He started shutting down his computers. “Ready to head out?”
She’d had more than enough of the below-ground room. Her stomach had been tied up in knots all afternoon. Once on the main level, she breathed. “Whew, that was crazy intense. Thank you for getting me through that.”
“You did a good job.”
“We still need to search your surveillance for anyone April talked to,” she said.
“That’s gonna be harder,” he replied. “She was a bartender. She talked to everyone.”
“When can we get together next?” she asked.
“I’ll check my schedule and text you.”
It was almost seven and employees were arriving for work. Parker entered the club and his attention flitted from Emerson to Stryker while the color drained from his face.
“Oh, hey, Detective. How’s it goin’, boss?”
This time, Emerson observed more and said very little. Was he a nervous person or did he have something to hide? She made a mental note to run his name through the system.
“I’ll walk you out,” Stryker said as Parker continued on.
The evening breeze helped her relax. Being outside lifted her spirits. She still couldn’t believe she had spent three hours in a basement with no windows. She couldn’t have done it without him.
She unlocked her car and opened the door. “It’s none of my business, but do you live in the basement of your club?”
“Itisnone of your business.”
“Are you always a jerk or just a jerk towards me?”
“Just you.” He winked, then headed for his car.
He’s got too much swagger for his own good. I could get into some serious trouble with that man.
7
Girls’ Night Out
Emerson walked into the upscale restaurant and glanced around. Raphael’s was the place to be and the eatery was crazy busy. Danielle Fox hurried over from her spot at the bar.
“I cannot believe we’ve never been here before,” Danielle said. “You have got to check out the bathroom. It’s uh-mazing.”
Emerson laughed. Being with her best friend was the perfect way to walk herself off the ledge, which was what an afternoon with Stryker called for. That, and a strong drink.
“Our table’s not ready yet,” Danielle said. “Come to the bathroom with me.” Looping her arm through Emerson’s, she led her through the spacious dining room.
Once there, Emerson’s mouth dropped open. “Wow, this is spectacular.”
“I know, right?”
Small, ornate chandeliers dangled from the ceiling, the pristine marble floors sparkled like diamonds. No stalls here. Each toilet was a private oasis. When Emerson entered one, Danielle was right there with her.
“I can’t have a moment alone?” Emerson asked.
Danielle just laughed. “We’ve been peeing together since we were six.”
Even the hand dryer was a thing of beauty that purred when Danielle tapped it.
As Emerson washed her hands, Danielle eyed her friend. “You aren’t okay. What’s wrong?”
