Barely Legal

59

Melanie came downstairs from Herbie’s room.

“How’s he doing?” Stone asked.

“Better. I’m going to go.”

“Do you want a ride home?”

“Is that necessary?”

“No, I’m just offering.”

“Why did you have me picked up at the hospital?”

Stone started to give her a vague answer, but changed his mind. This wasn’t the type of girl to bullshit. “To keep you safe.”

“Really?”

“Yes.”

She smiled. “Now that I’ve seen Herbie, you don’t care?”

“No, I don’t think we need to anymore. When I sent the car, I thought this had to do with your brother’s case. Apparently I was wrong. It now appears Yvette was killed during a robbery. There’s a new suspect. I’m perfectly happy to offer you a ride, but if you want to get home on your own power, I won’t stop you.”

“Thanks. I’d like to walk.”

“Of course. Does he need anything?”

“I don’t think so. Under the circumstances, he’s doing well. Will he be here tomorrow?”

“He’ll be in court tomorrow. After that, I imagine he’ll be going home.”

“Herb says you’ll be in court, too.”

“That’s right. I’m already attorney of record. I was there this afternoon.”

“Did you send for the transcripts?”

“How did you know?”

“He said you did.”

“Herbie knows me well.”

“Herbie?”

“That’s what we used to call him. Before he got serious.”

“Did you read the transcript?”

“Yes.”

“And?”

“He made his point. The evidence indicates a police frame-up.”

“Will the jury believe that?”

Stone shrugged. “That’s another matter. Don’t worry. We won’t let you down.”

Melanie nodded. “Okay. Thanks again.”