“And,” Decker went on, “I suppose, as a cop, I can communicate to the local police better than a PI could.” He glanced up at Rina. She was grinning. “Rina, I’m not being noble, just practical.”

“Of course,” she said. “And also being practical, I think I should help you canvass Crown Heights.”

Decker gave her a dubious look.

Rina said, “Peter, I can talk to the women better than you can.”

“Forget it.”

“What are you going to tell me, Peter? It’s too dangerous? Some irate Lubavicher Chasid might curse me to death?”

“I don’t work with my wife.”

Rina stared at him. “That is so ridiculous. I’m not going to respond to it.”

Decker smiled. “Your prerogative, darlin’.”

“We both want to find Noam,” Rina said. “It’s also my honeymoon that’s being affected. I don’t see you a lot. You work long hours. At least let me ride with you so I can remember what you look like.”

Decker said, “Now she’s trying guilt.”

“I’m in the room, Peter. You don’t have to talk about me in the third person.”

“Okay, okay.” Decker paused a long time. “All right, you can ride with me. Truth be told, I’d love to have your company. But if things start getting hairy, promise me you’ll back off.”

“I’ve been through horrible situations before,” Rina said. “I think I’ve survived quite well.”

“This has nothing to do with your ability to survive, hon,” Decker said. “Let’s just say I’m being selfish. My home—our home—is my refuge, a place where I can leave my work behind. If you’re in the field with me, Rina, I can’t do that. You understand what I’m saying?”

“Yes, I do,” Rina said. “And I know how you feel about discussing your cases with me. If you don’t want to talk to me about work—if you’re afraid of burdening me or defiling the sanctity of our household, I understand. And that’s fine. Thank God you have Marge for catharsis.

“But this is a special situation. I know the family. I’m personally involved. But more important, there’s something else going on. This whole Frieda Levine situation: It has to be affecting you. And except for me there’s no one else for you to confide in. I just want to be near you in case you need someone to lean on.”