Pam arrived at work before six. She had hoped Joe would be there. She had not heard from him since the prior afternoon. He had said he would be back later that night. Perhaps he was too tired. After all he had been through, that was to be expected. She hoped there had been no problems with the police. Still, she felt angry, her ego damaged. She had felt important around him, a belonging. He was intelligent. He drank, but at least he wasn’t consumed by drugs. The bottom line: she was disappointed. She liked Joe and it was possible he was gone, not to return. Her hopes and dreams dashed again. Perhaps he would show up later. She hoped he would.
* * *
The Continental pulled into the parking lot of the Hilton. Joe had thought the party was to be at Judy’s house. The foursome walked through the lobby, past the bar, and into an already busy banquet room. They worked their way through greetings and introductions until they were able to find an empty table. Joe sat beside Marjorie, feeling strangely important and somewhat vulnerable. A room full of legal personalities and himself, quite illegal. The entire room could be guilty of harboring a criminal, strangely humorous for someone in his unique position.
“What’s so funny?” Marjorie chuckled at Joe.
Joe hadn’t realized his inner emotions had peered into vision. He silently reprimanded himself. “I thought the holidays were going to be boring.”
“No such luck, huh?” answered Marjorie.
“It could have been a lot worse.”
“Of course, you could have been shot, God forbid.” She touched his forearm.
Hopkins interrupted. “Marjorie, look who’s here.” He nodded toward the bar. “Davis Wilson, Channel 5’s big guy.”
Linda was not concerned, but both Hopkins and Marjorie were a bit tense.
“What’s the deal?” Joe asked.
“If anybody knows you were involved, it’s him. And if he knows you’re here, especially with us, he’ll have a field day.”
“Should I not be here?”
“What do you think, Rick?”
“He’s not wanted for anything. Besides, Judy invited him, remember?”
They all snickered, even Linda.
“Let’s stay a sufficient amount of time, then duck out. What do you think?” Marjorie suggested.
Rick agreed.
“Hey, I’m with you guys,” Joe said.
Linda shrugged. “As long as we do something, I don’t care where we go.”
“We’ll do something,” Hopkins reassured. He knew where he wanted to go, if Marjorie didn’t object. He wondered if she would. First, a few drinks. “So why aren’t you wearing my gifts?”
Marjorie looked at Linda.
“They were all picked over, hon. Couldn’t find anything near as nice as what you had gotten us.” She turned on the charm.
Rick smiled. “They were nice, weren’t they?”
“Absolutely, babe. Weren’t they, Marj?”
“Very nice, Rick. If only we hadn’t put on so much weight. I’m embarrassed.”
“Me too!”
“I can’t tell you’ve put on any weight at all. You both look the same to me.”
“You’re just being nice. None of my clothes fit anymore. Do yours, Linda?”
“No, nothing.”
A waiter brought drinks, white wine for the ladies, and screwdrivers for the men.
“Well, what did you do?”
“About what, hon?”
“The clothes.”
“Well, we got our money back. Guess we’ll look elsewhere.”
“Probably a better time to buy after Christmas?” He looked for agreement.
“Much better. Isn’t it, Marjorie?”
“Absolutely. In fact, I think I’ll do a little extra shopping just to save some money.”
“I don’t blame you a bit. It’s the smart thing to do.”
Rick was studying the situation.
“Why don’t you do the same thing, Linda? We could take the boys to the movies next week and shop for a few hours,” Marjorie said.
“I guess I better not. I can get by for a few months.”
“But the prices will be so much higher. You won’t be able to get near as much.”
Hopkins had a great idea. “Babe, why don’t you go with her? You do need the clothes and, like you said, it’ll save money in the long run.”
“Well, I don’t know…”
“Go ahead.”
“I really shouldn’t.”
“Don’t be so tight. Besides, the boys are badgering me about some movie.”
“Well, if you insist.” She smiled.
Marjorie turned her head to keep from laughing out loud.
“I insist. The subject is closed.” He looked at Joe. “Order us some drinks. I’ve got to shake hands with the governor.”
Joe looked at the smiling women. “You two are awful.”
“Awful? Why, whatever do you mean, Mr. Cooper?” Linda said in her best southern drawl.
“How long did it take you two to come up with that plan?”
Marjorie laughed. “Rick isn’t as gullible as he seems. He’s a sly, old detective. He’s got something on his mind.”
“Yeah, and we’ll find out pretty soon. I already have a good idea.”
“Hunting at Ginger’s?” Marjorie frowned.
“You know it.”
“Who’s Ginger?”
Linda looked at Marjorie. Both grew solemn.
“He’s Rick’s best friend,” Linda quickly spoke.
“Not very popular with you two, though?”
“It’s not that. We love Ginger. It’s just…”
“What Linda is trying not to say is that I used to date Ginger. But that was in the past. We’re all friends now.”
