The Finishing School (45 page)

His eyes filled with tears, and they hugged.

DAN WAS WAITING outside with the engine running and the heat on.

“You told Trevor about dropping the charges?” he asked as she sank into the passenger seat, pulling her heavy coat tight around her.

“Yes. He was
very
happy. It was a nice Christmas present to be able to give him. Speaking
of
—what the heck is that in the backseat?”

There was a huge teddy bear wearing a Santa hat in the back of Dan’s car.

“Well, you invited me over for dinner. I’m a little nervous about meeting Maya again, since she didn’t seem too keen on me last time.”

“She was
sick
, silly.”

“Whatever. I’m not taking any chances. I know better than to show up empty-handed. Chicks always dig a gift.”

She giggled. “Not me. I’m not materialistic like that.”

“No?”

“Nope.”

“Okay, then I won’t give you the thing I got you.”

“You got me something?
Really
? That is so sweet!”

“Yeah, but since you’re not materialistic, you don’t need it.”

“Hey, come on, don’t be that way! What is it?”

“I’m not telling.”

“
Where
is it?”

He lifted his arms and gave her a million-dollar smile. “Somewhere on my person.”

“Oh, you want me to pat you down? You sure?” she said.

“Yes, ma’am.”

“You have no idea what you’re in for.”

“Bring it on, Melanie Vargas. Life’s short. Let’s not waste another second.”

I am deeply indebted to my agent, Meg Ruley, for being my counselor, cheerleader, and friend. She’s the best. I am also indebted to all the other wonderful people at the Jane Rotrosen Agency for their assistance and support.

I still can’t believe how fortunate I am to be edited by Carolyn Marino, who combines tremendous insight and skill with the lightest, most gracious touch. All of the incredible people at William Morrow and HarperAudio are a delight to work with. I am especially grateful to Michael Morrison, Lisa Gallagher, and Dee Dee De Bartlo, and to Jennifer Civiletto for all her help.

The following people read this book in manuscript form and gave me terrific comments: Don Cleary, Christina Hogrebin, Nicole Gruenstein, and Randy Dwenger. Many thanks also to the one and only Cass Adelman for the excellent Manhattan doggy and girls’-school details.

A graduate of Harvard University and Stanford Law School, Michele Martinez worked at a prestigious Manhattan law firm before serving eight years as a federal prosecutor. She lives in New York City with her husband and two children.