Fresco felt the man's hand settle on his shoulder as Strom smiled at him so kindly he smiled back.

"It's great to see you," Strom said. "You look wonderful, Fresco."

Parker's eyes begged him to understand. Strom held her hand. That secret part of him roared in rage while he resigned himself to the truth and nodded once.

"Thank you," he said.

Strom's hand squeezed once and let go. "Parker's been giving you the tour?" His arm slid around her shoulders and ...