Thread: Blind Spot

Chapter Fourteen The ride across town to the college was uneventful, they made a detour to City Hall where the DA and ADAs had their offices to collect their warrant before continuing across to the college. Reaching Marybeths dorm block, the two detectives left their car and approached the building, both of them hanging their badges around their necks as they approached. Entering the building they found the same campus security cop whod escorted them to the room yesterday, although now he seemed to be standing guard. Probably to prevent anyone, but especially them, from getting into Marybeths room. As he saw them the cop took a couple of steps towards them, blocking their path. Sorry, detectives, but I cant let you go back there. Not without a warrant, said the security officer, with a slightly apologetic look on his face. He knew they were just doing their job, just as he knew they knew he was only doing his. Its okay, officer, we have a warrant, said Kyle, giving the older man a knowing smile as he handed the warrant over. The security officer took the warrant and quickly read through it, scanning it quickly although he made sure to check the date, address and room number, before he handed it back. That all seems to be in order, detective, although Miss Baker wanted me to inform her if you returned, he said, as he handed the warrant back. After the two detectives had left yesterday Miss Baker had spent nearly half an hour screaming at him, threatening to have him fired for showing the detectives Marybeths room. Shed then gone into the room and shut the door, telling him to wait outside and stop anyone, even Megan, the roommate, from entering. He didnt know what shed been doing in there, but when she came out she had something in her hand. Lets hold off on that for a few minutes, shall we, said Kyle, after a few seconds. They had their warrant so technically they didnt have to inform Judith Baker they were there, although he knew it would be good politics to do so, but that could wait a few minutes. Has anyone besides Megan Wheeler, the roommate, been inside the room since we left? Asked Kyle, deciding to play a hunch. Miss Baker spent several minutes inside the room, with the door closed, after you left, answered the guard, after a brief pause. Thank you, said Kyle, before he added. Would you be willing to make a statement to that effect? The guard nodded, and Kyle spoke again. Thank you. Now, why dont you go tell Miss Baker were here, now, we can find our way. The guard nodded, abandoning his post after first using his pass card to open the barrier so Kyle and Katya could go through. He handed Kyle a key off the ring on his belt, the key to Megan and Marybeths room, before he headed off in the opposite direction to inform the RA that the detectives were back. Before entering the room, both Kyle and Katya were careful to pull on latex gloves, Katya taking out her camera as the moved into the room. Diarys been moved, noted Katya, as she saw it on the floor by Marybeths bed and took a couple of pictures before she stooped to pick it up. She distinctly remembered putting the diary on the bed, and she doubted that Megan had gone near it. In fact, judging from the room, Katya was willing to bet that Megan hadnt spent last night in her room, instead probably bunking with a friend. Of course, shell just say that it got moved when they were boxing up Marybeths stuff, she added, as she sat down on the bed and opened the diary. Kyle, there are pages missing, ripped out by the looks of it, including the ones I read to you yesterday, she added. I thought I told you two not to come back without a warrant, demanded a voice from the doorway behind Kyle. Standing in the doorway was Judith Baker, hands on her hips and glaring at Kyle. Now, get the hell out, before I call the commissioner and lodge a formal complaint against both of you! She added, her eyes fixing on Katya and the diary she held. We have a warrant, Miss Baker, said Kyle, as he turned to face her. But Im glad youre here, maam, we have a few questions wed like to ask you. He added, as he moved to block her path into the room. Hed seen the way her eyes had moved to Katya and the diary. Fuck you, and your damn questions. Im not answering any questions until I see that warrant, said the RA, thrusting out her hand towards Kyle and making a give it to me now type gesture. Taking the warrant from his pocket, Kyle handed it over, watching the RA as she read through it. Its all legal, but you can call the ADA if you like and check, said Kyle, softly, watching her. Dont you think I wont do that, she snapped, before she stormed out of the room. She returned some ten minutes later, all but throwing the warrant back at Kyle as she stood once more in the doorway. Now, Miss Baker, about those questions, said Kyle, keeping his voice soft. Katya had already placed the diary in a sealed evidence bag, theyd bagged a few other items too, including a rainbow friendship bracelet on Marybeths bookcase and four or five cards, including a Valentine card that had been simply signed J. Did you come into this room after we left yesterday? No, answered Judith, after the briefest hesitation. Are you sure? Not even to sort out Marybeths things? We have a witness who places you in this room, with the door closed, after we left, pushed Kyle, keeping his voice calm as he spoke. I...no, thats a lie, protested Judith, weakly, after another hesitation. Miss Baker, I will ask you one last time. Did you enter this room, at any time, after we left yesterday? No, answered Judith, although this time she couldnt look either detective in the face. Miss Baker, Im placing you under arrest for obstructing a criminal investigation, and also on suspicion of tampering with evidence in a criminal investigation. You have the right to remain silent, but anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney, and to have an attorney present when questioned. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you. Do you understand these rights as I have explained them to you? Said Kyle, as he removed the handcuffs from the pouch on his belt and stepped towards the RA. Pushing her gently against the wall, he pulled her hands behind her back, placing the cuffs on her wrists and locking them into place with a click. I want a lawyer, snarled Judith, as Kyle and Katya led the suspect out of the building and across to the car. Holding the door open, so Katya could push the suspect into the back of the car, Kyle turned to her and said This time, I get to play bad cop. Katya just grinned and rolled her eyes, before she climbed into the rear of the car and Kyle shut the door, before he went round to the drivers side and got in. The information the guard had given them about Judith being alone in the room and then coming out with papers in hand had made Katya groan inwardly. She had a good idea what had happened and they didnt need that kind problems. Not with a suspect. The first thing she did after the guard left was to call up the ADA to get another warrant for Judiths room. Yes I know its another one. What? Funny.... Ill two for one sale you. Cant you just get us a universal warrant it would make things so much easier? I know your boss has to face the voters and that hes a member of the ACLU. Whats your point? Okay, thanks Abbs. Katya slipped her phone in her pocket and shook her head. Why do lawyers all think they are comedians? As she took pictures of the diary she tried to remember if she had taken any that showed the pages that were now missing. The memory card with the images was back in the off in a locked drawer. It would certainly help matters when push came to shove. Which