Killer Career

by Mandel, Morgan

  After introducing herself and receiving a tepid response, Julie found a name tag, along with pen and notebook by one of the black leather seats.

  The chandelier sparkled innocently, shedding its glow over the participants as well as the hazy grayish-blue pattern of the walls. Julie’s writer’s mind pictured the lights flickering and the chandelier crashing down onto someone’s head. But whose? There were so many candidates in such an unfriendly bunch.

  Two more women filed in, one blue haired in a rayon type pantsuit, the other a twenty-something dishwater blonde in jeans and tee shirt, hardly an outfit to make a good impression. A large-boned man with a prominent nose and jovial laugh stepped inside, followed by a short, slight, soft-spoken one. The two were the only males in the bunch.

  A hush fell over the room. The Great Mystery Writer entered and took his place at the head of the table.

  “Pick up your pen and get started. I’d like a one page description of what you did yesterday. I’ll return in ten minutes.”

  He swung open the door and disappeared, leaving more than one mouth gaping.

  This man meant business. She better get started. Julie remembered the day all too well since it had been identical to so many others. It didn’t take long to jot down her sorry description.

  Jensen returned and fastened his eyes on her. “Read yours.”

  Good grief, nothing like being the first one. If only her report were more exciting.

  She described trekking from the office to the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission for a trial, then trudging back to the office, where she dictated letters to her administrative assistant. That done, she mulled over some cases with her partner, grabbed a late lunch, answered telephone calls and prepared three proposed decisions. That evening, instead of relaxing, she grabbed a file from her black leather catalog case and reviewed medical reports for an upcoming hearing.

  “Is that a typical day,” he asked.

  She nodded.

  “Other than legal work, what do you write?”

  “I’ve started a thriller, but I don’t have time to finish it.” Frustration welled inside of her.

  Jensen pounded his fist on the table. “You must write every day. Nothing should stand in your way.”

  “That’s impossible. I have a law firm to run.”

  “To hell with your law firm. Quit it. Sell it. Or you won’t be a writer.”

  She’d worked too hard for her livelihood to be dismissed that easily.

  “I make good money at what I do. I live in the real world, not dreamland. I can’t take off on a writing sabbatical whenever I please. My partner, as well as my clients, need me.”

  His eyes took on a fanatical gleam. “Your partner can find another partner. They can handle the precious clients.”

  Julie bit her lip and glared. “I made a commitment. I’ll work things out somehow, even if I have to get up early and write.”

  “That won’t get you anywhere. You’re fooling yourself.”

  With a dismissive look, he turned from Julie and queried the gray haired woman next to her. “And what about you, ma’am, do you have what it takes? Are you gutsy enough to sacrifice everything and devote yourself to writing? Or do you also have commitments you’re not willing to let go?”

  Though he was speaking to the other woman, he seemed to be addressing Julie. A slow burn gathered in her throat. If today was an example of his remaining workshops, she wanted no part of them.

  She listened as Jensen reviewed the other participants’ accountings. Though many of them said they didn’t have time to write each day, with none had he been as cutting as with her. Why had he singled her out?

  After he finished the round, Jensen reviewed various research methods and listed favorite websites and library resources. He instructed them to be vigilant about the sights, smells and sounds of everyday living and incorporate them into their novels to engage all the senses.

  Staring straight at Julie, he concluded, “I want you to examine your commitment. To be a writer, nothing must stand in your way.”

  The two hour session flew by. Afterward, a few of the participants approached Jensen.

  He shooed them away, saying, “You’ll learn it all soon enough.”

  Julie stood up.

  “Ms. McGuire, I’d like a word with you.”

  “Fine.” Unflinching, she stared at him. If he was looking for a battle, he’d get one.

  “Think over your hostile reaction. You have a conflict to resolve. I didn’t create it.”

  He swept out of the room before she could form a response. Besides, what could she say that wasn’t a lie? He’d seen past her peripheral anger and zoned in on her true dilemma. She’d wedged herself into a no-win situation and needed a way out. She’d worked hard to build up the law firm, with Dade beside her each step of the way. How could she reject him to follow a dream?

  How could she not? In her heart she knew Jensen was right. This was her passion and she craved to fulfill it. Unfortunately, by doing so, she’d also be making the ultimate sacrifice.

  Julie sighed, feeling like a traitor. She’d made promises she couldn’t keep. Soon she’d hurt someone dear.

  * * *

  It was already Friday morning, almost a week since she’d made her decision. She’d put off what she had to do long enough. Swallowing hard, Julie approached Dade’s office.

  “I need to talk to you.”

  Dade glanced up unsuspectingly from the pile of work on his desk. “Sure. What’s up?”

  Julie swallowed hard. She couldn’t get through this standing up. Her legs already wanted to buckle. Instead of grabbing her usual seat beside his desk, she sat down gingerly in one of the client chairs in front of the desk. Already she felt like an outsider.

  How to begin? How to tell her dear friend that the dream they’d shared for so long wasn’t hers anymore? They’d grown up in poverty. When they were school children and she’d tried to escape her life by writing fantasies of something better, he’d convinced her to ignore her make believe world and follow a tangible plan to escape the littered sidewalks and decaying buildings around her.

