive. Tish McKenna obviously wasn’t in it for the money—he used to be the same. All her clients seemed to be on the side of good. Lots of pro bono work for charities. A few high profile cases he remembered.

And she won almost every time. Just like law school.

“Bus-ted! Again!”

He swung his chair around and saw Ariel smiling at him. “What happened to your deposition?”

“Canceled. Much to your dismay.” She pointed at the laptop. “Ah, stalking the classy attorney, I see.”

His face immediately flushed. “I was just curious since, uh, you know, you said we should hire her.”

“Oh, gimme a break, Spence, you’ve got a thing for her. We’ve been friends too long for me to miss the signals. Those glasses came off and it was game over. If we’d stayed in the courtroom any longer you would have needed a drool cup.” She pulled up a chair and sat next to him. “So, what’d you find out about the mystery woman?”

“You’re not going to believe this, but we were in the same class at law school.”

“You gotta be kidding.”

“Nope.”

“Let me get this straight…you’re hot for this woman and you spent three years in law school with her? Why didn’t you go after her then?”

“She wasn’t exactly the same person.” He clicked on the laptop and brought up the graduation photo, then pointed at the woman.

“That’s the lawyer we saw in the courtroom? Damn, I want some of what she’s drinking. Talk about getting better looking with age.”

He patted Ariel’s hand. “Just like you.”

“Awww, you’re such a sweetie. I really do have you trained and ready for a wife.” Ariel leaned forward and pointed at the photo. “And apparently she’s not the only one who gets more attractive. Is that really you?”

“Yep.”

“Doesn’t even look like the same person. But could you not afford a razor? That is one sorry looking beard. You look like you’re trying out for Occupy Wall Street.”

“Yeah, it seemed like a good idea at the time. I got rid of it right after graduation. My adviser said it wasn’t good for job interviews.”

“Anyway, back to your infatuation with the young lady who has the great eyes. May I remind you about the last time you dated a lawyer.”

“I would rather you didn’t. I’ve tried very hard to forget her.”

“You’re not the only one. Dinner with you two was like a trip to the Supreme Court. All you did was argue, and half the time it was over what to order from the menu.”

“That doesn’t mean all lawyers are like her. Thank God.”

“Well, tread carefully. So, what was Miss Spectacular Eyes like back then?”

“She wasn’t friends with anyone. I tried being nice to her once in the law library. Brought her a cup of coffee. She picked up her books and walked away. Totally focused on school. Zero personality. Remember the woman I told you about who beat me for valedictorian?”

“That’s the woman who kept you in second place?”

“Yep. And it wasn’t even close. Then she gets the number one score on the bar exam for the entire state of New York. Smartest person I’ve ever met.”

“Which, when you add it to the features she already has, makes you want her even more.”

“Hey, I like brilliant women. That’s why you and I get along so well.”

“You’re just full of compliments today. Of course if she still has zero personality the point is moot.”

“Very true. But she didn’t show that kind of spunk in law school when we had mock court. She was more like an android. Since then she’s developed an attitude.”

“Honey, we all do as we get older.”

“Oh, one more thing.” He pointed at the monitor. “Check out the address of her firm.”

Ariel’s jaw slightly dropped. “She’s down the hall?”

“Yep. And I’ve never run into her. I’d remember a woman like that.”

“Well, we’ve only been in this building for a year. So, you gonna walk down to her office and say hello?”

“Are you out of your mind?”

“Why not? You’ve got a great excuse. You saw her in court, and we could use another lawyer for the firm to take things off our plate. Go pay her a visit, tell her she impressed the hell out of you and see if she might be interested in joining us. Even better, ask her to lunch but call it a job interview.”

“Yeah, like that situation couldn’t blow up in my face. Dating someone I work with.”

“You have a point. Hey, wait a minute.”

“What?”

“Since you two went to the same school, I’ve got an idea how you can meet her.”

*

Tish tore into her plate of ziti and meatballs while Socks and Bumper were busy batting a ball of aluminum foil around the living room. “Madison, I cannot tell you how great it feels not to eat in a restaurant or be in a hotel room after work.” She looked at her plate. “Oh my God, this is fantastic. Did you make this?”

Rory rolled her eyes. “Get real. You know her specialty of the house is burnt toast.”

“Nick cooks for her every night,” said A.J. “She’s one step away from being a kept woman.”

Tish took a bite of a meatball and washed it down with some wine. “Damn, Madison, you’re gonna be three hundred pounds by your first anniversary.”

“Trust me, they work it off,” cracked A.J.

Madison slapped her on the shoulder. “A.J.!”

“Hell, Madison,” said Rory. “We all know you can’t keep your hands off him.”

Madison blushed. “Fine. We have an…active lifestyle.”

Tish laughed. “Yeah, you hit your target heart rate without leaving the bedroom. Thank God he’s not around to hear this. Where is your darling fiancé anyway?”

