Chapter 96

Alan said pleasantly, "Be my guest." Natasha offered, "I can go with you." "No, you should stay. You shouldn't be inhaling second-hand smoke anyway, what with your health and all," Samuel said coolly as he got up to leave. Natasha glanced in Shelmaine's direction to make sure she wasn't planning to go out after Samuel. To her relief, Shelmaine remained at her table and did not look inclined to leave for a while yet. Samuel found a quiet spot and lit a cigarette. The air was chilly, and the evening breeze was picking up. He wore only a shirt that did little to shield him from the elements, and he cursed softly when the lighter refused to work. He stalked back to the hotel to ask for a lighter from the waiting staff. After smoking half a cigarette, he dialed Shelmaine's number. He waited what felt like ages for her to answer, and when she did, she sounded courteous but distant. "Hello? Is everything all right?" He hadn't heard her speak so softly to him in a long while. "How's the