YOU GOT THAT WRONG A Bridge Club Mystery 4th Draft By David McMullen Prologue The Informant _Boston Seaport April 1994_ The wind off the harbor carried the salty bite of low tide and the hollow clang of loose cables on sailboat masts Farther out in the black water a tugs horn moaned in the fog Arnie Price checked his watch Looked up Checked it again Ten minutes late He should have been here by now The thought gnawed at him as he hugged the shadows along the edge of the unlit railing moving toward a darkened maintenance shed with stacked pallets lining the outside His shoes crunched over patches of sandy grit A buzzing security light cast a cone of yellow that faded into the mist Two rusted yellow forklifts parked just outside the service entrance He glanced behind himempty street wet asphalt reflected in the lamplight A man in a hooded coat had trailed him for two blocks earlier Or maybe that was just paranoia Francos warning rang in his head _Keep moving Keep your head down Dont be exposed longer than you have to_ Inside his coat pocket Arnies fingers closed around the cassette recorder the tape with the informants final call Nervous out of breath triumphant _Got it Price Exactly what you asked forjust not where you thought it would be This blows it wide open_ Hed called Claire before leaving the newsroom told her hed be late That was the mistake Shed been in tears worried anxiousasking him to come home and call the authorities Think of us shed said Hed said it would be fine and only a few extra minutes and hed be catching the later red line But those minutes had stretched thin pulled taut like saltwater taffy From inside the warehouse a heavy metal door slammed Arnie stepped closer The air smelled of oil and cold iron Low voices bled through the wallssharp now not cautious He paused just outside nerves fraying One word cut through the night No Then the sound that would live with him for decades two short flat popssuppressed gunfire He shoved the door open adrenaline surging Footsteps echoed as he sprinted into the dim space the tang of gunpowder faint but unmistakable Pallets loomed overhead A shadow shifted between thema trench coat flaring before vanishing through a far exit The door slammed shut behind In the center of the floor lay the informant sprawled on the concrete Arnie dropped to his knees pressed a hand to the mans neck No pulse Eyes wide glassyaccusing him of being too late asking why Police The shout came from behind Flashlights sliced through the dark Arnie turned his hands slick with blood _The informants blood_ I just got here The words came thin swallowed before they reached the air A flashlight beam locked on him then on the body An officers voice hardened Step away sir Arnie eased the man down rose shakily and backed upstraight into another uniform Guilt slammed into him If hed come straight here If hed been faster If he hadnt made that call The last thing he saw before they led him outside was the recorder lying a few feet from the bodyits compartment openthe tape gone missing In his hand was an envelope hed found in the mans pockethe didnt remember taking it but there it was soaked with blood Everything hed worked for felt as if it was sinking off the pier and into the murky waters below This was not supposed to happen And Arnie knew even then there was no coming back from it Chapter 1 Unfinished Business _Peterborough New Hampshire Library Tuesday Morning_ Arnie Price tapped his pencil eraser tip against the timer bulb as if willing the sand to flow faster There he sat at a converted reference table tucked in the corner of the Peterborough New Hampshire library At his elbow the local paper open to the police log and a halfworked New York Times crossword At his feet his snoozing terrier mutt Digby And across from himhis penance a person in need of an ear My 92 year old dadsits there all day in his recliner with the volume way up watching game shows From the 70s no less Linda railed leaning forwardpalms up resting on the table A tented placard perched between them read _Arnie Price Listener Youve Got 20 Minutes Appointments Only_ Placed in front of the opposing seat a laminated sheet that began _Listening Service 10 NonNegotiable Rules_ _What you say is not confidential Im no doctor lawyer or priest_ _Admit a crime Expect a visit from the local PD_ _This is a listening servicenot a conversation_ _I may ask questions Thats it_ Arnie tapped the timer base again as he tried nonchalantly to move rule number 4 along _When the sand runs out the session is over_ Arnie started coming to the library with Digby as a way to find solitude Hed chosen this table for its outoftheway peace and sight lines A creature of habit Arnie always dressed in his tweed jacket with a bow tie and parked himself in the same spot at the same time each Tuesday and Friday Hed become part of the rhythm of the library Then little by little it started People came over sat and just start talking about what was on their minds He never encouragedjust let them talk He liked the spot and the routinebut he needed boundaries so he came up with a compromise solution Price is Rightthat one gets me she sighed shaking her head Says he knows the prices from back then Yells them out Leaning in with exasperated eyes and he gets them wrong raising her palms for exclamation all the time Digbys head popped up as a rumble of thunder vibrated through the walls Arnie shifted his gaze to the secondfloor window to see darkening skies and winds whipping the flag pole Arnie stiffened his neck and shoulders as the library power flickeredfeeling the tension in Digbys neck as he attempted to soothe him Linda continued unmoved He falls asleep I turn off the TVbang he wakes up and we do it all again _Crack_ Arnie twitched Lightning flashed and rain began pelting outside Arnie instinctively reached for his trenchcoat to make sure it was where he expected A door slammed downstairs and a black clad figure turned from the stairs and walked over huncheddripping wet He wore a Red Sox cap with brim pulled down hiding his facial features As he neared the corner of the table he unzipped his dark blue jacket untucked a manilla envelope and thrust out his hand Excuse Me Linda said as she looked over to object wait your turn Its ok Linda Arnie said as he laid the timer on its side halting the flow of sand ensuring session integrity This is for you the man said waiting for Arnie to take ownership His voice was flat transactional Do I know you Arnie asked dipping his head in an effort to see the mans face This aint from me Heretake it he said hurriedly as he thrust the envelope again Arnie kept his hands at his side and looked at the man who was keeping his head down Who gave this to you Arnie asked nodding towards the envelope making it clear he wasnt going to accept the envelope until he knew Dont know Guy in a hat and glasses out in the parking lot maybe ten minutes ago Before the skies opened up Whats his name Didnt say Why me Didnt say that either Did he say anything Just that youd know what it meant The envelope landed on the table with a thwack And that if I stayed more than one minutehed know I went offscript The man pivoted and started to leave Hey Arnie said as he lunged toward the man catching the corner of the table that resulted in knocking over Lindas glasswater splashing out all over Arnie started to move past Linda but froze as he watched the back of the guy rush past the bookshelves and heard him thunder down the stairs Arnie muttered damn then turned back to see Linda trying to swipe off what water she could with her hands So Sorry Linda That was all my fault Let me help you dry off I understandhe was very rude Arnie Linda responded Arnie reached for the Kleenex box pulled out a wad of tissues and started mopping up the table Do you know him No Afraid I dont I didnt get a good look at him Linda said flecking water off her sweater Cant be too many people walking around this town with red streaks in their hair Arnie said while soaking up the last of the liquid Linda rose Youd be surprised Looking down at herself lets finish some other time Im going to grab some paper towels from the bathroom Arnie blinked as he noticed a streak of green flowing from the back of Lindas silver shoulder length hair His attention turned to the dry envelope resting toward the back edge of the table He picked it up flipped in over to undo the clasp and froze On the back flap scrawled in black sharpie read _Unfinished Business_ An adrenaline surge ran through Arnie as he unclipped the manilla folder clasp and pulled out the top half of the content pages to see what this was about Staring back at him on top was a brittle clipping from the _Boston Beacon_ dated thirty years agothe article that had won Arnie the award he kept tucked in the back of his closet His piece on corruption at City Hall The memory was immediate visceralthe stink of the harbor the warehouse floor the weight of the cassette recorder in his pocket The dead Informant in his arms He had walked away with the story He had never walked away from the rest of it He pulled the top page up a bit higher and saw a section of the article encircled in the same black marker In the margin were four words in red_YOU GOT THAT WRONG_ His shoulders tensed as he spotted the section circled Arnie looked up and surveyed the room seeing nothing but the usual The storm had passed as outside streaks of sun were now bouncing off the library windows Digby was settled into a doggie dream feet paddling Arnie strode to the windows at the far end and stared out The parking lot lay empty Another anglenothing on the street Arnie shook his head and clenched his free hand Arnie returned to the table spread out the pages and began to read history As he flipped deeper into the stack he found there was a second note inside on yellowed paper typed by an old machine_This is what you needed May not be too late_ He grabbed his notebook flipped to the back page and wrote Unfinished Business across the top Below it a few clipped linesenough to anchor the details before they slipped He starred the _greaseoil smell_ entry Arnie put down his pencil stuffed the papers back into the envelope fastened the clasp and stared at the label There he satlined face thinning hair a man whod thought his Boston nightmare was behind him Old instincts stirredcuriosity dread the itch to chase a truth that might not want to be found Arnie tilted the hour glass back up and watched the sand drain through as he packed up the listening table for the day In the timer bulb his reflection stayed locked in placedeep creases across his forehead Wake uplistening is over for today Digby rose and sat at attention Arnie clipped in Digbys collar picked up his things and led the way to the exit Later that afternoon Arnie fished the black cased phone out of the dusty breakfront drawer As he moved towards the kitchen table he typed out _Franco we have unfinished business call me_ He walked over to the kitchen table where the documents were neatly laid out clicked a series of pics and pressed send Chapter 2 Sparring Partners _Stonegate Assisted Living Campus Tuesday Night_ Arnie and Digby navigated the crushed stone path between Stonegate buildings his gaze drifting toward the town below then back to the windows above the path as Digby worked the thawing ground At the entrance to Shattuck Hallthe hub of the complex where community came to lifeArnie held the door wide for Digby Atrium benches were filled with seniors waiting for the Activity room doors to open One senior couple twirled to the drifting sounds of Dionne Warwick looking for the way to San Jose The whiteboard easel blocked the entrance like a gatekeeper _Partner Bridge 615pm__Doors open at 6 No late admittance__Resident Coordinator E March_ __ _Line Drawing with Royce_ _Moved to Friday 2pm_ _Colored Pencils Provided_ Arnie slowed long enough to take it all in Then followed Digby who led with precision as they took a sharp left and made their way through the back service hallwaytheir agreed special entrance They worked their way along the overflowing metal shelving lining the walls cast in shadows with only emergency lighting activated At the far end over by a set of fridges they ran into a barrelchested man early sixties clad in a blue hoodie and jeans loaded up with supplies His eyes lit when he saw Arnie approach Give me a hand here he said trying to keep things stablelosing the battle as plastic clattered across the tile Royce Bennett winced A little help Oh sorry Royce Arnie said as if not having heard the prior request snatching the bags from the floor Connie keeping you busy he asked as they moved to the door Royce rolled his eyes Not just her he said as he pushed through into the brightly lit main room He jutted an elbow toward the silver haired woman with a tightly gripped clipboard lecturing a helper throwing her free hand up in the air Royce tilted his head towards Arnie and spoke out of the side of his mouth Evelyn is in fine form tonight Chair yoga and pencil coloring classes didnt break their stuff down As he wrestled a case of water bottles onto the countertop he offered words of warningproceed with caution The comment carried further than intended Evelyn looked over and barked Roycewhy are the bridge boxes not out on table 3 Do I have to do everything myself Arnie paused waiting for the room to reset before moving again Royce shrugged his shoulders and responded with his patented _oops_ smile Before Arnie could step into the room an arm tucked through the crook of his elbowCONNIE CLARK printed neatly on the volunteer label affixed to her cardigan There he is We missed you at dinner tonight she said escorting him toward the far end of the counter and pointing out where to place the bags Hot date She gave him a playful poke Huh he said eyes following Digby who was padding over to his regular spotdog bed laid out next to Arnies regular seat Ohlate lunch Arnie responded as he eased away and motioned the need to accompany Digby The doors opened and a throng of seniors entered in slow motion as if released into the room in search of Black Friday specials Table one was empty when Arnie settled into his regular north seat with Digby lying on a shag matt gnawing on a bully stickitems on Evelyns checklist Royce sauntered over with snack contraband ignoring the prominently displayed No food at tables during play placard Evelyn glared at him as she approached the table while Connie trailing a couple of steps behind provided _tsk tsk_ sound effects What Royce said while munching a chocolate chip cookie as Evelyn pointed at the sign Says duringwe havent started He popped the rest of the cookie in his mouth and plopped down across from Arnie Royce wiped his hands together as Arnie dealt Lets do this Arnie Other than bid chatter at other tables and the Carpenters overhead they sat in silence Royce cleared his throat No response Well Evelyn chided Connie took one hand off her held cards and lightly touched Arnies arm You ok Arnie Arnie swiveled his blank gaze down to her hand then respondedof course why You dealtyour bid dear Oh Good point he responded With the women taking the first three hands decisively Royce put a flat palm to the tip of his other hand and said timeout What are you talking about Evelyn bristled I need a word with my partner Royce responded There are no timeouts in bridge Evelyn shot back Connie moved her hand and her bridge box emptied on the floor Oh Im so sorry she said as she pushed her chair back and leaned over to start picking them upgiving Royce a wink Evcan you help me pick these up Dont bother Evelyn huffed as she got up and started to walk to the supply table Royce leaned across the table Arnie whats up Were not on our usual wave length You let Evelyn trump an Ace You havent returned my leads You ok to play I cringe at the idea of Evelyn gloating for the next week Ill be finejust bad run of cards Arnie said as he patted his jacket pocket as if checking for something _Bloop_the unmistakable sound of a notification message Royce raised an eyebrow Weve all been there Connie offered as she raised up from the floor Evelyn returned with a replacement bid box and dropped it at Connies right hand Always good to have backup Royce rejoined as Connie dealt the final hand of the round Bidding proceeded with Royce pushing to a game contract in response to Arnies bidding encouragement A wicked smile crossed Evelyns face as she slammed down a red double card You are going down Any questions she exclaimed as she threw down the Ace of Spades Royce lowered his head and slouched back in his seat Arnie stared at the table unmoving his pocket lit by a sudden glow Arnie jumped as the sound of xylophonic notes burst from his jacket He tucked his head and reached into his jacket pocket pulling the fabric away from the smartphone screenFrancos name clearly visible You going to answer that Royce asked Dont you dare Arnie Silence that thing Evelyn commanded Arnie swiped decline then pulled the phone out and flipped the silence toggle Sorry about that he said slipping the phone back into his pocket and picking up his cards in one fluid motion When did you start carrying Connie chuckled I thought you were stuck in the flip phone dark ages True Arnie said as he rearranged his cards preparing to lay them down Its for the camera he said Now lets play Evelyn said Arnielets see that dummy Youre in 4 Hearts Doubled Royces eyes brightenedthank you partner he crooned as Arnie mechanically laid his cards down in suit columns What No spades Evelyn grimaced the sound of Digby gnawing his bone the only response He stopped chewingears up As Royce studied the table a contentious conversation drifted across the room with grinding of walker legs on tile now heading in their direction Evelyn March where are you came the grunting voice of Phylis Hudderbing as she pushed her way forward Phylis looked like a ninja fighter with black bandana black slacks and a black MachoMan Randy Savage TShirttwo sizes too big Evelyn stood with arms raised palms out Settle down Phylis What seems to be the problem Phylis screeched forward and took two more steps The WWE Last Man Standing Match is supposed to be up on the big screen in here now Ive been waiting all month for this event and got my ticket she pulled from her basket and waved at Evelyn Bridge is always in here until 830 Dont know what youre talking about Evelyn shot back Royce bounced up and moved in between the ladies May I Royce asked holding out his hand for the ticket Phylis slapped it in his hand Royce read and then smiled Not to worry Phylis The pay per view starts at 9pm Looks like your ticket got smudged The nine does look like an eight he said with a sympathetic voice Youre just a bit early Im going to this as well How about I join you He handed back the ticket pointing to the time Oh Take a seat for a couple of minutes and Ill be right with you as your evening escort He flipped down the seat of her walker and returned his attention to the table Watch and learn he said with a sparkle in his eyes He started strong got greedy with a finesse and then watched the hand unravel He held out hope for the last trick but Connie squashed that You should have gotten the children off the street big guy she said as she placed the last trump card on the table Evelyn reached out for a high five Royce sank back defeated And Arnie picked up the phone_one new voicemail_ Phylis looked over at Royce with steely eyes Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face Chapter 3 Old Ground _Harlows in Peterborough Wednesday Afternoon_ Harlows in Peterborough was the kind of spot you could hide in plain sight The dark wood paneling absorbed what little daylight managed to sneak in while the walls were crowded with Boston sports memorabilia and ad signs for products from bygone times The place was noisy with restless kids and raised parental voices competing with classic rock and construction workers unwinding after the days job site Where private voices didnt carry and your business stayed your business Arnie squinted in attempt to adjust to the darkness and see if Franco Jona had already arrived and grabbed a seat Hed had called Franco within minutes of receiving the cryptic message that morning to arrange the meet up Besides Harlows set a water bowl by the door That meant Digby was welcome That counted for something The leash tightened Arnie lurched forward and followed the lead through the maze of activity Digby nuzzled his nose into a jean pants leg the only visibly lit part of the person seated at a darkened back booth with as to be expected optimal sightlines for all of the restaurant comings and goings The hand from a leather jacket white sleeved arm reached down to scratch Digbys neck and offer a pretzel nugget As Arnie closed in the dim table lamplight reflected on a grizzled man in his late fifties salt and pepper Italian slick back hair and sharp blue eyes Three days of stubble lent him that familiar mix of mystery and tough warmth Franco plucked the buds from his ears Silencers he said as he pocketed them and extended his hand I took the liberty of ordering Chowdah he continued as Arnie pulled off his coat and settled in on the other side And couple of Sam Adams he continued as the waitress set a couple of long necks in front of them on the table Weve got to stop meeting like this Franco grinned as he spread his arms to welcome Arnie to the booth Indeed Arnie replied as he laid his coat on the bench and settled in Franco raised his bottle tilting the neck toward Arnie who was fidgeting to pull out the envelope from his leather satchel You ok Im gooda bit on my heels He opened the clasp and passed the manilla envelope over to Franco who spread the contents on the inner part of the tablenear the light away from water rings Franco pulled out his smartphone and took pics before acknowledging what he was looking at Turning back to Arnie you recognize the handwriting No Arnie replied That article is 33 years old but the writing looks fresh Agree Franco said as he returned his attention to the document Can you run a handwriting analysis for me Arnie said and then sifting through for another document and you any good with typewriter forensics Opening his hand to receive the document and pushing the paper back a bit let me see what I can doon both fronts Franco positioned the documents and snapped some additional pics What do you make of all this Arnie pulled out his notebook and replied that the past wont let go and that I havent heard the last from whomever sent this Then tapping his pencil eraser on the handwritten _YOU GOT THIS WRONG_ implies I was used to help bring down the wrong guy That Mayor Campbell wasnt the one orchestrating the kickbacks Inflating invoiceslining pockets Then with a deep exhale and that I got my informant killed in the process Arnie traced the water ring in front of him with the tilted bottom edge of his Sam Adams Dont go down that road again Arnie That wasnt your fault I was there Pause Im the one that took his eye off the prize Then trying to lighten the moment Unfinished Business tells me youve got someone in your corner He tilted his Sam Adams as a signal Weve got some work to do What do you say we finish this the right way Arnie pursed his lips nodded and clinked long necks The waitress approached with the Chowder and placed it down in front of each of them Anything else I can get you gents Franco smiled with his eyes as he said yayoyster crackers She reached into her apron pocket and pulled out two packets and flopped them on the table Franco tilted his head down towards Digby She returned his smile and dropped another packet on the table Within a heartbeat she was back in the maelstrom to soothe a screaming four year old that had spilt their chocolate milk all over the floor While Franco was pulling out a pair of readers he picked up the Beacons Harborlight article for another look Without looking up did you get a good look at the guy who delivered this Not really Arnie replied He had a Red Sox hat pulled down over his face wore blue jacket and blue jeans Age Voice Distinguishing features Franco rattled off Arnie stared at the packet as if he was trying to visualize the moment Id say midtwenties my height slim He had a red dye streak in his hair that snuck out under his cap Could be a mechanic Pointing to the envelopegrease stains and he had an autobody shop smell Franco raised his eyes anything else Arnie thought for a beat then spoke Said he met a guy with dark glasses and ball cap in the parking lot He paused then pressed the tip of his pencil to the library location on the town business map the pub used for placemats Any chance you have get access to street video from outside the library Mendez Franco raised his head and grinned thats a call worth making Then registering Arnies comment so weve got two guys were on the lookout for Nicedoubles our chances What time did all this go down Arnie thought 1120 am I remember looking at the sand in the hourglass just before he showedand there was a wicked strong thunderstorm that passed through Ill follow up with Detective Mendez she should be able to get me access to the video were looking for He pulled up his texting app typed in a message Franco sat back clasped his hands behind his head and looked straight across the table What are we looking at here Arnie He mulled Unfinished Businessis this about cleaning up the past Preventing something in the future Franco released his hands and took another pull Arnie looked at the Harborlight article and handwriting one more time and with fire in his voice This is a call to action not a scoldinglet me know as soon as you have something On it They dug into their chowder steam rising from their bowls and wheels turning in their minds Chapter 4 Let it Flow _Stonegate Assisted Living Campus Thursday Morning_ The last half mile climb to the Stonegate entrance was a killer especially with a blustery headwind Arnie leaned into the hill shortened his stride and pushed forward The muscle memory was apparent but to say hed lost a step or two over the past few years wouldnt be off the mark He made the turn passed through the stone arch and dug deep arms pumping and feet pounding on the asphalt as the terrain flattened and the Shattuck patio came into view Arnie let out a primal groan as he arrived at the landing immediately bending at the waist with hands on hipschest heaving as he fought for air Why do you put yourself through that said a familiar voice arm extendedholding the water bottle Arnie had left on one of the patio tables Arnie raised his headstill bent at the waist There stood Royce clad in his standard hoodie and shorts shaking his head Arnie reached out for the bottle as he stood now seeing Phylis nearby in a catlike stance dressed head to toe in white bandana tied tight above her brows Its my meditation Arnie panted as he sucked in a long pull of water Opens my mind he said as steam rose from his sweat drenched torso Good morning Phylis Arnie said She continued moving arms flowing eyes forward What are you two up to Tai Chi I think shes parting a wild horses mane right now Royce responded while watching Phylis complete the move and turn towards them She worked her way across the stone pavers Without a word of greeting she reached out her hand water bottle You dont want to drink she cut him off Stick out your hand palm up Arnie complied Phylis removed the bottle lid and began pouring water over Arnies palm He instinctively closed his fingers and cupped his handwater filling until it spilled over She continued to pour What are you doing Youre wasting perfectly good She cut him off again Separate your fingers Arnie eased them apartwater now trickled over his palm and through the gaps in his fingers Be a flowing rivernot pond scum And with that she tightened the cap handed back the bottle and returned to her exerciseresuming her movements arms carving slow arcs through the air Twenty minutes later Arnie padded out to the kitchen in his terry cloth robe damp hair splayed in all directions towel draped over his shoulder He poured an orange juice grabbed a blueberry muffin off the counter and strode to the kitchen where the contents were spread across the table Arnie ripped off a piece of muffin and stared at the array of documents on the table accompanied by the energetic whisking of Digbys tail on the carpet Before he could get hand to mouth he smiled leaned over and opened his palm Digby suctioned the morsel without leaving a trace Im missing something boy He picked up the lead page of the Harborlight article and stared at the handwritten note while finishing off his juice What is it he asked as he tilted his head and gazed up at the overhead fan whooshing accompaniment to Digbys tail Arnie nodded and jerked his head back down Fancy a walk he said as he offered the last bit of muffin and scratched the top of Digbys head Give me five Lets see if we can learn anything new at the library He stood took his dishes to the sink and muttered to himself on his way to the bedroom come on Arnie Its just like riding a bike Hey Ive already had my workout today Arnie exclaimed as Digby lunged forward gasping as he practically choked himself in his effort to quicken the pace Peterborough was alive at nine with early spring warmth continuing and people coming out of New England hibernation No different at the library as Arnie entered the library to find a queue of patrons at the main desk He glanced over at his regular listening station to see a local realtor huddled with a middleaged couple pamphlets splayed across the desk laptop at the ready He was startled out of his gaze when a perky voice spoke from behind near floor level Mr Price we werent expecting you today Arnie turned to see one of the librarian interns with a stack of books in one hand petting Digby with the other Im afraid you and Digby are going to have to set up She stopped then laughed Ohwait No listening today Arnie nodded as Digby sucked up the attention Whew thought maybe Id forgotten Its pretty hectic around here today She rose smiled and leaned down for one last pat You have a great day Mr Price I see youre busy Quite a bundle there Arnie said Before you go do you remember seeing a guy who delivered me an envelope yesterday around 1115 Red Sox cap red streak in his hair She thought for a moment Sorry Mr Price Didnt see anything I was working down in the childrens room yesterday You think its hectic todaythis is nothing compared to story time with twenty four and fiveyearolds She shuddered and then recaptured her smile and started to walk off She pivoted Oh you might check with Roger He was on yesterday and remembers all kinds of stuff she winked Great Arnie replied I just saw him with the push cart He was going out to get the drop off books She waved to Digby spun and walked off towards the Fiction shelves on the far side of the room Arnie retraced his steps from yesterday over to the elevator and then out the window From there he could see a young man with a cart bent down next to a big green metal bin He checked the site lines pulled out his pocket notebook and made a note Arnie listened to a fiveminute diatribe on abused library books learned the other staffer was off yesterday thanked Roger and moved on He walked with Digby out to the sidewalk and started the trek back Within mere steps they came to a streetlamp that demanded Digbys nasal attention As Arnie waited he noticed a small cluster of groundout cigarette butts and nudged them with the toe of his shoefresh While Digbys interrogation continued Arnie cocked his head towards the library and gazed up at the secondfloor windowhis listening table the realtor still midpitch Ill be damned boy Thats a straight shot from here The leash jerked forward as Digby was satisfied and ready to move on Arnie glanced backthe river rushing below the library windows reflecting light Suddenly Digby growled hair standing on edge as he sniffed along the stone wallArnie clenched his hand and tightened his grip on the leash He looked down Nothing there but a dirty puddle with street sand leaves and a wadded gum wrapper Arnie lifted his gaze swept his eyes across the street and then gave a gentle tug on the leash Come on boy nothing to see Digby resisted but then relented as Arnie pulled a bit harder Lets grab a paper on the way back They always have a treat for you That did the trick as Digby lifted his head immediately on hearing treat They crossed over and hiked the seven steps up to the Stationary front door Mr Price wasnt expecting to see you this morning came the shopkeepers response as the overhead door bells clattered You have a new routine she said as she reached under the counter and came around biscuit in one hand New York Times in the other Looking down at Digby this one wanted to stretch his legs Im just along for the ride He paid up and they were back out on the sidewalk within a minute Digby still licking his lips Ready to climb the hill back Arnie prodded as he tucked the paper under his arm Theyd only made it to Grove Street when Digbys leash pulled hard to the left Digby come on This way Arnie pulled back but Digby tried to press aheadtwo legs up in the air pushing with his hind limbs and growling Arnie spun as if ready to apologize but no one was there He loosened the lead to prevent choking and Digby pressed forward He looked up ahead and squinted I dont see anything Come on Digby lets not make a scene Digby persisted Arnie followed spreading his fingers slightly on the leash handle and loosening the grip enough so that Digby had breathing room Their pace quickened and as they reached Putnam Park Digby tuggedsignaling he wanted to cross Arnie checked for traffic and stepped out into the crosswalk with Digby cutting across Halfway across the street Arnie looked over as he heard an engine rev and a ballcapped head dip into the passenger seat of a black sedan Tires squealed as the car pulled out in a hurry Digby beelined to the curb where the car had parked sniffing as if in the midst of forensic evidence collection Nothing but sidewalk and the residue of footsteps Arnies eyes followed the car in the distance and then back to where they stoodat one of the smaller stone bridges Arnie looked over at the flowing water and pulled out the smartphone from his pocket He lifted the phone framed the street and snapped a photo He pecked out a text with one finger Run a trace Then hit send Opened voicemail_Ive got some answers Standing by_ Arnie slipped the phone back into his pocket and gave the leash a tug Digby fell into step Chapter 5 Picture This _Stonegate Arnies Apartment Thursday Afternoon_ Arnies Stonegate apartment was quiet except for cable news keeping Digby company in the living room and the fridge compressor that kicked on and off emitting an icy crackling sound Arnie stood and stared at a blizzard of folders note pages and yellowed clippings strewn across his kitchen table To the side on a pulledout chair rested a halfemptied bankers box _Harborlight 94 City Hall_ inked on the side The musty basement smell of something closed up for thirty years overpowered the room Arnie set down his lukewarm coffee reached into the box and pulled out a set of polaroids The brittle rubber band disintegrated as soon as he touched itpictures loosening in his palm The lower glossy white of each photo was identified with location and date in black sharpiesurveillance research Boston construction sites Questionable meet ups with chain link occasionally sneaking into the pics He sifted through with noticeable intent stopping from time to time for a longer look Halfway through the deckhe froze Fan Pier 31994 Black Sedan Billy Lazzaro getting out of the backhis driver holding the door open Mayor Campbell shaking Billys hand Arnie pulled the photo with one hand and returned the others to the boxstuffing them between two folders so theyd stay together He flipped the pic His own note stared back at him Ask VA Campbell Link He covered VA with his thumb and pressed down harder than necessary Then flipped the photo back over and set it beside the Harborlight article The fingers of his empty hand twitched as if expecting to find a cigarettedeath sticks hed given up for Claire years ago Its that time again came the energized WMUR anchors voice Several 2028 hopefuls are quietly forming exploratory committees ahead of next years firstinthenation primary Our reporter Arnie picked up the remote and pressed the mute Then bent over and pressed the phone icon next to Francos name then speaker Franco here What have you got for me Mixed bag right now Lets start with forensics Arnie eased around the table and picked up his notebookpencil wedged in the pages Pencil in hand shoot Francos voice came through clipped and reportlike Handwriting within past 7 days lefthanded high pressure He paused as if sifting through for next set of words worth voicing Smudging indicates the writer wore a hand covering So he wears a glove on his left hand Arnie said matteroffactly Any idea the type of material Paper ruffling Here it is Franco continued says here likely latex leather or vinyl Can rule out nylon spandex If I can get the original Ill be able to Arnie flinched as the doorbell chimed followed by the rapping of knuckles on solid wood Knockknock Arnie you in there Arnie hesitated then leaned in towards the phone Hold tight Ill call you back Be right there he called out over his shoulder Dont mind me Arnie Franco said Keep the line openIll go on mute And do say hi to Connie for me Arnie clicked the volume buttonthen nudged it up twice more He dropped the remote on the table and headed for the door As he reached the foyer he heard an engine rumble and Connie straining to talk You coming This is heavy Arnie opened the door wide enough for his body to block the pathway in Connie stood in front of him with a large wicker basket filled with fruit cushioned by bright Easter basket grass A big pineapple at the center a redandwhite Happy FiveYear Anniversary ribbon draped across the handle Let me in dear so I can put this down Connie said as she moved to pass through Wow thats quite a basket you have therehere Arnie said reaching out to take hold from the bottom Oh no need Connie replied with a stiffened breath I need to set this up for its full effect She again tried to move forwardArnie smiled and held his ground He took control of the package and continued the place is a mess and theres no where to set it down right now I dont want you to see the place like this Sounds like you have company in with you Im sure theyd like to see this as well Oh nothats just the TV I leave it on for Digby Really Connie said She tightened her eyes and leaned slightly to her right Arnie shifted with her She rose onto her toes for a second look He tightened his grip on the basket Connie pressed her lips together and released her grip I really wanted to set this up for you Claire was the one that came up with this remembrance for our resident relations group Did you know that Her eyes lighting up Arnie cradled the basket as she continued She thought people needed to know they were a welcome part of the Stonegate community beyond just the day they arrived He rotated the basket and took it all in Yesthat sounds very much like Claire Arnie backed up pulling the basket through the door and started to close it with his foot For Digbywed never forget him Connie said releasing a small cloth pouch into the basket as Arnie backed up Thank you Connie This means a lot He eased the door shut with his foot The latch clicked Digby trotted over nostrils leading the way as Arnie placed the basket down on the glass top coffee table That got you up eh Arnie said as he opened the pouch and pulled out an elk antler This should keep you busy for a while Digby looked up for confirmation wrapped his teeth around the chew and padded back to his matt to get to work Arnie pulled the remote out of his pocket and pressed mute as he returned to the kitchen table Im back he said as he reached over for a folder marked Campbell Invoices He thumbed through them as he spoke A thought came to me while I stepped away Im listening Franco responded Arnie flipped through a few more pages then pausing on an invoice labeled Fan Pier Pantinari Construction Are you able to tell if a signature is fake then adjusting his glasses for a closer look or possibly a stamp Depends Franco responded You looking at an original or a copy Copy Arnie replied tilting the paper to get different angles as he focused in on the signature line Id need to see it Send me what you got The original would give us the best shot especially for forging Wed need a control to compare with What if I could get you the original Arnie said looking over at the bankers box And how are you going to do that Franco asked Visit the Beacon archives All of my raw research material is there and I know there are some originals I was only able to pull out copies before I left Then Arnies voice picked up energy There are other materials there toobackground files Cassette interviews Whoa Franco shot back Im not so sure thats a good idea You could be heading into the lions den Oh come on What harm is there Who needs to know There are eyes on you Franco said with noticeable tension in his voice Doesnt feel like a warning Feels like a nudge I need to see those materialsand get my hands on some originals Arnie said as fingering through the bankers box and raising and open palm I see your point Arnie Franco said in an even tone but lets coordinate the timing You need to tread carefully Arnie put down the papers and picked the Fan Pier photo back up Fair enough Ill make a call to schedule the visit and let you know Dont go solo on me Franco said in response I hear you Arnie said as he clicked off his eyes locked on the photo gripped in his hand Arnie looked over at Digby hard at work gnawing away with the antler wedged between his overlapped front paws He dropped the photo on the table and walked over to the wall hook and lifted the leashclip jangling Digby was at his side in a shot Antler jutting from his mouth Youll need to make a choice Digby Walk with mebone free or head back over to your spot I need some fresh air to help me thinkand I want to check the mail before dinner Digby sat bone clattering to tile Arnie clipped him in and they headed out the door Arnies eyes swept the terrain as they stepped off the porch and their feet hit the crushed stone They turned toward Shattuck Hall Digby nose to ground and Arnie walking at a deliberate pace In less than five minutes they were in the post office style mailroom numbered boxes five rows deep lining the wall The fluorescent light flickered as they entered Most residents came in the morning This hour belonged to no one but the cleaning crew Digby sniffed at the garbage pail while Arnie bent down and removed the mail slot contents Arnie swung the door closedwalked over to the hightop table where seniors sifted and recycled paper He worked through the stack Copy of this months Stonegate Scene marketing pieces bank statement Then Arnie stiffened A white envelope no return address no postmark Typed across the front _Arnie Price Stonegate_ Arnie sucked in a deep breath hesitated then tucked the envelope inside the resident news and pocketed it Then pushed the other papers into the blue bin and gave a gentle tug of the leash They exited the building and headed toward the residents main walking path Digby lead the way sweeping his nose back and forth collecting fragments of todays smells left behind Just before the foot bridge Arnie slowed his pace Lets sit for a bit he said as he settled in on a well wooden bench with stone supports Arnie wrapped the leash around one of the arms pulled a treat that Digby eagerly accepted and then assumed a sphinx like pose Arnie glanced aroundthen pulled out the Stonegate Scene and flipped to the page holding the envelope He put his finger under one end of the flap and deliberately opened itnoting that the fastening gave way easily Inside two polaroid photos Nothing else He lifted his head feigning that hed read something he was pondering so he could take another surveillance sweep Digby was contenthead between his paws Arnie tilted the envelope photos falling into his waiting palm Both pictures were polaroids with distinct differences One had a yellowed border showing a construction site and written with black marker Fan Pier 94 Same site as the photo hed just been looking at but no people in this picture He turned his attention to the second picture It was him walking Digby Yesterday His jaw tightened Digby sat up at attention Arnie stuffed the pictures back into the envelope rose from the bench untied the leash and left the Stonegate Scene flapping on the bench seat He pulled out his phone activated voice and spoke phone Boston Beacon switchboard He pressed the phone to his ear Boston Beacon Afternoon Is Sean Cahill still there One moment Cahill Seanits Arnie A beat Havent heard your voice in ages To what do I owe the pleasure Still handling archives Same old Arnie straight to the point Everythings digital these days Everything Ok not everything Yes Archives gathering dust with pre 2000 relics Why do you ask I need to look through Harborlight research materials from 94 Preedit drafts interviews fact finding A quiet chuckle Cant let go of the past eh Then before Arnie could respond Yeah I can get you access Melissa Thomas oversees A pause You remember her Even better Arnie responded I worked with her through much of this Shell know exactly where to point me She runs a tight ship Cahill tacked on Time limits Sightseeing only No electronic devices Thatll workwhen Monday Three oclock Two hours Dubliners after Works for me _Click_ The sound of rushing stream water escorted Arnie and Digby as they made their way back to the apartment Arnie held on to the leash with one hand and his pocketed phone with the other Monday he said Chapter 6 Not the Messenger _Stonegate TV Lounge Thursday Night_ Royce lounged in his favorite brown leather Barcalounger a seat now bearing the permanent imprint of his backside Connie had transformed the side table into a miniature spread trail mix lemon bars and her trademark With and Without pitchersmocktail versions of something citrusy and suspiciously festive Evelyn knitted steadily yarn sliding through her fingers without a glance down Digby lay curled at her feet snoring softly Phylis stood near the back wall in a sleeveless black sweatshirt working through a set of twopound curls counting under her breath Arnie sat off to the side only halfwatching A folded _New York Times_ crossword stretched across his lap a yellow legal pad tucked behind filled with notes in his usual shorthand He lifted the paper now and then to jot thoughts before returning the crossword to the top A contestant spun and called a letter T Royce muttered Gotta be a T Three letters flashed It_ a _ _ _ t _ _ _ t _ _ _ Royce squinted face contorted in concentration Its a shotgun to Evelyn sighed shaking her head pulling to free more yarn Bartlett quotes must have missed that one Lemon Bar Connie asked laying a napkin and small plate on the arm table next to Arnie balancing three other servings and moving on without waiting for a response Arnie still scribbling didnt even look up Its a mystery to me I _know_ that Royce huffed She needs more letters Two spins later a contestant beamed Id like to solve the puzzle Its a mystery to me Royce groaned and turned toward Arnie How do you do that Without even trying Weve _got_ to get you on the show Spotting the confection parked next to him Royce adjusted his focus and reached for the bar The clicking of needles stopped as Evelyn pulled a bit more yarn Arnie what happened over at the library Tuesday she said as she held out her work for stitch inspection Royce swiveled his head mid bite Arnie pursed his lips and penciled in a crossword answer Dont know what youre talking aboutjust another day of listening Connie settled into the couch next to Evelyn Evplease go on giving a side eyed look and placing down two cups of rooibos tea Dropping her knitting into her lap Evelyn followed up Sherry called me from the library Said Arnie had a commotion Tuesday morning with one of his listeners and did I know what was going on Of course I said no leaning over to pick up the tea cup in front of her but that Id find out Royce lowered the volume and pushed his chair upright lemon bar still in hand Arnie looked up Connie and Evelyn were now perched on the edge of the couch tea forgotten watching him He returned their eye contact just someone who didnt like waiting his turn Connie smiled as she took a sip Please Arnie Youve got to do better than that And you were distracted at bridge because someone broke your scheduling rule Evelyn piggybacked And you wouldnt let me in your apartment because Digby might wake up Connie added You forgot to draw the side blinds I could see papers everywhere she said as they both leaned forwardwaiting You have to admit Arnie youve been off the last couple of days And your bridge play was Arnie turned slowly toward Royce Pause Off Another beat By your standards I mean Royce said as he pushed the last bite of lemon bar into his mouth All eyes in the room were on Arnie Digby twitched in his sleep Arnie uncrossed his legs flattened the crossword in his lap and lifted his hands in mock surrender A guy Ive never met before interrupted Lindas session He dropped an envelope and left Pause Just like that Ive been trying to figure out who he is What was in the envelope Evelyn immediately shot back Did you get a look at the guy Royce said simultaneously as he reached over for the pad sitting next to him a rough line sketch drawn out of Phylis with enlarged bicep curling a weight He flipped the page over Can you describe him Royce asked picking up a lead pencil Thats part of what threw me Arnie said It happened quick and I never got a look at his face Close your eyes Connie said Take yourself back Arnie scratched his temple and decided to go along With eyes shut he listed out Blue Red Sox cap pulled low Sandy hair pulled behind his ears a red streak flowing down Any facial features show Guess at age Anything stand out Royce asked as his pencils edge moved horizontally with the pad Connie put down her tea cup and walked around to look over Royces shoulder Midtwenties slender slightmaybe five nine The brim kept his face in shadow He opened his eyes come to think of it I did see from below the nosepointy chin with a little light fuzz Then finished off with He smelled like oil Grease on his handsleft a smear on the envelope Impressive Connie said as she saw Royces sketch come to life Royce lowered the pad Sounds like the kid at Hamlins Garage Jacksonname stitched on his overalls I remember seeing him when I was getting an oil change last month on my caddy Connie circled behind Royce and leaned over his other shoulder as he shaded in the lines Arnie gave Digbys collar a slight tuga signal Digby knew well He stood and shook Connie looked over Does he need to go out Arnie looked up at the wall clock yes its that time He rose and gestured to Digby lets get to your evening