Chapter 9


     It was nine o’clock Monday morning and Tracy was already wishing she could go back to the weekend and spend time alone with Jeffrey and the children. Instead, she was in the family room of her home with Press Secretary, Pearl Lassiter, who happened to be one of Samuel’s sisters, Ashley and Madison Gresham. Pearl and Ashley were fine—Mattie, as she called herself, was an entirely different story. “What’s the problem with the statement, Ms. Gresham?” Tracy asked as tactfully as she could.

     “Please, call me Mattie, Tracy. We are going to be spending a lot of time together over the next eighteen months. There is no need for formalities.” She sat on the edge of the table and crossed her legs. “The first problem is mentioning JD in any of this. I mean this is your personal problem, to deal with not his. In fact, I’m not too sure he needs to be at this press conference.” 

     Pearl and Ashley looked at each other. Neither was getting a good vibe from this woman. “Where would you be if it were your husband, Ms. Gresham?”

     “I can see we are going to have a problem with theses names aren’t we.”

     “Not really.” Tracy replied. “Your name is Ms. Gresham. My name is Mrs. Harrison. See it’s very clear. Just like what you are sitting on is a table. Right next to the table is a chair. One you sit in, the other you don’t.”

     Mattie stood slowly, then took a seat on the sofa. “I’m just here to help, Mrs. Harrison.” She emphasized the name. “It is imperative that all statements made, with or for JD, are free of any type of scandal. Remember, he is running for Governor of the state. He, not you, will have to answer to the public for any shall we say indiscretions on his part. He does not need to add your family issues to a growing laundry list of items the opposition can use against him.”

     “Their family is one in the same, Mattie,” Pearl stated. 

     “I don’t see any incidents regarding the Harrison family coming to the surface.” She crossed her legs. “The truth of the matter is Mrs. Harrison’s family’s growing complications are going to hurt this campaign. As it is we already have to explain, a brother that is a felon, and a missing father or a man that she thought was her father. Now, there’s a new father, who happens to be a very popular Senator, and a step-sister, who not only is the First Lady of Virginia, but she used to sleep with your husband. None of you may like what I’m saying, but all of you know enough about politics to know each of these issues are going to be thrown at us and we better have an action plan in place on how we are going to handle each of these situations.” She stood. “Now is a good time for me to leave the room so you can rant and rave about my attitude while I’m gone. But be ready to work when I return. Where’s your ladies room?” She asked Tracy all in one breath.

     It was a minute before Tracy replied. “Around the corner on the right.”

     Mattie frowned, “Is that one of those little powder rooms with a commode and a sink?
     “Yes,” Tracy replied.

     “No, I need a big bathroom. One that doesn’t feel like the room is closing in on me.”

     Trying hard to be a gracious hostess, Tracy replied. “There is a bathroom upstairs between the children’s room. I’ll show you.”

     “You stay here, I’ll find it. I’m sure your friends have things to discuss with you.”

     The women watched as Mattie walked up the stairs. “She’s right I don’t like what she said, I don’t like the way she said it. But she missed the most important one. I don’t like her.” Ashley declared as she stood and pointed to Tracy. “You better watch her. That woman will do anything including sleep with your husband, if it means winning.”

     “It’s not about JD or the fact that he is damn easy on the eyes,” Pearl added, “It could be any man with power including your husband.” She looked at Ashley. “Mattie Gresham likes power. Look at the way she came in and took over this meeting. Has anyone else spoken or given an opinion? No. It’s power and intimidation that she feeds off of. Tracy she sees you as an inconvenience that has to be dealt with during this campaign. Now is the time for you to establish two things.” She waited until Tracy was looking at her then continued. “First and foremost, you are Jeffrey Harrison’s wife and you have a say and a place in this campaign that she cannot and will not interfere with.  Then you need to make sure your husband understands, if she crosses the line even once, her ass is out.”

     “I’m not sure I can interfere with Jeffrey’s staff in that way. He needs these people to win.”

     “Well, I can certainly interfere in who works in my husband’s office.” Ashley stated as she looked towards the stairs. “Why can’t you?” 

     “Do you think she would ever talk to Carolyn Roberts that way?” Pearl asked. “No, she wouldn’t. She worked on Gavin’s campaign and I will bet money she never crossed Carolyn. We can think whatever we want about Carolyn but she is one of the most powerful women in politics today. She’s smart, fearless, and she goes after what she wants or what her husband wants. Once this press conference is over, I suggest you mention Madison Gresham and some of the things she said to you today and I can guarantee she is going to have something to say about it.”

