“His murder was remarkably similar to another individual who died fifteen years ago. A teacher named Bennett Alston Little. I understand you went to North Valley High where Dr. Little taught history, civics, social studies…”

The slight pause was very telling.

“I went to North Valley. So did thousands of other teens. I dropped out in eleventh grade way before he died. What’s that gotta do with me?”

“Mr. Banks, it’s really in both of our interests if we get together and talk. When can I meet you?”

“Do you know how far behind I am on my work?”

“Sir, this really is in your interest. And the sooner we talk, the sooner you’ll be rid of me.”

Another slight pause. Decker heard the man take a breath. “I’ll call you in a week.”

“No, that’s too long, Mr. Banks. I guarantee you, it won’t take more than an hour of your time. I can even meet you, tonight if you want—”

“No, I don’t want, goddamnit. I know what you’re going to ask. You’re going to ask about Primo. Yes, I knew Primo. Yes, we were suing the shit out of each other. Yes, we’ve been going at it for a while. No, I did not murder him.

“As far as your victim, I don’t remember him, but I vaguely remember the murder. I was living in L.A. when it happened. That’s all I can tell you. At the time, I was not only fucking every girl I could get my hands on, I was perpetually stoned. Jesus, I could use a good doobie now.”

“How about if we meet some time tomorrow?”

“Why are you putting the screws on my balls?”

“Just a few simple questions, Mr. Banks. I can come to your place in Hollywood. I’ve already been there. I left you my card—”

“All right already. Fine. Come tomorrow at three. If I’m in, I’ll talk to you. Don’t bother ringing the bell, it’s broken. And if you knock, no guarantees that I’ll answer. Three in the afternoon is my low period. Sometimes I doze off, and when I do, I’m a sound sleeper. You come at your own risk.”

“I’ll expect you to be in, sir.”