“Poker game with the guys from his precinct.”

“Ah.” Tish dabbed her mouth with a napkin. “Speaking of men, I, uh, ran into our white knight from the restaurant.”

Conversation stopped. Madison leaned forward. “Really. Do tell.”

“Well, I went for a run before going to work and on my way back to the hotel I stopped at a soda cart to get a drink. He was there talking on his cell phone. Anyway, I go to pay for the soda and realized I’d forgotten to bring some cash. He notices, stops talking, pulls out a dollar and pays for it.”

Rory locked eyes with her. “And…then what happened?”

“I thanked him, he went back to his phone call and walked away.”

A.J. frantically waved her hands. “Whoa, hang on. You just let him walk away?”

“Well, for one, I was soaked with sweat and looked like crap wearing some old clothes I keep in the trunk of my car and he’s in a thousand dollar suit. Then I hear him on the phone say, ‘I’ll see you Saturday night, love you too.’” Her face dropped. “So you were probably right about that babe he was with in the restaurant. He’s obviously taken and the woman he was with was stunning.”

Madison shrugged. “He could have been talking to his mother.”

Tish shook her head. “Oh, come on. What single guy goes out with his mother on a Saturday night?”

“Could be a sister,” said Rory. “Or a close platonic female friend. Or maybe he was going to a party.”

“Stop it,” said Tish. “Guys like that always have someone.” She leaned forward and rested her chin in her hand. “But I tell ya, that guy had the most spectacular olive green eyes I’ve ever seen. If you thought he was cute from across the restaurant, you should have seen him up close. This great thick hair and he filled out a suit like a model. A real boy next door look, on the line between cute and handsome. The kind of guy you want to take home to meet your parents. And you know your mother will fall in love with him.”

Madison stopped eating, pointed her fork at Tish and talked through a mouthful of pasta. “You. Are. Smitten.”

Tish’s face tightened as she sat up straight. “Pffft. I don’t get smitten.”

Rory laughed. “Yeah, she’s got that dreamy look she had freshman year over that guy in the dorm. Haven’t seen it since, but it’s back. Schoolgirl crush. Definitely smitten.”

“I am not…smitten! And this is not a simple crush. I don’t even know the guy.”

A.J. patted her on the shoulder. “It’s okay, sweetie. You’re not on the witness stand. Just admit you’re attracted to the guy and wanna jump his bones.”

Tish waved her hand in disgust. “Pffft. Like it will make any difference. The odds of running into him again…and of him being unattached…that’s a wild daily double with some pretty long odds.”

“Serendipity happens,” said Rory. “But sometimes you gotta give it a little help. Look at Madison and Nick. I mean, if their ending up together wasn’t a wild turn of events…well, you still have hope.”

“What do you mean, give it a little help?”

“Tell you what, next time we all go out to eat we’ll hit that restaurant again. The waitress said he was a regular. If he’s there we’ll ask to get seated next to him. At least if that woman is with him we can eavesdrop and see what the story is and if she’s his significant other.”

Madison nodded. “And you should go jogging at the same time on the same route. If you ran into him near your hotel and he was in a suit, chances are he works in the neighborhood. He’s not going to walk ten blocks to get coffee.”

“So, what, I just run up to the guy and hit on him?”

“Geez, for someone ruled by logic you sure miss the obvious,” said Rory. “You offer to pay him back for the soda. Then you buy him a cup of coffee. Only make sure you don’t look like crap this time.”

“Pretty hard to do after I run two miles.”

Madison rolled her eyes. “Duh. Again, missing the obvious. You stop at the drink cart before you run.”

Tish shook her head and sipped her wine. “Wow, the things a girl has to do to get a date…”

*

Madison entered the guest room just as Tish pulled back the covers. “Nick and I are going to turn in. So, you need anything?”

“I’m good.” Tish gave her a strong hug. “Can’t thank you enough for this. Really nice of you, though I feel like I’m putting you out.”

“Hey, what are friends for? By the way, hope you didn’t mind us yankin’ your chain on the smitten thing. But, to be honest, you’ve got that look.”

Tish shrugged as she sat on the corner of the bed. “I guess it’s been so long since I had a decent boyfriend it shows.”

“Yeah, your choices haven’t always been the best. When’s the last time you dated a guy more than once?”

“Probably three years ago. I dunno, Madison, I guess I’ve reached the point where I can tell right away. I’ve become an expert on spotting red flags after those poor choices you referred to. Subconsciously I guess I’d given up.”

“You’ve been like me, too obsessed with a career to take time to smell the roses.” Madison slid next to her and patted her hand. “Well, when you least expect it, the right guy will show up in your life. I mean, look how I met Nick.”

“True. Talk about serendipity. You guys had it in spades.”

“Well, maybe it’s your turn. You certainly had enough bad luck this week. Things can only get better.”

Just as she said that, Socks jumped onto the bed and started kneading the comforter with her front paws. “At least I have someone who wants to sleep with me on a Friday night.”

