“Mariel and Allan Stevens make sure that any appropriate cross-pollination, if you will, is taken advantage of. Believe me, your work has definitely influenced some other work that is going on concurrently. I can assure you of that.”

“What aspect of my work? The biocompatibility issue?”

“I’m not going to be specific,” Berman said. His voice hardened. His smile disappeared. His patience was nearing its limit, but he checked himself. “Let’s go back to more pleasant subject matters.”

“You asked me how it was going, and I’m being frank. I’m sorry if I overstepped any line.”

“No, I’m glad you feel comfortable talking to me directly. I know how Mariel can be. It’s a virtue of hers to be so diligent. Except when it isn’t. But enough of that. What I really wanted to come over here for is to apologize for my adolescent behavior last night. The last time I passed out was freshman year at Yale. It is not my usual modus operandi. I’m sorry.”

“There’s no need for an apology. I drank more than I usually do, too. I fell asleep as well.”

“Is it out of line to ask if you had fun last night?”

Berman was still smiling, so Pia thought she could relax. “Yes, I did have fun. Thank you for having me over.” She glanced around for Mariel to make sure she had not approached. Pia wouldn’t have put it past her, but she had left the room. “The only part I regretted was when Miss Jones found us crashed out in your den. That was a little embarrassing.”

“Oh, I don’t think you have anything to be embarrassed about. I’ve woken up in much more compromising situations than that one, believe me. I have to say that I enjoyed myself immensely before the scotch got the better of me. You are quite the dancer.”

Pia felt her face flush. Of all the things he should remember. Thinking about it embarrassed her far more than Miss Jones’s showing up. “It’s amazing what alcohol can do to one’s inhibitions,” she said.

“You were delightful. The next time you come, I’ll make sure I stay awake and be a more attentive host. How does that sound?”

“Sounds good,” said Pia, thinking the opposite. “I’m up to my neck in here for the next few days, though.”

“Alas, I’m traveling myself, so I won’t be around for a while. It would be good if you could come with me, but you’re much too important here.”

“Oh, going anywhere fun?” Pia was horrified at the idea that Berman even considered the idea of taking her with him, and she had to make an effort to sound as casual as possible.