Son of Stone (Stone Barrington 21)

“Vance never had a publicist.”

“He had the studio, and they have a whole publicity department.”

“You’re right.”

“If we were in L.A. they could handle it for us, but they’re probably too far away. But things have been quiet, since Joan brushed the woman off, so we probably don’t need to do anything about publicity, until Peter is a famous director.”

“Then he can get his own publicist. Oh, a delivery truck has just pulled up outside; I have to go. I love you!”

“Wait a minute!”

“Yes?”

“How did it go with Timothy Rutledge?”

“I managed very well, thank you. Bye-bye!”

“I love you, too,” Stone said, but she had hung up.

Peter arrived at the Brasserie ten minutes early, was given a booth with a view of the front door, and sat down and waited nervously. Hattie was ten minutes late, and Peter had already had a glass of iced tea and needed to go to the bathroom.

He went to meet her as she descended the stairs from the door and escorted her to their booth.

“I really liked your film,” she said, as she slid into her side of the table, “and I already have some ideas about what the score could sound like.”

“Wonderful!” he said.

“Do you have a piano at your house?”

“Yes, but I’m not sure it’s in tune. That’s all right, though, I have an electronic keyboard.”

“Do you play?”

“Sort of. I amuse myself with it sometimes.”

They were brought menus and studied them carefully.

“What would you like?” he asked.

“I’ll have the eggs Benedict,” she replied.

“Good idea. So will I.”

They ordered, and Peter sat back in his seat and looked at her. “It’s the first time I’ve seen you when you weren’t in profile,” he said.

“And what is your opinion?” she asked, archly.

“Very high,” he said. “I have a high opinion.”

“That was just the right thing to say,” she said, blushing a little.

They seemed stuck for words for a moment, so Peter said, “Excuse me, I have to go to the men’s room.”

And he did.

40

Kelli Keane sat at the bar at the Brasserie and toyed with her lunch. She had spotted Peter Barrington the moment he entered the restaurant, and he had made it obvious that he was waiting for someone. Kelli was delighted with the coincidence that she and Peter had chosen the same restaurant. She had been working too hard at this, she thought, and she deserved a break.