Diane and Claire walked into the squad room the next morning and faced the cheering of their team. Danny Sorenson placed a fresh cup of coffee on Diane�s desk with a great flourish. Everyone lifted their mugs in a toast.

�To Dupont,� said Danny, �A hearty thank-you for the Kevlar.�

�To Dupont,� everyone sighed reverently, then took a sip of coffee.

�Oh, and, uh, one more thing,� Danny continued. �I am having a New Year�s celebration at my apartment. I would like you all to come, and feel free to bring a friend with you.�

Danny looked over to Diane to see if her face would indicate she would be dateless. Claire stole a sideways glance at Diane to see if she was thinking of bringing Harry. Diane studied her papers. She wasn�t giving anything away.

As soon as Andy and Danny went out on a call, Claire sauntered over to Diane as casually as she could manage.

�So, Diane, you thinking about bringing my cousin?� Claire whispered.

�I�m thinking about it,� Diane admitted.

�Well, don�t. Just don�t,� Claire begged. �Don�t even tell him about the party.�

�Claire, I don�t think keeping secrets is a good idea��

�Just trust me on this one. Don�t invite him, and don�t even tell him about it.�

�Why not?�

�Just trust me on this one, partner. I know what I�m talking about.�

�You have to know, Claire, that I don�t buy that. I need a good reason.�

�How about this. Harry doesn�t do good at New Year�s parties.�

�You think he�ll make a scene?�

�Yes,� Claire sighed.

�Thank you. I appreciate that.