Alex Kava Bundle - Alex Kava [44]
“Yes, Sheriff Morrelli. I’m well aware that Christine is a reporter.” She folded her hands together, apparently noticed a slight tremor and tucked them under the table, safely into her lap. With her eyes now on her coffee, she continued, “We think it would be beneficial to have something in tonight’s paper…about Matthew.” The tremor was now in her voice.
Christine saw Nick softening. If there was one thing her macho brother couldn’t handle, it was a tearful woman. She had used them herself, though there was nothing manipulative about Michelle Tanner’s tears.
“Mrs. Tanner, I’m sorry, but I don’t think that’s a good idea.”
“Actually, it’s a very good idea.”
Christine shifted in her chair, so she could see the woman who appeared from behind Nick. She could have been a model, with flawless skin, lovely high cheekbones, full pouty lips and silky, short dark hair. Her suit draped over a slender, athletic figure with enough curves to hold every man’s attention in the room. However, her voice and stance showed she was unaware of the effect of her femininity. She carried herself confidently and with an air of authority. This woman was not easily intimidated by anything or anyone, let alone a roomful of people who had no idea who she was. Already, Christine liked her.
“Excuse me?” Nick seemed irritated with the woman.
“I think it would be a good idea to involve the media right away.”
Nick glanced around the room. He looked uncomfortable and flustered.
“Can I talk to you a minute? Alone.” He took the woman’s arm, but she immediately jerked it away. Still, she turned to leave the room with him. The crowd opened for her exit. Nick followed.
“Excuse me.” Christine patted Michelle’s hand. She grabbed her notebook. Despite Nick’s fury, she wanted to meet the woman who had just put him in his place. This had to be the FBI expert from Quantico, Special Agent Maggie O’Dell. She wondered what information Agent O’Dell might be willing to supply. Information Nick would keep in a vise grip if it meant protecting his precious reputation.
Nick and Agent O’Dell huddled in a corner of the living room next to the bay window that overlooked the front yard. Several of the police officers stared. Nick’s men knew better and pretended to be occupied with their work.
“I told you he wouldn’t like you being here,” said a voice behind her.
Christine glanced over her shoulder at Hal. “Well, it looks like someone might be changing his mind.”
“Yeah, he’s definitely met his match with that one. I’m going outside for a smoke. Why don’t you join me?”
“Thanks, no. I’m trying to quit.”
“Suit yourself.”
He headed out the front door. The screen whined, then slammed. Nick and Agent O’Dell didn’t even notice. Nick spoke in a hushed tone, confining his anger with clenched teeth. Agent O’Dell looked unscathed by any of it, her voice calm and even.
“Excuse me for interrupting.” As she approached Christine felt Nick’s glare like a slap in the face. She avoided his eyes. “You must be Special Agent O’Dell. I’m Christine Hamilton.” She offered her hand, and O’Dell took it without hesitation.
“Ms. Hamilton.”
The grip was strong and steady.
“In his fury I’m sure Nicky failed to tell you that I’m his sister.”
O’Dell glanced up at Nick, and Christine thought she saw a hint of a smile on the otherwise stoic face.
“I wondered if there was a personal connection.”
“He’s obviously pissed at me, so it’s hard for him to see that I’m really here to help.”
“I’m sure you are.”
“So, you won’t mind answering some questions?”
“I’m sorry, Ms. Hamilton…”
“Christine.”
“Of course, Christine. Despite my opinions, this isn’t my investigation. I’m here strictly to profile this case.”
Christine knew without looking at him that Nick was smiling now. It only made her angry. “So what does that mean? Another press blackout like in the Alverez case? Nicky, that’s only