it would and did. The arrest wasnt a surprise to either her or Kyle. That she asked for a lawyer already would make things fun. Could you locked up both rooms so nobody can get into either one? Katya asked the guard as they were leaving with Judith in tow. She got a nod and a better you than me look about it all. The drive back was fairly quiet. With the lawyer request the detectives didnt bother to question her much and Judith wasnt in a talking kind of mood. The most direct route to the station was through the Marquis Park and past where it had happened. As they passed the spot, Katya noticed Judiths head turn to keep it in view for as long as possible. Thats where it happened, right? Judith asked softly. Katya had been watching the womans face closely and an eyebrow went up at the the tone she heard. So as not to taint any future questioning all she said was a simple Yes. She then explained some of the basics about what would be happening next. Once youre done processing in, theyll let you use the phone to call your lawyer. If you dont have one, theres a number next to the phone where you can request one of the pro-bono ones. Just give them the information on the sheet and theyll be down in about an hour or so. Okay? Katya gave a smile. For the first time since they met her, Judith actually did something besides scowl. It wasnt a big one but she smile and a nod. From the get go, Katya knew she was going to be the good cop with her because she was female. Judith seemed to have issues with males and probably ones in authority. Was there something behind that? Maybe but that wasnt important right now. She got along better with females so Katya would exploit that fact during the questioning. Some women had problems being around lesbians but she didnt. It probably due to her time in college when Katya experimented a little. Not just with sex, she had had makeout sessions with a couple of girls in high school but had gone much further in college, but with real relationships. Just one step below actual dating. Katya wouldnt consider herself Bi- but just that she leaned a little more towards the liking the male gender then the female. Now if Kyle had been a Kylie Katya knew she would have gone the other way. ------------------------------------------------- Chapter Fifteen While Judith was in booking, the pair compared notes and looked at some of the evidence they had brought back. Katya found that she didnt have pictures of the intact pages but remembered what they had said. Doing a quick scan through, she didnt see anything more that looked relevant to the case until... Hey... Listen to this J stopped by again. Got to talking about stuff. Told her about the stuff with Uncle Jim and how no one believed me. J told me how her dad did it and worse to her too. She said never trust a guy because theyll always hurt you. I said she was wrong. Got into a fight again. I like her but shes so.... and thats where it ends. Katya slipped the diary back into its back and peeled the gloves off. Frak... Well we have an idea why she doesnt like guys too much. Gods knows what happened. If shes looking like a probable suspect, I think wed better write everything up and send it down to Quantico and led the BSU crew take a crack at it. Any court trial will be a battle of the shrinks. Have I told you how glad I am that Im not a lawyer? Kyle said. It was nice that all the big decisions in things like this were far above their pay grades. On occasion but if you were we could afford a lot more things. Katya gave him a quick but deep kiss. Tonight, when they got home, would be just for them. No worrying about work! ---------------------------------------------------- Back in the interrogation room, the same one Sanchez had been in, the detectives sat across the table from Judith and her lawyer. She was one of the pro-bono Katya knew. After exchanging the pleasantries, things got down to business. My client is prepared to apologize for removing the pages from the room. They were of a personal nature to her and her emotions got the better of her. Sadly, the papers were flushed down the toilet. Katya glanced at Kyle with a glint in her eyes. That was 20 he owed her! Thats not a good thing. Well have to let the DA decide on what he wants to do with it. Considering its evidence in an open murder investigation... Before Kyle could go on he was interrupted by Judith. Open? That Sanchez creep did it! Come on! He threatened to kill him! Judith started to rise out of her chair but her lawyers hand on her shoulder got her to calm down. That may be so Ms Baker, Katya said quietly. And we are still gathering evidence but for the moment we have not ruled anyone out. What doesnt look good is your destruction of those pages because of what was on them. About how you were trying to take a friendship to another level. She held up a finger to stop Judith from saying anything. Weve heard it from other people too that you were being a little...insistent. Insistent and possessive can go hand in hand to some people. The lawyers eyes narrowed as she leaned across the table. Are you tell me that my client is a suspect in the murder MaryBeth Anders? What!?! Thats bullshit! I would never hurt her! Judith stood up and leaned over the table, glaring. Katya saw Kyle beginning to stand out of the corner of her eye. Touching his leg, she got him to sit back down. Remaining seated, her gray eyes stared at the brown ones of the suspect until Judiths blinked and she sat back down. Yes, you are a suspect Ms Baker but thats only because the evidence is there. Ms Baker, Judith, prove us wrong. Please. Ill be happy to apologize that we mistakenly considered you one. But for the moment we have what we have. She started ticking things off on her fingers. Your wanting a relationship with the victim that she didnt reciprocate, a previous charge of assault with a knife, you promising to prevent her from seeing Mr Sanchez, and finally how you told her that you were abused by your father. Judiths mouth dropped open at hearing that. I...that... It was a page you missed, Katya said simply. Means, motive, and opportunity. Its there. With Mr Sanchez, he was more angry at you than at Ms Anders. As I said Judith, prove us wrong. She sat back a little but kept her eyes on the suspect. When Judith remained silent, either unwilling, or unable, to answer Katyas question, Kyle gave her almost thirty seconds before he slowly pushed his chair back away from the table and stood up. Where were you the night Marybeth Anders was killed, Miss Baker? Asked Kyle, before he took off his jacket and draped it over the back of his chair. I...I dont know, answered Judith, after a few seconds. You dont know? You dont know where you were two nights ago? Is your memory really that bad? Said Kyle, as he stepped away from the table a short distance. I was in my room, studying, answered Judith, as Kyle finished. Really? You went from not knowing where you were, to knowing where you were in five seconds? Said Kyle, turning back towards her. Did anyone see you? Were you with anyone? He asked her, keeping his voice soft, conversational, as he spoke. No, I dont think so, answered Judith, Isnt that convenient, said Kyle. Detective... said the lawyer, Kyle held out his hands and tried to look innocent, although he knew exactly what he was doing. Look, Miss Baker, right now youre facing charges of obstructing a criminal investigation and tampering with evidence. You cannot account for your whereabouts the night Marybeth was murdered, how do you think this looks? Said Kyle, leaning over the table and getting close to the RA. He kept an eye on her, though, ready to move out the way if she decided to