Chapter 42
Chapter
When my phone rang at eleven forty a.m., I was downtown, walking to a municipal parking lot across from the court building, after an in-chambers meeting with a family law judge and two lawyers.
I said, “Found yourself a judge.”
I said, “Downtown. Returning to the scene?”
“Why else drive there—hold on.”
He was back a few moments later.
“That was Alicia. The jam eased and Tiana’s driving around kind of aimlessly.
Alicia managed to stay with her but a bunch of cars got between them.
Hector was nearby so she called him in. Overall, Tiana’s headed in the right direction if the dumpster is her destination but who knows?
I’m almost there, let you know if anything happens. ”
“I’m ten minutes away from the dumpster.”
“Why?”
“Court stuff.”
“Oh. Well, keep your distance. Not that I should have to tell you.”
A couple of years ago I was with him at a stakeout and got battered by a psychotic. No slipups by anyone; stuff happens. It took a few tense discussions for him to ease off sheltering me. But sometimes he still tries to protect and serve.
I said, “Good luck,” hung up, and continued walking.
The Seville had merited free parking because my I.D. tag said I was a designated expert witness. That confused the attendant who felt he needed to consult with another attendant. Eventually the yardarm lifted.
Once out of the lot, I headed for the alley where Lynne Gutierrez had been treated like garbage.