Page 41 of Fatal Strike
“Don’t hold your breath. I don’t think her parents knew they were dating.”
27
THE HOMES ON TIKI ISLANDwere built straight up on narrow lots, leaving the low area for floodwaters that accompanied tropical storms and hurricanes. The James home had the elegance Leah had come to expect from many who lived in the coastal community surrounding Galveston. Three stories with lots of outdoor living space including a pool and a boat slip. Easily a million-dollar price tag.
“The Jameses must be doing well for themselves.” Jon’s observation echoed her own thoughts. He rang the doorbell of a double door. A yappy dog responded in its best watchdog voice. “If a woman answers, you lead out,” he said.
“Got it.”
He rang the bell a second time.
A light in the foyer flipped on, and a middle-aged woman with bare feet and dressed in white shorts opened the door.
Leah held up her credentials and introduced herself and Jon as members of Houston’s FBI. “We’d like to talk to Elena James.”
The woman’s face blanched. “I’m Olivia James, her mother. Please wait while I get my husband.” She closed the door and latched it.
“How long before you ring the doorbell again?”
“Twenty more seconds.”
With four seconds remaining on Leah’s countdown, the door opened. Olivia and a tall, tanned man appeared. Both were undeniably islanders with tanned skin, highlighted hair, and Botoxed faces.
“I’m Richard James. Explain to me why you’re here at this hour. What’s happened to our daughter?”
“Agent Colbert and I have questions regarding her friendship with Dylan Ortega,” Jon said.
“Who?” He glared. “Are you referring to the man the police and FBI are looking for? The man wanted for questioning regarding the murder of Judge Mendez?”
“Yes, sir.” Jon continued. “May we come in?”
He stiffened and for a moment Leah thought he’d slam the door in their faces. “I’m wondering if I should have my attorney present.”
Lawyering up always delayed interviews, but it was the right of every citizen. Leah respected him for wanting to protect his daughter—she would do the same in his shoes. She picked up the conversation. “Legal counsel is your choice, Mr. James. But none of you are in any trouble. We just have a few questions for Elena that are important to our case.”
“Then come in. We need to clear this up. Our daughter’s reputation is at stake.”
Leah and Jon were led to an open foyer with light oak floors. Mr. James pointed to a spacious living room facing the water. High ceilings gave the room an outdoor feel. Furnishings were black and white with accents in shades of turquoise, red, and yellow. Leah and Jon were seated on a white sofa, and Olivia James sat in a nearby chair.
Richard James paced the floor, hands in his cargo short pockets.
Jon started things off. “Dylan Ortega’s mother, Silvia Ortega, gave us Elena’s name, address, and cell phone number yesterday,” he said. “Agent Riesel talked to your daughter then. Elena claimed she had no idea where Dylan could be found. Today when Agent Riesel phoned her with more questions, she didn’t pick up. Is she here?”
“Not right now. She’s out with friends,” Mr. James said. “Where did this Ortega woman get Elena’s information? Because she’s harassing us.”
Jon ignored the last half of the man’s comment. “According to her, Dylan and Elena are dating.”
Mr. James’s face reddened. “Your source is a liar. He’s never been here, and neither would our daughter associate with the likes of him.”
“We can clear this up if we speak to Elena directly.”
Mr. James addressed his wife. “When is Elena expected home?”
The woman touched her mouth before speaking. “Tomorrow.”
Leah considered taking over the interview to calm Olivia. As if reading her thoughts, Jon glanced her way.
“Can you give us a number where we can reach her?” Leah lowered her voice. “All we need to do is ask a few questions.”
