Page 8 of Near Miss

“Did you get a look at his face?”

“No, he was more of just a shape. It was hulking, I suppose you’d say.”

“I didn’t know you were such a quick judge, Stone.”

“When we leave here today, we’ll see if he’s hanging about.”

“Okay.”

After lunch, they left the club by its front door. Normally, they’d have driven away from the garage, which was more discreet, but Stone wanted a look around.

“There,” he said, “just turning the corner.”

“I only caught a glimpse,” Dino said, “but your description was accurate.”

“How would you classify him?” Stone asked.

“I think he’scapableof being a threat,” Dino said. “That’s not necessarily an accurate assessment of his intentions, but it’s troubling that you’ve seen him twice today already. I think you should treat him as a threat, until we know more. If you see him coming, cross the street. Then, let’s see if he crosses with you. I don’t suppose you’re carrying.”

“Maybe I should be,” Stone replied.

“You’ll live longer if you follow my advice,” Dino said. “Carry a fucking gun.”

“You think my guns are too light. I’m not going to carry a .45 just to make you happy.”

“Then carry one of those dear little .380s you’re so fond of. You’re more interested in your suit hanging right than protecting your life.”

“That’s a dirty communist lie,” Stone said. “I’m very fond of my life.”

“Well, you can always shoot them in the head,” Dino said.“Even a .380 will make an attacker think twice, if he can still think. Have you seen any more of that girl who has the same name as your mother?”

“Yes, and again tonight,” Stone said. “Herbie Fisher is throwing a soiree, and we’re going there.”

“I got that invitation, too, and Viv gets back today, so maybe we’ll see you there.”

They parted. Stone got into the Bentley, which Fred, his driver and factotum, had pulled up beside them. Dino got into his own, city-supplied vehicle. As he was driven away, Stone heard a growl from the police car’s siren, which made him laugh.

“Home, Fred,” Stone said, “and I’ll need you at six-thirty this evening.”

“Yes, sir,” Fred replied.

“Fred, have you seen anyone suspicious hanging about?”

“You mean the big fellow?”

“That’s the one. I’ve seen him twice today, and that’s too many times.”

“I’ll keep a sharp eye out,” Fred said, and Stone knew he meant it. He also knew that Fred habitually packed.

“Will we be picking up a young lady, sir?” Fred asked.

“She’s coming to the house, directly from her work.”

“Got it, sir. The car will be ready at six-thirty.”

Matilda was a little early, so they had time for a drink before departing for Herb Fisher’s party. Standing in his study, she unpacked her large handbag, took off her dress, and liberated a black sheath from the bag.

Stone watched with pleasure.

---