“As far as Little’s death, I can’t say for sure who actually killed him, but I think we can safely narrow it down to three people. Two are dead, the other’s in custody.”

“Then I suppose I got what I came for.” Genoa stood. “Although not entirely solved, I’m satisfied. And I intend to make good on my promise, much to the delight of your captain.”

“Much to the delight of the entire police force.”

“I understand that your captain is taking me to a dinner in my honor tonight. I’m meeting the commissioner and the police chief. I assume you’ll be there as well?”

Decker’s smile was tight. “No, ma’am, I have prior arrangements.”

“And you can’t cancel them?”

“Not unless I want a divorce.”

DECKER WAS IN a suit and tie. Rina was in a black dress and black pumps and wearing pearls. Just as they pulled up to the valet, Rina said, “I’m not in the mood for this.”

Decker was silent.

“Not that I don’t want to be with you, I’m just not in the mood for a dog and pony show…nor the giant bill that will surely follow. I packed a picnic dinner. Let’s find a nice spot at the beach and eat in the car.”

If Decker never saw the ocean again, it would be too soon. “Sure. Where?”

“How about Sunset Beach?”

As long as it wasn’t Santa Monica, it was tolerable. It took about a half hour to drive and find a good spot on a paved parking lot right off Pacific Coast Highway. Decker pulled the Porsche over and killed the headlights and the motor. Looking out the window…the two of them staring out at vast nothingness. No moonlight, lots of overcast fog, and tides rolling back and forth.

“The picnic basket is in the front compartment.”

“I’ll get it.” Decker returned a moment later with the food. Rina might have still been pissed at him, but it didn’t translate in her cooking. There were smoked chicken breasts on baguettes, brisket on rye, butter lettuce salad with macadamia nuts, potato chips, strawberries dipped in chocolate and champagne.

“I’m unworthy,” Decker said.

“You’re not kidding.” Silence. “That was mean. I apologize.”

“Why don’t you just get it all out, and maybe then we can move on.”

“There’s nothing to get out.” A pause. “I can’t believe how little disregard you have for your loved ones and yourself.”

Decker didn’t answer.

“Well?” she asked.

“I have no response that isn’t going to get me into more hot water, so I plead the Fifth.”

“This is getting it all out?” When Decker remained silent, Rina said, “You want a brisket or chicken?”

“I want to get along.”

“Am I fighting?”

“You know what I mean.”