“Sorry I asked.”
“It’s no big deal, really.” Marjorie looked away and saw Judy coming toward their table.
Linda turned to look. “No thanks to her.”
“The plot thickens,” Cooper said.
“Marj, Linda, don’t you two look nice. Leave the sergeant at home?”
“No, he’s here,” Linda said with a veil of a smile.
“Who’s your good-looking friend, Marj?”
“Joe, this is Judy Evans.”
“Glad to meet you, Miss Evans.” He stood and extended his hand.
“Quite the gentleman, Marj. Much different from our old friend.”
Marjorie turned her head. Linda could see her face redden.
“You were here at the bar!” Linda remembered.
“Yes, that’s where I met these guys. And you were courteous enough to invite me to your party.”
“I did?”
“You don’t remember? Maybe I was mistaken. Should I leave?”
“Oh, no, of course not. The more, the merrier. Enjoy yourself. I’ll see you guys a little later. I must mingle.” She excused herself.
“Well, Marj, the boy’s got talent,” Linda said.
Hopkins returned.
“Just missed Madame Judy.”
“Damn the bad luck.” He snapped his fingers.
“What did she have to say?”
“Typical Judy, but our boy here kept her on her toes.”
“Good job, Joe. What did you do?”
“He thanked Judy for inviting him.”
“Well done. Now if we can avoid Wilson for an hour, we’ll slide out of here.”
“Maybe we’re taking the wrong approach here,” suggested Cooper.
“What do you mean?” asked Hopkins.
“Instead of avoiding the press, introduce me to them. They’re going to find out, and it would be better up front from you guys rather than appearing like you’re trying to keep something secret.”
“He may have a point there,” Marjorie said, raising her eyebrows.
“Possibly. You know, it might take a little of the heat off the police. My boss would like that.”
“Let’s go for it.”
“Okay, first we’ll tell Judy. Keep her on our side. Then call Mr. Wilson over, a few pleasantries, a few drinks, and leave separately. Joe goes first, we field a few questions, then ease out and go review our results.”
“Sounds good,” said Marjorie.
“Yeah,” chimed in Joe, who was finding the entire situation exhilarating. Tempting fate, taunting the opposition. What a high.
They looked at Linda. “Hey, I just want to go shopping.”
“Well, Marj, call Judy over here.”
“You’ve got to be kidding. She’s your department.”
“Okay, let me finish my drink.”
They were all quiet for a few minutes, looking around at the gathering of people chatting and drinking. The waiters were passing out hors d’oeuvres and preparing the buffet.
“Don’t forget, we have to eat,” reminded Linda.
“No wonder you’ve gained weight. That’s all you think about.” Hopkins shook his head.
Linda and Marjorie laughed at each other. Joe Cooper managed a grin. Rick raised his hand and motioned toward Judy. She smiled and waved, then realizing he wanted her presence, excused herself from a few of her admirers. She had a swagger about her, hips that Cooper didn’t equate with a lawyer.
“What’s going on, Rick? Enjoying yourself?”
“Yes, very much. Sit down and have a drink with us. We want to talk with you for a minute.”
“Sure.” Her curiosity was rising.
“You’ve met Joe Cooper,” he pointed.
“Of course. I invited him to the party, remember?”
“Yes, but there are a few things you’re not aware of that we feel you should know.”
“My goodness, sounds mysterious. Why didn’t you tell me, Marjorie?”
“I was waiting for Rick, and you dashed off so quickly. Besides, it’s best that Rick explain his case. Just a courtesy to you so you won’t be in the dark.”
“Well, for God’s sake, tell me.”
“All right! You’re aware of the liquor store murder the other night?”
“Of course. A bystander shot the murderer, rumor has it.”
“Well, this is the bystander.”
“My Lord.” She looked at Joe. He neither smiled nor frowned. “This is quite a surprise.”
“When you invited him the other night, we had just met him. We thought you should know. The chief is out of town and we’re not releasing an official statement until Monday, but some of the media have gotten his name. So who knows what else they know. With Davis here, we thought we would introduce him. We don’t want anything to come up later about us all being here together. At the same time, Joe wants to avoid a lot of publicity. He’s had a rough couple days.”
“I can imagine. And don’t worry. He’s my guest. I had just assumed he was your date, Marjorie, but now I find out he’s eligible. That’s good to know. I’m glad you confided in me. I’ll handle everything from here. Let me get Davis. I’ll be right back.”
“God, I hate her,” said Marj.
“She’ll handle it from here. Bitch! We just simply shouldn’t have come. She’ll make you her item. I’m afraid we sold you out, Joe. Sorry.” Hopkins looked at Joe.
“It’s not your fault. I’m the one who wanted to come.”
“But we led you down the path.”
