“This conversation is over,” Petty said. “Think about my offer. While you can.”
“You’re kinda fun,” I said. I smiled up at the security guys and stood. “No problems here, fellas.”
Petty nodded at them. They took me by the arms, one on each side.
“Oh,” I said. “It’s like that.”
My origins aren’t pleasant. My father was one of the more savage species of beings on the planet. I had a sudden and violent urge to start snapping off hands at the wrists. Maybe with my teeth.
But I pay The Rent for a reason, so that I have a choice.
I chose to stay calm and let them walk me out.
Outside, I got on the phone. I was shaking a little from adrenaline. I don’t like it when hands get laid on me without my permission.
“What else did you get?” I asked Viti.
“It’s only been two hours, Grey,” Viti said with a sigh.
“But what else did you get?”
There was a moment of piqued silence. Then Viti said, “It would appear that Mr.Petty has recently become a gambler. He’s placed a number of large bets on sporting events in the past six months.”
“How’s he doing?”
“If what I’ve found is representative, he’s down five percent,” she said.
“So, he’s having money troubles recently,” I said. “Hoping for a lucky windfall?”
“That seems plausible.”
“Huh. I wonder if he cut Sheryl off for reasons other than marital issues.”
“Finding out more on his financials will take more time,” Viti said. She knew a lot about information system security. She wouldn’t be getting it legally.
“Well. Keep on it. Oh, and let me know if you come across the name Cameron, Camille, Camden, anything that would shorten to Cammy.”
“ ‘Cammy’ is not shorter than ‘Camden.’ ”
“Fine,” I sighed. “Anything that might familiarize to Cammy.”
“Why?”
“He’s seeing someone by that name, and it might tell me something.”
I heard her writing it down. “Understood. What is your plan?”
“I believe I’ll talk to the help.”
I lurked about outside until the barista got off her shift. She came out and started walking toward the nearest El station. I came hurrying up to her and said, “Hello, miss. Would it be all right if I spoke to you?”
She glanced at me and frowned. College-age girl, brown hair, a little taller than average. “Oh…you’re from earlier, right? They kicked you out?”
“I’m sure their hearts weren’t in it,” I said, grinning. I offered her my hand. “My name is Jake. I’m a private investigator.”
“Oh,” she said, shaking. “I’m Tracy. Um. I had to sign an NDA when I got hired at the club.”
Of course she had.
