Look Again - Lisa Scottoline [72]
Our paternity test is the most accurate in the country! We analyze your samples at our state-of-the-art laboratory, using a 16-marker DNA test! Be thorough and collect all samples possible! Results are ready in 3 business days, but can be expedited for a small RUSH charge!
Ellen skipped the blah blah blah, which she’d read online. There had been plenty of DNA-testing companies on the web, including the one she was using. Her research had taught her that there were two testing options: the first was a standard paternity kit, which was admissible in court and required collection of the DNA by a cheek, or bucal, swab. She didn’t need that one, and she doubted the Bravermans would offer up a sample. The second test was the one she was using, a nonstandard DNA test for paternity. Her gaze returned to the form:
For times when the bucal swab method just isn’t possible, simply obtain one of the following items, place it in a brown paper bag, store it at room temperature, and send it to us. Follow precautions below!
Ellen read the precautions:
Must wear gloves so as not to get your DNA on the sample. Store at room temperature and do not get the sample wet. Must be put in a paper bag, not plastic.
She scanned the list of permissible collection items, just to make sure she remembered it correctly:
No need for silly collection kits! You can get DNA from a licked envelope, chewed gum, a soda can or any kind of can, including beer, glass, toothbrush, semen, dried blood stains (including menstrual blood), a strand of hair with the follicle attached, or a cigarette butt!
Ellen folded the papers up and put them in her purse, then slipped the plastic gloves into her jeans pocket. She used the bathroom and left the stall, washing her face and freshening her makeup, which made her feel almost civilized, then took a last look at herself in the mirror, letting her eyes meet their reflection. She had her mother’s eyes, a fact that secretly made them both happy, as if it were confirmation of their closeness. Even now, looking at herself, she could still see her mother, within.
Follow your heart.
It was showtime.
Chapter Fifty-one
Ellen got a table in the outdoor dining area of the restaurant next door to the one with the Bravermans, with a clear view of their table. While the couple ate dinner, she checked her email on the BlackBerry, but there was nothing from Amy Martin. Then she’d called home and said good night to Will while she’d devoured a delicious seviche appetizer, a red-lacquered model boat of sushi, and a frothy cappuccino with almond biscotti.
She watched the Bravermans finish their coffee and share a tiramisu. Bill smoked a final cigarette, his third of the evening, but Carol didn’t smoke, so Ellen would have to take her glass to get a DNA sample from her. The couple had laughed and talked throughout the entire dinner, cementing their qualifications as a happily married couple.
Which doesn’t mean they’re better parents than me.
Bill signaled for the check, so Ellen did the same, catching her waiter’s eye. They paid at about the same time, and she rose right after the Bravermans, ready to swoop down on their table.
Now!
They left and threaded their way to the aisle, and Ellen made a beeline for their table. Suddenly a group of tourists shoved in front of her, blocking her way, and she didn’t reach the table until after the busboy had gathered the glasses.
Damn!
“Table no is clean,” the busboy said in an indeterminate accent, picking up the plates and setting them with a clatter in a large brown tub.
“I’ll just sit a minute.” Ellen plopped into Bill Braverman’s chair. “I only want dessert.”
“No is clean.” The busboy reached for the full ashtray, but Ellen grabbed it from his hands.
“Thanks.” She checked it for gum, in case Carol had chewed some, but it only contained three cigarette butts, all Bill’s. “I’ll need this. I smoke.”
The busboy walked away, but the maitre d’ was craning his neck and peering at the table, along with a foursome