“Oh, stop it. So why all the interest in a guy all of a sudden?”

“I dunno. I guess I see you and Nick, how happy you two are, how much he’s changed you in a good way…how this house has turned into a home. I’m jealous of what you have and lately I want it for myself.”

“Yeah, he has made me a better person. And a very different person. Of course, the kittens got the ball rolling on that.”

“Socks seems to be doing the same for me. I look at you and how you used to be so obsessed with your work and now you balance your job and your love life so well. You’ve got it all. All I’ve got is a career. It’s all I’ve ever had.”

“You have good friends, Tish.”

“I didn’t mean it that way. Now I want it all too. Maybe I need someone to show me there’s more to life than a law practice, y’know? And since the fire I’ve been thinking about where I live. It’s not really a home, but just a place where I sleep and work on my cases. It’s really been no more than a second office. You two have made a real nest here.”

Madison wrapped one arm around her. “Yeah, I must admit life is a lot better now that I take time to enjoy the little things. But don’t worry. The fact that you realize there’s more to life than a career is a big step. Actually, you already took the first step.”

“Huh?”

Madison reached over to pet Socks. “You adopted a cat. You’ve already started making yourself a home. Remember, a home without a cat is just a house.” She stood up. “Anyway, get some rest, we gotta get up early since you and Socks are on the Saturday morning show.”

CHAPTER FOUR

Tish couldn’t help but smile as she held Socks while the Saturday morning show anchor began to interview her. “Today we’re joined live from Staten Island by Tish McKenna and her cat Socks to share an amazing story. Tish, welcome to the show. So tell us why you’re talking with us this morning.”

She held up the cat. “Because of this little fur baby. Earlier this week my house was struck by lightning and caught fire. The smoke alarm never went off. I’m a very heavy sleeper but Socks obviously knew something was wrong. She jumped on me and woke me up. Once I realized the house was on fire I grabbed her and headed out the door. And about thirty seconds later the storm knocked over a huge tree that crushed my bedroom. Without my cat waking me up I’d be dead from the fire, the tree or both.”

“That’s an incredible story,” said the anchor. “Now our viewers have met you and Socks before as the cat is from reporter Madison Shaw’s famous litter of orphaned kittens. Can you tell us why you chose this particular cat to adopt?”

“I needed a smoke alarm.” She saw the anchor laugh in the monitor. “No, seriously, she’s a sweet cat and since I’m kind of a formal person and Socks looks like she’s wearing a tuxedo, I thought we were a good match. But actually, she chose me rather than the other way around. A cat chooses its person, you know. Humans really have no say in the matter.”

“I didn’t know that about cats. And I assume she has been rewarded for her heroism.”

“Oh, she’ll never be without her favorite cat treats. And she absolutely goes wild over salmon. I have to share it with her whenever I have it for dinner.”

“Is Socks your first cat?”

“The first in several years. We had cats when I was a kid but I haven’t had a pet since I got out of college. I’d forgotten how much I enjoyed having one around and this cat is a wonderful companion since I live alone.”

“We all know how the experience taking care of the kittens changed Madison, so what has sharing your life with a cat done for you?”

“Well, it’s very special getting unconditional love from an animal. And cats are very perceptive creatures. This one seems to know when I’m down, and to be honest this has been a very stressful week. It’s been great having her to help me get through this ordeal. She seems to know that I’m the one needing extra attention.” Tish smiled lovingly as Socks nuzzled her hand and purred.

*

Spencer was half asleep as he carried his coffee and the morning paper to the den. He plopped down in a reclining chair, placed his coffee on the end table and unfolded the paper in his lap, then turned on the television. He was bleary-eyed and barely paying attention as the screen cleared, revealing a woman holding a cat. The bottom of the screen read Cat Saves Owner’s Life From Fire.

“And remember, a home without a cat is just a house,” said the woman. “So go to a shelter and adopt one today.”

“Words to live by from a cat owner,” said the anchor, as the story ended.

Spencer began to nod, his thoughts going to the little cat that had visited him in his office. He realized he missed seeing the kitty on the weekend. “Yeah, I need to get a cat once things slow down. It’s too damn quiet around here.”

He turned back to his newspaper, not having noticed anything in particular about the cat on television or the owner.

*

Spencer was greeted by several looks of surprise as he walked into the annual law school cocktail party on Saturday night.

“Whoa, look who’s here!” His old study buddy Jim Hartselle quickly moved in his direction, hand extended.

Spencer shook his hand. “Hey, Jim, how’ve you been?”

The tall, lanky lawyer nodded. “Doing well. Still working for the Governor in Albany and fighting politicians at every turn. Not wild about the upstate winters which never seem to end but it’s a cool job. Wow, I never expected to see you here. Is this the first time you’ve made it to one of these?”

“Yep. Figured I’d check on you and some of the others.”

“Well, good to see you after all these years. So what are you doing?”

