Limone couldn’t shake the feeling that there was something enigmatic about Charles.

When faced with her curiosity, Charles answered directly, "Yes, the house you’re living in—it’s his."

That’s what good friends are for, Limone thought, to step in when the knife swings your way.

Charles turned and walked into the private dining room nearby. A waiter entered soon after, bowing slightly and presenting a menu. "Mr. Johnson, here is the ...