Dead on the Fourth of July (David Dean Mysteries)

"Go buy a couple of pints of vodka, Seymour," Dean said as the trio left. "Only this time, drink them yourself." Fitzgerald's reaction was shock and anger. He started to say something but both of the accompanying officers all but pushed him out the door.

Cynthia looked about to cry, but her anger held her tears in check, at least until they were back in bed.

"That's my gal," Dean said. "I'll send you a file in a cake if Fitzgerald jails you for assault."

"I did it as a defensive measure," Cynthia said. "I was sure you'd whack the son of a bitch and maybe kill him and I didn't want to be a jailhouse widow and run Bird Song alone." Then the tears came. "Poor Martha, out there somewhere with that crazy woman! I know she's her mother, but how could anyone put a child in harm's way like that? And how could the state be so stupid to let it happen?"

Hours later they were still awake, talking intermittently, taking comfort in one another. When Fred returned later yet, Dean rose and told him the news. Back in bed, Cynthia remained awake and was sitting up.

"If Fitzgerald disliked you before, I can't think how strong his feelings are now," she said. "We'd better watch our step and not give him any excuse to harass us further."

Dean agreed. He'd seen Fitzgerald's reaction at the mention of the vodka. Revenge might be far more than harassment.