“Hey, I’m having more fun than you know,” Joe said and meant every word of it.
Linda shook her head.
“What is it?” Marj asked.
“‘Now I find out he’s eligible,’” she mocked. “Like it would have mattered.”
“Never has before.” Marj looked away from everybody.
“‘I’ll handle everything from here,’” Linda continued to mock. “I just bet she will.”
“Here she comes with Wilson. Careful,” cautioned Hopkins.
“Wilson, you know Hopkins, and of course our esteemed assistant DA.”
“Of course.”
Marjorie steamed.
“This is Rick’s wife, Linda.” Judy gestured.
“Linda and I have met several times at muscular dystrophy functions. Good to see you, Linda.”
Linda smiled a polite hello. Davis Wilson had always been a tireless volunteer for MD. He actively had gone far beyond the annual telethon. She had heard he had a younger brother who was afflicted, but he had never made it public knowledge.
“This is Joe Cooper. He’s a guest of mine.”
“Joe Cooper?” He turned to Judy.
“Yes, he’s the same Joe Cooper,” Judy assured him. The two men shook hands.
“Well, this is quite a surprise.” Davis Wilson pulled a chair from an adjoining table. “We’ve been looking for you without success and all of a sudden you’re introduced to me.” Wilson looked around at the small group. “Is there any significance that you’re sitting with the police, the assistant DA, and a defense attorney?”
“I certainly hope not.” Joe laughed, which sparked chuckles from the rest.
“He’s fine with us,” assured Hopkins. “In fact, he saved everyone a lot of time and money.”
Judy cut him short. “Davis, we wanted to give you first crack at an exclusive. But we would like to avoid a landslide of reporters wreaking havoc on our friend.”
“And another thing—” again, Rick was cut short.
“What Rick is worried about is, could you keep this hush-hush until they make an official statement Monday?”
Rick was annoyed but went along. Marjorie and Linda’s dislike for Judy increased.
“Sure, as long as I get an exclusive.”
“Is that okay with you, Joe?”
He wondered if he had a say-so in the matter. “That’s fine with me. As long as it’s not tonight.”
“That’s fine, but I would like to do it tomorrow, so we can air it as soon as the police department makes its statement. Any problems, Rick?”
“No, I suppose not. I’ll give you a briefing of my report.”
“What about an interview with you?”
“Not until Monday. The chief would fry my ass. Might anyway if he knew what I was doing.”
“Rick, you haven’t done anything. If Joe chose to attend Judy’s party, that’s his privilege. However, if I had discovered this news without your explanation, I might have been curious.”
“Why is that?” asked Marj.
“Why suddenly are you socializing?”
“Would that matter?”
“Perhaps you were hiding something.”
“Like what?” Rick asked.
“That’s what I would be interested in finding out.”
“I see your drift.”
“Reporters! They’re all so suspicious.” Judy rolled her eyes and laughed.
Rick motioned to the waiter for another round of drinks. “Let’s drink to Joe being a hero and to Davis getting an exclusive.”
“And what about me?”
Davis squeezed Judy’s hand. “And to our lovely hostess and mediator.”
“Thank you so much. Do I get an interview?”
“One at a time, my dear.”
“You children talk, I’ve got to check my food.” She placed her hands on Joe’s shoulders and whispered loudly, “I’ll be back to check on you. Don’t listen to all their shoptalk. They’ll get you into trouble and then you’ll need me.” She didn’t wait for an answer.
Joe looked at Marjorie next to him. She raised her eyebrows, then turned her attention to Davis Wilson.
“So, what kind of work do you do, Joe?” asked Davis.
“I’m a roofer.”
“Well, I know you’re busy. Hell of a storm. Need a roof myself. You interested?”
“I’ll take a look for you.”
“I would appreciate it.” He reached for a business card and wrote down his home number. “Now, if l can have yours.”
“I’m in the process of moving, so I’m staying at a friend’s. Why don’t I call you?”
“Sure, sometime in the morning?”
“No problem.”
“Do you mind if I show up, Davis?” Rick asked. “I’ll bring my report and go over some names with you.”
“I would really appreciate that, Rick.” Davis excused himself and wandered off.
“Can we eat now?” Linda asked.
“God, babe, you’ve really got to watch your appetite.” He looked concerned. The girls shook their heads at each other.
The buffet was a typical West Texas assortment of sliced ham, potato salad, red beans, and peach cobbler.
Rick looked sternly at his wife after her second trip for cobbler. “Geez, Linda. You’ll have to shop at the fat girl store.”
“Fat girl store? What the hell is the fat girl store?”
“You know, the big girl shop, big women, big butts, whatever.”
“You’re a big boob, I know that.”
Everybody began to laugh and have a good time. Joe was amazed that he was enjoying himself with these people. They were likable.
