Killmore

by Martha Sweeney

  We shake hands as I introduce Paul and myself.

  “How long are you boys in town for?” Trudy questions.

  “We just moved in just over a week ago,” I share. “We’re not tourists, if that’s what you mean.”

  “Wonderful,” she answers. “There’s plenty of time for you boys to run into Laurie to sing her praises to her yourselves.”

  “Doesn’t she usually come in at the beginning of the week, mama?” Marcus asks.

  “Usually,” Trudy confirms. “Taking care of somethings in the office.”

  “When is that?” Paul inquires.

  “You boys could stop in Monday. Just ask for me when you get in and then I can confirm if she’s here or not,” Trudy offers. “Laurie should be happy to speak with you, especially since you’re townies now.”

  “Wonderful,” Paul returns.

  “So, what do you two do?” Trudy pries respectfully.

  “I’m a retired architect,” Paul answers. “Aiden here is my son. He helps take care of me since I’m getting older…had a few injuries from falling off a few roofs in my day if you know what I mean.”

  “I thought architects only design the home?” Marcus asks.

  “The good ones get their hands dirty too,” Paul returns with a wink.

  “Oh,” Marcus says. “Makes sense.”

  “Where did you live before?” inquires Jacob.

  “Cali,” I answer.

  “As in California?” Marcus asks.

  “That’s the one,” I confirm, even though it’s a lie.

  “Why would you want to move here?” Jacob searches.

  “It’s quieter,” Paul shares. “Hollywood and all that is California is for the young…I’m not so young anymore.”

  “You two don’t look that old,” Trudy comments with a smile.

  “He isn’t,” Paul confirms. “But, I am. Still young at heart…which gets me into trouble sometimes.”

  “How long have you worked for Laurie?” I search.

  “It’s going on six and a half years,” Trudy answers.

  “Mama’s the best cook in town,” Jacob announces happily.

  “I bet she is,” I agree. “We can’t help coming in here.”

  “Learned a lot from my mama,” Trudy shares.

  “But, you went to school for it,” Jacob reminds.

  “That I did,” Trudy confirms. “But, there are somethings a class can’t teach you.”

  “Like what?” Marcus inspects.

  “Secret ingredients,” Trudy offers with a widening smile.

  “I bet that’s why Laurie keeps you on,” Paul praises.

  “Part of it,” Trudy agrees confidently.

  We continue to chat, mostly incidental topics, before excusing ourselves to go and let Trudy and her sons to eat without distraction. As we leave the restaurant and get into our car, Paul spots Laurie going into what looks like an apartment over the veterinary office. At first, I don’t see her until we cross the street. I notice the long stairway on the side of the building. A good looking gentleman answers the door, excited to see Laurie. Once the door is shut, Paul and I walk around the block, checking out paths and alleyways to see if we can make our way around to the back of the building.

  A few minutes later, we manage to get a decent view of the apartment from around back. The lights are low, but the shadows of two bodies are easily seen. A sinking feeling enters my stomach at the sight of her with him. Their bodies are pressed against each others, kissing as they undress.

  I’ve got to use this to my advantage to stay focused on the mission at hand. She’s got a boyfriend. There’s no time to get distracted.

  Fourteen - Laurie

  It’s eight in the morning, and I’m already at the restaurant, hoping to get what needs to be done finished so I can get back home and avoid the now ever-present tourists who plague our town. I swear there’s at least a hundred more than last year.

  “Hey, Laurie,” Trudy calls right as I’m on the last order form for inventory.

  “Hey, what?” I call over my shoulder, not looking back.

  “There are a couple of customers who want to talk to you about the food,” she informs.

  “What about it?” I inquire.

  “Don’t know,” she answers.

  I turn and find her trying to hide a smile. “It better not be Codie,” I whine.

  “Codie is singular,” she returns. “I said they…as in plural.”

  “Tell them I’ll be right out,” I inform. “I’m almost done.”

  “Will do,” she answers bouncing back into the kitchen.

