Herman's comment made Mr. Walker's face shift, just a flicker, but enough. He knew exactly what Herman was alluding to-there was no question, Herman was here to get justice for Anastasia.

Mr. Walker kept his polite smile, mind spinning as he picked up his coffee and took a sip. "Bitter. This coffee just doesn't hold a candle to tea. Tea starts out bitter, sure, but the more you sit with it, the sweeter it gets."

Herman matched his smile, though it didn't quite reach his eyes. "Tea and coffee aren't even in the same league. Tea's got thousands of years of history. Coffee? Barely a century here, and maybe only popular in the last twenty years."

Mr. Walker nodded. “Exactly. Our tea is still the best. Everything passed down from our ancestors is worth cherishing."

Their chat sounded casual, but every word was a subtle test.

Since Mr. Walker didn't mention the real issue, Herman saw no need to push it. Now, it was all about who could stay patient the longest.

Herman nodded politely. "Absolutely. Tea is a treasure."

But Mr. Walker could see Herman was dodging, refusing to bite, acting clueless. He was starting to get anxious.

Herman might be younger, but his composure and depth were nothing to sneeze

at.

directly, or at least brought up Rowan turning himself

Not

Mr. Walker just couldn't

sip, and Herman said, "Mr. Walker, if coffee's not your thing, how


Walker replied, still smiling. "When in Riverdale, you've got to learn to

his coffee, cool

was

to admit-Herman's

Herman could hold out. Mr. Walker was the one who'd come calling. If anyone was going to bring up Anastasia's kidnapping, it'd have to

Eventually, Mr. Walker cracked.

been stuck at the port. I've already made a few calls-your clearance should come through tomorrow. Shouldn't delay your

Walker." Herman raised his coffee cup. "I'll use coffee instead

That foundation you started? It's saved a lot of sick kids—kept families together. I

"Honestly, before I met

with a chuckle. "You really did marry well. They say a good wife brings luck for generations. Judging

Mr.

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