Jerry croaked. “All those in favor?” They were all in favor. Everyone but Les fled from the restaurant. Jerry had never seen Gary move so fast, while Mike looked as guilty as someone who’d just been caught robbing a bank. Hank muttered something about brake oil while Pete mumbled, “Sorry” and fled. Les took one look at Aurora’s murderous expression, grabbed his coffee mug and headed to the safety of a counter stool. Jerry wanted to do the same thing, but he sat frozen in place. “You can’t do this,” Aurora said. “I didn’t do it.” He rubbed his face with his hands. How fast can I get to L.A.? “You’re the mayor. You’re supposed to be in charge.” “Jeez, Aurora.” He actually felt faint. “I’m not king.” “It’s illegal. I’m calling my lawyer.” “Your permit wasn’t denied.” There was a midafternoon flight out of Billings.
