“You talk as if what they did was wrong.”
“What they did was fine. They were happy before they were married and they still are.”
Soon Lucinda dropped off to sleep again. After awhile David went to the kitchen and fixed two cups of coffee. He returned to the living room calling out to Lucinda, “Here’s your coffee.” She awakened. “I prepared it exactly the way you like.”
“Thank you dear, I came across a young woman while I was out in L.A. and we went to a little coffee shop that was not for from our hotel. We talked and shared information about our personal dreams and aspirations. Believe it or not the coffee was superb.”
“If we are ever in Los Angeles, you’re going to have to take me there. When I get through with this cup of java, you may have to help me unwind.
After Lucinda finished her coffee, she said, “I’m going to bed. I have set up long enough.”
When David finally adjoined to their bedroom, he noticed Lucinda coming out of the bathroom. They made love until they reached a volcanic simultaneous climax. For the time being, David did not think about their marital problems, which stemmed from their financial woes.
Chapter 23
Brisband’s attempted murder case resumed. Ben Thomas was called to the witness stand. Judge Maxwell Tiller asked if he recognized anyone in attendance as the alleged perpetrator. He looked in the direction of Brisband, “Yes. Your Honor, he’s right there.”
“Will you kindly point him out to the jury?”
Ben pointed to Brisband.
Prosecuting Attorney Melvin Grande asked him to reveal where he remembered seeing Brisband.
“On the night the victim was shot, I saw him emerge from an alleyway as I was leaving work. He was wearing a long mask that drooped over his shoulders.”
Attorney Grande said, “Your Honor may I approach the bench.” After receiving permission, he presented a mask fitting the description of the one mentioned by Ben. His request to have it entered as evidence was honored by Judge Tiller.
Ben continued with his testimony, “The accused didn’t appear to notice me standing across the street as he removed his mask. However, he seemed to have caught a glimpse of me as he walked over to a dark blue BMW that he used to leave the scene.”
The prosecuting attorney asked Ben to give a more detailed description of the suspect.”
“I remember him as an elderly white man of medium height with a short hairstyle, a well shaped mustache that wore black pants, and a long sleeved light colored shirt.”
Grande showed the jurors a picture of a blue BMW that was registered to Brisband, which matched the one depicted by the witness. Defense Attorney Thad Jenkins tried to object to them seeing the photo citing it could not be proven as the same vehicle. However, the judge ruled to allow it since the defense had a chance to disqualify the photo prior to it being admitted for evidence.
The night of the shooting, a break-in occurred at a dwelling in Brisband’s neighborhood. The defense argued the same burglar may have taken the weapon from Brisband’s house and later returned it to frame him. The prosecution objected stating the circumstantial evidence should not be permissible. They contended Brisband only stated he had left his house open so he could use an intrusion as an alibi. The judge agreed with the prosecution and asked the jurors to disregard the allegation.”
The defense now blamed the shooting of Clyde Jeffreys on Beaumont McAllister. He was the guy that had been arrested after running Clyde’s wife off the road causing her to wreck her vehicle. Clyde Jeffreys testified “Brisband wanted me to kill Jared Jones, a retired Dallas firefighter. According to him Jared had falsely accused Brisband of having an affair with his wife Sarah Giltry. Jared threatened to provide information that could implicate Brisband in illicit business dealings. I refused to carry out the murder and told the authorities of his plot. Jared later turned up missing. Over six months passed, word leaked out to Brisband that I was the confidential informant which sparked his pending bribery case. I believe those are the two reasons why Brisband wanted to snuff me out.”
Beaumont McAllister turned prosecution witness by pleading guilty at his own arraignment and agreeing for a plea deal for a lesser sentence by implicating Brisband and his coconspirator in the vehicular scare tactic accident. “I was wearing the mask at the time, which Brisband wore when he tried to kill her husband, Clyde. During the incident, I had caused Millicent to crash her car. She was to file a police report leaving open the possibility of the attempted murderer still being on the loose. However, I never planned for an officer to show up on the scene culminating in my arrest after a high speed chase.” Beaumont went on to explain how Brisband’s partner in crime had paid him to carry out the act and that she was to make him a final payment once the job was completed.
Belle Hightower was also called to the stand. She was the young lady that had made the 911 call on the day of the attempt on Clyde’s life. Her description of the man she had seen arguing with Clyde in the club was identical to that given by Ben Thomas of the suspect.
The matter of the neighbors break in was revisited. The judge felt it was now relevant based on testimony. The defense now blamed the shooting of Clyde Jeffreys on Beaumont McAllister who had testified for the prosecution. They said he had broken into Brisband neighbor’s house by mistake. After realizing his mistake, he went to Brisband’s house where he obtained the weapon that was used in the attempt on Clyde’s life. Further, they said Beaumont acted alone in the traffic incident, which threatened Clyde’s wife Millicent.
