Irene closed her book and stared at the older Van Holtz.
“I don’t dislike him. But that was recent. I used to not like him but he’s been very kind since I’ve been here. So now I like him. I’d almost say we are friendly…but perhaps that’s too big a leap at this stage.”

He gave a soft laugh. “I see. Are you always this…uh…”

“Brutally honest?”
“I was going to say direct, but brutally honest works as well.”
“Yes. I am. And I know—it’s a character flaw.”
“Not at all. I love honest people.”
“Everyone says that…until I say something they don’t like. Then I’m a bitch.

Autore: Shelly Laurenston