�She�s legit, and she remembers you. But, she didn�t send any orderlies in to bathe you. She was surprised you were gone. By the way, she sends her regards, said you two had a special relationship.� Diane glanced down to Denby�s hospital-issue pants with a slight smirk, then studied Denby�s face. He looked down and rubbed his temples with one hand. She could have sworn he looked embarrassed. But there was a hint of a smile, too. With Denby, you could never tell.

�Diane, once again, I find myself in need of your assistance. I can�t seem to get these bozos in here to believe I�m in real danger. They are clinging to their theory that my vision of the world is skewed, and that I might even have killed the nurse myself. Even I know the physical evidence doesn�t support their theory. You�re the only one who can convince them otherwise.�

�Nice jammies. Do you have any civvies around?�

�No, I�m afraid my liberties have been somewhat restricted since I�ve checked into the Hotel California here.�

�The department hasn�t processed your suspension yet. If I agree to help Bob Martinez spring you, will you agree to help me track down Jill?�

�Diane, are you suggesting that we become partners? I find this offer intriguing.� Harry thought about that waiting room with its dull recovering inmates. Relieved to be free of that fate, and of course, his imminent death, Harry agreed.

�I only have three conditions, Denby.�

�Oooh boy, here it comes.�

�You have to attend AA meetings while you are outside. Either with me or with Andy.�

�No. Absolutely not.�

�And you have to remain with one of us 24/7. No solo jaunts. That means you have to live with Danny or me.�

�And the third?�

�Take a wild guess.�

�No intoxication of any kind.�

�You�re a smart boy, Denby.� Diane watched his face intently. �So, are you in?�

�I don�t appear to have much of a choice in the matter. Either your conditions or certain death? Well, I�ll accept your offer, but I won�t have a good attitude about it.