“I’m partner in a two-person firm in Manhattan. Things are going very well.”

“Good to hear. I’m in town from time to time so we’ll have to get together for lunch.”

“Sounds good.” Spencer looked around. “So who’s here from our old gang?”

“Most of the midnight oil study group. Denise, Frank, Carrie. They’re over at the bar. C’mon. I know they’d love to see you.”

Spencer kept looking around the room as the group shared stories at a table but he didn’t see Tish McKenna. “Hey, does our class valedictorian ever show up at these things?”

Everyone laughed as Jim shook his head. “Seriously, Spence? Mrs. Spock? She had no friends in school, why would she ever come to a reunion? Who would she reunite with? A law book?”

He shrugged. “Y’know, people change.”

“Who cares? And not sure she could change her personality since you need one to start with,” said Denise, a corporate attorney. “I mean, talk about a cold fish. I invited her for lunch once and she blew me off. Said she couldn’t spare the time and had to study. Maybe that’s why she was valedictorian. Personally I’d rather have friends than that designation.”

“Wonder what ever happened to her,” said Frank.

“I saw her in court the other day,” said Spencer. “The woman was amazing. She absolutely destroyed a witness. By the way, you wouldn’t even recognize her. Looks very professional now. I was shocked when I found out she was that frumpy girl in our class.”

“Someone in my firm went up against her awhile back,” said Denise. “She wiped the floor with him.”

Carrie nodded. “I had a trial against her last year. I thought my case was a slam dunk but the woman kicked my ass. I mean, I’ll be honest, I didn’t know what hit me, and I was well prepared. She’s a damn chess player. It was like she was three steps ahead of me the whole time. Cited a whole bunch of obscure cases and I found myself painted into a corner. Oh, she’s no longer Mrs. Spock. She’s got a new nickname around the courthouse.”

“What’s that?” asked Spencer.

“Jaws.”

“Why Jaws?”

“Because a tough lawyer is a shark and she’s the deadliest shark in the ocean. Just like in the movie. The bailiff said when she walks into the courtroom you can almost hear the theme music.”

*

Tish actually felt like some sort of stalker, but her friends had insisted she at least try to run into the cute white knight. But she had to know if the guy was attached. Men like that didn’t grow on trees.

She decided to look her best without going overboard. While she wouldn’t go so far as to put on makeup to go running, she did at least pick up a new pair of sweats, a cute red sweatshirt with the hotel logo and a Mets baseball cap. Bright sunshine and a cool breeze greeted her as she headed out of the hotel lobby on Tuesday morning, early enough that she could hang around for a while if he was there. She spotted the drink cart across the street and headed for it.

No white knight in sight.

Still, she might be able to find out who he was or if he was a regular.

The guy running the cart looked up and smiled as she approached. “Morning, young lady, what can I get for you?”

“Some orange juice, please.”

He handed her a container and she paid for it. “Hey, by any chance do you remember me from last week?”

He studied her face and smiled. “Though I am a happily married man I’m not dead. I do tend to remember the pretty women. You’re the one who forgot her cash.”

“Right. And there was a guy in an expensive suit who paid for it. Dark tousled hair, olive green eyes, slender, mid-thirties. You know who he is?”

“I do. He stops by just about every morning for coffee.”

“Ah. Well, I was hoping to pay him back.”

“I don’t think he’s the type to miss a dollar. But I’ll be happy to pass it on if you like.”

“I was hoping to thank him personally.”

“What, you don’t trust me with a buck?”

“No, it’s not that. I, uh…”

He smiled and nodded. “I see what’s going on here.”

“Nothing’s going on. I just want to say thank you in person—”

“Young lady, I may look like a guy who runs a soda cart, but I’m a hopeless romantic. If you’re interested in meeting him, just say so.”

“Why do you think I’m interested?”

“The way you described him. Very detailed. And you got this dreamy look.”

She shook her head. Busted. “Fine, I’m interested. Nice guys don’t grow on trees and I actually saw him doing a good deed in a restaurant. So what’s he like?”

“Extra cream, two sugars.”

“Very funny. I meant what is he like as a person? What can you tell me besides how he takes his coffee?”

“Sorry, I couldn’t resist. Like I said, he’s a regular. Name’s Spencer but likes to be called Spence. He works on this block, and he’s a helluva tipper.”

“You get tips running a soda cart?”

“Only from him. He told me his dad did this for years and he knows how hard I work. Every time he buys a dollar-fifty cup of coffee he gives me five bucks and tells me to keep the change. He actually talks to me, unlike most of my customers who act like I’m the hired help. He could probably buy and sell me ten times over but he treats me like an equal.”

“Nice to hear. You know if he’s married?”

“Nope. But just for you, I’ll be sure to bring it up in conversation next time I see him. Or at least check for a wedding ring.”

“The lack of one wouldn’t necessarily mean he’s single.”

