He stared at the television disinterestedly and finished his beer. He walked to the kitchen for another one. The trash can barely held the empty bottle and the refrigerator looked as if half its contents should be discarded with the garbage. The dishes were washed, but that was the only positive thing Joe could say. As he stepped back into the den, he was greeted by two women with plastic shopping bags. They both smiled their approval of him being there. It made him feel good.
“So where’s Rick?” Linda asked, looking around the den. “He had better hurry.” She rushed down the hall.
Marjorie smiled pleasantly at Joe. “I’m glad you made it. I didn’t really expect you to.”
“Wouldn’t have missed it,” he smiled back. She blushed.
“So, how was the shopping?”
“Oh, we just took Rick’s gifts back. He’s from the school of one size fits all.”
“You mean it doesn’t?”
“Men! With a pair of scissors and some rope, you can make anything fit.”
“But of course.”
“Not to change the subject, but have you been hassled by the media yet?”
“No, not so far.”
“Well, you will. My office and Rick’s chief will issue a statement Monday at eleven o’clock and at least one television station has your name. So when you go home tonight, don’t be surprised if you’re greeted by a camera.”
“Thanks for the warning. Anything I should or shouldn’t say?”
“Well, that’s pretty much up to you, but basically, be consistent with what you’ve told us. They’ll hit you from every angle possible. One reporter may come from one direction, another from a totally different angle, probably the furthest thing from your mind.”
“I’m not sure what you mean. It only happened one way.”
“Well, yes, that’s true, but this is big news and reporters will milk the situation for all the exposure they can. It’s their chance to get national recognition, bigger jobs, and more money. They’ll make you a hero, the cops the slackers. The guy you wasted was tied up with drugs and alcohol. That will bring out even more special interest groups. There will be plenty of racial tension.”
“Sounds like Rick will be under the gun?”
“Yeah, and all the law enforcement personnel. But there’s nothing anybody can do. You’re going to have your hands full. Try to keep on the good side of the press or they’ll turn on you.”
“Why would they?”
“Something to write about.”
“Well, if in doubt, I’ll refer everything to you.”
“Thanks, but I’ll be having problems of my own.”
“And what will they be?”
“Well, for one, there will be pressure to prosecute you.”
“Me?” He sincerely was surprised. He had thought he had covered his trail.
“Well, you shot an unarmed man.”
“What was I supposed to do?” He raised his voice defensively. He suddenly realized he was falling into his own lie. After all, he had killed three men. Ironically, the only one he was accused of killing really was armed, but under the circumstances, it appeared he had dropped his gun. It truly was self-defense, not that it mattered to Joe Cooper.
“Don’t worry, nobody will take it seriously except the man’s family. If we prosecuted you, we would be crucified.”
“Well, I should hope so.”
Marjorie laughed, touching Joe’s forearm. “I’m sorry. I’m really not trying to scare you, just preparing you for any craziness that might happen. Who knows, it may go really smooth and everything will get back to normal… but I wouldn’t count on it.”
“Thanks for the warning. I think I’ll go back home and hide under the bed.”
“That may be a good idea for later, but for now, let’s all relax and go to Judy’s party.”
“Just what is this party?”
“Judy is a young, up-and-coming defense attorney. She gives a few parties a year, mostly to draw attention to and promote herself. It seems to work. She drives a Mercedes, has a nice house, great clothes, and all without any outside help, except for a nice inheritance.”
“Are you envious?”
“A little, but not much. She’s a real bitch in court and acts so coy outside.”
“She struck me as a real tease.”
“Well, I’m not her biggest fan. Let’s put it that way.”
They were interrupted by Rick and Linda’s re-entry. “Let’s go, everybody. We can go in Marjorie’s Continental. Is that OK, Marj?”
“Sure!”
Joe wondered who was watching the kids. Nobody said anything; they just left. He felt uneasy. Something he would not allow himself to dwell on. But the feeling was there nonetheless.
CHAPTER 13
Pam arrived at work before six. She had hoped Joe would be there. She had not heard from him since the prior afternoon. He had said he would be back later that night. Perhaps he was too tired. After all he had been through, that was to be expected. She hoped there had been no problems with the police. Still, she felt angry, her ego damaged. She had felt important around him, a belonging. He was intelligent. He drank, but at least he wasn’t consumed by drugs. The bottom line: she was disappointed. She liked Joe and it was possible he was gone, not to return. Her hopes and dreams dashed again. Perhaps he would show up later. She hoped he would.
* * *
The Continental pulled into the parking lot of the Hilton. Joe had thought the party was to be at Judy’s house. The foursome walked through the lobby, past the bar, and into an already busy banquet room. They worked their way through greetings and introductions until they were able to find an empty table. Joe sat beside Marjorie, feeling strangely important and somewhat vulnerable. A room full of legal personalities and himself, quite illegal. The entire room could be guilty of harboring a criminal, strangely humorous for someone in his unique position.
“What’s so funny?” Marjorie chuckled at Joe.
Joe hadn’t realized his inner emotions had peered into vision. He silently reprimanded himself. “I thought the holidays were going to be boring.”
