Excerpt: Dead Gorgeous

The man behind the desk was obviously a Stalling but not like any Stalling Connor had ever seen. The hair and eyes were right, but the smile and goofball cockatoo were jarring. The man rose at their entrance and the bird hopped up on his shoulder.
“Hello!” said the bird.
“Hi,” said the man. “Call me Gavin. I understand your brother married my cousin.” He stuck his hand out. “Welcome to the family.”
The cockatoo nodded. “Welcome, welcome--“
Gavin shook his head. “Shut up, bird,” he said pleasantly. He shook Connor’s hand and grinned at Jacey, brows waggling. “Nice,” he said. “Want to be my secretary? I’ll double what he’s giving you.”
Jacey stroked Connor’s arm. “I don’t think you can.”
Gavin laughed easily, eyes dancing. “Maybe not, but when you get tired of him, love--I can make it worth your while.”
Connor cleared his throat. “I’m looking for an office,” he said, forcing Gavin to look in his direction.
“For family,” said Gavin. “Sure. I can cut you a deal. I’ll show you what we have.”