business Digby He paused as he walked behind Connie and Evelyn leaning over Royces shoulder He took a couple of pics of the sketchno sound Thats no fuzz Evelyn said That looks like stubbleyou need to soften that And his chinwhats a cleft doing in there You need to give the coveralls some color Connie said into Royces left ear Just before Arnie got to the door for a clean getaway a hand reached out and tugged on his sleeve Spot meeight count Phylis said nodding her head down toward her hand now clutching a fivepound weight He hesitatedthen stepped in behind her and braced his hands beneath her wrist She lifted Counted Breathed On returning the dumbbell with a thump she gripped the towel draped around her neck and wiped her face She reached for her water bottle and stared up at Arnie Its the message not the messenger Arnie held her gaze a moment Then he nodded once and pushed through the door He stopped in the hallway and sent the sketch to Franco _Messenger Jackson at Hamlins garage Can you pay a visit tomorrow Hell likely bolt on me_ _Thumbs up_ emoji returned within seconds Arnie pocketed his phone and lingered hearing the group realizing Arnie had left the room He heard Evelyns voice first reverberating off the walls hey he got out of the room without telling us what was in the envelope Arnie tugged the leash knowing they needed to move before they came looking The last person he heard before out of earshot was Connie Oh he will Count on it Chapter 7 Trace Elements _Peterborough Library Friday Morning_ Bright sunshine streamed into the library through the large south facing windows Arnie sat in his usual spot behind his listening desk Digby gnawing on his new antler bone treasure Arnie wore his usual tweed jacket bow tie combo The only difference today was the pair of trainers he had on double knotted The sand in the timer was half drained as Marty a library regular whod come over on the Stonegate shuttle reached into his jacket pocket Arnie was staring at bullet points in his notebook pencil in hand Its gotten serious Arnie My brothers not speaking to me Marty pulled out a single trifolded piece of paper and slapped it on the table Arnies head shot up checking the roomthen refocusing back to the session We were kids Marty shook his head and picked up the paper starting to unfold it This isnt binding Marty said waving the paper like a rattle What are you talking about Marty An IOU from 1962 Now whacking the paper against his hand And Marty leaned over and flattened the paper on the table pressing with his fingers He pushed it across to Arnie Arnie studied the note one eyebrow lifting _Joey IOU a 1952 Roger Maris card cus I wrecked yours Marty_ Whats the story Arnie said as he looked up and shaded his eyes from the glare assaulting him through the window Marty sighed I clipped his card to my bike to make noise while I rode All the kids were doing it Shoulders slumped I took the wrong card He was furious This is a copy right Arnie asked looking back down Yeah as soon as he found it he kept the original He wants a replacementor 20K Martys energy returning Its no goodright Statute of limitations Pause Signed by a minor Marty said as he poked his finger down on the note Arnie looked up hands back up to shade his eyes Why now Arnie asked pushing the paper back toward Marty Mom just passed and we were sorting through things at her house You knowfiguring who gets what He opened a shoebox and found the note He got worked up all over again If the card was worthless would he still be angry Arnie stiffened Movement across the street Arnie shot up and squinted now both hands at his brow A figure stood across the street where Arnie had found the cigarette buttsstaring back cap pulled low Arnie fished for his phone in his jacket pocket and pushed down the timer Martythink on that Can you watch DigbyIll be right back Arnie said as he navigated around the table and hurried toward the stairs sneakers squeaking on the tilethen thudding down one flight and pushing the exit door open with his shoulder He stood on the landing and looked at the solitary lamppostthen up and down Pine Street Nothing He walked out to the curb and then the honk of a horn shrieked as a black sedan pulled out of the parking lot and headed east Arnie grabbed his phone A second horn blared as a car turning into the lot blocked his view Arnie waited for the traffic to clear and then crossed over to the lamppost Phone in handhe placed a call while he caught his breath leaning against the pole ArnieI was just going to swing by I had a Did you get a trace on the sedan Arnie overrode still breathing heavy Not yetyou ok Yeahanother visit Why the hold up Mass plates No crime has been committed Cant fast track it in NHhave to work with Mass PD What happened Just being watched Arnie walked the area around the lamppost as he spoke You talk with Jackson Yeah You want it now Give me what you got Nervous kid but I could tell this wasnt planned He was cutting through and guy approached him in patio area outside the library Gave him 100 to deliver the envelope to you at your table Youd know what it meant Arnie spotted more recent cigarette butts reached in his pocket for a baggie and tweezers hed brought with him today He plucked one and rotated it a foot in front of his face What else Paper crumpled on the other endsaid the guy wore an overcoat and Scottish capit poured within a minute of meeting Oh heres something distinctivehanded him the envelope with a black gloved hand Another beat and slight chuckle Kids got a sharp nose Said the guy reeked of black licorice Strong Arnie still in a squat position scanned and caught side of a bright blue wrapper He tweezered it and put it in a bagthen smoothed the paper with his fingers on the outside Black Jack licorice gum on the label Keep trying on the trace And let me know if you find anything on the handwriting Im going to see if I can get my hands on some originals You want me to drive in with you No But lets plan on meeting up after How about our old spot Google maps shows its still there 630 Ill have my usual Ill be there Pause Arnie youre being watched Dont do anything alone Click Arnie gave one last look around then headed back in By the elevator at top of the stairs he ran into Marty Ding The doors opened Gotta catch the shuttle back Digbys with Ginnythanks for listening Marty said as he stepped in He turned one eighty to face back face drawn As the doors closed he bemoaned I know what I need to do Arnie walked over to the table where Ginny was giving Digby a belly rub What a great dog you have Mr Price Digby was lapping it up For sure Arnie picked up his notebook and pencil Started to jot somethingthen thought better of it Ginnywe need to call it a day Looking at the clipboard I dont have anyone signed up the rest of the day anyway Let me help you pack up Thanks Ginny Within five minutes Arnie and Digby were walking down the stairs Lets go out the back Arnie said as Digby tugged towards the front I want to check the patiosee if we can spot anything They exited together and strolled the stone patio Digby sniffing around the chairs and tableschecking for edible leftovers The area was shaded by the building and the spray of the river added a layer of coolness Arnie navigated towards the tables then along the rock wall As he approached the stone staircase cut through the leash stiffened and resisted Digbys nose was sweeping through a puddle Then Arnie saw it A blue crumpled wrapper Good boy he said as he crouched down and pulled the baggie hed put the other wrapper in He compared the two He lifted it with the tweezers and slid it into the baggie Arnie raised up swiveled back to the library for a proximity check He gave a quick tug on the leash to get Digbys attention and then turned towards the stairs At the top he moved to the curb made sure the road was clear and then guided Digby across Main to Roys Market The clerk at the counter was staring at his phone as Arnie approached You carry Black Jack gum Havent seen that in years Youd need a specialty place for that Closest Life is Sweet over in Keene Thirty minutes later Arnie detoured into the Mailroom on the way back to his apartment There he found Royce who stood at the Mailroom information cork board decked out in mail carrier blueglass front swung back arranging monthly postal announcements Didnt know you moonlighted as postmaster Arnie said Royce didnt look over Thirty years wearing this get uplike to break it out now and then And it still fits he beamed shirt untucked and covering more than hed admit to Ever seen this for sale around town Arnie said raising the baggie with the gum wrapper Royce studied it Black Jack Thats specialty stuff You wont find that in this town Where would I look Royce tilted his head as if pulling an image Only place I can think of within thirty milesLife is Sweet in Keene Central Square Thats what they said at Roys Pause Feel like a quick road trip Arnie asked gazing at the new stamps coming out this month as Royce swung the glass closed and locked it in place Royce looked over at the wall clock Hmm Drawing class at two Yeah that can be arranged How longs the drive Twentyfive minutes each wayif I dont get stuck behind a logging truck Royce narrowed his eyes This about the Tuesday delivery Arnie paused then relented Its more about who delivered it Royce nodded once Let me grab my keys Ill pick you out front in fifteen Royce eased the Caddy to the curb in front of Shattuck Hall Arnie opened the passenger door and stopped short Phylis sat in the back seat hands folded on her lap CVS tote at her feet Forgot to mention Id promised her a pharmacy run today Arnie sank in next to Royce and pulled on the door handle Fine by meyoure the one on the clock Royce met Phylis eyes in the rearview mirror Were tight on timeyou good with the drivethrough That works Already have a thousand steps in today came the reply from the back Within ten minutes the Caddy was idling at the pharmacy window both driverside windows powered down The speaker crackled Picking up Phylis Hudderbing she called forward Date of birth June third nineteen forty Her debit card slapped Royce on the shoulder Royce palmed it No wasted motion here A metal drawer slid open beneath the window with a hollow clack Royce handed over the card Ms Hudderbing hydroxyzine twentyfive milligrams Correct Yes It may cause drowsiness Thats fine she said I can work it in with my power naps A beat And this is for itching Royces eyes shifted to the rearview mirror Correct Phylis said evenly Apparently my livers not playing nice If the itching doesnt improve or worsens please follow up with your provider I will Your provider also suggested famotidine for stomach discomfort Would you like us to add that Yes she said before Royce could turn around Small box Shouldnt need it long Another clack of the drawer The bag came back stapled shut receipt flapping Royce handed it over the seat Arnie worked his notebookdisconnected from the drivethrough banter Phylis opened the bag peered inside as if inspecting contraband No lollipop she muttered Never mindthats the bank Royce eased forward Everything okay Phylis he asked quietly over his shoulder Itch Indigestion Middleaged nonsense Youre not middleaged She met his eyes in the mirror Care to arm wrestle when we get back Royce smiled powered up the windows and eased out of the bay Phylis leaned back folded the pharmacy bag on her lap and opened Candy Crush Pull in here Arnie pointed to a parking spot in front of a pink fronted building along Central Square Royce slid the car in put it into park and reached for the door handle You two stay hereIll be in and out Arnie said as he slid out Before he made a clean exit a voice from the back seat Dozen fire ballsAtomic Arnie already on the pavement leaned in Ill see what I can do Royce raised his finger ready to place an order Arnie stared him downthen closed the door The little bell above the door jingled as Arnie made his way into _Life Is Sweet_ a riot of glass jars and pastel boxes stacked high behind the counter The place smelled like spun sugar and nostalgia A lanky teenager with a shock of purple hair shuffled forward leaning heavily on the counter His name tag read _Life is sweet Candy is sweeter_ and Zack in bubblegum pink sharpie ink Help you find something His tone suggested hed rather be anywhere else You sell Black Jack gum The kid blinked Not a common ask He ducked down rattling through drawers and pulled out a twentyfour pack small box containing half a dozen packs You want the rest Arnie pulled a twenty out of his pocket Just one pack Then remembering and throw in a dozen Atomic Fireballs The clerk pulled a handful of individually wrapped fireballs out of the canister and dropped the lot onto the counter As he rang them up Arnie asked Ever get regulars for this stuff Black Jack I mean Only one guy Ive seen buy it Came in yesterday Can you describe him The kid stared out the window at people walking past on the sidewalk Older guy cap scratchy voice He come in often YeahIf you consider every couple of months regular The door jangled as a woman with three kids burst in Arnies brow furrowed Is the manager around Noshes not here now Pause Maamplease dont let the kids touch that What are her hours Then rushed Evenings and weekends Heres your change The kid was off Maam Arnie scooped up the bag and exited back out onto the sidewalkfishing out the gum as he approached the car He slid into the passenger seatthen passed the bag back to an already outstretched hand Royce turned to face Arnie All this for a pack of gum Just something I needed to check on Arnie clipped in Lets get you back in time for class Royce started up the engine Shifted into reverse I hope you have your story straight before you next run into Evelyn and Connie Arnie just stared out the passenger windowno response Over the crinkling of a candy wrapper in the back came a slurping sound followed by Remember Arnie you cant sugar coat the truth Arnie tightened his fingers around the pack of gum he held in his pocket as he watched reflections of the Caddy bounce back from passing storefront windows Chapter 8 You Got That Wrong _Stonegate Main Entrance Boston One Beacon Basement Archives_ Royce rolled up along side Arnie who was standing with Digby at the curb outside Shattuck Hall The drivers side window was down a Hawaiian shirt sleeve resting on the sill Buffett in full voice Royce was wearing aviators and singing right along Arnie shook his head and smiled until he opened the rear door to let Digby hop in and spotted Phyliss walker tucked inand Phylis sitting up front wearing Royces Parrothead hat Royce not today Arnie said I need this clean Arnie pulled on Digbys leash Come on boy From behind Arnie heard And where do you think youre going Mr Price He spun around and saw Evelyn and Connie staring backeach with bags in their hands We understand youre running reconnaissance and keeping us out of the loop Evelyn said glaring at Arnie chin jutted out Royce rose his window side hand up elbow still on the sill to hide his face Gaze forward Royce Arnie Royce lowered his hand palm up Arnie I was no match You cant leave me alone for a weekend with this group and expect me not to crack You disappear all weekend and expect us not to notice Connie said as she moved in closer She raised the bag and handed it to him Sustenance for your trip Evelyn moved forwardyoure going into a time infested battlefield Ive seen my share in library basements She raised her hand Here stuff this in your satchel We want a full report when you get back she pushed it into his open hand Let me take that Connie said reaching for Digbys leash Well take good care of him With that the women went around the other side of the car and helped Phylis get outwalker aligned hat flopping I had a parrot once pushing the bird out of her facewatched everything I did Arnie didnt laugh He pushed past her and plopped into the front seat satchel overflowing Any more surprises Arnie scowled Royce stayed silent Lets go I have a bus to catch The bus rolled into South Station just past two He had an hour before his meeting with Cahill Boston in Aprilcool restless He walked north from South Station and reached One Beacon at 255 sharp Prompt as ever Cahill came down to meet him Age had softened him bald crown gray beard slacks bagged at the knees shirt collar stained A pencil clipped to his pocket had leaked graphite down the front Readers dangled from a chain Arnie he said checking the clock Like a Rolextimely and dependable Save the chatter for later He signed Arnie in and steered him toward a service elevator Youre still a stair guy right MeI avoid them He jabbed the down button Remind me what youre after 94 Raw materials Wet edits Harborlight Series At B3 the mesh doors scraped open to reveal a petite woman in her midsixties head bent over a clipboard balanced on a stack of colored folders Dirt streaked one cheek A headlamp circled her forehead A P90 mask hung loose at her neck She looked at home underground Stepping forwardclearly expecting the elevator to be emptyshe stopped short and dropped her bag Papers and pens scattered across the concrete Cahill bent first Let me help you Arnie joined him gathering what had slid out of reach When they stood he handed her the stack He studied her face Melissa Melissa Thomasmy goto editorial researcher She flicked off the headlamp If it isnt Arnie Lights Out Price The crime guy who never slept A beat What are you digging for Harborlight 94 Cahill said Melissa adjusted the mask at her throat and gripped the tote a little tighter Youll find what youre looking for she said evenly Whether you like it is another question Cahill checked his watch Times limited As the elevator doors began to close Melissa added almost casually Dig carefully Some of this is down here for a reason Its better off in the dark Cahill directed him forward The motion lights flickered on revealing wiremesh corridors stacked floor to ceiling with bankers boxes Metal cabinets leaned against cinderblock walls The air smelled of paper and damp concrete They stopped at a cage marked 1994 Cahill unlocked it and swung the gate open Inside a scarred metal desk a chair shelves packed tight Two hours Cahill said Nothing leaves the cage No photos Camera overhead He held out his hand Arnie reached into his jacket and produced the flip phone Cahill turned it over once Still carrying this thing It works Cahill slipped it into his pocket Ill be back at five Dubliner after The gate clanged shut Arnie stood still for a moment He glanced up Small black dome in the corner of the cage ceiling He set down his satchel Arnie pulled back the metal chair from under the relic of a table the scraping echo bouncing off storage boxes stacked on shelves and along the walls He sat tugged the brass chain on the old bankers lamp and let its dull yellow glow spill across the desk catching the dust motes in the air Hed come preparedEvelyns survival kit stuffed into his satchel Beneath it a lemon bar from Connie and a Powerbar Phylis insisted hed need Clearing space Arnie opened the manila envelope and slid out the article Ritual mattered Order and preparation helped separate memory from motive He began to read _Beacon Harborlight Kickbacks Permeate City Hall October 17 1994_ For more than a year The Beacons Harborlight team investigated a pattern of concealed payments linking city contractors to senior officials inside Bostons municipal government Financial audits and internal records revealed funds routed through intermediaries and into offshore shell companies connected to public works contracts worth millions At the center of the findings Mayor Rowan Campbell The article continued _Mayor Campbells financial fingerprints appear on transfer authorizations tied to accounts later used in the offshore transactions He has long maintained that the buck stops here Our reporting indicates the buck flowed through him_ A red line circled the final sentence In the margin block letters _YOU GOT THAT WRONG_ Arnie flipped to another piece_Mayor Campbell Resigns in Disgrace_ No confession No denial Just departure Time was short He crossed to the shelves A clipboard directory hung from a chain He scanned until he found it C7 Harborlight 1994 OctoberDecember A dolly leaned beneath it He rolled it over and pulled down three boxes from the middle row September went back October and November stayed in his arms He paused The cardboard wasnt brittle The lids sat square No powdery film of age No sag in the corners Back at the desk he lifted the lids carefully Inside the files were too neat Tabs aligned Folders squared No random foldovers No yellowed curl He wrote one line on his pad Check cage access log recent access and prep He worked fast First passsort Secondpull Thirdprioritize An hour in two boxes were reduced to tight stacks Fortyfive minutes left He stopped He jotted down WWED Then bulleted underneath Not deference Discipline Cut to the bone He reached for the interview cassettes firstthree of them labeled in his own handwriting He dug through the bankers box No cassette player He wiped the outer cases with a HandiWipe then slipped them into a freezer bag and into the satchel Next up bank transfers Drafts Handwritten edits Interview lists The list made him slow Names Phone numbers Bios Added another entry track down 1994 numbers He copied quickly in tight shorthand The metallic screech of the elevator doors split the silence He didnt look up immediately He scanned the table and hurriedly put unwanted cassettes back in the box secured the lid and pushed it to the edge of the table Then he turned Heavy footsteps echoed down the corridor Cahill filled the cage entry coat slung over one shoulder Time to pack it up Cahill said eyes drifting once across the table before settling back on Arnie Grab a cold one All set Arnie said moving quickly to stack the boxes onto the dolly Ill handle that You get your things Cahill waved him off placing the last box on top and wheeled the load himself Arnie used that moment to tuck the freezer bag into his satchel Two minutes later Cahill returned Together they locked the cage crossed to the freight elevator and rode up in silence The doors opened on Pemberton Square the Dubliner Pub just a stones throw away Arnie shaded his eyes as he stepped into the bright daylight Chapter 9 Caught on Tape _Downtown Boston Ride Back to Peterborough_ Cahill pushed the pub door open without breaking stride Inside The Dubliner live Irish folk music filled the dark mahogany space They worked through the crowd as Cahill flagged the bartender with a few hand signs Guinness on the way Cahill called over his shoulder steering Arnie toward an empty beer barrel table Standing room only Two pints landed in front of them in under thirty seconds My kind of barista Cahill swiped foam off his mouth Find what you were looking for today he asked Arnie took a sip Not sure Cahill scooped a handful of mixed nuts from a bowl popped a few into his mouth and studied him What are you digging for Arnie hesitated Cahill might have insight but no reason to tip his whole hand He went with the line hed prepared Word over the border is OSullivans about to test the primary waters Im trying to recall his involvement if any in the Public Works kickback scandal Something doesnt sit right Cahill raised an eyebrow Havent heard that one Hes been off grid for years Half his pint was already gone Sodid he Dont know Two hours in the archives barely scratches the itch Try two hundred You never could resist a hanging thread Cahill drained his glass lifted two fingers for another round They swapped old stories Cahill weaving in retirement plans of Florida fishing and grandkids After an hour Arnies first pint was still half full Gotta catch the next bus Cahill polished off the rest of Arnies glass without asking They pulled on coats and spilled into Cambridge Street Brown Eyed Girl fading into overlapping voices car horns and the rattle of a muffler that had seen better days Youve got an open tab here I take it Arnie asked Cahill only smiled At Park Street Station they exchanged noncommittal goodbyes Any problem with my making a return visit Give me a heads up and Ill see what I can do Fredricks has been tight about access lately Fredricks Carson Keeps an eye out Hates security audits Arnie watched him go Soft in the middle maybe but never soft upstairs He crossed Tremont cut down Winter and headed for South Station At Summer and Lincoln he slipped into the Starbucks on the corner A small black coffee rinsed out the Guinness as he joined a seated Franco steam rising from a Venti cup back wall angled toward the entrance Good to see you on my turf Franco said Productive afternoon Very He nodded at Francos coffee looks like you wont be sleeping anytime soon Franco gave his patented wry smile and slid a brown bag across the table Inside a battered Walkman and headphones Perfect Arnie said A little intel too Franco added Reviewed the library footage Couldnt ID the guy handing off the envelope Never looked up Never showed his face But I got a zoom on his gloves Kid was rightnew Dents drivers High end Might be traceable Stills are in the bag Thanks One more thing Arnie said pulling a notepad These namescan you get me current whereabouts Been thirty years I need to know whos still above ground and how to reach them I starred the priorities Franco photographed the list Got it Ill be out your way later this week with an update Anything urgent just say so Arnie slipped the notepad back in his satchel stood and left The 8 pm Concord Coach out of South Station carried fewer than ten passengers Arnie chose the rear opened the brown bag and dried cassette one with a napkin Headphones on notebook ready he pressed play A younger version of his own voice tight and focused _June 7th 1994 1020 am Interview with Sheryl Kirkwood admin to Mayor Campbell_ The bus pulled out as the voices of the past took over Invoices were always papergenerated dropped off by the contractor We were told to route them through a third party No questions asked OSullivan said it was standard procedure Said it made us audit compliant I didnt know what that meant The tape clicked off thirty minutes later Arnie flipped it pressed play again Contractors voices this time Never met the Mayor Proposals went in instructions came back No direct contact Youre asking the wrong questions Ask who signed off The bus eased into the Nashua bus terminal just as the second side ended Outside waiting under the lights was Clarkthis time in a yellowed wool flannel St Louis Wolves uniform complete with paintedon handlebar mustache Arnie shook his head gathering his things Mr Price Clark said warmly How was Boston Just fine Weve got complimentary peanuts and Cracker Jack in the back Did you find what you were looking for I dont know The answer came too fast From the drivers seat Lewis turned with his own painted mustache and bellowed Third base And they were off launching into a fullthroated _Whos on First_ routine Arnie closed his eyes and slid in the _Whos Next_ cassette Franco had left in the bag The opening bars of _Wont Get Fooled Again_ filled his ears _Meet the new boss Same as the old boss_ His eyes opened He pulled out his phone Run Carson Fredricks Beacon Archives He hit send Chapter 10 Youve Got Mail _Stonegate Patio_ The group text came from Royce at 915 sharp _Check your mail Patio 11 am_ By the time they gathered outside Stonegates main doors the day had opened into one of those rare New Hampshire giftsa warm spring morning that invited people outside to stretch their legs and soak in some vitamin D Arnie was already at a picnic tablewhite dress shirt sleeves rolled up working away at the Times Crossword Digby sat beside him peoplewatching and checking for leftovers Connie swished out in a floral dress that matched her mood Evelyn had chosen a knit vest in cheerful pastels the sort of thing she called her seasonal transition wear Royce less festive wore his cutsleeve hoodie that suggested he might be heading to either a picnic or a lumberjack contest Shall I Connie raised her official envelope with theatrical flair The others held matching ones _In recognition of your service above and beyond for the people of New Hampshire the State hereby awards you the Associate Service Commendation Your courageous actions in saving a fellow citizens life and your assistance in the apprehension and successful prosecution of a criminal enterprise reflect great credit upon yourself and your community_ Connie gave the final flourish with a hand to her chest And looktheres to be a formal ceremony A gala And were each invited to bring a guest Royce slapped the table Phylis will be my plusone Phylis grinned her teeth blackened from her current obsession with Black Jack gum She leaned forward in matching hoodie proud as a kid with a prize ribbon Hes not getting rid of me that easy Spoken like a woman in love Connie teased Evelyn folded her letter and changed subjects turning to Arnie Tell us about Boston And before he could start she emphasized and what led up to it Arnie laid down his pencil and rested his hands on the table You remember the message They nodded It said I got 94 wrong The article I wrote on Boston City Hall corruption That Campbell wasnt the center He paused If thats true I cleared the wrong man And elevated another Silence My research is at Beacon Archives interviews invoices photos I needed to see it Evelyn didnt blink Why There was another part of the messageAsk who signed off And Connie chimed in I found a few invoices and interview cassettes Still looking through them Arnie said Someone had been there recently A bit too neat Arnie stood then perched on the edge of the table facing them Francos tracing three names so far Sandra Reilly Campbells chief of staff Vinnie Pantinari contractor biggest payout through Seaport Development And Francis Chapman City Hall accounting Whistleblower type Connie tapped her letter Thats quite a cast You going to talk with them again Arnies expression tightened but he said nothing of the Informer Two of the three are no longer with us At that moment Royces phone buzzed His eyebrows rose as he read You want to share Connie asked Royce cleared his throat reading aloud Massachusetts Senator Patrick OSullivan plans on entering the Democratic primary for President Announcement rally scheduled tomorrow at the Peterborough Town House Arnie leaned back Now the urgency makes sense The kickback scandal from 94 didnt just land in my lap by chance Someone wants his rise stalled Care to enlighten us Evelyn asked Arnie hesitated then said Back then I wrote that Mayor Campbell was the central figure My article helped topple Campbell It cleared a path for OSullivan If the wrong man fell I helped put the right one in place The weight of it settled over the group Finally Evelyn squared her shoulders Ill research OSullivanlook for sponsors backers whos really propping him up If hes announcing here theres a local tie Ill sniff it out Connie was quick to add Ill volunteer for the campaign Royce leaned forward Phylis and I will follow the Black Jack Phylis piped in Can we stop by Monadnock Knife and Tool on the way Ive got an axethrowing competition coming up My edges are dull Of course you do Connie said smiling despite herself Arnie scratched Digbys ear Ill take the tapes for another listen Well walk Arnie pulled the Walkman out of his pocket Tonight then my place Connie declared Potluck Royce dont bring anythinghalf my fridge is Royce leftovers And Im still keeping tabs on your _See Food_ diet I think youve been slipping The group broke with their assignments drifting off in separate directions Arnie had barely rounded the corner with Digby when his phone buzzed Arnie Price The voice was brisk Speaking Detective Leah Mendez State Crime Unit Just wanted to confirm you got the invitation for the award ceremony Hope you can attend DCI Richards is flying in from the UKhes getting a special consulting award as well Arnie murmured agreement distracted until she added Also any chance youve heard from Franco We havent been able to confirm his attendance No Arnie said carefully I hope he makes it Id like him there The line clicked off Arnie slipped the phone back into his pocket Lets walk Digby The gala just got more complicated Chapter 11 Whats Old is New _Stonegate Candy Store_ Arnie walked the wooded loop behind Stonegate with Digby padding happily ahead nose sweeping the ground His attention was elsewhere Walkman headphones pressed tight over his ears He clicked rewind then listened for the third time to Interview 3 Sandra Reilly He paused and pulled out a research photo hed lifted from the Archivesmidtwenties conservative dark suit hair pulled back and glasses for style not necessity This is off the record He heard crackling through I will not testify or affirm any of this on the record Her tone was strong and unwavering Campbell signed the contracts yes but it wasnt what people think shed insisted Arnie adjusted the headphones and scrolled up the volume dial He heard his younger self press her What is Patrick OSullivans involvement in all of this None at all she shot back Pat was never brought in on the contract discussions Arnie stopped in his tracks closed his eyes and rewound the tape Pat Not OSullivan Not Mr OSullivan Just _Pat_ The way she said itcasual personaldidnt fit He rewound Played it again Then again Arnie steered Digby over to an open bench He sat and pulled out his notebook and flipped to a halffilled page with Sandra Reilly scrawled at the top He jotted an entry Campbellstiff formal OSullivanpersonable Pat He underlined Pat He flipped to the back and added another set of entries under Franco Follow Up Reilly OSullivan personal relationship Under that Analyze Campbells signature on the Pantinari invoice legit or forged Arnie started to close the notebook hesitated then reopened it He wrote one more line Did Campbell take the fall to shield OSullivan Arnie popped out the cassette and fished for the one marked Pantinari from his jacket pocket He pulled the photo that was attached via rubber band and looked at a smiling Vinnie Pantinari hands on the shoulders of two suited guys neck ties loosened drinks in hands He flipped the photo and read the writingchoked to death in late December 1994 at Luccios in Bostons North End Mysterious circumstances Contracts connecting Campbell He inserted the cassette clicked play and rose from the benchDigby back in action sniffing at everything that came within leash range as Arnie resumed walking Back at Stonegate Evelyn was at her dining table with a neat stack of notes glasses perched low on her nose She had taken the list of names Arnie flagged and was treating it like her own version of LexisNexis Vinnie Pantinari accidental choking 94 Luccios She underlined it That restaurant had come up before Sandra Reilly after serving as Campbells press secretary and later chief of staff she had left politics Or so it seemed Evelyns pencil froze above the page when she found Sandras current role OSullivans campaign manager Her eyes narrowed Francis Chapman City Hall accountant Left in 95 fled Massachusetts altogether Article from Portland Press Herald reported a boating accident in 96 Another accident Evelyn sat back lips pressed thin Patterns were emerging She pulled out her phone and sent Arnie a text _We need to meet These names tell quite a story_ Meanwhile Connie sat at her laptop in the Stonegate lounge scrolling through Search and Find messages A new one blinked _Any idea where Billy Lazzaro is He holds the key to what happened to Vinnie Pantinari You dont choke on calamari unless you get some help_ Billy Lazzaro had been at the center of their first case Catherine Primroses disappearance Hed once controlled part of Bostons North End including the restaurant where Pantinari died Now he was living in exile after turning on his exwife to save his son She picked up her phone and called Arnies voicemail prompt came up Arnie call me Across town Royce and Phylis made their unlikely entrance into _Life is Sweet_ The bell over the door jingled and behind the counter stood a young woman in powderblue coveralls dirtyblonde hair tied back with ribbon Her name tag framed in redandwhite peppermint stripes read Cindy Cane Store Manager She flashed a bracesfilled grin Hello Welcome to _Life is Sweet_ How can I sweeten your day Royce tilted his head Must be tough sweetening up everyone elses day and not your own Cindy blinked at him puzzled but undeterred Looking for anything special Yes Royce said Black Jack gum Her smile faltered Black Jack Thats unusual Why the interest Phylis leaned on her walker and smiled showing faint black traces on her teeth Im running low Royce pressed on Actually were trying to track down the bloke who told us about the stuff He dropped something we wanted to return to him but didnt get a name or way to contact him Can you help us out The sweetness drained from Cindys face as she glanced ever so quickly up at the overhead security camera Why do you think I can help with that Royce hesitated We were in a couple days ago Your store clerk Zack I think it was said youd be the one to talk to Were just after some contact information Ms Cane Sorry she said flatly I cant do that Besides the only sale weve ever made was cash and carry she said stiffly as if caught in a vise Royce leaned on the counter Tell us more Candy Its _Cindy_ she snapped And if youre not here for candy I need you to leave Royce raised his brows So there _is_ a Candy Can I talk to her Cindy extended her arm stiff as a statue finger pointing directly at the door Royce tried one last time How about Sugar Phylis muttered More like _Mutiny_ Royce ushered her out though Phylis made one last hopeful plea At least toss me that bag of black jelly beans The bell jingled as the door closed leaving Cindy frozen in place arm still outstretched Outside during the fiveminute slide back to the car Phylis stopped to adjust her hand grip Before continuing on she said That girl was scared Royce commented Yeah Happens Especially when they think Im delivering overdue notices Phylis said Not that kind of scared Im talking visiting the dentist after binging on jujubes scared Royce nodded as he opened the car door for Phylis to begin the next fiveminute transition I can relate to that That night Arnie met Franco briefly at the side entrance of Stonegate Franco had that restless energy he always carried as if his mind was already two steps ahead You going to the commendation Arnie asked Got the invite Ill be there Good Leahs hoping youll come Been asking about you Franco deflected with a grin You didnt drag me out here just for social updates No Arnie leaned in I need you to dig into Francis Chapman Official record says boating accident in 96 but the timing stinks And do you recall any personal connection between Sandra Reilly and Patrick OSullivan Anything you can find there will help Something doesnt add up How do you mean Franco looked up and right Arnie responded Sandra Reilly worked for Mayor Campbell and defended him vigorously But her responses about Patrick OSullivan were laced with a more personal touch Was she playing both sides Feels like there was something there I missed and that she could hold the key Franco smirked God knows Ive missed plenty of signs myself Ill see what I can find He reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out an envelope Heres the updated contact information for other people on the list you gave me Not much stands out that you havent already brought up Let me know if theres anyone there you want me to dig deeper on Will do And thanks for the personal touch Franco said over his shoulder as he walked off towards his waiting steed His beloved Honda Fury Just before Franco was out of earshot Arnie said Oh anything on Carson As he was strapping on his helmet he said Clean so far But Ill keep digging He mounted throttled and sped off into the night Digby looked up and waited patiently He needed to discover new smells These were getting stale Later that evening the Bridge Club sat together in the rec room television tuned to the local Boston feed Patrick OSullivan appeared in a slick campaign ad voice booming with manufactured gravitas Ive fought for peoples rights all my life First in Massachusetts making government work for them Now its time to take that message to the rest of our great country Join me in Peterborough this Fridaywere inviting you to come along for the ride The camera cut wide There behind him stood Sandra Reilly beaming Her outfit was sharp polished Just to her right an arm hung at someones side The hand wore a black leather driving glove Arnie froze His stomach tightened He reached for his phone and dialed Leah he said when she answered We need to talk Chapter 12 The Glove Fits _Downtown Peterborough_ The morning of the rally dawned with a damp April mistthe kind that seeps under jackets and into bones a reminder why snowbirds stay away until Memorial Day Still Peterborough buzzed like a First Friday Night market Lawn signs sprouted among the daffodils a patriotic patchwork of red white and blue _OSullivan for President_ The Bridge Club arrived in shifts each blending in while keeping eyes on Connie barred from official campaign duty as a registered Independent had found a loophole She volunteered in hospitalitygreeting attendees smoothing ruffled feathers handing out programs Wrapped in a practical but elegant scarf she looked capable of seating you _and_ explaining campaign finance reform all while coaxing out secrets you wouldnt confess to your own mother Evelyn secured her place via the Peterborough Historical Society Campaigns are history she said primly clipboard in hand as though curating the event She even collected attendee signatures just in case one matched a name from Arnies package Royce and Phylis rolled up in the Stonegate shuttle piloted by Lewis and Clark in their Wild and Crazy Guys outfits The van rattled like a circus wagon Digby hung out the window in throwback goggles tongue lolling Royce sported his trademark mailman shorts kneehigh socks and sleeve cut hoodie Phylis had a StarsandStripes scarf looped around her walker Digby a bananayellow bandana They called it incognito Arnie arrived with press credentials swinging from a lanyardcourtesy of the _Boston Beacon_ Earlier in the week Cahill had made it happen Local color piece Cahill had said in his newsroom staccato Freelance rates lousy but youre in Credentials are what I need Arnie had replied You find anything worth a followup Maybe another trip back here Not at the moment Ill keep you posted Arnie stared at the screen a moment longer narrowed his eyes then clicked off He pocketed the phone and returned his attention to the action at handscouting out the stage and people mulling about And Franco He skirted the edges of the crowd pea coat togo coffee keeping to the high ground across the street His eyes never left Sandra Reilly who was attached to OSullivan at the hipmingling with local wannabes The crowd itself was a carnival One Stonegate resident had gone over the topfoam finger flapping shouting _OSullivans great for 28_ until his voice cracked He kept his eye on the WMUR reporter pushing through to get in prime background position The rally opened with Forest Templetona former governor who looked more like a miccheck guy than a past state leader When bread cost thirtyfive cents a loaf When everyone knew their mailman by name Restless chants of _We want Pat_ bubbled up Royce couldnt help himself he gave a fullthrottle hoot at the mailman line drawing irritated stares Finally Templeton introduced the next President of the United Statesthe honorable Patrick OSullivan OSullivan strode onstage Sandra right on his heel I am in this for you Were in this together he declared fists punching the misty air Flags waved the foam finger nearly took out someones eye The speech was short sharp scripted After photos with babies and Peterboroughs 101yearold Boston Post Cane holder OSullivan slipped into a waiting car on Main Street Sandra of course never left his side Phylis sharpeyed behind oversized sunglasses jabbed Royce with her elbow Gloves Drivers wearing them Black Royce craned his neck Sure enough the drivers hand rested on the rolleddown windowsleek black leather gloves The kind theyd been told about Royces pulse ticked Roger that he muttered He jostled through the crowd arms raised repeating the mantra Pardon me Excuse me At last he broke free onto Main Street The car was still idling invisible to most Suddenly the gloved hand disappeared then reappeared flicking something small and blue onto the street Royce saw it immediately As the car pulled away Royce stepped in and looked down There it was a crumpled Black Jack gum wrapper on the wet pavement By the time the rally crowd began to disperse Royce had it sealed in a napkin from his pocket He found Phylis who was already holding open a baggie with practiced ease Royce deposited the wrapper sealing it in They worked their way over to Arnie who was standing at the edge of the green Look what OSullivans driver dropped he said presenting the wrapper with a magicians flourish Phylis clucked Dont bury the lead Royce shot her a look I was getting there He pulled out his phone and swiped to the photo The drivers window rolled down A hand resting there A black leather glove glistening from the days dampness He angled the screen toward Arnie Gotcha Arnie leaned in then lifted his eyes Fifty yards up the hill a man in a Scottish cap watched He ground out his cigarette and turned the corner onto High Street Out of sight Arnie looked back at the photo This isnt just a driver he said The high school marching band blasted the final chorus of _Sweet Caroline_ swallowing the rest of his words Royce grinned at the image on his screen oblivious Arnie scanned the hill again Empty now He turned and moved toward Franco Bah bah bah bounced off the storefront windows behind him Chapter 13 Bonded _Car Ride Logan Airport Rockingham Mall_ The crowd from OSullivans rally was still dispersing when Leah Mendez rolled up beside Arnie the cruiser window sliding down with a low hum Fancy a ride she called Her eyes flicked toward Digby who sat at Arnies heel in his yellow bandana and throwback goggles And I cant believe Im saying this but bring him too Looks like hes ready for some wind in his fur Digbys ears pricked Before Arnie could answer the dog launched himself into the back seat nose pressed eagerly against the window Leah hit the switch lowering the glass so he could ride with his head out Tail wagging goggles askew Digby was in heaven Arnie turned to Royce who was loitering nearby with Phylis Before you askwere heading to Logan Picking up Richards and Willow Feel free to update the others And since Connie will ask yes Ill be late Phylis squinted Whos Willow Royce gave a theatrical sigh Ill brief you on the way back The ride east was quiet save for the hum of tires and Digbys panting Arnie filled Leah in his voice steady but edged with that old investigative spark The package held my old articlemarked up You got that wrong Campbells contracts with Seaport Development Invoices He confessed to approving them but what if the signature was forged Pantinari choked weeks after it ran Chapman died the year after Leah kept her eyes on the road And Billy Lazzaro Vinnie Pantinari died at Luccios Lazzaros old base That one nagged at me Too convenient for coverup The City Hall whistleblower Chapman had a fatal boating accident around the same time If Billy knows something Leah cut him off gently Arnie until theres a direct New Hampshire tie my hands are tied Immunity protects Lazzaro unless we can frame this as unfinished business from PrimroseBurtonCollins If we can make the commendation connectionno loose endsI can try to broker a meeting Arnie nodded Ill work on that And Sandra Reilly Theres a task force monitoring OSullivan Leah said Protection detail Any attempt to pry will raise flags Arnie glanced at her Then Francos rightwell need a parallel track Hes chasing Chapman but could use official help Especially with Lazzaro At the mention of Franco Leahs mouth twitched into a smile before she smoothed it away Arnie added quietly Jackson the messenger described who gave him the package Black gloves licorice gum We found our connection to OSullivans driver at the rally He paused Any chance you can push the plate Franco submitted I know no crimes been committed Id just like to get ahead of it They were stopped at a light This showed up in my mailbox on Friday Arnie passed her a Polaroid She took the photo and held it up between her thumb and forefingerboth hands still on the wheel No idea who took it Any message Leah asked as she set the photo down and accelerated Nothe picture was the message Leah studied it a second longer Thats stalking She glanced at him Can I keep this Of course Well see what we can pull She checked her mirror and accelerated into the commuter lane Im not optimistic Arnie said as he watched Bunker Hill pass out of view Logan International was its usual chaos of rolling bags and tired faces At baggage claim Arnie spotted them DCI Alastair Richards tall and rumpled as ever and beside him Willow She was twelve long dark hair falling from beneath a Peterborough United hoodie eyes glued to her phone A pair of oversized headphones crowned her head Arnie Richards said warmly shaking his hand Didnt expect quite the reception His gaze slid toward the waiting car with Leah behind the wheel Willow barely looked up until they reached the curb There waiting with his head out the window and a grin as wide as the Charles was Digby Willows phone slipped into her hoodie pocket The reflection of lights off her braces and oh my God look said it all She let go of her luggage and rushed to the car hugging him as if shed found a longlost friend Digby covered her in slobber which she didnt mind one bit Bonded already Arnie said Figures Richard loaded the bags in the boot shut the lid and walked around to the driver side Before he could climb in Leah leaned out her window and motioned Richards over Amid the screech of brakes and the volley of horns in Logans arrival terminal she angled closer her voice pitched so low Willow wouldnt catch it There have been developments Before you get too settled in we should catch up Richards nodded and then eased into the backseat next to Willow and out of Digby slobber range Arnie turned toward the back seat Great to see you where are you staying he asked Richards leaned in Wed booked an Airbnb in Portsmouth but it fell through Landlord said damage from the last tenants Had to scramble I rang the Riverhouse Weekendersame place as before They had space At least the next two nights were in Peterborough Convenient Leah said noncommittal Leah put the car in drive and with the ease of an experienced Airport shuttle driver darted into the traffic flow towards the exit The topic shifted no more case talk There would be time for that Chapter 14 Charlies Angels _Stonegate Dining Hall_ Breakfast at Stonegate was never a quiet affair on a holiday but this morning Shattuck Hall had