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Frazier half-stumbled into the first available chair, a high-backed, overstuffed affair with enormous wings. He sank into it, suddenly feeling even more foolish then than he had at any time since he had begun his little adventure. |
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Jubell Caron continued to appraise him with a look that he would have been tempted to describe as passing amusement. He was uncomfortable with the protracted silence, but it didn't seem to be affecting her one way or the other. He cleared his throat nervously. |
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"I hardly know where to begin." |
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The Caron woman continued to smile. She had a lovely smile, radiant and sensuous. It was the most beguiling smile Charlie Frazier had ever encountered. She sat down, leaned gracefully back on the plush velvet love seat and picked up a small bell. The sound it emitted was barely perceptible, but almost instantly a tall angular man of advanced years emerged from the room's shadows. He bowed stiffly. Despite his presence, she kept her eyes fixed on the young officer. Finally, almost as if she were reluctant to do so, she glanced up at the old man. |
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"We have a guest, Raymond. This is Captain Frazier. Captain Frazier would like a perfect Manhattan. Am I correct, Captain?" |
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Charlie looked at the woman in amazement. He was tempted to ask the inevitable, |
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