Page 123 of The Bone Code

“She didn’t quit. She was fired.”

“Why?”

“The usual. A young woman, too many distractions—”

“What distractions?” Cool. Ryan wasn’t digging Murray’s arrogance.

“It’s been a very long time, detective.”

“Dig deep.”

“I’m certain she was terminated for failure to carry out her duties.”

“What does that mean?” Ryan pressed.

“She was incompetent. Is that what you want to hear?”

“You the one who canned her?” Low and hard.

Murray drew back in his chair, playing the role of insulted innocent. “I didn’t agree to this meeting in order to be badgered.”

“Whydidyou? Surely an underling could have handled something this mundane.”

“What division did you say you’re with, detective?”

“I didn’t.”

“I’m afraid I must request ID.” Stiff.

“Damn. Tendered my badge last year.”

“You’re no longer officially employed by law enforcement?” A flush crept up Murray’s neck. Embarrassment? Anger?

Ryan smiled, oh so unperturbed.

Murray stood, every vertebra aligning perfectly. “We’re done here.”

“One last question, doc.” As Ryan and I rose. “You being a good corporate citizen and all.”

Murray glared but didn’t walk away.

“When Ms. Chalamet stopped working here, where did she go?”

“I’ve no earthly clue.”

Eisenberg’s chin came up again, and her eyes sought mine.

Her head wagged slowly.

Crossing to the parking lot, I described Eisenberg’s odd reaction, not an easy task, given my wind-numbed lips and cheeks.

Ryan was silent behind his muffler.

“I slipped her my card.” Frosty vapor puffing from my mouth.

“Think she’ll call?”

I shrugged. “Who knows?”