CHAPTER 69

 

9:22 p.m.

“Still no answer,” said Matt. “I’ll try again in a few minutes.”

Freitag’s fingers beat a nervous tattoo on the steering wheel, as he raced toward Rita’s apartment. Foster was on the police radio, calling for back-up.

Matt opened his cell phone again, quickly dialing his home number. Val answered on the second ring. “Matt, what’s happening?” she asked. “I tried reaching you at headquarters, but Hard-on – well, it seemed like he knew something, but didn’t want to tell me. Is everything okay?”

“I wish I could say ‘yes,’” said Matt, “but it’s not. Richter’s got Rita.”

“Rita?” said Val. “What do you mean?” Negative thoughts of Matt’s evening out with the female detective filled her head. “I don’t get it. What’s she doing with him?’

“I can’t explain now,” said Matt. “But, don’t wait up. It could be a long night.”

“But, Matt, what if—”

“I’ll call you when I can. I gotta go.” Matt closed his cell phone just as the big Impala pulled up in front of Rita’s apartment building on East 23^rd Street.

“Jesus,” said Foster. “You’d think she could find a better place to live than this dump. I guess she’s still waiting for that knight in shining armor on a white horse.” He immediately regretted his remarks as neither Matt nor Freitag said a word, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

“Why don’t you two wait here,” said Matt. “I’ll go up and see what’s—”

“No way!” said Chris. “I’m coming with you.”

Foster nodded. “I’ll stay here until back-up arrives. Don’t take any unnecessary chances. We’ll have plenty of manpower in a couple of minutes. I don’t need any dead heroes.”

The two partners started up the stairs, Matt in front, Chris not far behind. It appeared few residents were at home, due the beginning of the weekend. Davis and Freitag arrived at the second floor, and Matt reached out and rang the bell to Rita’s apartment. No answer. They waited a few seconds longer, then heard a loud crash within the apartment. Chris knocked frantically on the door, calling, “Rita, are you okay?”