Chapter 75: Chapter 75

“Yes, it was kind of scary. He coped. He took a deep breath and got on with settling her in the house. I was very proud of the way he handled it, yet it bothered me that he did not rail and rant.”

“I told you they called him the Ice Man at the Shore. Jim believes Brian internalizes his feelings,” said Reed. “That’s a straight path to an ulcer.”

“It is also a path to nervous collapse. Is there anything I should know about this evening?” Bear asked.

“Yeah, you need to talk to Tom Martino. He is in the bar.

I spoke to him today on the phone, and he came over tonight deliberately to see you.”

“Let’s take this to the bar and see what Tom has to say. Is Jim Boy available?” Bear asked.

“Yes,” Reed answered. “I sent for him as soon as I saw your car in the driveway. You brought out the Cobra, a huge treat to give a boy who doesn’t wear your collar.”

“It was well-deserved,” Bear said roughly.