Chapter 257

"I may need to pop in to see whether you need any late-night refreshments," Madeline said playfully. "And for dinner?"

"It's easy to trust Chef," I said. "Do what you will. I'm sure I'll be surprised and pleased." I passed her a few folded hundred-dollar bills and added, "The real tip might be leveraging new information that you come by tonight, perhaps."

"Whatever you require of me, Mr. Cameron," Madeline said and took her leave.

When the door closed, Nicole scrambled over from behind the bar.

"Shit!" she said. "That ice queen hates me!"

"Relax," I said. "I talked to her in the kitchen. She didn't see or hear anything. Don't worry."

"She probably has it out for me," Nicole whined.

"I said not to worry," I said firmly. "So relax. Go have another line or something."

"I'm so