Mathieu was waiting for him at the transom of Reel Hope, his thirty-six foot sport fisher. Pancho, the Australian Cattle Dog that served as ship mascot, was leaping around on the main deck, excitement resounding in his bark.
“Welcome back, my friend.” Mathieu’s easy smile beamed down.
Andrew grabbed the rail and leapt over the gunwale to the deck. Pancho was on him in a shot, forepaws on his hips and tongue lolling in greeting.
Andrew squatted down to address the dog. He scratched behind his ears. “There’s a good boy. I’m happy to see you, too.”
Pancho nuzzled his face and Andrew accepted the kisses despite the fishy dog breath. …show more content…
“I got your text. What’s up?”
Mathieu clapped him on the shoulder. “An old friend has asked me to enlist your help in an investigation.”
“Investigation?” Andrew’s left eyebrow shot up. “What kind of investigation? It doesn’t sound like you’re talking science here.”
“No, my friend. Áhari is a municipal police officer seeking more information in a young girl’s death last night.”
Stunned, Andrew stammered to find words.
Mathieu’s perpetual smile faded as the gravity of the request crept into his eyes. “There is suspicion that a shark is responsible.”
“A shark?” Andrew couldn’t keep incredulity from his voice. “Here?”
“This is what he says.”
“Ok. When does he want to meet?”
“They are in the salon now.”
Andrew looked to the cabin, then back at Mathieu. “They?”
“Yes. He has a partner with him. I believe she is from the