J. Jance - A more perfect union

It was Kaplan who had discovered the leak and sicced Harry Campbell on Logan Tyree and Angie Dixon in a futile attempt at damage control to cover up disclosure of those worthless tapes. In the state of Washington, conspiracy to commit murder is as good as doing the job yourself. In a year or so, maybe Don Kaplan and Harry Campbell will be occupying neighboring cells on Death Row in Walla Walla.

Ames was waiting when I got to the Doghouse. He had already ordered-for both of us. Wanda brought me my bacon and eggs, accompanied by a knowing smile. "I saw your friend's picture in the paper this morning," she said.

"What friend is that?" I asked.

"You know. The movie star."

"What about him?"

"He got married in Las Vegas yesterday to some woman he met while he was here in Seattle."

"Derrick Parker got married?" I asked incredulously, not quite trusting my ears. "You've got to be kidding!"

Wanda shook her head. "Hold on, I think I can find the picture."

Sure enough, when she brought it, there was Derrick Parker, grinning from ear to ear. Next to him stood a radiant Merrilee Jackson.

I didn't say a word. Who the hell am I to criticize whirlwind courtships?

When we got up to leave, there was a man waiting for a table. Somewhat oversized, he was wearing a black-and-white T-shirt. I'M FAT BUT YOU'RE UGLY, the shirt proclaimed. I CAN GO ON A DIET.

I'm sure Ralph Ames thought I was crazy when I burst out laughing.

"What's so funny?" he asked.

I nodded toward the shirt. "It reminds me of Detective Kramer and J. P. Beaumont."

"How's that?"

"Kramer's probably still down at the department sopping up every bit of glory he can muster."

"So?"

"So maybe I am a playboy cop, and maybe Kramer will turn out to be Chief some day when he grows up, but I'm like that fat man who can go on a diet. I can always quit. Anytime I want to."

Ralph Ames looked at me speculatively. "Anytime," he agreed, nodding. "It's up to you."