Katie had dealt with this particular type before and knew how she was going to handle David Young. She would wait and see if he had any weaknesses, something that would identify his soft spot—if there was one.
She looked at Young. He watched her, never averting his gaze. He was handcuffed and they were affixed to the table. He leaned forward in a casual position, but looked as if he could strike at any moment.
“Mr. Young, thank you for seeing us today,” she said. “I’m Detective Scott and this is my partner, Detective McGaven.”
Young didn’t reply. He gave McGaven a once-over and then his focus came back to Katie.
“We are conducting an investigation where you might have some information that would help us,” she said, keeping her demeanor calm and collected.
Young stared at her.
“Mr. Young, do you understand?”
He began to laugh. “Of course. And no need to be so formal, Detective.” His expression softened immensely at this, giving him more of a friendly appearance.
“Okay,” she said.
“What is this investigation?”
Katie knew he was trying to turn the tables, trying to be in charge of the conversation. “Do you remember your neighbors the Collinses?”
Immediately that hit a hot button with him and his voice changed tone. “What do you want to know about them?”
“It has been brought to our attention that you might have been a witness to something when you were a kid. Is that true?”
“Where did you get such a notion?”
“Is it true you saw Mr. Collins hurt someone?” Katie wasmindful not to reveal too much—she was afraid he might clam up.
“Oh, I see,” he said and leaned back as best as he could.
“See what?”
“I see what you’re doing. Have you spoken to my brother?”
“Your brother?”
“Yeah, little Ray-Ray.”
Katie realized he was referring to Buck. It was a good sign he’d used a nickname that seemed like a familiar term of endearment. “Why don’t you tell me about him?”
“I have a brother, Raymond.”
“And where does Raymond live?” she said.
He dramatically shrugged. “Beats me.”
“When was the last time you spoke to him?” She glanced at McGaven who shifted his weight, taking a step closer to the table.
Young glanced over. “Do you bring your bodyguard with you everywhere you go?”
Katie knew he was trying to divert her question. “Don’t need one. When did you last see your brother?”
“I haven’t.”
“What do you mean?”
“I saw him before he went into the Marines, but after… he didn’t want me to see him.” He looked down and then back to Katie.
