Permed To Death [Bad Hair Day Mystery 1] by Nancy J. Cohen Page A

disagreement?"
    He grinned. “She didn't like how I earn a living."
    "And how is that?"
    A lecherous look came over his face as he regarded her. “You should know, babe."
    His pointed glance made her feel sordid. “Where were you the night before your mother drank the poisoned coffee?"
    "I was right here at Scudders until I went home with a hot babe named Teena. Ask the bartender: Rocko will vouch for me.” He leaned forward, his breath fanning her face. “I suppose I could ask you the same thing."
    She bristled at his tone. “I didn't kill her."
    "No? How come that detective was so interested in your relationship to my mother?"
    Her face paled. “Detective Vail spoke to you about me?"
    He nodded, smirking. “I didn't tell him what I know."
    "And what is that?” she demanded, not sure she wanted to hear his answer.
    He reached across the table and squeezed her hand. “Come back to my place, and I'll let you in on a little secret.” Rubbing her skin, he added, “We can get to know each other better."
    God, no . Whatever he had to say wasn't worth that price. “You have something to tell me, go ahead. I'm not going anywhere with you."
    Laughing, he poked her arm. “You'll come. I'll just wait until you knock on my door, babe. Until then, good luck fending off the cops."
    Saluting, he rose and lurched away.
    It took Marla a few minutes of stunned silence to realize he'd stuck her with the bill.
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Chapter 7
    The Strip was crowded with walkers when Marla left Scudders. Ten o'clock was relatively early by beach standards, but many of the throng were out for an after-dinner stroll. Party animals would cruise into the area later, drinking until their bleary vision forced them home. Marla, needing time to think, crossed the street to parade along the sidewalk beside the undulating wall leading to the sand and ocean. Her ears picked up the foaming sizzle of the waves as they crashed onto shore and ebbed back to sea. A grim smile curved her lips as she compared her jumbled thoughts to the tumultuous water. Todd had given her much to think about, but for a moment she allowed her senses to absorb the salty night air and caressing breeze. Like most residents, she didn't come here often enough. Being near the sea relaxed her, but usually she was caught up in a busy routine that precluded leisure time. Life is too short not to stop and look around , she reminded herself. Against her will, an image of Tammy invaded her mind. The little girl would never know such beauty, and it was all her fault She had to live for both of them in order to honor Tammy's memory.
    Abruptly she halted and executed an about-face. Those were matters she didn't care to dwell on right now. Lifting her chin, she caught a startling glimpse of Detective Vail a few paces ahead.
    She crossed the distance in several short steps. “Were you following me?” she demanded, thrusting her face in front of his. Her fists clenched as rage boiled to the surface. Despite what he believed, she would not be treated like a common criminal.
    His insolent gaze met hers. “Why would I want to tail you, Ms. Shore? Is there something you have to hide?"
    Planting her hands on her hips, she scowled at him. “You think I murdered Bertha Kravitz, but since you don't have proof, back off or I'll scream harassment"
    His lip curled in amusement “I'm just out for an evening stroll, like you are. Or did I just see you leave Scudders across the street?"
    She wondered if he'd seen Todd Kravitz or made any connection between the two of them. “I don't have to answer your questions,” she retorted. “If you'll excuse me, I'm returning to my car before the meter runs out” She had plenty of time left, which he'd already know if he'd followed her there.
    "Wait,” he said, holding up a hand. “How about that cup of coffee you promised me? Pirate's Cove is just rolling into action."
    Hesitating, Marla considered her options. Going home was the most