try attacking him. Well, Miss Baker? Dont answer that, said the lawyer, glaring at Kyle. She knew exactly what the detective was trying to do, and as she turned towards her client she realized he might just have succeeded. He was good..... Katya knew that her fiance could be an ace at interrogations when he wanted to be. While she was good at using empathy to get the suspects trusting her so they would let their guard down, Kyle probed to find the chinks in their armor. Either by being smooth like this or big and nasty. Even better was when they worked together. The suspects didnt know which way to react in those cases. At the moment, Katya was studying the reactions that played across Judiths face. The cameras! Judith suddenly said. All those damned cameras. You cant get out of there without them seeing it. Especially at night. She sat back, quite satisfied with herself. Point for you, Katya nodded and then smiled at the slight scowl Kyle had for an instant. The woman did have a point and she made a mental note to check them out. Problem though... Its more like proving a negative. The fact that we wouldnt see you doesnt mean that you hadnt left somehow. Just not through that way. But....its something to check. I couldnt hurt MB. Okay I came on a little strong with her but... It was hard not to. I mean she was nice. The kind of person would wanted to protect. Judith shook her head several times and then lifted her left arm up slowly to flex it while rubbing the shoulder with her right hand. From the grimace, it was causing some discomfort. Did you hurt your shoulder? Kyle asked, zeroing in on it. If the girl had struggled half as much as Katya did when they did the run through it could have caused some injuries. Yeah...a week ago playing basketball. Bitch tripped me and I fell on it. She then smiled a little. Probably revenge from the body check I gave her. Probably should have a doc check it for a rotator cuff tear. Combat basketball? Katya grinned and got a nod. They hated me because I was so short. Every time they went to do an elbow they missed. Chapter Sixteen The questions went back and forth for awhile longer until they finally let Judith go. With the warning Dont leave town. Afterwards, the detectives regrouped in their office with the door shut. She couldnt have done it. Not with that arm. Not holding MaryBeth and hauling her into the treeline. Katya leaned back in her chair and rubbed her face in her hands. No and she wasnt faking either. Kyle agreed. I had a partial once and that hurt like crap. Damn and she was looking good for it too. Yep. Well do a sweep and check those videos and some of the other players to be sure. I so dont want it to be what I thought it could be. She pulled out the bag that contained the ribbon from the book. We probably should tell the captain to have the other precincts keep an eye out for anything hinky. Hinky, huh? Asked Kyle, with a grin before he added, in a near perfect imitation of the captains voice. Is that a technical term Im unfamiliar with, Detective Komarovsky? As he finished Katya started to laugh, which made him start laughing too. We should get that down to the lab, maybe our boy got careless and left a print. Hell, Id take a partial right now, or anything that might lead us to this bastard. I know, I would too, agreed Katya, her voice soft as she stared the ribbon in the bag. Obviously the ribbon had some kind of meaning to the killer, either symbolic or something only he could understand. When the caught the guy, shed ask him. Were missing something, said Kyle, softly, as he brushed the clutter off one corner of his desk and sat on the edge. One of my first cases out of uniform, Jessica Marquis, she was another college student. They found her body in the park, it was called Stone Park back then, her father was the mayor and the council renamed it later. We thought we had a solid suspect, her ex-boyfriend, but he had an alibi we couldnt break down. He killed two more girls before we finally caught him. He added his voice somber as he spoke. He had never forgot that case, never forgot the two other innocent girls whod lost their lives because hed got it wrong. This feels like that, he finished. I know what you mean, and I pray to God were both wrong, said Katya, as she turned to look at the white board behind her, with the notes theyd made, and the photos of Marybeth Anders taped or pinned to the wall around it. Could our guy be a copy-cat? She asked, finally. No, different M.O answered Kyle, after a couple of seconds. The Stone Park Killer garroted his victims, we tried to keep that a secret but it came out during the trial. When we caught him we did some digging into him, hed served with the Green Berets, Special Forces, turns out his instructors noticed he was a little too fond of the garrote during training. Thats why, when I saw Sanchez had been through Ranger training... his voice trailed off. Alex Sanchez was definitely not their man, his alibi had held up and the game company had been able to confirm that not only had he been logged in hed been playing all the time. I know, I thought he looked good for it, too, said Katya, turning away from the white board and photographs. Looking at his watch, Kyle realized it was after lunch time. Lets take a break, grab some lunch, he said, as he rose from his desk and glanced briefly towards the whiteboard. For an extra moment Katya stayed in her chair, looking at the board. Way back when when Bryan and I first started working with the Feebs to go after that Don we met with some of the BSU people. To get profiles on the targets. We got to talking shop afterwards and they told us one of the kinds of serial that scares them most is a copycat. She looked up at Kyle for a moment before standing. One that goes around to places, does a few copycats, and moves on. If they already have an active killer they get lost in the shuffle. But in any case... She stood up and stretched to work the kinks out. At the same time a smile came to her lips because she knew Kyle liked how her breasts seemed like they wanted to pop right through her shirt. He was a leg man but didnt seem to have any issues enjoying her C-cups. You had best wipe that drool off the corner of your mouth my love before we go out... He watched her put on her jacket and walk out into the squad room with the slightest swing to her hips. And yes...he did have some drool to wipe up. A few nights ago Katya decided to spend the evening wearing nothing to see how long he could last without jumping on her. Eventually she bent over in front of him one too many times and.... Kyle shook that image out of his head and started after Katya. To his horror, she had gotten to the car first and so got to choose where they would have lunch. No! Not that. I refuse to watch you eat that pizza again. Its vile Katya. And that pop is pure sugar and probably gives you cancer from the chemicals in it! I should call the health department on that place... He grumbled, getting into the car. You do and youll find a horse head in bed next to you again! She had gotten a horse head pillow, with entrails coming out of it and placed it in bed next to him one morning before tickling his feet. Kyles reaction to waking up to it got a good laugh out of the squad when they saw the video Katya had recorded and that she hadnt told him she had sent them. And stop whining too! He had the honor of watching his future wife, the mother of his future children, tear into a no cheese pizza with pickles, peanut butter, and tabasco and wash it down with Double Bubble Cherry-Grapefruit Ice Tea while he munched on bread sticks. They did talk about the need to finally set a wedding date so the