“True, but he doesn’t strike me as the cheating type if he was married.”

“Good to know.” She looked around to see if he might be coming. “But listen, don’t be, you know, too obvious.”

“What, you think I’m gonna say, Hey Spence, some blonde babe wants to hook up with you. And how convenient, we’re right near a hotel. Give me some credit, will ya? I don’t look it, but I can be subtle.”

“Sorry. I appreciate any information you can get.”

“Consider it done.”

“And thank you for referring to me as a babe, but I’m not.”

He rolled his eyes. “Oh, you’re one of those women.”

“What do you mean by that?”

“Offended by the term babe.”

“That doesn’t bother me. I’ve just never been called one.”

“Then you’re the other type, which you don’t see too often from your generation.”

“What other type?”

“Pretty woman who has no clue she’s very attractive. Which is good, since I don’t like women who are stuck on themselves.”

“Well, thank you for the compliment, but I don’t think I’m anything special.”

“We’ll have to see what Spence thinks, won’t we? You just missed him, by the way.”

Tish shook her head. “Damn.”

“I hope that does not imply you’ve been wasting time talking to me in the hopes he might show up.”

“Not at all. I’ve enjoyed meeting you.”

He pointed at her t-shirt and cocked his head toward the hotel. “You staying there?”

“Till Christmas. My house caught on fire and a tree hit it, so that’s where the insurance company put me up. It’s close to my office.” She stuck out her hand. “I’m Tish, by the way.”

He shook it. “I’m Benny. Nice to meet you, Tish from the hotel. So, should I tell him you’re looking for him?”

“I’d rather try to run into him. Less stalkerish, if you know what I mean.”

“I got ya. But I can help you narrow things down. He’s usually here between seven-thirty and eight.”

“Thanks, Benny.”

He flashed a wide grin. “See you tomorrow, Tish from the hotel.”

“So that’s what you’re gonna call me?”

“Easier to keep track of people that way. So you’re Tish from the hotel and he’s Spence from the block. Some of my other regulars are garment district Julio and Broadway Jill. I think it’s only fair since people call me Benny the soda guy.”

“Anyone ever tell you that you’re a character, Benny?”

He put his palms up and smiled. “Every day for the past thirty years when I get home to my wife.”

“Benny, I have a feeling she’s a very lucky woman.”

“Nah. I’m the lucky guy.”

CHAPTER FIVE

The light tap on his office door jolted Spencer out of deep thought. He looked up to see Ariel holding some newspapers. “Hey, Ariel, what’s up?”

“You look like you’re solving the world’s problems.”

“Nah, just thinking about stuff.”

“Right. Stuff.” She walked in and took the chair in front of his desk. “Anything I can help with?”

He shook his head. “Nah. So what are you bringing me?”

“I’m going to need your help on a client I agreed to represent who is about to get sued.” She handed him the one of the papers.

He quickly read the article on the front page, saw the name of the person in question, and shook his head as he tossed the paper on his desk. “No way. Ariel, we don’t need a client like this.”

She put up her hands. “Whoa, hold on. I told you I had a case coming up with a horrible person and you didn’t care. I seem to remember you said we’re in business to make money.”

“I know, but…Peter Brent? The guy is evil. And I thought we agreed not to take any more clients so we could slow down.”

“I know, but I already told him I’d represent him after you didn’t have a problem. Besides, he’s a relative of mine so I’m kinda stuck.”

“You’re related to him?”

“Not something I want to shout from the rooftops, but he’s a cousin. I can’t say no.”

“Sure you can. You pick up the phone and say we’re too busy, which wouldn’t be a lie. Then recommend the appropriate sleaze bag who won’t mind getting in bed with him.”

“I would but this is the guy who put me through law school. I never would have been able to afford it without him. I’m sorry, Spence, but I really do owe him despite the fact that he’s turned into a creep.”

“How did you ever get hooked up with someone who has this kind of reputation?”

“Like I said, he’s a cousin and I see him every year at the family reunion. He’s loaded. And back then he didn’t have a reputation and simply wanted to help me out. He grew up with my mom and they’re good friends. Look, I can certainly keep your name out of it but I may need your help with research and prep on this before I go to court. You’ve had a couple of cases like this one and you know how to win them.”

“I’m not sure I’d wanna help him win anything. But that’s not the problem. The problem is we can’t keep our firm’s name out of it. And you know the public is going to side with the plaintiff. He’s the obvious bad guy here. Big corporate meanie screwing one of his employees out of a fortune. I’ll help you behind the scenes with the research and prep but I can’t be your second chair. Some of our clients would not be happy seeing me defending him.”

“They won’t be happy seeing me do it either.”

“Yeah, but you have the legitimate excuse that you’re related to the guy. Make one of his staff attorneys second chair.”

“Okay, I see your point. Anyway, can you get some stuff together for me this afternoon since he wants to meet with me soon?”

