Then I rolled up my shirtsleeves, tugged off my tie and loosened my collar.

I undid my titanium cufflinks, a birthday gift from my mom, and stowed them in a cupholder.

Then I laid them in the passenger seat, covering my briefcase. I unbuttoned my charcoal blazer and the vest underneath. “Probably should have worn jeans,” I said to myself, taking in my standard three-piece suit. Today, I wanted to explore without flash. The Jag drew too much attention parked next to large trucks with mud flaps. There were areas in Denver where I wouldn’t dare leave a luxury vehicle, but I doubted carjacking was common in Calamity, and I didn’t want to park on First. Hopefully my own would be fine parked here for an hour or two. When I’d passed the school on the way into town, its parking lot had been crowded with vehicles. The homes themselves were quiet, most people likely at work this time of day. Trees dotted each yard, their colors beginning to change much like they did in Colorado in early September. One block away from the downtown area, I pulled over and parked the Jag along an empty sidewalk. “Bye.” I ended the call and turned off First Street, easing down a side street lined with homes.

I’ll be in the office Wednesday morning.” For the record, let it be known that I think you’re making a huge mistake by avoiding her.” “I’m busy, Nellie.” This was one area where I didn’t need her input. I’ll call her back.” We both knew I wouldn’t.

The brazen by willa nash read online