  Ten minutes later, I grab my stuff and the dogs and make my way through the kitchen and out to the front of the restaurant. The place is packed with every table and barstool filled. As my eyes adjust to the swarm of bodies, Trudy directs me to the end of the bar closest to the door.

  “Here they are,” Trudy presents as two men spin and face me.

  I wouldn’t have recognized them right away since they’re both wearing hats. Taking a deep breath, not wanting Trudy to know that I’ve already met these men, in the not so best of ways the other day, I say, “Hi. How can I help you?”

  “You’re the owner?” Paul checks.

  “Yes,” Trudy confirms for me, not letting me speak.

  I offer a fake smile.

  “I’m Paul and this is my son, Aiden,” Paul greets, reaching his hand forward.

  My fake smile returns, but I don’t touch him.

  “Shake the man’s hand,” Trudy whispers through a closed jaw.

  Damn it — damn her — damn them.

  Taking Paul’s hand, I return, "Yes. I’m the owner. What can I do for you?”

  “We just wanted to let you know we’re new in town and love the food,” Paul answers.

  “Great,” I reply, trying to hide my distaste.

  “I told these men that their next meal is on us since they’re fellow townies now,” Trudy mentions. “It is tradition.”

  “Yes, of course,” I agree even though I feel the complete opposite. My glare burns at them through my sunglasses, waiting for them to say anything in front of Trudy about our little run-in the other day.

  “Maybe you ladies could join us for that meal,” Aiden comments. “If it’s not too much of a bother?”

  Right as I’m about to reply, Trudy jumps in, “Not at all. We’d be happy to, especially since you gentlemen and I didn’t get to discuss much the other day.”

  “The other day?” I inspect.

  “I brought the boys in for dinner and we ended up sitting right next to them,” Trudy explains. “We were able to chat a little before they had to leave and that’s how I found out about them moving into town.”

  “What day works best for you ladies?” Paul inquires. “We don’t want to bother you if things are hectic with the restaurant and all.”

  “Jacob has his soccer game tonight, so we can do it afterward or tomorrow if that works with you,” Trudy shares.

  “How do you know I’m not busy?” I interject.

  “You’ll be with us tonight as you always are for his games,” Trudy says with a smile.

  “And, tomorrow night?” I press.

  “If you have plans with Dr. Codie, then have him tag along,” she insists.

  “Tonight,” I return sharply. “Tonight would be fine.”

  “If you two don’t have anything to do, why don’t you join us for the game,” Trudy mentions. “Jacob’s team will be on field two at the park.”

  “That would be great,” Paul returns. “What time?”

  “The game starts at three-thirty, right after school. It’s the last one before their spring break,” Trudy informs. “The game will be about an hour and a half or two, and then we’ll come right here for dinner afterward. We have extra chairs and a blanket, so just bring yourselves.”

  “Great,” Paul and Aiden reply.

  “Great,” I repeat with fake excitement in my voice. “I’ve got to go. I’
ll see you all later.” I head for the door, not letting anyone to keep me longer.

  The dogs and I make our way over to visit with Esther for the rest of the day until it’s time for Jacob’s game. The dogs wait patiently to get into the truck after I assist Esther in to join us. She and Gerald always go to any activities Marcus or Jacob are in, especially if it’s in town.

  As the game commences, Trudy, Esther, Gerald, and Marcus are sitting in the lounge chairs. The dogs rest on the blanket at my left while I stand. I’ve never been one to really sit down in public, especially when my back isn’t to something solid and I know no one can come up from behind me. Even though I have the dogs for warning and protection, I still don’t like having my back exposed.

  “Hey, everyone,” Dr. Codie greets to my left.

  I watch Codie’s movements from my peripheral vision as I stay focused on Jacob.

  Codie exchanges hugs with everyone and moves toward me eagerly.

