I could do much better . . .

“Please,” I say, “I would like to believe that if I were trying to flatter you I could come with something better than ‘I don’t have your brainpower.’ ”

Cassey tilts her head and looks at me, “Really? What would you say, if you were trying to flatter me?”

I get up out of my chair. “If I were trying to flatter you…” I pause and think for a second, “I would say something like, ‘The stars of your namesake should run and hide, for they sparkle less brightly than the light in your eyes.’ ”

She blushes, smiles, and brings her hand up to her cheek. “Whisper, I believe that you have confused ‘flatter’ and ‘charm.’ ”

“Did I? Well, as I said, I’m not as smart as you.”

Cassey rolls her eyes, shakes her head, and changes the subject, “You recognized my name? I didn’t think very many layman here in America would know of it.”

“As a kid I used to love stargazing, my grandmother told me about all the constellations, Cassiopeia included ”

“You don’t do it anymore?”

I turn my head toward the window. “You really can’t see much here in the city.”

“Too bad,” She looks at her watch, “I can’t believe how late it is already. Well, I’ve taken up enough of your time. I should get going.” She heads for the door.

I walk with her and tell her to come by tomorrow and we can work more on the case, she agrees and I open the door for her. She pauses as she’s walking out, turns toward me and asks, “Whisper, would like to get a drink?”