Would have been up on the dais.
I kept thinking about it as I sat there, wanting to see it another way.
Then Stephanie came out of the store and I knew I couldn't.
Satisfied smile on her face.
No books in her hand either.
She looked up and down the block the same way he had.
Big plans for Dr. Eves.
Rat jumping onto a sinking ship?
I'd driven over intending to show her the Insuject cartridges.
Ready to study her reaction, declare her innocent and make her a part of tomorrow night's confrontation of Cindy Jones.
Now, I didn't know where she stood. Milo's first suspicions of her began to solidify. Something wrong something off.
I lowered my head again.
She began walking. In the same direction he had.
Came to the corner, looked to the right. Where he'd gone.
She lingered there for a while. Still smiling. Finally crossed the street and kept going.
I waited until she was out of sight, then drove away. The moment I cleared the space, someone zipped in.
First time all day I'd felt useful.
When I got home, just before five, I found a note from Robin saying she'd be working late unless I had something else on my mind. I had plenty, but none of it included fun. I called her, got a machine and told her I loved her and that I'd be working too. Though as I said it, I realized I didn't know at what.
I phoned ~rker Center. A nasal, high-pitched male voice answered.
'Records.'
'Detective Sturgis, please.'
'He's not he-ere.'
'When will he be back?'
'Who is this?'
Alex Delaware. A friend.'
He pronounced my name as if it were a disease, then said, 'I have absolutely no idea, Mr. Delaware.'
'Do you know if he's gone for the day?'
'I wouldn't know that either' 'Is this Charlie?' use. Throat clear.
'This is Charles Flannery. Do I know you?'
'No, but Milo's talked about how much you've taught him.'
Longer pause, more throat clears. 'How grand of him. If you're interested in your fiends' schedule, I suggest you call the deputy chief's office.'
