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“Of course At the risk of sounding defensive, ould I put an FBI agent’s number in my phone?”

Phipps shared the ghost of a smile “We could help each other”

Enough already “What do you want from me?” I said

“Any inforhter”

I shrugged “Well, if that’s all you need, hang on”

Leaving Phipps at the door, I retrieved the death certificate I’d been waving about like a flag

Phipps looked the document over He raised an eyebrow “Is this all you have?”

“What more do you want? A treasure map?”

The ghost smile returned “Is this your only copy?”

“Keep it,” I said “My treat”

Phipps nodded once “Don’t forget I have friends in law enforcement If you ever need a reference”

“Thanks,” I said “Good luck withwhatever”

I closed the door Phipps’ words lingered Were they a promise or a threat?

THE END