Marina and Cecilia were still languishing in the afterglow of their lovemaking when their phones began to ring. First it was Cecilias cell phone. Dont answer it, Marina said as she pulled Cecilia closer to her. Soon after that phone stopped ringing, Marinas cell phone began its familiar tunes.

I take it youre not gonna get that? Cecilia said running her hand along Marinas arm.

Uh uh, Marina responded nuzzling Cecilias neck. Finally it was their home phone that began to ring. Damnit! Marina said wishing whoever it was would just leave them in peace. The answering machine soon picked up and they could hear Alices frantic voice.

OK guys I really hope youre home because Ill be there in ten minutes. I have something that CiCi really needs to see. Before either of them could reach for the handset, they heard the machine beep as the call ended.

***** I guess we better get dressed, Cecilia said leaning in to kiss Marina softly. Marina groaned in disappointment, but rolled off of Cecilia and went in search of clothing. They were both up and dressed by the time their doorbell rang. Marina answered the door and tried not to look too annoyed at her friend.

Alice! We heard your message, but couldnt get to the phone on time, she said smiling.

Right, Alice said drawing the word out and taking in Marinas still slightly disheveled appearance as she tapped rolled up papers against her leg. I can tell you were in a BIG hurry to answer your phones! Alices normally frivolous banter was made less effective by the worried expression on her face. She brushed past Marina and walked into the living room as the dark haired woman followed her.

Hey Alice whats up? Cecilia asked as she joined them. Alice held out the papers that she had carried in with her.

This is a copy of a fax the Times received a couple of days ago. The editor finally got to it this morning and asked me to check it out. Alice had been working as a freelance investigator for the local papers for quite a while and her services were requested frequently. She usually only received assignments that had to do with the ***** and ***** community.