Michele Martinez - The Finishing School

His eyes filled with tears, and they hugged.

DAN WAS WAITING outside with the engine running and the heat on.

“You told Trevor about dropping the charges?” he asked as she sank into the passenger seat, pulling her heavy coat tight around her.

“Yes. He was very happy. It was a nice Christmas present to be able to give him. Speaking of -what the heck is that in the backseat?”

There was a huge teddy bear wearing a Santa hat in the back of Dan’s car.

“Well, you invited me over for dinner. I’m a little nervous about meeting Maya again, since she didn’t seem too keen on me last time.”

“She was sick, silly.”

“Whatever. I’m not taking any chances. I know better than to show up empty-handed. Chicks always dig a gift.”

She giggled. “Not me. I’m not materialistic like that.”

“No?”

“Nope.”

“Okay, then I won’t give you the thing I got you.”

“You got me something? Really? That is so sweet!”

“Yeah, but since you’re not materialistic, you don’t need it.”

“Hey, come on, don’t be that way! What is it?”

“I’m not telling.”

“ Where is it?”

He lifted his arms and gave her a million-dollar smile. “Somewhere on my person.”

“Oh, you want me to pat you down? You sure?” she said.

“Yes, ma’am.”

“You have no idea what you’re in for.”

“Bring it on, Melanie Vargas. Life’s short. Let’s not waste another second.”

A graduate of Harvard University and Stanford Law School, Michele Martinez worked at a prestigious Manhattan law firm before serving eight years as a federal prosecutor. She lives in New York City with her husband and two children.

Visit www.AuthorTracker.com for exclusive information on your favorite HarperCollins authors