Page 133 of Skeletons in the Closet

“I guess. We’re family.”

“Right. Go us.”

We sat in silence. When Costa didn’t get up to leave, I flashed my gaze in his direction. “Did Doyle tell you to send me home?”

“No. You’re free to do whatever you want.”

“Okay. Good because I’m staying.”

“Cool.”

He didn’t move.

More silence ensued.

After a time, Costa clucked his tongue. “So… you and Krause, huh?”

“No.”

“No? That’s not what the rumor mill’s spitting out.”

“Well, the rumor mill is wrong.”

“Why are you hanging out with him so much?”

“He needed help with another case.”

“Another one?” Costa chuckled, and I knew he didn’t believe me. That was fine. I didn’t care and didn’t have to explain myself to him.

But I changed the subject since I didn’t want to discuss the odd and useless bond I’d grown with Diem. “So… how’sthe family?”

Costa rubbed a hand along his thigh. “Well, if you meant my wife and girls, we’re great. If you’re asking about my dad or your dad, then I don’t know. We’re no longer in touch.”

I clenched my jaw. “At all?”

“Nope. I can’t be part of their close-minded lives. My best friend is gay, and I want my girls to grow up in a world where people are free to love whoever they want.”

“It sounds weird hearing you say that.”

“People change, Tallus.”

“Good. They should.”

“You wanna pop outta here and get a coffee or something?”

“No.” I glanced at the interview room door again. “It’s not a good time.”

Costa slapped his knee and moved to stand. “All right. I tried.”

“Wait. I’m not… I don’t want to leave him. I want to be here when they finish.”

Costa tucked his hands in his pockets. “Okay.”

“Can I take a rain check?”

“Only if you want to.”

“I do.”

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