“Keep an eye on Helen.”
He showed surprise. “What about her? You don’t think she’s two-timing—”
“I mean keep an eye on her, protect her. I’m going to be gone tonight, but from now on don’t ever let her out of your sight.”
“Why? What’s the matter?”
I said, “She’s in danger.”
“Of what?”
“Murder.”
His filmed eyes became suddenly animated. “Buddy,” he said, “you can count on me.”
We shook hands.
Helen emerged from her bedroom, buttoning the sleeves of her blouse. She turned her neck to me, said, “Button me up the back, will you?”