Rick looked up from his fresh drink. “I think I’ll go hunting when you two go shopping.”
Linda looked up in much the same manner as her husband had. “That’s a good idea. Take a run out to Ginger’s and make a day of it.”
“I guess I could. You want to go, Joe?”
“I’m not much of a hunter, but I would like to go. When?”
“Next weekend, hon?” Rick asked Linda.
Linda looked at Marjorie. “Sure.”
“I’ll check with Ginger,” Rick said.
“Why don’t we go by Ginger’s and play some shuffleboard?” suggested Marjorie.
“Are you sure?”
“I’m sure. We’re all adults. Besides, I can act a bitch.”
“Marjorie.”
“Relax, Rick. I’m only joking.”
“Great. Joe and I will play you girls.”
“That’s fine with us, baby. I’ll scorch your butt.”
“Eat another bowl of cobbler and we’ll go see.”
“Meet back at the car?”
“While you finish your drinks, I’ll slip out and wait at the car,” suggested Joe.
“Here, let me give you the keys.” Marjorie reached for her purse.
Joe took the keys as if they were his own. He squeezed Marj’s hand. “Give me about thirty minutes. I need to go the men’s room and also make a couple of calls. Okay?” he asked permission.
Marjorie swooned. She wanted to go flaunt Joe in front of Ginger. She tried to dismiss the thought, but it was there just the same. This was beneath her, or at least she wished to believe so. She had had enough wine to laugh at herself. Later she would not. Nonetheless, she pulled Joe toward her and kissed him, not long but long enough to insinuate a degree of passion. She hoped Judy was watching. She knew Rick and Linda were. She looked up in time to see Judy turning her head.
Joe stood up from the kiss and looked down at Marjorie. He smiled, turned, and started out of the banquet room until he caught a glimpse of Judy. She acknowledged his leaving. Then, as if something suddenly occurred to her, she waved for his attention. She met him midway, Marjorie observed. She could not hear the conversation, but she watched. Linda and Rick took notice as well.
Judy took Joe’s hand and spoke to him, pulling him toward her. She stepped back in her best social manner, looked into Joe’s eyes and nodded as if she had a request or a proposal. Then a pause and a smile. She pulled Joe close and gave a cute hug, as if something was agreeable. A polite nod, a subtle glance at her watch, and a confirmation of an exact appointment. Marjorie’s face grew red and she ordered another drink. Rick and Linda frowned their disapproval of Judy. Without words, they showed support of their friend Marjorie. They were on her side and somehow they would help crush the antics of her enemy.
Joe accepted Judy’s hand and smiled, neither confirming nor denying, neither giving way to Judy nor betraying Marjorie. He would straddle the line as long as he could, until he was forced to choose. Then he would, on his own accord, fitting his immediate needs, make a choice. It mattered not to him; whoever advanced his immediate needs. Until then there was Pam, a place of sanctuary, a bed of rest and nourishment. Even though he had not called in two days, there was still security waiting. He had the distinct advantage of deceit.
“Now, Joe, as soon as your interview is finished, come to my house and tell me everything that happened. My number is in the book; call ahead and I’ll fix us lunch or whatever. Bring Rick if you need to.”
Joe gave a sheepish grin. “I don’t need to, but I may have to.”
Judy curled her lips. “I understand perfectly. Just do what you have to do. I’ll be waiting.”
Joe smiled politely and strolled out into the hotel hall. It was quiet, with only a slight echo from the banquet room. The bar was around the corner. Perhaps Cynita was there. He couldn’t resist the temptation. By the time his eyes adjusted to the light, Cynita was standing in front of him.
“Well, hi there, handsome. What brings you here?”
“I’m sorry. I thought this was the public library.”
“Well, it is, sir. What kind of book are you looking for?”
“A medical book, young lady, on recuperating from the night before.”
“I’m sorry, sir, but I’m using that book myself.” They laughed.
“Do you feel as bad as I do?”
“Worse.”
“I just got up a few hours ago.”
“I haven’t been to bed since I left you,” he lied. “But I’m going real soon.”
“You’re not hanging around for a while?” She looked sincerely disappointed.
“You’ve got to be kidding! I’m exhausted!”
“What happened?”
“More police reports and dodging reporters. This has been a nightmare. I’ve got to get some sleep. I have an interview with Channel 5 in the morning. I wish it were all over.”
“Hero business is a little rough, huh?”
“Hero? Hell, I’m just a survivor.”
“Well, I wish you could stay, but I can imagine how tired you must be. Let me give you my number. Call me tomorrow. It’s my day off. Maybe we could lay around and rest together.” She arched her eyebrows. “If you get my meaning.”
“What about your roommate?”
“I’ll send her to the movies.”
“Aren’t you resourceful?”
“A good librarian has to be. Bye.” She turned away.