  “Go, Jacob,” I cheer as he gets a hold of the ball and moves forward toward the goal. The action on the field is perfect timing for me to evade Codie’s public displays of affection. He just tried to kiss me on the cheek while wrapping his arm around my waist.

  “Hey, glad you could make it,” Trudy says a few minutes later as the game continues and Codie stays standing a foot or two to my right.

  I turn and see Aiden and Paul walking up to us and I feel Codie standing closer to me. Trudy makes introductions to Esther and Gerald since they’ve already met Marcus. Marcus says hello, but returns his attention back to finishing The Great Gatsby. Then, Trudy introduces Aiden and Paul to Codie. I notice a more male dominance thing from Codie. I need to put him in his place sooner than later.

  “Good to see you,” I greet, shaking Aiden’s and Paul’s hands.

  “Likewise,” returns Paul. “Which number is Jacob?”

  “Twenty-three,” Trudy answers sweetly.

  I roll my eyes and then keep them focused on the field. Regardless of his number, Jacob would easily be spotted out of everyone. They met the other night and Jacob’s the only darker skinned boy playing. I stay quiet, listening in to the conversations around me as the game progresses. Codie tries to slip an arm around my waist a few times, but I’m able to deflect it, pretending I need a drink, use the bathroom or some other task that allows me to move away. Dr. Derek joins us too and ends up spending most of his time chatting with everyone.

  By six, we’re all sitting down in the outside patio of the restaurant that is to the left of the building. I continue to hide behind my sunglasses as the sun sets and everyone around the table chats freely. I continue to watch the two new townies, speculating as to what they need my help. Codie rests his arm on the back of my chair several times throughout the meal. I can’t believe he feels intimidated.

  Conversations are light and friendly amongst everyone as I sit quietly and listen. On occasion, Trudy or Esther try to pull me in with a question. I see what they’re trying to do, so I answer as minimally as possible. Everyone stays later than we usually do, even with it being a school night for the boys.

  Once Gerald and Esther leave, the dogs and I head home immediately afterward, wanting to avoid the grown men in attendance — especially Codie. There’s no need to feed his ego, making him think he can have any kind of a claim on me. Despite my reservation as to what and why Paul and Aiden are in town, my body tingles at the thought of having a one-night stand with Mr. Hotstuff before turning down their request to help them with whatever it is they want. I remind myself to focus, needing to know why they’re here and why they want my help? It doesn’t make sense. Becky would have mentioned something when we spoke, wouldn’t she? She hasn’t returned my initial text inquiring about them which concerns me.

  Fifteen - Aiden

  The next day, Paul and I head to the gun range, needing to let out some steam since our mission is temporarily on hold. Paul and I have been debating as to how and when to approach Laurie. We don’t want to corner her, let alone give her the opportunity to make good on her threat to shoot either one of us. I don’t doubt she’d actually do it.

  As we make our way back toward one of the private ranges, I catch a glimpse of Laurie and Marcus out of the corner of my eye. My body freezes as I watch her lift the gun, aim, and fire several rounds, finding myself aroused at the way she handles the weapon so confidently.

  “What are you doing?” Paul’s voice calls faintly.

  “Laurie,” I barely mumble as my eyes drift down her body to her ass.

  “What?!” Paul returns. “Oh. Good. Looks like it’ll be sooner rather than later for us to talk to her.”

  “Not with the kid,” I state.

  “I’m sure you can pull her aside,” he comments. “You do have a way with women.”

  I snort my response as my eyes continue to stare at Laurie’s curves. She’s sexy, especially when she’s wielding a gun. There’s something about the way she commands and controls the power of a weapon that is arousing.

  Laurie suddenly turns and sees me watching. Her eyes narrow behind the goggles she’s wearing before her head snaps back around to watch Marcus take his turn. Paul moves on to our area while I continue to just watch Marcus and Laurie. I’m compelled to watch her. Laurie continues to pay attention to instructing Marcus, not once turning to look at me. She seems a little startled to find me still standing in the same place.

  “Hey, Aiden,” Marcus greets when he exits the door. “What are you doing here?”

