Page 54 of Near Miss

“Is that really necessary?”

“Probably not, but best not to take chances, don’t you think?”

On the way back home, Dino called.

“I got the results from the rapid DNA tests. The bodies officially belonged to Trench and Bozo.”

“Did Lance call you?”

“No, why?”

“Trench was the Greek’s nephew.”

“The old Greek or the new Greek?”

“How do you know about the new one?”

“Word gets around fast in my circles.”

“Well, it’s the new.”

“Shit.”

“My thoughts exactly. Come over for dinner tonight?”

“Can I bring Viv?”

“I would be insulted if you didn’t.”

Dino and Viv arrived at six-thirty for drinks before dinner. Stone had just poured Dino his second Knob Creek when Carly called. “I’m sitting alone in my new apartment and thought you could use some company.”

“I have company,” Stone said, “but you are more than welcome to join us.”

“Oh, I didn’t realize. I don’t want to bother you.”

“It’s Dino and Viv.”

“I’ll be right over.”

When he hung up, Dino asked, “Who will be right over?”

“Carly.”

Viv smirked at Dino. “Your date from last night.”

Stone held up his hands. “I didn’t tell her.”

“No, you didn’t,” Viv confirmed. “Dino outed himself.”

“I don’t know what came over me,” Dino said.

“I can verify he kept a respectable distance from Carly at all times.”

“I have no doubt.” Viv patted her husband on the cheek. “Such a good husband.”

Stone let Helene know there would be one more for dinner.

Carly arrived moments later. She surveyed the room, then looked at Stone. “So, tonight I’myourdate.”

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