No sooner had the host looked up from his podium than a knowing look spread across his gaunt face. If there was a chance this night might end in a fight, Owen wasn’t going to be caught trying to maneuver in some slick-soled wingtips. Owen drew a few looks as he walked through the front door he’d donned a button-down and a nice pair of slacks but refused to trade in his boots for something more appropriate. It was the sort of place where one who underdressed was browbeaten and silently shamed rather than flat-out refused service. The Sleek Minx was an upscale restaurant, though not so refined that they actually imposed a dress code. Thankfully, Owen wouldn’t have to deal with Zero for a little while, so it meant he didn’t have any conflicts for dinner.

Knowing how to come at people was nearly as important as what was said when the dealing began. That in itself wasn’t impressive, but it spoke to Zero’s understanding that this was the strategy Owen would respond best to. The man was professional through and through: he said what he wanted then immediately entered negotiation mode to get it. Things with the boys were fine, thankfully what Zero needed was a favor. It hurt to hear his former partner so drained, and it was made all the worse by the fact that Owen knew he very well might be adding to Topsy’s stress.ĭealing with Zero, at least, was a straightforward affair. While it was nice to speak with his old friend, Owen couldn’t help noticing the weariness in Topsy’s voice as they’d gone over their calendars to find a mutually open date. Dealing with last night’s messages had necessitated several calls to Lenny, who was less than thrilled by Owen’s request, as well calls to Zero and Topsy. It was the first true break he’d caught all day. Plus, he was able to stash some of his costume’s bulkier components in the town car’s back seat.

It meant that after a long day, Owen didn’t have to drive or jog to meet up with Jeremiah. Say what Owen might about Mordent Holdings, that town car policy wasn’t always a bad thing. A valet rushed over, but the driver waved him off. When his sizable form departed, the frame lifted up several inches, free of the burden weighing it down. Owen exited the town car as it idled at the curb.

Corpies drew hayes