The detective greeted them and led them to an interview room. She shuffled through her stack of papers and handed the report over to Vivian.
“Our officer went out and inspected the scene this morning. As reported, the rear passenger tire was slashed. No further damage was done to the car, but it’s clear this wasn’t an accident.” Mancini raised an eyebrow and fixed Vivian with a serious look. “Considering the note that was also found at the scene, I highly suggest you find a closer parking spot. Preferably somewhere with cameras or larger crowds. I’m concerned this guy wants to force you into a situation where you will be alone with him.”
At her side, Zeke tensed. She placed a hand on his thigh under the table and nodded. “I’ll find somewhere closer to park.”
“As you know, previous notes haven’t given us anything useful,” Mancini continued. “But in light of these new interactions, we’re hopeful the suspect makes a mistake soon. The key is to ensure that we limit opportunities for contact.”
Thoughts of all her duties rose. “I can’t stop working,” she protested.
Detective Mancini held up a hand. “I agree. Your life needs to continue in as normal a routine as possible. If drastic changes are made, your stalker may vanish until a better opportunity presents itself, or may become violent.” She instantly grimaced. “I don’t want to worry you and I don’t believe that will happen, but I think you should know the facts.”
“I appreciate that,” Vivian assured her.
“Since I’m still sitting here without cuffs on,” Zeke suddenly said, “I can assume I’m not a person of interest?”
Detective Mancini turned her attention to him, eyes narrowing slightly. “You are not, Mr. Harding. You have quite an impressive past.”
He didn’t respond. If anything, his expression grew more neutral.
“I also noticed that you have your licenses up to dat
e. Considering your history, I feel safe in assuming that you understand the implications if our suspect is found injured.”
Vivian didn’t know what was in Zeke’s past, but the way his lips curved up and his shoulders relaxed as he leaned back in his chair made her wonder exactly what it was he did at The Club.
“I appreciate the warning, Detective,” he murmured. “And if that’s all you can tell us at this time, I’d like to get Viv to the store so we can look into some security upgrades for her apartment.”
Detective Mancini’s lips thinned, but she gave a curt nod and rose from her chair. She shook hands with them both, promising to call if she got more news. Vivian was so busy puzzling out the conversation that the sensation of Zeke’s hand on her lower back made her jump a little.
He looked down at her, concern tightening the corners of his eyes. “I’ll explain in the car.”
“Sure.”
Once they were back in his car, he placed both hands on the steering wheel and looked out through the windshield. “I was enlisted,” he announced without preamble. “That’s what she was talking about.”
“She seemed to think you were dangerous to the guy who’s stalking me,” Vivian said.
“That’s because she’s not a moron.” His fingers tapped restlessly. “I guess it’s better that way. She’ll get the job done right at least.”
Vivian watched him, slowly piecing together her observations. “When you say enlisted, I’m guessing you don’t mean as a regular soldier.”
“No.”
“Special forces?”
“In a manner of speaking.”
“Worse?”
“Depends on your viewpoint.”
“Did you help people?”
“Not sure.”
The absurdity of their curt back-and-forth made her chuckle. He glanced over, forehead wrinkling slightly. “What?”
“I’m seriously going to have to pry this information from you, aren’t I?”