Page 54

Theo Washington

Margo owed him big-time.

Watch the church, she said. Keep an eye on her uncle, she said.

So when Theo was done with classes for the day, he parked himself outside St. Dominic’s under a big oak tree and rolled down the window. Laughter from kids running on the playground made him feel like a creep. Wouldn’t it be just fabulous if a couple cops rolled up on him as he watched the kids play.

He didn’t want to be here.

But it was Margo, and she’d made him cards that said he was an associate at Margo Angelhart Investigations. They looked pretty damn cool and official.

A rap on his window had him jumping. He immediately thought cop and that he would have to explain he wasn’t a pervert, that he was working, really.

He turned and saw the priest standing there, his collar very white against the black shirt and slacks. “Hey, um, Father. You doing good?”

Rafe smiled and said, “I appreciate you keeping an eye on things, but I’m sure my niece didn’t mean for you to sit out here all day.”

“Margo would be here, but she’s wrapping up another case. She’ll relieve me later.”

“Come in, have something cold to drink. I just made fresh iced tea. It’s hot out here.”

Without waiting for Theo’s answer, he started back toward the rectory.

Theo hesitated only a second, then followed.

Margo told him to keep an eye on her Uncle Rafe, might as well do it inside with a refreshing drink.

Still, Theo took one more look down the street, just to make sure Carillo wasn’t watching them.

All clear.