Page 13 of Twisted (Burbank and Parker 1)

“Ransom?”

“Nope. She comes from a middle-class family. If she was taken, it was for something uglier than cash.”

Elliot looked a little green around the gills. “Besides verifying that she was my student, how can I help the police?”

“Sergeant Erwin’s talking to Lillian now. She knew Cynthia better than any of the rest of us who spoke at the workshop. When they’re finished, he’ll ask you some questions. Anything that pops into your head—even the smallest detail—might mean something. Her work ethic, the classmates she hung around with—something the sergeant asks might trigger a memory. If it does, sing out. It could make a difference.” Sloane shot a quick glance at her watch. “Damn. It’s ten of four. I’ve got to get going. I’ve got three interviews to conduct.”

She went over to where Bob was questioning Lillian. “Excuse me for interrupting, but I’ve got to get to my next appointment. Bob, my offers stand. I’ll be out of town Thursday and Friday, but you have my cell number. Say the word and I’ll get in touch with the Cleveland field office. And, when I get home, I’ll have a talk with Mrs. Alexander.” She crossed her fingers and held them up. “Let’s hope it’s not necessary and Cynthia will be back by then.”

“Yeah. Let’s. Thanks, Sloane.”

“No problem. Lillian, be well.” She waved at Luke, then headed off, pausing only when Elliot caught her arm.

“You sure you can’t stay?” he asked, rubbing his palms together nervously. “I’m not exactly a pro at being interrogated.”

“You’re not being interrogated, just questioned. And you don’t have to be a pro. Just be honest.” Sloane’s mind was already shifting back to Penny’s disappearance and how much she had to accomplish before she left for Boston. “I wish I could hang around for moral support, Elliot, but I can’t. I’ll give you a call later, see how it went.”

“How about dinner instead? You want to grab a bite?”

“Only if you don’t mind eating late. My last interview’s at seven down on Wall Street. I can meet you around eight. Eight-thirty if you want to meet in midtown.”

“Eight-thirty it is. We’ll go to Jake’s. My treat.”

A teasing spark lit Sloane’s eyes at the mention of Jake’s Saloon. It was Elliot’s favorite haunt, just minutes away from John Jay. “Burgers or steak?” she inquired.

He chuckled. “Steak. It’s only fair. You’re putting in extra-long hours for my sake. The least I can do is spring for your favorite—filet mignon.”

“You’re on. See you then.”

CHAPTER

FIVE

DATE: 25 March

TIME: 2300 hours

I enjoyed my customary cup of Earl Grey tea and my single lemon square before I retired for the night. But rather than have them at the coffee table, as I usually do, tonight I enjoyed my bedtime ritual in Aphrodite’s acquiescent presence.

It was a wise choice.

Not that I needed the company. I actually prefer eating my late-night snack alone. But, after the past days with Athena, and the unexpected upset of today, I needed something calming. Aphrodite’s serenity was the perfect balm to my edginess. I brought her fresh rose petals, scattered them around the room. Then I handed her the silver comb-and-brush set I’d purchased especially for her, together with the matching hand mirror, and watched with pleasure as she obeyed my instructions and preened herself.

; She was beautiful—a carbon copy of the illustration and story that lay on her mattress. She was my consummate validation, the reinforcement that all my pain and hard work has paid off, and will continue to.

I am a success.

Soon will come her final rituals.

How I envy her peace.

Canal Street, New York City

March 26, 1:15 A.M.

Lower Manhattan at night was like an outdoor flea market—except the merchandise in the booths was either hot, counterfeit, or both.