     Tracy walked over to the picture window and looked out on her quiet residential street. The image of news trucks and reporters played in her mind for she knew that’s what the streets would look like a few days from now.  It was time for her to ask for help. Pearl was right, Mattie would not talk to Carolyn the way she did with her. “I’ll talk with Jeffrey about Ms. Gresham.”

     “That’s another thing. Stop calling her that. Call her Mattie. Continue to insist she refer to you as Mrs. Harrison. Establish here and now your role in this campaign.” Pearl stood and walked over to the doorway of JD’s office. “I’m going to use the office to call headquarters. I think the statement is fine the way it is, I don’t care what Mattie thinks.” She stepped into the office and closed the door. 

     Ashley looked at Tracy. “That woman is after your husband. She did not need to be here for this meeting—why is she here?”

     “James indicated Mattie wanted to make sure the statement doesn’t have a negative impact on Jeffrey.” Tracy replied.

     “I’m going to have a talk with her.” Ashley stated and began walking up the stairs.

     “Ashley, Jeffrey asked me to handle this and I don’t want to disappoint him.”

     “I’m just talking to her. I’m not going to kill her or anything. Go get something to drink and calm your nerves. I’ll be right back.” Ashley stated and continued up the steps.  

     When she reached the door to the bathroom Mattie had been directed to she saw that it was empty. She walked down the hallway to the double doors that led to the master bedroom. Mattie was coming out of JD’s walk-in-closet. “What in the hell are you doing in here?”

     A startled Mattie jumped at the sound of her voice. “This is a beautiful house. I was taking a look around.”

     “In someone’s private bedroom?” 

     “The master bedroom is the heart of any house.” She waved Ashley off and walked towards the door. “But I’m sure you know that. I would love an opportunity to see your house someday.”

     As Mattie attempted to walk out the door, Ashley’s arm blocked her exit. “You will never set foot in my house. If you’re ever invited by my husband, I suggest you turn him down. If you don’t I will have him retract the invitation and will be glad to tell him why.”

     “Mrs. Brooks, I’m just doing my job.” She acted as if she was offended. “The things I have to tell clients are not always nice and sometimes I’m not as tactful as I should be. But I am very good at what I do.”

     “I have no doubt that you are. The question I have is what exactly you are up to. Unlike Tracy, I don’t see the good in people. I see what is. And I don’t like what I see in you. So here’s my advice. You better cover your tracks well. If one more picture of you and my brother, in close proximity of each other hits the media or is sent to Tracy, I’m going to kick your ass. Then I will make sure your professional life becomes non-existent.” Mattie stared Ashley down, then walked out of the room. “Mattie,” Ashley called out. The woman stopped and turned back to her. “I want you to really think about who I am and the power at my disposal before you make another move.” She walked up to her. “Do I have the power to do what I said? Yes—I’m a member of one of the wealthiest, most powerful political families in the country. Will I do it? Yes I would do anything to protect my friend. If I do, how far will I take it? ” She smiled and began walking down the stairs. “Answers—yes—yes and until life as you know it no longer exists.” She looked over her shoulder and said, “Try me—I triple dare you,” she then continued down the steps. “I found her. We can finish up now.”  

♡♡♡♡

     Tucker waited for the man to leave and was surprised to see he was watching the home of a police officer. Before he reached his car, a woman came out to give him his hat. He raised his hand to take the hat and the woman ducked. Tucker sat up. He knew that sign. He’d seen it time and time again when he was growing up. The officer took the hat, said something, then got into his car and pulled away. Tucker watched as one of his cars pulled off behind the officer, then turned back to the woman. She was wearing a dress that was too thin for the March weather, he thought as she bent down to pull something from the flower bed near the door, then walked back into the house. He sat there for a moment. Getting a look at the house would be a little difficult with someone inside. But he had to get inside. Getting out of the car, he walked across the street dressed in a business suit and a long black trench coat that hung opened. He knocked on the door and wasn’t quite prepared for what he saw. Stunned it took him a moment to speak. The woman couldn’t be more than five three or four at the most. If she weighed one hundred and ten pounds, he would be surprised. Her short stylish hair cut was very attractive on her and a face that clearly belonged to an angel, even with the signs of recent abuse. 

     “May I help you?” She asked in a smooth silky voice that reminded him of Toni Braxton.

