She was silent for a long moment. “We don’t have to be enemies, you know.”
I laughed. “I told you if I found out you were involved in your father’s business, I’d bust you.”
“I’m not mad at you. You were just doing what you thought was right. But apparently, the prosecuting attorney doesn’t agree with your assessment.”
“Give it time.”
“Can we just put all of that aside?”
“Multiple murders. The attempted assassination of a US Senator. Sure. Water under the bridge.”
“Unfounded allegations without a shred of conclusive evidence.”
“Just wait. I’ll get the evidence,” I said with determination.
“That’s what I like about you. Your focus and dedication. Your commitment. It’s admirable. I’ve never met anyone quite like you, Deputy.”
I said nothing.
“We don’t have to hate each other.”
“I don’t hate you. I feel sorry for you.”
“Sorry for me?”
“Sorry that you chose the wrong path. It’s going to lead to one of two outcomes. It always does.”
She sighed. “You know, I liked it when we were on more amorous terms.”
“Well, that’s not going to happen again.”
“But it was so much fun.”
Catalina was an enjoyable woman with enticing qualities when she wasn’t causing mayhem and destruction.
“It wasn’t that special.”
“Now you’re just being mean, and you’re lying. I know you miss me.”
I scoffed.
“I missyou.”
“It’s not going to work.”
“What’s not going to work?”
“This. Your attempt to soften me up. I’m not going to give you a pass. I’m going to put you in jail for the rest of your life.”
“I’m not trying to soften you up. Actually, I like you quite the opposite,” she said in a mischievous voice.
“Catalina…”
“You can talk tough, but you can’t investigate me. With our history, any evidence you gather will be suspect. That’s someone else’s job now. I’m guessing your boss told you to stay away from me.”
“And that’s exactly what I intend to do. You’re trouble.”
“You like trouble.”
