“That you honestly believe I am capable of hurting innocent people for no reason.”“You’re not?” I asked, hope softening my voice.“Oh, no, I’m more than capable. I just didn’t realize youknew that.”

“Oh, baby, don’t ask me that question. I know exactly who and what I am…and more to the point, what I’m capable of. How dare you bring your prissy little ass into one of my clubs and pull this shit. You’re lucky you’re still breathing. (Savitar)”

“This isn’t over, Sylvia. I’ll leave you now, but I’m watching. I will not let that bastard hurt you.” I said this just as I reached the door. As she shut the door I heard a strangled whisper, “No, you’re perfectly capable of doing that on your own.”

“Returning my voice to a conversational level, I called back, “Nora, I’m notattempting to embarrass you or single you out. I know you’re capable. But stay behind Chas, okay? You die, you d i e permanently, and for various reasons that we’ve already gotten angsty about together, I don’t want that to happen.”“Okay, okay,” she sighed.“Angsty?” Chas asked. “Ooh! Later, details!”“Yes, later.” With that, I waved the team forward.”

“She decided to be honest. “You”—she pointed at Dee-Ann—“kill at the slightest provocation. I hit for no other reason than I feel like it. And MacDermot is rude and abrasive.” Cella put her arms around each woman’s shoulders and hugged them in tight. “Oh, my God! I just realized. I love you guys!”“You’re touchin’ me,” Dee-Ann complained.“Yeah, but at least this time it’s not ’cause I’m hitting you.”

“Nursemaid, you mean? Someone who can sing me to sleep at bedtime, spoonporridge into my mouth, and wipe my”—he hesitated just long enough to make both servants cringe withdread—“chinif I dribble?”“I haven’t the voice for lullabies and I’m sure you’re perfectly capable of wiping your own…chin, ”