It seemed logical to start in New York, so she tried the first. And listened to the off-hours message.
“Okay, shit. What the hell time is it in France? Damn it, computer, what the hell time is it in Paris, France?
Working… The current time in Paris, France, is fifteen-twenty-three and six seconds.
“Great.” She highlighted Costumes Historiques Authentiques, engaged the translator, and started there.
She bounced from reception to a low-level assistant, bounced from there to someone in public relations, and finally hit the assistant to the assistant of accounts.
The way the woman had her zebra-striped hair piled reminded Eve of Trina. Her back went immediately stiff.
“And how may I assist you this afternoon, Mademoiselle Dallas?”
“Lieutenant Dallas, New York Police and Security Department.”
The smug smile hit Trina notes. Eve’s ears began to buzz.
“Of course. How can I help you?”
“There have been two murders in New York—”
“Ah, that is very unfortunate.”
“Right. The first victim was dressed to replicate Vermeer’sGirl with a Pearl Earring.”
“How interesting.”
“I have the breakdown of fabrics used and the organic dye.”
“So very thorough.”
Even translated, the words dripped sarcasm.
“The second victim was dressed to replicate Gainsborough’sThe Blue Boy. We also have the fabrics and dyes analyzed.”
“Well done.”
Suddenly, Eve wanted to use her perfectly good fist to punch the condescending smile off the woman’s face.
“I need to know if you have a client who placed orders for these two costumes, with these fabrics and dyes used to create them.”
“I’m sorry to inform you, mademoiselle, I’m unable to assist you in this matter. Our client information is strictly private. You also have laws for privacy in New York, do you not?”
“The individual who had these costumes made has murdered two people, and I believe he’ll kill again.”
“Of course, this is tragic, yes, but I am unable to share any client information.”
Eve took a breath, signaled Peabody to wait when her partner came to the door. “You could check, see if you do have a client who ordered these two costumes. Then you could tell me yes or no. You have such a client, or you don’t.”
There came that damn Trina smile again.
“I believe this is—how do you say—skirting a line? We at Costumes Historiques Authentiques take our responsibilities very seriously.”
“So do I. I can get an international warrant for the information.”
“Please feel free to do so. We will, of course, consult our attorneys and cooperate fully if advised to do so. Please enjoy the rest of your day. I wish you goodbye.”
“Son of a bitch!”