gone allin on Easter Rabbits in every size and shape perched on windowsills tables even the serving counters Plastic grass in neon green spilled from wicker baskets and painted eggs glowed in impossible pastels under the ceiling lights Grandchildren darted between tables their cheeks striped with face paint while more than a few residents sported paintedon whiskers Rabbit mustaches apparently were this years rage Royce and Phylis had claimed the large booth by the window Royce armed with a towering stack of flapjacks was already twothirds through his bacon He leaned across the table syrup glistening on his fork Keep an eye out for the food police he muttered Connie spots me shell confiscate the evidence Ive got a carrot handy just in case He held up the forlorn vegetable as if it were a badge of compliance Phylis by contrast sipped at a protein shake and poked at a fruit bowl Her outfit however gave her away a black hoodie in Royces favorite cut bold white letters blaring _Power Lifters Matter_ Royce pointed with his fork What does that even mean Phylis took a long pull on her straw before answering Exactly Before Royce could press Evelyn appeared clipboard tucked under one arm and a steaming mug of gingerturmeric tea in the other She set her sights on their booth like a ship making port Seen Arnie she asked I want to compare the rally register signatures with _the package_ Royce spread his hands Ive told you his last words Im sure hell surface Phylis dug into her tote and produced a small baggie waving it like a prize Yayweve got evidence that needs attention Inside the gum wrapper winked under fluorescent light Evelyn unimpressed parked her clipboard on the table then detoured to the pastry buffet She returned with a scone and two packets of orange marmalade peeling one with delicate fingers Had to she said primly I just saw the Beverly sisters doubledip from the jelly bowls Turned my stomach At that moment Connie swept into the hall playing hostess in her official Stonegate _Greeter_ name tag She was escorting an unassuming gentleman with silverrimmed glasses and a bow tie His sweater bore a pinned badge reading _Im New Here Charlie_ Behind him trailed a polished woman in a navy pantsuit visitor tag proclaiming her _Sabrina_ rapidfire questions already pelting Connie A third member of their group lagged a few steps behind head down headphones clamped smartphone glowingan uninterested teen with no name filled in on her badge Im sure youre famished after our tour Connie was saying with a flourish And here our dining hallShattuck Hallthe nerve center of Stonegate Here youll be satiated with fine food and finer company Gluten free right Sabrina interjected Dad has celiac And Im vegan Is that going to be a problem Oh yes of course Connie assured turning smoothly back into her patter Royce meanwhile had drifted toward the pancake station near the newcomers wrestling with his conscience More pancakes more bacon Could he risk it Charlie edged closer a plate already in hand Who do I see about contraband food in this place he asked quietly You look like youd know Royce grinned What are you a narc Good eye though Without fanfare Charlie scooped pancakes and bacon onto a plate Royces eyes were on Charlies plate and his mouth was not hiding its deepest desire I read people Charlie said simply Royce snapped back widening his grin Then what am I thinking Charlie capped his syrup drenched plate with another plate and passed it to Royce with a conspiratorial smile He then patted his own stomach That youd rather not go hungry Same as me Royce stuck out a syrupsticky hand Royce But next time be sure to add whipped cream Charlie Charlie Silberman Royce leaned closer Do it again with someone else Pace yourself son Im not a dog that does tricks I save it for when it countslike scoring serious contraband gluten Royce chuckled Handy skill Youll come in useful around here Tell meplay bridge Before Charlie could answer Arnie entered with two guests in towDCI Richards and his daughter Willow with Digby tethered faithfully at her side Richards and Willow made the rounds of greetings Connie proudly introducing them to Charlie who in turn presented Sabrina and the headphoneclad granddaughter Kelly Two of Charlies angels Royce quipped Charlie raised his brows impressed Pulled that one out quick Royce Kelly disengaged until now perked up instantly at the sight of Digby Within minutes she and Willow were comparing headphones and falling into easy chatter Noisecanceling Willow asked Modded firmware Kelly replied Does that and more Connie stopped and smiled looking at Kelly and then at Sabrina She lightly swatted her hand in Kellys direction Shell be fine Then turned and walked This way Its amazing Richards said to Arnie who was watching Charlie head toward the hallway Willow could make friends with a chair They joined Evelyn at the booth clipboard now shoved discreetly aside Social protocol after all demanded five minutes of pleasantries before interrogation Richards explained theyd be at the Riverhouse for a few days Connie clasped her hands together Perfect You must come to my apartment tonight for dinner Richards hesitated glancing toward Arnie Arnie nodded Great idea If its all right Id like to invite Detective Mendez and Franco as well Is it all right No its mandatory Connie declared Weve ground to cover Charlie lingering at the edge gave a sly smile If youd like Willow can join Kelly and me tonighton the condition you lend us Digby for the evening Royce caught his eye and smirked You really can read a room One more stop Connie said signaling Sabrina and Charlie to follow Youll be back here in a jiffy Charlie turned to Arnie I look forward to getting to know you when youre not on the job patting Arnies shoulder and then releasing his grip He started to move then turned back Can you recommend where I can find a good selection of newspapers to pick from Arnie narrowed his eyes a fraction before answering Steeles Half mile down on Main Excellent thanks Charlie said as he patted Arnies shoulder and fell in step with Connie Chapter 15 Assembly Required _Stonegate Apartments_ Connie and Evelyn had learned through trial and error that when they stopped trying to outdo each other and instead combined Connies hospitality with Evelyns precision anything was possible Which was fortunate because they had less than an hour to turn Connies apartment into both a social hub and a command center for eight people By the time Evelyn rang the bell Connie had three dishes in the oven a charcuterie board halfbuilt and the makings of a vegetable platter spread across the counter Evelyn came armed like a general the push cart borrowed from Burt the custodian a Staples store on wheels the stripped cork board from the Primrose case perched on top and ready for redeployment Evelyn herself was dressed in librarian khakis and her gray hide the dust sweaterbusiness first The knitting bag was nowhere in sight Thank you for coming early Connie said ushering her in Set up in front of the fireplace And you didnt tell Royce right Not a chance Evelyn replied maneuvering the cart into place Hes fine on execution but without a map his preparation turns into a roadblock Thank God for Phylis these days That triggered Connies memory She hustled to the pantry pulling a few questionable items from the shelves and tossing them into a box she shoved beside the recyclables Almost forgot to Royceproof the pantry If I hide them here itll mask the smell and block his food radar They worked in silence for twenty minutes When the clock ran out the island gleamed with a buffet spread and the living room looked ready for a very serious round of charades Connie dropped onto the couch catching her breath Ev this is great She nodded at the orderly setup I admire your ability to organize and execute The only thing missing is seating cards Without a word Evelyn opened the folder tucked under her arm and produced a neat stack of labeled placards Connie laughed I shouldve known better Youre amazing Evelyns smile was small but genuine Its nice to be appreciated Thank you I could never pull off what youve done in an hour She gestured toward the kitchen Okay Connie said straightening Weve got home court advantage and control of movement and amenities Were as ready as we can be Evelyn adjusted her glasses As Phylis would saytime to kick some butt Efficiently As expected Royce and Phylis were the first to arrive Royce wore his usual hoodie Phylis her oversized coat bristling with suspiciously roomy pockets Can I take your coat Connie asked brightly Royce cut in Oh no shed much rather keep it on Drafty in here Connie shot Evelyn a look across the room Evelyns mouth tightenedmessage received Royce ignored them both making a beeline for the charcuterie board delicately dissecting it like a surgeon removing only what suited his taste Next came Richards bag in hand After hugs all around he pulled out a neatly wrapped package This is for later You can set that at the far end Is it Royceacceptable Connie asked eyebrow raised You dont have to worry Richards said I always have to worry Connie replied Whats Willow up to Connie asked showing him the way Shes settled in with Charlie and Kelly Richards added and Digby Movies popcorn and couch snuggling Digbys in heaven Connie said over her shoulder as there was another knock at the front door Arnie Detective Mendez and Franco stepped in Franco looked as if hed just walked off a GQ cover shoot warm and rugged except for his hair mussed like hed been wearing a helmet Youve got helmet hair Phylis announced producing a mirror from one of her coat pockets Franco blinked then smiled as he smoothed his hair Thank you Coats were collected greetings exchanged Connie guided them toward the buffet spread though Royce had already migrated to the pantry Phylis on lookout Royce give me a hand with this cork Connie called brandishing a bottle Busted Royce abandoned his mission pressing a jar of pickles into Phyliss hand before slinking over She stuffed the jar into a pocket with practiced ease Arnie looked around the room nodding appreciatively Amazing what can happen when you give Connie and Evelyn an hour and motivation Can you come down to the station and show us how you do it Mendez said through a mouthful of meatball And give me this recipe No you may not put any in your pocket Connie said glaring at Royce and Phylis Phylis shrugged _I tried_ Royce looked skyward in feigned innocence Meanwhile Evelyn had filled champagne flutes Mendez caught her eye took one and tapped a spoon against the glass The chatter quieted Mendez cleared her throat lifted her champagne flute and began Before we dive into business theres something Id like to say with all of you here The State of New Hampshire owes you a debt of gratitude for the Burton and Primrose case Because of your help we rescued Catherine Primrose solved the murders of Phil Burton and Jimmy Collins uncovered embezzlementRoyce beamedand brought Mildred Dobson and her coconspirators to justice Not perfect justice perhaps but justice nonetheless I thank you personally for caring and acting I raise my glass to all of you Hear hear echoed around the room as glasses clinked Royce lowered his glass scanning the spread So were calling this a celebration and theres no cake Evelyn moved to the front extended her metal pointer and tapped loudly on the easel Cake later Seats everyone As they moved toward their seats she added staring at Royce who had positioned himself within arms reach of the cookie spread The name cards are there for a reason Court was in session Chapter 16 Getting Down to Business _Connies Stonegate Apartment_ Evelyn tapped again and pointed at the first bullet Item 1 Gala Prep Detective Mendez the floor is yours Please come forward Heads tilted down Smiles were suppressed Detective Mendezs eyes scanned the room then she moved forward and stood on the other side of the easel Evelyn nodded Saturday night Grappone Conference Center in Concord Dinner at six awards at seven entertainment at eightthirty Royce perked up Entertainment says Jersey Boys _and_ a British Invasion set Bobby Vinton crooning and then Beatles tributes Now thats an evening Mendez smiled Its a special eventrecognition for those outside of the State Police whove made a positive impact on New Hampshires safety Political dignitaries consultants citizenseveryone who matters will be there Ive arranged for transportation for those of us in need Connie called in from the kitchen Lewis and Clark can take six in their van Royce brightened again Im putting in a request they dress as Joe Friday and Bill Gannon from _Dragnet_ Event appropriate Mendez looked at Evelyn Thats all I have Evelyn nodded again as Mendez returned her assigned seat Evelyn picked up where she left off Item 2Arnie briefing She fixed her eyes on Arnie as he stood and crossed to the board Before we start working the details I think a bit more background is needed Evelyn glanced at her clipboard I suppose I can expand your time slot Proceed Then turning to Connie See I can be flexible Connie rinsing dishes at the sink per their agreed separation of duties chuckled without looking up Arnie cleared his throat Now that Mendez and Richards are here its the right time for context He spoke of _the Informant_ of the case years ago that had cost a life and left him and Franco carrying a weight that never lifted Francos voice was low I was played A person lost their life partly because I was distracted Its a nightmare that wont let goone Id change in a heartbeat Phylis squeezing a grip master shed pulled from one of her coat pockets sighed Too many doovers for me to countall of them exes Royce grinned Sounds like you could write a _Kiss and Tell_ book Book Phylis shot back More like a series Mendez raised a hand I have confidence in all of you but lets be clearthis is at least as dangerous as Primrose Take it seriously We had Operation Corkscrew for Primrose Evelyn said already writing We need a name and a buddy system No exceptions Richards spoke next tone measured Ive been briefed from the police side with Arnies input There may be international implications Ill stay connected while Im here but dont go rogue Last time we didnt even know Detective Mendez was on the right side until too late Evelyn checked her watch Were behind schedule And Royceif this continues no cake The metal tip struck plastic as Evelyn tapped the easel for emphasis Arnie raised his hands in surrender All right Evelyn Ill brief the group Arnie summarized what hed gleaned from the Beacon Archives and the tapes careful to stick to the plan he Mendez Richards and Franco had agreed on Three names of interest Evelyn pinned up their photos as he spoke Sandra Reilly Once Mayor Campbells press secretary now Patrick OSullivans campaign manager Connie frowned They didnt say much at the rally but they were impressed with my hosting skills Said theyd be happy to have me help with the campaign Im scheduled to go by their offices tomorrow Count me in Phylis said I have stuffing and stamping experience Ill come too Evelyn added Crossreferencing signatures digging into backgroundsits in my wheelhouse Vinnie Pantinari A contractor tied to kickbacks in the tapes Never proven died at Luccios in Bostonallegedly by choking on calamari Royce walked up to the picture studying it Ive seen this guy On a wall at Luccios in a photo with Frank Sinatra and Ted Williams Both signed it We should go back see if anyone there remembers him Youll never get a straight answer Evelyn warned Royces eyes gleamed Not unless we use our new weapon Connie folded her arms And whats that Charlie Royce said Hes a human tell machine He reads people like menus Royce sit down Evelyn snapped Im serious Youre as serious as the pickles in Phyliss pockets Connie shot back Slowly Phylis produced the jar of pickles from her coat and set them on the table giving Royce a look that said _youre on your own_ Why are you all turning on me Royce protested Calm down Arnie said Lets table it No Royce insisted Ill prove it Ill bring Charlie here and youll see Then well know what happened to Vinnie P As the argument heated Richards Mendez and Franco drifted to the counter for refills leaving the Bridge Club to settle their storm Royce turned to Arnie earnest now Let me bring Charlie If youre not impressed Ill drop it Arnie studied him Royce stood with arms folded a reddened face a serious scowl All right Fifteen minutes Then we get back on track Back in fifteenwith Charlie And I expect an extra slice of cake and an apology when you see what he can do The door shut harder than necessary behind him His footsteps thudded down the hall Connie leaned toward Evelyn Ev do you have a thirtyminute Royce tantrum in your agenda Evelyn flipped a page on her clipboard Its on the agendaRoyce padding Chapter 17 Reading the Room _Connies Stonegate Apartment_ While Royce was out the room buzzed with sidebar conversations Evelyn sat stiffly pointer across her lap visibly annoyed at the distraction Connie scanning the counter worried she didnt have enough clean plates and forks for dessert Phylis unbothered had produced a pair of noisecanceling headphones from her coat pocket and settled them over her ears Mendez and Franco leaned together in the corner whispering _What have you been up to Anyone new in your life_ Their voices blurred under the hum Richards had claimed a chair beside Arnie Yes just how I remember it he said Not always a welloiled machine but theres passion in this group Arnie surveyed the fractured scene and realized he had to restore order before Royce returned He strode to the counter picked up a spoon and clanked it sharply against a coffee mug Connie flinched Careful Arnie There are only four in that set Dont chip one if you can help it The room fell silent Only Phylis still humming along to something that vaguely resembled U2s _Sunday Bloody Sunday_ broke the quiet Evelyn waved her pointer frantically until Phylis tugged the headphones down What she asked I was vibing You interrupted Bono Arnie cleared his throat Before Royce gets back I need to say this Youre all smartvery smart But more than that you each bring strengths we rely on Evelyn you organize and decipher like no one else Connie you bring warmth and empathy Phylis you cut to the chase and see things plain And Royceyes Roycehas strengths He often notices what the rest of us miss And sometimes hes the only one willing to say it out loud A loud throat clear from the couch Arnie looked over at Phylis and gave a slight nod Sometimes He let that settle Detective Mendez and DCI Richards are here tonight as a courtesy Theres no official investigation no proven crime Theyre here as friends When Royce comes back treat him the way youd want to be treated if you felt unheard The words hung heavy The only sounds were the hum of the refrigerator and the creak of chairs as people shifted uncomfortably A minute passedcloser to fivebefore Connie finally spoke Arnies right We owe Royce that courtesy As if on cue the front door opened Royce stepped in with Charlie beside him relaxed as if strolling into a Sunday supper Royce cleared his throat Guys Im sorry I blew my top First off Willow and Digby are fine They ran out of popcorn so I set them up with _101 Dalmatians_ Digby needed relatable content That earned a ripple of smiles Royces shoulders were stiffer than usual his confidence thinner I know you all have your doubts He squared his shoulders and rested a hand briefly on Charlies arm But Im not wrong about this Ive seen with my eyes and heard with my ears what this man can do He smiled at Charlie and pivoted to an introduction Charlies here as a courtesy I told him this is a Missouri crowd_show me_ Hes not a dog doing tricks and I assured him thats not what we expect Charlie whod been silently studying the room chose his moment He nudged Royce then stepped forward Times precious so I wont ramble He glanced at Royce Youve set the bar a bit higher than we discussed on the walk over That cracked the tensionchuckles a few guffaws Let me tell you who Im not Im not a human lie detector I dont shout _bullshit_ every time someone lies Royce piped in _Poker Face_ Love that show I dont deduce like Sherlock Holmes based on a persons shoes or scuffed sleeve And Im not clairvoyantable to predict helicopters are about to land Radar Royce said _MASH_ I love this guy already Before Evelyn could cut in Charlie continued voice steady What I can do is read people and placeswithin reasonand anticipate decisionmaking For example I can tell Evelyn has reached her patience limit Evelyns eyebrow twitched but she said nothing Connies worried Francos mug is about to scar her polished coffee table Connie instinctively reached for a coaster then paused realizing he was right I noticed as soon as I walked in thered been a prep meetingyour body language gave it away Arnie led it I can see how he looks to reassure the group And that hes careful about what he shares Arnies jaw tightened Detective Mendez and Franco are midconversationand Id wager its not about case files Mendez smirked while Franco glanced away suddenly fascinated by the charcuterie board And Richardshes itching to slip away for a phone call keeps glancing at his watch hand Richards chuckled softly and turned his wrist over as if to prove the point The room was still You have work to do and I need to get back to the girls I can see you need to talk amongst yourselves He shifted his weight and searched the room Ill say this I look forward to getting to know you but Im not lobbying to join your band Im available however if the need arises He moved toward the doorthen paused and turned back And dont worry about finishing before eleven Willow and Kelly are fine Digbys in heaven With that Charlie slipped out the door clicking behind him Silence swelled just as after Arnies speech The Bridge Club sat stunned each face showing a shade of amazement Royce nodded toward the door He sees things Chapter 18 The Art of the Plan _Connies Stonegate Apartment_ Royce strutted back to the couch like a peacock showing off its feathers He dropped into his seat with a grin wide enough to stretch across the room then reached for Phylis She met him with a fist bump and together they rolled into a second movesomething clearly rehearsed and tucked away for just this sort of moment Royce ended with a flourish Let me eat cake Evelyn tapped her pointer against the corkboard Yes that was impressive But cake will wait Back to business Arnie where were we Royce slouched but the sparkle stayed in his eyes His moment in the sun had passed yet he leaned forward still hooked in Arnie rose again steady as ever Right Persons of interest Lets continue Sandra Reilly Evelyn turned to Connie Youve got the best handwriting Would you do the honors Connie dried her hands on a dish towel then slid between Mendez and Franco with a smile Evelyn passed her the Sharpie and together they began Tomorrow Evelyn dictated Connie Phylis and I head to the OSullivan campaign office Connie has her appointment with Sandra Reilly about host coordination Ill bring my envelopestuffing rubber tips Phylis announced And Ill be reviewing handwriting samples for comparison Evelyn added as well as digging into staffing Any other Sandra Reilly connections Connie wrote it all down in neat block letters Vinnie Pantinari Evelyn pointed to his picture Arnie filled in the history Contractor Boston kickbacks early nineties On tape he denied any ties to Mayor Campbell but duplicate invoices tell a different storySeaport Development paid legit cash dropped off elsewhere Arnies voice dropped Vinnie died at Luccios in 94 Accidental they said But he wasnt just an occasional customer Royce spotted his photo on the wallOl Blue Eyes and Ted Williams beside him Connie nodded And I got a tip If anyone holds the key to what really happened its Billy Lazzaro Franco set down a curl of prosciutto As you know Billys out of touch in Florida But I found someone else Manager at Luccios Names Lucchese Female Didnt catch the first name Meeting tomorrow seven pm Good work Arnie said Tomorrows our only shot before the gala After that the lights get brighter Royce you and Charlie come with me Royce rubbed his hands together The Mailman returns Charlie will have two jobs Arnie added Read the roomand make sure we dont overextend our stay Mendez leaned in Need wheels I can drop you a couple of blocks away Less fanfare Connie smirked Take her up on it If you show up in Royces ducttape Caddy youll never get past the matre d Franco can back her up on the stakeout Arnie nodded Well see how it plays Detective Mendez and I may have an opening with Billy Lazzaro himself if we can prove relevance But theres still work to do on that front Mendez inclined her head Franco expression unreadable went back to the charcuterie board Francis Chapman Evelyn pinned up the next photo Accountant Arnie said died in a supposed boating accident Franco volunteered Ill take point Portland Harbor rough weather sailboat found on the rocks Ruling was inexperience Ive got contacts in Portland Ill make some calls after the gala See if we can get police records This pairing earned nods of approval Solid capable Connie glanced over at the two of them with a warm knowing look Arnies phone chirped He glanced at the display then rose Sorry Take the gum and gloves assignments without meIll be right back Out on the footpath he opened his flip phone Arnie here Cahill came the voice Apologies for the late hour Something timesensitive Never too late for intrigue What have you got Just off with Fredricksour editorinchief Wants you for a Harborlight style piece Civilian role in public safety OSullivans attending the gala giving thanks Hes even agreed to an interviewwith you Arnie paced beneath the streetlamp gravel crunching Im part of the deal Cahill chuckled Apparently he thinks you did Boston a favor Hes signed off Fredricks wants an answer now What do you say Arnie exhaled Email me the details Ill respond tomorrow This could be your legacy Arnie Think on it Arnie stopped pacing then shot a glance to the pines as a barred owl hooted out _who cooks for you_ He ended the call slipped the phone away and returned to Connies apartment Inside laughter spilled across the room Arnie paused in the doorway Phylis stood center stage blackened teeth courtesy of Black Jack gum mimicking Red Skeltons Freddie the Freeloader Royce was doubled over Connie had tears in her eyes even Evelyn had collapsed into a chair Royce waved Arnie in Perfect timing Phylis is killing it Arnie blinked I was gone ten minutes What happened Connie caught her breath We finished the assignments Royce and Phylis to the candy storethen she took the stage Arnie smiled Well heres another thought he said as he made his way to the front of the group Charlies got a gift for reading people Hes already with Willow and Kelly If Richards agrees lets have him run the candy store check Two kids and a dog wont raise alarms And if he shows the drivers photo he should be able to get a sense if theres a connection there Phylis pouted So were benched Not benched Arnie said gently Reassigned Youre with Connie tomorrow RoyceCharlies your partner for Boston Royce nodded pleased Im good with it Hell do fine Phylis shrugged Ok but Ill need him to pick up a few things for me Richards added Ill speak with him tonight If hes willing Willow and Kelly will play cover Digbys already a natural Settled then Evelyn said briskly First thing tomorrow Arniephone call important Cahill from The Beacon Arnie replied OSullivans speaking at the gala Wants to thank us publicly They want me to write a Harborlight style piece Franco raised an eyebrow And OSullivans fine with that But I expect theres a motive Cahill claims theres no ill will from 94 But the editors pushing What did you say Richards asked Told him Id think on it Connie leaned in Wherever OSullivan goes Sandra Reilly follows Perfect chance to get a read on both Another Charlie moment Evelyn tapped her pointer Back to the board Driver glovescovered between the candy store and gala Gala marked situational Tape analysisFranco Converting cassettes to digital Franco reported Nothing new yet Ill run checks on voice patterns Richards offered Franco nodded agreement Connie noted the assignment With tasks laid out Evelyn recapped from the easel Connie emerged from the kitchen carrying strawberry shortcake Now that weve earned it And yes Royce biggest piece for you Royce extended his hand Phylis reached into her coat and produced an oversized fork passing it to him with a flourish I came prepared Laughter rippled through the room as Richards rose One more thing He gestured to the wrapped object on the counter Arnie the honors Arnie tore the paper free revealing an oil painting of the Bridge Club midlaughter I commissioned it Richards said softly A reminder of the impression you madeand continue to make He lifted a second package Inside was a dog bowl inscribed _From McTavishAcross the Pond Always on Patrol_ Arnie watched the room settle as cups of tea and coffee were poured out and slices of cake served Even Royce sat quietly for a moment before raising a healthy bite in his oversized fork To us Chapter 19 Bits and Pieces _Peterborough Campaign Headquarters Life is Sweet Candy Shoppe_ Royce pulled the Cadillac into the campaign office lot and right into a handicap space Life in the fast lane Heres your spot Phylis They should paint your name on it if youre coming here often he said triumphantly Evelyn rolled her eyes before the door was even open and Phylis muttered You need to brake earlier Connie running late and bristling at the thought hopped out first sweatshirt blaring _Independents for OSullivan_ Independents are the biggest voting block in New Hampshire Connie said as they walked in We can pick a party on primary day vote then switch back as soon as weve cast our ballot Evelyn gave her a flat look as they pushed through the double doors Are you rehearsing Ive lived here all my life Do you think I dont know that Theyre called _Unaffiliated_just under forty percent Connie was already halfway down the hall toward Sandra Reillys office before Evelyn could finish her statistical retort Five minutes later Royce guided Phylis into the communications room Hed waited in the car while she snapped on her rubber fingertips ready for battle with envelopes Phylis crunched her walker brakes Rows of staffers hunched over glowing screens No flyers No stamps No envelopes in sight Whats going on here Phylis hissed to Royce You cant run a campaign without paper This guys lost before hes started A young woman in a bright green OSullivan tee approached Oh we do everything by text and email now Healthier for the planetand better outreach Phylis slumped Thats crap Flyers make great bookmarks They fill mailboxes They bring joy into the world Royce rubbed his lower back I mightve stayed on the job longer if I didnt have to lug campaign flyers every election cycle Im not staying here Phylis declared Just then her phone buzzed with her _Life in the Fast Lane_ ringtone She glanced at the screen Ive got to take this she said Go tell the others were out of here Fine Royce said Meet you back in five You can come with meI need to upgrade my outfit for Boston While Royce went to find Connie Phylis took her call pacing toward the window Her voice softened Oh sweetheart no dont worry about that Well talk tonight A pause then You know Im proud of you right Just keep your head down for now She ended the call quietly tucking the phone into her purse and glancing around the office By the time Royce returned she was at the reception desk rummaging like a bloodhound Black Jack she whispered In the corner sat a small package labeled _Life Is Sweet_ Phylis took a breath then fakesneezed Black Jack and tilted her head Gesundheit Royce said with a nod Outside Royce dialed Arnie Update Black Jack package spotted Phylis in my custody Shes helping me upgrade my outfit for Boston tonight Dont overdo it Arnie cautioned Were using a coupon What could go wrong Royce said grinning Sandra Reillys Office Connie checked in at reception Hello Im Rickitheythem May I help you Connie squinted Good morning Im Connie Meshe You mean sheher Ah of course Connie said with a shrug breezing toward Sandras office with her trademark smile Sandras running a bit behind Ricki said Please take a seatshell be right with you Connie sat pretending to read a twoyearold issue of _Better Gardens_ Her head was down but her eyes peeked over the top as she checked out the surroundings the whiteboard of colorcoded schedules the campaign slogans halferased the closed door with muffled voices behind it Supply Closet Espionage Evelyn clipboard tucked tight wandered toward the break room Silent The hum of a copier drew her toward the supply closet She slipped inside keeping the door cracked just enough to see without being seen A man stood at the copier phone buzzing in his hand Through the whir and click of paper Evelyn caught fragments Sandra arranged time sensitive drop off He gathered the copies and turned just enough for Evelyn to glimpse a black gloved hand She raised a hand to her mouth frozen until he left When she finally stepped out someone reached for the door from the other side This room is a messand this campaigns barely begun Evelyn said briskly Postit notes mixed with paper clipsthats oil and vinegar and marched off as if she belonged there In the restroom she dialed Arnie Update no handwriting sampleseverythings digital Suspicious conversations but nothing specific Saw black gloved hand at copierbut didnt see whose hand was in it and cant be sure it was a driving glove Life Is Sweet Charlie pulled up to the Stonegate main building in his cherryred 1967 Ford Fairlane its V8 purring like a tiger at idle He reached across and opened the passenger door Willows eyes went wide Whoa this is so cool Mr S But it only has two doorshow do we all fit Charlie flipped the seat forward Digby leapt in first nose busy searching for forgotten snacks Willow followed bouncing once on the seat Kelly slid into the front Grandpas had this car forever Yup May be old but its still got plenty of life left Charlie said revving it lightly Now buckle upweve got a candy store to case During the twentyminute drive he briefed them Ill handle the questions You two browse smile split up Keep an eye out for anything strange Remember the code word_Jelly Bellys_ If someone says it distract the manager But dont break anything okay Got it Kelly said adding with a grin Were going to candy crush it Charlie chuckled Thats the spirit Within two steps of entry they were greeted with a smile and the stock welcome Charlie smiled as he glanced to her tag Cindy Cane Store Manager The girls couldnt resist stopping inand we promised folks at Stonegate wed restock their stash before Easter visitors While the girls and Digby explored Charlie drifted to the gum section Theyll be fineand the dogs well behaved he said seeing Cindy fidget and bite the corner of her lip Quite a shop he said Reminds me of when my folks took me to the candy store as a kid You must get a lot of shipmentsspecial packages Cindys voice quivered We try to keep deliveries out of sight Theres not much room in back Nice and neat out here he said watching her shoulders relax Do you carry anything that turns teeth black he asked casually Licorice I suppose She pointed toward the display case He clicked on his phone swiveled the screen and presented a photo of OSullivans driver taken at the rally You ever seen this man She tensed and pushed the phone away palm out You need to leave Now Charlie smiled faintly and lifted his volume a tick But we cant go home without Jelly Bellys On cue Kelly pulled a lever Jelly beans poured past the bag and onto the floor Oh noIm so sorry Digby dove in snuffling sugar Charlie watched Cindy rush over to stop the candy avalanche He nodded as he made eye contact with Willow who had drifted near the back room entrance Cindy fell to the floor as Digby darted for getaway skittles Kelly performed her role of trying to corral Digby holding the leash as if trying to clip him in Back on her feet Cindy spread her hands and shooed them towards the front Get out Get out Cindys voice sharpened Out Now And wheres the other girl Who me Willow popped up from behind the back row holding up three bags of Reeses Pieces I was deciding between regular chocolate cookie and caramel Cindy took the bags flustered Have a nice day she said tightly hands trembling Outside Charlie opened the Fairlane door Digby bounded in tail wagging No one spoke until they turned the corner That was a panic Kelly said Did you spot anything Willow nodded Just a bunch of boxes Not much candy back there And some old arcade machines that only take nickels She opened the pictures app on her phone and passed it up front When I was your age machines used to take a penny The girls exchanged eye rolls as Charlie scrolled through the images Well done girlsand Digby You made my job easierand a lot more fun Kelly grinned That was better than candy You crushed it Charlie said passing the phone back and easing into gear Chapter 20 Top Shelf _Luccios Restaurant Boston North End December 1994_ Boston was running warm for December the kind of damp mildness that teased a reprieve before the real chill came down with the wind Inside Luccios the weather didnt matter Burntorange walls leatherbacked chairs white cloths over dark woodeverything invited you to settle in but not enough to get sloppy This was a place for class and comfort underwritten with a quiet edge Vinnie pushed through the Richmond Street front door coat swinging loose face already glowing with good cheer The oldworld smells of marinara and garlic beckoned him in A table of ten was nearly full laughter rising above the clink of glasses Dean Martin crooned On an Evening in Roma as if seeping through the walls and the streets of Rome were right outside the door Vinnie Pwhat took you so long a voice rang out from the far end of the table Someone stole my parking spot he fired back flashing a lighthearted eye at the few who looked up He worked the table shoulder taps handshakes booming greetings How about that _Thirst for Peace_ at Hollywood Park Vinnie crowed Eighteentoone clean as a whistle Nice payday for services rendered How much did you lay came another shout from one of the guys angling for the last garlic bread stick on the table Enough to buy the table a roundtop shelf That got a roar Hear that Sofia Wake up the Van Winklefifteen year Vinnie grinned shaking the last hand before sliding toward his chair The man beside him leaned in voice low Billys in the back Wants a word before you get settled For a beat Vinnie stilled Then he clapped the fellows shoulder Be right back Make sure I get my whiskey And if I miss the ordercalamari Been craving it all day He flashed a smile and walked away though his step slowed as he neared the bar Billy waited in a darkened booth wiry and still his smile all Cheshire cat charm Shorty loomed beside him a mountain in a suit Billy didnt risejust motioned Vinnie into the opposite seat glass swirling in his hand the liquid inside the color of burned honey Vinnie couldnt see his eyes in the shadowsonly the glint of light catching the ice cube in Billys whiskey like a signal from something colder beneath the surface You dont have a drink Billy said Where are our manners Shorty fix Vinnie what Im having When the fresh glass arrived Billy leaned forward Hows the family Got plans for Christmas when things slow down He raised his glass They clinked Then Billys smile thinned So Vinnie I need you to clear something up Whispers say collections are lightespecially Seaport And maybe someones doubledipping city contracts I told myself Id go to the man who could set it straight Vinnies hand trembled as he lifted his drink First Ive heard Boss Ive kept the playbook Books are clean Cash passed along as instructed Nothing redirected nothing rerouted Billys eyes stayed locked on him Then why would I be hearing it Boss Ill find out Vinnie said sweat already forming at his brow Billy let the silence stretch Then lightly And I hear the familys headed for a little RR Where The Caymans Wifes set on itkids want to swim with stingrays And you Just want to read on the beach Whats on the list Murder Machine Havent had the time Billy gave a slow smile Light reading indeed He stood stiff but deliberate Looks like foods about ready Dont want it getting cold With a nod to Shorty he slipped out the back pausing to give Sofia an affirming glance as she balanced trays at the counter near the kitchen door Sofia shifted the tray higher on her shoulder and reached back along the counter with her free hand Her fingers met air Catch Shorty said The silver shaker arced toward her She caught it against her apron Thanks she said flashing him a quick smile She sprinkled pepper flakes over the calamari set the shaker on the counter and swept into the dining room By the time Vinnie made it back to the gathering his whiskey from Billy was already drained a fresh glass waiting at his place He glanced at his plate then at the new glass The room was laughing and he joined right in He raised his whiskey high Boys This round brought to you by _Thirst for Peace_ By a nose I might add Peace be with you Laughter Glasses lifted Vinnie dug into the calamari chewing with relish Two bites in his face flushed scarlet His hand clawed at his throat as he staggered up then dropped hard convulsing Chairs scraped back as heads turned some instinctively reaching for their piece On the floor lay a lifeless Vinnie A tentacle protruded grotesquely from his mouth He was gone before anyone could grasp the moment Too heavy for the Heimlich too sudden for aid Silence clamped the table Then one man reached for Vinnies untouched glass Cant let this go to waste Top shelf Chapter 21 Mixed Signals _OSullivan Campaign Headquarters Cheshire Medical Life is Sweet Road to Boston_ Good Morning Connie said as she approached the desk out front of Sandra Reillys office All she could see was the back of two monitors and the top of a bleach dyed head mounted with large headphones Im here to meet Sandra No response other than the sound of fingers flying across a keyboard Pause A hand raised off the keyboard finger pointed towards the door off to the rightthen lowered and continued their Riverdance Connie pulled a wrapped muffin from her bag and placed in on the counter When you come up for air Its blueberry She smiled at the bobbing head and moved to the cracked open door with a Campaign Manager name plate affixed Connie tapped and spoke at the same time Knock knock She pressed the door open a foot and pressed her head through Sandra Reilly stood with arms crossed in front of a rough map of southern New Hampshire cities and towns starred and dated She turned her head with an initial frown that transformed to a big smile Ms Clark Welcome Come on in Join me Oh please call me Connie she said as she entered Of course Connie We were impressed with how smoothly the Peterborough event ran on announcement day Can we count on you for our Southern New Hampshire swing Oh honey thats a lot of travel and work Not sure I could pull it off Connie said stalling Sandra slid a sheet from a neat stack Heres a scheduledates locations Weve arranged for residents to host gatherings in their homes Your skill set would be invaluable Connie brightened How many is a small gathering Oh a hundred or so Connies jaw dropped For all these dates You wouldnt need to attend them all Just the first few to train others A trainthetrainer setup No need to decide nowyoull be at the gala in Concord tomorrow Lets reconnect then Connie saw her window closing Thats right I hear Pat will be there Pat Sandra arched an eyebrow and tightened a smile preventing it from coming through You mean Senator OSullivan Come on Sandra youve been with him since his deputy mayor days right Werent you his intern Must be very friendly terms Connie gave her best _theressomethinggoingon_ look and added a wink for good measure Let me think on it she said rising Ill let you know at the gala On her way out Connie turned and looked back at the white board Looks like youve got a lot more than RSVPs to manage these days Sandra paused Schedules Drop offs Sensitive materials How do you manage She smiled walked out and pulled the door to a soft click Lingering she fished out her lip balm long enough to catch Sandras muffled voice through the door _we may have a problem_ Connie slipped past the receptionists desk The muffin was gone Toodleoo she said as she double tapped the desk top and strolled past She spotted Evelyn in reception leafing through voter rolls As Connie approached she snapped her clipboard closed and fell in step Youd be very impressed with Sandras office organization and her use of whiteboards And her use of color coding without clashingvery impressive Connie swiveled her head with a questioning look Where are Royce and Phylis she asked Gone Phylis decided shopping with Royce beat putting her fingers to a keyboard Connie pursed her lips Words escape me I guess were walking By the time they reached the street Connies radar was humming Somethings off Cant pin it but I feel it Youve been quiet What are you thinking Evelyn gave a short nod Trying to absorb and process Pray tell Connie replied slowing her pace and turning to face her Evelyn continued I overheard a man in the supply room Something about a shipment Sensitive And he was wearing a glove Black leather For once neither was steady Arnies holding back Connie said Yes Evelyn agreed She unexpectedly reached her hand out and grabbed Connies forearm to stop her And were going to press him until he talks Outside campaign headquarters OSullivans driver lingered at the curb a package tucked under his arm Into his phone Made the copies you asked about He slid behind the wheel detoured to Staples for an efax then drove the package to the back door drop No Black Jack waiting Bad sign Inside Cindy Cane slipped into the storeroom phone clamped to her ear The heats on We had a little incident Old man asking questionsshowing photos Everything looks secure but youd better pick this up and clear it out One more drop came in but that needs to be the last I cant keep this up From the other end You are not the one calling the shots Youll do as I say or you will find yourself in a sour patch kid Pause Good one eh The line went dead At his kitchen table Arnie spread Cahills packet across the wood and flipped open his phone Im in Harborlight piece gala interview with Sullivan Youve got me Arnie shifted the photos and papers like puzzle pieces Cahill sounded relieved Knew you would One thing Arnie said picking up a yellowed sheet with the Boston City Hall imprint Got contacts at the mayors office Early nineties I want their records room What for Arnies jaw set I want the unvarnished file If theres anything on Campbells early dealsOSullivans fingerprints includedI want to see what didnt make the papers They store records in the same archive we use at the Beacon Cahill said Ill line it up But after the gala piece Thatll work Arnie clicked the phone shut Turn here Phylis said from the passenger seat This isnt the way to Kohls Royce shot back Need to make a stop first A few turns later Royce pulled into the Cheshire Medical Complex following her pointing finger toward a handicap space in front of the Cancer Center Whoa Royce said putting the car in park This is serious You okay Whats going on Well talk But first I need to get inside They opened a slot for me She already had the door cracked open ready to hit the pavement Come on get a move on Royce hurried around to pull her walker from the trunk and set it in place You sure you dont want a wheelchair Ill tell you when I need a wheelchair she snapped Its not today Midway across the crosswalk she stoppednot out of weakness but to make her point And dont you breathe a word of this to anyone You understand Royce nodded Good she said And stop walking like Im going to crumble any minute Im in midseason pickleball shape I can outlast half the residents at Stonegate At reception they checked in Before she could sit a nurse appeared and ushered Phylis toward the back The waiting area was half fullfaces pale and drawn bodies anchored into cushioned chairs surrounded by ferns and rock gardens A Yanni instrumental floated through ceiling speakers Royce found an empty cubby of chairs and slumped into it adopting the same blank stare as everyone else Phylis was led into a small conference room a wooden table six chairs a monitor on the wall Dr Samuel Verityher new oncologistrose to greet her Please have a seat Phylis The nurse pulled out a chair near the door and Phylis lowered herself with a grunt of determination Can we get you anything Water No Did you come with anyone youd like to join us Im good she said Fire away Dr Verity hesitated folding his hands Im afraid the results arent what we hoped He gestured toward the monitor The biopsy from your endoscopic ultrasound confirms pancreatic adenocarcinoma Phylis didnt blink The CT scan shows the primary tumor in the head of the pancreas he continued steady and measured and there are lesions in the liver consistent with metastases That places this at Stage IV Phylis nodded slowly lips pressed tight How long Dr Verity continued careful but direct Without treatment the median survival is typically measured in months Three to six is common With chemotherapy some patients live closer to nine to twelve months Occasionally longer But the treatment can be physically taxing Phylis tilted her head Taxing how Fatigue Nausea Neuropathy Frequent infusions Hospital visits So Id be sick as a dog spending most of my time in here just to get a few extra weeks She shook her head Pass Dr Veritys voice softened Thats completely understandable Some patients feel the tradeoff is worthwhile Every day is precious I wanted you to have the information so you could decide whats best for _you_ Dr Verity closed the folder Have you completed advance directives or named a healthcare proxy Its just me In that case Id strongly recommend we document your wishes while youre feeling clearheaded Would you like us to coordinate with Stonegates medical staff or is there someone you trust to act as your proxy Phylis turned to the nurse by the door I came in with a fellow Hes out in the waiting roomPatriots hoodie probably hovering by the vending machines Can you call him in A minute later Royce appeared guided to the chair beside her Before he could speak Phylis placed her hand firmly on his arm Royce I need you to hear this Doctor tell him Dr Verity met Royces eyes Phylis has Stage IV pancreatic cancer with liver metastases Without treatment prognosis is three to six months Shes chosen to decline chemotherapy Royce froze His face slackened He blinked hard Phylis Theres no debate she cut in I need someone to make decisions for me if I cant And youre it She motioned for the doctor to hand him the form Sign She snatched the ballpoint pen from the table and jabbed it toward his hand Go on Why me he asked quietly Because youll do what I ask without trying to