Page 81 of Stuart Woods' Smolder

He left her to do what she needed and returned to Dino, who handed him a glass of Knob Creek. Dino held up his own drink. “Welcome to Los Angeles.”

“Glad to be here.”

Dino nodded toward the back of the house where the master suite was located. “I distinctly remember you saying something about spending time with Holly.”

“I did. Twelve hours, give or take.”

“The North Korea thing?”

“The North Korea thing.”

“I applaud your speed at finding a replacement.”

“Monica’s not a replacement. We happened to hit it off.”

“Conveniently, right after your previous arrangement fell apart.”

“Notrightafter. There was a day and a half in between.”

“That makes it all better.”

“That reminds me.”

“What reminds you?”

Stone ignored him and went to the house phone. He was just finishing up his call to arrange a car for Monica when she reentered the living room.

“There should be a golf cart out front,” Stone said.

“I think I’ll need something more robust than that to get to Echo Park.”

“The sass is strong with this one,” Dino said. “I like her.”

“If you two are through,” Stone said. “The golf cart will take you to where a vehicle better suited for your needs will be waiting.”

She smiled and gave him a quick kiss. “I appreciate it.”

“How long will you be gone?”

“Not sure, but I should be back in time for dinner. I hope you don’t get too bored without me.”

“I’ll soldier on.”

“And I’ll make sure he doesn’t get into too much trouble,” Dino said.

“Has that worked in the past?” she asked.

“Not as often as I would hope.”

“Good luck, then. Work calls, so I’m off.” She and Stone kissed again, and she headed outside.

“What kind of business is she in?” Dino asked.

“Insurance investigator, though currently unemployed.”

“I feel like there’s a critical piece of information missing.”

“Perceptive as ever.”

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