Page 84 of Wild Idol
“Oh, all new security staff. I made a lot of changes around here.”
“I see. Still the same manager, right?”
“Yes. He’s been with me since the beginning. Everett’s not going anywhere. Everyone else—gone.”
“Everyone?”
“I wanted a fresh start. People I trust. 100% loyal.”
“Understandable.”
“You’ve got me paranoid that someone is trying to kill me.”
“Can’t be too cautious these days.”
“I’m leaving for a European tour tomorrow. I wanted to make personnel changes before we left. So much easier than doing it once we’re underway.”
We stood there for a moment, drawing out the tension. The silence grew uncomfortable.
“Is everything okay? Did you confirm who stole my car?”
“Not exactly,” I said. “But we know who it’s not.”
Sable’s brow wrinkled with confusion.
“The medical examiner was able to pull DNA from tooth pulp,” I said.
Sable made a disgusted face.
“Sorry. There wasn’t much left of the remains. I was surprised they found any usable DNA at all.”
“So, what are the results?” Sable asked on the edge of her seat.
“It’s not Emily Fowler.”
Sable’s eyes rounded. “It’s not?”
I shook my head.
She stammered, “How do you know?”
“Apparently, Emily had submitted DNA to one of those family history websites. Her DNA profile ended up in a database that was sold to an information broker that shares data with law enforcement. We were able to rule her out.”
Sable’s face went pale, and she swallowed hard. “They can do that? That’s legal?”
I shrugged. “It’s in the fine print in the terms of service of the genealogy website. I guess you have to opt out if you don’t want your information sold.” I shook my head, feigning disgust. “I guess you can’t trust anybody these days.”
“I guess not,” she stammered. “So, who do you think it could be?”
“I don’t know,” I said, playing dumb. “Is there anyone else who resembles you?”
“I don’t know. I’m sure there are other celebrity impersonators out there.”
“I’m sure.” In the most non-threatening tone I could muster, I said, “It would be helpful if you could provide a DNA sample, so we don’t get confused if we find any other trace evidence in the car.”
Sable stiffened. “Well, I would, uh… I would love to, but I need to consult with my attorney first.”
“A simple cheek swab will do. Nothing invasive.”
