"I'll hold him down for you," she said.

Three slugs of gin later he managed to get away, just as the desk was beginning to look appealing.

As Dean turned the corner to 422 Collingswood Avenue, another car followed and pulled into the drive behind him. He felt a momentary tightness until he recognized Randy Byrne behind the wheel.

"No practice today?" Dean asked as the two shook hands.

"No. The play-offs begin tomorrow and Coach Grayson gave us a free afternoon. We leave for State College in the morning. Ma's coming too." He seemed pleased at that. "She's not much of a baseball fan," he added.

"Best of luck. According to the Sentinel you guys have a good shot at taking it all."

"I hope so," Randy answered. "It would be a nice way to leave Parkside High."

The young man looked ill at ease, as if something was on his mind. Dean suggested a pizza to give him time to get it out, and the two walked a few blocks to a favorite neighborhood spot-red­checkered tablecloth and scenes of Old Sorrento on the walls. They talked mostly baseball until the mushrooms, olives, peppers, onions, sausage and extra cheese of the house special were safely put away.

Finally Randy changed the subject. "Mom let me read your report. It was...interesting, interesting to see how you guys follow up all the details."

"That's what police work is most of the time, just routine fact finding. No TV glamour." He felt like Joe Friday. "Just the facts, son."

"Cece Baldwin sounds like a nice person." Randy had a hint of hesitation in his voice.

"She is. You'd like her. She comes across like a tough gal but she's really very sweet."

Randy looked down at his empty plate. "Do you think she was...in love with my father?"

Dean paused before answering. "No. I don't think so. She needed someone who would listen and understand a little. Your father was a nice enough guy to be that person. That's all."

"You didn't mention anything about the Whitney Motel in the report."

"It didn't have anything to do with the case."

Randy thought a moment. "No, you're right. I don't suppose it did."

Finally he blurted out what was really on his mind. "You're not just seeing my mother so you can get more evidence on the case are you?" Dean started to answer but Randy continued. "'Cause if you are, that's a bum. I think she really likes you."

"No, I'm not." Dean spoke firmly and looked Randy right in the eye. He knew he was answering honestly. "I'm seeing your mother because I enjoy her company." He added, "Very much."




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