"On that note," Jed Whitlow said, "I'd say it's time for lunch. Tonight we'll barbecue," he told everyone, and glanced at Max and Regan. "The first night of these meetings we like to relax with a good meal and a glass of bourbon. Or whatever your alcohol of choice is."

"Sounds good to us," Max told him.

Anna Whitlow pushed back her chair and stood up. "As usual, we've had everything else catered. It will only take a few minutes to get it all on the table."

"I ...