Chapter 16. Lieutenant Sabian was not happy. His own men scampered out of his way like bunnies

in the path of a bulldozer. Black Jack and I were once again on the same side of an interview

table at robbery homicide, though this time nobody had bothered to cuff us, either because

we were not actually suspects, which was possible, or

because Jack's handcuffed trick was starting to embarrass them, which seemed more likely.

Two corpses in two days is a bit much, even from you, Justice, the good lieutenant barked.

His lips curled around the remnants of his cigar, which appeared to have been extinguished

hours earlier.

Hey, I chimed in. It's a personal best for me.

You shut up now, Sabian growled while he paced the floor on the other side of the table.

When he got like this, I like to imagine him in a giant bear suit. It amused me and I could tell

that it confused and annoyed him. To be fair, Lieutenant Jack said, the first corpse doesn't really count.

I was just nearby when it dropped. I didn't actually discover it, for which I blame her.

And I blame you, I said. Right, Jack continued, it's still an open point. Best not to bring it up at all.

I'm going to bring the both of you up, Sabian glared, on any charge I can think of just

to get you off the street.

Such as what, I protested, gross competence, aiding and abetting the pursuit of law and order?

How about the break and enter at Lishish's studio, Sabian said, his palms flat on the table

glaring at me? There was no break, Jack said, leaning back in his chair. There was only enter. Is that even a

crime? Actually, I said quietly as if an aside. I think it is. Jack was silent for a moment.

Really? He asked. Pretty sure I nodded. Jack considered this. I should really stop using

that line, he said. Sabian's rage had settled into a nice, quiet seethe as he regarded us.

...