Chapter 25

The nondescript fabricated metal building gave no hint about the interior of the Brick District’s driver’s center. In contrast to the exterior, it offered an upscale, modern feel.

A cluster of cubicles filled the center, while an array of offices lined the outer wall. Beyond the reception area was a wide open space. A display of exotic, expensive, and impressive cars filled the cavernous room. There was a little of everything—from sports cars to SUVs to limousines.

A woman wearing a crisp navy jacket and seated behind the desk greeted them. “Hello.”

“Hello.” Tori approached the counter. “Darrel at the clubhouse suggested we stop by. We’re hoping to speak with the manager on duty.”

“Are you needing information on renting a car?”

“No. We’re hoping to inquire about a past or possibly current employee.”

The woman cleared her throat, a look of concern on her face. “Was there a problem with one of our drivers?”

“Not a problem,” Tori said. “We would, however, like to take it up with the person in charge.”

“I’ll need your name and address to log you into the system.”

Tori gave her the information.

The woman’s fingers flew over the computer keys. “You’re not a Brick District resident.”

“I am not. I live on Tybee Island,” she said. “However, I am a lifetime club member.”

The printer behind the receptionist made a whirring sound and spit out a single sheet of paper. “I’ve logged your request. Please wait here. I’ll be right back.”

Carlita watched her hurry off. “I think she was checking your credentials,” she teased. “We might not get any info.”

“We will. Once the manager finds out who I am,” Tori assured her.

The woman returned, walking at a brisk pace. A man, stocky and wearing thick black glasses, followed close behind.

“Mrs. Montgomery?”

“I’m Victoria Montgomery,” Tori said.

“It’s my pleasure to meet you. I’m Jim Foster, the center’s manager.” The man grasped her hand, shaking it so hard her head wobbled. “I knew your husband, William. He was an incredible businessman and entrepreneur.”

“He was,” Tori agreed.

“What can I help you with today?”

“My friend is trying to track down a current or former employee. His name is Cray.”

“Cray?” The manager shook his head. “We don’t have anyone here by that name.”

“Perhaps a previous employee,” Carlita suggested. “We were told you keep records of all past and present employees.”

“We do. Unfortunately, I’m not able to share personal information.”

“Surely, you can take a quick look,” Tori said.

“I’m sorry, Mrs. Montgomery,” Foster apologized. “It’s against company policy.”

Carlita opened her purse. “Will a little persuasion in the way of cash sway you to bend the rules this once?”

“Don’t bother. I’m not willing to risk my job for a favor or cash.” Foster’s expression grew grim. “If there’s nothing else you need, perhaps you should leave.”

“Very well.” Tori clasped her hands. “An employee with integrity is hard to come by these days. I commend you for sticking to your guns.”

The women turned to go.

Foster stopped them. “Good luck on your search. I hate for you to leave empty-handed. For the record, the Brick District’s files are kept online.”

“I see.” Tori thanked him. With head held high, she strolled out of the office. She didn’t slow until she and Carlita were back inside her limo.

Lucien waited for them to buckle up. “Someone named Puckett left a message with Montgomery Hall’s housekeeper. He’s been trying to reach you.”

“Mayor Puckett?” Tori opened her purse and reached for her phone. “It appears I missed his call.”

“He mentioned having an important update.”

“It must be about Cool Bones.” Tori promptly dialed the mayor’s office. After the second transfer, she was finally connected.

Carlita quietly listened to the pleasantries, waiting for her friend to get to the point. “I’m hoping you have good news about the release of an old acquaintance, Charles Benson, a local musician.”

Tori nodded her head. “Wonderful. Thank you, Clarence. I knew I could count on you.” She ended the call and triumphantly waved her phone in the air. “Cool Bones will be free by the end of today.”

“Did the mayor say how much his bond will be?” Carlita asked.

“Clarence pulled some strings. The judge ordered a minimal bond amount.”

“This is the best news I’ve had since Cool Bones’ arrest.” Carlita whooped loudly. “I was thinking about what the manager said. He made a point of mentioning the drivers’ records were online. It has me wondering.”

“Wondering how you can crack into their system?”

“Yep,” Carlita said. “And I know the perfect person to ask.”