“About?”
“It’s been almost twenty years since Misty went missing and Ventura has been retired for twelve years.”
“You might be surprised. Maybe it was one of those cases he always wanted to solve,” said McGaven.
“We'll soon find out,” she said, turning into the parking lot of the Pine Valley Senior Living Residence.
Katie had never paid much attention to the building and was surprised by how big it was. It was one of those places you pass and not think about it—plain but well maintained. There were four floors with both elevators and stairs. The grounds were pristine, with beautifully landscaped areas, benches placed, and a nice walking area that weaved around the facility.
The detectives got out of the car. Residents were walking about while others were in small groups chatting or playing board games.
“This seems to be a nice place,” said McGaven. He casually looked around.
“I’m sure pricey too,” Katie said.
“What floor?”
“Third. Apartment 310”
Katie walked toward an open patio area that led to offices and services mostly on the first floor. The building made a large “C” shape. There was a barber shop, beauty spa, and other amenities. Katie casually checked out the area as they headed to a stairway. They climbed to the third floor. The walkway had been installed with indoor–outdoor carpeting, making it not slippery in any kind of weather.
“This way,” said Katie.
The detectives headed down the hallway until they reached apartment 310. There was a small printed sign on it reading: “Ventura, G.” Katie knocked.
They’d only waited about thirty seconds when the door opened.
“Yes?” said a short man. He appeared to be in his seventies and was wearing golf attire of a polo shirt and shorts. His hair was pure white, but he still kept it cut short in a military style. There was an intense gaze of a police officer in his dark blue eyes. He gave the detectives aonce-over.
“Gino Ventura?” said Katie.
“Let me guess. You’re from Pine Valley Sheriff’s Department?”
“Yes, sir,” said McGaven.
“Detectives, I presume?” Ventura said, more strength in his voice.
“Yes. I’m Detective Scott and this is my partner, Detective McGaven,” Katie said.
“I see. Nice to meet you both.” Ventura took a hard look at McGaven. “I guess detectives are a lot taller these days.”
“Not really,” said Katie with a smile. “But I got lucky and my partner’s the tallest in the detective division.”
Ventura quickly crinkled a smile and laughed. “So am I to assume that you have some questions about one of my cases?”
“Yes, we do,” said Katie.
Ventura opened the door wider. “Well, then come in.”
The detectives went inside. Katie was surprised at how neat and organized the small apartment was. It was modestly decorated with an entire wall devoted to family and police-department photographs. She noticed there were several photos in a grouping of a lovely woman, which she assumed to be Ventura’s wife.
“Please make yourself at home.”
They all moved to the area with a small sofa and an overstuffed chair. It was clear Ventura always sat in the chair, so the detectives took a place on the couch.
“I don’t get many visitors, so please excuse my manners. Would you like some coffee?”
“No thank you. We’re fine,” she said.
