The atmosphere in Ginty’s was nearly as dark as Dusty Williams’ mood. Hunched over the scotch in front of him, he peered at his hazy reflection in the shiny wood counter. In the midst of wondering if he had time to change jobs before tomorrow, he gave the trendy bar the onceover. A first-timer to the place, Dusty had come here tonight for a self-pity drink or two. Wouldn’t do to be hungover—in addition to the problems caused by his already abrasive personality—for tomorrow’s presentation. He’d zeroed in on Ginty’s tonight like a long-sought destination, bypassing others more familiar to him. Maybe he’d wanted the anonymity more than he realized.

Dusty longed to…….