EVANOW—stood at Carter’s car window against a backdrop of yellow barricade tape that blocked all access to the beach road. “You have to turn around, sir. There’s a hostage situation in progress.” Carter showed his badge and credentials. “I am a district attorney, and I have information that the incident commander needs to know.” Trooper Evanow was unimpressed. “I’m sure that badge means something in New York, but right here, it means that you still have to move along.” Carter felt his face flush as his mind raced. How could— His cell phone rang, and Carter snatched it from the seat where he’d left it. “Janssen,” he said. A familiar voice said, “Carter, this is Warren Michaels. You were right, June Parker does have a cell phone. I have the number right here.” * * * Brad gave in to the need to sit. His belly was getting hotter all the time. “How are you feeling?” Nicki asked him. “Like somebody’s barbecuing chicken in my gut.” Between the thick clouds, the setting sun, and the pulled drapes, it could have been midnight inside the Parker home.