Joe glanced at the bar clientele before leaving. Different than the previous night. No sign of the man with the grey hair and $500 less in his checking account. Joe felt for his watch in his left pants pocket. He had to get rid of it. Somehow.
Joe arrived at the white Continental in time to see his companions exit the Hilton. He started it up and cut through the parking lot to intercept. “Need a ride?”
“Follow that car,” Hopkins said.
“What car?”
“Any car, as long as it’s going to the closest tavern.”
“Point the way.”
“Go south on Central.”
Marjorie smiled at Joe driving her car. She thought about scooting next to him, but perhaps that would be too high schoolish. She felt like it was her first date. It was the first in several months, since she and Ginger had broken up. It suddenly occurred to her they were going to Ginger’s bar. This would be the first time since their breakup she had seen him. Their last meeting was emotional and a little bitter.
Joe pulled into Ginger’s, quite curious. He turned off the ignition and opened his door. He had imagined the bar to be much nicer. It wasn’t much different than the Whisky Trough, where Pam was working at that very moment. It wasn’t too far away, either. He offered the keys back to Marjorie. She dropped them into her bag and the foursome entered Ginger’s.
There were about fifteen people scattered about, some at the bar, a few playing shuffleboard, and the rest around tables talking and drinking. Ginger was bartending. Dot was taking the rest of the night off. She was spending it on the other side of the bar drinking a glass of wine and talking to Ginger.
The bar was all too familiar to Marjorie. She felt an ache in the pit of her stomach. Memories flashed forcefully in front of her every move. She wasn’t prepared for such a sensation. But it was necessary to continue on. Joe followed her lead, with Hopkins and Linda trailing.
Ginger looked up, then looked again, his face somewhat white. He’d known they would eventually bump into each other, but never did it cross his mind she would come into the bar. He looked curiously at the man behind her. Rick and Linda smiled and waved mischievously. Linda elbowed her husband and whispered for him not to egg anything on.
“Got room for a few old friends?” Marjorie smiled.
“Absolutely. Four seats right up front.” He pointed to some empty stools next to Dot. “To what occasion do we owe this unexpected pleasure?”
“Just slumming. Go get us some beer,” Hopkins blurted.
“You couldn’t have left him in the car?”
“Don’t I wish,” Linda said.
“Well, I know what you three want. How about your friend?” Ginger looked straight into the man’s dark eyes, which looked just as intently back into Ginger’s.
Rick cut in front of Marjorie, who exchanged hugs with Dot as she sat down beside her. “This is Joe Cooper. Joe, this asshole is Ginger,” said Rick.
They exchanged introduction subtitles over a handshake, each trying to measure the other. Joe knew about Ginger, but Ginger wondered who Joe was, until he remembered the name from previous conversations with Rick. They both took an immediate dislike to each other. They weren’t sure why, but they both recognized it. Joe could see why Marjorie had fallen for Ginger; medium sized with collar-length brown hair, thinning in front, which revealed an intelligent-looking forehead. He was not a person easily fooled. He had a psychological presence that prevented him from blending in with the crowd. Joe would play him much differently than Hopkins.
Ginger asked his brand of beer, hoping it different from his and his three other friends. It wasn’t.
Whatever this man was, Ginger knew he was no hero. He looked at Marjorie. He was jealous, not that she had a date, but that she might be bamboozled by this guy. He wondered what the hell any of his friends were doing with him.
“Here you go, Joe. Drink up.”
“Appreciate it.”
“So how did you stumble across this bunch of legal minds?”
“It wasn’t planned, that’s for sure,” he looked at Hopkins, sitting to his left. “Was it?”
“He’s the guy who broke up the robbery at B&W Liquor,” Hopkins informed Ginger.
“Well now, a celebrity in our midst.” He still wanted to know what the four of them were doing out drinking together.
“Hardly,” corrected Joe. “Scared silly roofer who was at the wrong place at the wrong time.”
“Lucky for us,” Marjorie patted his forearm. “Otherwise the man would still be at large.”
“Enough shop talk. Give me a beer. Why isn’t Dot working?” Rick asked.
“Taking the night off. She had a lot of housework to do. You can tell, huh?”
“Hey, it’s my night off. I can do what I want.”
“You tell him, Dot.” Linda said.
“Well, Sergeant Linda, jump right in.” Ginger quipped. “A little work won’t kill you, babe.”
“Does that mean you’re ready for a beer?”
“You talked me into it.”
Rick looked over his shoulder toward the shuffleboard. “Hey, Matt, can we have the winners?”
“Only if your wife plays. I don’t mind losing to her.”
“You’re just too sweet, Matthew,” Linda said.
“Too full of shit,” corrected her husband.
Ginger passed out a few more beers throughout the bar, flipping a CD into the player.
“Still listening to the blues, huh?” Marjorie asked, barely glancing up.