church and everything else could be reserved. The honeymoon was simple a seaside house in Monterey Bay in California all to themselves for at least a week. No cruises or anything like that. Just good alone time doing whatever they wished. As they got into the car, reality set in again MaryBeth Anders parents had arrived at the morgue to claim their daughters body. Neither detective wanted to do what they had to do but they had to do it. From experience, they knew the morgue had rooms set aside where they could meet with the parents in private. I so dont want to do this.... Katya whispered and felt Kyle squeezing her hand. She glanced over and smiled a little before nodding towards the door. I believe thats where we first met. You were investigating Tina Sanders murder and ran into Lisbeth Neeley and you called her about every bad name you could think of. I think you also swore you would put her in prison for pandering, prostitution, accessory after the fact, and from the way you were looking down her dress, indecent exposure. She got a case of the giggles. Then the look on your face when we met in that baseball dugout that first time was priceless! I know, love, I dont want to either, said Kyle, his voice soft as he squeezed her hand gently. He glanced across at the door she indicated, a flash of memory coming back to him. The girl had been badly beaten, raped and then shot in the head, her body dumped at a landfill like so much trash. Hed just come from meeting her parents, had been escorting them down to the morgue, when hed bumped into Katya in her guise as Lisbeth Neeley and if he could have he would have arrested her right then and there. He couldnt, so instead hed settled for letting her know exactly what he thought of her. Staring at the door, he felt the memories come flooding back. Chapter Eighteen Mister and Missus Sanders? Im Detective Darius, said Kyle, as he stepped into the small room where hed been told the victims parents were waiting to formally identify her body. There was a small TV screen at one end of the stark, white painted, room, liked to a camera in the morgue and when they were ready the screen would come to life to show them the body. Detective, said the man, simply, as he turned towards him. He had his arms protectively around his wife, who was still crying. Shed been crying almost constantly since theyd received the news of their daughters death two days ago. He didnt think shed slept since then, neither of them had really, the news still hadnt sunk in that their baby was gone. Im sorry for your loss, he said, softly, even as he realized how empty and hollow those words must sound. He wished there was more he could say, that he could at least say that he had the man whod murdered their daughter in custody, but the truth was he had no idea who was responsible. Do you know who did this to my daughter? Asked the man, Andrew Sanders, looking at the detective. Im sorry, sir, but I cant comment on an active, ongoing, investigation, answered Kyle, after a handful of seconds. That much was true, but if hed known anything he would have told them. I understand, said Sanders, although his voice and expression told Kyle that he didnt. Ill take you down to the viewing room, said Kyle, as he led them out of the room and down the short corridor to the Viewing Room. Once they were inside he went to inform the M.E so they could get the body ready for identification. Leaving that room, hed all but bumped into the young woman wearing more make-up than was necessary. Who the hell let you in here? He demanded, before he proceeded to grab her by the arm and all but dragged her into an empty room. I should arrest you for being an accessory to murder, right now, snapped Kyle, once the door was closed. Katya...or rather Lisbeth had gone down to the morgue to ID the body of one of her girls. As a runaway, Tina hadnt had anybody in town that could, or would, do that for her and it was the least Katya could do for the poor girl. It disgusted her that she could get these girls off the streets and in protection where they belonged. She had been shown into the observation room and had been waiting there when the door opened again.... It was obvious that the couple there were the parents and Katya had quickly stood up. From the designer dress, heels, and makeup it was easy to assume that she wasnt a schoolgirl friend of Tinas. The parents hadnt been told how their daughter had made a living but they were smart enough to make a guess. They could also make a guess as to what Katya was too. The mother walked over and slapped Katya hard on the cheek before she could say a word. Get out of here! Get out!! As she ran out into the hallway, she heard a I hope you rot in hell!!. Katya ran around the corner to a bathroom and just made it into a stall as she heaved the contents of her stomach into the toilet. Afterwards, as she fixed her makeup, she thought about this operation. The Feebs had said that Don Popi was making a move into town and was asking himself for her assistance in setting up some call girl operation. She had worked on a couple of other ops targeting him and her cover was still safe. During the last, she had been a guest at the wedding reception of one of his grand daughters and had even danced with him. The old man was a complete gentleman. A gentleman that could order you to be killed in ways that would take days for you to die. Her orders were to round up the girls, get procedures set up, and the rest. Of course actually running it would be a no-no. They wanted to get the linkages made to the Don or some of the underlings so they could be turned later on. Everything had been going okay until Tina Sanders turned up dead. Tina had sworn up and down that she was 18 but Katya knew different. The girl had too much of a babyface to be that old. She was going to get the girl busted somehow before things really got rolling. The drugs Tina used and her experience meant she had been on the streets and for that fact Katya wasnt going to use her. The advisors from the the Don disagreed because she did look so young there was a market for that. As she looked at the not-herself in the mirror, KatyaLisbeth knew it was getting time to get out. What had been fun and a game, a dangerous one, but still a game was eating at her soul. Every day a little more was chipping away. And since Bryan had been reassigned, she had no one to talk to about it. Her new boss, Tony, just wanted results and didnt care how she got them. Exiting the bathroom, she had literally run into the detective assigned to the case... Her fake nails dug into her palms as both fists clenched at having to listen to him. Of course he didnt know a thing about her other than the cover story. Outside of some Feebs and brass in the police department, nobody knew Officer Katya Komarovsky existed. She wanted to yell Im a fucking cop!! to his face but couldnt. She just had to stand there and take it like a civilian would. To fight back would get her arrested. Oh she would make bail and the charges would vanish thanks to Don Popi but she didnt need that kind of trouble right now. Are you finished Detective....Darius? Katya read from the ID badge. I came down here so that Tina wouldnt be listed as just a number in the morgue. So she could be sent home to her parents. I know what you think of me and I really dont care. I do have a heart and I would have liked to seen her off the streets. And before you start yelling at me, check with your own Vice squad because I know she got picked up by them several times. Why didnt any of them do anything for her Detective or did they think she was just worthless trash? Katya pulled a handkerchief from her Gucci