“Sure. I’ll dig out the old case files and write out some strategy for you.” He looked at the newspaper again. “Ariel, is there any chance you can settle this?”

“Don’t think so. My cousin is very stubborn even though a settlement would be pocket change to him. It’s like he’s got a vendetta against the woman. But I’ll try like hell.”

“Please do what you can. Tell him the negative publicity would be far costlier than any settlement. If he hasn’t realized that after reading the papers. Speaking of which, don’t give a damn thing to the media. Silent running and radio silence. The sooner we get this case off the calendar, the better.”

“I will do my best. Hey, if nothing else, we’ll make a fortune off him so we can take more pro bono stuff.”

“I guess that’s one way to look at it.”

“And speaking of things on the calendar, don’t forget you’ve got that charity auction tonight.”

“It’s on my to-do list though I’ll be a little late. You wanna go with me?”

“Nah, I’d spend too much money. But I won’t complain if you buy me something nice.”

“I thought that was your boyfriend’s job.”

“It is, but you have really good taste. I’ve never returned a single thing you’ve given me. I must say, you really know how to shop for a woman.”

He began to blush a bit. “Okay, I have a confession to make.”

“What?”

“I, uh, don’t actually pick out your gifts. I have, you know, help. From another woman. Don’t be mad.”

“I’m not. It’s the gift that counts, not the thought, right?”

“Very funny. But you know how much I think of you.”

“Just bustin’ your chops, partner. Well, whoever your help is, keep her. She’s doing a helluva job.”

*

The well-heeled charity auction crowd applauded as Tish held up Socks at the end of her speech. “So thanks to this little furball, I’m here tonight. Socks would like to thank you all for supporting such a wonderful charity. It will save a lot of animals and really help raise awareness about pet adoptions. Now I’ll turn things over to our auctioneer, and I hope those of you with deep pockets will empty them. I wanna see them turned inside out!”

The crowd laughed as she moved off the stage. She put Socks back in her carrier, then shook hands with all the volunteers from the charity as the auction commenced.

“Really nice of you to bring Socks,” said one woman, poking her finger through the grate to touch her.

“Hey, she’s a great spokes-cat. And she loves people. Can’t get enough attention.”

“Well, this should really help us raise a ton of money. That segment on the network Saturday morning really boosted our last-minute ticket sales. We’ve never had such a big turnout. And a lot of stores donated stuff for the auction after seeing the story.”

“Glad to hear it. Yeah, that story has gone viral.” She heard some big numbers being shouted out from the crowd as the auctioneer held up a beautiful statue. “And you’ve apparently got some expensive stuff to auction off.”

“A few businesses were really generous. Especially one jewelry store.”

Tish looked out at the crowd and saw some a group of men walk into the room and sit at the last table in the back as the auction was beginning.

What she saw made her stand up straight.

The white knight was among them.

Serendipity.

Her pulse quickened as she started to step off the stage to head in his direction. It would be great to pay him back while she was dressed in a new business outfit instead of exercise clothes.

Then a hand lightly grabbed her forearm. “Excuse me, Miss McKenna?”

She turned and found a young woman with a pad and a camera. “Yes?”

“Hi, I’m Jennie Stevens from The New York Post. Could you spare a little time? We’d love to do an interview about how your cat saved your life. I promise it won’t take long.”

Tish took a quick look out at the crowd just as she saw the white knight raise his hand and bid two hundred and fifty dollars to win a lunch at an exclusive restaurant. She turned back to the reporter. “Sure, be happy to talk to you.”

Just her luck, the interview and photos had taken longer than she’d expected because the reporter couldn’t get the camera to work. By the time she was done and returned to the stage the auction was over. She saw the crowd heading out the door.

The white knight was nowhere in sight.

Dammit!

She quickly headed over to the table where the volunteers were busy adding up the checks and cash. “How’d we do, guys?”

The woman counting the money looked up and smiled at her. “Fabulous. This is the most we’ve ever raised at an auction. We can’t thank you enough.”

“My pleasure. Hey, I thought I spotted someone I knew. He was the guy who bought the lunch at Harrison’s.”

“Yeah, got some serious money for that. Not too shabby for a lunch.”

She pointed to the checks thinking there might be one of his with a last name and phone number. How many people named Spencer could there be at this auction? She could call him and thank him for supporting the charity, then… well, who knows. “Can I see if that’s who I thought it was?”

“Oh, he paid in cash. And talk about nice…the winning bid was two-fifty, so he gives me three hundred dollar bills and tells me to keep the change.”

“Did he want a receipt for a tax write-off?”

“I offered and he said it wasn’t necessary. Sorry, there’s no paper trail on the guy. Does that sound like the person you know?”

“Yeah, actually it does.”

*

Spencer breathed in the cool autumn air as he headed toward the drink cart for his morning coffee. Benny spotted him and smiled. “Hey, Spence from the block, beautiful day. You should knock off early this afternoon.”

“With weather like this I’d like to switch jobs with you, Benny.”

