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Since he was going to stand, Eve rose to face him “It’s a simple question”

“Yes, I ga”

“How much do you owe?”

His fingers tightened on the glass “I believe at this point, my mother would have advised me to consult counsel”

“That’s certainly your right I’elini I’ht of your mother’s death” Just as she was fully aware that shuttles skiet a clear picture, a full and clear picture You’re under no obligation to answer my question But I can, with very little trouble, access that information”

The ive or take a few dollars”

“Are you unable to settle the debt?”

“I am neither a welsher nor a pauper, Lieutenant Dallas,” he said stiffly “It can and will be settled shortly”

“Was your mother aware of it?”

“Neither am I a child, Lieutenant, who needs to run to his mother for help whenever he skins a knuckle”

“You and Randall Slade gaether?”

“We did My sister disapproves, so Randy has given up the hobby”

“Not before he incurred debts of his own”

His eyes, very like his father’s, chilled “I wouldn’t know about that, nor would I discuss his business with you”

Oh yes, you would, Eve thought, but let it slide for the o? You were there?”