said Nancy. “I got it from Kimberly Walnut, then confirmed it with Vera Kendrick, the children’s minister from New Fellowship Baptist.” “Let’s hear it,” said Pete. “Hey,” I said. “This is police business.” “Sorry,” said Pete. “So let’s hear it,” I said.The Slab Café seemed to stay busy from June straight through to Labor Day. Pete had an “owner’s table” by the kitchen, so it was no problem getting a seat, but getting served was another matter entirely. Noylene was busier than a one-armed paper hanger, and Pauli Girl was hustling as well. Cynthia, our mayor, wasn’t on the waitress schedule this morning. “Be with you in a bit,” said Noylene as she raced by. “Help yourself to some coffee.”Dave got up and retrieved the coffee pot from the burner. We all held up our empty cups in salute. Dave filled them and then dutifully filled all the cups that the rest of the patrons held aloft as soon as they spied him with a coffee pot. “Now,” I said, once the coffee was poured and Dave had rejoined our table.