  She’d been desperate for a better life. Dade seemed to know the answer. What he’d suggested had made sense to her then. She couldn’t kid herself any longer. Financial security was fine, but right now she needed more.

  “It can’t be that bad. What gives?”

  “I hate to do this to you, but I have to.”

  “Do what?”

  Julie bit her lip. Once she divulged her secret, everything would be different. Clearing her throat, she stalled. This was harder than she’d imagined. Gathering up her courage, she said in almost a whisper, “I have to leave the firm.”

  It was done. She’d finally said what she’d rehearsed a million times in her mind.

  He lifted his eyebrows. “You’re what? Why would you do that?”

  “Dade, I’m sorry, but I can’t take this anymore.”

  “Aren’t we making enough money?”

  “Of course we are. It’s not that.”

  He shook his head slowly. “All of a sudden this isn’t enough?”

  Before she could reply, he laid his palms on the desk and leaned forward. “It’s the mystery writer, isn’t it? A guy you’ve seen only twice has convinced you to pitch everything you’ve worked for. Damn it, Julie, I thought you had more sense.”

  She stuck her chin up. “He’s not the reason. You know I’ve always wanted to write ever since we were kids. I’ve set some money aside, so now I can.”

  “Sure, tell yourself that.”

  Julie gritted her teeth. “It’s the truth. I’m doing this for myself. And I won’t leave you in the lurch. I can stay for six months, if you need me.”

  He shook his head again. “You do a bang-up job. You’ve got a great reputation. Clients always ask for you. Can’t you write in your spare time?”

  “What spare time? I’m tired of being torn between what I want and what I have to
do and not doing justice to either one of them. I’ve made up my mind. Writing’s my choice.”

  “You’re crazy. You don’t know what you’re doing.”

  “Because I want something different than you, that makes me crazy?” ”

  “It’s a dumb move, Julie. I thought you were smarter.”

  “So now I’m stupid. You’re welcome to your opinion.”

  Her insides felt raw and bleeding as if she’d swallowed a huge chunk of glass. She’d hurt Dade, but he’d hurt her too. She turned and rushed from his office before he could see how upset she was.

  Julie got as far as the hallway before the tears fell. How could he have said those things? He was supposed to be her friend.

  It was always the money with him. He’d never rise above his beginnings. He’d always be the kid who didn’t have enough.

  Well, she’d followed him before, but not anymore. Now it was her turn.

  Chapter Five

  Dade frowned. Ever since his birthday when he’d read the autograph on his gift, he’d felt edgy. Julie’s announcement this morning topped it all off.

  She wouldn’t listen to reason and he couldn’t figure it out. He thought she had more sense. If he could, he’d cancel the plans for tonight, but they had someone else to consider besides themselves.

  He dialed out. “We’re ready, if you are.”

  “Okay,” Todd, his buddy from DePaul Law School, answered.

  The underlying note of desperation in his friend’s voice tore at Dade’s heart. Somehow he had to lighten Todd’s load. “Okay, dude, let’s roll. No overtime tonight.”

  “You didn’t say where we’re going.”

  “Dino’s, you know, on Clark Street.”

  Todd laughed. “That’s a good one. If you don’t mind, I’d rather not wait all night to eat. Now, where are we really going?”

  “I told you. Dino’s. No problem, I promise. Meet you there at five-thirty.”

  * * *

  “Ready, Julie,” Dade asked.

  “One second. I’m making a CD of my argument,” she said, not glancing up from her monitor.

  “That’s not necessary. Nora’s doing the backups tonight.”

  “I know, but I bring my own copies home just in case. I’m almost done.”

  Damn, she could be stubborn.

  “All set,” she said, exiting the program and turning off her computer.

  As she reached for her suit coat from the hanger in back of the door, the material of her silk blouse stretched and tightened around her breasts. Dade’s pants tightened in a certain area. Forget her, you horny bastard.

  “Meet you by the elevator. I need a word with Nora,” he said, fleeing the torment.

  His faithful assistant glanced up from behind her computer, making him feel guilty about leaving her alone while he and Julie went out to dinner.

  “Nora, if you want, you can take care of the backups Monday instead.”

  “No, really, I don’t mind. Mondays are busy anyway.”

  “Be sure to leave the office as soon as you get through. Okay?”

  She nodded.

  “Good night then, Nora. Have a good weekend.”

  “You too, Mr. Donovan.”

  Satisfied he’d done his best to be a good boss, Dade caught up with Julie down the hall.

  * * *

  Biting her lip, Nora set about making the backups. She didn’t mind doing the extras for Dade. Actually, she enjoyed showcasing her talents. It was only a matter of time before he realized she was so indispensable he couldn’t live without her.

  A squeak came from the direction of the front door. Had he come back to invite her to come with? No, that wouldn’t happen. Ms. High and Mighty Julie wouldn’t allow it.

  Then who could it be?

  She looked up and couldn’t believe her eyes. Here was an even better catch than Dade. Did she look all right? If only she could peek inside her compact mirror to check.

  “May I come in?” he said in a voice loud enough to penetrate the wooden door between them.