     It took him a moment to gather his thoughts, which was unusual for the smooth talking confident man. “Hello. I apologize for the interruption. I’m looking for a house for my mother and I noticed there are a few houses on the block for sale. Would you mind answering a few questions about the neighborhood?”

     “I’m sorry. I really don’t talk to strangers.”

     He put his hand to his chest. “Please forgive me. I didn’t notice anyone else around until I saw you walk in the house.” He looked around. “I guess this is a working class neighborhood.” He turned back to her. “It’s important to me that my mother is safe and comfortable wherever I decided to buy her house. You know with neighbors that will watch over her and visit every now and then.”

     She smiled at him and placed her hand above her breast. “That is very thoughtful.” She looked out the door, then took a step out. “Well, there are a number of seniors that live on this block. Um, there’s Mrs. Gray on the corner and she’s been here for a while.” She pointed to the house in question. “Then there is Mr. and Mrs. Turner directly across the street from her. And of course there is Mrs. Lewis, who will definitely let you know anything that goes on in the neighborhood.” She smiled. She wrapped her arms around her body as the wind picked up a little. Tucker took off his coat and put it over her shoulders. “Oh no, I can’t take your coat.”

     “Please Mrs.?”

     “Mrs. Gary. Julianna Gary.”

     “Mrs. Gary. This is so important for me. Where my mother is now, is just not safe. And she doesn’t deserve anything but the best life can offer. No woman does.” He stated and hoped she was listening.

     Julianna pulled the coat around her and relished in the warmth within. Looking around, she didn’t see anyone looking. “Why don’t you come inside for just a minute and I’ll tell you about some of the homes.”

     “Thank you Mrs. Gary. I would really appreciate that.”

♡♡♡♡

     Calvin sat in JD’s office waiting for him to complete his conversation with Mrs. Langston. Each morning they met to go over case assignments and office issues. “Mrs. Langston please hold all of my and Calvin’s calls for the next hour. Also, send Tracy some flowers and on the card write, Forever-For Always-For Love.”

     Mrs. Langston stood back and looked at him. “Somebody had a good weekend.”

     JD couldn’t help but smile. “All hell broke loose at my house, but all is well now.”

     “As long as all is well now, that’s all that matters. I’ll take care of this right away.” She smiled and closed the door as she walked out of the office.

     “Well, how did the situation with Carolyn turnout?”

     “It didn’t go too well at first. I even walked out.” He saw Calvin frown, “I went to talk to my mother.”

     “So you ran home to mother.”

     “Who else? I’m glad I did.” He hesitated then looked up. “Calvin is it possible to pull the case file on my father’s death?”

     “I’m sure we could.” Calvin flinched in his seat. He knew more than JD did about James Harrisons’ death. He, Brian and Samuel decided not to divulge what they knew to JD. “Why?” He asked as casually as he could.

     “My mother mentioned his wedding ring. She said it was never returned to her. I’d like to find it and give it back to her.”

     Calvin relaxed. “I’ll see what I can do.”

     “I appreciate that. As for the situation, we all decided to hold a press conference this week. Senator Roth is going to make the announcement in conjunction with his decision to retire from public office. In addition to that, the Attorney General wants a proposal within forty-eight hours on the merit of offering Al Day an early release in return for his assistance with getting Munford off the street.”

     “That’s not a bad trade if you ask me. Day is one criminal. Munford is one plus many others he is allowing to roam the street. Day did not make a commitment to protect the people of this community or to uphold the constitution, Munford did. Day, at the very least had a reason for turning to a life of crime. Munford’s reason is greed. Shall I go on?”

    JD smiled, “No I get your meaning. How do you think it will play out in the world of public opinion?”

     “They are going to say you did all you could to get your wife’s brother out of prison. Those on the right will accuse you of abuse of the office, while the brother’s on the corner will praise your actions. Then you have the men in the barber shop that will say, have you seen the body on his wife, I’ll let the brother go too, just to keep her happy. Bottom line, you are not going to please everyone with everything you do. Regardless of the fall-out, you have to do what’s right. Or you will not be able to live with yourself.”  

