“So, what happened?”
“Dennis took me over to their table and we said hello. Frankly, I think Dennis did it to sort of show me off to Cummins.”
“How did she react?”
“She was pleasant. We spoke for a bit and that was it. We left.”
“What was your impression of the judge?” asked Decker.
“She seemed very put together. I could see why Dennis would be attracted to her. Her friend was a very different sort. I wouldn’t have necessarily put them together.”
“They’re neighbors. Did you speak to Tyler?”
“No, but he did give me the eye.” She smiled demurely. “He’s clearly a red-blooded American male.”
“Anything else you can tell me?”
“Just that I’m certain Dennis had nothing to do with what happened. I’ve dated guys who could be violent, creepy, and controlling, Agent Decker. They try to hide it but they give off a definite vibe after a while. Dennis has none of that.”
“Some hide it better than others.”
“I think you’re barking up the wrong tree.”
“I bark up lots of trees. Till I find the right one.”
“I understand that a man was also found dead at her house,” she said.
“That’s right.”
“Were they dating?” Chase asked.
“I’m not sure.”
“How can you not be sure? Didn’t anyone know?”
“It’s complicated,” replied Decker.
“I guess murder is often complicated.”
“Actually, the act of murder is usually pretty simple. It’s everything else that’s complicated.”
Chapter53
HEY, TYLER, IS YOUR DADhome?” asked Decker.
Tyler had just answered his knock on the condo door. He had on khaki shorts and an untucked short-sleeved shirt.
“He’s getting ready. We’re going out to dinner.”
“Mind if I come in and wait?”
“I guess not.”
He led Decker into an adjoining room and they sat down. A storm was forming out over the Gulf. Its framing in the broad windows served as a capable analogy to what was going on in Decker’s head.
“How’s the investigation going?” mumbled Tyler. “Have you found out stuff?”
“We’re getting there. Do you remember a guy and a woman coming up to you at a restaurant in Naples called Café Midi?” When Tyler looked uncertain, he added, “I think Doris Kline was with you, and the woman was tall, blond, and beautiful. You sort of ran your gaze over her.” He kept his tone diplomatic.