  “It won’t do you much good. I’m the only one here.” She’d never admit such a thing to a stranger, but this was no ordinary man.

  “Just a few minutes. That’s all I ask.”

  Strange. Why would he want to come inside?

  “Please, what’s the harm? I’ll dictate a short note and be on my way.”

  What was she afraid of? Someone like him didn’t need to commit burglaries and certainly not rapes.

  “Okay. It’s getting late, so make it fast.”

  She pressed the buzzer to admit him. He followed her into the reception area where she switched on the computer she’d turned off moments before.

  “You have lovely hair,” he said from behind her.

  A rush of pleasure filled her. At least someone appreciated her. She wouldn’t let on how flattered she was. Without turning, she said, “Shall we get down to business? What would you like typed on your note?”

  She heard a jangle, as if he were rummaging in his pocket.

  Before she could ponder what he was doing, he started dictating.

  “Is this for real? I can’t type that.” He couldn’t mean what he’d said.

  “Do it.” She felt the cold metal cylinder press against her back.

  A chill raced up and down her spine. Her usually adept fingers slipped and made errors, which she hastily corrected.

  When she was done, he nodded and swung her chair around.

  “Okay, now we’ll have a little party.”

  Her eyes widened.

  “No, not that kind. You could never compare. Where’s the lunchroom?”

  She had no choice but to lead him down the hall to the back of the office.

  “Turn on the tap. Fill up the sink.”

  That done, he marched her to the main office. “Okay, get to work. Here’s a screwdriver. I want all the hard drives out of the computers, then I want you to round up all the CDs, floppies, backup drives and zips. They’re taking a bath. Then we’ll have some real fun.”

  * * *

  As usual, Dino’s Restaurant was mobbed.

  Dade spotted Todd’s tall frame topped by his brownish blonde hair at the end of a waiting line that stretched down the block.

  “I had a feeling it would be like this. Want to try somewhere else,” Todd asked.

  “That’s not necessary. Follow me,” Dade said.

  Ignoring disapproving glares, Dade forged ahead and led Todd and Julie to the front of the line. He slipped his name to the maitre de and they were ushered into the restaurant.

  They were led to a prime booth on the side of the room. Todd’s gray eyes sparkled as he shot Dade a wide grin. “Why did I ever doubt you?”

  A short, black-haired man with a mustache limped over to greet them.

  Dade rose to shake his hand. “Hi, Dino.”

  “Paisan, sit down. Enjoy yourself.”

  “Dino Varelli, you remember my partner, Julie McGuire, and I’d like you to meet my buddy, Todd Lyons.”

  “A pleasure. Tell me, what do you make of the place, my friend?”

  “Great, Dino, just great. You did good.”

  “Listen, order what you want. It’s on the house. Salute,” Dino said, escaping before Dade could protest.

  The waiter took their orders, then scurried back with drinks, bread sticks and olive oil.

  “Okay, give. How do you know Dino,” Todd asked.

  Dade grabbed a bread stick from the basket. “He’s one of my clients. His settlement bought this joint, but he earned every penny. The poor guy went through hell. He’s still in pain.”

  “Dino had prior injuries. It wasn’t easy to convince the Arbitrator, but like with so many of his cases, Dade worked a miracle.”

  “What happened, Dade?”

  “A generator fell on Dino’s back when he was installing a steam pipe. He underwent four surgeries and is lucky to even walk. He’ll never be the same.”

  Todd gaze
d around the room, assessing the oil paintings, the pecan paneling and bronze sconces. “Another client saved through the auspices of the amazing Dade Donovan.”

  Dade waved his hand dismissively. “It’s what I get paid for. Anyway, that’s not why we’re here. How are you doing? Today’s got to be tough.”

  His friend nodded soberly, setting down his salad fork. “It’s no fun. Laura’s been gone for three years now, but it may as well be yesterday. I still have this raw feeling in here.” He tapped his chest in the direction of his heart.

  Julie placed her hand over Todd’s. “I can’t begin to imagine what you’ve gone through, but remember we’re here for you.”

  Dade nodded in agreement. Todd didn’t deserve losing his wife to a drunken driver. It hurt to see his buddy in pain. What could he say that hadn’t been said already, yet he had to try. “Laura was special. It should never have happened. And the creep that hit her should never have gotten off.”

  Todd’s gray eyes turned hard. “You’re right. Nothing can bring Laura back, but I’d give anything to wipe that jerk off the face of the earth.”

  “Not a pretty picture of our judicial system. Just one more case where money talked and the monster walked,” Dade said.

  Todd sighed. “I can’t begin to decipher why it happened to her of all people. She meant everything to me. I’m muddling along as best I can without her, but it’s not easy. Enough about me. What about you two? Anything new going on?”

  The guy had enough on his mind without Dade sounding off on his own problems. He searched for a suitable topic of conversation.

  Julie jumped in. “Business is great. We can barely keep up.”

  “Sure. My partner’s the original Wonder Woman. On Monday, she demolished Barabat’s defense and the rest of the week, she bulldozed some other defense attorneys.”

  Todd nodded. “Par for the course. What about you, Dade? Are you keeping up with her?”