“Don’t worry about it. Alicia?”
“It’s monster traffic all over this damn city,” said Bogomil. “I hit an incredible clog near the Beverly Center but fortunately nothing like what he’s going through. I’m making the turn at Palm Drive, should be there in five.”
“Good for you,” said Binchy, sounding anything but pleased.
Milo said, “Alicia, park as close as you can, even a red zone. Sean, text me when you’re five away.”
Reed entered the patio, swinging his arms. The movement caused the front of his jacket to flap against his massive chest. The bulge of his shoulder holster was visible for an instant; then he rolled his neck and stood up straight and it was gone.
“Anything to be aware of, kid?”
“They got seated right away and served wine without asking for it so I’m figuring regulars.”
“The good life,” said Milo. “As soon as Alicia gets here, we go. Candace knows me so I’ll approach from the north. Alicia will be with me and you’ll come from the back. Go to the bar, order a soda, look cool, and come out behind them. Try to get closer to her because she’s edgy. Sean makes it in time, he’ll be with you.”
“What about Doc?”
“Observing from a safe distance. On the way over, he worked up ideas about how to approach them. Everyone take a listen.”
I said, “With so many people around, the key is to avoid disruption and any sort of collateral damage. Cuff them as soon as possible and once they’re restrained, try to ease them up and out through that little gate in front. Obviously, they’ll be put in separate cars. Read them their rights and switch your phones toRecord.”
Milo said, “Book ’em immediately but don’t get ’em into interview rooms as soon as possible. Alex?”
“Once they’re in the rooms, no pressure, go the soft route, try to give them the illusion of control. But the truth is, none of this may matter. These are sophisticated people. They’re bound to lawyer up.”
Milo said, “The key will be finding evidence at their houses and the gallery. They lawyer up, they’re locked up.”
His phone beeped and a second later so did Reed’s. A brief little electronic duet.
Alicia said, “Driving south on Canon. Can’t see you.”
Milo stuck his head out.
“Okay, now I can—got a nice little red zone right…here.”
Moments later she’d joined us, hair in a tight bun, wearing a black leather jacket, black crewneck, gray skinny jeans, black running shoes. As if she and Reed had color-coordinated. Or the assignment had inspired somber tones in both of them.
Milo said, “You hear everything?”
She said, “I did.”
Another beep. “What’s up, Sean?”
“Moving finally, Loot, but like a snail. I’m stuck behind ten cars at Doheny, every time the light changes it gridlocks.”
“Just stay with it, kid. We’re gonna move in a few.”
“You don’t need me?” said Binchy.
“I always need you. There’ll be plenty to do. This is just the beginning.”
—
Just as we were about to cross Canon, a waiter emerged from the restaurant and placed food before the Kiersteads. Refills of wine, the empty bottle removed.
Sig dug right in, sawing at something and eating with gusto. Candace picked at her plate.
Milo gave Binchy one more try.
