‘All right, Myra,’ I said, and went to the door, opened it and jerked my thumb. Wait for me in the car. I have a little business deal to settle with Lola. I’ll join you in a couple of minutes.’
‘How about Betillo?’ Myra said. ‘He’ll be up here any minute now.’
‘Never mind Betillo. Wait for me in the car.’
She went out, her back very straight, her face white. I closed the door.
‘That was a bit of bad luck,’ I said, took out a pack of cigarettes and offered it to her.
She looked at me, grimaced, and took the cigarette.
‘Think twice the next time you make up your so-called mind to bring a woman into a hole like this,’ she said savagely. ‘What kind of spot do you think you’ve put me in?’
‘Yeah; I’m sorry, but I wasn’t to know. As it turns out, it may be a lucky break. Don’t be coy with me, Lola; was Perelli with you?’
‘Of course he was. He played cards with Betillo and then came over to me. I was always seeing him. He’s one of my regulars.’
‘Remember what time he left you?’