Safe. The relief was so intense, she felt almost sick. Shes okay?
Shes worried about you. Shed like to break my neck. But shes okay.
She couldnt talk for a moment. You know that boat to Timbuktu, Logan?
Yes.
I want my mother on it.
Well work on it right away. Will you go with her?
Hell, yes. Get me out of here. No, Ill see you in Kesslers room in fifteen minutes.
I have a copy of the DNA report, Gary said as soon as he opened the door. Wheres Quinn with those comparison samples?
He should be here soon. She looked beyond him to Logan, who was sitting in the chair across the room. Logan told you about Gil Price?
Gary nodded. Not good.
Very bad. Youve done everything you can, Gary. Youve got the report for us. For Gods sake, will you leave now?
When I finish. When I have Quinns samples.
Thats not good enough. We dont need you any-more. Joe can go to the lab and get
No, Duncan. Garys voice was gentle but firm. I finish what I start.
Thats stupid. Youll end up like Gil Price. She whirled on Logan. Tell him.
Ive tried, Logan said. He wont listen.
Like Gil. Gil wouldnt listen either. She drew a deep breath. But you have to listen. Shes going to Two sides of a coin.
What?
Lisa Chadbourne. She phoned me this after-noon.
Logan sat up straight in his chair. What the hell?
She wanted to make a deal with me for the skull.
Why didnt you tell me she called? Logan asked grimly.
Think about it. Were you in a mood to listen? You wouldnt have been reasonable.
I dont feel reasonable now either. Did she threaten you?
In a way.
What kind of way?
She washellip; sad. What difference does it make? she asked impatiently. I just want Gary and my mother out of this. Okay?
Did she say anything to lead you to believe that she knows anything about Bainbridge or your mother?
Of course she didnt. Shes too smart. Shed never give anything away. She turned to Gary. But you have to
The only thing I have to do is call Bubba Blues Barbecue, Gary said. Do you want ribs or steak?
I want you to leave.
Or maybe a pork sandwich?
Garyhellip;
He reached for the phone and started dialing. Give me your order or youll get the ribs.
She gazed at him helplessly. Dammit. Steak.
Good choice.
Joe Quinn arrived at the door thirty minutes after the delivery man from Bubbas brought the food.
Got it. Joe held up the two black thermal bags. How fast can you get a comparison?
She eagerly turned to Gary. Tonight?
He shrugged. Maybe. Ill call Chris and see if I can persuade him to go back to the lab tonight. He wiped the barbecue off his fingers and reached for the telephone. Get out of here. Its going to take some talking. He worked most of last night for me and hes not going to like this.
Joe opened the door. When youre ready to go, Ill drive you to the lab, Gary.
Gary waved an acknowledging hand.
You okay? Joe asked Eve as they walked out.
As good as can be expected. Gil Price was killed.
Joe glanced at Logan. Your friend?
Logan nodded.
