“But I absolutely believe we should try working together,” Audrey said to Colette’s back.

Colette faced Audrey. “Please. I’m not falling for that again.”

“Did you fall for it? Because I haven’t seen you acting like you’re supporting me. Didn’t you notice last week that Hunter praised your analysis to the client saying it was ‘insightful’—exactly what I’d written him? It was practically like a magic trick.”

“You probably told him to do that.”

“I didn’t. And it’s not like I’m making this stuff up. I’ve sent you the research.”

“You don’t need my support now. You have Hunter wrapped around your little pinkie.”

“Please. As you know from the fact that we’re sharing strategy, Hunter is his own man.” Hmm, but it would be good if Colette thinks I have Hunter wrapped around my finger. I shouldn’t refute that. “Hunter and I have worked together for years. He’s not giving me special treatment. If he’s in my corner, it’s because I’ve earned his support as a team player. He’ll support you as well, but not if your approach is to one-up me. You’re the one who asked to be on this case. Hunter told me last night. Why?”

“You’re my competition. I wanted to know what I was up against,” Colette said. They reached Colette’s office door, and Colette leaned against it. “And I thought you were a bit wimpy.”

Audrey stepped back and turned away from Colette. I don’t have to deal with this.

“But not anymore,” Colette said. “You’ve more of the killer instinct than I thought. I misjudged you. And I’ve learned from you—you totally subsumed your ego for that deposition, for example, letting that guy walk all over you, but you got some great admissions.”

Audrey faced Colette. “I tried my best not to damage you with that email.”

“Yes, my mother thought your email was quite fair, all things considered. Of course, she works in Washington, D.C. She thinks I should befriend you.”

“I don’t see the downside. If you think about it, our strengths are complementary,” Audrey said. “If it doesn’t work, we can revert to being colleagues who don’t quite trust each other—or know not to trust each other.”

“I’ll think about it,” Colette said, entering her office and closing her door.

That was so Colette. She has to get the last word in, and she won’t actually promise anything.

Chapter Forty-Five

Hunched over her office desk, Audrey was revising her cross-examination questions for her trial.

Jake: While you’re stuck at work, think about this: I thought you might want to do a yoga session while I’m surfing in Santa Teresa. Should I book?

She googled the link.

Audrey: Looks fabulous! YES! Thanks! Wish I could do that yoga session right now.