“She claimed he was the only one other than herself in the house when the jewelry went missing.”
“What did you do?”
“I confronted Alice about it. She vouched for Draymont, said the allegations were untrue. That the woman was unreliable and was perhaps looking for a way to not pay us.”
“Why was she getting protection?”
“Her husband was working overseas and had been threatened. He was the CEO of a subsidiary of a major U.S. company. The threats extended to his family. The company hired us.”
“So the couple wasn’t even paying the bill?”
“No, but Alice wouldn’t necessarily know the financial arrangements.”
“Which made you suspect she was lying?”
“Yes. And the necklace later turned up in a raid on a fencing operation.”
“So maybe Draymont was innocent.”
“No, I don’t believe so. The fencing operation wasn’t even in Florida. The necklace was sold to them. They are known to be a central clearing house for stolen property.”
“Any firm evidence connecting either Lancer or Draymont with the stolen jewelry?”
“No.”
“I don’t know what you want me to do.”
“I’m not sure, either.” She glanced at him. “Have you found out anything that leads you to believe they were dishonest?”
“Why do I sense another fishing expedition by you? If so, I’m going back to bed.”
“It’s not that. I swear. This could be very serious for my business. If our reputation is no good…?”
“So your business is the most important thing in your life?”
“It was my father’s business. Andhewas the most important thing in my life.”
“What I can say is that from what we’ve uncovered, honesty did not seem to be a priority for either Lancer or Draymont.” He looked at her. “Does that make you feel better or worse? I mean, they worked for you, after all.”
“It doesn’t make me feel great.” She paused. “Have you found out anything about what happened to my father?”
“I made inquiries, like I told you. But I do have another case to work.”
“I understand. I was just hoping that—”
“Why do I think there’s something else hanging over your head?”
“Why do you say that?”
“Because you didn’t have to drive all the way here at night to tell me what you just did. It all could have been said over the phone or via email. Soisthere something else? Because you look like you’re going to throw up.”
Her fingers anxiously played over the steering wheel. Then she started the engine and put on her seat belt. “Buckle up, we’re going somewhere.”
“Where?”
“Toshowyou the answer to your question.”
Chapter57