“I don’t want to leave her, but I can’t afford to lose another day’s pay. You’re sure you’re okay staying?”
“I’m fine. I have a lot of experience dealing with teens with drug problems; this isn’t that different.”
It sounded leaps and bounds different, but what did I know?
“Thank you. Nana naps most of the day, so you’ll probably be bored.”
“It’s better than sitting in a car staring at a street all day,” Matt chuckled. “I’ll send updates as often as you want so you don’t have to worry.”
How often would be enough? How often would be too much and get me in trouble? Finally, I asked, “Is hourly okay?”
“Hourly is fine.”
“Do you need my phone number?” As soon as the question was out, I regretted it.
“I have it.”
Of course he did. Everyone at SSI probably had my phone number.
“Does this mean you’re going to work?” he asked.
“Yes, but if anything happens, call me and I’ll come right home.”
“I promise. Now let Mary know you’re coming in.”
Before I could ask, Matt added, “Nathan’ll be here in a few minutes to pick you up; he’ll stay at the shop today.”
When had they arranged that? “I, um, I’ll grab my purse.”
Chapter 38
Austin
With CIA credentials, and key and death certificates in a backpack, we entered the first bank on the list. The bank’s logo included both the sun and moon.
“They’ve changed their name, but their earlier advertising promised twenty-four-seven banking services,” Jack said.
They had ATMs and online banking like every other bank, so it wasn’t the boast it was when they’d named the bank.
“I’d like to speak with the branch manager, please,” I said to the woman who greeted us.
“What’s this in reference to? Maybe I could help you.”
“You can’t.” I flashed my badge. “The manager, please.”
When she walked away, Jack said, “You sound different when you flash your badge.”
G laughed. “We all do.”
I didn’t have time to craft a clever comeback because the branch manager approached.
“Gentlemen, I’m Mr. Dougray, the branch manager. How can I help?”
“Mr. Dougray, I’m Officer Winchester, and these are my associates. Can we talk in your office?”
He checked my ID like he’d know how to spot a fake.
“Of course, right this way.”
