personnel record." Loneshark nodded at Mallowmar but said nothing. The commissioner looked at Midas and timidly asked, "Is that all then, Uncle King?"
"Yes, Wilby, you may go."
As the commissioner closed the door behind him, Mick and Jim exchanged astonished looks. Loneshark turned to face Midas and parroted, "Uncle King?"
"Mick," Jim spewed in a warning hiss.
"Yes, Mr. Loneshark, Wilby is my sister's only son." Loneshark snorted, barely containing an outright laugh.
"Mick," Jim hissed more forcefully.
"Yes, Mr. Loneshark," Midas repeated and then continued dryly, "I'm well aware. I suppose the old adage about every family having one is true . . . even the best of families."
Mick and Jim made no response to that statement. King proceeded in a more businesslike tone, "I've read your report concerning the incident on that mountain top, Detective. I found the facts to be a bit sparse. I'm waiting for an explanation."
Loneshark growled, "I edited out the – "
"Mick!" Jim shrieked in horror.
Midas looked at Middleman with surprised impatience. Mick took advantage of the distraction to tip Jim a wink. "I edited out the nonessential facts, sir," Loneshark uttered to King respectfully.
King cast another perplexed look at the relieved captain before fully focusing his myopic stare on Mick. "All right, Mr. Loneshark, I'll say it plainly. I want to hear from your own lips that Clint Indigence is dead!"
Mick's lasers fired a direct beam into King's eyes as he stated, "I gave credit for the shoot to Tyro Newbee because that kid deserved a break. The fact is that I'm the one who pulled the trigger. Does that satisfy you, Mr. Midas?"
King held Loneshark's steady stare for a prolonged moment before giving the detective a curt nod. Midas then shifted his gaze to Jim and offered, "Captain Middleman, this man has proven to be everything you promised and more. I wish to compliment you on your selection and give you my gratitude."
"You're most welcome, sir."
"Now, Captain, if you don't mind, I'd like a private word with Mr. Loneshark."
"Certainly, sir," Middleman acquiesced, giving Mick a smile before departing.
"I see that I can depend upon your discretion, Detective. Your captain was unaware of your previous visit here."
"You read people very well, Mr. Midas."