bag to dab at her eyes. She did not need makeup in them. Taking a couple of deep breaths, she then look up at him with blue-gray eyes. Blue because of the contacts she wore. Do you have any idea who did this to her? I might burn in hell but I want them there too. Im sorry, but do I look like I have stupid tattooed on my forehead? Asked Kyle, once the woman had finished. And dont try and play innocent with me, that girl was fifteen, maybe sixteen, and dont try and tell me you didnt know that! Hed check with Vice, and make inquiries if it turned out the dead girl had been arrested before and find out what had happened to the charges. Although he could guess Charges dropped, insufficient evidence. Listen, lady, he added, fighting to keep his voice calmer than he felt. Right now, the only thing separating you from a being charged with being an accessory to murder is I dont need the extra paperwork. He took a couple of deep breaths, forcing himself to calm down, before he continued. Right now, I could arrest you for being an accessory after the fact, an accessory to murder, obstructing a criminal investigation, providing a minor for sex, soliciting, and if that dress was any shorter, or lower, Id have you for indecent exposure too, continued Kyle, ticking each potential charge off on his fingers. Those are all felonies, by the way, and by the time you get out youd be pushing sixty. Oh, your friends in high places might try and get the charges dropped, but Ill make things so fucking hot for them theyll drop you like a hot brick. But, right now, I dont need all that extra paperwork, so heres whats going to happen. If you hear anything, anything at all, about Tina Sanders and her murder, youre going to call me right away. He took a couple of steps towards her, pure thunder in his dark eyes. I will find out who did this, and if I find out you knew anything and held it back, Ill make sure they throw the book and the fucking bookcase at you. Reaching into his pocket he took out his wallet and pulled a business card from it, which he handed to the woman. Thats my number, you hear anything you call me, you got that. You hold out on me, Ill make sure you get a date with a lethal injection, he added, before he turned away. Maybe something had happened in her life that made her the way she was, but maybe she could change, become a decent person and so the right thing. The words were forming her her mind and she was so tempted to say Yes, it is tattooed to your forehead! but she didnt. She so wanted though.... And hearing how old Tina had been made her shut her eyes in pain. Why hadnt Vice done anything? She was underaged and they HAD to have known it or suspected it. Probably it was that she was a druggie and a whore and they just didnt give a damn. Then he was listing off felonies that he could charge her with and one took her aback. Indecent exposure?! Did you fall asleep in your criminal law class? Section 9A.88.010 says it applies only if youre exposing yourself to someone and only a felony if theyre under fourteen or a sex offender as defined by section 9.94A.030.... Katya realized from the look he was giving her that she was saying a little too much. Lisbeth would know the law but Katya would know the statutes. Katya took his card though and nodded. If I hear anything Detective, even if its just gossip, I will let you know. Promise. You dont believe me but I keep my promises. She thought she heard a hmmph from him as left. For a few moments, she stood alone in the room before leaving. There were a few errands that she had to do and the local shopping mall fit perfectly. To anyone, Lisbeth was casually shopping and drifting from store to store. Actually Katya was making she sure wasnt being tailed and if she was, not letting them know that she knew. Satisfied that she was clean, she bought a pre-paid cell phone and found a quiet corner to call a number that was to a beauty salon. Yeah I would like a dye job if you could? Thanks. She heard a couple of clicks as the call was transferred. Day word cottonmouth. Command word trinity. Action word red riding hood. Two two eight alpha three seven. The lifeguard on the other end seemed satisfied and paged Tony. If she had flubbed anything or changed the three seven to seven three they would know it was being done under duress. Woody? Red. I need a meet with you and Brothers Grimm. I dont give a fuck about that. I want a face to face. Do not give me that. I have you by the fucking balls, got that? Good. Alpha five. Plus four. Got it. Bye. Tony and the Feeb guy, and the Intell guy from the locals were going to get an earful when she met with them. That was certain. Katya popped the Sim chip from the phone before wiping it down and tossing it in the trash. The chip would meet its end in another bin. ------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter Nineteen Leaving the room, still mad as hell, Kyle headed for the elevator that would take him back up to the main hospital so he could get the hell out of there. As he walked he realized shed cited not only the law but the statues relating to it, too. Maybe a little too much information for a call girl to know, but then again maybe not. He was willing to bet there was more than one lawyer calling on her, and hed probably have given her the exact details if only so she could protect herself. Trying to push the thought from his mind he found that harder than hed thought, the woman was undeniably attractive, despite the excess make up, and he had to admit she had damn fine legs. Leaving the hospital, he walked towards his car and dug into a pocket for his cellphone. Dialing a number from memory, he waited until the receiving phone was answered. Id like to speak to Detective Hanson, please. Its Detective Darius, from homicide. He said, before his call was transferred. Kyle, old buddy, long time no see. What can I do for you? Said a familiar voice, several seconds later, as his call was transferred. Jake, yeah, its been a while. Howre you and Maria getting along? Answered Kyle, the two old friends catching up before he finally got round to the real reason for his call. I need a favor, need you to run a name for me. Tina Sanders, he added, as he reached his car and leant casually against the hood as he took a cigarette pack from his pocket. Lighting his smoke, he waited whilst his friend ran the girls name. Tina Sanders, arrested for prostitution four times in the past year. Every time all charges were dropped and she was released, orders from high, answered Hanson, after about two minutes, as he called up the girls file. Who ordered the charges dropped? Asked Kyle, as he puffed thoughtfully on his smoke. No idea, I remember her, though, pretty little thing. We knew she was underage, but when we tried to find out why the charges were always dropped we just got ordered to drop it. Whoever it was, though, it came from way above my pay grade, the last time my captain gave me a direct order to drop the charges. I got the feeling that something was up, but, you know how it is. Said Hanson, finally, as he stared at the file and the photos of the girl. Hed thought the name had seemed familiar, but seeing her picture had finally kick-started his memory. Okay, thanks Jake, said Kyle, frowning. Something didnt feel right he just couldnt put his finger on what it was. No problem, Kyle, and you should come on over for dinner, soon, I know Maria would love to see you again. Well sort something out, said Kyle, before he ended the call. Returning his phone to the pocket of his jacket, he tossed the butt of his smoke away and then climbed into his car. Starting the engine he pulled out of the hospital parking lot, heading