Thursday afternoon arrived David arrived first again, choosing the same corner spot under the striped awning. The black 540i was parked a block away, quiet and unassuming among the other cars. He ordered a black coffee and waited, watching the foot traffic — young professionals on lunch breaks, a mother pushing a stroller, an older man reading a newspaper with a frown.
Michelle Langford arrived exactly on time this time. She stepped out of her white Mercedes in a simple navy blouse and dark jeans, hair loose around her shoulders. No heavy jewelry today, just the diamond studs and a quiet confidence that said she had decided something. She spotted him immediately and walked over, her smile warmer than polite society required.
"David," she said, sliding into the chair across from him. "Thank you for meeting me again. Richard is buried in meetings all day. He won't even notice I'm gone."
