Page 38 of Executing Malice
I don’t get a chance to respond when I can feel the full weight of Weir’s attention now settled on my face.
Fucking Mable.
“You own the bike out there.” It is not a question.
I give a nod.
“She’s beautiful.”
I have to resist the urge to shift.
“Thanks.”
I’m saved from his scrutiny just long enough for him to tell Mablethe usual,before it returns.
“You’re not from around here.”
Mable is not moving. She is fully invested in this conversation.
“No.”
Short, clean answers. That’s how I was raised to deal with cops, or anyone in authority.
“Do you have business in the area?”
Trick question.
Both will lead to more questions. Not answering will only make it worse.
“House hunting.” Not a lie.
I fully intend to get a house and settle down with Leila if she wants to stay here.
Weir’s eyebrows lift. “So, you’re planning to stay.”
This guy really likes asking questions without actually asking a question.
“Thinking about it.”
He nods slowly. “What do you do?”
“IT.” Again, not a lie.
“Interesting.” He turns and smiles at Mable as she hands him his coffee. Still no sandwich for me. “Could probably use one of those at City Hall. You should talk to the Mayor.”
Not what I was expecting. I’m taken aback by his ... helpfulness.
“I will. Thanks.”
He gives me a brief bob of his head before lifting his black brew in Mable’s direction. “Thanks, Mable.”
Just like that, he leaves.
Either he’s blind and thinks I look trustworthy, or Jefferson really is stupidly trusting, but whatever. As long as he’s not getting in my way, we’ll be fine.
Leila is already at the bank when I pull up and cut the engine. I usually make it a point to arrive after her. Partially so she can’t see which direction I come from, but also because I enjoy the pleasure on her face when she sees me. Oh, she tries to hide it behind her scowl and suspicions, but I know she likes it. Likes having me close by.
I park in my usual spot and kill the engine. My body reflexively settles in its comfortable position, accustomed to the long wait.
