Also by Scott Westerfeld The first book in the trilogy ... - Webgarden

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Generated by ABC Amber LIT Converter, http://www.processtext.com/abclit.html “And although you downplayed it, you do believe there is a murder connected to this art theft.” “Yes, I downplayed it, and yes I believe it. Perhaps two murders.” “A wonderful art appraiser, a fine woman who knew her business, was killed this week.” Nikki jumped to her feet. “Do you know anything about that?” “No, I only knew Barbara from occasional meetings years ago. But she was among the best. Let’s say knowing her death might be part of this only engages me more in your investigation.” “Thanks for that. Please call me with anything you find out.” “Detective, I have information right now. Trust me, I wouldn’t have wasted either of our time unless I could provide substance.” Nikki flipped open her pad. “Has someone already tried to fence the paintings?” “Yes and no,” answered Casper. “Someone did sell just one of the paintings, the Jacques-Louis David. But that sale took place two years ago.” Nikki began to pace. “What? And you’re absolutely sure of this?” There was a pause and a half before the dapper art thief replied. “My dear, think of what you know about me and consider if you truly require an answer to that question.” “Point made,” said Nikki. “I’m not doubting you, I’m just confused. How can a painting be in Matthew Starr’s collection if it was sold two years ago?” “Detective, you’re smart. How good are you at math?” “Pretty good.” “Then your answer is to do some.” And then Casper hung up. SEVENTEEN The receptionist at Starr Real Estate Development popped back on and told Detective Heat that Paxton would be right with her. Nikki felt like she was straining at a leash. Even hearing Anita Baker on the hold music didn’t soothe her. It wasn’t the first time in her life she seemed to be moving at a different pace than the rest of the world. Hell, it wasn’t even the first time that day. At last, a ring-through. “Hi, sorry about the wait. I’m buttoning up a lot of Matthew’s affairs.” That could have so many meanings, she thought. “Last call, I promise.” Page 330
Generated by ABC Amber LIT Converter, http://www.processtext.com/abclit.html “It’s no bother, honest.” Then he laughed and said, “Although…” “Although what?” “I wonder if it would be easier if I just set up my office over there at your precinct.” Nikki laughed, too. “You could. You have the better view, but we have nicer furniture. How sad is that?” “I’ll stick with the view. So tell me how I can help you, Detective.” “I was hoping you could look up the name of the company that insured Matthew’s art collection.” “Sure thing.” He paused. “But you recall I told you he had me cancel that policy.” “Yes, I know. I just want to ask them if they kept documentary photos of the collection I can use to hunt it down.” “Oh, oh, pictures, right. Never thought of that. Good idea. Got a pen?” “Ready.” “It’s GothAmerican Insurance here in Manhattan.” She heard sharp keystrokes and he continued, “Ready for the phone number?” After she took it down, Nikki said, “May I ask you one more question? It will save me a call later.” She could hear the smile in his voice when Noah answered, “I doubt that, but go ahead.” “Did you cut a check for Kimberly Starr to buy a piano recently?” “A piano?” And then he repeated, “A piano? No.” “Well she bought one.” Heat looked at the CSI photo in her hand of the Starr living room. “It’s a beaut. A Steinway Karl Lagerfeld edition.” “Kimberly, Kimberly, Kimberly.” “These list for eighty thousand. How could she afford that?” “Welcome to my world, Detective. Not the craziest thing she’s done. Want to hear about the speedboat she bought last fall in the Hamptons?” “But where did she get the money?” “Not from me.” Nikki checked her watch. She might be able to get to the insurance folks before lunch. “Thanks, Noah, that’s all I need.” Page 331
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Also by Scott Westerfeld The first book in the trilogy ... - Webgarden

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