Page 44 of Wild Sentinel

Jack said, "This case stinks. Lucas didn’t have much of a motive.”

I shrugged and played devil’s advocate. “People shoot people for the most ridiculous reasons sometimes.”

Jack shook his head. “Something’s off.”

We hurried out of the complex and took the steps down to the sidewalk. We were greeted by a woman in a pantsuit with aviator sunglasses. She flashed a shiny badge. "Afternoon, gentlemen."

She wasn't a bad-looking woman—5’4”, athletic physique, chocolate hair that kissed her shoulders. She had a California tan and strong features.

I smiled. "What can we do for you, officer?”

26

"You want to tell me exactly what you boys are doing?” the officer asked.

"Just visiting," I replied.

“I got a call that two deputies from Florida have been asking questions about Vivian Steele.”

"Is that illegal?"

"Nope, as long as you stay in your lane. To be honest, I would have appreciated a phone call. It's only common courtesy.”

"This isn't West Beverly,” I said.

She gave me a flat look. "Vivian is our case, and it's closed.”

"Who called you?” I asked.

"It doesn't matter who called me.”

I had a few ideas.

"We’re more than happy to share any information we dig up."

"I would expect nothing less. But you're digging in the wrong place.”

"Where should we dig?”

"Back in Florida. You’re wasting your time here.”

"Is that a threat?"

The officer smiled. "Why would you take that as a threat? Merely a suggestion. What do you think you can accomplish here anyway?”

I shrugged. "I'm sorry, I didn't get your name?”

"Mitchell. Detective Sharon Mitchell.”

"It's a pleasure to meet you. I'm Tyson Wild. This is my partner, Jack Donovan.”

We shook hands and exchanged pleasantries, although she wasn't too pleasant.

"How long will you be staying in town?”

"I'm not sure. Jack's here to visit his daughter. We thought we'd come out and enjoy some of the nice weather and California sunshine.”

"It's been a little gloomy lately. You got lucky, though. Seems to have burned off. At least for today.”