His eyebrows moved up a notch. "No, he said something about police work, but I just figured you'd helped him consult in another case or two." He seemed to relax halfway, but there was still a hint of doubt in his voice. "But if you're really a veteran, how come I never met you? I've been here twenty-three years myself."

"I was in New Mexico."

"You're Mexican? I wouldn't have known it from your accent–or I should say lack of accent."

She knew he was trying to be complimentary, but ignorant Easterners always pissed her off. She tried not to show it. It wouldn't help her win him over, but she could hear annoyance leaking into her voice. "Not Mexico, Brown. New Mexico. Part of the USA?"