Despite the dust, Eddie Bent’s new digs were definitely an improvement over his communal office-share. Although built during the Victorian era, the building boasted the elegance of Georgian design. An old brick wall had been left exposed, providing a gritty textural contrast to the smooth wood floors and sleek office furnishings. In front of one large window, a leather sofa and two chairs had been neatly arranged around a neutral rug. There were two offices in the back.

Kate offered Eddie silent kudos. She walked over to the half-open office door on the right. “Hey there, pardner!”

Eddie laid down a sheaf of papers on a desk that was stacked with file folders, rising to greet her. “Kate! Thanks for coming on such short notice.”

Kate held out two coffee cups. “I brought us Americanos to toast the new firm of Lange & Bent.”

He reached out for a cup, grinning. “Bent & Lange, if you want me to stop smoking in the office.”

Kate eyed him over the lid. “I knew you would play hard ball.”

He raised his cup. “To Bent & Lange.”

Kate tapped her cup against his. “To Bent & Lange, the pursuit of justice, and may the coffee shop on the corner never close.”

They both swigged their coffee. Kate wiped her mouth with the back of her hand. “On second thought, may the coffee shop on the corner be bought by someone who knows how to make espresso.”

“It all tastes the same at midnight.” Eddie gestured to the file. “And I think this case will prove my point. I hadn’t expected to put you on a case the same day we became partners, but welcome to the life of a criminal defense lawyer. I hope that Nina Woods didn’t give you any grief for leaving so soon.”

Kate gave a rueful smile. “None whatsoever. I think she was happy to put the Kate Lange chapter of McGrath Woods’ storied existence behind them.”

Eddie shrugged. “Their loss, Kate.”

“Time will tell.” She pushed down the hurt. No matter her reasons for leaving McGrath Woods, it rankled that they were so patently relieved to see her leave. “Where should I put my briefcase?”

“There is a second office. But it’s unfurnished. I thought I would have time to order furniture for you when court was adjourned at lunch, but things got busy.” He ran a hand through his shaggy salt-and-pepper hair. “Why don’t you call my supplier and they’ll send a desk and chair over for you on Monday.” He grabbed one of the chairs facing his desk and pulled it closer. “Have a seat. I want to brief you on this file.”

Kate sat down, dropping her briefcase to the floor. “Got something interesting?”

Eddie sank in the black leather executive chair behind his desk. He shuffled under the open file and produced a newspaper. “Very.” He tossed the paper at Kate. “Have a look at the headlines.”