She shrugged. “Two, maybe three hours to convert the CT scan to an STL file, maybe a day to cast the skull. How about late Monday?”
“Fantastic.”
“You look shocked.”
I was. “I thought you’d say a week or two.”
“This project sounds more interesting than hearing aid housings.”
“And the Guatemalan police will be eternally grateful.”
“Any cute ones down there?”
I pictured Galiano’s lopsided face.
“There is one.”
“What about the
I pictured Ryan.
“Pecos Bill’s been keeping a low profile.”
“Anyway, I’ll do your skull myself.” She held up a long, slender finger. “On one condition.”
“Dinner and drinks on me.” I laughed. “Tomorrow night?”
“Sounds good. Be warned, girlfriend. I’m gonna hit you up for the priciest mineral water on the menu.”
I entered my lobby to the sight of the
“How did you get in here?”
“It’s O.K. I’m a cop.”
I set down my cases and grocery bags.
“All right. Let’s go with why.”
“It’s hot outside.”
I waited.
Ryan sat up and swung his size twelves to the floor.
“These things aren’t designed for beings over six foot two.”
“It’s a decorative piece.”
“Would be hell for watching the Stanley Cup finals.”
“It’s not intended for lounging.”
“What’s it good for?”
“Collecting mislabeled mail, drugstore circulars, and back issues of the newspaper.”
“This lobby isn’t exactly visitor friendly.” Ryan rubbed the back of his neck.
“There are the potted palms.”
He gave me his forty-something schoolboy grin. “Missed you.”
“I got in yesterday.”
“I’ve been on a stakeout.”
“Oh?”
Through the door I heard muted beeps and engine revs. Friday evening rush hour was winding down.
“Owner of a dive called Les Deux Orignals decided to expand into the small-arms business. Guess the two moose made him nervous.”
“You never told me you speak Spanish.”
“What?”
“Never mind.”
I picked up my parcels.
“It’s been a long day, Ryan.”
“How about dinner tomorrow night?”
“I’ve made plans.”
“Change them.”
“That would be rude.”
“How about dinner tonight?”
“I just bought shrimp and veggies.”
