“Well …” Decker considered her question. “It’s long hours, honey. And it’s grueling work. Because our victim is deceased and can’t speak, we feel compelled to do it for them. It’s an obsessive business.” He paused for several seconds. “The one thing I will say is remember that you have a life away from work. You’ve got a husband and children and friends. Getting your mind off the case is as crucial as thinking about it.”

“I wouldn’t have done it, but Koby said I’d be sorry if I didn’t grab the opportunity.”

“I agree. The department is lucky to have someone as gifted as you are.” He smiled at her. “Do you know any of your colleagues beside your friend?”

“I know a few. Naomi Ristra is the one that recommended me. She’s a detective sergeant. I’ll be working under her.”

“It’s imperative to have a good mentor.”

“I’ve already had the best mentor ever.” She hugged her father. “Wish me luck?”

“No need, Cyn. You are a natural.” He held her as if she were a teen going to college for the first time. “I love you, pumpkin. Whatever you need, I’m always just a phone call away.”

Cindy hugged back, then broke away. “Thank you, Daddy. I’m sure you’ll be sorry for that offer.” A smile. “I should say hello to Rina.”

“Go on. I’m going to watch the boys play basketball.”

“You should play with them. With Koby, it’ll be two-on-two.”

“I have many virtues, Cindy, but speed isn’t one of them. Although I am still taller than the boys. I suppose I could just stand under the basket and shoot.”

“That’s called a lane violation, Daddy.” She laughed. “I’ll be helping Rina. Let me know if you need anything.”

“Other than CPR?”

“No worries,” Cindy said. “My doctor husband has got you covered.”

CHAPTER 23

WE WERE BOTH neat people and we were both sticklers for being on time. It was unusual for me to dawdle, but I did.

Chris opened the bathroom door. “Teresa, I need to get down there. How long?”

I turned off the water and took a towel from the rim of the shower door. I wrapped it around my body and stepped out. “So go.” I turbaned my wet hair with another towel. “I’ll have Jorge take me down.”

“It’s Ben.”

“Jorge, Ben, Evan … whoever.”

“Why did you wash your hair?”

“Because I’m a clean woman?”

He pulled out a blow dryer. “C’mon. I’ll do it. I’ll do your makeup too.”

“Chris, just go down and I’ll be there in about a half hour.”

“I want to see how you look in the dress.”

I gave out an exasperated sigh and took the dress from the bed. I said, “Can you wait in the other room?”

“Why?”

“Because I want privacy … Go.”