Benny started to fix his coffee. “Seriously, you wanna sell soda?”

“If I could work outside today, I’d be happy to. I used to love helping my dad on days like these.”

“Your dad still around?”

“Yeah, but he’s retired. I got him a nice place in Florida. He couldn’t deal with the cold anymore. He cracked a bottle of champagne when he sold his snow blower in a yard sale.”

“That’s my goal as well. Love the Sunshine State. And it’s like the sixth borough of New York anyway.”

“Very true. I always visit in the winter.”

Benny stirred the sugar into the coffee and handed it to him, then pointed at his hand. “So, since we’re on the subject of family, is there no Mrs. Spence? I don’t see a ring.”

Spencer shook his head. “I’m single.”

“Never married?”

“Nope. Never even came close to finding Miss Right.”

“Kids?”

“I’ve never been married.”

“That doesn’t stop your generation.”

“True. I’m old-fashioned in that respect.”

“Well, nice lookin’ guy like you in an expensive suit must have women bangin’ down the door. I can understand why you wouldn’t wanna be attached when you can play the field.”

“If only, Benny. Haven’t had a decent girlfriend in years. I’ve, uh, been kinda married to my job. Which hasn’t helped.”

Benny sat on his stool and folded his arms. “Really? You don’t seem like that type. I’m surprised. There’s more to life than work, you know.”

“Yeah, I’m starting to realize that. As for women, well, the stars never aligned. It seems the women I’m attracted to aren’t interested in me, and vice versa.”

“So what’s your type? Blonde, brunette, or redhead?”

“Hair color doesn’t matter. I like professional women who are incredibly smart and have a lot of spunk. I really don’t like party girls.” He pointed at Benny’s hand which featured a nicked silver ring. “I see you’ve found Miss Right, and from the looks of that ring you found her a while ago.”

“Thirty years. Best thing that ever happened to me.”

Spencer leaned against a light pole as he sipped his coffee. “So what’s the secret of staying married so long in this day and age?”

“Respect. Never take your wife for granted. And don’t stop dating after you get married.”

Spencer’s eyes widened. “You have affairs, Benny?”

“Hell, no. I meant you still take your wife out on dates. We go out to dinner and a movie every Saturday night. I still open doors for her, bring her a rose now and then, little stuff that says I love you without the words. Just because you’re spending the rest of your life together doesn’t mean the courtship ends. Too many couples start out as lovers and end up as roommates. And a lot of couples from your generation end up divorced.”

“You’re a wise man, Benny.” His cell rang and he pulled it from his pocket. “Well, excuse me, gotta go. Enjoy the beautiful day.”

“You should take some time to do the same, Spence.”

*

Tish jogged across the street and noted her watch read seven-twenty-nine. If the white knight was always there between seven-thirty and eight, she wanted to be early.

Benny shrugged at her and put his palms up as she walked toward the cart. “You just missed him again.”

She shook her head. “You said he’s here between seven-thirty and eight.”

“He was early today, what can I say?”

“I’ll keep trying.”

“Well, Tish from the hotel, this is not to say your trip was totally in vain. I did manage to acquire some information about the gentleman that may interest you.”

Her eyes widened as she perked up. “Really? What’d you get?”

“You want orange juice?”

“Yeah. So what’d you get?”

He handed her a bottle. “Not married. Never been married. So no baggage to check.”

“Well, that’s half the battle. You get anything else?”

“Do I look like an amateur?”

“No. C’mon, c’mon, what else you got?

Benny shot her a sly grin. “No girlfriend.”

“And there’s the other half of a perfect answer.” She couldn’t hold back a smile. “I’m honestly very surprised.”

“I was too. He mentioned that the women he’s interested in never feel the same about him. And something about the stars not aligning for him yet.”

“So there’s hope for me.”

“Well, that depends.”

“On what?”

“If your stars and his stars are in the same constellation.”

“What, you’re into astrology?”

“No, I meant if you’re his type.”

She nodded. “So you actually found out what kind of women he finds attractive?”

“Young lady, you give Benny a chance to play matchmaker, he will not disappoint. I’m better than a Jewish mother, even though I’m an Irish father. By the end of the week I’ll have a complete dossier in your hands with all his likes and dislikes.”

“Yeah, yeah, so what’s he lookin’ for? C’mon, dish.”

“You’re such an impatient little thing.”

“I’m not exactly little.”

“Well, you’re a helluva lot better looking than that bag-o-bones supermodel who drops by every day and has Diet Coke and cigarettes for lunch.”

“Thank you, but we’re getting off track, Benny. So what’s his type?”

“I started by asking him if he liked blondes, brunettes or redheads and he said hair color didn’t matter. He’s a head man.”

Her eyes went wide. “Excuse me? If he’s looking for a girl to spend all her time on her knees—”

“I didn’t mean that! Geez, your mind is in the gutter!” He tapped his head. “I meant he wants a woman with a great head on her shoulders. A guy might be a leg man, a boob man…or in this case a head man. You get what I’m sayin’?”

