The chief was talking to his investigators when Piper and Joel walked up to the front door of the Strauss"s home. The officer at the door started to turn them away, but Joel flashed his badge, and the officer turned to get the attention of the chief. When the chief turned and saw it was Joel, he gave a curt nod of acceptance before he spoke.
"Are you taking an active interest in this murder?" he asked Joel.
"Yes, it seems to be what everybody wants."
"As I told you earlier, I"d appreciate the help." The chief turned and pointed his finger at Piper. "And you, Mrs. Avery, will stay under the watchful eye of Joel. I don"t want you to impede the investigation, but I will appreciate anything you find."
The man stared at Piper intently until she gave a nod of agreement. Then the chief turne