save me Royces throat worked His eyes glistened as he looked at herthis ironwilled woman who refused to bend even to death Phyliss tone softened as she saw Royce struggling to process what hed just been told She rested her hand over his Will you do this for me Royce wiped the corner of his eye with his sleeve looked at the form then back at her A ghost of a smile formed as he signed then rested his hand over hers and gave it a gentle squeeze You had me at hello Chapter 22 Setting the Table _Bostons North End Luccios Restaurant_ By late afternoon Mendez pulled to the curb in an unmarked van Arnie Royce and Charlie climbed in Charlie smoothing his bowtie like curtain call was minutes away Francos already in Boston Mendez said merging into traffic Hell have eyes on Luccios before we arrive Good I expect movement on their end No one Id rather have in place Arnie said while studying his notebook Richards swiveled his body to look toward the trio in the back Anything to share on your end Arnie moved his pencil down the page Life Is Sweet reacted Theres definitely a connection there I saw a trace of fear when I showed her the pic of OSullivans driver Charlie contributed Arnie continued Connie rattled Sandrawho made a call out as soon as she left Evelyn picked up on a suspicious conversation about drop offs And Royce Silence Royce stared out the window but didnt respond Royce you back there Arnie asked You ok Charlie nudged him What Royce said as he turned his head to Charlie Any update Oh Phylis spotted Black Jack Nothing much else He turned back and looked out as the cruiser merged onto I93 headlights stretching into dusk Ahead Bostons North End Luccios And Lucchese Leah nosed the unmarked van into a loading zone on Cross Street fronting North Station where the city pulsed like a heartbeat Preevening in Boston pedestrians in escape mode delivery trucks doubleparked doors yawning as crates slid toward kitchens Plenty of bustle for a daylight dropoff to disappear inside The van idled Richards stayed in the passenger seat eyes on the mirrors Leah twisted to study the back Youre wound a bit tight Charlie said leaning in to Arnie Remember it isnt all you Dial it back and youll get more Then over to Royce on his other side You ready Royce fished out a wrapped toothpick and offered it like a magicians reveal Not what I had in mind Charlie said reaching past to snap a dangling price tag from Royces sleeve Royce lifted his hands grin crooked Thirty percent off Welcome back Charlie shifted toward the curbside door then paused You dont know me well yet Youre going to have to trust me You collect the intel Ill keep an eye on room temperature and logistics and make sure we always have a way out Its your show Arnie And me Royce asked hopeful like a bit player chasing a line Arnie blinked back to the present Soak up the atmosphere Make mental notes Blend in like an appreciative fine diner A beat And no mailman or Goodfella references Dont tell anyone you think theyre funny Okay Royce pressed both hands to his chest Who me Leah popped the locks As they climbed out Richards added a parting note through the open window Francos in position Eyes on Keep to the plan dinner and conversation and itll go well Well look for you on Hanover in ninety minutes unless we get the takeaway signal His mouth twitched But I hear the food is good and you wouldnt want to rush Arnie slid the door shut stepped to the passenger window and rested both hands on the frame Only Richards could hear him Dont wait for me if we get split up Ill find my way back Hopefully it wont come to that Richards said You dont need to solve it all in one night Arnie doubletapped the window frame a small sendoff and fell in beside Charlie and Royce They found the North End rhythm that halfshuffle of tourists and locals and joined the flow Luccios was already abuzz at four on a Friday half the tables filled older couples leaning close nobody interested in a late night when an early one would do Aromatic nirvana garlic and butter in low conversation tomatoes simmered with basil a redwine bouquet with earthy undertones Servers moved in precise rhythm an operatic warmth carrying the room Arnie led them to the wooden host stand The matre d played the part in black and white hair slicked to a shine thin mustache skin like old leather eyes that missed nothing May I help you he asked Were here to see Ms Lucchese Arnie said A glance to the book a question hovering Shes expecting us at four And you are Arnie Price he said And associates One moment The maitre d drifted to a young man in shirtsleeves with an inventory clipboard and spoke without moving his mouth A single nod in reply Charlie leaned in lips barely moving Theyll try to separate us If he says only you can go back see if you can bring her out instead The matre d returned and pointed at Arnie Follow me They started forward Just you he added smiling a practiced smile Arnie stopped Weve been on the road most of the day Any chance we can take a table and Ms Lucchese can come out to us Not possible sir Charlie brightened Could we at least get a picture like the ones on your wall At our assisted living theyll never believe we were guests without proof Im sorry the matre d said the apology as thin as his mustache I only deliver the message Youre welcome at the bar but thats the best I can do Royce had already turned toward the bar Is that Matt Damon and Ben Affleck with Ms Lucchese he asked zeroing in on a framed photo Wow I wonder what they ordered A long blink from the matre d The inventory man behind him gave a small nod A pencil made a mark on the stand Sirs this way We can seat you I cant promise Ms Lucchese will come out If you wish to go back Mr Price tell your waitress and shell see if that can be arranged They were led to an outoftheway table that looked conjured for them an emergency letsnotraiseascene landing spot away from arriving patrons Smart placement out of the main flow but visible This is good Charlie murmured choosing a chair with a clean sightline to the kitchen corridor Dont be in a hurry to ask Shell come out if shes curious How do you know that Arnie asked Because Id come out Charlie said And she didnt get where she is by letting questions walk in the door without knowing what they are Especially questions from a shared past Give it a minute of table talk Breadcrumbs only They sat Royce with his back to the wall Charlie leaned forward as if studying the wine list and whispered Royce were counting on your powers of silent observation The waitress arrived with a clear pitcher of water and a warm basket of focaccia wrapped in burgundy cloth Two small bowls of oil and spices accompanied Royce had his napkin tucked before the bread hit wood Good evening gentlemen she said Have you been to Luccios before Oh yes Royce said But we didnt get a chance to eat last time Charlie sent him a look over the top of the menu Royce tilted his head and shaped his mouth into a quiet oops The waitress flowed on unbothered reciting the specials like a poem she liked veal saltimbocca linguine vongole branzino with lemoncaper butter Ill give you a few minutes she finished setting a carafe and three stems on the table Compliments of Luccios our house chianti while you look Grazie Mille Charlie said meaning it Arnie watched the wine catch the light Okay he said softly Showtime Royce remember your line and when to say it Timing is everything Royce nodded already drifting toward gastronomic bliss They poured Charlie surveilled the room Arnie ticked his mental checklist Royce put his nose to the glass Earthy and complex Fullbodied The good stuff The climate around them settled laughter and bravado the small clinks of contentment At the bar a stocky man with no neck watched the front door in the mirror occasionally glancing at a Racing Form His thumbs worked a phone when something caught his eye The kitchen door flapped a small woman in a white jacket crossed the pass lifted a lid nodded disappeared Charlie tore off a thumb of bread and said conversationally loud So this was Billys spot for nearly forty years Mustve been hard to let go It came down to blood versus greenbacks Arnie said Blood won From what I hear hes got a good life in Florida No more Boston winters He shrugged Takes longer each year to thaw them out Royce to his credit kept his eyes moving and his mouth shut absorbing the choreography who might be watching who was listening who was acting He took mental notes for later recall artfully dipped his bread and admired each sip of wine under his breath The waitress returned for the order Arnie asked for the seafood risotto Charlie went for linguine alle vongole And for you sir Hmmm Royce said buying time He tapped the menu I was really looking forward to calamari but I heard someone died from that in this restaurant so probably better to go a different direction Heard he was popular Vinnie P Dont see his picture on the wall though No comment from the waitress The professional neutral What can I get you face held Lasagna he said at last Thats safe Oh and more bread He handed over the empty basket Of course she said and glided away Arnie let a minute pass Two The dining room tuned itself around their table A busboy drifted near then didnt The waitress paused at the bar as if asking the bartender for a drink order Mr NoNeck checked the mirror signaled a refill thumbed out a message The staff flow stayed in sync Okay Charlie said Message passed Expect a visitor Scout first maybe He smiled into his wine Breadcrumbs The kitchen door swung again and out came the younger man from earlier now nattily dressed and heading their way bread basket and a small bowl in hand Gentlemen welcome to Luccios I hear youve taken to our focaccia I was able to pry some extra Vecchio balsamic from the back to enhance your experience Everything to your satisfaction so far Charlie got there first Wonderful place Wine and bread are fabulous Were looking forward to the entrees Our friends back at Stonegate will be so jealous Any chance Ms Lucchese can join us for a photo and answer a couple of questions Im afraid Ma is swamped at the moment Im her son Bruno Perhaps I can help Royces face lit Before he could speak Charlie squeezed his arm Arnie stepped in Thank you for the hospitality Were looking to learn more about some things that happened here likely before you were born We understand your mother was a waitress here in the early 90s and wed just like to ask a few informal questions for background Bruno considered How about you ask me first What I cant answer either I or my younger brother Dino will get back to you on The waitress appeared behind Bruno with their dishes balanced on a round tray and a flip stand tucked under her arm In a practiced motion she set the stand staged the plates and began to serve Wed prefer to talk to your mom directly Arnie said If tonight doesnt work well move on with our inquiries without her input Thank you again for your gracious hospitality Charlie added watching the plates land This is a meal we will savor and long remember Royces powers of observation locked onto the steaming lasagna Very well Bon Appetit Bruno said and turned away The waitress too began to retreat One more thing Royce called She turned questioning Parmesan Royce said Of course She left unhurried Now we wait Charlie said And we eat If were lucky she introduces herself before dessert If not He lifted his glass we do the oldfashioned thing and make ourselves interesting Arnie took a breath forced a smile and lifted his glass Halfway through the meal Royces eyes drifted from the surroundings to the table You going to finish that he said as Charlie set down his silverware Charlie slid the plate a few inches in Royces direction Arnie was finishing the last of his risotto when the lighting dimmed over his plate He finished his bite then reached for the cloth napkin on his lap as the shadow darkened Gentlemen a woman said warm but upholstered I hear youve had a long trip Arnie looked up The white jacket was gone replaced by a black dress and a string of pearls The eyes were the same precise measuring Ms Lucchese Arnie said as if her name were a compliment We were just admiring your house red Then lets talk she said While theres still some in your glasses Charlie set his napkin down satisfied Royce swallowed sat taller tried not to beam The plan such as it was had done what it needed The table was set Chapter 23 Serving Up the Past _Bostons North End Luccios Restaurant_ Leah slid the black van to the curb on Fulton Street nose to the pay lot The air had that North End bite salt exhaust low tide faint on the wind the kind of evening that made you pull that winter cap low and shove your hands deep in your jacket pockets Franco rolled up on the Fury engine shouldering a low growl He cut it flipped his visor Leah rapped a knuckle on the helmet Extra for me Franco took his off and just smiled The side door thumped open Franco slipped inside leather and cold air following him A small console was already rigged on the driverside backseat laptop headphones a tangle made neat by gaffers tape Richards passed him a Dunkin cup with the lid already snapped Looks like you could use this Still a bit nippy for evening rides Thick skin and layers Franco said He peeled off his gloves with his teeth took a test sip blew into the lid then a full swallow Warms the cockles Leah smiled Richards did not He had the look of a third wheel who knew it Charlie all set Franco asked settling the headphones Mic in his bow tie Richards said Your timing is perfect They just ordered one serving of didnt Vinnie P choke on calamari back in 94 Francos fingers sprinted across the keyboard Sounds like some background noise that needs a bit of tuning Leah cocked an ear toward the laptop Oh thats just Royce moaning over the bread and the celebrity photos Im sure Arnie will get him under control The speaker popped and then cleared A womans voice the one theyd been waiting for came through steady and warm Gentlemen I hear youve had a long trip Sounds clean Leah said You expected less Francos smile showed in his voice as the tables small talk threaded past I understand you have some questions How can I help you Ms Lucchese wed like Arnie began Please she said Call me Sofia Royce again unmistakable Named after Sophia Loren Oh I loved her films especially Marriage Italian Style Her and Marcello priceless A beat of silence rippled through the van This is where either Arnie or Charlie reel him in with a look Richards muttered Or a headlock Franco said Sofias voice returned firmer No its spelled with an F A small pause For family A notsosubtle message Franco said Rustling A deeper male voice closer to the mic Ma were going to need you in the back in ten minutes max Her voice again lighter for the staff and then trained back on the table Thanks dear Im sure this will be quick Gentlemen this is my son Dino I believe you met my other son Bruno when you first arrived More rustle Tell your father Ill be back shortly Bruno and Dino Leah said Youre kidding And we still havent heard Royce hum the Flintstones theme Richards added There was never a Bruno on that show Franco said If shed said Bronto youd have needed a gag He took another swallow of coffee and they settled into listening the vans heater crackling under the dialogue Sofia Arnie said at the table steadying the air Thank you for meeting us And for your warm and gracious hospitality Charlie added She nodded approving but guarded We realize you dont have much time Arnie said A thumbnail I was an investigative reporter at the Beacon in the 90s I know who you are she said All three of you Your contact Franco is it provided the who Lets fast forward to the what Were reviewing what happened in 94 around City Hall corruption Arnie said I wrote a piece back then Ive been told theres more Im looking for answers New answers What could that possibly have to do with me And why not ask the person who raised the flag Not so easy Arnie said They prefer to remain anonymous Were trying to find them In the meantime one of the key sources was Vinnie Pantinari Hes no longer with us Sofia watched him inviting more Arnie let the beat sit the pauses Charlie had asked for and then quietly But you already know that He died here in December 94 You were working You were his waitress Correct Sofia leaned a fraction closer still relaxed So far you seem to have the answers to your own questions Im not sure what youre getting at She glanced at her pricey Bulgari I have a couple of minutes Please get to the point Of course Arnie said Ill lay them out and you can choose your order How often did Vinnie come to Luccios Did he meet specific people regularly Anyone from City Hall or anyone you found odd Was anything unusual about his meal order Did you know him personally and is there anyone still around we should talk to Sofia reached for her glass took a small sip as if fueling the answer Thats a lot of questions Mr Price Please call me Arnie Arnie she echoed lightly I started here in the fall of 94 I was twentytwo on my own trying to survive My job was memorizing the menu and not dropping plates I knew nothing about happenings at Luccios beyond making sure the right wine met the right table I never knew a Vinnie Pantinari except what everyone saw that night I never saw him meet anyone special There was a group of men once a week at a twelvetop Three of us usually covered it My job was to serve and stay out of the way I didnt have time to take notes Charlie dabbed his mouth with his napkin the signal theyd agreed upon How about Billy and Marion Lazzaro Arnie asked Did they speak with Vinnie Were they here that night Yes as I recall Billy was here she said He always had a special seat in the back Men went to speak with him one on one My husband Shorty often kept him company and coordinated his service Honestly I dont recall whether Vinnie went back that night Charlie lifted his water a small sip the other signal Mrs Lazzaro never came into the restaurant Sofia went on Not that I saw They were oil and vinegar shake them and they were fine for a moment but better kept apart Billy used to say trinkets and travel were the best way to keep her happy Bruno reappeared at Sofias shoulder and bent close She listened then faced the table Im sorry I cant be of more help I have to get back We have two big parties coming in and prep to finish Good luck with your inquiries Give my best to Billy if you happen to run into him She began to rise Charlie slid a black glove from his lap and lifted it into view Is this yours We found it at the table when we sat down Something flickered surprise breaking through the polish gone almost as quickly Never seen it before The smile cooled to slate Do you have a lost and found Charlie asked Looks rather expensive Sofia took the glove and handed it to Bruno Here Take care of this Her tone left no doubt what care meant She turned back to the table Ill have the dessert menus brought out Your meal is on us tonight I hope you found your time worthwhile She turned to go Thank you again for meeting us and for the generosity Arnie said May I get back in touch if more questions come up Sofia held his gaze I wish you wouldnt That was a painful period here You are welcome to dine with us any time If you have specific followups you can reach out to Bruno She pivoted slightly Honey please give Mr Price Arnie your email address Bruno produced a card handed it over without a ripple and followed her toward the back disappearing through the door behind the bar Dessert menus landed immediately The waitress stayed put to take the order The air cooled a degree Well Royce reached but Charlie intercepted and gave the list Tiramisu panna cotta semifreddo Royce looked wounded then brightened at the words Arnie turned to Charlie Get what you needed Charlie nodded and flicked his eyes toward the bar Royce leaned in Mr NoNeck shot a glance over when you flashed the glove and started thumbing his phone like a machinegun Arnies flip buzzed One line on the tiny screen On the move Excuse me he said already pushing back Enjoy dessert Well debrief at Stonegate tomorrow morning in the dining hall Leah and Richards will get you back You be careful Charlie said Always Arnie said He was already halfway into his jacket when Royce called after him Ill take good care of your dessert Arnie Then muttering in a stage whisper Do not tell Connie This never happened But Arnie was at the door by then He hit the sidewalk as Franco ghosted to the curb The helmet was out before Arnie asked He swung on behind the seat like a man whod done this before settled gave a small forward lean that read ready Over the idle he said clear enough for Franco to catch Follow the glove Chapter 24 Got Your Back _Luccios Restaurant Bostons North End Stonegate Coopershill Irish Pub_ Back of house at Luccios was its own weather steam and garlic and the clatter of plates a thin radio somewhere under it all Sofia closed the office door behind her and found Shorty waiting big hands flat on the metal desk gaze steady So what did he want Shorty asked Money Dirt Hes been tipped that City Hall in 94 still has secrets buried Sofia said And that Vinnie Ps death wasnt an accident Shortys jaw set That old bone Bruno Sofia said show your dad what they pulled out Bruno held up a black glove One of your crews they said Let me see that His hand dwarfed it when he took it He turned it under the desk lamp checked the stitching the cuff Hmmm Too small even for you Bruno Dad dont go there Bruno said arms folded leaning against the doorframe No markings no tags Nothing to say whose Shorty dialed Lose your glove he asked the driver when he picked up A beat Figured Keep your eyes on the lot He hung up called Sandra Kitchen noise roared until Sofia thumbed the volume down Briefing you quick Shorty said into the phone Arnie Price was here City Hall 94 Vinnie P OSullivans driver wearing his glove these days Let me know He clicked off Shorty slapped the glove to Brunos chest Take your brother he said Pay a visit to our friend at The Beacon Bruno pocketed the glove On it After the door clicked Sofia and Shorty had the room again He took a towel from a stack and began wiping wine glasses checking them against the light habit settling in So he said Vinnie P Sofias temper simmered What were you thinking How could you let that happen back then Did Billy know what was going on Shorty didnt look up Circumstances A nod from Billywithout an ask Shorty said Crowded room Too many eyes Not enough You want to feel the truth He set the glass down turned to her Who carried the shaker Her breath caught What are we going to do if he digs deeper she asked The anger had cooled into something more useful He had a pit bull look to him Hes the reason Marions in prison and Billys exiled in Florida Shortys voice went quiet He smirked That worked out pretty good didnt it The jaw tightened We make sure whats buried stays buried He lifted another glass It was already spotless Arnie and Franco were a building off tucked in behind a dumpster and the warm stink jackets zipped engine idling Franco handled the spacing not as easy on a motorcycle but they needed to be prepared in case they caught a taxi or jumped in a waiting car They spotted Bruno and Dino head out the back into the service alley that ran wet even when it hadnt rained Twenty yards up they hung a sharp right and moved at a deliberate pace Bruno dwarfed in the shadow of his younger brother They folded into the early evening city flow At the corner of Hanover and Cross they had the green but hung back Dino fished out a pack cupped the flame drew slow Bruno stared into his phone thumbed something in and out then pocketed it On the next green they crossed with the crowd They have a rhythm Franco said One smokes one texts You look over my back Ill look over yours Hard for Bruno to look over Dino Arnie said Hes a foot taller and a boxcar wider Then hell use reflections Franco said Watch the glass They made it up to Haymarket Dino checked a bakery window Bruno checked the courtyard No flares of suspicion just a pair of men who had learned to walk without inviting conversation At One Beacon they didnt pause They disappeared into the entry revolving door swallowed by marble and security lighting Franco zoomed his phone camera Through the glass he caught them approaching the security desktalking to someone at _The Beacon_ reception Too far to make out who The Beacons up in that stack Franco said eyes on the tenant board through the glass Weve seen all we need Arnie said He checked his watch Fivethirty Not like Cahill to stay past five on a Friday He kept his face neutral voice low Are they here for him or someone else You could buzz him Franco said See if he picks up Arnie thought about it shook his head Charlies right We dont need to solve it all tonight He looked up at the building again But I do have questions for Cahill next time we talk They drifted away at sidewalk speed two men who could have been discussing a Sox score In the van Leah took the long way back to Stonegate to pick up fragments Charlie and Royce tossed into the air Sofia wasnt fully truthful Charlie said But she didnt feel like she was hiding anything direct about Vinnie P Protective deflective If theres an answer it lives with Shorty Mr NoNeck watched the door in the mirror Royce said The maitre d was like a TSA agent screening to see who was carrying what And the wall pics are cool Damon Affleck Theres one of the Rat Pack Quite a history Nothing on Vinnie P but did see Billy The Stick up there Eat drink and be merry Leah said smiling You had yourself quite a night At Stonegate Charlie let himself in The living room was a blanket nest two girls asleep on the couch the TV screen washed in a movies cool light Connie sat at the table with a spread of OSullivan campaign materials a pen tucked behind her ear She looked up and smiled They were great The candy shop adrenaline crash finally hit They debriefed me she added Theyre quite a team They have the Digby seal of approval As if on cue Digby launched off the couch and padded over nose working overtime He sniffed Charlies pant legs then backed off and tilted his head toward the door When the door stayed closed Digby hopped back up shoved himself between the girls and set his head on Willows leg eyes on the door like a sentry Connie slid into her coat and pulled out her phone I asked Willow to forward the photos she took at the candy store I told her were collecting for the crime board She flicked through and turned the screen Anything jump out Charlie looked Looked again Along the edge of a frame Willow had snapped of the locked storage room keypad orbs of light a heavy floortoceiling curtain slumped against the wall Parted five feet up the black shape of a gloved hand pinched the fabric Only the glove Nothing else Oh my Charlie said through his teeth Did you say anything Charlie Connie said warm but pointed I can read a room Not my place there But Arnie and Richards need to see this first thing Agree he said Thank you for your clear head sound judgment and for stepping in tonight It was a joy She yawned Watching them sleep is contagious She slid the campaign papers into a satchel and was out the door with a quiet click Leah dropped Richards at Riverside The wind off the water had teeth Gala tomorrow she said You need a ride No thanks he said Ill go with Willow and the Stonegate crew Breakfast there in the morning she said Willows staying with Charlie and Kelly tonight He took the laptop she handed across Ill run through the recording and push it to the UK See if they can pull background conversations kitchen door Bruno in and out that ten minutes max call Leah nodded Flag the timestamps He gave a small salute with the laptop and headed in collar up Before pulling out Leah texted Franco Be there in 10 Coopershill Irish Pub was halffull and warm a cozy vibe under dark wood No live music tonight soft Celtic acoustics drifted through the bar inviting close conversation Franco cradled an amber whiskey A glass of chilled white waited just off his elbow droplets clinging above the stem Youre back early Leah said sliding onto the stool You have a tracker on me too Francos smile had a devil in it Youd only find it if I wanted you to He nudged the white toward her slow and easy as she settled onto the hightop Howd it go Roads lead through The Beacon he said And the brothers arent amateurs They did a 360 on Hanover one smoking one texting Classic You watch my six Ill watch yours He shrugged Hard for Bruno to see over Dino though Leah snorted Whats the plan Breakfast at Stonegate he asked And tonight She tipped her head What do you have in mind Franco lifted two fingers The bartender nodded and pulled another round Leah studied him over the rim of her glass You ever think about what happens after cases like this When its over Franco held her gaze I think about a lot of things Good she said So do I The bartender set down fresh glasses Neither of them looked away Arnie texted Charlie Back Safe and sound Didnt solve it all in one night but the glove led to one more piece Charlie Good to hear We rattled a cage on our end as well Arnie Want me to come get Digby Charlie No hes snoozing with the girls Let them sleep Ill meet you before breakfast Ill get him out for a walk say 730 Bench by the footbridge Arnie Perfect Ill grab coffees We can compare notes before looping in the others Temperatures rising We need to be deliberate and careful Charlie You got that right Chapter 25 Through the Fog _Stonegate Footpath_ Charlie followed the footpath floppy beige fishing hat snug to his head careful to avoid puddles as Digby tugged him forward It was a murky midApril morningmisty rain mixing with icy pellets the ground not quite ready to turn Digby was in heaven nose low splashing through puddles inhaling every scent as if the grounds were waking from winter slumber Hear that Digby Charlie said as if the dog were hanging on his words The warblers are back beeebuzzbuzz Digby nose buried in a soggy pile of leaves offered no reply They rounded the bend the trimmed boxwood hedge guiding them toward the footbridge Ahead on a simple park bench Arnie sat with his trench coat cinched tight and his fedora angled against the drizzle The instant Digby spotted him he gave a mighty tug and Charlie let go of the leash rather than risk dislocating a shoulder Arnie held two takeaway coffeesthankfully liddedas Digby bounded onto the bench for his greeting Charlie hurried forward and rescued one of the cups before disaster Whoa boyits only been twentyfour hours I missed you too Arnie said laughing as he patted the wriggling dog Digbys nose went to work sniffing out the white Dunkin bag beside him Where are your manners Sit Digby The dog jumped down turned smartly and sat tail wagging like windshield wipers on high speed Good morning Arnie Feels like were on the set of _Casablanca_fog trench coats and hats Somebodys been missing you but he enjoyed the sleepover the girls too Morning Charlie Arnie pulled a pair of munchkins from the bag and rewarded Digby for his obedience Yuppea soup out here Charlie wiped a small puddle off the bench and sat You get any sleep last night Not much Arnie lifted the waterproof folder beside him the gesture halfsheepish halfdefensive Trying to sort through things Royce would say my Poirot grey cells are working overtime They drank in silence for a moment coffee warming their throats Arnie watched the footbridge through the mist You play bridge he asked Charlie chuckled As if you havent guessedIm more of a poker man Why Arnie tapped the folder Bridge keeps coming to mind Every cards already dealt you win by figuring out whos holding what and playing in partnership Charlie smiled In poker you play the person more than the cards Bluff read and the reveal comes late Arnie nodded handed Digby another munchkin and said Maybe were looking at a hybrid Both games on the table But we decide when the reveal happens Charlie tilted his head Ah_The Big Four_ One of Poirots early cases Though Id prefer to skip the part where Hastings gets kidnapped Arnie gave a questioning halfsmile If theres a web Arnie said then someones keeping the tension just tight enough Could be Charlie swirled his coffee watching the steam twist away Maybe its more like different dealers but only one pit boss keeping score Arnie took a sip of coffee then nodded I see where youre going Walk me through it Theres definite overlap between 94 and nowpoliticians business owners campaign staff family Charlie lifted two fingers in air quotes on _family_ Too many convenient intersections The key is to look at each players ultimate objective and motive Arnie didnt answer immediately Objective explains movement Motive explains risk Charlie nodded then rested his arm along the back of the bench turning slightly toward him What they all share is a silent understanding They know the others are out there but they focus on their partners Whoevers running the tables doesnt need to show their hand yetjust make sure the plays are happening as planned Arnie nodded slowly I agree And thats to our tactical advantage He studied Charlie a moment longer curiosity edging in Tell me somethinghow did you get so good at reading people I cant believe its just from poker My read is you care more about this investigation than youve let on Charlie chuckled and tugged the brim of his hat tighter against the drizzle Touche Id love to tell you I was a worldclass spy working undercover to save the world Truth is I worked at a hotelalways surrounded by people trying to get ahead of the days problems before the day got ahead of them Arnie gave a knowing smile and raised his coffee in salute And I was just a reporter at a paper Remember that you have to trust me line you used Lets peel down a few more layers Oh Im not withholding Charlie said Reading people just became a survival skillon the job and off I started at The Jefferson across from Boston Common Bell desk first then concierge It was the kind of place where nods and whispers moved more business than the reservations line Discretion was currency Senators CEOs a few whod rather not say where they came from One of the last luxury hotels to install cameras use keycards or stop taking cash for the exclusive suites In a place like that you either noticed everything or you didnt last long Arnie leaned down to pat Digby whod been listening like a small therapist then sat back Next layer Charlie set his cup on the bench arm and slid both hands into his coat pockets Somewhere along the way they started calling me _Columbo_always asking just one more thing when people thought the conversation was over It stuck Guess I asked too many questionsand didnt much care who I was asking A couple years in we hosted a gala for a foreign dignitary Middinner an expensive brooch disappeared I was working the floor that night and noticed things the police didntplatter lids swapped waiters changing jackets midservice small timing gaps between courses Turns out there were multiple players including one of our own staff Arnie checked his watch I can tell theres moreand weve still got time Charlie stiffened for a moment then exhaled through it By the time I had the keysDirector of Guest Servicesthey called me whenever something went missing Or someone did Right up until the night I missed the big one Blinded by my own hubris He rubbed his palms together as if to warm them We were hosting a wedding for a wealthy client The gift box at the front dais vanishedover a hundred grand in cash I was certain it was the father of the bride Alfonso Righetti All the tells were there along with the debt I pressed it hard made my case to managementand was wrong Alfonso was escorted out in handcuffs The cash turned up in my own office the next morning His reputation was ruined though he was cleared And so was mine He looked out toward the fog eyes unfocused I lost my job my marriage and five years I barely remember Guests that night included Sonny and Marion Lazzaro And I still remember seeing a blackgloved hand near that gift box Dont know whose Couldve been a waiter a guesthell couldve been nothing But when Willows photo came through last night that hand was the first thing I saw His voice roughened Your casethis casemaybe it helps me clear a few of my own demons Charlie slumped slightly drained This isnt about clearing demons Arnie said quietly Its about getting it right They sat in silence for a long moment Arnie set his cup aside tossed Digby one more munchkin and leaned forwardelbows on his knees chin resting on the backs of his steepled hands Youve heard the story of the Informant he began voice low and how I pushed him to give me the answers I wanted not the ones he had I needed a headline that would take down City Halland shine the light more on me than on the truth The Informant died that night on a Boston Harbor pier because I couldnt let it go He drew a slow breath released it and stood Digby assumed it was time to move and rose expectantly Arnie smiled faintly sat back down and began stroking the dog in a way Charlie hadnt seen beforegentle almost reverent When he spoke again his voice cracked That night that loss are the stories I tell But whats inside is the pain of knowing I lied to Claire I put my career ahead of her and of the life we planned I told her we had timethat I had everything under control After the Informant he stopped swallowed hard After Victor was killed I went ahead and published the story anyway I even won an award And then I drowned it all with a bottle Claire never gave up on me but the cracks were there She went back to work at the library while I lost my job and drank myself hollow Then came the accidenther disability the cancer We moved here for the peace for the care she needed Charlie looked away shaken That must have been hard on both of you Arnie didnt answer He wiped a tear from his cheek and pointed across the path to a tree etched with a heart and two initials A C She forgave me Loved me anyway When she neared the end she made me promise to live fullyand to listen to the people and the world around me He turned back to the bench and sat down again almost in surrender That listening table at the libraryits not just a place for people to talk Its how I keep listening to her He reached for Digbys leash giving him a soft pat And Digby here is my witness Digby instinctively placed his paws on the bench beside Arnie raised up and gently licked away the tears as Arnie reached around for a hug Arnie paused eyes on the fog And now I find out that through it allthrough all the painI still got it wrong He rose shoulders squared I wont let this go until I know the truth Charlie stood with him and laid an arm across his shoulder You didnt get it wrong because you didnt care he said quietly You got it wrong because some people work hard to make truth sound like noise This time we follow your lead He squeezed Arnies shoulder then cinched his coat ready for the walk to the dining hall At that moment Arnies phone buzzed He glanced down shook his head and showed the message to Charlie _Were all hereare you joining us Hercule Royce_ They tossed their cups and wrappers into the trash beside the bench and started toward the dining hall Theyd made it maybe ten paces when Charlie stopped One more thing Arnie turned back a faint smile breaking through Of course there is Charlie pulled out his phone Before we bring this to the others Charlie said theres something you should see He swiped to the image and held it out From Willows photos Arnie zoomed in slowlythe locked storage room the glowing keypad and there in the upper corner barely visible in shadow a blackgloved hand holding back the curtain Arnies jaw tightened Someone was watching The whole time Charlie confirmed Willow never saw him But he saw her He pocketed the phone Connie spotted this first and showed me Willow didnt notice I asked Connie not to say anything yet so you could decide how to handle Thanks Charlie Arnie said as he took one last sip of coffee and tossed the cup in the wire trash receptacle We dont mention this until we decide how to use it Im with you Charlie replied Digby whined softly sensing the shift Arnie reached down gave the dog a reassuring pat then straightened Lets not keep the group waiting Charlie fell in step beside him Poirot and Columbo Quite a pair Arnie almost smiled Dont tell Royce your nickname Hell say were perfect casting for _The Odd Couple_ Then added active partners not to be underestimated They walked on through the fog Chapter 26 The Reveal _Stonegate Shattuck Hall_ Arnie and Charlie rounded the corner toward Shattuck Hall just as Richards emerged from the mens room and reached for the wallmounted handsanitizer The hallway smelled faintly of lemon cleaner and burnt bacon Morning Richards Arnie said offering a nod Morning gents Richards replied vigorously rubbing his hands together as if the sanitizer were optional I appreciate the feelslikehome Scottish weather you arranged for today Glad we caught you before the briefing Arnie continued his tone somber Charlie fell in beside them Willow had a great time last night She and Kelly clicked right away Digby toothough I suspect he got more treats than I authorized Richards smiled pulling out his phone She texted me earlier with some very funny pictures The three of them crashed on the couch watching something about a lovable St Bernard _Beethoven_ Charlie confirmed They were on the third when I rolled in last night Richards chuckled pocketing his phone Then he noticed the shift in Arnies expressionsomething unspoken passing between him and Charlie Charlieshow Richards Arnies voice stayed low Im guessing Willow didnt text you this one Charlie pulled out his own phone He swiped to an image and held it out Richards took the phone zooming in slowly the locked storage room the keypadand there barely visible in the upper corner a blackgloved hand holding back the curtain His face went pale Someone was watching Yes Arnie said She never saw them But they definitely saw her Richards stiffened the phone shaking slightly in his hand Theres no way she can go to the gala tonight Too dangerous for her And for me if Allison finds out I let her go Arnie let him get it out waiting until the initial surge passed We understand your concern and you have every right to hold her back But Ive been reviewing all the pieces we have and I dont see a direct threat in the photo itself And based on what weve seen so far the gloves may be more friend than foe Charlie nodded Connie spotted it last night and shared it with me Arnie added Wanted you to see it first before the others Neither Willow nor Kelly noticed The galas a lawenforcement eventuniforms plainclothes the works Well ask Mendez to add discreet eyes on the girls if they go and Franco will stay mobile We just needed you to see this before we brief the groupso you can decide what youre comfortable with Richards handed the phone back rubbing his temple Shes having a great time so far I want her to enjoy the experiencedanger free He exhaled slowly Let me think on it and give Allison a call I need to be transparent with her on this Fair enough Arnie said They pushed through the double doors into Shattuck Hall The dining room hummed with its usual morning energyresidents shuffling between the buffet and their tables the clatter of silverware the low murmur of conversation Easter decorations still lingered in the windowspastel bunnies now joined by crayon drawings of trees and flowers Earth Day preparations already underway A Make Every Day Earth Day banner hung over the entrance Beneath it a Do Your PartRecycle Here sign sat above a pair of blueandgreen bins Digby tugged once then made a beeline for a patio table near the windows Willow and Kelly sat side by side Froot Loops and waffles spread before them phones out snapping selfies with a glazed donut propped between them like a prop Digby Willow squealed wrapping her arms around the dog as he pressed his nose into her lap tail wagging furiously Kelly laughed angling her phone for a better shot Richards watched them for a moment his expression softening despite himself Then he turned back to Arnie and Charlie Lets talk to Mendez first Then Ill make the call home and decide Understood Arnie said The Bridge Club had claimed the large corner table at the back of the hall far enough from the girls to talk freely Evelyn had rolled over the TV cart from the rec room with a monitor in place and Connie was connecting her laptop to it No time or room for an oldschool bulletin board this morning Royce sat at the far end with an elbow curled around his plate to camouflage the contents as best he could Phylis adjusted her walker beside her chair sporting a black hoodie that read Hug a Tree Not a Squirrel Mendez stood next to Franco as he worked Connies laptop plugging in a flash drive and verifying the monitor connection Talking to Franco and then looking up at Mendezwho was hovering with a takeaway coffeeConnie asked How was your debrief last night Franco kept typing Mendez sipped her coffee as if she hadnt heard With no answer forthcoming Connie continued No need to answer I can tell by that glowand the extra sugar in your coffee She gave a knowing smirk and turned back to the laptop Franco and Mendez both feigned _what are you talking about_ looks that softened with acknowledgment as they locked eyes and returned to the task at hand When Arnie Charlie and Richards approached Evelyn looked up pen poised over her clipboard Gentlemen Weve been waiting And based on the look on your faces I suspect the wait was worth it Everyone settled into their seats with eyes on the new arrivals Connie added Weve set up the laptop to connect with this monitor so everyone can see without crowding around Arnie set his coffee down and met her eyes Smartthinking ahead Well done We do have things to share Detective Mendez can we have a word first Mendez stood without question following the three of them a few steps away from the table Arnie kept his voice low We need to talk about security for tonight Specifically for Willow and Kelly Her eyes sharpened Why Something happen Charlie pulled out his phone and showed her the photo She zoomed in on the blackgloved hand her jaw tightening They were being watched she said flatly The whole time Charlie confirmed We dont think there was a direct threat but But you cant be sure Mendez finished She looked at Richards You want plainclothes on them tonight If she goes Richards said carefully I havent decided yet Mendez nodded Ill arrange it either way Two officers discreet They wont even know theyre there She glanced back toward the table And Ill have backup at the galauniforms plainclothes earpieces for anyone who wants one Its a lawenforcement event Security will be ramped up even further with OSullivan being there Francos mobile Arnie added On the Fury Ready to follow anyone who doesnt belong and leaves Good Mendez said She met Richardss eyes Your call But if she goes I promise shell be safe Richards looked across the patio at Willow who was now balancing the donut on Digbys nose while Kelly filmed The dogs tail wagged patient waiting for the release command I need to make a call and then Ill talk to her he said quietly as he stepped away phone already dialing Hi hon Everythings finesomething we need to chat about He drifted closer to the girls as he spoke Arnie Charlie and Mendez returned to the corner Evelyn tapped her pen against the clipboard Well Id like Charlie to start us off with a candyshop debrief Arnie looked to Charlie and nodded Keep it tight On point Charlie nodded in response and jumped in We believe its being used as a drop for questionable packagesthings you wouldnt want to send via UPS or FedEx if you follow While we were there we ran a diversion that gave Willow the opportunity to take a look in the back room Connie he added gesturing to the monitor can you pull up the photo Cups and plates clattered as everyone leaned in and a chorus of Oh my rose from those seeing it for the first time Evelyn was first to speak scribbling notes as if wielding knitting needles Do the girls know Are the police aware They need to stake out the back of Life Is Sweet and take them down Arnie stepped in No they didnt know he said as multiple people craned their necks toward the patio where DCI Richards now stood with the girls Richards is talking with them now and deciding whether to hold Willow back from going tonight She can stay with Charlie and Kelly if she doesnt goso there are options Mendez spoke next Theres not enough evidence to suggest anything criminal is taking place at this time Well have eyes on but its too early to go to a judge for a search or to place officers outside the premises We dont want a harassment suit and we dont want to tip them off Reviewing all the findings we have relative to blackglove sightings and reactions Arnie added my take is there are likely multiple people with black glovesand that theyre more likely allies than adversaries Charlie kept the cadence going Ive looked at the pictures a number of times and my read is the black glove wanted us to see their handand also wanted to be sure the packages and objects in the room were visible Its very possible the scene was staged for our benefit Just like Arnies visit to the _Beacon_ archives Were being nudged along Hansel and Gretel Royce asked Doesnt work Phylis said Hansel was laying the breadcrumbs to find their way back Try Gandalf leading Frodo Better fit Ah I dont remember Gandalf wearing black gloves Royce replied Phylis shook her head Royce pass the maple syrup Continue Arnie Arnie did just that Connie did you have a chance to type up the bullet list I slipped under your door this morning Can you bring them up one set at a time to help us stay on item Connie clicked a few keys on the laptop Absolutely Here you go Boston visit highlights Confirmed Vinnie P died at Luccios in 94 Sofia there Billy there Sofia rattled when we showed the glove Man at bar texting updates Bruno Dino to The Beacon afterward Arnie walked through the points and then turned to Franco Francocan you walk through the last item My pleasure Franco said flipping the screen to a surveillance video of their tailing Bruno and Dino The boys left the restaurant through the back alley Arnie and I followed as they walked a deliberate routeusing some bushleague countersurveillance techniques I might addto One Beacon Street Made it easy to follow without being seen Here they are entering the home offices of _The Beacon_ Richards returned phone pocketed and nodded in Arnies direction as Franco was giving his rundown He spoke up Whats your take on this Whats the connection with _The Beacon_ Still processing that Arnie replied I dont like to guess without more to go on But the glove seemed to trigger it Franco can you zoom in to show them Franco stilled the frame and then zoomed the image to show Bruno gripping the black glove practically squeezing the life out of it Reads like a message Charlie said And the gloves the topic Alright everyone should now be up to speed Arnie said We need to turn our attention to tonights gala First offif anyone is