Chapter 62: Djinni And The Geek

Sure enough, Dave's phone call to Florida was greeted by a recording. He waited for the beep, then spoke into the machine. "Hi, Ms. Lazlo, this is David Garavaglia. I'd like to talk to you about a vase I bought Thanksgiving weekend. Please call me back as soon as possible at the following number."

It was barely five minutes later when his cell phone rang. "This is Miriam Lazlo. How can I help you, Mr. Garavaglia?"

"I have some questions about a wooden puzzle box," he told her. "You wouldn't let me pay for it..."

"Did you solve the puzzle?" Her voice was taut, almost shaking as she interrupted him.

"Yes."

"I see." He heard a swallow. "And did you find the contents - satisfactory?"

"What the hell kind of question is that?" He shook his head in frustration. "Look, lady I need you to tell me what you know about the box."

This time the voice was barely a whisper. "Is she there?"

"What?"