I turn to Gabriel. “Donald Chesterman is the devil incarnate. Raped his kids and his wife. His was the first major case I handled in Special Vics, back when I was a real newbie. I was technically second-seating Lauren, but she let me handle the key witnesses. A real baptism by fire. Three or four days into the trial, Chesterman took a plea.” Turning back to Lauren, I say, “I thought he got fifteen years.”

“Me too, actually. So when I got the notice of his release, I checked the file. The deal was from a B to a C felony, so the prison term was three and a half to fifteen. He apparently was a model prisoner, so he got out in eight.”

The thought of Donald Chesterman on the loose is enough to weaken my appetite.

“On a hopefully happier note,” Lauren says, “I’ve wanted to share something, but it cannot leave this table. Okay?”

“Okay,” I say, obviously intrigued.

“I’m thinking about challenging McKenney for DA.”

“Really?” I say. I realize the moment the words escape me that Lauren was undoubtedly hoping for something more supportive.

She chuckles. “Yes, really. It’s something Richard has been suggesting for some time. I’ve always rejected it, but now might be the time for me to take the plunge.”

Lauren always seemed disdainful of office politics, so the idea that she’d consider undertaking the soul-sucking commitment of a citywide race seems out of character. On the other hand, she’d make a spectacular DA. I know that she doesn’t think much of the way McKenney is handling his duties. On top of which, she’s a candidate made in heaven with her quick wit, good looks, and proven track record as a crime fighter. Not to mention that Richard’s money would buy a hell of a lot of attack ads.

“I think that’s amazing,” I say. “Is there anything I can do to help?”

“You can keep it quiet for a little, until I make the announcement,” she says. “And then, after I’m elected, you can take over the Special Victims Bureau.”

I turn to catch Gabriel’s eye, where I’m met by a dead-on I-told-you-so expression. He’s confirming that he knew tonight’s dinner was a job interview in disguise, even though he, like I, thought it was for the number-two spot.

6. DANA GOODWIN

6.

DANA GOODWIN

“Do you have any idea where my phone is?” I call out to Stuart.

Stuart pokes his head back in the bedroom. With a quizzical expression he says, “Is this a trick question?”

“What?”

“Isn’t it in your hand?” he says hesitantly.

“No,” I say, now annoyed. “That’s my BlackBerry. I’m looking for my iPhone.”