Joe didn’t like competing for Marjorie’s attention, but he would make the most of the situation.
“Someone’s got to,” answered Ginger.
“Does it have to be us?” asked Linda.
“I’m sorry, Linda. If I’d known you were coming, I would have brought my copy of Englebert.”
“Yeah, right. Like you really have one. Who is this?”
“Like you really care.” Ginger smiled and winked at Linda.
“It’s Robert Cray, isn’t it?” Joe asked.
Ginger nodded approval. “The man knows his music. Blues fan?”
“Some,” he lied. “I lean more toward jazz.”
“I’m impressed. Bring in some CDs and I’ll play them. I’m sure some of us would like a change.”
Marjorie glanced in his direction, wondering if the remark was directed toward her. Ginger gave no indication, so she dismissed the thought. She definitely wanted to steer clear of a sarcastic battle. She hadn’t the energy, nor the inclination.
“Not me. I live for the blues,” said Hopkins, which immediately brought laughter from everyone but Joe.
Marjorie explained, “Rick doesn’t know Beethoven from George Strait. And he’s tone deaf to both.”
Joe looked at Hopkins for confirmation.
“I’ve always thought music was highly overrated. Don’t you?” Rick looked for help.
“Absolutely,” Joe Cooper agreed.
“You should hear him in the shower,” said Linda. “Like Daffy Duck doing an impersonation of Goofy falling in a well.”
Everyone chuckled.
“Hurry up, Matt. I’m being outnumbered.”
“The odds aren’t any better over here.”
“Come on, Joe. I need a partner. Let the girls bend Ginger’s ear while we beat these guys, then we’ll beat them.”
“Care to put a wager on that, husband?”
“Same as always?”
“That’s right.”
Joe gave Marjorie a questioning look.
“Don’t ask! And we are not betting on the same thing.” She blushed.
Joe laughed out loud. “That’s not much of an incentive.”
“That’s all you’re getting.”
Everyone laughed. Joe felt some anger, and a little rejection until Marjorie grabbed his forearm, squeezed, and left her hand there. He laughed, but also noticed Ginger still looking at Marjorie’s hand.
He laughed a little harder and put his hand across hers. He knew Ginger was burning, and he enjoyed the knowledge. It could be valuable later.
Ginger felt his face flush. He knew Marjorie was enjoying this. At first, he wished Bev was there, to call him hon or ask about supper, or insist upon a kiss. But then he looked at Marjorie. She was entitled to her feelings. He deserved to be put down somewhat. He understood. But why this guy? He composed himself by getting Marjorie and Joe another beer and smiling as he set them down. He then picked up some empty bottles, cleared a few tables, served some more beer, and retreated to the back for a few minutes. Buckshot was in the office, asleep on the couch. He raised an eye toward Ginger but made no other movement.
“If you can pry yourself off the couch, you’ve got company up front!” Buck raised his head and looked at Ginger curiously. He then lay his head back down, as if contemplating what his owner was talking about. It didn’t sound like food, so there was no reason he should hurry. He stretched and yawned.
Ginger paid no more attention to him. He found some aspirin in the desk drawer and swallowed a few with the help of a watered-down Coke from Jo-Jo’s. He looked for some leftover fries. They were gone. He gave a quick glance at Buckshot, who was suddenly gone.
“Just as I figured.” Ginger stared toward to the front. “When did I lose control?”
Rick and Joe were busy testing their skills at shuffleboard. Linda was talking with Dot, who was behind the bar, and Marjorie was hugging and making a fuss over Buckshot. It was a familiar sight from a few months ago. But now it seemed almost out of place. With Ginger’s luck, he half expected to see Bev walk in. She wouldn’t speak to him or Buck for a week. Ginger laughed to himself. He knew Bev wasn’t like that. She seldom complained when old girlfriends dropped by. Marjorie had been a little more jealous. She thought the bar business a bit silly and that Ginger kept it for reasons other than monetary gain. She said he was too intelligent to waste his time at a bar. And as far as his writing, that seemed more of an excuse for hanging on to the bar than actually writing. His so-called novel was more of a reflection of past love affairs than anything else. There wasn’t much of a plot to it, except getting women in and out of his bed. After six months of dating, she avoided his writing like the plague. Her one-time interest turned to suspicion about everything he wrote. His little bar was often referred to as “the dive.” And to think people still asked him what happened, said they had seemed like such a wonderful couple. Of course, some of Marjorie’s suspicions were well founded.
Ginger watched Marjorie play with Buckshot. He hoped they could forget the past and develop a friendship, especially if she was going to frequent the bar with Hopkins and Linda. He prayed it would not be with this new guy. He wished for this to be his first and last encounter with Joe Cooper, but he doubted it very seriously.
“Did you tell him I was here?” asked Marjorie.
