It’s young, but not that young. And it’s odd for both victims to have youngish dead husbands but cause of death for both at this point, at least, appears to be natural.

“Were they already divorced?”

“They were going through a nasty divorce at the time.”

“I need phone numbers for anyone and everyone that is connected to Wells, or the chef, and I’ll explain why later. Shoot me an email. I’m thinking I better run by Naomi’s house on my way there.”

“You want to leave the chef waiting for you or have me assign a detective to question him?”

“I want you to question him and then make him wait for me. Let him get exhausted enough to talk to me if he doesn’t to you.”

“You do know I have the title Chief for a reason, right?”

“So you can tell people you have the title for a reason?” I don’t give him time to reply. “Consider it a compliment. I don’t trust anyone more than you.”

“You trust me?” he asks.

“I know you,” I counter.

“That’s a no.”

“That’s not a no, which is all you ever get from me.”

Apparently, that’s enough for him because he says, “I’ll talk to him but only because the last thing I need is another serial killer in my city. And I can send a patrol car to check on Naomi Wells.”

“I’ll go. I’ll call you when I get there.” I hang up and dial Kane. He doesn’t answer. This time, I call his office. The receptionist, Cindy, who is one of the few people on this planet I find just the right kind of sweet, answers. “Mendez Enterprises. Can I help you?”

“Cindy, it’s Lilah. I need Kane.”

“He’s not in yet.”

My heart thunders in my chest. What the hell is going on?

“He’s not in yet?” I repeat, when I hate it when people repeat what I just said like I didn’t just clearly say it.

“No,” she confirms. “I was expecting him, but he must be running late.”

“Has he called?” I ask.

“No. Is there something wrong?”

“I just need to get him some important information ASAP.”

“I can have him call you,” she offers. “Or I can try to reach him.”

“No. I’ll call him on his cell. Thanks.” I disconnect and there is a stabbing sensation in my chest. He’s okay, I tell myself. Of course, he’s okay. He’s Kane. Who is human. I just reminded us both that he’s human. I text him: I must really love you because I’m worried. I don’t worry. You know I don’t worry. And please, yes please, call me. Or text me. Or have someone let me know that you’re okay.