“All right, all right,” Davidson said. “I won’t dock you time. One week on our time, you pay for your own transportation—both in the air and on the ground. And you pay for your own accommodations—”

“To be reimbursed by the depart—”

“Yeah, yeah. I’ll agree to that. If your jaunt leads to solving this case, you’ll get your money back. Just keep receipts, including how much it cost you to set things up with the Jews. I know that didn’t come cheap.”

Though boiling inside, Decker put on a grin. “Don’t worry about that, Loo. I got a bargain. Remember, I’m Jewish, too.”

Davidson was about to agree, then looked at Decker and realized he shouldn’t say anything. Tug thought he detected a hint of sarcasm but not enough to call him on. He looked at his detectives without affect. Calmly, he said, “You got what you wanted. Now get out of here and go be useful.”

Just as the door opened, Rina had stuffed the last of her clothing into the suitcase. Quickly, she closed the valise and attempted to snap it shut, but it was too full. From the living room, she heard Peter cooing to the baby. Then he called her name out loud.

“In the bedroom,” she answered. “Wait, I’ll come out to you.”

She sat on the suitcase, trying to secure the latches without making noise. But it was too late. Peter was standing in the doorway, holding Hannah. The baby had her head against his chest. He stared at the suitcase, then his eyes went back to Rina.

“Well, you’re certainly fast when motivated,” he said.

Rina looked at him, but didn’t answer.

Decker kissed Hannah’s cheek. “Go to Mama, so Daddy can get going.” He handed the baby to Rina and swung down the matching suitcase. Canvas—nice and light. “You know where the passports are?”

Rina paused, then said, “Of course I know where the passports are.”

“Excuse me!” Decker went to his closet and pulled out a couple of suits. Slightly out of style, but the fabric packed well. “I didn’t for a moment doubt your competency. I was just asking a question for information.” He pulled out a couple of ties. “These go with the suits? I want to look professional but not like a stiff.”

Rina didn’t answer. Decker regarded his wife’s confused face.

“I’m not posing for Vogue, Rina. I just want an opinion.”

Rina remained silent.

Decker said, “Are we on the same planet here?”

“Peter, what’s going on?”

“What do you mean?”

“Why are you packing?”

“Because I can’t travel wearing just a suit on my back.” Decker stood, legs apart, hands on his hips. Cop’s stance, Rina thought. He said, “We’re missing some vital connecting sentence, aren’t we?”

“I believe so.”