Trashcan and Ed drove back to Vice. By the time they arrived back at the Squad Room the party was in full swing. The room reeked with booze and stale smoke. Trashcan waltzed right in, but Ed didn’t. He had a report to write. Ed needed somewhere quiet to scribble. Last thing he wanted was a bunch of half-drunk would be muses, ruining his concentration. He walked past the office.

He went instead to the Records Room. He opened the door and slipped inside, then closed the door. The office was dark, but that was fine. Ed knew the room’s layout without the need for light. He made for the nearness desk and sat down. Ed blindly reached out to switch on a lamp. With that done. He set about writing his report.

“Don’t know, don’t care,” replied Trashcan. He took a gulp from his paper cup, and when added, ”What can’t get a date, he called out.

“Drop dead, Jack. Dudley’s cruising. Tell your boy to lay low. Smith wants ass, and Exley’s it, said the man.

“Thanks, Jake, for the advice. I’ll tell him, replied Trash.

The party had suddenly lost its appeal. He had to find Exley. Dudley on the warpath. Crap. More he thought about it, the less he liked. Then realised where Exley maybe. The Records Room was Exley’s favourite hiding place. There’s never anyone there at this time of night. Perfect time for Dudley to pounce. Crap, thought Jack again.