From Riches to Rags Read Online Free PDF Page B

business.”
    “Forgive me for prying; it’s the nature of the business. So, you said on the phone that you need someone found, is that right?”
    Her accent was positively delicious. Her voice was smooth as silk, and the slight southern drawl was soft, and sweet, like cotton candy, but distinct in its southern charm. Unfortunately, she had a wedding ring on her finger, so… wait, what am I saying, I’m gay!
    “Yes. I am here on behalf of a client, who requires your services and your discretion. She’s looking for a girl that she accidently got fired from a restaurant last week. She’d like to make amends for her grievous mistake.”
    “Of course.” She retrieved a pen and pad from her desk and asked, “Would you mind if I made some notes?”
    “That would be fine, if you intend to take the job?” I didn’t see a reason to takes notes unless she was going to, but I wanted to clarify that up front, because I didn’t know what I was doing.
    “I will be happy to wait on the notes, if you would prefer to tell me first, who it is I’m looking for, and who is requesting my services?”
    “Fair enough. My client’s name is Melinda Blackstone, better known as Blackie Blackstone. Do you know her?”
    “Only through the media. I believe she’s the heir to the Blackstone fortune in California.”
    “That would be correct, and she wants you to find Christine Livingston, a waitress about twenty-five, long sandy hair, medium height and green eyes.”
    I looked over at her and saw the most curious look on her face, as if I had surprised her somehow.
    “Is there a problem Ms. Bonner?”
    “No, not at all. However, if you have a minute, I would like to check on something, and be right back with you.”
    “That’s fine, I’m not in a hurry.”
    I watched her disappear through a side door, and a moment later, her receptionist came in from the reception area, asking if she could get me anything. I told her no, and she politely left. I entertained myself by looking closer at the paintings, until Ms. Bonner returned with a slight smile on her face. Another woman, slightly taller, darker and stronger, disheveled looking, like she hadn’t slept in months, followed behind her. My gaydar was ringing so loud I almost told it to be quiet.
    “Mr. Kirk, this is my wife, Meg Bumgartner. She is also a private investigator.”
    “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Bumgartner.” She extended her hand and I shook it, noticing that unlike her wife’s hand, her hand was hard, with a firm grip and she squeezed my hand tightly. Then I turned back to Ms. Bonner. “I’m slightly confused. I thought you were an independent detective?”
    “I am. We both are. You see, we were recently married and have not had a chance to consolidate our business. But sometimes we will consult with each other, at no extra charge to the client of course. I believe that Meg may have some insight into your missing girl, if you wouldn’t mind answering a few more questions?  
    What’s another question or two, if I get twice the help at half the price. “I’d be happy to answer any questions you might have.”
    Ms. Bumgartner wasted no time in asking, “Mr. Kirk, you say your client, Blackie Blackstone, is looking for a waitress named Christine Livingston, is that correct?”
    I nodded my head, trying to hide the curiosity I was developing over her interest in an unemployed waitress. Am I missing something here?
    “And you say that Ms. Livingston is about twenty-five, long sandy hair, and medium height, with green eyes, correct?’
    “Yes, do you know her?” I would be very happy indeed if that were true and I could return to LA tonight. Not to mention how pleased Melinda would be.
    “I apologize, but I need to make a phone call. Please be patient with us for one more minute.” Ms. Bumgartner left the room, leaving me gaping after her.
    “What is that all about?” I asked.
    Ms. Bonner enticed me with her cryptic explanation, “It is