back towards the precinct. Something wasnt right, in fact something stank like hell, and he was going to get to the bottom of it. Tina Sanders deserved at least that much. ----------------------------------------------------- Katya stormed out of the office complex more angry than she had even been in her entire life. The meeting with her handler Tony, the guy from Feebs, and the supervisor for the Intell unit had started just the way she had thought it would them being pissed that she had requested a face to face. It had gone downhill from there. Not only did they not care about Tinas death but they berated her for going to the morgue in the first place. The positive light they could see was that Detective hadnt busted her and endangered her cover. They were more worried about that then a girls death. When Katya asked about at least bringing Darius into the loop they went ballistic. Giving her all the usual messages about this being more important than any one thing and all the rest that she had heard again and again. What had floored her though... What had actually made her jaw drop was being told that she was not, repeat, not to investigate the murder and even if she somehow found the suspect she was to keep it to herself. When all was said and done, they might be able to bring charges against that person. Katya got the impression that the might would be never. After that news, she had left before she did something they would regret. As she drove, Katya half thought about telling Don Popi about it. He had granddaughters, hell, great-granddaughters Tinas age and he was old school when it came to them. She could easily get him to take care of whoever it was. It was so tempting....but she couldnt do it. Not only would be make her an accessory and taint all her work it was just wrong. When it came down to it, she enforced the law, not breaking it for her own needs. Hey Lissie! How many times have I told you that its Lisbeth and NOT Lissie? LisbethKatya said as she walked into the back room of one of the hottest new night clubs in town. The person she was directing her playful scorn to was very tall, very thin, and very very gay. Miguel had a wit that was as sharp as cut glass and a laugh that matched it. He was, however, one of the best managers that she had ever come across. He could work the chaos of the club into magic. He was also smart enough to not notice anything that might be happening behind the scenes or where some of the money came from. She knew he knew what she was setting up but appreciated that she was keeping such a low profile because it didnt bring the heat down. Where have you been girl? You is late. Getting near time for the house to get rockin! Had things to do... You remember Tina? Baby face, brown hair, hung around where you got all the old pinball machine? Katya said as she poured herself a shot of Stoli before sitting down on a couch. She didnt drink much but today she needed a slug. Yeah....cutie. All the young bucks liked to hang around her. The place strictly enforced the legal age. No ID, no getting in, no exceptions. The problem was there were a lot of IDs around that were, in a word, perfect. Miguel took a look at her face and sat down next to her. Oh no....what happened? Cops found her last night....this morning. Somebody did a number on her and I went to do an ID and ran into her parents. It was not pleasant.... Fuck.... He shook his head. They had the runaways and other flotsam washing up. He knew what Lisbeth was doing, or going to do, and he knew she was being careful to try and weed out the lost children from it all. To at least give them a second chance at living. She gave her hand a squeeze. My poor girl... Wait. You they found her this morning? And she was here last night. I remember because she had that cute band in her hair that looked like two cat ears. I remember that! I kept asking to borrow it and she kept saying no. Katya chuckled and then she saw how white he had gotten. What? Whats wrong Miguel? She hadnt been there the previous night due to some other work that needed to be done. She left....she left with Chris Danti. She could understand why he went white because a shudder went through her body at the thought of him. He part of Don Popis crew and someone who was on his way up fast. Usually by killing off his rivals. He was a stone, cold, sociopath. The few times she had met him it felt like he sucked the heat from the room. He came in this morning and the night guy said he took the hard drive with last nights camera recordings. Lisbeth.... he started to say, shaking. She pressed a finger to his lips. You didnt say that, you didnt see them, it never happened, k? We dont ever mention it again. Katya said softly and got a nod from him. They both knew that is Danti even thought they might know something they were dead. Miguel nodded and then excuse himself to start opening things up as she sat there to think. Could they use this to flip Danti? Never. Even if he had been caught in the act he would never turn snitch. Even on a straight murder case the evidence was thin at best. Without the video all they had was Miguel and he wouldnt talk. Not even for witness protection. He had a big family and Katya knew Danti would be willing to start chopping it up. Did he leave anything else behind that he hadnt realized? Forensic type things. Stuff that could get missed if you didnt know who you were looking for.... Grabbing her purse, she sought out Miguel. I dont think Im going to be in tonight. Just dont feel like it.... Katya drove her car to a hotel parking ramp and flashed a pass to the attendant. She had a box under the seat with parking passes to most places in town. The hotel had a rather nice gym that she used a couple of times a week. It also had a locker room too... At this hour of the day it wasnt too busy so she had time alone to change out of the designer dress and into a professional slacks and blouse that had been hanging in her locker. She scrubbed off the heavy makeup and applied just light bit. The kind that would be appropriate in an office for example. The dress was folded carefully to be placed in a thin briefcase. After adjusting the black wig, she put the finishing touch wire rimmed glasses. In under 15 minutes, she was a whole new person. Striding out the front door, she caught a taxi that would take her to airport. There, she caught a shuttle to another hotel and picked up the car that was in that parking ramp. This one was clean and owned by her father. From there Katya drove to a storage rental site and unlocked a small unit. Nobody knew about this but her. In contained stuff that probably should have been turned in after previous assignments but she had forgotten to do it. After looking through a box, she found what she was looking for. It was getting near nightfall and she needed something to see in the dark. Military grade night visionthermal goggles would do the trick. There was also something in a locked box as well she might need too. In a few minutes, she was changed into jeans, t-shirt, and a Mets ball cap with most of her tucked under it. Slipping on a jacket, Katya made sure the 9mm Makarov she had found under the spare tire in the car was reachable in a pocket. It had to have been her dad's but where he had gotten it she didn't know. While undercover she wasnt allow a firearm. The card that Darius had given her was long since destroyed but she knew the number. Pulling out a new burn phone she dialed the number. Detective? No names for the moment. Remember me? Okay. I want to meet. Cuz I like your good looks! No, I got information. Yes. Remember Hasselton? Where he started out? Walk out on to the field and Ill signal. Hey! My