  “Practicing,” I answer. “You’re looking pretty good out there.”

  “Thanks,” Marcus accepts. “It’s only my second time.”

  “Looks like you’ve got a good teacher,” I commend as Laurie joins us in the hallway.

  “Why don’t you grab a snack on the way back from the restroom,” Laurie instructs to Marcus, handing him some money from her pocket.

  “Cool,” Marcus returns, walking away.

  “What the hell do you want?” Laurie sneers.

  “Just admiring a good shooter,” I reply with a grin.

  She studies me but doesn’t comment.

  “We need to talk to you,” I remind.

  “I already gave you my answer,” she snips.

  “No,” I chuckle. “You just threatened to shoot us.”

  “Which was my answer,” she returns. Her eyes dart down the hall past me.

  I turn to look over my shoulder, figuring that she must be checking if anyone is coming. “We just need to ask you a few questions,” I say.

  “About what?” she questions sharply. “What haven't I already answered for all of you.”

  “We haven’t asked anything,” I remind.

  “I told you all that I’m done and want to be fucking left alone. If you have anything you want to talk about, talk to Becky.”

  “Who’s Becky?” Paul inquires, walking up to us.

  “Why the fuck don’t you all communicate?” Laurie snaps.

  “About what?” Paul and I ask at the same time.

  “Oh, my God. You’re both fucking dense. You’re both so fucking stupid. Go bother someone else,” she directs through gritted teeth. “Hey, Marcus. What did you find?”

  “Just some chips,” Marcus answers.

  They head back into their range and Laurie locks the door to make sure we don’t join them.

  Why was she acting so weird? Who is Becky?

  Paul and I head into our range to start shooting, remaining quiet the entire time. At some point, we make a call into the department to get some information and we’re given the run around for at least twenty minutes. During the drive back to town, I get a call.

  “You need to stop asking questions,” a woman’s voice instructs.

  “Excuse me?” I inquire, not expecting her words.

  “You heard me,” she states.

  “We just need some information on a Laurie Breitsprecher,” I remind. “We can’t find anything on her in the system.”

  “I said, stop as
king questions,” she pushes.

  “We just need some information….”

  “Move on,” she barks.

  “Why didn’t she show up in the system?” I search.

  “Don’t worry about it,” she states. “Find a different way in.”

  “But….”

  The phone clicks off before I get a chance to say anything further.

  “What was that?” Paul asks.

  “Someone from the agency…I think,” I share.

  “What do you mean, you think?”

  “She said find a different route,” I mention.

  “What?”

  “Find a different way in is what she said,” I explain.

  “What? Why?”

  “She told me to stop asking questions about Laurie and….”

  “Shit!” Paul huffs.

  “What?” I ask.

  Paul just looks at me.

  “What?”

  “Give me the phone,” Paul instructs.

  “Why?”

  Paul glares at me.

  “Fine,” I sigh, handing him the cell.

  “She’s probably a hidden witness,” Paul states, putting the phone up to his ear.

  “What? Why?”

  I know Paul and I have been undercover, but when we looked stuff up in the system, there would have been mention of a resident who is in protective custody —unless — Holy shit! There are only two reasons why we can’t find anything about Laurie. She’d be hidden in the system to everyone, except those who have a really high level clearance, or not in it all, if she’s a high value asset. Who is she? What does she know?

  Sixteen - Laurie

  The past few days have been surprisingly quiet since the run-in with Paul and Aiden at the range. I purposefully said a few things to get them to leave me alone. I shouldn’t be shocked that they didn’t know anything and kept pushing. The government has major communication issues among other things.

  Becky did text. All the message said was hold tight.

  As I sit down for dinner, my house system alerts me of visitors. I check the computer screen and see an all too familiar, black SUV pulling into my driveway. The night sky crackles with lightening from a typical Spring storm as I open the door to greet her. Anger boils inside me when I see her annoying partner, Bob, flanked by two others.