"That might be a challenge, but I'll think of something. Besides, the method won't change the outcome…if we can find Georgia and it's a match. The worst that can happen is if the judge orders another test."
"Where is Mathew now?"
"Still in Florida, as near as I can tell."
"Good, I'm a little worried about the nanny," said Jackie.
"I can put a guard on her without her knowing."
"That would be comforting. Did you set up a way to see that she is provided for?"
"I'm working on that. I should have something arranged with the bank shortly. I have to be careful not to give her too much, or the state will make her move out. I'm thinking a small monthly check might be the answer. How old do you think she is?"
"Possibly mid-seventies."
"Well, I'll keep track of her and find her a safe place if she needs one."
"Thank you. She is a sweet little old lady and I would hate to see something happen to her."
"Do you know the name of the dead girl?"
"Yes. Carl called the authorities and gave them all the information so they can notify her parents."
"Good enough. Call as soon as you find something…anything at all. We're running out of time."
"I know, I'll talk to you soon."
For Austin, it was the best possible way to start the day. The dead girl was not Georgia, and his hope of finding her was brighter than ever before. Not only that, he had a hot date with a beautiful young woman the next night, and he could hardly wait. With any luck, the charity ball would be the beginning of a world in which his dreams really could come true.
*
In the cubical next to Maggie's, Jim stood up, looked around and then stuck his head over the wall. "Empty box alert," he whispered. Just as quickly, he sat back down.
Maggie shuddered and covered the top of her head with her hands. Everyone knew what that meant. When she was about to fire someone, Nicole always had an empty box beside her desk. Afraid the unlucky employee would steal something, Nicole provided a box for personal belongings, and then stood by watching as the desk was cleaned out. It was humiliating for the soon to be ex-employee, and added insult to injury.
*
"Someday, someone's going to knock Nicole's block off," said Jim, once they were outside on break. They didn't bother to go around to the picnic table. With no one else outside, there was no need.
"Assault? No thank you. That's just what I don't need right now, no matter how sorely I am tempted," said Maggie.