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“I didn’t sneak behind your back,” Pete said. “No promises were made. You found an expert. I found an expert. Together, we’ll figure out what went on behind this wall.”
“I already have a good idea,” Poindexter said. “Although, to avoid any confusion, this isn’t Randi Colbane.”
“I couldn’t get her after all,” Elvira grumbled. “But I got second best. Please meet Janet Gigowski.”
“It’s nice to see you again.” Janet shook Arvid Poindexter’s hand.
“Same here. I welcome your expert opinion,” he said.
“Ditto.”
“Blah, blah, blah.” Elvira clapped her hands. “Can we skip the kissy face and get to work?”
“Elvira Cobb.” Carlita wagged her finger. “You’re the one who’s late. Being rude is uncalled for.”
“It’s okay.” The woman waved dismissively. “I’ve dealt with Elvira before. I’m accustomed to her tantrums.”
“Tantrums?” Elvira scowled. “I’m not having a tantrum. Time is money. I’m all business.”
“And all annoying,” Carlita whispered under her breath.
Dernice, who was standing next to her, snickered.
“What did you say?”
“Never mind.” Carlita and Pete led the colleagues to the opening and waited in the tunnel while they got to work.
Using the spotlight, they carefully examined the markings in the dirt. Next, they examined all four walls and the ceiling.
Elvira alternated between pacing and watching. Pacing and watching. The minutes ticked by and her face turned a deep shade of red.
Carlita stopped her. “Are you all right? Your face is red.”
“I’m fine. Just a little nervous. This is a big deal.”
“Yes, it is. Regardless, you have other future endeavors on the table,” Carlita reminded her.
“Alaska.” Elvira brightened. “I forgot to tell you. It’s a done deal.”
“You’re heading to Alaska?”
“Yep. I’m joining a gold mining crew in Whittier to learn everything I can about it.”
“Good for you. When?”
“I’m still working on a timeline,” Elvira said. “Sometime this summer. I’m also trying to coordinate booking a cruise to see Sharky.”
“I’m sure he’s thrilled.”
“He doesn’t know. It will be a surprise.” Elvira smiled widely. “He’ll be geeked.”
“Are you…sure you don’t want to let him know you’ll be coming?”
“Nah.” She waved dismissively. “It’ll be fine.”
“If you say so.” Carlita didn’t know Sharky well, only well enough to suspect he might not be thrilled at having his girlfriend show up unannounced and unexpectedly. Still, it was her call.
Elvira scooted past the onlookers and leaned into the opening. “How’s it going?”