“Never heard it put quite that way. You might want to retire that particular designation, especially when talking to a woman.”

“Yeah, I guess you could take it the wrong way. Anyway, what Spence from the block wants is a professional woman who is really smart and spunky.” Benny studied her face. “I don’t know you well enough to tell if you fit the bill, but you seem like you have a good head on your shoulders. Already know you have an attitude.”

“Very funny.”

“I meant that as a compliment.”

“Nice save, Mister. Anything else?”

“He got a call while we were talking and had to take off.”

“That seems to happen with him. Well, you still cleared up a lot, Benny. Thank you. I appreciate it.”

“So now that you know he’s unattached, does that change your strategy?”

“It just gives me hope. I still need to meet the guy.”

“I think you need a different approach.”

“How so?”

“He said he likes professional women. So when you show up here, don’t do it in a jogging outfit.”

She nodded. “Point taken.”

“What do you do for a living?”

“Lawyer.”

“So you must have nice clothes.”

“I do.”

“So, see you tomorrow, Tish from the hotel? All dolled up?”

“Not dolled up, but professional.”

CHAPTER SIX

Tish enjoyed being one of the rotating guests for the weekly legal show on one of New York City’s talk radio stations. Giving free legal advice to people who couldn’t afford it was an easy way to give back. It was an hour every few weeks that had actually brought her a few paying clients over the years. It was a good strategy to get her name “out there” when she first got out of law school and also helped her develop a reputation as a lawyer who was on the side of good. The show had a sizable listening audience. She’d often said, on the air, that she turned down clients with whom her philosophy differed. Anyone looking up her track record would discover she wasn’t kidding.

The studio was freezing cold as always, since broadcast equipment had to be kept from overheating. She adjusted her headset as the middle-aged host, James Berger, handed her a cup of hot chocolate and took a seat opposite her. “How’s it going, Tish? I’m surprised to see you after the thing with your house.”

She placed her hands around the mug to warm them. “Well, I’m lucky to be alive, so I’m counting my blessings. A house can be repaired. In the grand scheme of things, it’s just a thing.”

“Very true. But that was an incredible story about your cat.”

“Yeah, she saved my life. I don’t think I can feed her enough treats. Anyway, I’m living in a hotel during the week and with a friend on the weekend. I’ll be back in my house in a couple of months. Though right now it’s not my biggest problem.”

“Really?”

She nodded. “My biggest client was Clint Davies.”

“Oh, hell. I couldn’t believe his company went under. Loved his products. I guess we’ll have to find you some new business. You want me to say something today?”

“Nah, this show is for pro bono work. It would be tacky to solicit clients.”

“That’s the reason the callers love you. The rare ethical attorney. Tell you what, though, I could toss you a little work myself. Since I’m getting married I could use one of those pre-nups. It’s not a big project but it might pay your light bill for a month or two.”

“Pre-nup? You worried about your fiancée?”

“Twenty-three year old bikini model marrying an overweight, balding guy of fifty? The thought that she wants me for my money has crossed my mind a time or two. And my friends refer to her with the G-word.”

“G-word?”

“Golddigger.”

Tish shook her head. “Why do guys like you date women like that?”

He flashed a wicked grin as his eyebrows did a little jump. “Because we can.”

“Very funny. Typical man.”

“Anyway, if she refuses to sign it I’ll know she’s in it for the money.”

“In other words, you won’t have any trouble finding another young bikini model?”

“Fame is an incredible aphrodisiac. You’d be amazed at the women who approach me. And I know damn well they wouldn’t give me the time of day if I worked at the post office.”

“Well, best of luck with your marriage. And I appreciate the business but hope I will not have to handle your divorce proceedings. A new client is welcome right now. Though I will tell you it would be a lot cheaper for you to buy yourself a nice mid-life crisis convertible.”

“Already got one of those. It’s how I met her. The thing is a chick magnet.”

“Well, so much for that theory. You sure you want legal advice from me?”

“Absolutely. Anyway, I’ll come to your office this week and bring you a list of my assets.”

“Sure. And I can’t wait to meet her.”

“You won’t have much to talk about. She ain’t exactly Stephen Hawking.” He put on his headset and adjusted the microphone. “Here we go.”

*

Spencer started eating the chicken parmigiana he’d brought back to the office for lunch. Usually he listened to the sports talk radio station whenever he ate at his desk, but last week he’d heard about a show featuring lawyers giving free legal advice and wanted to check it out. He took a bite of his meal as he flipped on the radio.

“And welcome to Legal Briefs, I’m James Berger and our attorney in the house today is Tish McKenna—”

His jaw dropped a bit, sending a bit of red sauce onto his red silk tie. Thankfully it matched pretty well. He quickly grabbed a napkin and wiped it off, then turned up the volume on the radio.

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