Page 64 of Badges
I’m always impressed with his memory. After thirty years, he still has perfect recall of every file he’s looked at.
“That’s what I came to discuss.” I slump into the opposite seat, the exhaustion of the night is heavy on my shoulders. “I’ve narrowed it down a bit, Max Simmons is looking like a strong possibility.”
I’ll give Cade the benefit of the doubt, for now, unless something comes up.
Pete tuts, shaking his head. “That’s a hell of a can of worms to open up. You know the judge will come in to play.”
Lifting my hat, I run my fingers through my hair before dropping it back over my ears. “I hate how fucking corrupt this county is, Pete. Matt got off on nearly killing his ex-wife without so much as a slap on the wrist. And let’s not even talk about that pack of assholes who raped and murdered that gal behind the bar a few years back.” My jaw tics in frustration knowing that half of them got off because of that judge.
Pete lets out a long exhale. “I hear ya. I need something Pilgrim Rock solid to pin to Max if you have something.”
I pick at my thumbnail, avoiding his gaze. “I think I do. The biological father of the girl that’s missing. We can use that to try and gain custody the old fashioned way.”
Pete leans forward, intertwining his fingers on his desk. “Well, that would be amazing. Except I know Quincy’s long out of the picture.” His nostrils flare subtly.
I wonder if he knows how Quincy came up missing.
Pete’s never said a word to me about it through the years.
“He ain’t the dad.” I raise my eyes to meet his. “I’m pretty dang sure I am.”
His lips form a silent whistle as he falls away, reclining his office chair before he twists to look out the window.
“Holy shit, Wade.” A squeak emanates from under him as he rocks idly. “Wild, but helpful. We’ll need to finally put in an official submission of records for the child.” When he turns to face me, his eyes spark with ideas.
“This could work. Excellent diversion from Elena. I’ll help you get the ball rolling.” His smirk tugs at this salt and peppered mustache. “We’ll get that kid safe one way or another. If Max has her, it’ll free us up to pin that bastard to the wall.” His palmsflatten on the oak surface before him and he pushes himself up. “I have to run, but congratulations, papa,” he chuckles.
“Thanks,” I say wryly as I leave.
Who knows what kind of shit storm this is going to start?
And how will Elena and I weather it?
Will this convince her to give me another chance, or does all of this change things permanently?
I can still almost taste her, and feel how hard her sweet little pussy squeezed my fingers.
But the part I’m going to miss is her smile, her playful banter, and the way she always seemed legitimately interested in my day.
All over something that happened more than a decade ago.
The rest of the morning goes by in a blur.
Paige, thankfully, keeps to herself and disappears before noon.
There aren’t any calls, so I’m able to catch up on some paperwork.
My stomach is growling when I pull into the parking lot at Hilltop.
Shit, no wonder. I don’t think I ate anything other than Elena last night.
Damn it.
I’d starve myself from all food if I could have another meal of her.
Blue’s propped up near the wall with a menu when I walk in.
“Hey, no more sling?” I ask as I spin a chair around.
