Cuts straight to the chase. Hannah’s list of clichés grew longer. She attempted to think of an answer that wasn’t an outright lie, and came up with, “You don’t have to worry, Detective Parks. I’d never interfere in an official investigation.”

“Call me Stella.” Her deep blue eyes bored into Hannah’s, and Hannah had the fleeting thought that being interrogated by Detective Parks would not be a pleasant experience. “You didn’t answer my question. Are you working on Miss Ward’s murder?”

“Well…yes. Yes, I am. Unofficially, of course.”

“Of course. I’m the detective. You’re not. I think we’re going to get along just fine, Hannah, as long as you keep that distinction clear. Do you think you can do that?”

“I know I can do that,” Hannah assured her.

“Good. Now let’s get down to business.” Stella took another sip of her coffee, but her eyes never left Hannah’s. “I’m at a disadvantage here. I don’t know the people or the area, and I’m shorthanded. My staff consists of two boys who couldn’t find their…” Stella stopped and cleared her throat. “Who couldn’t find their feet in a dark room with both hands. I’d like to know that I can count on you, Hannah. How about it?”

“You’ve got it,” Hannah said quickly. “Is there anything in particular you want me to do?”

“Do what you usually do. Talk to people. Listen to people. Bill’s told me that information just seems to land in your lap. I want you to share that information with me, even if you don’t think it’s important. Let me be the judge of that.”

“I can do that.”

“Good. Just call me every day and tell me what you’ve learned. I’ll be out in the field most of the time, so I’ll give you my personal cell phone number. You can always leave voice mail if you can’t speak to me personally. Are we clear on that?”

“We’re clear.”

“Good. Thank you, Hannah. You’re a valuable resource and I’m going to enjoy working with you.”

Hannah’s mind was still spinning when they got back to her condo. She felt as if she’d been co-opted by a master, but she didn’t really mind. The important fact was that Detective Parks actually wanted her help.

“The Kitty Valet is empty again,” Michelle reported after a quick trip to the kitchen. “How can one cat eat that much?”

“I don’t know. And I’m beginning to think it’s impossible.”

“You think Moishe’s carrying off his food and stashing it somewhere?”

“I don’t know what else to think. He still jumps up in my arms when I come home, and it doesn’t feel as if he’s gained any weight. He doesn’t look any heavier, either.”