“Remember Mack Taubman?” “Your friend who almost had a heart attack when you

told him about what we were investigating?” “Yes.” “What about him?” “He’s

dead.”

 

Chapter 49

 

PULLER ROSE AND stared at Knox.

 

Knox kept her gaze on the floor.

 

Puller said, “How?” “They’re not sure. It could be suicide.” “Gun?” She shook

her head. “They don’t know what exactly. But from the little I heard there was

no outward wound or signs of foul play. Mack might have taken poison.” “Or

someone might have fed it to him,” countered Puller. “I don’t know,” said Knox

distractedly. “Was he found at home?” “Yes.” “Did he live alone?” “Mack’s wife

had died. His kids were grown.” “If they suspect suicide, was there a note?” “I

don’t know, Puller.” “Did he ever strike you as suicidal?” “No, but I hadn’t

seen him in a while. And I told you this had rocked him. Maybe our conversation

led him to kill himself.” Knox slumped down and sat on the floor. “If it did,

Knox, you had no way of knowing. It was on him, not you.” “Easy to say.” “Yeah,

it is. But it’s also the truth.” “Mack Taubman was a tough guy, Puller. He’d

seen it all. I can’t believe he would kill himself over this.” “Did he contact

anyone before he died?” “I wish I knew. But that’s out of my hands.” “No way to

find out?” he asked. “I’ve made calls, but the gates have already shut.” Puller

stared down at the floor for a few moments. “Okay, Knox, I’m going to tell you