Chapter 4

Ten minutes later, Calvin hurried into the bar, wearing a navy blazer over a navy and white striped T-shirt, and dark trousers.

“Sorry I’m late,” he said. They shook hands. “The phone rang as I was leaving.” He looked at his watch. “Ah, I’m only a bit late. Been here long?”

“About ten minutes,” replied Paul. “What’ll you have?”

“A beer,” he said. “Whatever you’re having.”

Paul ordered a beer and Calvin suggested they get a booth.

“More private,” he said.

Paul followed Calvin to the back of the bar and they found a booth near the corner where the fronds of a large potted palm hung over them like an umbrella.

“I know this is all very unconventional,” said Calvin. “I’m glad you took the chance and called.”

“I had nothing else on,” said Paul. “Besides, I was interested to hear what you had to say. This whole situation has been…” He searched for the right word. “Intriguing.”

Calvin laughed. “That’s one word for it.”