For half a second, she imagined herself pulling the pillow out from underneath his head and pressing it against his face, smothering him, and releasing him from the pain of his current existence.

The moment passed and she went outside. As she settled into the hammock, she allowed herself to buy into the image of herself that Kat had described. A picture of her sashaying down a fashion runway, wearing a cap and gown, filled her drowsy thoughts.

For now at least, as she drifted off, the idea of mercy killing her sisters boyfriend faded away. When she eventually woke up, it was to the sound of Ryan moaning in pain.

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

Jessie thought hed have a nicer house.

As she and Karen arrived at the home of Rance Jensen in their separate cars, she noted that the place was officially impressive. It was a two-story, Spanish missionstyle home with elaborate designs on the exterior wall tile. But on closer inspection, the shingles were in disrepair. The grass in the yard was getting shaggy, and the paint job looked worn. For a big TV star, the guy didnt seem to be keeping up appearances.

Before they went to the door, they went over their plan. This was the only guy on the list of suspects theyd developed at the law firm who they knew for certain had been at the party last night. At least two revelers theyd interviewed by the pool mentioned his name, specifically referring to his body autographing skills, so he seemed like a good choice to start with until Jamil got to look at the security footage.

Be ready, Jessie advised. We already know the guys volatile. Whether he did this or not, weve seen that hes capable of violence. That reporter he beat up still cant see out of one eye and its been three years.

Got it, Karen said in a tone that suggested she didnt need any extra warnings. Bad man likes to hit. Prepare to hurt.

Jessie reminded herself that she was dealing with a pro and that her words of caution were not only unnecessary but a little insulting.

Sorry, she said.

Karen winked and with the mini-dispute resolved, they walked up to the front door, where the detective rang the bell. She had to press it twice more before the door was opened by a skinny, thirty-something guy in a bathrobe. His blond hair was in full bed head mode and he yawned for a good five seconds before speaking.

I dont do autographs at my home, he said irritably, squinting at them through puffy hazel eyes.

Were not here for autographs, Mr. Jensen, Karen said. Were

I dont give freebies either, he said. If I had a dime for every professional mom who wanted to have a poke with Sheriff Batts, Id probably have herpes.

The two women looked at each other, sharing a moment of annoyance.