uncomfortable about going please stay home and know we completely understand While we believe there is limited risk with the security detail in place we dont want anyone there who doesnt want to bewhatever the reason Everyone at the table enthusiastically endorsed goingthe loudest of which was Phylis I didnt get a black sequin dress to be left back here to play bunco and farkle for leftover Happy Meal prizes Im pulling out the good teeth for a juicy steak They all chuckled Richards spoke Willow is coming tonight Everyone is on board and lets all rememberthis is a celebration The case is important but what this group did last year to bring down the Lazzaros is why were even going tonight Mendez jumped in I just want to echo that You should all fully enjoy this evening Know that I will do everything needed to be sure you are all in a safe space They spent the next half hour coordinating travel and signals Franco handed out keyfob GPS trackers to everyone as a safety net Connie and Evelyn broke down the equipment while the others finished off their breakfasts and discussed what they were going to wear Arnie walked over to the girls table and clipped Digby to his leash after one last round of hugs He slipped out while the others were having sidebar discussions and one last cup Back at his apartment he found it hard to stop pacing and settle down He walked over to the kitchen table where the 1994 Harborlight article stared back at him He picked up a Polaroid of Victor Then looked over to Claires portrait He sat at the table and did something he hadnt done in years He steepled his hands closed his eyes and bowed his head Chapter 27 St Christophers Burden _Luccios Back Room North End April 1994 That Fateful Day_ The back room at Luccios was half storeroom half break room A long rectangular tableits surface scarred by years of elbows dice and card gamessat surrounded by ten mismatched kitchen chairs Metal shelves lined the walls stacked with dented pots canned tomatoes and bins of every size There were no windowsjust a blackened door with a peephole leading to the alley To one side the walkin cooler to the other the swinging door to the kitchen Staff passed through constantly but for the drivers this was home basea place to eat play cards and wait for the next call On the back wall a crooked sign hung above the door YOU WANT TO SEE TOMORROW DONT DRINK It was meant for the drivers but everyone took the message to heart Play cards laugh eatbut if you got behind the wheel after a drink you were finished Late afternoon seven men in black suits crowded the table Four played cards one pored over the racing form and two ate from a familystyle platter of spaghetti and meatballs The air was a rich collision of oldworld sauce tobacco smoke stainless steel and raw meatan aroma that lived only in this room Victor Billy Lazzaros driver lifted his fork a meatball dripping red He dusted it with parmesan and studied it like fine art Heaven he said then ate it with the reverence of a man savoring caviar To his right sat a babyfaced kid in a suit two sizes too big doing his best to look like he belonged He copied Victors move stabbed at a meatball and lost it halfway to the plate when he tried to sprinkle cheese Victor chuckled and clapped him on the back Youll get the hang of it He tapped his fork against a water glass until the room quieted then stood Danny he said turning to the young man now driving for Vinnie Weve got something for you From his inside jacket pocket he withdrew a slim giftwrapped box and handed it over Danny Parsons peeled back the paper and opened the lid Inside lay a pair of black leather glovessoft polished top of the line They were meant for driving Not for leaving fingerprints You made it three months Victor announced The unspoken probation period Welcome to the brotherhoodour drivers family The room eruptedcheers backslaps a few mock toasts with water glasses The kitchen door swung open a foot A voice called through the clatter of pans Hey JoeyRoccos ready to roll Bring the car around front Heads up fellas looks like things are breaking up Card players settled their debts Chairs scraped Two men checked their reflections in the small mirrors by the shelf straightening ties and smoothing hair You never knew where the next stop would beonly that you had to look sharp when you got there Victor caught Danny by the sleeve before he could stand Hold up He reached into his jacket again and produced a smaller box Got you something extra Vic you didnt have to I know I wanted to Inside was a gold chain with a St Christopher medal Victor pressed his hand gently over Dannys to keep him from lifting it for show The warmth of that touch said more than words If you run into any trouble Victor said quietly you come to me first You hear Danny nodded Thanks Victor He squeezed the box then placed his hand over Victors No ones ever done that for me before Why are you going out of your way Victor smiled faintly Im passing it on You remind me of someonea scrawny kid from Southie trying to scrape enough together to take care of his ma I was fifteen running numbers being a lookout on my bike passing messageswhatever kept us afloat There was another kid Sonny I used to hang with One day we were down at Carson Beach when three guys in hoodies came at him with bats Said they had a message for Billy They told me to scramno beef with me He paused and tightened his face Then one of them caught Sonny hard in the legs He went down screaming The others started taking turns working him over I didnt thinkjust charged in pulled him up Dont know where the strength came from but I got his arms around my neck and deadlifted him onto the back of my bike Pedaled like hell every muscle burning until we made it back to Luccios Only then did I see how bad it washis legs were wrecked Months of rehab and a limp that never went away That was the day everything changed Billy never forgot that day Danny could see in Victors eyes that he hadnt forgotten it either Victor recounted the rest of the saga in a manner that told Danny hed said these words before Billy started looking out for me Made sure Ma had what she needed We never went hungry again even got a better place When I got my license Billy had me ride along with the other drivers Twenty years later here I amstill behind the wheel for him I owe that man everything Danny looked down at the St Christopher medal holding it in his palm like treasure Victor exhaled his eyes softening Its too bad though SonnyBillys only boyhad to choose between him and his mother Marion She blamed Billy for everything and never let him forget it Sonnys civil with his old man but his hearts with her He drifted off a moment lost in the thought then snapped back Remember kidthese guys are brothers he said sweeping a hand around the room I trust them with my life You should too Out front is the family Back herehe tapped the table then his chest twiceis the brotherhood He smiled And from now onits Vic Danny nodded not sure what to say A voice bellowed through the kitchen door Danny Get on your horseVinnies heading out The rest of you it wont be long Danny wiped his face with a napkin checking for stray sauce Victor reached into his jacket side pocket for one last item Here he said producing a small blackandblue gum pack and sliding it into Dannys breast pocket Black Jack Our drivers secret weaponkills garlic covers nerves Danny grinned tapping the pack Oldschool The best kind Victor said smiling faintlyas if looking into a thirtyyearold mirror He rested a hand on the back of Dannys head and kissed his cheek Remember what I told you This is a brotherhood May St Christopher keep you safe Danny pushed through the door into the alleyunaware that along with the medal around his neck something else had just been passed into his keeping At 630 pm Victor got the word Billy was ready to go Same as every nightdinner alone at his corner table followed by the drive He pulled the Cadillac around front doubleparked and stepped out into the evening chill The April air carried salt from the harbor and a faint echo of jazz from inside Circling the car he opened the rear passenger door just as Billy emerged from Luccios with Shorty looming at his shoulder Victor held the door but Shorty beat him to itslamming it shut with unnecessary force Victor circled back to the drivers seat slid behind the wheel and started the engine He never asked where they were going Not when Shorty was in the car He eased into the slow lane along Commercial Street following the usual stall route while waiting for directions The conversation in the back unfolded as if he werent there at all Billy I want that money returned Shorty Its a hundred grand It covers delinquent receiptssaves us enforcement overhead Billy I dont care Make it happen We got no beef with Righetti Thats a line we dont cross Wedding gifts That kind of crap sets us back Clean it up Shorty How Billy Youre a smart guy Figure it out Billy gave a quick glanceconversation over Then after a beat Vic City Hall Yes sir The car fell silent except for the rhythmic swish of the wipers cutting through fog and the snapcrunch of Shortys gum The April mist turned the windshield into glassy gray even the citys lights seemed muted holding their breath At City Hall Victor pulled to the curb Instinct told him to get out and open the door but one look in the rearview mirror stopped him cold Billys eyes met his steady commanding _Stay put_ Billy turned to Shorty Give my best to Sandra he said as the door slammed shut That faint knowing smile lingered as Shorty walked off toward the building Early night tonight Victor Billy said You know where to drop me They rode the next few minutes in silence fog thick as smoke around the headlights Then Billy spoke again voice low Vic any of the drivers talk about Shorty You hear anything about that Jefferson heist Victor shook his head No sir And this business at City Hall Billy stared out the window speaking half to himself Somethings not right Might need a forensic accountant Not sure whos more cluelessMayor Campbell or me They pulled up to Harbor Towers Billy caught Victors gaze in the mirrorsteelgray eyes calm but weighted Victor climbed out circled the car and opened the door as hed done a thousand times Usual time tomorrow Billy shook his head Early start Seven sharp Long drive up 95 Figure well be gone the day Sure thing boss Ill pick up pastries and juice for the road Billy reached out his hand firm on Victors arm then lifted it to his face You be careful he said eyes glassy with something Victor couldnt name Then he turned and disappeared through the lobby doors As Victor closed the door something caught his eyea white envelope on the rear seat He knew better than to hesitate He pocketed it inside his jacket and pulled away from the curb Five minutes later he eased into the Seaport parking lot where the Lazzaro fleet slept overnight He did his usual interior sweep locked up and crossed to the bank of payphones at the corner Dropping a quarter into the slot he dialed the number from memory The Beacon switchboard how may I direct your call Extension 2137 Victor said Three rings later Arnie Price Victor unfolded the papers inside the envelope the phone cradled between shoulder and ear Got it Price he said Exactly what you asked forjust not where you thought it would be This blows it wide open Arnies voice sharpened Can you meet at the Seaport pier Is it safe See you in thirty Victor replied and hung up Victor took the long way to the pier From the Seaport lot he doubled back twice cutting through side streets and keeping to the shadows every few blocks pausing just long enough to check his six Old habits The kind that kept a man alive As he neared the harbor the April fog thickened swallowing the streetlights and softening the world to gray He turned up his collar and pressed on the damp working its way through his coat The gulls were quiet Even the city seemed to be holding its breath He reached the pier a few minutes early and slipped through the side door of the Seaport Fishery The hinges complained in a long hollow creak that echoed through the warehouse Inside the air was coldersalt diesel and the faint tang of fish that never quite left the walls Victor struck a match and lit a cigarette the flame briefly illuminating the tension in his face He took one long drag exhaled and waited Footsteps Slow deliberate A figure in a trench coat emerged from behind a stack of crates You just couldnt leave well enough alone the voice saidlow steady Too calm Victors hand twitched toward his pocket then stopped Me Youve got no idea what youve walked into You should be on your way to Logan not standing here Youre about to become part of the cleanup You got that right The gun came up fitted with a silencer Show your hands Now toss me the recordernice and easy Victors jaw tightened What recorder The one you use for every meeting with Price Victor blinked stunned How Shut up Toss it over He unclipped the small Walkman from his belt and slid it across the floor The figure stooped opened the compartment and pulled the cassette free The Walkman hit the concrete with a sharp crack Looks like Billys gonna need a new driver the voice said Victors eyes widened No Two soft pops Muffled Final The figure stepped forward crouched beside the body and slipped a gloved hand into Victors jacket pocket The envelope came out clean Another slid in to replace it The latex crinkled as the killer stood tucking the retrieved envelope inside the trench coat before fading back into the fog Minutes later the echo of running footsteps broke the silence Arnie Price burst through the same side door the air heavy with gunpowder and salt Victor he called scanning wildly Then he saw himon his back near the crates the cigarette still smoldering beside his hand Arnie knelt pressed two fingers to Victors throat and found nothing Red pooled beneath his palm Voices outsidepolice shouts the wail of a siren closing in Instinct took over He slipped his hand into Victors coat felt paper and drew out the bloodstreaked envelope He tucked it inside his own jacket just as the door burst open behind him Flashlights Radios Police Hands where we can see them Arnie froze eyes on Victors lifeless face and whispered barely audible over sirens and raised voices What have I done Chapter 28 Bridge Mates Here We Go _Stonegate_ Arnie stood before the hallway mirror coaxing his bow tie into something presentable He shook out his hands flexed the stiff fingersarthritis had been nipping lately and he preferred stubbornness to pills It wasnt an excuse not to get it right Over his shoulder Claires portrait on the breakfront caught the light I know I know he said glancing toward her teasing smile Dont overtightenand fluff it up a little Not just the bow You always knew what to say Claire From the bookcase speakers Tom Jones crooned Shes a Lady Arnie closed his eyes raised one arm to shoulder height the other at the waist of an invisible partner and began to dancean image that would shock anyone who thought they knew him Shes all youd ever want got style got grace filled the room Digby safely out of range on his dog bed put both paws over his head like a man in a foxhole Then the lineshe can take what I dish out and thats not easycut through like a dart Arnie stopped He looked at Claires photo the apology formed on his lips before he whispered it Im sorry He blinked himself back to the present shrugged into his tux jacket and slid the midnightblue pocket square Connie had dropped off into his breast pocket One last look in the mirror Game face At the door he crouched to scratch Digby under the chinclose enough for affection not close enough for dog hair Hold the fort Sorry you cant come Ill bring you a little something He locked up as Engelbert Humperdincks Quando Quando Quando took over the speakers Digby hopped onto the couch kneaded the pillows into a nest and settled ininstant earplugs for the evening playlist Knockknock Connie called nudging open Evelyns door Ev you here Come in Evelyn answered from the bedroom Kettles hothelp yourself Ill be right out Perfectsorry Im early Didnt know what to do with myself Connie said voice bright as sunlight She set her clutch on the counter and surveyed the regiment of silver tea tinsalphabetized naturally Looseleaf for Evelyn always She chose rooibos found the infuser and measured leaves with the spoonno crosscontamination on her watch A mug waited by the kettle Librarians Make Good Readers Connie smiled dropped in the infuser and poured Papers lay further down the counter She reached for the top sheet just as Evelyn stepped in OSullivan donor list Evelyn said Find anything Connie kept scanning then looked upand stopped Wow You look fantastic I dont think Ive ever seen you in a dress That gray with the beige scarfbrings out your eyes Thank you Evelyn smoothed the skirt selfconscious but pleased Urban Exchange Keene Its been ages A beat And no nothing useful yet You shouldve told me Id have played personal shopper Connie dear solo was intentional A small smile We see the world differently You want to be seenand you look fabulous A gesture up and down Connies ensemble I prefer to blend People come to a library for the books not the librarian Fair Connie said genuinely For what its worth youre elevating gray and beige tonight She lifted the infuser from her mug and set it in the sink with Evelyns nod Why so early Evelyn asked We have at least thirty minutes before we meet the others Its my wiring Connie said Big night jitters Usually Im fussing over someonemy plusone a boutonniere a crooked tie I offered Arnie he refused We gave our plusones to Charlie and Kelly so here I am extra hands and nowhere to put them Evelyn studied her compassionate With all that energymay I ask why you never had children Who said I never did Evelyn froze teacup halfway to her lips II assumed Youve never mentioned any Connie lifted her mug blew across the top hesitated Time enough before they had to leave I had a son she said softly Joshua Eight years old Brain tumor The color drained from Evelyns face Im so sorry I had no idea Thank you Connie said eyes brightening Not a day goes by that I dont think of him Maybe thats why I move so fast If I keep going the grief cant catch me You dont have to talk about it I want towith you A small lopsided smile Youve been softer lately It helps She sniffed then tried to lighten it Maybe itll even improve our bridge partnership I imagine it affected things with Harold Connie nodded We got through treatment and the aftermath together tried for another child didnt happen After that we driftedseparate currents same river Were still close we just cant stay in the same eddy too long without the grief pulling us under Moving on meant moving apart And the road led me here She reached for Evelyns hand To people I call true friends Evelyn gripped back and huffed a wet little laugh Weve got to stop doing this Evelyn said My heart cant take it She swiped at her eyes and stood All right Time to celebrateand learn something while were at it Hear hear Connie said raising her mug She set it down Leave it Ill deal with it later Evelyn said fetching her wrap They stepped out together ready for the night Royce in his newly minted Boston evening getup and Phylis in black sequins that haloed her neckline and shoulders made their way through the Stonegate lobby Watch your step she warned No speed This hems ambitious and I dont need a face plant Royce hovered like a Ken doll on a hinge trying to help without tangling with the walker I feel like Uncle Fester escorting Morticiathough you look smashing Cut the crap Im an old lady in black And dont sell yourself short Fester never had your hair You always know how to build a guy up he laughed hustling ahead to open the door wide Parked outside a reborn VW van The cheerful orange had been replaced with glossy black The side slider stood open Beside it Lewisblack suit skinny tie sunglasses discreet earpiecelooked every inch the event handler Royces eyes lit Way cool Better than Dragnet Maybe even Blues Brothers No sidearm Lewis didnt break character DeAtonizer rides up front Youre our last pickup Connie and Evelyn are aboardwe roll when youre settled He guided Phylis to a low metal lift that rose flush with the floor when he flicked a switch She rode up regally and was ushered inside New feature Lewis said retracting the platform with another button Expanding our customer base Ill leave you five stars Phylis shot back Royce climbed in and groaned with delight Along the rear a bank of monitors and a shallow counter studded with keyboards trackballs toggles two occupied swivel stools Franco rotated to greet themtuxed scruffy Bond with a weekends stubble Thought youd appreciate the upgrade Royce Trojan Horse courtesy of Lewis and Clark He gestured at the equipment Please no bodily fluids At the console sat a GenZ kid with a sandy mop and a tiedye tee under a cutoff black hoodie Oversized headphones sealed him off his shoulders hunched and fingers skated screens dancing with maps and telemetry This is Chip Franco said lifting one headphone cup Our eyes and ears tonight Ill be in the room hell be in the van Chip gave a quick onefinger salute without looking back and dove into his keyboard again Bench seats lined each side of the van Connie and Evelyn were buckled on one trading tolerant looks at Royces awe Opposite Royce and Phylis clicked in Franco distributed small fobs Everyone gets a tracker Chip will confirm theyre live en route to Grappone The button signals distress Connie tapped hers Roycethis does not include menu emergencies Were talking danger to self Think flare gun not door dash Correct Franco said standing Where are you going Evelyn asked Meeting the others there Leah and Richards prefer no visible connection between me and this vehicle Youll have friendly eyes everywhere Enjoy the nightjust keep the trackers on you Phylis eyed the rig Where are the parachutes Looks like the next step is skydiving Franco already on the pavement smiled Ill catch you He slid the door shut and doubletapped the panel Lewis eased the van into gear and pulled away Onward to the Grappone Center Chapter 29 Storm Front _Candidate Arrives_ Sandra looked out the window as the golden dome of the New Hampshire State House caught the early evening light glistening above the trees Their motorcade was moments from the Grappone Center She drew in a slow breathtime for the lockerroom talk OSullivan sat beside her head down scrolling through messages Sandra pressed a hand to his forearm firm enough to make him look up RememberArnie Price will bait you with the past she said Keep it to the here and now Congratulate him stroke the ego if you must but pivot to the futureAmericas lost potential the renewal youll lead Got it Her expression hardened into her _I mean it_ look Youre playing with fire if you go offscript You dont have the cleanup crew the President does Twelve other candidates have already declared their intentthe press can smell blood Theyre hungry for roadkill OSullivans smile was easy practiced Please Sandra He gave a small shake of his head and returned to his phone unbothered Childs play Politics 101 You worry too much After everything weve been through you should know better Then his thumbs stilled He turned toward her eyes narrowing Something else bothering you The earpiece in the front seat crackled All clear Pull in for dropoff Danny said He caught their eyes in the mirror Green light Front entrance Pressfree zone Sandra leaned in smoothing OSullivans tie Her voice dropped to a whisper Were so close Dont let the past suck you in He met her with mock innocence eyes wide and boyish She gave him a look that said _What am I going to do with you_but didnt return the warmth The black limo swung off Commercial Street and was waved through to the entrance A blacksuited security agent opened the rear door OSullivan emerged first phone pocketed hand raised in easy waves and thumbsup gestures Sandra followed burdened with her campaign binder handbag and tablet baglooking more like a Sherpa heading up Everest than a trusted advisor to a presidential candidate Weve got the suite ready she said falling into step beside him Hair makeup and staging in the adjoining room Interviews in fortyfive minutesbefore the awards ceremony begins Youll have time to run through your remarks again Still smiling and waving to the small crowd behind a temporary barrier he replied without looking at her You get me there Ill handle the rest The sliding glass doors swallowed them and the limo eased forward toward the valet lot Danny lifted a gloved hand in a casual greeting to the lot attendant who waved him through He backed into the prearranged space shifted into park and fished a stick of Black Jack gum from his pocket The sharp scent of licorice filled the car as he unwrapped it chewed once and pulled out his phone Group chat _Arrived SO in the building Keep me updated_ He chewed hard jaw working like he meant to wring every drop of flavor out of it Replies pinged in quick succession Danny thumbed back a single line _Understood Eye on the prize Notify of any unexpected disruption_ He dropped the phone on the dash unwrapped another stick of gum and settled in He kept one hand on the wheel even parkedever ready Danny dipped his driving cap down to give the impression he was napping but his eyes were laser focused on his phone tracking the stream of encrypted messages He didnt see the movement outsidedidnt even hear ituntil a sharp rap of knuckles struck the side window He jolted looking up to find an older man peering in sunken eyes forestgreen parka Scottish cap pulled low ExMayor Campbell Danny thumbed the window switch The soft _brrr_ of glass sliding down broke the silence Where the hell did you come from And why are you here he asked Campbell hunched closer breath fogging the air Got your message Talked with Billy like you asked He pulled one hand from his pocket and tossed a black glove into Dannys lap Damn I dont miss this New England cold Give me Florida any day He rocked on his heels AnywayBilly wanted you to have that and know Victors death hit him hard He wants whoever did it to pay same as you Danny stared at the glove gripping it as if wringing the truth from it You expect me to buy that Coming from you No proofand your track record Campbells expression didnt waver Believe what you want Ive got shadows sure Guilty of arrogance corruptionfine But Victors death Not me I was too busy being in love with myself I was in bed with Billy on some things but not those kickbacks Billy got blindsided same as I did Get out of here Danny snapped You disgust me He flicked the switch the window began to rise Campbell slapped both hands against the glass halting it halfway Billy said to pass something on he said voice low This campaign Its family business for Sandra Dannys hand paused on the switch Then without a word he sent the window gliding up Campbell stepped back palms lifted in mock surrender and disappeared the way hed come The bushes rustled once then stilled Like hed never been there at all Evening dusk had given way to full dark The parking lot lights had flickered on stretching new shadows across the asphaltones that hadnt been there ten minutes earlier He unwrapped another stick of Black Jack gum and chewed slowly working the tension from his jaw Danny leaned over and opened the glove box again His fingers brushed the worn leather Im doing what I can on this end he murmured Appreciate any help you can send my way Miss you Vic He closed the compartment softly and reached beneath his collar rubbing the small St Christopher medal tucked theremaking sure it was still with him The entry bells of the candyshop chimed pulling Cindys eyes from her phone She lifted her wellpracticed smileuntil she saw whod come in The Caprini boys Dino headed straight for the candy racks while Bruno turned the _Open_ sign to _Closed_ and twisted the blinds shut slicing the afternoon light into dull gray stripes Bruno strolled to the counter popped the lid off a canister of colored jawbreakers and fished one out Love these he said dropping it into his mouth Worth the trip every time Beside him Dino rummaged through the Airheads display You outta blueberry again Cindys hands trembled as she reached beneath the counter and drew out a box about the size of a shoeboxan _OSullivan in 28_ bumper sticker slapped across the top She slid it toward Bruno like it was burning her palms Brunos grin didnt reach his eyes You dont want to know whats inside I dont want to know and I dont care she said voice unsteady All I care about is not seeing you guys anymore Dino leaned on the counter the wood creaking under his weight You know what you owe Keep cooperating and this shop stays sweet When does this end she whispered Bruno tucked the box into a plain carry bag smoothing the sides Not our call Well check with the bookkeeper see where the ledger stands He grabbed a Snickers from the display and pointed at the bag with it Every little bit helps Cindy folded her arms tight across her chest as if holding herself together I cant keep living like this Id rather shut this place down than feel like gum on the bottom of your shoes Bruno paused half a smile curling back I promise he said hoisting the bag It wont be that much longer Hang in there kid This place is too nice to waste He took a bite of the candy bar chewed and added Besideslots of nutrition packed in here He nodded toward Dino and they left through the back door the bells giving a faint mocking jingle as it shut behind them Cindy stood alone in the silence surrounded by the wrappers of promisesbright colors dulled by fear The Suburban High Country hummed along Route 202 its charcoal cabin washed in soft sunset orange from the dashboard screens The tinted windows let in just enough light to suggest daylight hadnt surrendered yet while darkening clouds stacked ahead like a storm assembling itself Every seat was occupied Detective Mendez drove with quiet precisioneyes flicking from mirror to mirror hands loose on the wheel alert but unhurried Franco sat beside her glove box open cycling through tech devices while the miles slipped past Richards was in the back row like the odd man out scrolling his phone while Willow and Kelly marveled at their highend transport Kelly traced the edge of the touchscreen like discovered treasure Willow leaned forward wideeyed Heated cup holders she gasped Youve got to be kidding me In the middle row Arnie sat with a notebook balanced against his knee scribbling preinterview notes in the beam of the overhead light Charlie in the seat beside him peeked without shame I hope you dont mind my nosy eyes Charlie said pointing at the top of the page Whats your plan of attack Go in hard Dont let him get his footing Arnie replied brow lifted I know you have a lot of experience and past success This guy Hes a politician The kind that used to bald face lie to me with a smile back in the day Arnie exhaled amused Im listening I found if I came at them head on theyd deny deny deny But if I seemed a little uncertain maybe even disheveled Theyd underestimate me Thats when theyd slip Lower their defenses Ah Columbos superpower Arnie said Theyd want to show me how smart they are that theyd say some of the most damning things Just a thought Charlie watched smiling with his eyes Arnie returned his focus to the notebook Scribbled a few notes Scratched out a couple of lines Too bad I cant get you in the room with me Id love your read on whether anything actually lands But I agreed to mano a mano I just want answers Charlie held his gazesteady warm Arnie let the tension leave his shoulders I know he said quietly Theyll come And not all at once From the front seat Franco twisted around holding out a small earbud and a palmsized black device with a short wire wound in a clip Arnie shifted his notebook aside What is this A thermal echo unit TE30 Franco said Thirtymeter range It picks up warm bodies active devices anything that doesnt belong Keep it on you Chip will be monitoring from the van Why me Because youre the one they least expect to be carrying it Franco said Mr FlipPhonefrom90s He tapped the earbud This lets us hear youand everything around you Chip wants you to remember the less you say the more we hear Arnie fit the bud into his left ear So noted The blinker clicked green as large drops began hammering the windshield the storm overtaking them as Mendez guided the SUV off exit 16 Richards leaned forward to study the sky Serious front moving in Once we unload stick closevisibility may tank quickly Willow snorted in Kellys direction Thats dad speak Stick close dont wander off Mendez turned onto Commercial Street Securitys in position Were covered Its going to be a funshe glanced at Richardsand safe night Guaranteed Franco arched a brow at her confidence Bold I like it Just remember why were here she murmured Dont let your eyes wander You know how to hurt a guy he said feigning injury He turned to meet Mendezs eyes and smiled How could they As if on cue the rain intensified Mendez eased into the Grappone Center parking area searching for a spot that offered cover concealment and line of sighther version of a hunters blind Charlie leaned forward Its no secret were with you tonight How about a closer drop so we arent drowned rats before the festivities Fair she said making a tight turn toward the loading zone Franco clipped a microlapel pin to his jacket Testing onetwo Who was the Spaceman Arnie tucked his notebook inside his jacket Bill Lee Red Sox ace Chip here came a voice in Arnies ear Activating TE30 for thermal check Reading seven heartbeats and a V8 engine Give me your favorite snack as the confirmation code word if something feels off Arnie pausedthen felt Willow lean toward his ear Fritos she whispered Digbys absolute favorite Fritos it is Chip said All systems go Less you talk more I hear Arnie pushed open the door umbrella ready Roger Im good at that The wind shoved at the umbrellas offering stiff resistance Through the opening he spotted the Stonegate contingent huddled under the canopy beside the VW vanEvelyn adjusting her wrap Connie gesturing broadly Royce steadying Phyliss walker as Lewis shielded them with a massive umbrella against the sideways rain Theres our team Charlie said umbrella in hand ready to follow The rain hammered the pavement like pellets racing toward the storm drain in sheets Richards pulled on his galoshes and lifted the hatch Girlshoods up Move Willow and Kelly bolted shrieking when the rain hit them sprinting toward the van with their phones overhead like makeshift shieldsignoring the oversized umbrella Richards tried to deploy So much for sticking close he muttered to himself Richards caught up with the girls under the canopy water dripping from his coat Willow was already showing Evelyn something on her phoneprobably the photo of them running through the rain Kelly had claimed Phyliss walker basket as a temporary seat legs dangling Were all accounted for Richards said glancing back as Arnie Franco and Charlie hurried through the rain toward them Franco slowed pretending to button his jacket while his eyes swept the lobby beyond the glass doors Through the lobby window Arnie saw herSandra Reilly standing just inside arms folded watching the storm Waiting When their eyes met across the distance she straightened smoothed her jacket and began moving toward the doors Franco leaned close You see her Yeah Arnie said quietly I see her Charlie came up beside him Good luck Ill be listening Let me know real time if you pick up on anything Will do A bright lance of lightning tore across the sky illuminating the faade of the Grappone Center in an electric flash Thunder cracked like a warning shot And in the far distance a band of sunset glowed beneath the stormturbulence giving way to something else Arnie took a deep breath forced a smile and pressed forward Chapter 30 Into the Fray _Grappone Conference Center Adjoining Courtyard Hotel_ Group pic everyone Lets grab one with the gala sign in the background Connie called herding them like damp semiwilling cats Arnies SUV crew had just ducked under the canopy Willow and Kelly shaking off the rain like wet dogs Phylis was already halfway to the front doors with Royce escorting her Im not stopping she barked over her shoulder Connie pivoted Plan B She shoved her phone into Lewiss hand still posted by the VW van like a Secret Service sentry Herejust get as many as you can with all of us in them She waved the others back toward the entrance There were mild protests except from the girls who seemed permanently in motion Smile everyone Lewis shouted over the drumming rain He clicked rapidfire handed the phone back and returned to his post Connie scrolled as they moved inside a blur of quirky smiles eye rolls midblink faces and the sequined back of one dress with an EAT MY DUST tattoo curling along the neckline They turned toward Phylis and followed her through the lobby doors Just inside stood Sandra Reilly a stiff smile and trace of a cigarette on her breath Beside her a nattily dressed event host waited with arms spread and all the warmth of a funeral director Welcome everyone Sandra chimed in before the doors had fully shut Were on a bit of a clockthe gala opening ceremony begins in she checked her watch fortyseven minutes Mr Prices interview with Senator OSullivan needs to happen before then She gestured toward the ballroom doors All of youexcept you Mr Priceplease follow Leonard Youre honored guests and have excellent seats near the podium Leonard lifted his hands and moved them as if guiding planes to a gate ushering the group toward the ballroom Sandra stepped straight for Arnie hand extended Thank you for doing this Mr Price Arnie he said Pleasecall me Arnie Of course Arnie This waywere set up in one of the courtyard suites down the hall Senator OSullivan is already waiting Sandra said guiding him toward the annex corridor Before she could pull him away Connie stepped forward grinning ear to ear Sandra you look _stunning_ tonight Those amethyst earringsabsolutely perfect I was hoping maybe we could Sandra cut her off with a warm but clipped smile Thank you Truly But were on a clock Mr Price needs to be in place She touched Connies sleevesoft practicedLets catch up at the reception And with that she pivoted Arnie by the elbow and steered him down the opposite corridor Connie stood frozen mouth ajar as Richards came to her side Thats a woman on a mission he murmured May I escort you in Im feeling a bit like a third wheel tonight Connie snapped out of her daze slipped her arm through his and smiled Id like that They fell into step behind the group As they reached the ballroom doors Connie leaned in conspiratorially Ill keep an eye on Willow and Kelly so you can relax your parental radar Enjoy the night a little Richards covered her hand with his own Thank you Pretty sure that radar never shuts off but the extra set of eyes helps At the registration tablebeneath a banner reading Celebrating Our NH HeroesLeonard stood with his practiced host smile Welcome everyone he began voice full of pomp We are honored to But Phylis had already peeled off walker skidding sluggishly over the carpet as she made her escape Royce hurried alongside the tennis balls squeaking in protest Phyl where you headed Coat check she barked I can take it he offered Im not feeble I can handle this Royce nodded and fell into step behind herclose enough to catch her if she stumbled far enough not to offend The plush carpet gave way to smooth granite speeding her forward in a slidestep rhythm They reached coat check where a purplehaired teen hunched behind the counter hypnotized by his phone Phylis shrugged off her coat and tossed it onto the counter Check this The teen jolted upright Uhfive bucks Royce slapped a Lincoln down The kid vanished into the racks Royce waited until they were alone So when did you know About the cancer Phylis blew out a breath When Agnes Fletcher beat me in this years 85andover armwrestling tournament Ive _never_ lost to that woman Never That lit a fuse She rolled up her sleeve and flexed one wiry bicep as if presenting Exhibit A Started with protein shakes and muscle milk to prep for the rematch Instead Lost weight Lost muscle She tapped her temple Thats when I knew something was off Royce nodded shoulders soft face gentle Then Shirley Summers told me I looked yellow after water aerobics Her Reginald died five years back and _they_ didnt notice his skin changingbut others did So I mentioned it to my GP Bloodwork came back ugly Bilirubin through the roof One scan led to another They said something was blocking a duct Then they said the word pancreas After that Oncologist End of story Im so sorry Phylis She snapped her head toward him eyes sharp Im not looking for pity He swallowed Why tell me She leaned in voice low and unwavering Because Ive decided not to seek treatment Because Im not going to spend my last months sick for the sake of a few extra weeks Im not giving up Im choosing how to live And you She jabbed a finger into his chest You wont try to save me Youll respect my wishes _And_her eyes hardenedyou wont tell a soul Royces eyes watered despite himself He cleared his throat voice gravel Not a word Sorry about that the teen said returning with a ticket Your coat needed a special hanger Enjoy the evening He resumed scrolling Royce pocketed the ticket and looked at Phylis with something like devotion She returned the look softened but resolute then nodded toward the ballroom where Connie waved them over lanyards in hand Evelyn and Charlie ended up side by side Charlie pulled out a chair with unexpected formality May I have the pleasure of sitting beside you this evening he asked Evelyn blinked a small smile forming Thank you She sat scanning the room with quick assessing glances Looking for someone Charlie teased Not really she said Just getting a lay of the land Big events arent my favorite You and me both Charlie admitted Reminds me too much of my days at The Jefferson Working the room watching staff anticipating disasters Hard to enjoy anything Evelyn nodded Same at the library Special events were chaosbooks everywhere kids running wild Too much stress for my taste Franco approached crouching beside Charlie out of Evelyns earshot Here he whispered offering a small earbud Twoway link Youll be able to hear the interview Tap twice to mute or unmute Charlie slipped it in Arnie can you hear me A moment of hallway echo then Arnies calm voice Thank you again Sandra for coordinating this interview I know a lot of folks will want to clearly hear what Senator OSullivan has to say on a wide range of topics Charlie grinned Ill try not to backseat drive Go get em Sandra led Arnie through a series of earthtone corridors her heels clicking faster with each turn The atrium they crossed resembled a miniature conservatorygreenery spilling from raised planters metal statues posed in midstride and a waterfall bubbling loudly enough to drown out the hiss of rain against the skylights Sandra never slowed Arnie lengthened his stride to keep pace Suite 103an executive meeting room attached to the business wingsat just off the main hotel lobby discreet and easily accessible Sandra placed a hand on the door then turned to him with a matteroffact edge Well be videorecording the session For campaign content and archival purposes Arnie stopped short That wasnt part of the arrangement Sandra lifted one shoulder in a dismissive halfshrug It was arranged between Cahill and The Beacon They signed off Sounds like they forgot to loop you in Now you know In Arnies ear Charlies calm voice drifted through _Ask for the raw file No edits Say you want it routed to Cahill_ Arnie inhaled once steady Fine Ill need the final video file routed directly to Sean Cahill No edits Sandra raised her keycard A green light flashed Of course she said twisting the handle and ushering him inside The room was a popup television studio dressed like a hotel suite Arnie scanned it with the eye of someone who had set up more than a few interviews himself Looks like were staging a _60 Minutes_ piece he murmuredpartly to Charlie partly to himself Facing chairs Greenscreen backdrop Tripod and shotgun mic Clipons ready to go Andhis gaze flicked to a pyramid of shoeboxes in the rear with a _Citizens in Action_ banner hung above and _OSullivan in 28_ posters strategically positioneda whole lot of campaign swag behind the seat labeled Price for subliminal messaging Classy Sandra moved toward the adjoining door Ill bring the Senator in As it clicked shut behind her Arnie noticed the name placards taped to the chairs He draped his trench over the chair labeled Senator and ignored the placard marked Price Left side Hed sat on the left through a hundred interviewsmuscle memory He flipped open his notebook to the prepared pages pencil tapping the margin Under his breath in case the camera was recording he muttered for Charlies benefit Staging feels off for newspaper sit down Charlies voice responded immediately _Heard that More like a campaign promo Dont let it get in your head Theyve got home court advantagestick to the plan_ Arnie smirked just barelythat familiar flash of dry humor pushing through his nerves Before he could answer the door opened Patrick OSullivan entered with a tanned glow and the kind of politicians smile that broadcast itself a full ten feet ahead of him He extended a hand with theatrical enthusiasm Arnie Price he boomed Great to see you again after all these years Chapter 31 The Wrong Seat _Courtyard Hotel Suite 103_ Arnie rose clumsily setting his notepad on the seat just as OSullivan strode into the room filling it the way only a man convinced of his own importance can The Senator clamped onto Arnies hand with a vice grip and pumped Welcome to New Hampshire Senator The Senators pearly white teeth gleamed reflecting Arnies attempt to hide a grimaced look Arnie released first dropped his hand and flexed his fingers trying to get the blood flowing again Yes its been whatthirty years Arnie gestured toward the interview seats with his uncrushed hand He kept his head slightly lowered avoiding direct eye contactthe vulnerability Charlie had coached him to project Good to see you again and thank you for taking the time to sit down with me You must be quite pleased he continued I see from early polling that New Hampshire is warmly receiving you and your message He cleared his throat and forced out the next line as if from a cue card How have you stayed so fit and trim When I look in the mirror I dont see the years treating me nearly as nicely as theyve treated you OSullivan puffed out his chest the pride radiating off him like heat from a boiler My everyday plangym at 5 am ten thousand steps eight hours of sleep and a special protein shake When I win maybe Ill share the formula but for nowhe tapped his Oura ringtrade secret My motto Work hard play hard sleep like a baby In Arnies ear Charlies voice crackled That was a bit thick Recommend dialing it back a couple notches on the flattery meter Points for effort Arnie didnt miss a beat I know we have limited time Senator Shall we He returned to the chair on the right side of the tripoda natural choice for him habit from decades of interviewing Sandra swept in to clip the mic on OSullivans lapel then turned and saw where Arnie had sat Her face went momentarily white the color draining so fast Arnie wondered whether she might faint But she recovered almost instantly Mr PriceArnie she said moving toward the empty seat with both hands gripping the top of it with visible tension Your seat is over here Id prefer this chair Arnie replied eyes dropping back to his notebook Sandra leaned down close voice pitched just above a whisper but firm as galvanized steel The Senator requested this side Its a personal profile preference Hell be more accommodating if hes over here Arnie lifted his head brows knitted in a puzzled expression I see He stood moved to the indicated seat Sandra grabbed his trench coat almost in a snatch then handed it back to him with a this is my house glare She clipped his mic then gestured toward the nowvacant seat Senator Im going to step out and return in exactly thirty minutes She tapped her earpiece Ill be connected if you need anything She crossed to the camera peered into the viewfinder one last time and pressed RECORD Senator OSullivan Arnie Price from _The Beacon_ interviewApril 17 2027 Now recording The door shut with a decisive click behind her Senator OSullivan Arnie said thank you for taking time out of your very busy schedule Pleasewe go back a long time Call me Pat Arnie who normally would have kept things formal forced a small awkward smile Pat he began though it sounded uncomfortable Congratulations on your entering the New Hampshire primary and running for President I admit I havent been keeping up as I shouldcan you give me the elevator pitch for why voters should pick you over the other candidates Nice start murmured Charlie in his ear Well Arnie the Senator said confidently its all about the kitchen table People want someone who understands their pain speaks their language and isnt afraid to stand up and fight for them Arnie rubbed his ear and glanced toward the wallmounted unit before returning his focus to the Senator Im sorry Pattheres a hum in here I cant shake Must be the HVAC He glanced around Do you mind if we switch seats Might help No problem at all Arnie They stood and casually switched seats And as they did Arnie tossed out the coded phrase Have to say Im feeling a bit off this evening Wish they had something like Fritos in the roomget my salt level back up Didnt take you for a Fritos guy OSullivan chuckled All those dusty orange crumbs scattering about In Arnies earstatic then silence The line had gone dead He kept his expression neutral nodded along as OSullivan continued talking But inside his pulse quickened Van Chips Console The van door slid open Franco passed up a togo cardboard container to Charlie perched next to Chip Chips eyes darted across multiple keyboards and screens Courtesy of Connie Said she didnt want our blood sugar dipping Royce helped assemble it Charlie covered his mic Should be goodthanks Franco stepped up and pulled the slider shut behind him Franco leaned in over Chips shoulder Hows it looking All trackers operational Group in the ballroom Arnie stationary in a hotel suite He clicked and brought up a thermal view of Arnies imaging and a floorplan highlighting the location Room 103 just off hotel lobby Any communication Charlies been communicating with Arnie All clear so Charlie froze hit the mute and turned Code word Chip tensed head darting fingers flying across the console switching channels scanning frequencies A spike hit the thermal monitor like a Geiger counter detecting radiation He smacked the console and checked the cable feeds Still there Not good Arnies thermal device now showing a foreign object Very dense signal He zoomed in recalibrating Shoebox size More adjustments plastic casing Numbers spiked again lithium core His breath caught in his throat Thats not electronics A beat Thats charge