Read Online Passion's Law by Ruth Langan - Free Book Online Page B

Hewondered just what the hell he was doing here. He was being paid to investigate not one, but two attempts on Joe Colton’s life. And here he was drinking with the intended victim and thinking things he had no right to about the victim’s niece.
    He glowered as Jackson Colton entered the courtyard and joined them. It occurred to Thad that this man might very well be the snake in the Garden of Eden. Right now he was number one on the list of suspects.
    Still, the music of the fountain and the coolness of the courtyard and the soothing sound of Heather’s velvet voice were all conspiring against him.
    What harm would it do to relax and simply savor the moment?
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    The moment turned into more than two hours, during which they laughed, argued politics and world trade, and enjoyed a simple meal of grilled salmon and a salad of tomatoes and onions marinated in the most amazing dressing Thad had ever tasted.
    â€œI want this recipe,” he remarked as he filled his plate a second time.
    â€œYou cook?” Heather shot him a look across the patio table.
    He shrugged. “When I find the time. Which isn’toften. But there’s something satisfying about cooking. Especially over a grill. Ever try it?”
    She chuckled. “Not often. But I do know how to cook. When the spirit moves me, that is.” She motioned toward his empty mug. “Want another beer?”
    He shook his head. “No thanks. I have a long drive ahead of me. But if there’s coffee, I’d love some.”
    Heather walked to the kitchen and returned minutes later with a tray of coffee, cups and saucers, sugar and cream.
    While she poured and passed them around, Joe glanced up at the lights of an approaching car. “Looks like we’ve got company.”
    Minutes later Inez scurried off to the front door and returned, followed by a well-dressed man.
    â€œGraham.” Joe Colton was on his feet and halfway across the courtyard before his guest could say a word. After greeting him, Joe led him toward the table where Heather and Thad were standing alongside Jackson.
    After Heather had greeted her uncle, Joe turned to Thad. “Detective Thad Law, this is my brother Graham.”
    â€œDetective Law.” Graham looked from his brother to the detective who towered over him. “Jackson called me about this latest shooting. I’msorry I couldn’t be here sooner. Business in San Francisco. Have they found the gunman?”
    â€œNot yet. But they’re working on it.”
    â€œYes, this looks like hard work,” Graham said with a trace of sarcasm.
    â€œThad’s off duty at the moment.” Joe’s usual smile faded a bit. “We were just finishing dinner. Have you eaten?”
    â€œI figured I’d let you feed me.” Graham, looking dapper in custom-tailored slacks and shirt, settled into a chair and carefully crossed one Italian leather-clad foot over the other. “What were you drinking?” He looked around and, spotting the empty mugs, gave a laugh. “Beer? I’ll have Scotch. Rocks.” He turned his attention to Thad. “So, Detective, are you close to finding this madman? Or don’t you discuss business after hours?”
    Thad studied Joe’s brother with the same care he used on everyone he met. “Like Joe said, we were just enjoying dinner.”
    Joe handed his brother a tumbler of Scotch before settling into the chair beside him. His smile was warm and easy. “Well, Graham, I must say this visit is a pleasant surprise. Jackson thought you wouldn’t be here for at least a few more days.”
    â€œA surprise?” Graham turned to fix him with a look. “You mean Meredith didn’t tell you I was coming?”
    â€œShe knew?”
    Graham nodded. “I called her this morning and told her I was on my way.” He glanced around. “Where is Meredith?”
    â€œShe had an appointment at LaBelle. She’ll be gone