The Greatest Lie Part 18

"I am happy to have such a perceptive and loyal fan. But I am a little embarrassed of my notoriety, to be spotted on a plane."

"Don't worry. Remember, I had about twelve hours to think about it. I didn't make the connection until we were over Denver. Will you give me your number?"

I looked down at the circle of white skin left by his wedding ring. "Are you sure your wife won't mind?"

"She and the kids are at the villa in Tuscany for two more weeks. I had to fly back for some meetings this week. So I own my evenings for now. Could I own one of yours?"

Ronaldo hadn't yet joined the team, and he and Rafaela were vacationing in Turkey. I bit my lip demurely.

"I'm really busy. I've got to find cars, a condo, and furniture for my boss and for me. I have a regular job, and am not here to escort. My boss won't allow it, and your American laws are too strict for me to risk my visa."

"I'm sorry. That was very improper on my part. I was just coining a phrase."

"Yes, but the phrases we choose matter, don't they? Your First Amendment doesn't protect solicitation, does it?"

"You're right, of course, and I apologize. But if you give me another, chance, I can help you. I know everybody who's anybody in the LA real estate business. And anything else I give you, you can think of it as a welcome home gift, not payment."

He was good looking, and incredibly charming and persuasive. I hesitated, and he took it as affirmation.

"As a guideline, let's use your European rates with Euros converted to dollars at the exchange rate quoted in tomorrow's 'Wall Street Journal."

"OK, but with the understanding that everything is on a voluntary and philanthropic basis."

"Spoken like a lawyer."

"I want to be a lawyer some day."

He smiled and whispered in my ear. "Whores and lawyers have much in common. Our hourly rates, our loyalties, and our moral codes have more similarities than either of us would probably like to admit."