Chapter 11 - THE PRETZEL IN THE PAPER SLEEVE
Audrey saw Dominic again on a rainy afternoon in Philadelphia.
She was leaving a bookstore when she spotted him across the street.
No entourage.
No expensive coat.
Just a dark sweater and an umbrella.
He was standing outside a small bakery.
Holding a soft pretzel.
Audrey stopped.
He looked up.
Their eyes met.
For a moment, neither moved.
Then Audrey crossed the street.
"You're still buying those?"
Dominic smiled faintly.
"Occupational hazard."
She looked at the pretzel.
"Is that for me?"
He hesitated.
"It could be."
She laughed.
Then became serious.
"I heard about the investigation."
Dominic nodded.
"How bad?"
He looked away.
"Complicated."
Audrey studied him.
"Are you cooperating?"
"Yes."
"Are you still involved in the criminal side?"
He took a breath.
"I'm working to leave it behind. But I won't pretend the process is finished."
Audrey nodded.
Then said, "Good."
He looked surprised.
She continued.
"Not good that it's complicated. Good that you're telling me the truth."
Dominic smiled faintly.
He held out the pretzel.
Audrey took it.
Then asked:
"Coffee?"
Dominic stared.
"With me?"
She raised an eyebrow.
"Unless you have another train to catch in the wrong direction."
He laughed.
"No."
May you like
She smiled.
"Then come on."
