Cameron was worried he was becoming obsessed. All he could think about was Edwards. He went into work, growled “morning” to Judy, and closed the door to his office. Nerf ball back in hand, he wondered, “What am I doing?”
He buzzed Judy, “Can you come in for a minute?”
“Sure,” she responded. “Can I bring you anything?”
“How about a cup of good coffee?”
“Has something changed around here in the last twenty years that I don’t know about, or do you want me to call someone and have it delivered?” was her answer.
“O.K.,” Cameron laughed. “I deserve that. I just need to talk to you.”
Judy came into his office and sat down across from him.
“What’s up, boss? I can tell something is bothering you.”
“It’s this Edward’s thing, Judy. There’s something about it I don’t know.”
“John, I’ve been with you forever, through the worst. Bar-Jonah—the Arrotta murders—all the other cold cases. I’ve never seen you take one so personal before. What’s the deal?”
“This case is different. I’ve never experienced this before. It’s sort of like the focal point of my entire career. Maybe of my life! I’ve been waking up, dripping wet, and shaking from visions.”
“John, I’m so sorry. I hate it that you’re not happy. You certainly deserve to be. Is there anything I can do for you?”
“Just having you here helps. I’d have never made it this long without you. But talking to you makes it easier. I just realized I’m not being fair to you, and I’m not giving my job what’s needed. I’m going to retire. Or take a leave of absence until everything works out. God knows how long that will take.”
“I respect your decision and I certainly understand. I know you haven’t been yourself lately. I’ll always be here for you. Anything I can do to help, you just let me know.”
“Thanks, Judy. You’re wonderful.” Cameron decided he needed that cup of coffee. He headed to Morning Light and ordered his usual.
“Hey John, what’s happening?” asked Mike.
“I’m going to quit my job and go full time on Edwards. And I’m going to need the support of this coffee shop to do it.”
“We got you covered, John.” Mike promised.