     JD grinned and looked away. He stood and walked over to the window with his hands in his pockets and stared at the floor. Calvin smirked and waited. “Al has always been a man of integrity in his own way. At sixteen he did what he had to, to protect his little sister and has been doing it ever since. How many brothers has he helped start their own businesses in North side? What was it he said, ‘Get in, get what you need, and get out.’ He encourages all of his people to go legit. What do you think Al would be if he was legit? Tracy says he is twice as smart as she is, can you believe that?” He shook his head, and Calvin remained quiet. He knew JD was thinking through the situation and would arrive at his own decision without any input from him. “For him to run his empire as smoothly as he did—or does, he would have to be a genius. To tell the truth, if he hadn’t come forward, we never would have gotten him—not on what we had. I think Al took the opportunity to get out of the business gracefully. When he comes out he will be ready to go legit.” With a decision made, JD returned to his chair. “Calvin, get me Al’s file. Get what information you can on anyone he helped with starting a business and that may be willing to write an affidavit about it today. Ensure that any person, who comes forward, does so under immunity for any past discretion. After you gather the information, I want it delivered directly to my house. Bring Rossie with you when you come. I want his feedback on what we are about to do and what we write.”

     “You realize he will be your hardest critic on this.”

     “That’s why I want him,” JD replied as he picked up the telephone. 

♡♡♡♡

     Within an hour of placing the call, Tracy opened the door to find Carolyn there. “Hello Tracy. Pearl called and said you needed me. Here I am.” She walked through the door as regally as a queen addressing her court.  

     Tracy simply shook her head and smiled. “I’m glad you could come on such short notice.” Pearl said as they walked into the living room. “I think you know everyone.”

     “Yes. Mattie, Mattie, Mattie. I’m pretty sure you are the reason I’ve been summoned.”

     “Carolyn,” Mattie spoke as she stood. “It’s good to see you on your feet.”

      “Tssk Tssk Mattie,” Carolyn smirked. “It’s un-lady like to be condescending.” She looked around. “Hello Ashley.”

     “Carolyn, you’re looking well.”

     “I know. I’m just remarkable like that.”

     “She’s back,” Tracy smiled.

     “So I understand we are working on the speech and Mattie has concerns,” Carolyn stated as she stared directly at the woman. She looked around the room at a few curious faces and smiled. “Madison you must have said something you had no business saying to upset this very mild mannered woman. Whatever it was, I suggest you get the hell out of my face and go back to the office, before I start naming the men you have used to climb your way to whatever it is you do.” 

     Madison smirked at Carolyn, “Your term as First Lady is coming to end soon. What will you do then?”

     “Continue to be a nightmare to you when I become wife of Senator Gavin Roberts.”

     “Are you sure about that? It seems there are a number of skeleton’s in your closet from your brief stint with the bottle. Do you really think the public is ready to forgive and forget?”

     Carolyn shrugged her shoulders, “I don’t know and don’t care. But I can tell you this, Tracy is now family. You screw with her, you screw with me. Whatever is left when Ashley is finished with you, I will devour.” She smiled sweetly at the woman, then looked up at Pearl. “Mattie is one of the brightest minds in politics. If she has an issue, you should listen and make adjustments. But let’s make sure everyone is clear. Tracy is the candidate’s wife, her wishes come first. If she is not comfortable with the statement, it will not come across as believable to the public. Tracy, you cannot stand idly by and allow Mattie or anyone else to control this situation. You run them, they don’t run you. Okay, now that all the cards are on the table, let’s get down to work. What is your issue Mattie?” 

♡♡♡♡

     Sitting in the interrogation room at Richmond Police headquarters was not a regular occurrence for Ryan. Her father, brothers, and uncles were all cops. Whoever, had her brought in, had to have a death wish. When they knocked on her door, she sent a text message to her boss, telling him what was going down just in case she was late. She then called her brother. Taking a glance at her watch, she’d been sitting and waiting for close to an hour. How cool, she thought, they’re trying to make me sweat. She reached into her purse pulled out her cell and was about to send a text message when she heard commotion outside the door. Apparently, her brother had arrived. To her surprise, he wasn’t alone. She smiled as Donnell, Brian, and Samuel appeared in the doorway. “I guess they waited too long.” 

     “You can’t fix stupid,” Samuel stated as his six-six frame filled the room. “What are they holding you for slick?”

     “No one has bothered to inform me.”

     “Why the hell not,” Donnell yelled as he knocked on the two-way glass on the opposite side of the room. 

     “Maybe we should call your attorney.” Brian stated as he pulled out his blackberry. “I’m sure he can find out why you are being detained.”

     A few minutes later two detectives walked into the room. The first man through the door was a tall, slim black man, not bad on the eyes, but had an exasperated look. The other was a little shorter white guy with a pleasant disposition. “Let me guess—good cop—bad cop,” Ryan pointed to the black detective first then the white one.   

