Read Pluto Walks the Earth, Chapter 12: Murder Killed the Radio Star
Carmen
When I introduce myself to Pluto McDowell, in the fourth-floor Governor’s Suite reception area, he carefully repeats my name.
“Car…men Thomp…kins,” he says. “Like the cartoon. Carmen Sandiego.”
“I guess. Isn’t she a thief?”
“No offense! Maybe like Carmen Santafe! Right?”
“Well, maybe! Mr. McDowell, I’m Gov. Martinez’s chief of staff. The Governor is running slightly late. Let’s wait for her in my office.”
He’s a nice-looking young man, perhaps even more striking in person than on TV. He’s also got a fashion sense that jumps right out at you. He’s wearing a bathrobe. Not the oddest thing I’ve seen in this building, but definitely in the ballpark. I lead him into my office, where we can get acquainted until his friend, Mr. Baerga, and the Governor are present and accounted for.