“Yeah, I’m fine…” He raked his hand through his hair. “Maybe it’s just turning sixty. Anyway, I sent Wanda Bontemps down to Ranger’s Deli to see if I can find anyone who could corroborate Chuck Tinsley’s story. She found a waitress who knows him. She says he eats there all the time. She thinks he was there on Monday around twelve-thirty, but she can’t be sure.”

Marge said, “Maybe Tinsley’s telling the truth. That someone found his business card in Adrianna’s pocket and set him up.”

“Could be.”

Oliver said, “You don’t like Tinsley, do you?”

“He calls in the body, and he met her for the first time the night before. He doesn’t tell us about it. No, I don’t like him.” Decker smoothed his mustache. “Something’s off with that guy. If he were locked up, I’d feel better. But he’s not in custody and I’m missing something.”

“It’ll come to you.”

“Yeah, it will. Let’s just hope it doesn’t come too late.”

CHAPTER THIRTY-NINE

THE DECKER HOUSE was much smaller than Gabe’s home in New York, and with everyone coming in and out, the space had become crowded. The brothers had called up a bunch of their old friends, and within hours, dudes were occupying every inch of usable space. The cramped conditions and the noise were making him nervous. When he tried to take refuge in the kitchen, he found it a mess of pots and pans, although the cooking smells were wonderful. Rina was wearing an apron, her forehead moist with sweat. Out of politeness, Gabe asked if he could help. He was relieved when she declined the offer.

“In that case, maybe I’ll go out for a walk.”

“It’s pretty insane around here. Even I’m not used to it anymore.” Rina handed him notepaper and a pencil. “Write down your cell number just in case. And put my cell number into your phone. You should have it in case of an emergency.”

“I’ll do it, although I think I’ll be okay.”

“What if your mugger comes back for revenge?”

Gabe took out his iPod and smiled. “I still have my right hand. Can I pick up something for you while I’m out?”

“No, I’m covered.” Rina tousled his hair. “Don’t get lost in your music.”

“Actually, it seems like a perfect thing to get lost in.”