Judge Tiller granted a request permitting jurors to view a signed description by Ben Thomas corroborating his testimony of the guy that emerged through the alleyway from where the crime took place. It mentioned he was wearing a mask that hung down past his shoulders. Permission was given for the prosecution to have Beaumont and Brisband to try on the mask. It barely rested on Beaumont’s shoulders; however, it fitted Brisband in the manner described by Ben Thomas.
That afternoon, the defense and prosecution rested their cases. The jury deliberated for an hour before they returned a verdict that found Brisband guilty as charged.
His criminal woes, however, would extend past the verdict that had been rendered. The morning newspaper reported that a drug trafficking ring, in addition to a separate operation, which smuggled illegal immigrants to work in a U.S. sweatshop, was shut down in the wee hours of the night by Federal law enforcement agents. The Federal Investigation, which prompted the action, concluded Harry Brisband played a key role in the illicit undertakings.
Brisband’s construction company was turned over to his oldest son Thomas to operate going forth as result of his father’s conviction.
The word of Harry Brisband being found guilty of attempted murder traveled throughout the local community.
Sarah phoned Johnny, “Hi Johnny. I got your text message stating you have an urgent message.”
“Yeah Sarah, the bad news is that Brisband has been found guilty of attempted murder. He is looking at serving time in prison.”
“Are you serious?”
“Brisband had wronged someone named Clyde Jeffreys. It was brought out doing the court case that Brisband wanted him to kill Jared. Clyde refused to kill Jared and also months later provided details to the authorities to implicate Brisband in our upcoming bribery case.”
“I must have misunderstood you.”
“No. You heard correctly.”
“It was brought out during the trial that Brisband attempted to put out a contract on your husband.”
“We both know that’s a lie. Brisband would never have hired anyone to kill Jared.”
“You should checkout the local newspaper headline today.”
“Why?”
It states that Brisband has been linked to drug trafficking, in addition, to the smuggling of illegal immigrants into the country.”
It all seems so unbelievable. I’m hoping no one can show during our upcoming Bribery case that I brought you and Brisb
and together.”
“I hope not too. We should not even be openly discussing this matter.”
“You are right.”
Chapter 24
Lucinda paid a visit to Vincent at his abode attired in a low cut blouse tucked into a mini skirt accentuating her long shapely thighs. In her right hand, she was carrying a briefcase containing study material for several of her classes. The time she spent being tutored by Vincent in his personal law library, quickly flew. Lucinda thanked Vincent for his assistance. They stood to their feet staring at each other without saying a word. Eventually she spoke, “I need to freshen up a bit.”
He pointed the way to the bathroom. “You don’t have to rush off when you are done. Feel free to stay longer. I’m going to have some wine. Would you like to join me for a drink?”
“Sure. I’ll be back in a moment.”
When she exited the bathroom back into the hall, he met her with their drinks. Lucinda followed him to his bedroom. He placed an arm around her as they took a few sips of wine. Soon he was caught up into all she had to offer. Lucinda was one married woman he could not resist. After making love late into the night, Vincent fell asleep. She soon dozed off in his arms. Several hours later, Lucinda awoke as her cell phone began to ring. She looked at the digital clock on the stereo across the room realizing she had spent the night with her lover. The time was now 4:00 o’clock in the morning. “Ah Shit!”
Vincent woke up, “What’s wrong baby.”
“I need to get up.”
He loosened his grip on her as she turned over on her side removing her cell phone from the nightstand. She checked the phone to see who had called. David had left a message.
“Who was it Lucinda?”
“It was David. He gets home from work usually about 4:00 in the morning. He left a message asking me to provide my whereabouts.”
“Tell Mr. David, I said Hi.”
“I can’t tell him anything about tonight without letting on to the fact that you fucked me.” After taking a shower, she hurriedly dressed. “I’ll be seeing you later Mr. Vince.” They kissed briefly.
Upon leaving Vincent’s upscale gated community, she went to a nearby all night supermarket.
When she finally got home, David was sitting patiently in the living room as she came through the door carrying bags of grocery.
Lucinda said, “Are you going to help me? There is still more bags in the car.” After he finished bringing in the groceries, she called out to him, “David, I’m in the bedroom.” He entered the room. “I didn’t mean to worry you. I couldn’t sleep so I went to the all night grocery store across the way. There wasn’t anything left to prepare even the simplest meal.”
“You could have called and left me a message saying you were going shopping.”
“Come here Davey.” She looked at him in a wanton manner. She held out her hands. “Baby, make love to me. Let us not think of anything else.”
Chapter 25
Private Investigator Daniel Burks visited Zeke Mathews’ home. Burks wondered whether Zeke had any information that could assist him with the investigation of Jared’s death. “Suppose I tell you that I don’t?”
“Well, there must be something you can tell me. Other than David, you were his next best buddy. Am I right?”
“You are right.”
“So cut through the chase and tell me all you know.”
“Jared was having an affair before his unfortunate demise.”
“With whom was he having an affair?”
“Be patient detective, I’m getting there.”
“Okay.”
“He was having an affair with his best friend’s wife. Lucinda had been cheating on David for about a year with Jared. It’s my understanding that David never found out about them.”
“So why would he have confided in you about their adulterous relationship.”
