She turned to him with moist eyes. "He says that every year, and it always gets to me."
"Understandable."
"I barely remember my dad, you know. I was six when he died. It feels like I know him more through other people's stories than through my memories. That seems wrong."
"It seems right, too."
She gave him a watery smile. "I really hate being emotional."
"Afraid it makes you look weak?"
"Yes," she said honestly. "In my line of work, female tears are not an asset."
"Well, you're not working now, and I'm not judging you."
She tipped her head. "You're a nice guy for a spook."
"Not a spook anymore."
"We should get going. Get back to work."
"Whenever you're ready."
Before she could say she was ready, her uncle slid into the booth across from them.
"Haven't had much of a chance to talk to you," he said. "Are you having fun?"
"Yes," Kara said. "And thanks for saying that about my dad."
"I meant every word." Danny paused. "This isn't party conversation, but since we're alone for a minute. I've been thinking about you since the explosion in Midtown yesterday. Same bomber?" he asked.
"I think so," she said. "But we're still digging into it all. Do you know anything about it?"
"The building is owned by Wexler Properties. They have had a couple of fires in the last ten years and have gotten a reputation for cutting corners during construction."
"Were those fires explosions?" she asked.
"Not deliberately set as far as I know, but you should look into the company. The Meridien Tower fire had numerous casualties."
"Meridien Tower," she murmured. "I remember that fire. It was a while ago."
"Seven or eight years, I think," Danny agreed. "I'd look into Wexler."
"I've already reached out to their executive team. They're on their way back from a meeting in Japan, so hopefully I'll be able to speak to them soon."
"I'm not sure I'm giving you much to go on. A bomb is different than a construction defect, but maybe someone had it in for them."
"Maybe. But Wexler has nothing to do with the café, so it's hard to say."
"You'll figure it out. You're a smart woman," Danny said. "I have confidence."
"Thanks."
As a roar came from a crowd near a dart game, he said, "I better go show the kids how it's done."
She smiled. "Keep them humble."
"Always," he said with a laugh.
