“Oh my,' Myron said to Hadrian as he twisted to get a better view. 'I don't even think of horses when I look at her.”

“As they climbed into their saddles, Myron bowed his head and muttered a soft prayer.“There,” Hadrian told Royce, “we’ve got Maribor on our side. Now you can relax.”“Actually,” Myron said sheepishly, “I was praying for the horses. But I will pray for you as well,” he added hastily.”

“Oh, Randall, don't be such a vile beast!""I don't think much of that",he said critically. "Amiable snake was much better.”

“All I'm saying is I think you deserve better,” Case said. “From my point of view, anyway. You deserve better.”I threw my head back on the sofa and laughed. It was a harsh laugh with no mirth. “Most of the time, I don't think I deserve better.”“Everyone deserves better.”“Not me.” I didn't look at him. “No one else would want me. I've royally fucked up. Everything. There isn't anything better out there. Anything or anyone.”“Yeah, there is.” “Oh, really?” I brought my eyes back to him. “And where exactly would I find better?” It was quiet for a moment. Then he said,“Well, you might start with me.”

“I see you looking at my cookies,' my father said to Morelli. 'Don't even think about it. Go get your own cookies.”

“Sabina." Vinca said interrupting my maudlin thoughts."Hmmm..."She rolled her eyes. "I said, don't you think Adam looks nice tonight."I shook myself. "I guess so," I said with a shrug."Oh, stop," he said. "You're going to make me blush.”