By the angle of the sun, it was getting late. I didn’t want to, but I figured I should probably check my messages. I turned on my phone, and dozens buzzed through. I was looking them over when the sheriff called. "Where the hell are you?”
"Having lunch.”
“With whom?”
"Is that any of your business?"
“Wild…”
“I’m engaging in public relations.”
“Public relations?”
“After the fiasco at the gala, I thought it best to reassure the residents of this fine city that the county is doing everything it can to keep them safe.”
“What kind of bullshit are you trying to spin?”
“I’m having lunch with Catalina Navarro.” I smiled at her and winked.
“Wild, that woman has enough money to finance a campaign for another sheriff, mayor, and every other city official. Try not to piss her off.”
“You got it, boss.”
He groaned. “Don’t forget, you’ve got a murder to solve and suspects to interview. Finish yourlunchand get back to work.”
“Aye-aye, Captain,” I said before ending the call.
“Is that your boss?” Catalina asked.
"Technically, I'm a volunteer. I don't have a boss. But I like to make him feel like he's in charge."
Catalina laughed.
"I really enjoyed spending the day with you. Thank you for everything. The hamburger was delicious. I should probably get back to work."
She made a pouty face. "And we haven't even gotten wet yet.”
The way she said it could ignite forest fires.
"I guess we'll just have to do it again."
She smiled. "I can think of worse things.”
I thanked her again and excused myself. I pushed away from the table, returned to the guest room, and changed back into street clothes.
Catalina met me at the front door on my way out. "Do stay in touch."
"Count on it.”
I walked back to the Porsche with a little extra pep in my step. The day had certainly gotten off to a good start. Catalina was the kind of woman who could lift your spirits, among other things.
I hopped into the Porsche, fired up the flat six, and drove back to the marina at Diver Down. I found JD at the bar, shooting the breeze with Harlan and Teagan.
"There he is," Teagan said when I walked in the door.
Jack craned his neck over his shoulder. "My car better be in one piece."
"It still runs," I said, joining him. "I left you the keys for the bike.”
