As soon as Tim drove up to Martier's cottage Tuesday morning, she came hurrying out of the small house. He didn't have to blow his horn. She must have been waiting right at the door.

"Good morning," he said pleasantly.

She buckled up. "Good morning."

They rode in uncomfortable silence for a while until Tim cleared his throat and Martier's entire body came to attention.

"I meant to tell you that I spoke to that cop's lieutenant yesterday when I went in ...