28
Berkeley, Alta Bates Hospital, March 2008
“Dad, why don’t we have a policeman, or any security here?” Steven said. “Don’t they usually post someone outside the door?”
“There is a man out there." Jeff looked at his son. “Haven’t you noticed him?”
“It seems pretty obvious, she’s in danger as soon as whoever shot her learns that she’s still alive. They sure didn’t give up after the first time they shot at her. And the last couple times I went out to get food, the guy wasn’t there.”
“I’ll take care of it,” Jeff said.
“Dad, could this possibly have to do with the case you are trying?”
Jeff shook his head. “I did consider the possibility but I don’t see how.”
“Has anyone threatened you?”
Jeff continued to shake his head. “No. No threats, no demands.”
“Al had a letter––"
Jeff interrupted, “That letter had nothing whatsoever to do with this. Did either of you happen to look at the date? It was years old, just happened to be on my desk as I’d been cleaning out file drawers. Your sister must’ve scooped it up along with the Zodiac file.”
“What is the case?” Steven asked.
“What?” Jeff looked at his daughter, his attention on her. He picked up her hand, rubbed her fingers.
“The case you’re trying? What is it?” Steven asked again.
“It’s a homicide. No possibility of a connection. A man killed his wife. Pretty straight forward except he’s well enough off to hire the best defense. That’s always a challenge to the prosecution, but no possible connection to our problem.”
“I don’t believe you. This has to be connected to you Dad. Maybe the defendant hopes to distract you.”
“That has definitely been accomplished, but doesn’t this seem extreme?” Jeff shook his head. “No, I don’t think so.”
“What else would it be?”