Echo

her shoulder as she wildly gesticulated. They both looked up with grim expressions.
    “Are you ready for me, Mr. Diaz?” Peter hurriedly escorted them back to his office where he slowly moved back behind his desk, his fingers tented and thoughtfully tapping. Abby could feel the dynamic of the room change. She decided to sit back and observe, letting Jose handle the rest of the meeting.
    “Mr. Gavin …”
    “Peter, please.”
    “Ok, Peter. I have a few odd questions for you and I ask for your patience.” Peter looked unaccountably uncomfortable. Jose and Abby glanced at each other, with Abby asking sharply, “Peter is there something you need to tell us?”
    “Ms. Preston, before we continue our business relationship, I must confess to you that while we were in our meeting, two young men that I can only refer to as thugs, entered the reception room to strong arm my receptionist into revealing the purpose of our meeting. I will not repeat the lewd threat made by one of them. We were just deciding whether we should contact the authorities to report them, when I realized it would therefore, compromise your privacy. I could not have that. You are my client, even though you have not yet engaged me.” Jose and Abby froze in their seats.
    “I assure you, I do not judge my clients, but if you are involved in any activity that will break any laws or compromise the personal safety of anyone, l will be forced to decline to represent you.” Peter made his pronouncement so softly, so gently, Jose knew they had their man. But would he agree to their proposal? Diving in, he began.
    “Peter, I respect your position and I assure you, we’re not involved in anything illegal. The men you mentioned are familiar to us. It’s a story we’ll disclose if you agree to accept our offer of employment. I can tell you that Abby’s mother recently died; a tragic accident that may have exacerbated some inappropriate feelings from a family member who took advantage of the moment and assaulted her. He didn’t get as far as he intended but it’s clear to us that he’ll try again.”
    “As I said, I have a few questions that you’ll find a bit unusual. But I do have a purpose, if you can please bear with me. Are you married by any chance, Peter?”
    “No, I’m not. Nor do I have any immediate plans to marry.”
    “Ok, that will make things a bit easier. I’d like to propose that you become the agent you suggested we hire, to accomplish our plans. We feel that your personality, professionalism and expertise are just what we need.”
    “But—,” Peter interrupted.
    “I know,” Abby said reassuringly, taking over the conversation after a quick glance at Jose and a subtle nod. “Your practice; we’re hoping you can wind up your affairs as you begin to organize us. I propose that you either take on another associate to handle your other clients or refer them to other attorneys. We would like you to be available to us exclusively. It will mean quite a bit of traveling in the beginning. If we’re satisfied with one another, it’ll mean you’ll have to relocate.
    “You may be happy to hear that we have decided to move to Sarasota, Florida as you suggested. We’ll need you to facilitate the purchase of an estate for us; something private, with a guesthouse if possible. We’ll work out the details on the house search later. We’re hoping you’ll live on the property with us, or at least nearby. We’ll cover the cost of any living arrangements you make for yourself, with a generous allowance, separate from your salary. We realize we’re asking a lot, but as you know we’ll be able to make this financially advantageous to you. If, after one year you decide to terminate our agreement, we’ll pay you a two million dollar bonus and wish you well.” Taking a breath, Abby looked at Peter, waiting for an answer.
    “I appreciate the faith you have placed in me. And your offer is very intriguing. But I must say, Abby, I have a small problem agreeing to something like this with someone whose eyes I cannot even see.” Peter made his remarks with a smile, but they could hear a sticking point.
    Jose made a quick decision. Abby’s change wasn’t nearly as far along as his. They weren’t in direct sunlight. She might get away with it. So, thinking quickly, he grinned smoothly and said, “Peter, I’m so sorry, sometimes we forget. Most of my family members inherited a propensity for a form of congenital conjunctivitis. It is