"What?"
"Making people laugh until they forget they're in a business meeting."
West raised his glass.
"It's an underrated strategy."
"I'll have to steal it."
"I charge consulting fees."
"Oh?"
"What are they?"
He pretended to think.
"One good joke."
She smiled.
"I think I can afford that."
For another half hour they simply enjoyed each other's company.
No discussions of gangs.
No politics.
No crises.
Just two people relaxing after difficult months.
Eventually...
Liz glanced at the time.
Her eyes widened.
"I should really go."
She stood, smoothing her dress.
"Thank you."
West walked her toward the office door.
She hesitated.
Then looked back at him.
"...Can I ask you something?"
"Sure."
She searched his face.
"How come..."
"...you never made me feel like our business depended on anything except business?"
West understood immediately.
His expression softened.
"Because that's exactly what it is."
She lowered her gaze.
