She studied him for another moment before rising from her chair and approaching the couch.
"Stand up."
Ray looked at her with mild curiosity. "Why?"
"Because I'd like to get a better look at you."
He rose without argument, allowing her to circle him slowly before stopping directly in front of him. Up close, he could see the faint lines of tiredness beneath her eyes, carefully concealed beneath expensive cosmetics.
Ressa reached toward his collar, brushing one finger against the polished metal.
"Does it bother you?" she asked unexpectedly.
Ray glanced down at her hand. "Would it make a difference if it did?"
Her expression changed slightly.
"Not legally," she admitted. "But I asked whether it bothered you, not whether I could do anything about it."
Ray considered her for a moment.
"I'd rather not wear it."
Ressa nodded, withdrawing her hand.
