Kisser (Stone Barrington 17)

“Studying?” Stone asked, puzzled.

“He has been promoted to inspector, and tomorrow he starts his new job as lecturer on tactics at the police academy, his reward for a job well done.”

Stone nearly choked on his Knob Creek.

“That said, I think we should raise our glasses to Mitzi,” the commissioner said. “This afternoon she was promoted to lieutenant, and tomorrow she will command the detective squad at the First Precinct.”

Stone’s mouth dropped open, and Mitzi reached over, placed a finger under his chin, and closed it. “Congratulations,” he managed to say.

Dino spoke up. “I heard there were some transfers from that squad,” he said, “to new assignments in Brooklyn.”

“Yes,” the commissioner replied, “all promotions. Mitzi will pick her own people.”

“All of them women,” Mitzi said.

The commissioner looked at her. “All of them women?”

She regarded him evenly. “Yes, sir.”

Dinner was served. When they were done, the commissioner stood up, followed by Mitzi. “We have to be going,” he said. “ Barrington, give me your badge,” he said.

Stone fished out his Doyle-provided badge and handed it over.

The commissioner placed a small velvet box on the table. “Open it,” he said.

Stone picked up the box and opened it. Inside was a retirement badge for a Detective First Grade. From its weight, he judged it to be not plated but solid gold.

The commissioner handed him an envelope. “Here are your retirement papers,” he said, “at your new grade.” He shook everyone’s hand and left, taking Mitzi with him.

Stone sat down.

“You look stunned,” Dino said.

“I am.”

“You should be. By the way, I’m your date for the theater tomorrow night.”

Stone looked at him. “You?”

“You were hoping Mitzi? Not going to happen. Carrie sent me a single ticket, too, for the seat next to yours. In fact, I don’t think you’re going to be seeing as much of Mitzi in the future.”

“What’s going on, Dino?”

“Word is, the commissioner is retiring.”

“What’s that got to do with Mitzi?”

“Word is, he’s getting married, too.”

Stone stared at him. “You wouldn’t kid me?”

“I kid you not.”

“I need another drink,” Stone said.

61

DINO PICKED UP STONE in his department car and drove him to the theater.