Chapter 40: A Conspiracy of Ravens, Part 3, Erin

"I want to talk to you," he say. "And I'm returning your bag. It was in my car that evening up at Michael's place."

"Yes, when you abandoned me and left me without even the money for a taxi. I'd have been in real trouble if Michael weren't a very decent man."

I snatch the proffered bag from his hand. "And you can't talk to me here. Even if I thought I had anything to discuss with you, I have no authority to let you into the building. So, please go, you can see I've got my hands full, can't you."

His gaze finally transfers to the sobbing Erin in my arms.

"Why's she crying? What's wrong?"

"As you already know, Erin's broken up with her boyfriend. And, as you can see, she's very upset. I simply can't handle my job, her and you all at the same time. Now Ben, please leave. If anyone sees that I'm letting you stay here, I'm risking my job."

"Too late." comes a voice from behind me, grit in the tone.

I startle and swivel to face the lean-faced James, looking down at me, his expr