Stern’s cell phone buzzed discreetly. “Mr. Stern?” Billy’s voice was muffled. “I got a problem.”
Stern gave a silent sigh. Billy had been Harding’s uninspired pick for their team. As usual, Stern was the one having to fix the mess the choice caused. “It’s not your job to have problems, just to collect information.”
“Can’t do nothing if you don’t bail me.” Billy sounded sulky and a bit threatening.
A tiny crease appeared between Stern’s eyes. He didn’t like being threatened. By anyone. “Bail you?”
“I got stopped by a local yokel. Claimed I had a taillight out, but I know the bastard kicked it hisself.”
“Why would a broken taillight require bail?”
“It don’t.” Feet shuffling were audible despite background noise. “Bail’s for punching the hick cop.”
“I’m glad you kept your head.” Sarcas
