Page 447 of The Sinner: James

JAMES

Monaco

James’hotel suite

“Tough week, huh?”Ed asks from the terrace, flicking his eyes to me as I pour two glasses of scotch at the bar inside.

“Yeah, “ I mutter, sunk in thought.

I walk outside and set the glasses on the patio table before crashing into a chair across from him.

The sea shimmers nearby, reflecting the starry sky, while the evening breeze brings in the soft lights and muted sounds of Monte Carlo.

It’s almost nine, and cars pull up in front of the hotel, some people going to the restaurant, others heading to the Casinos.

I take a drink of hard liquor. The aroma and fire roll over my palate.

He takes a swig of his drink.

A soft knock on the door makes us move our eyes to the entrance.

“Come in,” I bark.

A woman, an employee of the hotel, walks in.

“We’re here,” I say.

She sidles up to me and sets a pack of cigarettes on the patio table.

“Let me know if you need anything else, sir.”

“Sure. Thanks.”

The woman nods and spins away, making a beeline for the door.

A moment later, we’re alone again.

“What’s up with you and the cigarettes? You haven’t smoked that much lately.”

He leans back in his seat while I fish out a cigarette from the pack and slip it between my lips.

Smoothly, I flick my lighter open and let the flame lick the tip.

“I’m cutting back,” I say, talking around my cigarette.

“Because?”

Pacing myself, I take a long drag and exhale the smoke, my whole body relaxing.

“Because it’s healthy,” I say, tipping my gaze to him, grinning.

He doesn’t say a word but folds his arms over his chest.

“You never do anything without a damn good reason, Sexton. Do you want me to believe you’re suddenly preoccupied with your health?”

“It’s never too late, Preston,” I say, gesturing with the hand holding my cigarette.

A knowing smile curves his lips.

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