Did they put the ankle monitor on him yet? she asked.

Yep, Karen said, about an hour ago. Even so, you know this means theres probably no way we can avoid picking him up.

I know it doesnt look good, Jessie conceded. But this could either sink him or reinforce his claim that he passed out. Either way, you promised wed wait until tomorrow. Youre not breaking your word, are you, Detective Bray?

She said it with a playful lilt in her voice, but both of them knew this was a crucial moment for their current partnership and any future one. Jessie had to know where the womans loyalties lay.

I made a promise, Karen said. I keep my promises. But remember you made one too. If we dont have somebody else in our sights by lunchtime tomorrow, were taking him in, right?

Right, Jessie said reluctantly. Then I guess we better find our guy, or girl for that matter. Jamilany luck locking down Nancy Salters whereabouts?

He shook his head.

Ive been focused on this. That was next, along with trying to nail down how many senators, Oscar winners, and sultans were there. Any priority preference?

Jessie thought about it.

Lets start with Salter, she said. That shouldnt take as long. Either we can lock in her movements or we cant. I have a feeling the others are going to require more bureaucratic hoop-jumping so lets hold off on those. Also, when you get a minute, I need you to check security footage from Beto Estradas cottage this morning. Let me know if you see anything unusual after he left for work.

Is that all? Jamil asked, looking slightly exasperated.

For now, she replied without pity. They all had major workloads. Hed get by. Now if you both will excuse me for a few, I have to check in on another matter. Text if you need me.

Is this check-in part of the whole cant tell me for my own safety thing? Karen asked.

I cant answer that, Jessie said, smiling. For your own safety.

CHAPTER TWENTY FIVE

Jessie didnt knock.

When she opened the door to the Vice Units back office, Detective Gaylene Parker, who was alone in the room, looked up, startled. But Jessie didnt apologize as she closed and locked the door and sat down opposite the head of the unit.

Talking to Karen and Jamil had calmed her down a little. She no longer felt the need to scream at Parker, which wouldnt have been very constructive anyway. But she wasnt in the mood to give her a pass either.

Parkers expression quickly changed from surprise to defensiveness. She clearly knew why Jessie was here and was girding herself for whatever onslaught was forthcoming. The woman crossed her arms and raised her eyebrows skeptically.