Page 152 of The Advocate’s Ultimatum

“That’s a very optimistic no.”

The bailiff came out again. “Anyone here on the Johnson case?” More movement down the hallway.

Rourke looked around at the courthouse traffic. “You know, I still miss this sometimes.”

Sabre looked at him sideways. “You miss sitting on hallway benches for two hours waiting on continuances?”

“No.” He grinned again. “I miss working with you.”

That caught her off guard just enough for him to notice.

“You were terrifying back then,” he added.

“I’m still terrifying.”

“I believe it.”

For a few moments they sat watching people move through the corridor.

Then Rourke said casually, “How’s that case going?”

Sabre looked over. “Which one?”

“The girl connected to the old Hannah situation.”

“Complicated,” Sabre answered carefully.

“I figured.”

“She’s talking some.”

“Enough to help?”

“Not really.”

Rourke shrugged. “I spent years wondering what happened to that little girl. And now suddenly there’s a homicide tied to a teenager connected to the case.” He shook his head. “You have to wonder.”

“Those cases are the toughest.”

“What’s your read?” he asked. “Do you think the girl is protecting somebody?”

“I think so, but she won’t give any names. I’m still not sure what her name is.”

Rourke nodded. “I hope I’m not overstepping. I’ve just never been able to shake that case. Old habits.”

“You’re still investigating even when you’re not investigating.”

“Probably.”

The bailiff stepped out again. “The Ellison case.”

Sabre ignored him.

Rourke lowered his voice. “Do the police think she acted alone?”

Sabre glanced at him. “I’m not sure where they’re going with this. Once they dig in on a suspect, they don’t usually look much further. But we’re still reviewing discovery. We have a few discrepancies in the case, but not enough for a good defense.”

Rourke nodded again. “I hope things improve.”