Mr. And Miss Anonymous (30 page)

The copilot announced their arrival, and within minutes the cabin door was opening and the automatic stairs descending for their immediate exit.

“Now this sure beats commercial flying. I always hate when the passengers jump up like pigs running to a feeding trough. Not to mention all the offending body odors you have to endure.”

“You’re disgusting, Sophie,” Toots said.

Their arrival was met with all the pomp and circumstance afforded visiting dignitaries, complete with a meticulously placed red carpet leading to a sleek black limousine.

The chauffeur was retrieving their luggage from the baggage compartment when a well-dressed woman in her mid-thirties emerged from the limo. She greeted the quartet as they approached the vehicle. “I’m Cynthia Johnson, the first lady’s personal assistant. How was your flight?”

Returning to her role of society snob, Ida was the first to speak. “It was perfect from takeoff to landing. It was so kind of the governor to send his jet for us.”

Sophie looked at Toots and Mavis, rolling her eyes. “Is this the same woman who left finger-nail marks on the armrest five minutes ago?”

Ida shot her a shut-up-or-die look.

“I’m not the biggest fan of flying myself,” Cynthia said to Ida. “Sophia?”

She shook hands with the woman. “That would be me,” Sophie said. “These are my friends, Toots, and Mavis.”

“I’m glad you all could accompany Sophie. I’m sure you will enjoy the amenities at the Sterling Hotel. You all have carte blanche, courtesy of the governor.” She looked at her slim gold wristwatch. “We’d better get going.”

Half an hour later, when they arrived at the hotel, they were greeted by the governor himself.

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Copyright © 2009 by Fern Michaels

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ISBN: 978-1-4201-2966-3