Cant say that I have, she said.

Oh, you should check it out. Its a fun thriller.

But unable to be verified, she noted.

I suppose not. Its still in the machine, if you want to check. But I guess that doesnt help. I could have watched it a month ago and just left the DVD in there and youd never know.

You understand the problem, she said.

Well, Ms. Hunt, I wish I could provide you with a more rock solid alibi to prove I didnt murder my ex-wife, but I didnt know Id need one. Cant you just ask people who were there, show my picture around? There must be security footage. Surely my presence would be noted. As you know, we were a pretty high profile couple.

Rest assured, well be doing all of that, Mr. Estrada, she said, standing up. Something else Id like to do is look through Millicents work files. Are you able to help with that?

He thought about it.

I cant permit you to actually look in the files. That would be a breach of client confidentiality. But I dont see why you cant review her client list and what their cases were. Of course all of that is public record, but it would save you time to go straight to the source. If you think that would help with the investigation, I can expedite it.

Id appreciate it, she said.

You should go today then, he told her as he walked her to the door. It will be quieter on a Sunday, with fewer bureaucratic hoops to jump through. We have a weekend receptionist. Ill tell him to expect you. Security will have to remain with you at all times to ensure client privacy. But with those limitations, youll have free access to whatever you think will help.

Thank you, she said, hiding her surprise. Either Beto Estrada was sincere about wanting to find his ex-wifes killer or he really wanted to project that image.

She got in the car and was about to back out of the driveway. As she tried to think of the best route to the offices of Halsey, Burt, Tyler & Estrada, a sudden, terrifying thump on her window made her jump in her seat.

Beto Estrada was standing by the car. He looked winded and his eyes were wild. He had something in his hand, which he raised in her direction. She thought about going for her gun but knew she didnt have time. If he wanted to shoot her, he wasnt likely to miss.

CHAPTER NINE

Though she knew it was pointless, she dived forward, hoping the steering wheel might offer some protection from a potential bullet. She was preparing to put the car in reverse and punch the accelerator when a voice called out.

Its not a gun.

She looked over. The object in Estradas right hand, which he held out to her with a wildly flailing arm, was a thumb drive.