neck is on the line here and not yours. I want to see if you brought company. Okay. In....45? Cool. She hung up and pulled the battery from the phone before driving off. -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Leaving the hospital, after his call to Vice, Kyle had headed for City Hall to see if anyone in the DAs office knew about Tina Sanders and the mysteriously dropped charges. One of the ADAs owed him a favor maybe they could do some digging and find out where the order to drop all charges had come from. He checked his watch, it was a little after a six in the evening but he knew there would still be people working on cases, preparing depositions and warrants. Parking the car he lit a cigarette as he walked towards the building entrance, adjusting the 9mm Ruger he carried on his hip and fishing in his pocket for his badge as he paused outside to finish his smoke. Finishing his smoke, Kyle dumped the butt in the ashtray outside and then headed into the building, flashing his badge to the security guard on duty. The guard checked his badge and ID, comparing the picture to the face of the detective before he allowed Kyle to bypass the security metal detectors. Taking the elevator up to the fourth floor, Kyle made his way down the corridor until he reached the office of ADA Emma Bryant. Knocking on the door, he waited until a soft voice called out for him to enter before he turned the handle and stepped inside the office. Hey, Emma, said Kyle, as he entered the office and closed the door behind himself. Well, if it isnt the cutest detective in the Willowburg PD, said the woman, as she looked up from her computer screen and the report shed been reading. She flashed Kyle a warm smile and gestured towards the seat on the opposite side of her desk. What can I do for you, detective? She added. I need you to run a name for me, Tina Sanders. She was busted for prostitution four times in the past year, but each time orders came down and the charges were dropped. Any chance you can find out who got the charges dropped? Said Kyle, as he settled into the chair opposite Emma. Sure, said Emma, as she began tapping away on her computer keyboard. Or, maybe not. I cant even access the booking records, someone really doesnt want anyone looking into this, said Emma, several minutes later. Ive tried everything I can, and I keep coming up against a stone wall. Sorry, Kyle, added Emma At least you tried, Emma, said Kyle, softly, as he rose to his feet. It looked as if this case was going to be harder to solve than hed first realized, but he was going to get to the bottom of it. Tina Sanders deserved at least that much. Is there anything you can tell me? He asked, pausing by the door to Emmas office. Not much, just the club where she was busted all four times, answered Emma, as she wrote the name down on a piece of paper and then rose to her feet and came across to the door to give it to him. Be careful, Kyle. Whoever is behind this, theyre connected seven ways from Sunday. Just be careful, so this doesnt come back to bite you in the ass, she added, as she handed him the paper with the name of the club written on it. Im always careful, Emma, Kyle assured her, as he tucked the paper into a pocket of his jacket. I promise, Emma, he added, as he reached out and gently touched her hand. Opening the door her left the office, leaving City Hall and heading for his car. Once inside his car Kyle lit a cigarette and stared at the paper in his hand, something told him he was in over his head with this whole case. He knew the club it was rumored to be the main hang out for some of the citys worst criminals funded by money from organized crime. Maybe Tina Sanders had found out something, or seen something, she shouldnt have and that had been what got her killed. Finishing his smoke, Kyle stubbed the butt out in the ashtray and then started the cars engine as he checked his watch. It was almost eight, and the evening sky was starting to get dark as he guided the car back towards the precinct. Hed check in first, then decide what to do. Hed either sign out for the night and visit the club in the morning or hed go that night, he just wasnt sure which. He was halfway to the precinct when his cellphone rang. Darius, he said, fumbling the blue-tooth hands-free earpiece into place. Detective, remember me? Said a familiar voice, one he really hadnt expected to hear again. I remember you, said Kyle, keeping his voice even. Okay, good. I want to meet, added the speaker. Why? Cuz I like your good looks! No, I got information. Yes. Remember Hasselton? Where he started out? Walk out on to the field and Ill signal. Why should I trust you? He asked, it was an obvious question but he still felt the need to ask. Hey! My neck is on the line here and not yours. I want to see if you brought company. Okay. In forty five? Cool. Ill be there, said Kyle, before he ended the call and tossed the cellphone onto the empty seat beside him. Changing lanes he put his foot down, he was sure he hadnt been followed but if he did have a tail he wanted to be sure hed lost them before the meeting. Chapter Twenty As planned, Katya had gotten there ahead of the detective and settled into the dugout. The field was a far distance from the street lights so it was just about pitch black. The night vision goggles made it a sea of green though. These were state of the art that combined night vision with thermal imaging so heat sources glowed. They had been loaned to her and Bryan for an op that involved Katya dressed as a homeless person and Bryan watching her from a hidden vantage point. They just never turned it back in after it was done.... The vision was great but the field of view was limited so Katya had to keep swiveling her head to cover every where. There looked like a bunch of bunnies running about in the grass that she could see. Grinning, she wanted to watch them but knew she couldnt. Then they all suddenly ran away. Tightening the hold on the Makarov in her pocket she watched as a blob came into view. Soon enough, the blob became a human figure. She kept looking but couldnt see anyone else showing up. Turning back to the figure, she dialed the zoom up to look at the face. It was blurry but Katya recognized the detective. Her other hand held up a pen-sized flashlight and blinked it three times at him. She had to bite her lip to stop from laughing at how he jumped when the light hit him. Watch your step. About three feet to your left, she said softly, not wanting him to fall off the edge on to the concrete. When he was settled, she pulled off the goggles and closed her eyes for a moment to let them get readjusted to the dark. Why are talking Miss Neeley? Kyle finally said in a soft voice. Taking a deep breath, she started speaking... First off, my name isnt Lisbeth Neely. Thats my cover Ive been using off and on for a few years. My real name is Officer Yekaterina Komarovsky of the Willowberg Police Intelligence Unit. Katya for short and were meeting because a certain sociopathic goumba named Chris Danti killed Tina. I dont have any evidence that you can actually use but hes the one that did it. From where hed been when hed received the call, the baseball field was only about a twenty minute drive away. But Kyle wanted to make sure he wasnt being followed, or set up, so hed made sure he took the longest route he could and still get there a few minutes early. Even if he wasnt being followed he wanted to scope out the field, make sure there wasnt an ambush waiting for him. Being ninety nine percent certain he wasnt being followed, despite the precautions hed taken Kyle knew there was no way he could be one hundred percent sure, he parked the car