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He jammed his hands into his pockets and sulked. "Boy, try to be considerate because somebody got her head cracked and her face pounded and see where it gets you."

She'd all but forgotten about the state of her face, and found herself annoyed at being reminded. "If I need a chair, I can get one myself. But thanks."

When the door opened on the other side of the glass, he brightened. "Here she comes. Go get 'em, baby."

"Officer Baby," Eve corrected and settled in to watch the show.

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

She watched while Peabody settled Maureen Stibbs in a chair at the wobbly table, set the record, offered the interview subject a drink of water.

Brisk, professional, Eve thought with approval. Not too threatening. Not yet.

And there was Officer Troy Trueheart posted at the door looking young and All-American ... and about as grim as a cocker spaniel puppy.

She could sense Peabody's nerves, see them in the quick glance she flicked toward the glass as she poured the water.

But the uniform was enough, Eve decided as Maureen's eyes darted between Peabody and Trueheart.

People usually saw what they expected to see.

"I still don't understand why I had to come all the way down here." Maureen took a tiny sip of water, like a butterfly at a blossom. "My husband and daughter will be expecting me home soon."

"This shouldn't take long. We appreciate your cooperation, Mrs. Stibbs. I'm sure your husband will appreciate your help in this matter. It must be difficult for both of you to have this case remain open."

Good, good, put it in her lap, Eve urged. Make her a part of it, bring up the husband every chance you get.

Eve shifted her weight, tucked her thumbs in her front pockets as Peabody took Maureen through the story and statement she'd given before, asked her to repeat or expand on certain details.

"In EDD we don't do a lot of interviews." McNab toyed restlessly with the nest of earrings on his left ear. "How's she doing?"

"Good, she's doing good. Getting her rhythm."

Inside, Peabody wasn't quite as confident, but she kept plugging.

"I've said all this before. Over and over." Maureen pushed the cup of water aside. "What good does it do to make us all live through it again? She's been gone for years."

"She doesn't say dead," Eve commented. "She doesn't say Marsha's name. She can't because it brings it too close to home. Peabody needs to press that button."

"Marsha's death must have shocked you very much at the time. You were close friends."

"Yes, yes, of course. Everyone was shocked and upset. But we've put it behind us."

"You and Marsha were close," Peabody said again. "Friends and neighbors. But you say she never mentioned being dissatisfied in her marriage, never spoke of a relationship with another man."

"Some things even friends and neighbors don't discuss."

"Holding in a secret like that would be hard, stressful."

"I don't know." Maureen pulled the water back toward her, drank. "I've never cheated on my husband."

"Your marriage is secure. Solid."

"Of course it is. Of course."

"You had a difficult obstacle to overcome."

Water spilled over the rim of the cup as Maureen's hand shook. "I'm sorry?"


Tags: J.D. Robb In Death Mystery