Page 48 of Lethal Seduction

"When did this happen?"

"Today," he replies. "We were at the shooting range, and when we got back to the cars, I realized they were gone."

Damn. "Do you know if the range has security cameras?"

"I'm not sure," Patrick admits.

"I'll check it out," I say, grabbing my jacket. Just then, Joe returns with our food.

"Thanks, Michael," Patrick says. "I really appreciate it. Sorry to bother you."

"It's no bother," I assure him. "I'll be there soon."

"Can you come over after work?" he asks. "I could really use your company."

"Of course," I reply. "I'll check the cameras and then head over."

"Thank you," Patrick says, sounding relieved. "I'll see you later."

"What was that about?" Joe asks, digging into his chili fries.

"That guy I went out with the other night," I explain. "His keys got stolen, and he's freaked out."

"Looks like you're his knight in shining armor," Joe jokes.

I chuckle. "Something like that. I'm going to check the security cameras at the shooting range. Wanna come?"

"Nah," Joe declines. "I'll stay here and stare at this whiteboard a little longer. Plus, the Missus is making lasagna tonight."

"Save me some leftovers," I request with a grin.

"You got it," Joe replies, handing me a bag of food. "Go save the day."

I head out, but the more I think about it, the less funny the situation seems. Missing keys could be nothing, but with the case I'm working on, it could be connected. Not to mention, thatday at the mall where I know I saw someone following Patrick and Tina. It was a dead end at that time as the mall security cameras were offline, but it still adds up to being interesting… suspect.

As I drive to the shooting range, I can't shake the feeling of unease. When I arrive, I ask about security cameras, but it turns out they're all fake. No footage to review. Again? What were the chances?

Back in my car, I ponder the situation. There's no way I'm not spending the night at Patrick's place. And I'm not there for anything other than to help him feel safe.

When I get to his building, his neighbor, Diamond, approaches me.

"Hey, mister," she greets me. "Looking for a good time?"

I smile but politely decline. "I'm here to see Patrick. Is he home?"

She nods. "Sure is. He got back a while ago."

"Do you keep an eye on him?" I ask.

"That boy needs someone looking out for him," she says. "I feel responsible."

"I'm glad you do," I reply. "He needs friends."

"We all do," she agrees. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to make some money."

I hand her some cash and my business card. "Consider it a donation to the Patrick Protection Fund. If you see anything suspicious, let me know."

She accepts the money and promises to keep an eye out. As she walks away, I hurry up the steps to his place and knock on the door. I hear him approach, no doubt double-checking through the peephole to make sure it's me before unlocking the door.

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