On Monday, Stone called CommanderChoi.
“Mr. Barrington, if you’re looking for an update, I’m afraid there’s nothing more than I’ve already told you.”
“Actually, I’m wondering if you’d have any objections to a submarine checking out the wreck.”
“I don’t know if you’re aware, but the Coast Guard doesn’t have submarines.”
“So I’ve been told. The thing is, I might have access to one. If that turns out to be true, would it be a problem if someone went down to take a look?”
“In principle, I love the idea. But I’ll have to run it up my chain of command. May I get back to you?”
“Of course.”
As Stone hung up, Joan entered his office and tapped her wrist. “Ticktock.”
He frowned. “And?”
“Partners’ meeting? If you don’t leave now, you won’t make it.”
He checked the time, saw that she was right, then hopped out of his chair and grabbed his things.
“Fred?” he asked.
“Out front.”
As Stone hurried to the door, he said, “Call Bill Eggers. Tell him I might be a few minutes late.”
“I already did,” Joan called after him.
The partners’ meeting stretched throughlunch, which meant Stone didn’t return to his Turtle Bay office until after two.
As he was stepping out of his car, a cab pulled up behind the Bentley, and Peter, Ben, and a beautiful dark-haired woman, who looked vaguely familiar, climbed out.
“Hi, Dad,” Peter said. He walked over and gave Stone a hug. “Looks like we have good timing.”
Stone smiled. “Perfect, I’d say. But to what do I owe this surprise visit?”
Peter turned to his companions. “Ben and I were having lunch with Josie Hale, and I happened to mention that Matilda Stone was my grandmother. Turns out Josie’s a big fan.”
“Huge,” the woman said. She stuck her hand out. “Josie Hale, in case you hadn’t figured that out yet.”
Stone shook her hand. “I was starting to connect the dots. A pleasure to meet you.”
“The pleasure is all mine, Mr. Barrington.”
“Please, it’s Stone.”
“And I’m Josie.” She leaned in and stage-whispered, “Peter tells me you have several of your mother’s paintings.”
“Peter’s right. Would you like to see them?”
“Very much!”
“Then come inside.”
He led them into the offices first to drop off his things.
“Peter, Ben!” Joan said. She jumped up out of her chair and hurried over, Bob trotting happily behind her, then gave each of them a hug. “I haven’t seen either of you in ages.”