Theres a bomb in there Franco grabbed the handle yanked the door open and hit the pavement in full stride Chapter 32 Not Done _Courtyard Hotel Suite 103 Grappone Conference Center_ OSullivan crossed the room like he owned it while Arnie fumbled with his coat and notebook even having to crouch down to catch his pencil as it escaped and rolled toward the camera tripod OSullivan sank into his seatrelaxed confidentclasping his hands around his right knee folded neatly over his left He tilted his head watching Arnie like this was going to be easy Sorry about that Arnie said once hed finally settled He reached for the water bottle on the small table to his right took a sip and let just enough dribble onto his shirt to satisfy Charlies earlier coaching Too bad Charlie only had audio and couldnt fully appreciate Arnies version of looking harmless Thanks Pat for making the switch Arnie continued wiping his shirt with the back of his tie his pencil now firmly in hand hovering above his notebook as if the words required holding He kept his gaze downward making himself seem smaller Its been quite a road for you I remember back when you were just getting started Deputy Mayor of Boston to Mayor to successful hitech CEO and then Senator of the Commonwealth Thats a hell of a climb OSullivan nodded along pleased You left off accomplished author of my _Road to Success_ seriesguides that help people build successful lives He flashed a smile bright enough to heat the room Bostons a tough town he added On par with New York Ready to take you down if you dont learn fast I recall you ran for Senator as a toughoncrime candidate Arnie said lightly And Sandras been with you since the beginning hasnt she Campbells assistant then your campaign manager Thats remarkable loyalty The streets of Bostonand the whole stateare safer than theyve ever been OSullivan said with polished warmth Sandras the best in the business Keeps me on track and ready for anything Interesting Arnie murmured tilting his head I was doing some background researchconnecting dots making sure my facts were straight Something stood out Had me scratching my head Did you know Sandras family has ties to organized crime Specifically a man named Shorty Caprini The senators smile stiffened at the edges Im sure youre mistaken he said brushing it away with Teflon easedeny deflect redirect Were here today because people like you and your group took action when they saw injustice Citizens like yourselves are a credit to our society Arnie didnt blink The contracts with Seaport Developmentthe ones Mayor Campbell took the fall for You signed off on those too didnt you That one sank deeper OSullivan stood abruptly and unclipped his mic This interview is The door exploded inward ________________ _Lobby Moments Earlier_ In the ballroom vestibule Sandra Reilly was midsentence with Connie when a woman in a staff badge leaned in close Sandras smile faded Excuse us the woman said gripping Sandras arm and leading her toward the hotel connector Sandra resisted Im in the middle of Im sorry This wont wait Connies jaw dropped as Sandra let herself be pulled away Sandra hurried through the atrium past greenery and waterfall soundscapes She rounded the corner toward Suite 103 just as Franco and two agents in bomb gear appeared from the opposite directionrunning full speed Sandra stopped cold Franco didnt break stride MOVE he barked surging past her The agents slammed through the suite door with a single trained motion OUT Both of younow Franco shouted as he grabbed Arnies jacket ripped it from the chair and tossed it toward the hall Leave everything GO OSullivan stumbled backward What the hell Out Franco repeated already pivoting back toward the table The agents unfolded a collapsible bomb shieldpanels snapping into a protective dome that swallowed the stacked campaign shoeboxes behind OSullivans former seat A low muted thump signaled the shields locks engaging and frequencyblockers activating Shield in placeready for Buster one agent called Then they backed out shutting the door tight The bombdisposal robotBusterrolled into the room its articulated limbs gliding with eerie precision In the corridor the fire alarm pulsed through the building Guests streamed outside beneath drizzly skies confused chatter rising around the emergency lights Sandra had OSullivan by the elbow and was practically shoving him toward their waiting limo where Danny stood at attention We need to go Now she said as Danny opened the rear door What the hell is going on OSullivan snapped hands braced on the roof of the car as he resisted getting in What just happened Did you know he was going to come at me like that Sandra Not now Her voice was steel though her hand trembled Well talk later Keep moving She pushed him inside and climbed in after him Danny shut the door sprinted around to the drivers seat slid in and steered them out of the lotstate capitol dome glowing through the windshield _Behind the Grappone Center_ Franco had his arm around Arnie steadying him as they rounded the side of the hotel toward the delivery dock Halfway there Arnies knees buckled Franco eased him gently down beside a brick wall where the overhang kept out most of the rain Arnie slid to the ground breathing ragged hands flat to the concrete The cold seeped through his palms grounding him in the present Franco dropped into a squat one hand firm on Arnies shoulder Inside bomb techs moved with steady orchestrated precision their muffled commands barely audible You okay Franco asked softly Arnie blinked twice eyes unfocused Victor he said This is what happened to Victor isnt it Someone set him up Just like they tried with me Franco nodded slowly Yeah But this time we got there first Arnie exhaled a long shaking breath His jaw tightened He didnt get the chance to see it through He died before he could finish Youre not Victor Franco said quietly No Arnie said locking eyes with himsomething fierce sharpening there And Im not done Not by a long shot Franco tightened his grip Neither am I Blue and red lights pulsed against parked cars A WMUR news van had already arrivedantenna raised a reporter standing under blinding white lights Across the complex the gala music resumedblissfully unaware Though Arnies body was limp and trembling his eyes held steady Im not done he repeated Chapter 33 Still Standing _Courtyard Hotel Grappone Center_ Arnie sat hunched behind the hotel loading dock one leg bent elbows braced on his knees hands pressed to his forehead The concrete beneath him radiated cold straight through his slacks and the emergency lightsreds ambers stark whitespulsed in slow nauseating waves across the expansive parking lot People were shouting sirens wailed and echoed off the brick faade radios crackled orders into the night but Arnie had blocked all of it out I still see Victor lying there he said voice thin but steady In my arms After thirty years its as fresh today as it was back then Franco stayed crouched beside him absorbing every word never moving more than a few inches from Arnies collapse point He went in solo Arnie continued staring at the space between his shoes Then without lifting his gaze he reached for Francos arm and squeezed finishing softly Thank you for being there A pair of EMTs approached medical kits in hand their steps quick and deliberate on the wet pavement One of them slowed when he spotted the two huddled against the brick wall Everything alright over here he asked looking primarily at Franco before flicking his eyes toward Arnie Arnie noticeably shivering waved them off with a stubborn swipe of his hand Im fine The second EMT crouched immediately unzipping his kit and pulling out a penlight Look up for me sir I told you Im fine Arnie muttered Check on Senator OSullivan Hes in more need of help than I am Franco intervened gently Arnie theyre just trying to help Let them do their job and then we can get back to the event and join the group Im sure theyre worried sick about you right now We dont want that do we Arnie exhaled in defeat and lifted his head He answered the EMTs questions followed the penlight let them take his vitals and check his reflexes A heavy gray blanket was draped over his shoulders and the immediate warmth almost startled him Francos earpiece crackled to life Chips voice came through fast tense Just got official allclear and timer details Remote detonator but also a timer backup set to thirtytwo minutes We had less than eighteen when it was contained and went offline Whewtoo damn close Franco pressed two fingers to his earpiece Nice work Chip And great call on getting Arnie suited up hitech tonight He turned back to the EMT who was zipping up his kit Sir the EMT said glancing at Arnie initial checks look clean but he should head to a hospital for precaution Transports right over there He pointed toward the sleek ambulance idling under bright sodium lights Arnie shook his head before Franco could answer but Franco answered anyway Thanks Franco said but that wont be necessary Ill stay with him the rest of the evening and if anything shifts Ill take him in myself Pretty sure this is adrenaline crash more than anything acute He cast a look at Arnies trembling handssmall tremors but uncharacteristic Troubling The EMT hesitated weighing the situation as he packed up his gear Thats when Richards arrived boots splashing through a shallow puddle his temporary badge clipped to his jacket I can take it from here Richards said with authority Thanks for checking on these gentlemen No need for transport Ive got it The EMT gave a slow nod Very well Hes showing signs of shock Get him somewhere warm give him sweet drinks if hes alert and have him rest with legs elevated Richards and Franco flanked Arnie lifting him gently to his feet We got you Richards said with a grunt That was close Story of my life lately Arnie murmured steadying himself as he regained his balance He motioned for them to ease their griphe wanted to stand on his own Franco filled him in on Chips timer update Richards followed up with news from the Stonegate team Lets not keep them worryingor in the darkany longer than we have to Arnie said tightening the blanket around his shoulders He bent to retrieve his trench coat checking the pocket for his notepad Still there Together they walkedslow at first then steadierback toward the ballroom Grappone Ballroom The Announcement 25 Minutes Earlier Twentyfive minutes before Richards found Arnie and Franco behind the loading dock Mendez strode into the ballroom her head moving in sharp efficient sweeps She rounded the Stonegate table counting heads assessing postures confirming everyone was accounted for Satisfied she pivoted and made a beeline for Richards Dont show alarm she whispered voice tight as piano wireloud enough only for him Richards gave a tiny nod Mendez continued lower We have a situation Theres a bomb in the interview room Richards blinked hard Before he could respond a low wail of sirens bled through the ballroom walls The alarm wasnt inside the Grappone Center but it was closeclose enough to snap heads toward exits The band faltered beneath a swelling rush of voicesquestions fears theories all colliding at once The Stonegate table was no exception Every set of eyes snapped to Detective Mendez Connie was first Whats happened And she looked at the empty seatis Arnie alright Evelyn was on her feet before Mendez could answer We need to find Arnie she declared scanning the exits as if selecting the closest escape route When no one moved she repeated with sharper urgency Now Royce rose beside her Show the way he said glancing down at Phylis who was already gripping her walker like a cavalry charge was imminent Whoahold it Mendez said rising from her crouch and raising both hands in a calmdown gesture That wont be necessary Arnie is fine He just had a bit of excitement She took in their anxious faces I cant go into details but I assure you the situation is under control Franco is with him right now Hes unharmed That quieted everyone Mendez pressed on Please stay here I was only here to get DCI Richards to assist with coordination Arnie will be back shortly Im sure hell have a story to tell soon enough Richards rose to follow her Royce reached into his pocket and grabbed something small pressing it into Richards hand Here Part of my first aid kit Helps with recalibrating Make sure Arnie gets it Richards glanced down at the offeringa bag of Fritos He looked back up at Royce whose eyes were earnest and shining with worry Will do Richards said Before leaving he crouched beside Willow Everything is alright Ill be right back Mr Price is fine And Digby will _not_ go to bed tonight disappointed Stay with the group Willow wiped a tear with the heel of her hand and hugged him hard Be careful Dad Mom will kill me if anything happens to you on this trip Richards hugged her back then chuckled Heythats _my_ line As he threaded through tables and clusters of unsettled guests an amplified voice echoed across the ballroom Leonard stood at the podium hands raised in a calming gesture Ladies and gentlemen may I have your attention Please settle I want to assure you that everything is fine and under control The alarm youre hearing is for a _minor_ emergency at the hotel next door I can report there are no injuries People drifted away from windows and doorways returning slowly to their seats Fire and rescue have kindly asked that we remain here in the ballroom giving them the space they need to do their work Leonard continued The show will go on He waited for applause None came Well be delayed one hour In the meantime please enjoy complimentary refreshments at the bar _That_ earned the applause he was waiting for People gathered at the dessert buffet and took advantage of after dinner merriment With dinner complete and the band packed up Leonard had arranged for Frankie Valli classics to pour through the ballroom speakers _Big Girls Dont Cry_ drifted over the chandeliers giving the cavernous space a new pulse What had been somber and taut with tension an hour earlier now resembled a 1965 sock hop Couplesclearly benefactors of the open barwere swaying spinning and belting lyrics at the ceiling as if auditioning for a retirementcommunity tribute band At the Stonegate table the only one actively imbibing was Phylis Shed ordered a rusty nail whatever that meant and Royce had been more than happy to retrieve ithe needed to pass the dessert buffet both on the way there and back Connie had given up policing his food choices tonight Even she had bandwidth limits By now Mendez had given them a discreet barebones version of the bomb threat Theories flew around the table like pingpong ballseach more dramatic misinformed or conspiratorial than the last Most assumed the target had been OSullivan what better way to make a political statement Only Charliequietly shaking his headkept his dissent to himself Willow spotted Arnie first There she shouted waving both arms like she was signaling a plane to land Arnie came into view walking between Franco and Richards the three of them cutting across the room as _Walk Like a Man_ blared encouragingly from the speakers Everyone rose at once Connie shot forward like shed been fired from a cannon and wrapped Arnie in a crushing hug Dont you ever scare me like that again she said squeezing with the determined vigor of someone juicing a stubborn lemon With what breath he had left Arnie wheezed Wasnt planning on it The rest of the table closed in voices overlappingrelief gratitude nerves admonitionspouring over him in an avalanche of words and hands Evelyn deciding the emotional pleasantries had gone on long enough cut in What happened Mendez said the bomb squad was called Was it an actual bomb Did you see it Franco held up a hand We promised the EMTs wed get Arnie somewhere warm to decompress Well answer your questions but lets pace ourselves okay Phylis narrowed her eyes at Arnie So youre not dancing with me tonight Damn Arnie gave her a sheepish shrug Rain check She smiled shifting her attention to Royce Add dancing with Arnie to my bucket list I told you about the list right Youre keeping it Arnie eased into his chair and took in the circle of anxious faces Not exactly how I expected the night to go But yesIm alright Just shaken And yes there was a bomb in the interview room I was halfway through my questions had OSullivan back on his heels when Franco burst in yelling for us to get out Royce leaned forward rapt What kind of trigger Timer Frequency And placementwhere exactly was it Would it have taken out everyone or was it surgical Aimed at OSullivan Franco looked to Arnie for permission Arnie nodded Franco answered like a professor pleased with a bright student Firstboth Timer and remote frequency override Impressive questions Royce Royces chest expanded a notch Standard British TV fare he said as if this explained everything Franco continued There were campaign promo shoeboxes stacked behind one of the interview chairs One of those contained the devicewired plastics bomb with a ticking clock and a frequency override The table let out a unified _ooh_ prompting Franco to keep going We cant say with certainty who the intended target was And we cant prove it either way A beat It was me Arnie said quietly Gaspsall at once overlapping like startled birds leaving a branch Charlie spoke next I heard everything There was tension from the start Sandra was controlling placement insisting on who sat where She was jumpyneeded out of that room fast Connie added Makes sense I ran into Sandra in the lobby after the interview started Wed barely exchanged two words when a hotel staff person rushed up saying Sandra had to go _now_ There was panic in her eyes Franco added Sandra rushed OSullivan straight to his limo I doubt shes coming back Just then Leonard hustled over tugging at his tux jacket and motioning for Mendez We cant find OSullivan anywhere Whos taking over as emcee he asked over the din_Sherry Sherry baby_ screeching from the speakers I will Mendez said Great Ill introduce you First I need to shut down the bar and get people back in their seats Leonard shook his head and muttered as he headed toward the stage dodging flailing limbs If they can find them Once onstage Leonard lifted his arms with theatrical flourish and announced that the evenings main event was about to begin _Lets Hang On_ faded as chairs scraped and conversations hushed Detective Leah Mendez was introduced striding to the podium in her fulldress uniformpolished composed radiating command Good evening everyone she said adjusting the microphone with a practiced flick Thank you Leonard for hosting us tonight Did you all enjoy yourselves this past hour Thunderous applause Leonardstanding offstagesoaked it in with a modest smile though anyone who knew him could see the mental math calculating 5000 of openbar damage hed never recover He bowed unnecessarily and blew a hammy kiss before slipping away Mendez continued Thank you for your patience tonight As you heard there was a disruption at the hotel next door Many of you have seen the news alerts but I want to offer a brief updateconsider this a minipress briefing She glanced at her notes though she hardly needed them Shortly after six oclock we received word of a suspicious package in the hotel where Senator OSullivan was conducting an interview Out of caution alarms were activated and our bomb squad was dispatched to assess the threat Within thirty minutes we received the allclear The device was safely contained No injuries no detonation no damage We dont yet know specifics about the device or how it entered the building More information will be released as the investigation continues Her eyes swept the room steady and calm What I can assure you is that you are in one of the safest places in New Hampshire right now surrounded by professionals dedicated to protecting our communities Relieved murmurs rippled across the ballroom Unfortunately Senator OSullivans security team advised relocating him to an alternate site He also didnt want this afternoons event to overshadow tonights purpose She straightened hands clasped Were here to recognize individuals who embody courage and integritycitizens who make New Hampshire safer In the Senators absence Ill be presenting tonights awards on behalf of the State Warm respectful applause filled the room Mendez nodded once and moved into position She looked over toward the Stonegate table and gave a subtle signal that their moment was coming Her voice carried clearly across the ballroom Last year this groupled by Arnie Price and supported by investigative consultant Franco Jona and visiting British DCI Alastair Richardshelped us solve a case that had gone cold for decades A murmur rippled through the room admiration folding into curiosity Tonight Mendez continued we honor their courage integrity and willingness to get involved to see lawful justice fulfilled One by one she read out their names Arnie Connie Evelyn Royce Franco Richards Each stepped forward to applause as Mendez read their citationssuccinct tributes to persistence teamwork and bravery When the last of them reached the stage the entire ballroom rose to its feet The applause was overwhelming rolling toward the stage with the kind of energy usually reserved for Broadway finales As they returned to the Stonegate table Willow barreled into her father and wrapped him in a fierce hug Youre my hero she said voice shaky with pride Then she turned and launched herself at Arnie squeezing him tight Can I have a selfie with you I promised Digby Arnie let out a laughan honest relieved oneand leaned in Only if your fathers in it too He hooked an arm around Richards and smiled as Willow snapped the picture then another then one more just in case Digby needs options Arnie straightened and looked at the circle of faces around him Francowho had saved his life tonight Roycewith the Fritos that had somehow become a lifeline Conniewhose hug had nearly crushed his ribs Evelynwho had mobilized a search party before anyone could blink Charlie and Phylistwo unlikely sages whod taught him new ways to listen and understand Where would I be without this group he said barely above a whisper Charlie standing beside him heard it He slipped an arm around Arnies shoulder You he said quietly are giving these people two of the most powerful forces in the world friendship and purpose Revel in that At least for one night Arnie managed a small grateful smile As the crowd began to thin and people drifted toward the exits or the lingering dessert table Arnie leaned toward Franco voice low We need to talk Tonight Franco checked his watch then the room I can arrange that Midnight Rec room Arnie nodded Around the table one by one the Stonegate group met his eyes No words needed They understood This wasnt over Not by a long shot Chapter 34 Lifting the Veil _Stonegate Rec Room_ The Stonegate crew filed into the Rec Room just past 1115 pm moving like people whod returned from a funeral rather than a blacktie gala Jackets and shawls draped over chairs cups of tea and lukewarm decaf appeared and someone switched on the TV for background noise Within seconds WMUR materialized with a red BREAKING NEWS banner crawling across the bottom of the screenimmediately catching Evelyns attention Royce volume she barked sharper than intended All eyes pivoted to the television A reporter stood outside OSullivans campaign headquarters in downtown Concord wind whipping her hair sideways as volunteers chanted and waved signs behind her the street lights amplified by the glare of the news crews hot lamps After tonights bomb scare at the Grappone Center she said campaign officials insist the Senator is unharmed and more determined than ever to continue here in New Hampshire The broadcast cut to the packed campaign headquarters Supporters were chanting Go Pat Go as Sandra Reilly stepped to the makeshift microphone her expression composed but with strain tightening the corners of her eyes Thank you for being here to show your support she said arms lifted in calming reassurance Senator OSullivan is perfectly fine Despite this cowardly attempt to silence him this campaign moves forward A thunderous ovation swallowed the headquarters as OSullivan stepped forwardpale beneath the lights forcing a smile Thank you thank you he began pausing to soak in the adoration I promise youits going to take more than crackpot threats to stop me The crowd erupted Banners waved Sandra clapped behind him smiling but even through the screen something tight and pained clung to her expression When the station cut back to the studio the Rec Room erupted Oh he is milking thisand its shameful how Sandra is framing it Connie snapped Hes turning a bomb into a campaign prop Evelyn muttered Hes alive because Arnie changed seats Royce said quietly tilting an open Fritos bag toward Phylis Evil she said simply eyes fixed on the screen as she pulled out several chips and chewed them like she was grinding gravel After a few minutes of heated commentary the exhaustion finally caught up with everyone Goodnights were exchanged steps dragged and people drifted out Evelyn regained just enough command to call out Breakfast Eight am Our regular table No exceptions Only Arnie Franco Richards and Mendez remained once the room cleared Franco leaned forward forearms resting on his knees Theyve confirmed it Surgical devicetenfoot give or takeanyone in that circle is toast Perfect placement to take out one person HDU is already analyzing the explosive compounds and wiring pattern to see if it matches any recovered signatures Arnie closed his eyes letting the weight of that settle Sandra insisted I sit there he said quietly She didnt want him in that chair He looked up at Detective Mendez We have to get to Billy This has to be enough Richards folded his arms Weve got the ShortySandra connection Sofia placing Shorty at Vinnies the night he died and multiple tips pointing to Caprinis orbit That would be enough for a DCI to act Why isnt it enough here Timing matters Arnie said You saw OSullivan tonight Hes already spinning this If Shorty is behind it were running out of runway I agree Franco said Caprinis the conductor Billys the only one who can name the tune Mendez raised both hands Then Im going to have to wake up a judge for this She stepped away phone already in hand pacing toward the far wall As she moved out of earshot Richards leaned toward Arnie If she gets you access dont go alone Billys a master at reading people Hell feed you only what helps him and nothing more Franco added How about taking Charlie He still has unfinished business eating at him Arnie reacted instantly I dont want my demons making his worse He pushed a hand through his hair Billy may be contained but if he senses were digging deeper than Victor it could be dangerous for Charlie I cant do that to him Your call Richards said gently but we think hed be invaluable If anyone can read the tea leaves on whether Billys steering you into dangerous territory its Charlie Arnie exhaled through his nose slow and conflicted I know He stared into the steam curling from his tea He deserves answers too And if Billy plays word gamesCharlie will catch them Franco nodded Talk to him ahead of time Let him choose Hes the perfect choice Richards added And if this works Kelly can stay with Willow while Charlies gone Shell like that Thanks guys Arnie said the warmth of the teacup pulsing through his fingertips as he raised it with both hands for another sip A moment later Mendez returned exhaling sharply as she lowered herself into a chair We got a judgeSouthern District of Floridaawake and less than thrilled She rubbed her forehead But theyre signing off With conditions controlled location only Billys whereabouts remain undisclosed and I cant tell you where were going until youre physically there Richards spoke before she could say more Charlie goes with Arnie Arnie took a breath Nodded Im on boardCharlie needs to buy in Mendez shot him a look That complicates Hes central to this Richards said firmly Billy wont see him as police If anything hell see someone from his old world Franco added a small silent nod of support Mendez let out a long reluctant breath Fine If hes available Wheels up at eight Manchester Airport Arnie texted immediately _Sensitive trip Need you Leaving at eight Richards okd Kelly staying with Willow_ Three dots Then _Im in Mums the word_ Arnie slipped the phone back into his pocket Last thingkeep an eye on the Stonegate crew tomorrow They have a talent for inadvertently stumbling into danger Franco gave a lazy twofinger salute Consider it done _Arnies Apartment_ Arnie made it back to his apartment a few minutes past midnight He fumbled for the key in his pocket found the lock and barely had it turned before the soft _thump thump thump_ of an eager tail pulsed against the other side of the door The instant he stepped across the threshold Digbys nose was already vacuumsealed to his trouser leg sniffing with the focus of a Hoover on high power Hey boy Arnie whispered closing the door behind him and flicking off the porch light Sorry for getting back a little late Once Digby had collected an adequate dossier of pantleg intel he scooted back a foot and sat staring up with practiced expectancytail now elevated to an advanced windshieldwiper tempo Im a man of my word Arnie told him Let me put my stuff down first He walked to the kitchen table draped his trenchcoat over a chair set the citation envelope beside it and reached into his tux jacket His hand emerged with a palmsized foil packet Digbys eyes locked on itthe intensity of a surgeon preparing for the first incision Arnie peeled back the foil to reveal three pilfered dinner rolls each with a glossy pat of butter melting into its center Here you go boy Three buttered biscuits he said kneeling One by one Arnie handed them over Each disappeared in a single heroic gulp Digby barely pausing between bites except for a blissful _Yes Ill have another_ blink Arnie dusted his hands and held them out palms empty a universal signal of _all gone_ Digby gave the pants one more suspicious sniff then moved on to the trenchcoatjust in case Arnie was mistaken When it yielded no further contraband he returned to his dog bed circled twice flopped down and let out a satisfied moan Arnie placed his hands on the back of a kitchen chair steadying himself as though it were the only thing holding up the tired weight of his body He lingered there deciding hed pack in the morning As he moved toward the hallway he reached over and flicked off the music hed left playing for Digby Dean Martins voice cut off midlament_aint that a kick in the head_leaving the room in a soft almost guilty silence Arnie sighed shook his head and continued toward the hall to turn out the lights But as he passed the breakfront in the living room Claires photo caught his eye He stopped The exhaustion in his chest shifted into something heavier deeper For a moment tonight he murmured to the picture I thought I was going to be joining you He stepped closer one hand resting on the frames edge And for a moment I thought maybe that wouldnt be so bad His throat tightened but he forced himself to continue But Im starting to understand what you meant when youd tell me that one of the most important words I needed to learn was _open_ Listen to the world around you youd say Dont close yourself off He smiled faintly And Id nod like I got it But now Im learning that listening isnt just hearing Its letting people in Letting them help Letting myself be part of something His voice softened There are people counting on me to get this right And I need to be open to them the way you always were with me He pressed two fingers lightly to the glass I still have a lot to learn Thank you for not giving up on me See you soonbut its not time to put the kettle on just yet His voice lowered to the barelythere softness he used to save only for her I love you Good night He blew her a gentle kiss flicked off the hallway light and let the darkness settle around himquiet steady and alive with the sense that tomorrow mattered _Dining Hall Next Morning_ Evelyn was seated at their regular table at 750 tea steaming and scones aligned with military precision Shed commandeered a portable whiteboard and filled the left column_Key Events_ The right column_Next Steps_was blank A resident approached holding a lopsided halfknitted scarf Evelyn dear could I join you I dropped a stitch and No Evelyn said kindly but firmly examining the scarf Its beyond saving Rip it out and start again The woman retreated clutching her scarf like a wounded animal Message received Connie arrived in a burst of citrus perfume and bright morning energy Morning Oh Evyou look tense Did you sleep at all You did Evelyn countered a little sharper than intended tapping the empty side of the whiteboard Everything is moving too fast I cant see the path A year ago things were simpler Connies expression softened Ev you train your mind like an Olympic athlete Youre fine Dont you ever worry about slipping Losing your edge Evelyn asked voice lowered What brought this on Connie said gently Little things Evelyn murmured eyes fixed on the whiteboard Playing with Loretta FieldsI completely forgot whose lead it was Last night I boiled water twice in a row without realizing it Misplaced keys Lost my number two knitting needles Its one thing after another Connie eased into her chair When someone is _truly_ slipping theyre usually the last to notice You just listed every detail with perfect clarity When was the last time you got eight solid hours of sleep Evelyn exhaled I honestly dont know Its hard for me to turn my brain off at night and I refuse to take anything other than chamomile tea Connie tilted her head reading Evelyns hunched shoulders and stiff posture Theres more to it I can tell But we dont have to dig into it right now She nudged her playfully Some other time Nowwhat were the five words I rattled off yesterday Evelyn rolled her eyes Turtle Freedom Apple Seventeen Scone See Connie grinned Sharp as a tack She plucked the marker from Evelyns fingers and wrote on the board in her loopy script _Talk with Jackson_ Speaking ofhe texted this morning Hes coming for breakfast Redhaired Jackson Evelyn added neatly rewriting it in her tidy hand Royce and Phylis arrived settling into their usual spots Connie scooted closer to Evelyn to make room and leaned in her voice low and confident And my diagnosis she whispered Exhaustion Nothing more Youre still top of your game Moments later Richards entered with Willow Kelly and Digby trotting proudly beside them Wheres Arnie Evelyn demanded We have serious followup Richards took a breath Change of plans Arnie and Charlie are on a road trip Theyve gone to see Billy Evelyn snatched the marker and wrote with purpose _Arnie question Billy L_ Finallymovement on the board Before anyone could react two figures appeared at the dining hall entrance Redhaired Jackson entered accompanied by an older man in his midseventiesweathered face carved by sun and years sunbleached stringy hair hanging to his collar a crisp white dress collar peeking neatly above a gray parka He wore faded jeans and a single black leather glove on his right hand an odd and unmistakably deliberate detail that drew every eye at the table Jackson stopped at the pastry table grabbed two pastries handed one to his companion and the pair approached Good morning Jackson said with a halfsmirk Good to meet you all in person Connie elbowed forward and smiled widely Whos your friend Evelyns gaze locked on the glove You said you didnt know who gave you the message You lied The older man raised a steadying hand Easy Youre jumping to conclusions Im not the one who passed Jackson the message And Jacksons my nephew He truly didnt know who handed it to him That was intentional The table fell silent My name is Maurice he said And Ive got a story to tell Mind if I sit Maybe get a cup of coffee Connie had one in front of him within seconds Thanks Maurice lifted the mug with his blackgloved hand and blew across the rising steam He took a sip and let his gaze sweep the table Then lowered the mug and spoke Victor Antonelli was my best friend We were part of a brotherhood And we havent forgotten The group stilled Evelyn lowered her whiteboard Every eye fixed on him The veil began to lift Chapter 35 Right Behind You _April 1994 Sandras Boston Apartment_ Sandra sat curled into a scratchedup wooden kitchen chair legs pulled tight to her chest a halfdrunk bottle of Smirnoff sweating on the table beside her A short glass lay drained within arms reach Her mascara had melted into dark tracks down her cheeks and the ashtray in front of her overflowed with the stubs of a dozen cigarettes mashed flat in frantic succession There was barely room for another A pounding knock shook the door Silence Another volley followed harder this time Yo Sandracome to the door Still nothing Come on Sis I know youre in there Let me in A beat Then with a hard edge Im not kidding Ill bust this door down if you dont open it You dont want that right Im counting down five four three Sandra uncurled herself moving stiffly and shuffled to the door She unlatched the chain unlocked it and turned away again without a word Shorty Caprini pushed the door open with his shoulder and stepped inside carrying a Santarpios pizza box and a brown paper bag Let there be light he announced in his mockGod voice flicking on the overhead fixture The sudden brightness revealed the state of her face the table the cigarettes the bottle He shut the door and crossed the room setting the pizza box down before flipping it open Grabbing a slice he took three rapid cannibalistic bitesno breaths betweenbefore finally looking up at her Sis whoa He wiped his mouth on the back of his hand You look like shit Just saying She didnt blink Didnt move She was locked in a trance staring at something far away that he couldnt see Shorty dragged out a chair and sat directly across from her leaning in until he could meet her downcast eyes Sandra Hey His voice softened in a way only she ever heard Whats going on Im here Big bros here He reached out cupping her shoulders gently tilting her chin toward him Whatevers happening he said in that old protectors tone we can make it go away Talk to me He grabbed a napkin dipped it into the melt of her drink and carefully wiped the mascara streaks from her face She stared back hollowly Youre wasting perfectly good vodka But then she leaned forward into him and he wrapped her in an impenetrable hold one hand cradling the back of her head the other locked around her shoulders He kissed the crown of her hair stroking it once twice holding her for what felt like five minutes to himthough barely a minute had passed He eased back This must be serious he said reaching for another slice Santarpiossausage and garlic Best there is Eat it hot Kev she said tugging a slice from the box you know just what to say to a girl dont you Shorty tossed her a napkin with a flick of his wrist She actually smiledsmall tired crooked but real You lunkhead she murmured Whats up Sandra She took a bite swallowed hard then reached for the vodka bottle She poured herself a splash lifted it toward Shorty in a wordless _you want some_ and kept chewing Shorty pushed up from the table opened the cabinet where glasses used to live and found nothing but dust He scanned the sinkmountainous pile leaning tower a museum of dishes gone to die He grabbed a red Solo cup from the counter and rinsed it out Maid didnt show this week he said carrying the cup back He sat poured himself a couple inches of vodka and snatched another slice Across from him Sandra flicked her fingers toward a fresh pack of Newports jammed two fingers inside and came up empty She stared at it a beat then crushed the pack in her fist and chucked it across the room When did life get so fuckin complicated Kev she snapped Why cant it ever get easier Why does everybody want to fuck with me What happened Hey slow down Shorty said Youre not making sense What the hell is going on She shook her head You wouldnt understand Shorty wiped his hands on a napkin reached across to take hers and softened his voice Try me She didnt meet his eyes but she didnt pull away either He tried a different tack His gaze drifted to the bookshelf He stood retrieved an old photo frame and set it gently in front of them Jones Beach he said Summer of 84 We were looking good then werent we The picture showed the two of them perched on a lifeguard standmatching red swimsuits sunbleached hair bronze tans white zincoxide noses and a confidence that practically glowed through the glass Nothing was gonna stop us Except Dads belt Sandra muttered with a crooked smile And your time in juvie Bumps along the road Shorty shrugged Toughened us up didnt it Sandra took another gulp Shorty set the frame back down Not sure what two Irish Catholics from Hempstead thought they were getting when they took me in His voice softened But hey I had my redeeming qualities I made sure nobody ever messed with my little sister didnt I She laughedweakly Yeah you were always there for me Shortys eyes flashed with old fire Damn straight I made sure it was clear When my sister says nono means no Sandra watched him and for the first time tonight her breathing steadied He leaned in elbows on knees all business now Okay Enough warmup Back to here and now His voice dropped Whats got you And how do I make it better Sandra motioned toward the box of Kleenex on the far side of the table Shorty slid it across She took another swallow of vodkabracing gathering whatever nerve she had leftand yanked out three tissues in quick succession She honked into them with the force of someone trying to clear out winter plumbing Kev she said finally You have to promise me youll keep your cool and NOTI repeat NOTdo anything physical No breaking things No hurting anyone Shortys eyes narrowed He pointed both hands toward his chest Come on sis This is me Exactly she shot back Promise me She leveled the look at him the one that always pinned him to the mat Shorty tilted his head like a confused bulldog trying to read the room After a reluctant beat he gave a nod Say it out loud Shorty cracked a smile gave her his best innocentwhome face put his left hand over his heart raised his right and said with exaggerated sincerity I promise He settled back The next move was hers Its about work she said Not the workwho Im working with Who An intern Coworker Reporter The mayor He tossed the last one out as bait expecting her to scoff Her face tightened In the same instant Shorty stiffened Are you fuckin kidding me The mayor Rowanwhatever the hell his name is His eyes flooded red Whats he done Im going to Shut up Now Sandra snapped a slice of her presssecretary authority stabbing through the fog After a hard breath Ill tell you And Ill tell you my way Shorty wrapped both hands around his cup swallowing it inside his massive palms the sound of plastic crinkling under pressure Sandra was one of the only people aliveother than Billywho could halt his cobra strike Yes she said Its Campbell My boss The man I stand up in front of the press to defend every day The man I hitched my future to What happened Shorty asked through gritted teeth voice low dangerous Last night was supposed to be a celebrationBig Dig milestones the Ted Williams Tunnel announcement Everyone was drinking Afterward Campbell said he needed me to stop by City Hall to talk through a few things hed discussed with the Governor She tipped more vodka into her glass and lifted the bottle his way He declined without words I wentstupidly she said And he cornered me in his office No staff left No cameras He said I could either get on my knees get on my back or get out the doorsaid it like he owned the whole goddamn city He grabbed me and wouldnt let go Her voice splintered I smashed him with the nearest thing I could grab and ran He yelled Youre finished as I hit the stairs Shorty exploded He shot to his feet vodka spraying from the red cup as his fist clenched and crushed it The mangled plastic hung from his hand like something already broken in his mind Ill kill the bastard She was ready STOP she screamed her voice slicing through his rage Sit down She pressed her hands to her temples as though the world were too loud to bear Just be my brother Shorty froze Slowly he obeyed He came back to her side sat next to her and rested an arm around her shoulders She leaned into him chest heaving while his jaw flexed with every unspoken threat Dont do anything she said thickly Ill figure it out Shorty wasnt built for comfort so he pivoted to what he could talk abouthimself Why is everyone trying to screw us Im having issues too Sandra shot him a death glare_now_ he wanted to talk about himself Shorty lifted both hands defensively Nothing like what youre facing I just mean things are happening He regrouped Billys giving me nothing Ive been his right hand for three yearsdoing everything he asksand Ive gotten squat I finally take some initiative set up a nice payday at The Jefferson and what do I get Give it back A slap in the face Sandra rose glass in hand and walked to the window staring out at the Boston rooftops Shorty continuedknowing shed have shut him down if he crossed a line We moved here on promises I was running numbers at Belmont when Billy found metold me I had the goods that I could go far I got you out of Hempstead Long Island You made it to BC then City Hall No one told us itd be easy But there are people out there blocking us We deserve better Shorty joined her at the window A car stereo thumped from the street below the music rising through the floorboards like a pulse _Bum Bum Pah Bah Bum Bum Pah_ _I cant stand this indecision Married with a lack of vision Everybody wants to rule the world_ What do you see when you look out there he asked quietly Before she could answer he lifted an arm toward the golden dome of the State House gleaming over Beacon Hill Ill tell you what I see Opportunity Waiting for someone bold enough to take it But it wont come to us We have to go to it He turned to her Let me handle it His voice darkened Ive got an idea where we can both win I just need to put a few pieces in place Check in with the editor Sandra rotated toward him eyes red but clear Kev you promised No one gets hurt No muscle No press Shorty stroked her hair the gesture tender and frightening in equal measure Trust me he said Trust your brother Sandra turned back to the window and stepped into the warmth of his protective embrace Luccios Back Room Six Weeks Later Sofia Lucchese stood at the hightop table in the back room at Luccios wearing the standard waitress uniform white buttondown blouse black slacks hair pulled into a short ponytail In front of her sat the previous days receipts and an oldfashioned gray adding machine with a pull handle and curling white tape She didnt ask questions Shed been told there were the receipts and then there were _The Receipts_ Whatever that meant She just did what she was told She needed this job Shorty wandered in carrying shopping bags from Jordan Marsh setting them down on the side table like a sherpa unloading at base camp Hey doll he said collapsing into one of the chairs already pulled out Sofia smiled took a sip from her Coke through a straw and glanced at the bags Doing a little shopping I didnt know you liked hanging out at the mall Any blush in there for me Very funny Shorty shot back Thishe motioned to the bagsis my penance Sofia pulled the handle on the adding machine to tally another receipt then raised her glass in a small _you want one_ gesture Shorty nodded With a splash of the Captain if you dont mind Coming up Sofia said pushing through the door to the bar Within a minute she was back with his rum and Coke a wedge of lime on the rim and a straw jutting from the glass Shorty looped his index finger around the straw bent it aside and took a long swallow So she said turning toward him what gives Where do I start Shorty leaned back letting out a breath Im in Billys doghouse after I went ahead and arranged to pull in a cool hundred K Billy and Marion had a big blowup about some family business which led her to take it out on Jordan Marsh and Billy to take it out on me He swirled the ice in his glass And my sisters trapped with a guy whos He caught himself rephrasing not looking out for her best interests He raised his glass in a mock salute and took another swallow Sofia moved in a little closer resting her hand on his knee with a widening smile Come on Shorty youre not fooling me Youre never the victim Whats really going on She leaned in for a kiss Shorty kissed her back then gently pushed her away When were in here we gotta play it smart Okay she said But we can still talk Sofia tugged on her straw and took a slow sip Shorty stared into his glass Im at a fork in the road Can you do it without playing all your cards she asked Oh _youre_ the devious one he said giving her a sideways look I see which way youre leaning Come on I see big things for you she said And Im not just talking about your suit size He let that sit for a beat then said Actually thats whats been happening The wheels are in motion to take care of Sandras problem _and_ line my pockets in the process Theres a snag though Means crossing a line to clean it up The door to the front cracked open and a voice called through Sofia need you up front pronto Evening prep meeting Sofia rose gave Shortys shoulder a squeeze Youll figure it out She started toward the door then glanced back over her shoulder See you tonight Shorty smiled Absolutely Youre what gets me through the day He watched her go eyes lingering until the door swung shut The moment it latched his pager buzzed against his hip He unclipped ita sleek Motorola Advisor 000000 Marions number The go signal Victor was on the move Shorty stepped to the wallmounted break room phone and tore it from its cradle He dialed the Editors pager service waited for the tone then punched in a string of numbers He hung up and squeezed the pager in one hand nursing the rest of his rum and Coke with the other Nothing Two minutes Still nothing Thena sharp chirp EDITOR 104 Shorty slid the pager back onto his belt then picked up the receiver again and dialed Marions number letting it ring once before hanging up Message received He drained his glass and headed over to the bar top for another From the front of the restaurant garlic and marinara rolled back under the door filling the room with their pull Music seeped through as the staff readied for the evening crowd the bass line threading through the walls _Theres a room where the light wont find you_ _holding hands while the walls come tumbling down_ _When they do Ill be right behind you _ Shorty stood grabbed the shopping bags and headed out the back door Hed made his choiceno turning back no matter the cost Chapter 36 Billy Ball _Stonegate to the Airport_ Mendez pulled up to the Stonegate front entrance at 610 am just as the sun began to creep over the rolling treelined horizon Standing under the canopy were Arnie and Charlie wheeled carryons at their sides matching beige trench coats shoulderstrap satchels and identical bucket hats They looked