"If I can—of course. Would you like to come in?" Oliver entered an immaculate apartment. Parakeets and finches were hopping back and forth in large cages near the windows.
"I'm going on a short trip—three days, maybe four, next weekend. I need someone to look after Verdi, feed him, and let him out once a day. I know it's a nuisance . . ."
"But I like Verdi. It will be no trouble. When are you leaving?"
"Friday."
"No problem. Would you like a drink? We don't get to chat often."
"Sure."
"Let me see. I have ale and, of course, the hard stuff."
"You wouldn't have any Glenlivet, by any chance?"
Arlen smiled. "Would Laphroiag do?"
"Damn, Arlen. I'll choke it down. Yes."