Chapter 17

Today was definitely a day to lunch at Michael’s, but not because of the California-sunny decor or the mouthwatering menu. The restaurant was a media hangout, known for the power lunching that went on within its spacious layout.

The KEY to America executive producer and his lunch companion were shown to a table near the front of the room. Linus enjoyed being up front. This way everyone who entered or exited the restaurant had to pass by, nodding acknowledgment or stopping to exchange pleasantries. They had arrived later than usual today, but there still were enough diners willing to pay homage.

“Helluva job with that anthrax story this morning, Linus.”

“Way to go, buddy. That was damn fine television.”

“Congratulations to both of you. You really provided a public service.”

Linus basked in the praise as the salads arrived at the table.

“You see, John? You’re a hero. Maybe these guys didn’t know who you were before, but you’ve made a name for yourself now.”

Lee took a sip from his wineglass. “I’m not feeling like a hero after that meeting with Yelena.”

“Don’t worry about Yelena. She’ll come around when she sees that this was all good for KEY News.”

“I’d feel better if you told her the truth, Linus.”

The executive producer frowned. “Hey, we agreed, didn’t we? I had to veto the plan in front of her at the meeting. If I had gone to Yelena ahead of time and told her what we were going to do, there was no guarantee she would have gone for it. It was good for the show and good for your career, and that’s all we have to concern ourselves with.”

“Still, I wish you would have told her that you knew about everything beforehand.”

If wishes were horses, beggars would ride. The old adage flew through Linus’s mind. No, he was glad everything had played out exactly as he had planned.

Linus speared a piece of blackened chicken with his fork. “Let’s not send each other any more e-mails on this subject, John. We can’t be too careful. From now on, we’ll only talk about this face-to-face.”