“Cin, I don’t think it’ll do much for your reputation if we walk in together like some kind of wayward crime-fighting team showing up the primary investigators.”

“You’re absolutely right. I will talk to Rip and pass along your request.”

“Be sure to say that I found the CDs based on your download of Martel’s lyrics.”

“Dad, I know how to sell myself.”

“I’m just trying to help.”

“I know, Dad. I appreciate it. Thank you. Anything else?”

“No.” Decker stood up and so did Cindy. “I should be back in my office at around four. If they have a moment, give me a call.”

“I’ll pass it along. That’s the best I can do. By the way, I hear that Alaska is a go.”

“Not up to me. Rina’s in charge.”

“I know she’s in charge. That’s why it’s going to happen.”

Decker acted offended. “I make things happen.”

“When you want to.”

“What does that mean?”

“It means that…how should I say this? You get distracted.” She kissed his cheek. “But never with work. That’s why you’re the man.”

O’Dell called as Decker was pulling into the station house parking lot. His voice was agitated. “He’s not back. I don’t like this at all. I called up his brother.”

“The lung doctor,” Decker said.

“Yeah, Barry. He’s coming down to drive around and look for Ryan. I’m gonna wait at the apartment and hope that Mudd just got adventurous.”

“Does Barry the lung doctor know anything about Ryan’s habits?”

“I asked him about Mudd taking off like he did. Barry said that if Ryan goes out at all, it’s in the morning for a few groceries. It’s almost four, mate.”

“Maybe he took a small vacation.”

“He wouldn’t just pack out and go. And he wouldn’t leave behind his guitar.”

“He might if he figured he’d just be gone for a few days.”

“Where would he go, mate? I’m telling you, this ain’t right or good.”

“I just pulled into the station house’s parking lot. I have to check my messages and make a couple of calls. Then I’ll come back and help Barry look for Ryan. It’ll take me about an hour and a half. If Ryan does return, call me right away.”

“I’m a little queasy about this. Rudy’s missing…Ryan’s missing.” Anger in Liam’s voice. “Why’d you mess things up, mate? Why didn’t you just let well enough alone?”

“Wasn’t my doing, O’Dell. It’s the ghosts of murder past who stirred things up. I’m just the translator for the dead.”