Page 117 of Bazooka
“We have a suspect. A disgruntled ex-soldier, dishonorably discharged after disobeying his commanding officer. I’m expecting a confirmation from my team, and then we’ll go after him.”
I breathed an audible sigh of relief. “That’s fucking great to hear. Sorry for cussing, General, but… things have been intense lately.”
“No need to apologize, Detective. In fact, I wanted to thank you. I heard that charges against my son’s assailants have beenpressed. Do you think those individuals were the same ones who broke into Mikolaj’s apartment?”
So, he knew about that, too.
“No, I don’t think it was them,” I replied.
But I think it was Mendoza.
“Anyway, that’s not why I’m calling you,” General Zablonsky continued. “The thing is, my wife and I are thinking of throwing a barbecue one of the upcoming weekends, and we wanted to invite—”
I stopped him right there.
“I won’t be a buffer zone between you and your son, General. You made this mess, so deal with it on your own.”
“I agree, Detective… may I call you Levi?”
No.
Fuck.
“Okay,” I said with a sigh.
“The thing is, Levi… I have health issues.”
Double fuck.
“I’m sorry to hear that. I hope it’s not serious.”
“My doctor sounds encouraging, but I have a feeling that destiny has caught up with me. Or justice, maybe. But I’m a soldier, and I’ve faced bigger threats.”
“Look, General. I can talk to Luz, but I won’t make him go. It’s his decision.”
“I know that. And you misunderstood me. I would like both of you to come.”
“Why do I need to be there?” I said, rubbing my forehead in frustration. “Honestly, General… I’m just his…”
What the fuck was I to him? Roomie? Friend? Fuck buddy?
“I’m his protector,” I said finally. “His friend at times, but—”
“Levi, you’re all that and so much more,” General Zablonsky interrupted me. “You don’t know how much you changed myson… as far as I’m concerned, you are part of the family now. If you can come, please come.”
Family? I barely knew the meaning of the word.
“You don’t even know if Luz will agree to come,” I said, dragging my hand down my face.
“If you accept my invitation, Mikolaj will accept it, too,” General Zablonsky countered. “I’m sure of it.”
“Look, I… I can’t promise you anything. I’ll talk to him and see how he feels about it.”
“I couldn’t ask for more. Thank you, Levi.”
“You’re welcome, General.”
“Can you please call me Jakub? After all, we’re practically family.”