     “Sorry, I’m the nice one,” the black detective smiled. “He’s the hard ass.” 

     “Are any of you gentlemen her attorney?” The white cop asked.

     “Gary, don’t make me whip your ass in your own precinct,” Donnell threatened.

     Brian touched Donnell’s arm, pulling him back. “Is Ms. Williams under arrest?” he asked.

     “Since you chose not to provide me with an answer I don’t see any reason I should reciprocate.” Gary replied.

     Samuel and Brian looked at each other and grinned. “Such a big word for such a little man.” He put the blackberry on the desk.

     “Gentlemen, I don’t believe I got your names when you introduced yourselves. Allow me to show you how it’s done. My name is Vernon Brooks. I am Ms. Williams’ attorney. I’m not there in person, because I’m in a meeting with the US Attorney General. Would either of you gentlemen like an introduction?” Vernon Brooks was one of the top criminal defense attorneys in the country and happened to be James’ brother. The two detectives looked at each other they immediately recognized the name. The black detective put his head down and tried to suppress his grin. “The rule of etiquette dictates that when one introduces oneself to unknown persons in the room the gesture is reciprocated Detective Gary.”  

     “Detective Cole,” the black officer stated. “And as you know Detective Gary, at your service, counselor.”

     “Ah, the good cop,” Vernon chuckled. “Gentlemen, my time is limited and my client will not converse with you, without me. Prior to my client sharing as much as her name, you will explicate to my satisfaction, the series of events that impelled you to seek out my client. Anyone need a dictionary to understand my vocabulary?”

     “I think we understood your question counselor,” Detective Gary snidely replied.

     “Good. Answer the question,” Vernon commanded.

     Detective Cole looked up at Detective Gary with a question in his eyes. “Mr. Brooks, what proof do we have that you are who you say you are?”

      “You’re as big of an ass as your chief.” Vernon sighed. “Brian, escort Ms. Williams out of the station. Detective, if they are delayed by as much as a minute tell your chief to expect a law-suit. Do not attempt to approach my client in any fashion without contacting my office first. This meeting is complete.” 

     Ryan stood in her signature stilettos boots, jeans, tee shirt, and leather jacket. “Well gentlemen, it’s been real.” She picked up her purse and looked at Brian. “I’m impressed boss.” She turned to the detectives and smirked. “I’m sorry we didn’t get a chance to chat. Next time don’t make me wait so long.” 

     Following the group out of the door, Detective Cole touched Donnell on the shoulder. “You have a moment?”

     Donnell looked him up and down, and then motioned for Brian and Samuel, “I’ll meet you at the car.”

     “I worked for your father in Hampton. How’s he doing?”

     Donnell stared at the man at first wondering why he stopped him from leaving. “He’s doing well,” he answered hesitantly.

     “When you talk to him, tell him hello for me.”

     Detective Gary stood listening intently to the conversation. Once he was comfortable with the conversation being had, he walked away. “I’m going to make a call while you continue your love feast.”

     “This will only be a minute.” Detective Cole stated as he watched the man walk away. “This was a dirty grab.” He said but continued to smile as if it was a general conversation. “Your sister was summoned down by the Chief and he is not going to be happy with the outcome. I’m not privy to the questions he wanted answers to, but I will tell you this. He’s gotten wind of questions coming from the AG’s office.” He patted Donnell on the back and shook his hand. “Watch over her.” He said as he walked away. 

     Donnell walked out and got into the SUV waiting outside the building. He read the note that was placed in his hand. It was a phone number. Written underneath it said “disposable”

     “What was that about?” Brian asked.

     “I don’t know. You got a disposable cell phone?” Donnell asked.

     “I know where you can get a few untraceable if you need them,” Ryan offered. Donnell, Samuel, and Brian all turned to look at her. “What?” she asked.

     “Anything we need to know about?” Samuel asked.

     “No. I have no idea why they brought me in.” she declared.

     Donnell, who sat in the back seat with Ryan, looked up at Brian. “According to Cole, Munford ordered her to be picked up.” 

     “Why?” They all looked at Ryan.

     “Look I’m getting sick of y’all. Can we leave this place?”

     Brian stared a moment longer, then turned around and pulled off.

♡♡♡♡

     “There was a glitch—she lawyered up,” Officer Gary spoke into the phone. 

     “I don’t give a damn about a lawyer. Question her anyway,” Munford stated.

     “We had to let her go or risk questions being asked. You’re forgetting—Cole is my partner.”

