Page 57 of Hidden Trial

“I don’t know. Maybe if you two were dressed the same you’d fool me for like a minute. But it wouldn’t last. You’re too different. I can’t believe no one could tell.”

“Trust me. If we are really trying, you wouldn’t know until we wanted you to.”

“If you say so. But listen, tonight doesn’t have to be completely in character. It’s okay to enjoy the nice dinner in your fancy clothes and have some fun.”

“I thought this was a lesson.”

“It is, but we’re not trying to fool anyone. I wanted to give you some exposure. Ease you into it. Besides that, you’ve already passed.”

“Have I?”

“Yeah. You walked in here like a boss. The stuff that came after?” He shrugged. “Meh.”

“You didn’t like my duck comments? I thought that was fabulous.”

“They could use some work.”

“I’m glad to know my walk doesn’t need any more work, but I still feel underqualified for an actual meeting with someone. Maybe we should spend the evening discussing Maddison’s mannerisms. That way, I’ll be more prepared.”

“The notes you were taking were good observations. That will help a lot. When you’re in character, bring those things out. And how are you doing on the inside?”

“What do you mean?”

“Inside your head. It’s a lot to take in. I know Maddy said the meeting should be easy, and it should, but you’re not used to doing this sort of thing. It can cause a lot of stress. You need to tell me if you’re not coping.”

She let out a bored sigh, touching a hand to the base of her throat. “And what about you? How are you coping?”

“Fine. I’m coping fine.”

“Then, if you must second-guess my abilities, you’d best do it outside of my hearing. Like I said, I like you, but you’re replaceable.”

Will was struck silent for a moment, then he lifted his hands in a quiet clap. “Brilliant. Well done. Turning the attention off yourself and on to the other person.”

“And answering a question with a question. So that’s what I’m going for?”

“Yes. It’s a small adjustment, but you had the right inflection in your voice too. It works much better than your duck comments. You picked that up from the transcripts you read, didn’t you?”

“I did.”

“Perfect. We can work with that.”

“Sure, but one thing I can’t see in the reports is how she holds herself. Does she cross her legs, clasp her hands in her lap, hold her chin high most of the time?”

“Why don’t you do what feels right, and I’ll fix anything that needs correcting. But for now, let’s eat our dinner. I’m starving.”

“What if Antonio feeds us while we’re visiting him? I’ll need to know how to eat.”

“You don’t know how?”

“Funny.”

“I don’t think he’s studied Maddison’s eating habits. There is a strong possibility that he will serve us a meal of some sort, but as long as you look like you know what you’re doing, you’ll be fine. You know how to use a knife and fork, I take it?”

She gave him a look. “But I want to get this right. I’d prefer practicing while I can.”

“Okay then, I’ll take you through the silverware as we go. It will be easier to remember if you’ve used them, and that means I’m ordering you a full five course meal. I hope you’re hungry.”

“I haven’t eaten all day.”

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