less like men embarking on a highstakes intelligence mission and more like contestants in a senioredition flyfishing tournament As the SUV rolled to a stop Franco turned to Mendez Take good care of these guys Dont let them wander off unattended which I guarantee theyll try to do She shifted into park I havent lost one yet Franco leaned in Im counting on that He reached his right arm across her to unlock the passenger doorsholding the click a beat too long Trunk he added stepping out And keep me posted He shot a sideways glance at the senior sleuths who in their hats jackets and earnest expressions looked ready for a gentle nature walk rather than biggame hunting Franco hopped out walked a few paces toward them and gave them the onceover as if inspecting new recruits Did your moms dress you this morning he said You know youre heading south right Please tell me you packed sunscreen Before they could answer hed grabbed their bags and tossed them into the trunk He swung the back door open chauffeurstyle Your ride awaits Charlie climbed in first sliding across the seat As Arnie followed he paused turned to Franco and said Keep your eyes open and try to keep the others out of trouble I saw that look in Evelyns eyes last night Shes not going to sit idly by As Arnie settled in Franco gave a crooked grin Honestly Im starting to think Phylis is the one we need to worry about This earned an immediate head swivel from Arnie and groan as he eased into the leather seats Franco laughed Relax Like I told you last night Ill babysit the crew like theyre my own He shut the door and stepped back as Mendez eased the SUV into drive Fortyfive minutes later they pulled off I293 onto South Willow Street but instead of heading toward the main airport gate Mendez took a detour down Harvey Road Whats going on You missed the terminal exit Arnie said She checked the rearview catching both of their confused faces Protocol she said Strict federal rules FBOs only FBwhat Charlie asked Private side terminals she clarified signaling onto Bouchard Street She pulled into a reserved slot marked SIGNATURE AVIATION NO PUBLIC ACCESS Seconds later the car doors opened to the hiss of jet engines and the metallic clatter of support vehicles zipping across the tarmac like overcaffeinated ants Mendez guided them through the glass doors of the FBO lobby where a bluesuited security officer stepped forward Mendez flashed her badge murmured a few words and received a nod Were riding in style today boys she said pointing through the large rear windows to a sleek light jet waiting at the edge of the apron airstairs already lowered No hassle no wait no TSA She gestured toward double doors marked AIRFIELD ENTRANCE Head through there and get settled on board I need to check in and grab our groundsite information packet More puzzled looks Ill explain in the air she added Were on a tight window With a quick flick of her eyes she waved them onward and veered toward the Security Administration office Arnie and Charlie stepped onto the tarmac and walked toward the gleaming jet Embraer Phenom 300 stamped proudly near the nose A sharply dressed attendant waited at the stairs Good morning gentlemen he said with a bright smile and aviators that hid every intention Im Ricardo Ill be your inair concierge today Perfect day for flying The Phenoms prepped and ready hot coffee and fresh pastries on board I just need to see some ID Protocol They fumbled through multiple coat pockets like bewildered tourists until their wallets surfaced Ricardo scanned their IDs and motioned them up the stairs Mind your head at the top Sit anywhere Once Detective Mendez is aboard well be wheels up Inside the cabin smelled like new leather crossed with an Ethan Allen showroom Seven wide creamcolored chairs faced each other in configurations perfect for conversation or plotting Arnie and Charlie chose opposing seats ideal for spreading out paperwork and avoiding neck cramps Who knew I couldve made a living as a jetsetting concierge Charlie said as he plopped down testing the seat cushion with a few exploratory presses Impressive he concluded lips pursed in approval Arnie busied himself with papers or rather performed the universal ritual of shuffling things to look occupied Charlie sensing the dodge rose and retrieved two coffees and pastries from the galley returning to find Arnies papers scattered in a semicircle He set the items down and said Spit it out Arnie blinked Spit what out Youre not usually this chatty or this quiet Charlie said Youre trying too hard to look busy And your eyes do this thing when youve got something on your mind but dont want to say it Arnie sighed I should know better around you Im secondguessing whether you should be on this trip Charlies eyebrows climbed Whys that Im worried we might be working at crosspurposes Arnie said I want answers about Victor what I missed what I shouldve known You want answers about The Jefferson And Billy will try to play us against each other if he can He doesnt give anything without taking something Charlie rounded the table and sat beside him His voice was calm steady deliberate Im glad you said that Arnie Yes I want to know what happened in 94 Yes Ive tortured myself for years wondering what I didnt see But let me be absolutely clear nobody died that night The only person who got hurt was me He paused Im here to help you get justice for Victor To make sure the people behind those crimes past and present are held accountable He offered his hand We good Arnie nodded once firmly and shook Charlies hand a silent contract signed without ink binding nonetheless Mendez boarded within five minutes first leaning into the cockpit to give the pilots the green light Ricardo pulled up the stairs behind her as she made her way toward Arnie and Charlie holding a large brown envelope labeled LAZZARO GSI Were good to go she said taking the seat beside them Once were airborne Ill walk you through the logistics and ground rules Ricardo already gliding up the aisle offered a smile that could have been printed and laminated I see youve discovered the coffee and pastries Excellent He gestured with practiced precision toward the overhead bins Could you kindly stow your papers for takeoff Wed prefer you not be assaulted by flying documents if we hit turbulence While Arnie gathered the papers Charlie asked Curiouswhats the difference between an inair concierge and a flight attendant Without missing a step Fifty thousand per annum select event tickets and free transport anywhere in North America Charlie clipped his seat belt and looked out the window I was born thirty years too early Within seconds the engines revvedlow feline ready to springand the Phenom 300 began to taxi The jet turned onto the runway and launched forward with the smooth effortless acceleration of a machine that had never once acknowledged gravity as an equal That was smooth Charlie murmured to Arnie as the aircraft leveled out Hopefully foreshadowing Arnie said leaning down to retrieve the papers hed just stowed Mendez had taken a seat one row back so theyd have room to talk privately but once they were airborne she unclipped grabbed the envelope and slid into the seat beside Arnie So she said looking between them First time in a light jet Its hard to go back to commercial after this She waved one hand to encompass the plush interior As if materializing from thin air Ricardo appeared beside her Can I get you anythingor adjust the cabin ambience Ambience Charlie asked Yes Ricardo said brightly You can customize your sensory profile Sound smell sight taste Charlie perked up Im intrigued Ricardo held out a laminated card listing a startling array of optionsessentially the entire Yankee Candle universeplus extras Charlie flipped through the list then looked at Mendez and Arnie with barely suppressed glee He cleared his throat with mock gravitas Lets go with the Jimmy Buffett package The works Certainly Ricardo said gathering the card and gliding back toward the galley Arnie leaned forward Charlie we need to read a room in Florida not entertain ourselves Point taken Charlie said Arnie turned to Mendez Where are we going exactly What are the ground rules with Billy Do we have any negotiating room if he has information we need Mendez opened the clasp on the envelope and slid out a packet thick with documents and a few large photos Destination Vero Beach she said placing an 812 photograph on the table And this is where well be meeting Billy His house on Crescent Charlie swiveled the photo toward himself Seems to me crime pays Arnie lifted the picture for a closer look Billy always liked the water He glanced at Charlie Are you sure youre not clairvoyant He lives off Jimmy Buffett Memorial Boulevard in a house with palm trees As if on cue Ricardo appeared with a tray of jumbo shrimp cocktail sauce lemon wedges and iced teaimages of palm trees swaying on the cabin walls Enjoy Arnie redirected to Mendez Walk us through the logistics Ill hit the highlights she said spreading the papers across the table You can read through everything before we touch down But after that it all goes back in this envelope before the stairs lower Understood Both men nodded eyes already darting across the pages This is not a meetandgreet Mendez continued Its a tightly controlled monitored threehour session We have an FBI operations contact on standby just in case Were hoping Billy gives us what we need without pushing for extras You know better Arnie said Not exactly exuding confidence Detective Mendez Charlie added Theres always room for negotiation The question is how big the room is Knowing Billy Arnie said hes going to be angling for something before we finish hello And I think I know what hell ask for Mendez narrowed her eyes Enlighten me Return to Luccios he said Not possible Mendez replied Arnie let the point dropfor nowand returned to the documents Charlie claimed a shrimp leaned back and stared out the window Ill leave you to it Mendez said as she returned to her seat a row back At 1130 am Ricardo appeared again hands clasped as if presenting an invisible tray Hows everything here in Margaritaville I trust you enjoyed your sensory experience Well be touching down in twenty minutes so its time to tidy up Charlie perked up Will this service be available on the return flight Id love to try the _Stanley Tucci Searching for Italy_ package Ricardo gave him a radiant smile Excellent choice Just before noon the wheels kissed the runway at Vero Beach Regional Airport the jet gliding toward the tarmac outside the Sun Aviation FBO When the stairs lowered a wave of humid Florida heat surged into the cabin like an eager welcome committee As Arnie and Charlie headed toward the door Ricardo handed each of them a complimentary welcome packet A token of our thanks he said Inside youll find sunglasses lip balm and a straw hat Perfect for oceanside surveillance He laughed at his own joke They stepped onto the stairway landing immediately squinting against the overpowering glare In synchronized resignation both men reached into their bags donned their straw hats and shades and looked every bit like retirees stepping off a cruise excursion Behind them Mendez called Turn aroundI can get a great pic to send back to the gang in New Hampshire Arnie ignored her already descending the stairs toward the pair waiting at the bottom The man looked midthirties well over six feet sandy hair neatly cropped bright orange polo shirt tucked into beige khakis Next to him stood a much smaller womanfive foot three at mostsimilar age brown hair tied back crisp white blouse and standardissue khakis Both radiated nononsense federal energy Mendez rolled her eyes at Arnies marchforward approach then strode up to the woman Im Senior Detective Mendez New Hampshire Crime Unit She extended her credentials for inspection Once satisfied she handed the badge back and gestured toward the parked car Well be escorting you to the site Welcome to Vero Beach Arnie and Charlie stepped forward with handshakes Twenty feet away a black Chevy Tahoe idled with its rear hatch open You have the ground packet Mendez asked The agent tapped the folder tucked under her arm Yes maam This way About a fifteenminute ride That was the extent of the small talk They rolled out of the airport onto Aviation Boulevard in taut silenceuntil it wasnt silent anymore Charlie gasped There it is He leaned forward Could you turn in here to the Jackie Robinson Training Complex for a oneminute detour Id love to get a glimpse of Holman Stadium Im sorry sir the male officer said evenly No deviations permitted Charlie pressed a palm against the glass watching the complex pass His entire expression changedsome mix of boyhood awe and memory long buried Why the excitement Charlie Arnie asked Oh just a memory The last time I was here Charlie murmured eyes still tracking the passing outfields When were you here 1956 Spring Training I was a huge Dodgers fan Came with my dad while visiting my aunt Sandy Koufax was my idol I stood at the chainlink fence for two hours trying to get his autograph Never got close Too bad Arnie said I didnt get it then Charlies voice softened Dad felt bad so he took me out to dinner afterward Ocean Grill right on the coast Theyd just brought my burger and fries when Dad nudged me and pointed to the door Koufax walked inwith three other players Don Drysdale was one of them Arnie let out a low whistle Dad had his camera I asked nicely for autographs on their baseball cards They signed Carl Erskine joked Kid take care of that Its gonna be worth something someday You still have them Arnie asked Locked away Might help Kelly pay for college someday The memorypriceless The Tahoe turned onto Jimmy Buffett Memorial Boulevard palm trees swaying lazily as though auditioning for a postcard A minute later they passed through a secure gate and rolled up the drive toward a seaside bungalow perched on Crescent Mendezs phone pingedtext from Franco _I see youve landedBless location sharing Stonegate had a visitor this morning Black Glove contact Filled us in on their motives Theyre convinced Billy can break this openand theyve got an idea for trapping Victors killer Call when you can_ She tightened started to reply then stopped She tucked her phone back in her handbag and looked up through the front window There standing in front of the garageHawaiian shirt khaki shorts flipflops and an ankle monitor that decidedly did _not_ match the retirement aestheticwas Billy Lazzaro himself He smiled like a man ready for company And like a man who had been waiting Chapter 37 Brotherhood _Thursday 800 am Stonegate Dining Hall_ Maurice sat at the Bridge Clubs usual table shoulders squared fingers curled around a mug of black coffee The eyes and ears of the clubplus Franco and Richardswere fixed on him Steam drifted past his face thin and wavering and something in the way he stared through it made the whole table settle The dining hall buzzed with its usual clatter but here the world had narrowed to one man and what he was about to say He spoke slowly at first like easing into a confessional Words soft building strength as he found his footing Charlie wouldve said this was the moment a speaker tests the room searching for the lane where truth can travel cleanly Victor and I we go back Early nineties Luccios We were both drivers for the Lazzaro associates though Victor drove for Billy directly He showed me the ropes same as he did with most of the guys He tapped the table gathering pace We spent half our lives in the back room at Luccios Killing time between rides Playing cards Cleaning extra plates from the kitchen Betting on the ponies Plenty of macho talk not much followthrough Shallow stuff But under it we had each others backs When things came upand plenty didwe covered for one another Thats what brothers do Phylis checked her watch with a pointed sigh Royce gave her a quick look time is precious Maybe the Cliff Notes version Phylis said Phylis Connie warned we need context The why Evelyn pen poised fixed Maurice with a direct stare Go on Weve got questions and not a lot of patience You saw the news Were being targeted and right now evidence points to you Maurice nodded Understood If you can bear with me Im friend not foe Richards jaw tight unlocked his phone and turned the screen toward Mauricethe blackgloved figure watching Willow from behind Life Is Sweets drapes So start with this Richards said Why were you spying on my daughter Maurice barely glanced at the photo Please Youre a DCI You know better than to lead with fire You build an interrogation you dont burn it down Richards pulled the phone back without comment Maurice nodded to them all Ill answer everything But like Miss Connie said the background matters He turned briefly toward Phylisnot staring but with enough recognition to stop her cold Time is precious he said quietly Phylis froze struck by the implication He straightened again I know each of you Now you need to know me The brotherhood Why were aligned with you He laced his gloved fingers together Last nights bomb attempt changed the timeline Its time to act I come with information and a proposal His gaze swept the table May I proceed Heads nodded Even Evelyn Good Maurice said Arnie gives thirty minutes in his listening sessions I wont need that long And unlike Arnie Ill answer questions Ill bring a fresh pot Connie said already reaching for the carafe Maurice gave her a small warm smile He cleared his throat His voice settled In 94 there were eight of us Drivers And yesthe black gloves He lifted one They became our symbol We werent in the Lazzaro business We were the invisible ones But we heard things Shared things Protection Insurance Brotherhood His gaze dropped Victors murder that April hit hard We assumed it was a rival but nothing fit Billy was distraughtand furious Each of us met with him told him what little wed seen Not much Victor kept business and home separate He paused His funeral was beautiful We made a vowwed find whoever did it Phylis tapped her watch again Yes Maurice said dryly I know Pace He turned to Evelyn You look like the notekeeper Heres your first takeaway The table leaned in We still dont know who killed Victor But we believehis voice tightenedShorty Caprini is at the center of it A ripple moved through the group We searched for thirty years The trail stayed cold until the packet Jackson delivered He nodded at Jackson who shifted in his seat That packet was sent to Dannyone of ours Victor had taken him under his wing Danny replaced Victor as Billys driver and stayed with him for twentyplus years until Billy disappeared Sofia liked Danny even recommended him for a driver slot with OSullivan when a spot opened Small world He let that settle Three weeks ago Danny photographed the packet and sent it to our group chat We didnt know what to make of it Arnies name was on everything but a search for him turned up nothing So Danny called The Beacon asked for him Got forwarded to Cahill Cahill said hed worked with Arnie wanted to meet Danny then asked Danny to be his informant Told him how to get a message to Arnie and not to breathe a word about Cahill Across the table Evelyns pen scratched across the page Maurice raised a brow Shall I continue They nodded The brotherhood drifted over the years Business slowed Uber and Lyft took the rest A thin smile crossed his face Progress right But Danny reached out again when Billy and Sonny disappeared He was trying to make sense of it We regrouped Started keeping tabs on the people who mattered And Billy Billy had opened up to Danny more than most Near the end he said he didnt trust Shorty or his boysnot at all Maurice exhaled So we tailed them Quiet Patient Learned they were handling packagessensitive materials Life Is Sweet was one of the drop points Richards looked up sharply Yes Maurice said The night your daughter was there Wed gotten a tip about a possible explosives delivery We were watching to make sure nothing went sideways We dont work with police because our mission is Victor Always has been And we finally had leads Richards shoulders eased slightly We also saw Bruno and Dino moving campaign materials Didnt make sense unless it was cover Which pointed to Sandra Reilly You know shes Shortys stepsister right Maurice added Soft murmurs He pressed on Back to 94 Six months after Victors death came another Vinnie P Royce straightened Right Sofia wouldnt talk to us about him Charlie gave her one of your gloves and she nearly jumped out of her skin Franco nodded Her boys knew their way around The Beacon Thats where they took the glove Well Maurice said that tracks Were almost certain theres a connection between the Caprinis and The Beacon And thats why Im hereto help flush out whoevers on their payroll He steepled his fingers What you may not know is this Shorty accused Vinnie of skimming from the seaport construction deals And according to Vinnies driverJocko one of oursVinnie found receipts with the code name The Editor Not enough proof to go to Billy Probably wished he had Vinnie died before he could A quiet ripple moved around the table That was the second punch Maurice said Onetwo Victor then Vinnie Franco crossed his arms Arnies due back at the archives Wants to pull City records from 94 Compare them Maurice nodded We have photos of the receipts with The Editor So heres the idea Arnie lets it slipcasuallythat hes planning to compare those receipts with the archive Someone in that building wont like it Richards stiffened Arnie as bait He just survived a bomb You want to dangle him again I know Arnie Franco said Hell jump at it And this time well have every base covered The table went still Maurice looked around at Evelyn Connie Phylis Royce Richards Jackson Franco He lifted his gloved hand The brotherhoods been at this for thirty years he said Were ready to finish it Are you Heads nodded Franco checked his phone Ill reach out to Mendez Tell her about our visitor Make sure they can meet us tonight when theyre back Well brief them on the plan Richards added And have them ask Billy if hes ever heard of The Editor He might know who were dealing with Evelyn capped her marker Then we wait for Arnie Ill reserve the rec room We plan the trap when hes back Connie smiled Just enough time to get a couple pies in the oven Maurice extended his gloved fist across the table One by one they met it For Victor Maurice said For Victor they replied Chapter 38 Cards on the Table _Vero Beach Billys Residence_ The black SUV pulled into the drive with Billy pacing back and forth wearing a wide toobright smile as they pulled insand crunching beneath the tires The female agent up front unbuckled first and pulled a zip pouch from the glove box She turned and passed it back to Charlie I need you all to put your phones and any other electronic devices in this bag Billy is under strict monitoring and can have no contact with communications equipment of any type Arnie and Charlie complied without questiontheyd already been briefed Arnies eyes stayed locked on Billy who rocked back and forth on his heels with a forced smile Mendez spoke gently but firm as the bag was positioned in front of her Come on You can make an exception for me right I have contacts who want updates and I may need to reach them at a moments notice The agent smiled politely No exceptions You agreed to the protocol She nodded toward the pouch Mendez tightened her gripthen dropped it with annoyance The pouch was passed up front and secured in the glove box Besides she continued pointing at Billys waist see that belt hes wearing Its an RF monitor If any device near him so much as chirpsBluetooth cellular WiFi even a cheap walkietalkiewe get alerted His movements stay inside a monitored quiet zone She gestured toward the house Theres also a secondary suppression systemfixed jammers that keep the whole property cold Your phone wont work here anyway If you need to call out we have a secure room with a landline Arnie raised a hand Okay but what happens if Billy leaves the property without the belt His ankle monitorthe one he cant removetriggers alarms if he steps off the property without the belt Think of it like an electronic dog fence He doesnt get shocked agents get alerted Arnie pressed What if he just ditches the belt once hes off the property When hes offproperty if the belt and the ankle bracelet separate by more than ten feet we get an immediate priority alert The male agent said as he turned and joined the conversation Hell have a tactical team on him in seconds Hes in a gilded cage Sounds like Q has come to America Charlie said reaching for the door handle He shot Arnie a look His body language tells me hes got his agenda worked out A pacing lion ready to pounce Ready for that Arnie nodded slipping into game mode This isnt my first goround with Billy Nodding to Charlie to open the door and I have an agenda of my own Billy had his hand out to shake Arnies from fifteen feet away Arnie Price welcome Billy shook his hand with vigor while eyeing Arnies outfit Thats quite a getup Straw hat with a trenchcoat Covering all your bases like always Turning to Charlie he continued you an Arnie clone I dont believe weve met Charlie Charlie Silberman We crossed paths back in the nineties but never met in person Billy eyed him and then back to Arnie Something tells me Charlie here is an ace up your sleeve Billy replied Arnie responded with Were not here to play cards were here to get to the bottom of what happened back in 1994 at city hall and who killed Victor Antonelli and what you know Billys face turned ashen at the mention of Victors name He quickly regained his glow and said thats what I like about you Arnie Direct and to the point Then taking a side step and sweeping with his arms Billy continued Where are my manners Come on in to my humble abode and get comfortable They started walking to the front door as a group with Billy out front He opened the door and then looking at the agents with a glare said just Arnie the rest of you take the footpath around back Thats not how it works Mr Lazzaro Mendez said pushing through into the front foyer Were here as a courtesy She surveyed the layout sunken living room with two walls of windows looking out to lavish patio and pool with a panoramic view of the ocean Tough life you have here Youre quite the charmer Billy said as he walked over to the granite top wet bar ever the host Sitting on one of the couches was a silver haired gentlemanweasel like thin face steel framed glasses business blue suit legs crossed showing no interest in standing to greet the entourage Charlie elbowed Arnie looking at the man on the couch and said interesting this guy was flown in Or he spends his days locked away from the sun Billy reached for a glass iced pitcher of tea with lemons and began to pour out glasses while saying this is Johnny my lawyer here to keep you all honest Johnny barely acknowledged them Get you a glass Arnie Charlie Ive got lemonade if you want an Arnie Palmer Plenty of spirits if you want to spice it up Arnie looked around for an optimal spot to settle in and said how about you and I sit at a table He walked towards a table that looked to be a kitchen nook Easier for me to show you a few things as we talk Out heres better Billy said pointing to a table in screened in section of the patio Too dark back there my eyes need the light Mendez looking at her watch and walked over to the female agent Two boys trying to take control she said with a sigh Can you point me to that room you mentioned I need to make a call before things get too deep At this pace theyll be negotiating logistics for the next half hour The agent turned to her partner Please escort Detective Mendez to the secure room Then turning to Mendez My orders are to stick close to Billy throughout the visit Ill fill you in if anything eventful comes up Ill let you gentlemen catch up She moved to follow the agent then stopped and turned back And let me make it clear No one in this room is authorized to negotiate or make any promises She stood and stared back Got that Arnie nodded Billy smiled Mendez departed Charlie watched I thought you always worked solo Arnie Billy said motioning for them to pull out chairs at the glasstopped table Metal legs scraped slate as they settled in Arnie dropped his satchel with a soft thud Johnny Billy called over his shoulder were out here Bring the drinks Billy claimed the only chair with arms and a higher seat a small bit of stagecraft to put himself on top Arnie rested his arms on his halfopened leather bag and got to the point We dont have much time Billy And given everything thats unfolding neither do you Were here because we think you have answers that can pull the puzzle pieces together He reached into the satchel for papers but Billy placed a hand over the bag Arnie I like you I do Youre a man of integrity You kept your word But nothing comes for free I want justice for Victor more than anyone But you know what I want more Arnie held both hands up Okay Message received But like last time Im the messenger on that front You heard Detective Mendez Reaching for his satchel Let me show you what we have Then you decide what youre willing to share Were here on your invitation What the hell are you talking about Billy shot back You sought me out Ever hear of the Black Gloves The Brotherhood Arnie asked Billys brow creased Let me put it another way Arnie continued Any particular reason you passed a message to your exdriver through Rowan Campbell your childhood friend who just happened to be mayor of Boston in 94 I dont know what youre talking about Billy snapped Charlie took a breath and jumped in You just said Arnie was a man of integrity And here you are lying to him Why is that Color rushed into Billys face He snatched a small rubber ball from the table and squeezed it repeatedly knuckles whitening After a few seconds he set it down gently forced a smile and said Lets start again Then turning his glare on Charlie Whats your play here You some kind of lie detector Or do you have skin in the game Charlie glanced at Arnie who gave a small nod to continue First and foremost this is about justice for Victor Charlie said Im helping Arnie and the group figure out what really happened As for skin in the game You bet I do Remember the Righetti heist at The Jefferson back in 94 Billy held his gaze giving nothing away I was the Concierge Director there Charlie continued The cash was stolen on my watch and planted in my office I was fired My career ended And I know that heist happened under your umbrella I want to know why you framed me and let me take the hit Billy didnt look away His eyes narrowed as if rifling through a mental file He reached for his drink swirled it once then nodded toward Johnny That wasnt me he said Charlie leaned forward but Arnie placed a firm hand on his arm easing him back Arnie broke in well return to that another time Then turning to Billy so far youve lied and dodged Not a great way to start Lets hope things improve He unclipped the satchel and pulled out the papers a Boston Beacon Harborlight article from 94 on City Hall corruption immediately visible Lets start here Arnie said Arnie plucked the article from the top and laid it in front of Billy This was delivered to me personally two weeks ago Billy squinted then glanced at Johnny Johnny get me my readerstheyre on the kitchen counter He looked back at Arnie Whats this have to do with anything You see the circled section with the note YOU GOT THAT WRONG Arnie asked That part calls out Mayor Campbellyour longtime friendas the one signing off on illicit contract payments And here he tapped the red underline buck flowed through him Arnie paused letting the pieces hang So which is it Billy Was Campbell on the take or did he take the fall for someone else Johnny handed Billy the glasses Billy perched them on his nose and scanned the article and margin notes His expression didnt change What else you got he replied a smug tilt to his voice He reached for the rubber ball again squeezing more out of habit than stress Arnie lifted a set of glossy photosPatrick OSullivan Shorty Caprini Sandra Reilly Sofia Lucchese Bruno and Dino Capriniand lined them up in a neat row I presume you heard about the bomb that was neutralized last night at the event we attended Yeah Sorry you had to go through that Billy said dismissively Plenty of crackpots looking for their fifteen minutes Touching Billy Thanks Arnie leaned in Heres a breadcrumb trail Try to keep up He used his yellow pencil as a pointer tapping lightly between the photos The bomb was hidden in OSullivan campaign materials Sandra ReillyCampbells former press secretaryis now OSullivans campaign manager Sandra is Shorty Caprinis stepsister Shortys sons are regularly seen delivering campaign packages Sofia Lucchese was spooked by a black glove from the Brotherhood which sent the boys straight to The Beacon Billy gave nothing Youre a smart guy Billy What do you make of this Arnie asked Before Billy could speak Arnie added And we know Shorty and Sandra are brother and sister Thanks to Evelyn we also know _you_ discovered Shorty at Belmont and arranged his relocation to Boston It always comes back to family doesnt it Still no reaction Billy instead picked up one of the photosOSullivans campaign announcement shot Arnie watched his eyes track the lower corner OSullivan stepping into his car driver partly lit one hand visible a black glove Billys jaw tightened almost imperceptibly He set the photo down slowly deliberately avoiding Arnies gaze You know him Arnie said quietly One of the Brotherhood OSullivans driver Billy set the photo down and reached for his drink Before he could answer Mendez walked onto the patio We need to talk she said to Arnie and Charlie Then glancing at Billy added Privately Dont worry about me Billy said Im a toothless gossip I cant connect with the world Mendezs expression made it clear she wasnt reassured Arnie rose Charlie with him We wont be long she said with a forced smile Dont go anywhere Mendez turned and walked through the front door into the bright midday Florida sun leaving it open behind her There was urgency in her stride an energy shift Arnie and Charlie couldnt ignore They hustled to catch up making it out to the SUV just as Mendez lit a cigarette Charlie leaned toward Arnie as they doubled their pace Feel like Im working overtime today Billys watching his game plan turn into Swiss cheese Looks like Mendezs about to do the same to us Didnt know you smoked Charlie said as they reached her You okay Mendez took a long drag then flicked the cigarette to the curb I dont But Im thinking about starting Bummed one inside Whats got you rattled Arnie asked Im not rattled Mendez said Im annoyed stressed and a bit peeved Not rattled She exhaled slowly I wanted a quiet firstclass road trip down here collect a little intel catch some rays then get back in time for dinner But whats that old Yiddish saying _Mentsh trakht un got lakht_ Man plans God laughs Hes having a good one right now Arnie checked his watch Clocks ticking What do we need to know Mendez filled them in Francos call Maurices visit to Stonegate the BrotherhoodLazzaro connection surveillance findings the bomb tip Danny being the source of Arnies packet She leaned against the car as she wrapped up Consensus from Stonegate Richards The Brotherhood even Franco The Editor was the one who pulled the trigger on Victor Shorty Caprini is in the middle of it And the next best step is to set a trap She leveled her gaze at Arnie With you as bait Charlies reaction was immediate You cant possibly consider that a viable option Dont they know who The Editor is Just arrest them Thats the problem Mendez said They dont They have guesses but no proof She turned back to Arnie I understand youre planning another trip to the Archives at One Beacon Yes Arnie said stepping closer so they wouldnt be overheard What does that have to do with anything The Brotherhood has invoice receipts from 94 earmarked for The Editor Billy has to know about them theyve got Lazzaro shell company fingerprints all over You were heading back to look at City Hall receipts from 94 They want you to leak that youre planning to compare them to a second set of receipts youve uncovered They think thatll flush The Editor out Arnie absorbed it gears turning Its starting to make sense he said Theres no way Billy was behind Victors death But he might know who The Editor is So far he hasnt been forthcoming Charlie said What makes you think hell give us anything Arnie turned to Mendez Let me talk to Billy oneonone It worked last time I think he wants to talk he just has to keep up the toughguy act Get him somewhere quiet where he can drop the armor A thirtyminute walk on the beach Thats all Whats the harm Mendez considered it I see your point But you are in _no_ position to negotiate with Billy Hes going to ask for assurances Hes going to push for terms Anything he asks for goes through me then the district head You cannot negotiate or make promises Do you agree Want me to sit in Charlie asked already knowing No Thanks This has to be just me and Billy Arnie started back toward the house Charlie followed a few steps then turned to Mendez Dont start smoking Chew gum instead He flipped her a pack of Black Jack She glanced at the label and rolled her eyes They made their way back to the patio where Billy had pulled out a deck of cards and commandeered the table engrossed in poker squares Two cards left to flip He needed the Ace of Hearts for a royal flush Two of Clubs Crap Billy muttered as they approached Arnie spoke first Billy how about just you and I take a walk Billy looked up weighing his options No can do came the stern voice of the female agent assigned Whatever you have to discuss happens here No exceptions not on my Detective Mendez headed her off Theres no risk Look at them Neither can outrun your partner even with a mile head start Besides hes wearing a tracker All were proposing is a walk on the beach with eyes on them the whole time Billy blinked up at them I miss family squabbles Adding family is complicatedat least mine Then glancing at the scowling agent How about fate decides If I pull the Ace of Hearts Arnie and I get a half hour on the beach Uninterrupted And if you dont Ill give a piece of information right heresomething relevant to the case free of charge He waved toward Arnies onceorderly materials now a messy scatter Whats the harm Im not going anywhere She looked at her partner Then sighed Fine Youre boxed in anyway Charlie smiled to himself Billy flipped the top card Ace of Hearts He pushed his chair back and nodded at Arnie This way A sixfoot five shadow was instantly on their tail Billy turned and glared I want you a seveniron away No closer If you want progress give us space That can be arranged Right Mendez said looking at the agents Reluctant nods returnedas Billy and Arnie walked out of the backyard toward the beach path Billy climbed the three wooden steps to the footbridge cutting through the bramble Arnie followed loafers grinding sand on wood Why do you cheat at solitaire Arnie asked Whats the point Billy shrugged I dont consider it cheating No one gets hurt and it reinforces my inner need to win Keeps me sharp At the end of the walkway Billy stopped at a stone bench Lets get you more comfortable he said Walk in thosehe pointed to Arnies shoesand you wont last fifty feet Take them off Socks too One of lifes pleasures is feeling sand between your toes Arnie hesitated then complied tucking socks into shoes and sliding them under the bench The only place he ever went barefoot was the shower Roll up your cuffs Billy added I like to walk by the water Dont want you darting around like a hermit crab He glanced back at the agent posted a hundred yards away He mustve sized me up I can only hit a seveniron about that far these days Ready They stepped through the dunes and onto windswept sand The beach was nearly emptytwo joggers a man throwing a ball for his German Shepherd The tide was going out Lets go left Billy said Wind in our face makes for a better walk back Billy moved toward the waterline Arnie followed So Billy said eyes on the horizon whats so important you needed me alone Stonegate had a visitor this morning Arnie replied One of the Black Glove Brotherhood Maurice Billy grinned Hard to forget Maurice Drove for us back in the day Surfer dude Played around in the kitchen when things were slow Guys missed burgers and fries so hed whip things up Victor went to bat for him a couple timesreally needed the work Hows that for memory First authentic answer youve given today Arnie said lowering his straw hat against the breeze You remember a driver named Danny Of course Billy said Drove for me twentyplus years Took over for Victor Why Danny arranged for those newspaper clipsYou got that wrongto be delivered to me Through Maurice Really Billy said stooping to pick up a bleachwhite clamshell He tossed it into the surf The Brotherhood has spent thirty years trying to figure out who killed Victor and why They think theyre close They gave us more information today about flushing the killer out Theyre also convinced youre the key Billy stopped abruptly eyes blazing I did _not_ have Victor killed I had nothing to do with it The pain of losing him lives with me every day He resumed walking Victor was like a son to me Id lost Sonny to his mother Victor was always there No ones suggesting you ordered the hit Arnie said They actually back your versionthat you cared for him But they say there was friction back then With Marion With Sonny Even with Shorty Billy slowed If I ever underestimated anyone it was Shorty I pulled him out of hellhim and his sister Sandra And look how they landed The Brotherhood believes Shorty is at the center of this Arnie said Maybe not the shooter but he may have given the order Billy pulled the stress ball from his pocket His face tightened as he squeezed it in slow crushing pulses Does a person codenamed The Editor mean anything to you Arnie asked Billys squeezing eased No Catchy though Sounds like someone who thinks theyre smarter than they are He looked up at a sea gull circling overhead Maybe a hit man But not a name I ever usedor heard They reached the halfway point Billy pivoted and headed back wind now pushing at their backs The night Victor died Arnie said he sent Danny something in the mailinvoice receipts Didnt make sense to Danny until he reread my Harborlight article and saw the name OSullivan on them Not Campbell Billy said nothing Only the sound of water around their feet Okay Billy Arnie said Heres the last thing I give you for free The Brotherhood wants us to set a trap for The Editor Im going to let the paper know I intend to review the 1994 City Hall archives to compare invoices Ive found with what they have on file That alone could blow things up Shorty and The Editor will want me neutralized Billy mulled that over his eyes gone blank and then refocusing Shortys MO is to send someone else and not dirty his own fingers He took good notes over the years He stopped Do you have anythinganythingthat helps us bring justice for Victor and uncover what happened at City Hall in 94 Arnie let the question hang Billy slipped the ball back into his pocket Something sharpened in his eyes Yes he said I do I would rather spend the rest of my days in Siberia with familyhe swept his arms widethan in paradise alone Then Are you really ready to put your life on the line here Everyone says theyre ready Arnie That is until theres a gun in the room Arnie met his gaze Something raw surfaced Victors death has haunted me for over thirty years Its consumed me Knowing I was part of itand unable to save him or bring his killer to justicehas tortured me My wife is gone Ive been living on borrowed purpose ever since Yes Im ready to risk it all Are you Billys face softened He gripped Arnies shoulders I want to be there when you take the bastard down And I _do_ have information But the only way I share it is if I can leave this prison of isolation and return to Boston To Luccios Arnie resumed walking I cant promise you anything You need to convince Detective Mendez to go to bat for you But give me something nowsomething that shows good faith They neared the bench Billy walked in silence thinking Ten feet from the bench he stopped Sofia Lucchese is my niece he said quietly She kept our financial records She gave me invoiceslikely the same ones Victor sent Danny I left an envelope for Victor on the back seat the night he was killed It included those invoices Sofias been my righthand accountant for years With her help we can take Shorty down And I believe shell give itif Im there Arnie sat on the bench and slipped his socks and shoes back on The agent watched from a distance still vigilant Thank you Billy Arnie said Lets go talk with Detective Mendez See if shes willing to swing Chapter 39 The Mailman Delivers _Vero Beach Airport 430 PM_ The drive back to the Vero Beach airport was quiet at first Mendez rode shotgun her laptop open eyes straining shoulders tense The female agent had stayed behind to coordinate next steps on Billys negotiations leaving the car filled with a different kind of tension the kind that came from too much information and not quite enough certainty The silence broke as the car made an unexpected turn onto Jackie Robinson Lane Thought youd appreciate this came the agents voice from up front Just a driveby Charlie leaned forward eyes fixed on the scenery as it rolled past Thats kind of you The sun was dipping low throwing long shadows across the stadium Charlie watched it in silence for a moment A killer right field this time of day he added Suns brutal Without looking away from the window he raised his voice just enough for Mendez to hear So where do things stand with Billy Charlie asked Whats his price Mendez exhaled eyes still on her screen Still being worked out Hes agreed to turn over evidence against Shorty going back more than twenty years Hes providing documentation tying OSullivan to the city hall kickbacks Hes also guaranteeing proof of illegal contraband shipmentsbut that comes with a nonnegotiable Arnie shifted slightly Which is Amnesty for Bruno and Dino She glanced up briefly And the kicker hes finally disclosed what was in the original packet Victor was carrying Arnie nodded once And Billys request to connect with Sonny Nonstarter Mendez said The Feds shut that down immediately No bargaining there Arnie let the car hum for a beat before leaning forward his tone measured When we land can you get Franco Richards and Maurice to meet us at the Manchester airport diner Mendez glanced at him in the mirror Tonight I want to talk it through before the Bridge Club gets wind of anything Arnie said Ive got a few questions for Maurice Things that dont quite sit right yet Such as For startershow Danny got the information in the first place Second why the Black Gloves were on alert for a bomb And third he paused Sofia What assurances Maurice can give us there She wasnt exactly forthcoming when we met her Charlie turned slightly And her reaction to seeing the Black Glove that was either one hell of a bluff or genuine concern Bluff how Arnie asked She mayve seen it as a chance to signal Shorty Charlie said Raise the flag I couldnt pin down whether shes running things or calming the beast Arnie nodded I cant imagine shed willingly give up her sons even if she turns on Shorty And were not going down the WitSecforkids road again Not after Sonny Sounds like Billys angling for a third option with amnesty Mendez nodded once and reached for her phone Ill call Franco Might be a late night While she spoke quietly into the phone Charlie turned in his seat Whats your take he asked Arnie Is Billy playing us Arnie considered it The Billy I talked to on the beach sounded like a man whos done some real soulsearching But he also sounded like someone who knows leverage when he sees it He was consistent on one frontfamily first Charlie gave a faint smile Hes a poker player No hiding it Motivated sure but I dont think hes shown his whole hand yet You think hes holding something back I do Charlie glanced out the window again as the airfield came into view All roads lead back to Luccios Arnie said And Billy wants back there Bad A beat later We should get time alone with Danny He was with him for over twenty years In the front seat They pulled up to the private terminal a few minutes later Ricardo stood waiting at the bottom of the stairs hands clasped behind his back grin already in place Good visit he asked Plenty of Florida sun I hope the complimentary survival kit worked Arnie slid his glasses down and off revealing unmistakable raccoon shading Ricardo tried to hide a smile Charlie paused halfway up the stairs Change of plans for the flight back Well go with the Redford and Newman_The Sting_ package Ricardos eyebrows lifted Excellent choice Nineteenthirties Chicago skyline Horseracing motif Diner food Ragtime music Whiffs of whiskey and cigars in the air Perfect Charlie said At the top of the stairs he stopped and turned back to Arnie Royce would love this he said You know the con horse in _The Sting_ Arnie shrugged Not really Lucky Dan Charlie said stepping into the cabin where ragtime music was already playing Ricardo beamed remote in hand Arnie followed dropped into the first seat he saw and exhaled hard Royce is definitely rubbing off on you _Airport Diner Manchester NH 830 pm_ The rain had turned cold and steely by the time they pulled into the diner parking lot Arnie and Charlie stepped out trench coats and bucket hats back on collars turned up against the April drizzle Inside the diner looked like it hadnt changed in seventy years stainless steel counters red vinyl booths vintage model airplanes hanging from the ceiling aviation prints lining the walls A massive gumball machine stood by the door red base gleaming glass globe packed with every color imaginable Elvis drifted softly from the jukebox Something about Kentucky rain Franco Richards Mauriceand Roycewere already seated in an oversized booth near the back Arnie stopped short Royce Before he could say more Franco gave him a look _Its fine_ Royce was tucked deep into the booth menu open studying it like a man with a plan Franco glanced up at Arnie and Charlies attire So how were the fish biting today Charlie shrugged as he slipped off his coat and eased into the booth beside Royce Slow But we didnt go home emptyhanded He nodded toward Royce Surprised to see you out this late Royce grinned eyes never leaving the menu People count on me for food reviews Been a while since I stopped incouldnt pass it up Ive got an audience The mailman must deliver The waitress appeared as they settled in Franco pointed to his mug Could you bring a pot Richards added Make that two Royce cleared his throat surveying the table You all look famished Finger foods should do the trick Missan appetizer sampler please And an extra side of fried pickles No one objected Maurice leaned across the table and shook Arnies hand then Charlies Im glad to finally meet you both And grateful for what youve been doing to right some very old wrongs The past seems to have caught up with me Arnie said I owe that in part to you And