Ginger smiled. Buckshot gave a friendly wag at him. “I’m not smiling at you, so just forget it. You didn’t get away with anything.”
“What did Buck do this time?” Marjorie stroked the back of his neck.
“Ate my French fries.”
“Well, maybe he was hungry. Weren’t you, boy?”
Ginger picked up a few empties from a nearby table. Both men were regulars in their sixties, widowers. They weren’t on the prowl, just couldn’t bear the thought of staying home alone, watching television and remembering. They were two-timers, coming in the morning for coffee and about four or five o’clock for dominoes, shuffleboard, darts or pool, whatever was the latest thing. It was like seasons, not only weather-wise, but like baseball season, football season, and basketball season. Shuffleboard was dying out and soon darts would be the focus for a while, then pool. But always, although sporadic, were dominoes.
Ginger had tried to play chess and backgammon a few times, but the distraction and lack of interest prevented it. Once or twice a week, Dr. John Worthy would wander by and, if Ginger was available, after thirty minutes or so of literary discussion they would engage in one game of chess, usually lasting one or two hours.
When they first started, Ginger surprised the good doctor and won several in a row, but over the course of a few years, they were pretty even, with only the doctor truthfully knowing, and he pretended not to. He loved to play chess and took great pride in his ability. The truth was, he preferred the discussions with Ginger. He loved literature even more than chess. In fact, even more than the medical field. He would come by more often, but he thought he was expected to come by only periodically. And he was used to doing what was expected of him.
Ginger had sent flowers to the funeral and even called Dr. Worthy’s office, but as expected, he was absent. He hoped John would come by. He sincerely liked the man and enjoyed their friendship. John would occasionally venture to the lake, sometimes with Jeff, to fish and hunt.
Ginger turned his attention back to Marjorie.
“Buck looks a little thin, Ginger. Has he been sick?”
“No, the girls have been in heat and… well, you know.”
“Yeah, I know.” She looked sternly at Ginger. “Buckshot, you behave yourself. I’m surprised at you.” Buckshot ducked his head, as if being scolded. Marjorie ruffled his head with both hands playfully. “He sure is a good dog. I miss him. Too bad you couldn’t have been that good.” She smiled.
“Maybe I was. You just expected a lot more from me.”
She paused as if in thought. She looked into his blue eyes and felt the same deep feeling she had had the first time she met him. She smiled. “Maybe I did.” She extended her hand. “Friends?”
“We can do better than that.” He hugged her. “Now you go enjoy your date. I’ve got beer to serve.”
She smiled, wiped at her eyes, and walked toward Joe Cooper, totally prepared for what lay ahead.
He had seen her display of affection toward Ginger. Somebody would pay for his feeling of neglect. Not Marjorie, or even Ginger. At least not for the time being. He was not stupid. He needed them. In their own ignorance of his deeds and his plans, as yet unmanifested, they were a viable cog in the machinery. Still, he felt a vengeance surging within. He must deal with it discreetly.
“I think I need some help,” Joe said.
“Hey, you’re supposed to win so the four of us can play.”
Matt, shooting against Joe, interrupted. “Joe is holding up his end. We’re about even, but Rick is doing his usual wonderful job at the other end.”
Rick’s puck slid down the rail, missing his opponent’s puck and sliding off the end of the table. He looked up at the laughing faces. “I guess we didn’t win, huh?”
“Linda, come on. We’ve got to bail your husband out, as usual.”
Linda took her beer and walked to the shuffleboard, intent on her motives. She put her arms around her husband and gave him a kiss. “Don’t worry, sugar. Momma is here! I’ll whip these bad boys who made my boy cry.”
“Make them suffer, Momma.”
Everybody in the bar roared. Even Joe laughed with sincerity. Hopkins ducked his head and sadly walked to the bar. Ginger had a fresh beer waiting for him.
“I know. Just setting them up for later.”
“You got it, partner. For the really big bucks.”
“Right!”
Dot, still giggling at Hopkins, walked around the bar to pour herself another glass of wine.
“If I had known you were going to stay on this side of the bar all night, I would have gone home and let you work.” Ginger looked at Dot.
“If I’d get some service like when I’m working, I wouldn’t have to.” Ginger looked at Rick and laughed.
“Keep the wine away from your hired help, Ginger, and you wouldn’t have these problems.”
“I think maybe you’re right.”
“You both can stick it where the sun don’t shine.”
Joe stood for some time beside Marjorie, watching her play. She was a fair player, but Linda was something else. She was blasting her opponent, Paul, off the table. All he could do was shake his head, smile, and say, “Good shot!”
Joe joined Rick at the bar. They talked between themselves and Ginger about nothing in particular. “Next weekend I thought I’d bring Joe for a little hunting. That okay?”
