Chapter 23

Shayne put on an act of shock. She said, "Michael?" in utter disbelief. She assumed a contemplative glare and said, "Why, Michael has never been in love that I can recall," adding later, "Of course, he hasn't been a monk either."

Since this depiction of Michael aligned with how she perceived the man, Estel replied with delight. She said, "Ha!" with triumph. "My guess is that he hasn't! Based on his past, I am unsure if a monastery would even let him come inside for a visit!"

With a furious cluck of outrage, Shayne tossed her golden head. She said, "Oh, Estel," in defense of her boss and friend. "You don't honestly believe all that garbage about Michael, do you? You, of all people, ought to know it was just made up to sell books!"

Estel did not buy it. She laughed and said, "All of it?" "You've just said that he hasn't been a monk."

Although Estel had not yet indicated an interest in coffee, Shayne shrugged and went to the counter to retrieve cups and saucers. "Of course he hasn't,"