Page 17 of Over the Edge

“What other work has he done for you?”

“Just one small job. He installed a chair rail in our bedroom before we repainted about a month ago.”

So the man had been inside the main house, knew the layout, and had had the opportunity to poke around the master bedroom closet—and discover the jewelry armoire.

Jack asked a few more questions that provided no additional helpful information, then closed his notebook. “The only place we see evidence of activity beyond the kitchen is the master bedroom closet. It appears jewelry may have been stolen.”

“Do you think this was a robbery? That James surprised the person?”

“That’s one possibility. After we release the scene, I’ll have someone walk with you through the house. Please let them know if you see anything else out of order. We’ll also need a list of any items that are missing. Is there somewhere you can go until we’re finished here, perhaps overnight?”

“I have a friend with a guest cottage.”

“That would work.” He gave her one of his cards, rose, and extended his hand. “My condolences on your loss. I promise we’ll do our best to find whoever is behind what happened here today.”

“Thank you.” She stood too, unfolding her model-like frame as she placed her cold fingers in his and returned his squeeze. “I’ll call my friend.”

“Whenever you’re ready to leave, I’ll have someone walk with you to the bedroom so you can pack a bag.” And keep her away from the kitchen, where Lacey was still at work. “I’ll be in touch.”

After leaving the room, he rounded up an officer to accompany her, then continued to the kitchen.

Lacey looked up from beside the body as he entered, her short, gray-streaked ebony curls barely contained by the cap she’d pulled over them. “Keep your distance or Hank will have your head.” The twinkle in her eyes offset the warning.

“Duly noted. I’ll stay on the threshold. What do you have?”

She pushed herself to her feet and stretched her back. “I’m getting too old for this kind of work.”

“Never. The medical examiner’s office would be lost without you.”

“Everyone’s replaceable. But thanks for the ego boost.” She motioned to the victim. “I’m seeing two gunshot wounds to the chest as probable cause of death. To be confirmed by an autopsy, of course.”

“You done here?” Hank bustled in.

“Yes.” Lacey stripped off her gloves. “We’re ready to transport the body.”

“You don’t have to hang around.” Hank turned to him.

Jack edged toward the door. “Wasn’t planning to. I want to talk to Cate.”

“She’s in the laundry room. Through there.” He waved a hand toward a hallway, set his kit on the floor, and opened it.

“Talk to you soon, Lacey.” Jack headed the direction Hank had indicated.

“Don’t make it too soon. We’re backed up. Be patient.”

“As if,” Hank muttered.

Jack sent him a dark look. Apparently everyone at County knew about his reputation for wanting answers yesterday. “I can be patient.”

That drew a snort from Hank.

“I’m out of here.” Jack turned to go.

“Good.” Hank got to work.

With a wave at Lacey, Jack escaped to the laundry room.

Cate had claimed a straight-backed chair by the laundry-folding table, and her head was bent over her laptop. She motioned to a stool against the opposite wall as he entered. “Have a seat.”

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