Ginger looked to see if Joe was watching. He was. “Sure. Why don’t you bring your sidekick along as well?”
“Dave?” Hopkins was surprised.
“Yeah. Give him a chance to pick out a puppy.”
“You’re really going to give him one?”
“Suppose I’ll have to.”
“You’re right. Break his heart if you don’t. Just put it on my tab.”
“I’m glad you brought that up.”
“How much is it, ten bucks?”
“At least.”
“Hey, turn on the television for a minute. I want to see if our boy made copy tonight.”
Ginger ejected the CD and flipped on the television. Everyone looked up as Davis Wilson reviewed the past few days of “murder and citizen heroism.” Joe felt his stomach tighten. He had almost forgotten something he could ill afford to forget. He had almost felt part of something. But he wasn’t, nor did he wish to be, unless it was temporarily to gain an edge.
Davis Wilson, true to his words, did not mention Joe Cooper’s name, but added he would have an exclusive interview the following day with the man who had killed the murderer.
“So you’re going to be a hero, Joe,” Hopkins said. Everybody in the bar suddenly had big ears.
“Way to go, blabbermouth. No wonder there are leaks in your department.” Marjorie shook her head. “What Sarge Hopkins is trying not to tell you is that Joe, here, is the man who shot the killer you’ve all heard about. He was in the liquor store when the crime went down. The perpetrator dropped his weapon. Joe grabbed the gun and shot the man.”
Everyone looked at Joe and muttered in admiration. Ginger watched intently, not really knowing why, but looking for some answer in Joe’s mannerisms. He found none.
Matt stepped closer. “Did you see the man kill the clerk?”
Joe looked to Marjorie, then to Hopkins. Hopkins turned on his stool toward Matt.
“Yeah, he saw everything. But that’s all he can say until tomorrow. Wait until the official statement, then he can come by and tell everything. We’ll get him drunk and call him hero.”
“Hell, we’re doing that right now. I want to hear the gore. You know, up close and personal,” replied Matt.
“Are you sure you’re not a reporter?” asked Joe.
“I could be. Probably be better than that wimpy-looking fart.”
“Come on, Matt. You can be a reporter tomorrow. Right now your main concern is shuffleboard.” Marjorie was trying to change the subject.
“Yeah, that’s right. My shot, too.” He was back in the game. “No time for hero worship now.”
“I forgot about the interview,” Joe said to Marjorie. “I guess I’d better go pretty soon. I don’t want to look hung over on the tube.”
“Sure, whenever you’re ready.”
“Finish your game, we’ll have one last beer, and then go.”
Marjorie smiled in agreement and returned to the game. Joe had no intention of going back to his room. He would go to the Whiskey Trough and go home with Pam. He knew Marjorie was attracted to him, but any intimacy would take a while. He wasn’t sure he wanted to move in that direction, instead just close enough to keep abreast of the prosecution, but distant enough to avoid any complications.
* * *
Marjorie and Joe watched the Hopkins enter their home. Marjorie accepted a gentle kiss from Joe. She told him thoughtfully how much she enjoyed the evening and how she had needed such an outing. She even suggested they go out again. Before she could be business-like, Joe interrupted with his own thoughts. Perhaps they should wait until so much of his exposure had died down, just to avoid any problem for either of them. She was so impressed, she almost wanted to object. He gave her another kiss, not on the cheek, perhaps a con, but a kiss fully on the lips, as if he were sincerely interested, but somewhat confused by his new situation, a bit nervous and even a little out of social position.
Marjorie circulated these thoughts around her slightly drunk brain. She tried to place herself in his position.
He was a fly-by-night roofing contractor chasing storms and living out of a suitcase. Suddenly, he’s cast into a major scene, a murder scene, and the next few nights he’s out with the assistant DA. She could visualize his discomfort, even a certain amount of fear. After all, he had killed a man. No matter how justified, his life was suddenly turned upside down and basically he was among strangers. She had her obligations, but still… she could not dismiss his terribly awkward position, his anxiety, his need for a friend. Perhaps he wasn’t that much different than her. He endured the entire evening, plus an actual, physical meeting of her ex-boyfriend. She had gotten caught up in her own emotions and been neglectful of his. She watched as Joe got into his pickup. Now he was going to a motel room to spend an evening alone and confused.
Marjorie drove the Continental from the Hopkins’ home toward her own across town, in the same area as Judy Evans, but not on the same street. Her house was not as expensive as Judy’s, although she probably had more expensive possessions. But in her heart, neither house was more valuable than Rick and Linda’s. Their house was not filled with antiques and paintings, but with love, children, and pets, neighbors and neighbor kids, stray animals, a refrigerator always begging to be opened, a front door never closed, and somewhere in all the mess a husband and wife who loved each other now more than the day they married. She pulled into her garage, anxious for her bed, wishing it were not so large.