“No such luck, huh?” answered Marjorie.
“It could have been a lot worse.”
“Of course, you could have been shot, God forbid.” She touched his forearm.
Hopkins interrupted. “Marjorie, look who’s here.” He nodded toward the bar. “Davis Wilson, Channel 5’s big guy.”
Linda was not concerned, but both Hopkins and Marjorie were a bit tense.
“What’s the deal?” Joe asked.
“If anybody knows you were involved, it’s him. And if he knows you’re here, especially with us, he’ll have a field day.”
“Should I not be here?”
“What do you think, Rick?”
“He’s not wanted for anything. Besides, Judy invited him, remember?”
They all snickered, even Linda.
“Let’s stay a sufficient amount of time, then duck out. What do you think?” Marjorie suggested.
Rick agreed.
“Hey, I’m with you guys,” Joe said.
Linda shrugged. “As long as we do something, I don’t care where we go.”
“We’ll do something,” Hopkins reassured. He knew where he wanted to go, if Marjorie didn’t object. He wondered if she would. First, a few drinks. “So why aren’t you wearing my gifts?”
Marjorie looked at Linda.
“They were all picked over, hon. Couldn’t find anything near as nice as what you had gotten us.” She turned on the charm.
Rick smiled. “They were nice, weren’t they?”
“Absolutely, babe. Weren’t they, Marj?”
“Very nice, Rick. If only we hadn’t put on so much weight. I’m embarrassed.”
“Me too!”
“I can’t tell you’ve put on any weight at all. You both look the same to me.”
“You’re just being nice. None of my clothes fit anymore. Do yours, Linda?”
&nb
sp; “No, nothing.”
A waiter brought drinks, white wine for the ladies, and screwdrivers for the men.
“Well, what did you do?”
“About what, hon?”
“The clothes.”
“Well, we got our money back. Guess we’ll look elsewhere.”
“Probably a better time to buy after Christmas?” He looked for agreement.
“Much better. Isn’t it, Marjorie?”
“Absolutely. In fact, I think I’ll do a little extra shopping just to save some money.”
“I don’t blame you a bit. It’s the smart thing to do.”
Rick was studying the situation.
“Why don’t you do the same thing, Linda? We could take the boys to the movies next week and shop for a few hours,” Marjorie said.
“I guess I better not. I can get by for a few months.”
“But the prices will be so much higher. You won’t be able to get near as much.”
Hopkins had a great idea. “Babe, why don’t you go with her? You do need the clothes and, like you said, it’ll save money in the long run.”
“Well, I don’t know…”
“Go ahead.”
“I really shouldn’t.”
“Don’t be so tight. Besides, the boys are badgering me about some movie.”
“Well, if you insist.” She smiled.
Marjorie turned her head to keep from laughing out loud.
“I insist. The subject is closed.” He looked at Joe. “Order us some drinks. I’ve got to shake hands with the governor.”
Joe looked at the smiling women. “You two are awful.”
“Awful? Why, whatever do you mean, Mr. Cooper?” Linda said in her best southern drawl.
“How long did it take you two to come up with that plan?”
Marjorie laughed. “Rick isn’t as gullible as he seems. He’s a sly, old detective. He’s got something on his mind.”
“Yeah, and we’ll find out pretty soon. I already have a good idea.”
“Hunting at Ginger’s?” Marjorie frowned.
“You know it.”
“Who’s Ginger?”
Linda looked at Marjorie. Both grew solemn.
“He’s Rick’s best friend,” Linda quickly spoke.
“Not very popular with you two, though?”
“It’s not that. We love Ginger. It’s just…”
“What Linda is trying not to say is that I used to date Ginger. But that was in the past. We’re all friends now.”
“Sorry I asked.”
“It’s no big deal, really.” Marjorie looked away and saw Judy coming toward their table.
Linda turned to look. “No thanks to her.”
“The plot thickens,” Cooper said.
“Marj, Linda, don’t you two look nice. Leave the sergeant at home?”
“No, he’s here,” Linda said with a veil of a smile.
“Who’s your good-looking friend, Marj?”
“Joe, this is Judy Evans.”
“Glad to meet you, Miss Evans.” He stood and extended his hand.
“Quite the gentleman, Marj. Much different from our old friend.”
Marjorie turned her head. Linda could see her face redden.
“You were here at the bar!” Linda remembered.
“Yes, that’s where I met these guys. And you were courteous enough to invite me to your party.”
“I did?”
“You don’t remember? Maybe I was mistaken. Should I leave?”
“Oh, no, of course not. The more, the merrier. Enjoy yourself. I’ll see you guys a little later. I must mingle.” She excused herself.
“Well, Marj, the boy’s got talent,” Linda said.
Hopkins returned.
“Just missed Madame Judy.”
“Damn the bad luck.” He snapped his fingers.
“What did she have to say?”
“Typical Judy, but our boy here kept her on her toes.”
“Good job, Joe. What did you do?”
“He thanked Judy for inviting him.”
“Well done. Now if we can avoid Wilson for an hour, we’ll slide out of here.”
“Maybe we’re taking the wrong approach here,” suggested Cooper.
