They stood at the door, both hesitant to enter. Finally Deakins said, "Get in here, you two. Sit."

Goren waited till Eames was seated to take a chair.

"So Friday's my last day," Deakins said. His voice was brusque; his eyes were bright and wet. "They're having a wake for me at Jack Pelley's Restaurant in Chelsea."

Goren swallowed hard. Eames stared at the floor.

"That's a joke! Hey," Deakins said, "I'll be okay. I even have a job offer. It's just..."

They finally looked up at him. One tear had escaped. "I'll miss working with you guys."


.