I cant say that, he conceded. Shed come to work in more provocative dresses and wear a little more makeup than she used to. I didnt ask about it but I knew she was going to parties and having dates. That stung a little because she seemed to be having such a good time without me. But I also worried about her.

Why?

She just really threw herself into the new lifestyle. I used to tease her about it, say that she was having the mid-life crisis instead of me. I know she did a lot more drinking and other chemicals, things she generally avoided prior to that. Thats also when she started going to Jasper Otiss place a lot.

Jessie was hesitant to press the matter for fear that hed shut down but knew she had no choice.

Do you think they were involved? Jessie asked, shifting uncomfortably.

He sighed as he weighed how to answer.

I think she just enjoyed the perks of being in his orbit, though she did tell me he hit on her a few times. She said she wasnt interested, that she always found him to be a little creepy. I dont think he liked that. Hes not used to being rejected.

Is it possible that she was just denying it to avoid hurting you?

He shrugged.

I suppose. But she was pretty forthright with me about her other dalliances. I dont see why shed hide that one.

Jessie decided shes warmed him up enough to go for it.

Do you think Jasper Otis could have killed her?

He didnt take long to respond.

Yes.

Why do you say that? she asked.

Like I said, he isnt used to being told no, Estrada said, sounding truly worked up for the first time. That might have set him off. Otis presents a very cool, unruffled vibe, but Ive seen him pissed off. Its not pretty. He has this coldness to him. Even if he wasnt upset, I could see him killing her just for the hell of it, to know what it feels like to snuff out the life of another human being. Hes not wired like the rest of us, Ms. Hunt.

Jessie sat with that for a moment. Beto Estrada wasnt exactly an objective analyst, but he knew Otis better than her and his views couldnt be dismissed, even if they sounded outlandish.

And where were you last night? she asked, turning on a dime.

Is this the part where I need to ask for my lawyer? he wondered, now calm again.

You certainly can, she said.

Thats okay, he replied, waving off the idea. I was here. I did a little prep for a case I have this week, then watched a movie.

On a streaming service? she asked.

That would have been helpful for an alibi, I suppose, he answered. Easier to confirm, right? But no, I threw in an old DVDSneakers starring Robert Redford. You ever see it?