about two blocks from the baseball field and killed the engine. Taking an extra minute to check that he wasnt being followed, the area where hed parked was almost devoid of traffic, he left the car and lit a cigarette as he ducked into a narrow side street and headed for the baseball field. Ignoring the main entrance, Kyle circled around towards the bleachers and outfield until he found a stretch of fence that was well concealed in the shadows. Taking off his jacket he tossed it over the barbed wire at the top of the fence, and then climbed up and over, his jacket protecting him from the wicked barbs. Dropping to the ground, he reached up and pulled his jacket off the wire, it was a little ripped but otherwise wearable, before he unsnapped the safety strap that held his holstered pistol in place and then moved out into the field. As he walked Kyle knew he was being watched, the sensation a little unnerving because he had no reason to trust that woman and no way of knowing whether or not she was leading him into an ambush. He kept his hand close to his gun, his senses reaching out into the blackness that surrounded him. He paused once, his keen ears having picked up the barest, faintest, sound of someone breathing in the otherwise still and silent night. Turning slightly towards the sound he began moving again. When the flashlight beam hit him, even though hed known someone was there, it had still caught him a little by surprise. Shielding his eyes to protect his night vision, Kyle began walking towards where the beam had come from, the sound of breathing getting louder as he drew close. Even before her words came he knew exactly where she was, and where the edge of the concrete was, hed played both senior and big league baseball there when he was in High School. Dropping down into the dugout, he seated himself on the edge of the dugout wall and waited for her to remove the night vision gear she was wearing. Why are we talking, Miss Neeley? He asked, finally, keeping his voice soft. Taking a deep breath, she started speaking. First off, my name isnt Lisbeth Neely. Thats my cover Ive been using off and on for a few years. My real name is Officer Yekaterina Komarovsky of the Willowburg Police Intelligence Unit. Katya for short and were meeting because a certain sociopathic goumba named Chris Danti killed Tina. I dont have any evidence that you can actually use but hes the one that did it. I see, said Kyle, finally, once shed stopped talking. He knew about the WPD Intelligence Unit, they focused almost exclusively on organized crime, working closely with the Feds and DEA amongst others. The name shed just given him did sound vaguely familiar, though, although he couldnt quite place where hed heard it. Lets assume, for a minute, that youre telling the truth and you really are a cop. You dont have any evidence to prove it, but you know hes responsible. No evidence makes that hearsay, Officer Komarovsky. He paused, looking straight at her before he added. What am I supposed to do? Go to the DA and say I dont have any evidence, but this hooker who claims to be an undercover cop says this guy Chris Danti killed Tina Sanders? If I go to the DA with that, Ill be lucky if they just laugh me out the building. So, unless youve got something concrete, or are willing to help me get something, then were just wasting each others time. Thirty seconds of silence passed, before he added. Well, Officer Komarovsky, whats it going to be? Are you going to help me, or not? His attitude infuriated her but in a way, she knew he was right. What did she have to give him? Youre right, I cant prove Im a cop, Katya said softly. My records are in a locked box in a safe somewhere at HQ. I havent lived under my own name in over four years. I never actually graduated with my class at the academy so theres no pictures. In short, I dont exist. She sat back down and shook her head. I could give you the name of my handler but I have a feeling they would have the Feebs arrest you on something to get you out of the way. Were going after Don Popi and aint nothing is getting in the way of things. The light was too dim to make much out but Kyle thought without all the makeup she looked a lot prettier than when they first met. What do you know then? he asked more gently. Anything you know can help. Im based out of the Cobalt Club, the new place over on Longview Drive, setting up escort services. Ones that wont actually work of course. And yes, were mobbed up the ying yang. We card everybody and kick the underage out but the IDs are damn good. Thats why girls like Tina get in. I wanted to keep her out. Hell...I called a tip to the cops once and they busted her and she was back the next night. She didnt realize it but her fist pounded on the bench a couple of times before wiping some tears off of her cheeks.I wasnt there last but the manager told me that Tina left with Chris Danti and that he came in this morning and took the hard drive with the security camera footage from last night. Katya knew what the next question he would ask and she shook her head. You cant talk to the manager either. He wont say anything, I can guarantee that. And its a better than even chance that if Danti finds out you questioned him, hell kill him andor his family. Trust me detective, Danti will do it. I met him a couple of times and he is....evil. I mean even the other goombas are scared of him. Damn it! My bosses want to sweep this all under the rug. If Bryan, my old handler, was here he would have been talking to you this morning about it. He got transferred to the 4th or 5th precinct robbery last year and made an LT. Katya knew Bryan would have figured out what to do even if it meant going behind everybodys back to get some justice for Tina. The name Bryan triggered a connection theyd had a new lieutenant transfer to his precinct about a year ago. Im with the fifth precinct, we had a new lieutenant transfer in the back end of last year, Bryan Smith, said Kyle, thoughtfully, after a handful of seconds. Although the lieutenant had initially come across as a bit of a hard ass, he and Kyle actually got on pretty well. Probably because they were both former military. Thats him, she said. Thinking for a few minutes, Kyle tried to decide what they should do next. If the lieutenant could confirm she was a cop then that would give him something to work with, but if she was a cop and undercover he couldnt risk doing, or saying, anything that might blow her cover. He had no delusions about what would happen to her if the people she was investigating found out she was a cop shed be lucky if they killed her slowly. Luckily, the marines had trained him to think on his feet. Okay, this is what were going to do, he began, finally, as he took out his notebook and wrote a telephone number on it then handed it to her. I need you to give me something, a code word or something, which I can drop casually into a conversation with Bryan, so he knows weve made contact. If he confirms youre story, Ill call that number at exactly five tomorrow afternoon. Its a payphone, down by the marina make sure youre there to answer it. Well decide where we go from there, he finished, finally. What exactly theyd do he didnt know, yet, but he would think of something. Her jaw dropped at the news of Bryan working with him before changing into a smile. One thing she knew about her old handler was that he would move heaven and earth to help her. Exactly what they were going to do she hadnt a clue. They needed to get enough evidence could be a probable suspect to get search warrants, etc on him. At the same time keeping her out of it enough not to blow what she was working on. Oh and not letting their