“Huh, interesting,” Gennaro said. “If you can get him alone, I want you to suggest he make himself scarce. Then stay on Barrington.”
“Understood.”
Toomey finished up in the restroom and headed back to the bar, where he was pleased to see that Stefan had left. He shot Gennaro a text telling him as much, then sent a more detailed message to Pinkie and Miguel.
Those tasks complete, he settled back with a glass of cola and waited for Barrington’s next move.
Chapter 33
Fred was waiting at thecurb with the Bentley when Stone and his companions exited Clarke’s.
While Ash flagged down a cab, Sara said to Stone, “Thank you for the wonderful meal. You didn’t have to pick up the tab, though.”
“Of course he did,” Dino said. “You’re his client. Ash is his associate. I’m his best friend. And Tamlyn is—”
“Careful,” Stone said.
“A new friend,” Dino finished.
“I can live with that label,” Tamlyn said.
“Smooth, Dino,” Stone said. “Sara, I’m just happy we were able to celebrate with you.”
A taxi stopped behind the Bentley, and Ash opened the rear door. “Sara?”
“My chariot awaits,” she said. “Good night, everyone.”
She climbed into the cab. Before Ash could do the same, Stone said, “Ash?”
The young lawyer looked back.
“First thing in the morning,” Stone said.
Ash nodded, looking a bit pale. “Yes, sir. First thing.”
After the cab pulled onto the street, the sedan reserved for the police commissioner slid into the vacated space.
Dino said his goodbyes and left Stone and Tamlyn alone.
“Do we need to drop you off back at your office?” Stone asked. “Or can I take you home?”
“Whose home?” she asked.
“If you’re asking my preference, I’d say mine. I haven’t given you the tour yet.”
“You haven’t, have you.” She slipped her arm through his. “Let’s do that.”
He walked her to the open back door of the Bentley.
“Fred, Turtle Bay, please.”
“Yes, Mr. Barrington.”
A few moments after Fredturned the Bentley south onto Second Avenue, he said, “I think someone’s following us again.”
“The same person from the other night?” Stone asked.
“I don’t believe so. It’s a different car and the driver’s silhouette is larger. Also, he’s doing a much better job than our previous tail.”
