SEATED ON THE CONNECTING flight into Punta Maya, Lewis removed the laptop from her computer bag and reviewed her daily TJ material one more time. She allowed her mind to fast forward to the daily retreat schedule. She was confident that everything was locked in and ready to go. All of the panels and programs were in place. More importantly, all of the choice speaking assignments had been meted out, and everyone who had received one or more of those assignments knew they were in her debt.
All at once, she sensed someone staring at her from the adjacent aisle. She looked up.
After a moment of awkward silence: “Lisa Lewis, right? Or should I say L.C. Lewis? Or Ms. Lewis? I’m Robin Donnelly. We met at TJ last year. I learned so much and love attending the event. I’m on my way to this year’s. By the way, I’ve also read and enjoyed both of your novels. I’m a huge fan. You have really made the big time. I’m on your email list and looking forward to your third.”
“Hi, Robin. Yes. Of course, I remember meeting you last year.” Yeah, right. Seriously? “Nice to see you again. I’m so glad you’ve enjoyed my novels. Both of them, no less. Wow. And thanks for subscribing to my newsletter. How nice to have your support. And I’m still just Lisa. To my friends.”
“Lisa, it is.” Donnelly’s eyes shifted to the laptop. “Working on your next one?”
“Not this week. Going over everything I still have to do for the retreat. Not much time left, I’m afraid.” How the hell do I get rid of this bore?
Lewis returned her gaze to the laptop. Fiddled with the keyboard.
“Well, I should let you get back to it. Maybe we can get a drink sometime during the week. I’d appreciate the chance to show you what I’m working on. Get your thoughts.”
“For sure, Robin. I’ll look forward to that.” Zip-a-dee-doo-dah, I can hardly wait!
CONNOR CLIMBED OUT OF the limousine as it stopped at the main entrance to the Hotel Marisol. He was greeted by a bellhop who said, “Checking in? Can I help you with your luggage?”
“That won’t be necessary,” he replied. “I’ll handle them myself. They contain some very delicate items,” he added. “I need the frig in my room as quickly as possible. Will appreciate if you can move me through check in ASAP, and get me my keys.” He handed the bellhop a ten dollar bill.
“Yes sir, right away!” the bellhop responded.
JK's Code (Brooks/Lotello Thriller Book 4) Page 37