“What do you mean?” asked Hopkins.
“Instead of avoiding the press, introduce me to them. They’re going to find out, and it would be better up front from you guys rather than appearing like you’re trying to keep something secret.”
“He may have a point there,” Marjorie said, raising her eyebrows.
“Possibly. You know, it might take a little of the heat off the police. My boss would like that.”
“Let’s go for it.”
“Okay, first we’ll tell Judy. Keep her on our side. Then call Mr. Wilson over, a few pleasantries, a few drinks, and leave separately. Joe goes first, we field a few questions, then ease out and go review our results.”
“Sounds good,” said Marjorie.
“Yeah,” chimed in Joe, who was finding the entire situation exhilarating. Tempting fate, taunting the opposition. What a high.
They looked at Linda. “Hey, I just want to go shopping.”
“Well, Marj, call Judy over here.”
“You’ve got to be kidding. She’s your department.”
“Okay, let me finish my drink.”
They were all quiet for a few minutes, looking around at the gathering of people chatting and drinking. The waiters were passing out hors d’oeuvres and preparing the buffet.
“Don’t forget, we have to eat,” reminded Linda.
“No wonder you’ve gained weight. That’s all you think about.” Hopkins shook his head.
Linda and Marjorie laughed at each other. Joe Cooper managed a grin. Rick raised his hand and motioned toward Judy. She smiled and waved, then realizing he wanted her presence, excused herself from a few of her admirers. She had a swagger about her, hips that Cooper didn’t equate with a lawyer.
“What’s going on, Rick? Enjoying yourself?”
“Yes, very much. Sit down and have a drink with us. We want to talk with you for a minute.”
“Sure.” Her curiosity was rising.
“You’ve met Joe Cooper,” he pointed.
“Of course. I invited him to the party, remember?”
“Yes, but there are a few things you’re not aware of that we feel you should know.”
“My goodness, sounds mysterious. Why didn’t you tell me, Marjorie?”
“I was waiting for Rick, and you dashed off so quickly. Besides, it’s best that Rick explain his case. Just a courtesy to you so you won’t be in the dark.”
“Well, for God’s sake, tell me.”
“All right! You’re aware of the liquor store murder the other night?”
“Of course. A bystander shot the murderer, rumor has it.”
“Well, this is the bystander.”
“My Lord.” She looked at Joe. He neither smiled nor frowned. “This is quite a surprise.”
“When you invited him the other night, we had just met him. We thought you should know. The chief is out of town and we’re not releasing an official statement until Monday, but some of the media have gotten his name. So who knows what else they know. With Davis here, we thought we would introduce him. We don’t want anything to come up later about us all being here together. At the same time, Joe wants to avoid a lot of publicity. He’s had a rough couple days.”
“I can imagine. And don’t worry. He’s my guest. I had just assumed he was your date, Marjorie, but now I find out he’s eligible. That’s good to know. I’m glad you confided in me. I’ll handle everything from here. Let me get Davis. I’ll be right back.”
“God, I hate her,” said Marj.
“She’ll handle it from here. Bitch! We just simply shouldn’t have come. She’ll make you her item. I’m afraid we sold you out, Joe. Sorry.” Hopkins looked at Joe.
“It’s not your fault. I’m the one who wanted to come.”
“Hey, I’m having more fun than you know,” Joe said and meant every word of it.
Linda shook her head.
“What is it?” Marj asked.
“‘Now I find out he’s eligible,’” she mocked. “Like it would have mattered.”
“Never has before.” Marj looked away from everybody.
“‘I’ll handle everything from here,’” Linda continued to mock. “I just bet she will.”
“Here she comes with Wilson. Careful,” cautioned Hopkins.
“Wilson, you know Hopkins, and of course our esteemed assistant DA.”
“Of course.”
Marjorie steamed.
“This is Rick’s wife, Linda.” Judy gestured.
“Linda and I have met several times at muscular dystrophy functions. Good to see you, Linda.”
Linda smiled a polite hello. Davis Wilson had always been a tireless volunteer for MD. He actively had gone far beyond the annual telethon. She had heard he had a younger brother who was afflicted, but he had never made it public knowledge.
“This is Joe Cooper. He’s a guest of mine.”
“Joe Cooper?” He turned to Judy.
“Yes, he’s the same Joe Cooper,” Judy assured him. The two men shook hands.
“Well, this is quite a surprise.” Davis Wilson pulled a chair from an adjoining table. “We’ve been looking for you without success and all of a sudden you’re introduced to me.” Wilson looked around at the small group. “Is there any significance that you’re sitting with the police, the assistant DA, and a defense attorney?”
“I certainly hope not.” Joe laughed, which sparked chuckles from the rest.
“He’s fine with us,” assured Hopkins. “In fact, he saved everyone a lot of time and money.”
Judy cut him short. “Davis, we wanted to give you first crack at an exclusive. But we would like to avoid a landslide of reporters wreaking havoc on our friend.”
“And another thing—” again, Rick was cut short.
“What Rick is worried about is, could you keep this hush-hush until they make an official statement Monday?”
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