“Jared felt really bad about befriending David. According to him, Lucinda started coming onto him. After several attempts not to give into her advances, his defenses wore down. He allowed himself to be trapped in a sexual relationship were he craved his best friend’s wife. She was Jared’s only weakness. Lucinda and David appear to be happily married. Please do not destroy all they have rehashing something from the past.”
“I’ll try not to destroy their marriage, but I also have a job to do. Where were you on the day that Jared disappeared?”
“Jared was to pick me up so we could go out for a drink. However, I called and told him to meet me at the pub instead. I sat at the bar waiting on Jared but he never showed. Finally, I had a drink alone before leaving.”
Later Burks visited Lucinda at home. He informed her that he is investigating Jared’s death.
“A confidential source has brought to my attention that you may be able to help me.”
“Someone has sent you here hoping I would air out some dirty laundry.”
“Could you be a little clearer?”
“Someone has told you that I and Jared were lovers unbeknownst to my Husband David.”
“Lucinda, you are right. I am surprise you admitted to the affair without further prodding.”
“You probably think our relationship could have contributed to Jared’s death.”
“It is my job to look at all angles when trying to crack a case.”
“I can assure you that my husband never knew I was cheating on him.”
“You appear to have known that I was going to ask if you had an affair with Jared. How would you have known?”
“Zeke Mathews told you about our extramarital relationship. He called to give me a heads up so I would not be taken by surprise by your questioning.”
“I understand Zeke was just being a good steward. What was your alibi on the day Jared disappeared?”
“I was home the whole day. I wasn’t feeling well. David was home sick too. We were under the weather. We were experiencing flu like symptoms.”
“Thanks for the information.”
Sarah had been approached by Mrs. Titanimum to be an inspirational speaker at a women’s entrepreneurial empowerment conference to be held at the retreat. She accepted the offer without hesitation.
The day of the conference, Sarah took to the stage. She received a warm applause. Hecklers dampened her well intentions about halfway through her speech. A middle age woman shouted, “You’re a lying bribery suspect.”
An older woman interjected, “Tell us the truth of how you made your wealth.” Others chimed in with similar remarks booing her throughout the remainder of the speech.
She tried to look undaunted.
After the event, Mrs. Titanimum attempted to apologize for those not approving of her speaking. Sarah said, “I’m fine. I believe the majority of the women actual heard my message. There will always be people who will try to bring you down.”
“You are right Sarah. I can’t help but admire your strength.”
That night there was a steady knocking on the door and ringing of the doorbell at Lucinda’s house. She heard Vincent’s voice calling her name. Opening the door, she asked, “What’s wrong Vince? Are you Okay?”
“I’m fine.”
“How did you now that David was not home? I don’t like you showing up here.”
“You are right. But I had to see you.”
“You have got to control yourself. I wouldn’t expect an attorney to pulling such a juvenile stunt. You can come in for a moment. I’m going to get a sweater. Maybe we can meet at the coffee shop down the street.”
“That’s a great idea. I still remember the first time we met there.”
“Don’t flatter yourself. I’ll be right back.”
When they arrived at the coffee shop, they took a seat at the table where she once chastened him for unwelcomed overtures. After ordering their drinks they talked late into night. They did not leave until it was time for the coffee shop to close.
After returning home, Lucinda got ready for bed. She did not awaken until she felt Dav
id pulling back the covers. She said, “Good Morning.”
“Good morning love. I hope you slept well.”
“Yes Dear, I was professing my love to you in a dream. I’m truly blessed to have you.”
“You always find the sweetest romantic things to say.”
Lucinda blushed.
Chapter 26
In a few weeks, Sarah would have to testify in the upcoming bribery case. The Prosecution surmised she was the mastermind that brought Businessman Harry Brisband and Councilman Johnny Davis together to transact the alleged illicit deal. Though Sarah usually seemed unfazed when confronted with problems, the approaching trial was really starting to make her feel uneasy. She had every right to feel that way because she was guilty. Mentally she frequently revisited the night that she took the payoff money from Brisband. The total in the briefcase he handed over in a hotel room was a cool two million dollars. She said, “If I were a whore then this probably would be your most expensive lay.”
Brisband said, “Alright stop with the whit. Do you wish to count the loot?”
“I trust you.” She kept her stash separate from the money in the briefcase. “I’ll have to find away to launder my cut into my business. Until then I’ll put it into a bank security box out of state in a fictitious name.”
After she stopped reflecting back on the receipt of the payoff funds, Sarah decided to go for a ride. She stopped by the Titanimum’s house to let Bridget know that she was still fine. “Hi Woodrow, I didn’t expect you to answer the door.”
“My butler has taken the day off.”
“I’m here to speak with your wife.”
“She is out shopping. As you know she is really fashionable.” Taking advantage of the time alone, they made love as he droved Sarah against the stairwell. As they reached orgasm, they heard the sound of the garage door. When Mrs. Titanimum entered the house they had composed themselves. The large screen television on the entertainment wall in the grand room was tuned to a news program they pretended to be watching.
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