     “I need access to Harrison’s house. The information to Day’s location has got to be there. Pull the Williams woman back in and pump her until you get something useful.”

     “I don’t think that’s the way to go.”

     An angry Munford shouted, “I don’t give a damn what you think. Get the information and get it now!” The call was disconnected.

     Gary exhaled and put the telephone away. “Emotions are the beginning of the end.” He said to himself while shaking his head.

     “Everything alright man?” Cole asked. 

     “Yeah. I think I’m going to ride home—grab some lunch. I’ll see you in an hour.”

     Cole watched as Gary walked out of the station door.

♡♡♡♡

     Tucker sat in the unmarked SUV across the street from the Gary residence and thought about the woman inside—Julianna Gary was the kind of woman who could make a man go straight. The woman sparked his interest like no other—but she was married. His cell phone chimed as he shook the thoughts of her smile from his mind. Looking at the number that appeared he shook his head and exhaled. It was his boss’ daughter. “Yes Monique.”

     “Uncle Tuck I want to come to Richmond this weekend but Mommy said I can’t go.”

     “Why do you need to come here?” Tuck asked as he watched a car pull into the driveway of the house he’d just left. “I know I told you to stay away from Bear.”

     The girl smacked her lips. “I ain’t thinking about Bear, Uncle Tuck. Me and Kaylen want to go to the mall.”

     “There are malls in Norfolk,” he replied as he saw a neighbor talking to Officer Gary.

     “I want to go to the new one in Richmond,” the sixteen year old whined.

     “No.” Tuck replied with his patience running low. 

     “Look you ain’t my daddy. I was just trying to be polite to call you in the first place.”

     “Keep your ass in Norfolk. Goodbye Monique.” Tuck closed his phone. The device he’d placed in the living room, and bedroom of the home should be sufficient for what he needed. He listened and watched as Gary entered the house. His initial fears were realized as he watched the monitor. The impact of the back hand Gary rendered on his wife prompted Tuck to exit the SUV, but he stopped knowing if he interfered, it could affect the case.  

     “You had a man in my house. I’m working and you had a man in my house.” Gary yelled.

     Julianna was on the floor in the living room crawling towards the kitchen when he kicked her. 

     The kick was more than Tuck could take. He started the SUV and pulled up in front of the house. He quickly got out, walked over to the car, and placed a devise under the bumper. He then walked up to the door and knocked. He waited and knocked again. When the door opened, Tuck had one hand on the butt of his gun that was secured in the back of his pants. “Hello. There was a lady here earlier that helped me with the house down the street. I was wondering if I could speak with her again.”

     “She’s not available,” Gary replied and was about to shut the door when Tuck stuck his foot in. Gary looked the man up and down as his eyes narrowed. 

     “You must be her husband, Officer Gary.” The man did not reply, but continued to stare. “I want you to take a good look at me. Officer Gary.” Tuck took a step closer until they were almost nose to nose. “I think it’s a good idea for you to return to work—now. If you put your hands on her again, for any reason, you will see me when you least expect it.”

     “Who in the hell are you?”

     “The man who will take your life if you touch her again. Tell your wife goodbye and go back to work Officer Gary.” Gary went to push the man out of his doorway when he suddenly felt the hard cold metal of steel at his forehead and froze. “Leave now, while you can.”

     Gary stepped out of the door-way, “I’m a police officer.”

     “You will be a dead officer if you don’t leave, now.” Tuck put the weapon down by his side. He stood at the door as he watched Gary get into his car and pulled way. Tucker watched until the vehicle was out of site. He walked back into the house to find Julianna curled up in a fetal position in a corner of the kitchen. Her face was red from the hit and her lip was cut. She wrenched when he reached out for her. “I promise I will not allow him to hurt you again. Come with me.” Tucker took off his coat and covered her with it. He then picked her up as she cried out in pain. He placed her on the back seat of the SUV and pulled away. Knowing he’d just caused a whole heap of trouble, he called Brian. “We have a situation,” he said as he looked in the rear view mirror at his passenger.   

♡♡♡♡

     Officer Gary stormed into the precinct and went directly to the computer. He knew the man’s face from somewhere. Checking every data base available, he found nothing. He slammed his fist on the desk. “Damn. Who in the hell was he?” Then it hit him. He pulled out the folder he had on JD Harrison. Inside were photos from the crime scene when Tracy Harrison was nearly beaten to death. There he was Donovan Tucker, Al Day’s lieutenant standing in the background.