Midas Murders [Book 3 of the Katherine Miller Mysteries] by Janet Lane-Walters Page B

remembered anything about where you were?"
    "No."
    I captured Verdigras’ gaze. “Before Lars and I left the ER, I spoke to the admitting nurse. Did you read her assessment?"
    Anger flashed in his dark eyes. “I did what I felt was appropriate. I believe Bonnie was right when she said you dared to meddle where you weren't wanted. I suggest you keep out of my affairs.” He walked away.
    Lars pulled me into a corner. “What was that about?"
    "At the hospital I asked him to do a blood test for drugs. He refused."
    "Why would he do that?"
    "I haven't a clue to his motives. Could be he's young enough to believe he's always right. Or he could want to please your daughter."
    Lars shook his head. “Stop seeing conspiracies in every smile. Do you want to go across the way and dance with me?"
    "Later. Let's visit the buffet."
    Several times we stopped so he could introduce me to local politicians, businessmen and their wives. Some of the women seemed young enough to be daughters, but that wasn't much different from home.
    People clustered in groups and greeted each other with forced smiles and brittle laughter. When two men engaged Lars in a discussion of interest rates, I slipped away and continued toward the dining room. I was intent on finding another drink and sampling some of the myriad appetizers.
    As I reached the archway I noticed my host laughing with two attractive women. Bonnie and Verdigras stood near the bar. He had his arm around her waist.
    Lars appeared at my side. “Sorry about that."
    "Happens."
    "Boring,” he said. “Told them to leave business at the office. Meet any more suspects?"
    "None I'd consider criminals. Most of the crimes I've witnessed are social."
    His booming laughter caused several people to turn and stare. One, a man with streaks of silver in his ebony hair left a group and held out his hand to Lars.
    "Amigo, good to see you.” Perfect teeth flashed when he smiled. “Heard you were lost, strayed or stolen."
    "Seems that way. Kate, this is Rafe Diaz. He does for money what you do for fun. Kate finds bodies in her spare time."
    Rafe's dark eyes sparkled with interest. So this was the man Don had called. Had he learned anything?
    "Pleased to meet a kindred spirit at this affair,” he said.
    I smiled. “I think we need to talk."
    He looked at Lars. “Do you mind? Ramona was right. She said you were warm and direct. She also mentioned a gato grande."
    My laughter joined the men's. “Robespierre would be flattered. The next time you visit Don and Megan, you can see a miniature version of him."
    Rafe took my arm. “Lars, excuse us. I'm stealing her so we can speak of our adventures in crime."
    "Don't encourage her, but enjoy."
    Rafe and I made our way toward the buffet. “What can you tell me about Lars’ vanishing act. Don suggested we not tell his sister that I'm involved."
    "Good idea. I can't give you much information, but this whole matter troubles me. Why don't you fetch me a daiquiri and I'll get some snacks."
    While he headed to the bar, I filled a plate with finger foods. I chose a table near one of the doors to the courtyard.
    While I ate, I related the story from Lars’ phone call the night before I left home to the hospital and Verdigras’ refusal to order the tox screen. “Other than the few things Lars remembered, that's it except for the uneasiness I feel."
    "What did he recall?"
    I told him. “Have you learned anything."
    "Still looking for the cab driver. If I can find him and he remembers where he picked up Lars, we'll have a starting place for the search."
    "What about the adobe house?"
    He chuckled. “In Santa Fe, they're the norm."
    "Lars said the house smelled musty. Could it be for rent or sale?"
    He frowned. “That's a thought. One thing. I asked around the station and none of my buddies knew about Bonnie's call. That sort of thing gets around."
    "I heard her talking to someone."
    "I'll keep asking.” He turned his head. My gaze followed his to where Bonnie and