Danny Maurice nodded Its been eating at us for over thirty years We never stopped lookingjust never thought wed break through Until now The coffee pots arrived and Richards poured Arnie wrapped his hands around his mug welcoming the warmth So he said what changed Maurice folded his hands Danny received a package in the mail No return address Inside were documentsinvoices from 93 and 94 Enough to connect several dots Royce cleared his throat At first Arnie thought it was foodrelated Then Maurice slid a plain folder across the table Royce saw something we didnt Maurice said Royce pulled the envelope out and set it carefully in front of Arnie and Charlie See the postmark Arnie glanced at it Boston Pretty nondescript Regional processing hub isnt it Royce smiled To the laymans eye But not here And why would that be Arnie asked Royce picked up a spoon and tapped the postmark with the handle edge Its how it says Boston Thats the real story The fried pickles arrived Royces eyes lit up He grabbed a napkin took a pickle and after a quick bite returned his attention to the envelope This wasnt run through a machine he said Machine cancels are printed Clean This ones rubberstamped Circular See where the clerk rocked it a little He pointed That means whoever mailed it walked it into a post office branch If theyd dropped it in a random street box youd see an automated stampBOSTON MA 02205 No personality This one Handcancelled And theres a time April second One seventeen in the afternoon Charlie leaned closer Machines dont bother with that Royce continued And see this tiny number in the bars Narrows it down Stationunit code Counter service He beamed Which means smileyoure on candid camera He dabbed sauce from his chin not wanting to accidentally contaminate evidence Arnie leaned in to take a closer look suddenly energized and alert Charlies eyes flicked to Mendez both realizing Royce had just cracked open a new lead Mendez stared at him for a beat then reached for the envelope and snapped a photo Ive got a contact at Bostons Bureau of Investigative Services Her thumbs flew Ill send this and see if they can make the footage available Franco nodded Ill go through it Then to Royce Want to join me Youve got an eye for this Royce blinked then straightened pride warming his face Love to Mendezs phone pinged She glanced down Hes on it Knows youll stop by Ill send you his contact info Arnie turned back to Maurice Tell me about Brotherhood Surveillance How did you know there might be a bomb in transitand why didnt you warn anyone Maurice smiled faintly Were not deep state Not the Freemasons More retired gumshoes with connections built over time Then in a voice intended only for the table he added Back then everyone was looking over their shoulder everyone was looking over their shoulder You couldnt trust the feds couldnt trust your crew couldnt trust anybody Thats why we formed the Brotherhooddrivers were the only ones who saw everything and had nothing to gain And we had each others backs Arnie nodded One of our guys is Cindy Canes fatherinlaw Maurice continued Charlie stiffened slightly Her husband got in over his head with Shorty Maurice said Ran Left Cindy holding the bag Shorty forced her to use the candy store as a front for special packages She was tipped one was comingdangerous to handle She warned our guy but we didnt have physical proof Our guy searched the backroom but never found anything By the time we connected the dots stepping in wouldve blown everythingand we werent sure wed be believed anyway Arnie absorbed that And Sofia How does she fit inand where do her loyalties lie Maurice shrugged From what we gather Luchesse is her maiden namedecided to keep it for business Daughter of Billys older sister who married into an Italian Family empire Danny always believed Sofia wanted none of it and left for the states in late 93 Looked up her uncle Billy who helped get her on her feet Their relationship seems to have been mostly business She runs Luccios books since 94 operations ever since Billy stepped back Shorty doesnt own it outright shes on the paperwork He handles other things He made finger quotes The boys split their time Shortys been grooming them Royce midpickle spoke up Theres an old framed photo at Luccios Behind the bar near the kitchen door Banner overhead_Familyrun for fifty years_ Menu says they started in 44 so the photo is from 94 Everyone looked at him Billys sitting in a chair Staff bunched behind him Sofias right therehands on his shoulders Hes got one hand folded back over hers Fatherly Royce paused At the edge of the frameShorty Watching Silence followed Couldve been nothing Royce added But I got the impression she wasnt standing there by accident and she was very comfortable in that spot as was Billy These babies he said lifting another pickle feed the little grey cells Then suddenly serious Im trusting Connie doesnt need to hear about this Richards chuckled Sowhen it comes down to it Family she came from or family she built Well need one more facetoface with Sofia Arnie said Thats the only way to get closer to that answer Bloods thicker than water Royce said Or marinara Charlie smiled You continue to amaze Arnie leaned back one hand around his mug the other tracing the rim I like the idea of flushing _The Editor_ out But we cant rush it I havent touched base with Cahill yet Hes expecting my interview piece before another Archives visit Charlie shook his head After a bomb scare I think you could get an extension Probably Arnie said Old habits Mendez folded her hands Were tight on time Billys negotiations are forcing our hand Stilla couple of days makes sense From my end Franco added I need time More gear Cleaner setup And Royce and I need a look at that post office footage Royce looked up Youre missing one piece The table went still You need leaks he said Subtle ones BritBox crime 101 Charlie smiled Go on You figure out who needs to hear whatand how Tomorrow and the next day grease the skids Royce paused Then Archives on Wednesday Arnie nodded That works Ill call Cahill in the morning Well meet tomorrow and map the leaks He smiled at Royce You run point My pleasure Royce said I love being out front of Evelyn Arnie turned to Maurice Where are you staying while youre here Maurice hesitated Havent sorted that yet Looks like theres a hotel attached here Nonsense Arnie said Youre staying with me Spare bedroom And from what I hear youve already passed the Digby inspection Maurice smiled Id expect nothing less The waitress dropped the check as they stood Royce glanced around the table So too late for poutine fries Charlie shook his head Royce grinned I can read a room too Chapter 40 All for One One for All _Stonegate Rec Room_ Evelyn was the first to arrive and shed transformed the Rec Room into something between a topsecurity briefing and a congressional hearing A speaker podium stood front and center flanked by cork boards lined with eightbytwelve glossies pinned in precise rows Tables had been pushed tight to the back wall Cushioned metal chairs were arranged in a neat semicircle facing forward A whitenoise machine hissed softly giving the room a sterile librarian calm Evelyn nextlevel as always had hung name tags on the chairs and drawn the blinds to the hallway She was midway through her second mug of ginger turmeric tea reviewing her prepared remarks at the podium when the door creaked open Josie Goldsmith poked her head inside two other senior women in loud brightly colored tracksuits crowding in behind her Whats going on Evelyn Josie said eyeing the room Weve got Sweatin to the Oldies rehearsal this morning Ladies Evelyn said already moving toward them with arms outstretched gently but firmly herding them backward Somethings come up and we needed to make adjustments to todays room schedule Im sure you understand She turned them around and guided them into the hallway just as Royce and Phylis approached Morning Josie Royce said cheerfully as he and Phylis slipped past Lookin good Whats your song this year Locomotion Fan favorite Josie replied still retreating But we need our rehearsal time Gwens new this yearshes got catching up to do Solid choice Volume Two Royce said Well make sure the Rec Rooms stationready when were done He pantomimed pulling a train whistle and let out a couple of toots As the ladies backed down the hallway Phylis tightened her grip on her walker glanced at Royce and muttered Please tell me Im busy that day Thats going to be a train wreck She scootched her walker through the doorway and stopped short taking in Evelyns meticulous setup Evelyn returned just as Phylis stepped farther in Without breaking stride she said pleasantly Phylis could you do me a favor Stand right here and only let people in who are on this list I need to finish setting up Phylis hesitatedbut before she could answer a checkin clipboard was placed neatly in her walker basket and Evelyn was already back at the table shuffling papers Phylis shot Royce a whodoyouthinkyouare look Shes in full form this morning Royce murmured Best to let Evelyn be Evelyn or well have our own train wreck Ill keep you company At that moment Connie appeared at the door juggling two pastry boxes and a carton of Jo coffee a sleeve of takeaway cups clenched between her teeth She gave a silent help me look Royce glanced at Connie then at Phylis then back at the pastries Hold the fort Phylis Ill be back Phylis sighed checked Connies name off the list and said Dont bother I cant compete with Danish Royce followed Connie like a puppy carrying the coffee box and inhaling deeply as he went DCI Richards good morning Connie said Royce will you be a doll and grab some napkins and the creamandsugar packets from the kitchenette for me Royce looked over her shoulder at the spread then nodded and hurried off Where are the girls this morning Connie asked Richards Having a blast Richards said Theyre outside with Digby scouting out the garden allotment Charlie won in this weeks lottery I think Digbys getting the best of this Being encouraged to dig Mr McTavish would be in heaven Before they could banter any further Royce inserted himself with all the requested items and a look Connie knew well Yes Royce Pick your poison Connie said Royce shot her a look Not funny Connie he said in reference to his unfortunate Dominos episode Im much more careful these days He scooped up a cheese Danish Within minutes the full attendee list had filed in with Arnie and Maurice the last to arrive Good morning Phylis Arnie said Maurice nodded in sync She checked off their names pointed with her pencil toward the chairs and said Coffee and pastries at the table Seats are assigned And fair warningEvelyns wound like a top With that Phylis pushed the door closed and slid the deadbolt into place sealing the room against any latearriving Richard Simmons groupies who might try their luck Arnie surveyed the room taking it all in and realized this was a moment to actnot sit back Excuse me Maurice he said Thanks again for the added insight last night Glad you were able to stay over I need to attend to somethingdont hurry off when we break A couple more things I want to discuss with you and a few others Sure thing Maurice replied Charlie came alongside and offered Maurice a goodmorning handshake Hot coffee awaits he said waving toward the table where Royce hovered swaying slightly as he debated his next target Excuse me Arnie said breaking away to connect with Evelyn Good morning Evelyn Youve been busy Arnie said as he approached Evelyn didnt look up She reached for a handful of documents and pushpins then pivoted to the cork board labeled _Timeline_ pinning them with practiced precision Morning Arnie Ill be ready to start in two minutes she said briskly Grab some coffee and a pastry find your seat and Ill bring this to order She unpinned a map and slid it down replacing it with a glossy photo of the Boston Public Library About that Arnie said gently We really appreciate everything youve done herebut Im going to need you to adjust the agenda Evelyn turned and walked to the podium where the printed schedule lay neatly stacked She ran a finger down the page I have you slotted for fifteen minutes she said After my opening remarks Ill lay out tomorrows timeline then walk through the information leaks and our Editor candidates She picked up the metal pointer and gestured toward the adjacent cork board crowded with portrait glossies under the heading _Persons of Interest_ Arnie nodded scanning the agenda giving her the courtesy of a few thoughtful beats Then he met her eyes Thank you This is excellent work he said But Im not looking for a slot She stiffened Im sure you can appreciate that were now working closely with law enforcement he continued gesturing toward Mendez and Richards who stood at the edge of the room deep in conversation and that we have logistics extending beyond our immediate group He nodded toward Franco who was showing Maurice something on his phone Your contribution here is invaluable We need you Arnie said Youre the heart of this group But its important that I lead the meeting this morning For a moment Evelyn just stared at him Her expression flickeredsurprise then shock then something bruised and wounded That gave way to irritation and finally to anger Her jaw tightened Without a word she thrust the metal pointer into Arnies hand and turned sharply toward the door By the time she reached it her eyes were red Phylis still stationed at her post saw the storm brewing and nudged her walker squarely into Evelyns path Sorry Phylis said evenly No one in No one out Evelyn stopped short Her hand shook as it gripped the handle unable to hold firm In a voice Evelyn wasnt used to hearing Phylis added Use that energy and that sharp mind of yours to do whats right She reached out and rested her hand on Evelyns arm still extended toward the doorknob This case has haunted Arnie for thirty years Phylis said quietly We need to be here for himnot the other way around Evelyns anger drained away replaced by a thin wash of shame She blinked took a slow breath and lowered her hand Then she wrapped an arm around Phyliss back Lets go take our seats Evelyn said softly Shall we Arnie stood at the podium like a teacher Waiting He looked over and caught Connies eye Okay everyonelets get started she said waving her arms in full hostess mode Find your seats and leave the food at the table We do not want to vacuum afterward While the group settled Arnie poured himself a glass of water from the pitcher Evelyn had placed on a hightop beside the podium He took a sip and looked out over the room The room went quiet Arnie appeared torn on how to start then settled on an ice breaker Its been an exhausting fortyeight hours he said Ive worn a space blanket gotten sand between my toes and eaten a fried pickle I think Im ready for what comes next but glad I can lean on all of you to see this through Arnie glanced down at his notes then gripped the sides of the podium with renewed energy and determination Thank you all for assembling on such short notice he said And a special thankyou to Evelyn for pulling together this excellent work He gestured to the cork boards lining the wall He held up a large glossy photo showing two men shaking hands on a beach Arnie and Billy Lazzaro A ripple went through the room as he pinned the photo to the nearest board That was yesterday Arnie said And Im telling you now because I want you to hear it from meand not get it from a secondhand source After everything that man has donewhy shake his hand Evelyn said Arnie waited for the room to settle Billy is cooperating For his reasons not ours He wants something back in Boston and hes going to squeeze what he can for it Arnie let his eyes move around the group But on Victor He was shooting straight Id know He moved back to the podium Lets make sure were all on the same page He looked to Mendez Detective Mendez could you give us a briefing on what law enforcement is able to share Mendez stood Were now confident that crimes committed in 1994 were never properly resolved she said Some can be reopened immediately Otherslike murderhave no statute of limitations and are very much back in play Murmurs in the audience Youve already been briefed on the Shorty CapriniSandra Reilly connection and on Sofias relationship to Billy Lazzaro Mendez continued Billy has agreed to provide hard evidence of city hall embezzlement and corruption involving Caprini Reilly and Patrick OSullivan She lowered her voice slightly I cant say more about Billy except that hes motivated to cooperate Sonny Lazzaro is not part of the agreement What is on the table is an operation aimed at identifyingand bringing to justicethe person responsible for Victor Antonellis death She glanced around the room Thats where you come in We need your help leaking carefully controlled information to draw this individual out Nothing more Her gaze hardened You are not to go beyond that Arnie has agreed to act as bait but law enforcement will be fully engaged He will not be put in harms way I will have final say on every step going forward She paused I need to know you all understand that this is not the time to freelance Murmured voices mixed with the hiss of the whitenoise machine Heads nodded around the roomslow sober unanimous Thank you Detective Mendez Arnie said signaling he was taking the reins again DCI Richards will liaise with her to make sure were effective without overstepping If you have a question and cant reach me go through him Nods circled the room No dissentexcept from Evelyn who stared straight ahead still wrestling with the handoff Arnie flipped his notebook to the next page skimmed then looked up One more item On our return last night a few of us met at the Airport Diner to debrief I know most of you already spoke with Maurice so there was no need to rehash But there was one detail I needed to hear firsthand He paused I asked Maurice how Danny got the packet that Jackson later delivered to me Chain of custodyan investigative reporters itch I had to scratch He turned to Royce Royce Arnie said Can you fill everyone in on what you uncovered last night Royce looked up midbite a piece of contraband Danish frozen halfway to his mouth He dabbed quickly at his lips with a napkin You mean the postmark Arnie nodded lifting his water glass The oneminute version Got it Royce said The envelope with the 1994 newspaper articlethe _You got it wrong_ messagewas postmarked in Boston Handstamped That means whoever mailed it went to the counter The stamp includes the date time and clerk Franco leaned forward Detective Mendez has arranged for Royce and me to review postal video tomorrow with the Boston Fedsfor the exact day and time of the dropoff One more piece that should snap into place Well done Royce Connie said clapping Applause followedpolite enthusiastic and even a stiff pair from Evelyn Connie leaned toward Royce and added under her breath For the postmark catchnot the pastry heist Royce sealed his lips folded the napkin and tucked it into his hoodie pocket Arnie glanced at his watch All right Weve got about an hour to get through the main eventsetting the trap He turned toward Evelyn For that Im handing the floor back to Evelyn whos done yeomans work pulling together the details on who we leak information to about my visit to the Beacon archivesso the Editor reveals themselves Arnie closed his notebook gave it a quick onceover then nodded Evelyn he said stepping away from the podium toward the chair labeled _Arnie_ the floor is yours Evelyn smoothed her skirt rose and strode to the podiumconfidence building with each step She grabbed her clipboard off the podium and raised it high for all to see Open your folders she boomed The cover page outlines what we need to work throughtrap logistics who we leak information to and how that information should be framed and delivered She picked up the metal pointer and moved to the cork boards We have photos of all the players here she continued indicating the array of glossies Including a section labeled _Editor Candidates_ Detective Mendez cut in We can discuss timing but not logistics Only Arnie Richards Franco and I will know those details Everyone else will simply know that its happening Understood Evelyn said without hesitation choosing alignment over resistance Do we have a time I havent set it yet Arnie said I wanted us aligned firston what Im saying and who we want hearing it For now lets tentatively target one pm Wednesday Enough time for word to spread not enough time for the Editor to strategize We want to force the pace Evelyn wrote _100 pm Wednesday Tentative_ on a slip of paper and pinned it to the board Lets walk through our cast of characters she said pointing to the first photo Shorty Caprini From what Maurice tells us hes central to all of this How do we get word to him You dont Phylis said sharply Take him off the leak board Evelyn turned Explain You lose chain of custody Phylis replied Move him Royce leaned forward If Shortys at the center he didnt pull the trigger himself He outsourced it Which means hell contact the Editor directly We want information flowing toward him not from him Thats what makes him nervous What he said Phylis added cracking her knuckles Agreed Arnie said Evelyn unpinned Shortys glossy and moved it to the _Do Not Leak_ board Anyone else Connie raised her handthen spoke anyway OSullivan We get the information to Sandra Shell pass it along to Shorty If OSullivan hears it we know Sandras the source His circles too tightand shes glued to him I agree Arnie said Connie you deliver that leak Already lined up Connie said Ill be at Campaign Headquarters tomorrow Sandra will be there You can tell her I plan to compare the contract invoices I mentioned in the interview with city hall archive records Arnie said She taped the interviewshell know exactly what you mean They moved through the list methodically Charlie was assigned Cindy Cane Bruno and Dino were shifted to _Do Not Leak_too many paths through Sandra Sofia and Cindy to control the flow As the discussion bogged down over timing Arnie caught Francos eye and gave a brief nod He slipped into the small kitchenette at the back of the room and dialed Cahill Cahill SeanArnie Arnie You holding up Concord was a scare Im good Solid support group Not how I expected the night to go Arnie said I met with OSullivan and Im compiling notes Ill have something to you in a couple days No rush Cahill said Let it breathe Appreciated Im calling to ask a favor Shoot Can you arrange archive access Wednesday afternoonsay one pm A pause Not sure I can pull that off Cahill said Fredricks wants the OSullivan piece locked first What if I include a firsthand account of the bomb scare and how OSullivan handled it Arnie said Bonus coverage Same breathing room you just mentioned Whats the urgency Cahill asked Keep this close Arnie said I received another packetcity hall invoices from 93 and 94 Two sets of books I want to compare them against the archives while its hot Another pause Can Melissa prep a checklist Arnie added Big Dig and Seaport contracts Ill bring copiesbe in and out Thats a lot Cahill said Whos your source Cant say yet Once I confirm youll be first Arnie jotted a note _Fishing for source_ SoWednesday he asked Let me run it by Fredricks Cahill said Ill get back to you today Thanks Sean I owe you You always do Cahill said and hung up Arnie stared at his notebook and added one more line _Why does Fredricks care_ He returned to the room as Evelyn pointed to Rowan Campbells photo Maurice was explaining why Campbell belonged on the leak listhis visit to Danny the night of the Gala his claim that Billy sent him the lack of any Florida connection And what if Maurice said Campbell crossed the line after Victor was killedtrying to clean up once his cash cow disappeared Arnie nodded his support The group moved on Charlie slid closer You okay Just talked to Cahill Did he agree to Wednesday Maybe Says he needs Fredricks approval That doesnt track And he was fishingfor my source Charlie smiled Hypervigilance File it for now but dont ignore your gut This may mean something and it could be dangerous Evelyn cleared her throat Last photo I shouldve moved her up sooner She pointed to Sofias glossy Ill handle that Franco said Ill call her set up the meeting and give her a little extra context I like it Arnie said With that the leaks were coordinated and assigned Anything else Arnie asked Yes Evelyn said Id like to be in Boston Wednesday while youre at the archives The Boston Public Library has extensive microfiche from that period I dont like that Detective Mendez said Ill go with her Royce offered Im free Wednesday Count me in Phylis said Always wanted a photo with the staircase lions We cant get into drivers Franco said carefully but Chip should be able to handle transport Royce jotted a note on his pad _BPL photo with lion_ Anything else Arnie asked No Evelyn said But I could use help breaking the room down Before we breakan update Arnie said Ive spoken with Cahill and shared the basics we discussed along with a few additional details to make sure he loops in Melissa Thomas and Fredricks He let that land Fredricks have a first name Want to look him up and whats your concern with him Richards asked smartphone in hand EditorInChief Carson Fredricks Been there for years and was a copy editor for sports back in 1994 Nothing solid on the motive front Money Access to inside information Strikes me as a bit of an overreach that Cahill needs to run everything by him these days Rather than waiting for a follow up he continued as for Melissa Thomas she was also a copy editor at The Beacon She worked with our investigative team and had access to all of the materials I worked through She had information about Victor but I never personally revealed to her his identity Ok if nothing else he looked around the room and saw everyone was drained Lets wrap this up I want to underscore what Detective Mendez said at the outset Our role is to set the stage No one goes rogue Are we all agreed Nods circled the room Royce raised a hand Can we at least name this phase of the plan How about _Operation Lucky Dan_a little tribute to _The Sting_ No objection Connie said I had crushes on both Robert Redford and Paul Newman growing up Royce beamed and tapped the bridge of his nose Whats that about Phylis asked You got an itch Its the signal Royce said energized Brotherhood had black gloves and licorice gum For usa simple touch to the nose Means were connected On a mission Lets just hope we dont need an encore Arnie said And that this gets the job done There will be no encore Detective Mendez said firmly Your safetyand the safety of everyone in this roomis our top priority This is a onetime operation Law enforcement is fully engaged Stick to the plan Stick to your roles She nodded once Good luck Royce scratched his nose again No responseuntil Charlie caught his eye grinned and returned the gesture As chairs were folded and tables reset for the next group Franco approached Arnie and met his gaze My eyes wont be distracted this time Franco said You can count on it resolve in his face matching the determination in his voice Thanks Franco Arnie said squeezing his shoulder You already saved the day once this week I know Im in good hands He glanced toward the coffee station Coffee Always Franco said Chapter 41 Command Booth _Stonegate Tuesday Morning_ Okay boy Lets call it here Arnie said through a panting breath as they eased from a jog to a walk He unclipped Digbys lead and continued a few paces to the bench where his water bottle waited He took a long swallow and dropped onto the seat spent in body clear in mind Steam rose from his skin into the midmorning chill April still clinging to winters hangover Digby tore off across the Stonegate grounds weaving through damp leaves and around trees nose to the ground hot on a Family Circus trail So many smells So many signals But which ones mattered Arnie smiled and squeezed another pull from the bottle Here A familiar arm extended a towel from the back of the bench May I join you Charlie asked easing himself down beside him I admire your energy Dont know how you do it Arnie draped the towel around his neck and dabbed at his forehead Its my meditation Most days I dont have the energy certainly not like that He nodded toward Digby now circling a rock pile with chipmunklevel intensity But the first step clears the fog If I dont exercise my heart and lungs my mind stays stuck Charlie crossed one leg over the other resting his arm along the bench back as Digby inspected the crevices of a stone wall Poirot has his gray cells You pump your blood Arnie laughed Something like that Then his expression tightened I cant shake the sense were being manipulated The Brotherhood The Caprinis _The Beacon_ Billy Sandra Reilly It all feels engineered Whats your take Charlie looked up then down considering I wish there were a clean answer My instinct is to map the alliances before the actions The next few days wont just flush out The Editor theyll expose whos actually pulling the strings All signs still point to Shorty And Sofias key to unwinding it Arnie wiped his face then draped the towel back over his shoulder Thats where I land too Come with me tomorrow for the Sofia visit I want your read before I head to the Archives Her loyalty if it exists matters My pleasure Charlie said They stood as DCI Richards approached with Willow and Kelly flanking him Digby spotted them at the same moment they saw him and all three converged in a joyful sprint Grandkids Charlie added dryly as they watched the collision Arnie glanced over Charlie smiled My version of meditation Good morning Alastair Charlie said as Richards closed the distance a large Dunkin coffee in hand Richards raised the cup Morning And thank you Charlie continued for having Kelly stay over Shes having a wonderful time with Willow Theyve really taken to each other Of course Richards said Thats what you say here instead of _youre welcome_ yes Charlie nodded Theyre like twin sisters already Be warned theyre planning a trip to London I havent encouraged it but theres been strategizing Charlie laughed Saw that coming Thatll be up to Kellys mum but Ill be lobbying hard He nodded toward the girls spinning in circles with Digby Be prepared Arnie I suspect Digby features prominently in the pitch Arnie toweled his face again smiling as he shook his head Where are you headed he asked Dining hall first Richards said Then the allotment Apparently rakes railroad ties and a raised bed are involved Theyre hoping to borrow Digby Of course Arnie said turning toward Shattuck Hall I swear hes reverseaging since they arrived Im glad I caught you before the others Richards said pulling a small black notebook from his coat He flipped pages as they walked I met with members of The Brotherhood late yesterday Arnie stopped short Hands still gripping the towel ends he turned How did you manage that Mendez had a sidebar with Maurice after the briefing A feedback sandwich Thanked him for their help so far warned against any vigilante activity And the rest Arnie asked Two parts If they meet with me and share everything they have and stay within the lines theyll be the first to hear what we learn about Victors killer Charlie nodded Sounds fair Howd it go Theyre on board Richards said Franco and I met them at the Red Arrow in Nashua He looked up What _is_ it with diners in this country Baseball and apple pie Arnie said Go on There were seven of them Danny OSullivans driver and five who preferred anonymity Richards squinted at his notes Theyll observe Operation Lucky Dan but they swear they wont go rogue No attentionseeking He tapped the page Heres the concern Theyre convinced Shorty is about to act Theyre watching Luccios Life Is Sweet and the Caprini boys They believe a shipment is coming through and with law enforcement focused on the Archives they dont want anything slipping past As long as they dont spook our operation Arnie said No red berets No open carry They keep their word they might even help Willow came sprinting back Digby at her heels Kelly close behind Mr Price can we take Digby to the allotment Willow asked grinning ear to ear Sure Arnie said handing over the leash They vanished in a blur of waves and shouted goodbyes The men walked on in silence for a hundred yards Near the corner of Shattuck Hall Arnie stopped What do your instincts say he asked Will this work Are we missing something How do you know when its time to give up the ghost Richards tucked the notebook away Its natural to doubt when the pieces are moving But you have a talent for seeing patterns others miss you proved that with the Lazzaros when everyone else saw a harmless matriarch He tapped his temple When I stop forcing things they tend to fall into place Willow calls that my superpower You have it too Charlie nodded You may not see it Arnie but I do You used to listen to the world as a courtesy a pastime This is different Youve got skin in the game now You said it yourself you need to lean on people more He smiled So lean in They reached the side door and stepped inside To their left anchored along the windows in the groups customary booth sat Evelyn and Phylis surrounded by shoeboxes of materials and three neat stacks of colorcoded folders Both women looked geared up to hold a bunker for the long haul Evelyn wore a brownribboned straw hat pulled low to her eyebrows shielding her eyes from the sun pouring through the glass Phylis sported an accountants green visor and her everpresent rubber fingertips Good morning Evelyn Arnie said I didnt know you were a hat person Very orderly look youve got going here He set his towel on the booth seat before sliding in careful not to leave it damp Library War Service Evelyn said Standard issue between 1917 and 1920 American Library Association My mother passed it down Today felt like the right day to put it to use She reached for her clipboard and turned it toward him Perfect timing Im ready to give an update on where we stand She nodded to the teapot and extra cups beside it Fresh pot of matcha Excellent for kicking the brain into high gear Then reaching for the plate she added Cant have it on an empty stomach These came out of the oven this morning they pair nicely Arnie raised both palms and gently waved them side to side Please save me one Charlie said eyeing the plate They look terrific Im going to grab a sandwich before heading over to Life Is Sweet to see Candy Cane Without looking up Phylis held out a Red Bull Got an extra Just say the word Charlie raised his hands Im good Suit yourself Phylis said continuing to log papers into a register before sliding them into a shoebox Evelyn glanced at her clipboard Charlie send me a text when you reach the shop I want to log timing Will do Oh Arnies coming with me Evelyn looked up Why is that I thought you and I were going to walk through logistics and followups Including my visit to the Boston Public Library There are things Ive uncovered I want to share That _was_ the plan Arnie said meeting her gaze But Id like to pay a visit to Life is Sweet in person Talk with Cindy Cane again in person See how shes holding up what kind of pressure shes under and get a firsthand read Evelyn held his eyes pencil poised waiting From what Maurice described shes scared and likely a victim Arnie continued I think hearing this directly from me might steady her maybe even open her up Call it investigative report standard procedure Hard habit to break Phylis lifted her visor Bring me back some licorice Australian Red I want to expand my horizons Charlie grinned Top of the line Nice choice Phylis smiled adjusted her visor and went back to work With visible reluctance Evelyn penciled Arnies name next to Charlies on the sweetshop line Any word from Franco Royce or Connie Arnie asked Evelyn shook her head and set the clipboard down more carefully than necessary Arnie checked his watch Can you text me when you hear from Connie Id love to be a fly on the wall for Sandras call to Shorty once the news lands He stood Thank you Evelyn Phylis Excellent work I look forward to your endofday recap And well circle back on the other items then okay He turned to Charlie and Richards Sandwich No for me Richards said glancing at his phone Just got a text from Mendez She wants me in Concord to start mapping lawenforcement logistics for tomorrow I need to head out He turned to Evelyn Would it be alright to ask you keep an eye out for the girls Theyre over at the allotment with Digby and should be occupied for a while Evelyn looked up managed a tight smile and nodded Thank you Richards said already shrugging into his coat as he headed for the door Of course Evelyn replied but he was gone Towel still draped around his neck Arnie wiped off perspiration that had surfaced on his brow I need to recharge before we head out Ready for that sandwich Charlie Arnie began to walk toward the deli counter Charlie rose and leaned in Youre doing a tremendous service here Thank you He placed his hand briefly over hers and added And please save me a scone if you can Evelyn smiled despite herself as she watched him turn and follow in Arnies footsteps Phylis swiveled pointing with a rubbertipped finger at the plate You have an extra one there for me Evelyn blinked Ive never seen you eat a scone You really _are_ broadening your horizons She slid the plate over Phylis peeled off one fingertip Expanding horizons is exhausting but satisfying she said as she picked up a lemon scone and took a bite She nodded pleased Looking at it thoughtfully she said He likes you What are you talking about Evelyn snapped pulling the plate back and refocusing on her clipboard Then she looked up toward Charlie standing next to Arnie peering through the glass case at sandwich options You think Phylis smiled She brushed the bridge of her nose with the forefinger of her empty hand took another bite of the scone reached for the next set of folders and got back to work At the deli counter Arnie reached into the pocket of his sweats and pulled out his phone He stared at the screen frozenexcept for the slow clenching of the towel in his fist He tipped his head back shoulders dropping as if the air had been knocked out of him Then without a wordto Charlie or anyonehe turned and rushed out the side entrance Chapter 42 I Know Something You Dont _Stonegate Dining Hall_ Arnie pushed through the doors to the outdoor dining patio and moved toward a shaded corner out of the glaresomewhere he could read his flip phone without squinting He scrolled back through Cahills text reading it again _Arnie Lets push the Archives visit until next week Am out rest of the week on personal matter Will contact you when Im back in the office_ He hit return call and lifted the phone to his ear pacing along the stone wall that edged the patio Five rings Then voicemail Cahill here Im out until Monday Leave a message and Ill get back to you when I return If its urgent you can reach out to Carson Fredricks at Arnie clicked off before the number finished His grip tightened his arm cocked slightly the way it did when he was about to throw a ball for Digby He didnt Instead he resumed pacing steps quickening as he worked through his options Thirty seconds later he lifted the phone again and pressed a single key Within two rings the familiar automated voice at _The Beacon_ answered asking whether he knew his partys extension or would like to say the name Carson Fredricks Arnie said The line transferred Good morning Carson Fredricks lineCharlotte speaking Whom do I have the pleasure of speaking with Arnie drew a breath consciously slowing his cadence brightening his tone Good morning Charlotte Arnie Price here Im on assignment for Sean Cahill and it appears hes out for the rest of the week Is Carson available for a quick chat Let me check for you The line clicked replaced by a looping message extolling the _awardwinning Beacon_ and an _incredible subscription discount_ Arnies pacing quickened Nearly five minutes later the recording cut off Arnie Pricegood to hear from you Carson Fredricks said Sean filled me in on your latest close call You okay Anything we can do for you Goes without saying you can take extra time on the piece Arnie paced the wall twice before Carson finally paused Thanks Carson he said sliding in smoothly Its been an eventful few days but Im doing fine I wont take much of your time Id spoken with Sean about visiting the basement archives tomorrow He left me a message suggesting we push to next week I was hoping there might still be a way to come in as planned I know my way aroundSean usually just lets me in and out He stopped leaned against the stone wall and waited When no response came he added I ran into Melissa Thomas during my last visit Shes got a good handle on things down there Any chance she could coordinate No need for you to get inconvenienced A beat Then Fredricks cleared his throat Whats on your radar Arnie Is this connected to the piece youre writing for us Arnies eye tightened Oh Cahill didnt mention it Without waiting for an answer Yes I need some background on OSullivan from his City Hall days94 specifically Prior investigative notes Interviews Paper trail material that didnt make it into print Id rather not push the article too far back while its still timely He resumed pacing the phone tight to his ear Hm Fredricks said at last That makes sense Ill let Ms Thomas know youll be by tomorrow A pause What time were you thinking Arnie clenched his left fist and pulled it in tighthis own quiet confirmation that the line was holding One pm Thanks Carson I appreciate it Take care of yourself Arnie Looking forward to seeing the piece The line went dead Arnie felt someone approaching and turned to find Charlie standing there brown paper bag with the top curled by fingers in one hand and a togo cup in each hand Ham and Swiss Charlie said offering one hand forward Hope that works Everything okay All good Arnie replied tucking the phone into his pocket Minor bump Smoothed out He took the bag in one hand and the cup in the other He sipped and smiled Arnold Palmer Nice Figured you could use it Charlie said Arnie nodded Ready to take that ride to the sweet shop _OSullivan Campaign Headquarters Peterborough_ Campaign headquarters was buzzing _I Wont Back Down_ pulsed through the open office spacethe newly adopted theme song of the campaign Posters lined the walls OSullivan at attention pitchfork firmly in hand the slogan beneath reading _Stand Your Ground with Pat_ Ever since the bomb scare the phone lines had been lit Three new social media coordinators had been hired a dozen volunteers brought oneach one now stationed behind a keyboard fielding messages and donation links Individual contributionsthe lifeblood of any campaignwere closing in on a quarter million dollars since Saturday Connie spotted Sandra standing in front of a wallsized New Hampshire map pushing pins sticking Postitsplotting the next few days like a military advance Noisecanceling Beats wrapped her ears Connie opened the office door a foot and rapped lightly as she leaned in Knock knock Sandragot a second No response Connie stepped farther into Sandras line of sight and raised two fingers Sandra acknowledged without looking set down the pin box and slid her headphones to rest around her neck Its a madhouse she said gesturing broadly with both hands These are the only way I can block it all out Connie glanced at the map Exciting times Youve got pins everywhere I hope I dont have to travel to all those places anytime soon Id be living out of a rental Oh no Sandra said reaching for her campaign water bottle Just Hillsborough County She pointed then turned back already refocusing Do you need something Charm mode on Connie smiled Yes dear Just wanted to give you a headsupIll be out tomorrow Hope thats okay Im on childcare duty Plus a dog Sandra paused Im good with kids Connie added lightly Dogs can be tricky Though Arnies dog is the exception Always well behaved With the line cast Connie turned and drifted toward the door One beat Two Why would Arnie need you to watch his dog Sandra asked without turning Connie pivoted smoothly on the ball of her Sketchers Something about a visit to The Beacon Archives in Boston He got a packageold documents I think From the nineties She tapped a finger thoughtfully against her chin eyes lifting City Hall contracts Then she waved it off Something like that I dont ask many questions I just help him out with Digby now and then Before Sandra could respond Connie turned back toward the door lifted a hand in a casual reverse wave Thanks for understanding See you Thursday Happy pinning She closed the door walked a few steps down the hallway then stopped From her handbag she pulled a compact mirror as if checking her lipstick In the reflection she watched Sandra reach immediately for her phone flicking through the screen like she was striking a match A moment later the blinds snapped shut Connie puckered smiled at herself snapped the compact closed and continued toward the front door She slipped the mirror back into her bag pulled out her phone and texted Evelyn _Message received and passed onwith passion Eyes but no ears_ _Life is Sweet Candy Shoppe Keene_ Charlie pulled the Fairlane into a slot on Central Square two storefronts down from the pink faade of _Life Is Sweet_ With spring in the air the shop had spilled outwardtables and chairs fenced in by white plastic rails paper orb lights strung between the trees like an invitation to linger Pink and white bulbs bobbed gently beckoning passersby toward sugar and ice cream They stepped out of the car dropped their crumpled lunch bags into the curbside trash bin and headed toward the entrance Arnie slowed then stopped How are you at reading a room from the outside he asked I dont follow Charlie said Arnie found a bench sat and motioned for Charlie to join him He crossed one leg over the other unhurried I want to go in alone Charlie slipped his hands into his windbreaker pockets Im listening And I can tell youre not looking for permission Arnie smiled clasping his hands around his knee No need to leak my visit to One Beacon here Im taking a different tackand it only works if Im solo He nodded toward the shop Ill do my talking at the register Cindys likely to get defensive if she sees you Considering your last encounter Charlie studied the storefront I want the message to come from me Arnie continued Nothing triangulated We know from Maurice that the Caprini boys have been leaning on her Theyre messengers I want to speak past themwithout anyone else caught in the middle Charlie stiffened What are you planning Trust me Arnie said rising Thats all Im asking Charlie stood as well meeting his gaze Sounds like youre fanning the flames Your blood wont bring Victor back Id strongly advise against breaking your own rules and going rogue Duly noted Arnie said lightly Youre a good friend Want anything Charlie shook his head and claimed one of the outdoor tables with a clear view of the entrance He pulled out his phone typed a few words then deleted them and slipped it back into his pocket The bells jingled as Arnie pushed through the door Inside the air was thick with sugar Pastel walls glass jars packed with color shelves bursting with confection Soft xylophone notes threaded with gentle strings drifted through the shoppe giving the space a soothing almost magical calm Easter had passed school was in session and all was quietjust two senior women lingering over brownies and truffles sampling freely Cindy worked the counter She glanced up lifted a finger in a _let me know if you need anything_ gesture Arnie nodded and began a slow circuit of the shop browsing as though he had nowhere else to be After ten minutes of Can I try that one Cindy excused herself from the pair and wandered over How may I sweeten your day she asked Then Oh its you What do you want You have the patience of a saint Arnie said watching the women gather their purchases and head for the door She smiled You wouldnt say that if youd seen me a couple weeks agokids bouncing off the walls parents pretending not to notice She started back toward the register Im looking for Australian red licorice Arnie said Do you carry it Her face brightened Absolutely Right this way She retrieved a bag from the top shelf while Arnie opted to wait at the counter Anything else she asked peeling off the price sticker Not today thanks Arnie replied channeling his attempt at inner Connie warmth This stuffs addictive Cindy said as Arnie reached for his wallet Then lowering her voice But I never said that She smiled Arnie laid a twenty on the counteralong with two folded photographs and a card Cindy he said quietly Not sure if I told you my name on my last visit Pause Arnie Price I know things have been rough lately She froze The door jingled as two mothers with strollers rolled in Isnt this place amazing one said You _have_ to see their cupcakesbest for birthday parties Ill be right with you Cindy said her smile thin practiced Arnie slid the photos across the counterBruno and Dino unmistakable You dont have to say anything I know theyve been putting pressure on you Thats going to stop Ive got a few things to line up first He pulled the photos back left his card If you reach a point where you want to talk Im ready to listen And to help He picked up the licorice nodded toward the bill Keep the change At the door he paused and glanced back Ohand please give my regards to the Caprini boys Theyll want to clear things out within the next twentyfour hours Then he was gone _Luccios Restaurant Boston North End_ By early afternoon Franco and Royce were heading south on 93 Royce stared out the window as they crossed the Zakim Bridge lost somewhere beyond the river Franco sat beside him in the back of the sedan a tablet balanced on his knee stylus moving with quiet precision Roycecan I get your signature here Franco said angling the screen toward him No response Royce Franco nudged him lightly with the stylus You with me Royce turned the look on his face catching Franco off guard Yeah Just sorting through a few things Franco handed him the pen again Need this before theyll give us access to the video Confidentiality and nondisclosure Boilerplate stuffno sharing outside law enforcement or authorized parties Royce scanned the heading and hesitated Carrying secrets is a heavy burden he said quietly Not something Im used to He signed handed the stylus back Franco studied him for a beat From what Ive seen youre pretty good at keeping Connie in the dark about your nutritional choices That brought a spark back to Royce Fair And while were in the North End I want a box of cannoli Go big or go home He smiled There you are Franco said grinning He leaned forward and spoke to the driver Heycan you drop us at Cross and Hanover Well walk from there Need to make a quick stop first Royce nodded Once a mailman always a mailman They headed north on Hanover within minutes Franco walked with purpose Royce windowshopped lagged then hustled to catch up At Richmond Street Franco stopped Were in and out Just setting up Arnies meeting with Sofia No chatter Royce zipped his lips and locked them The _Closed_ sign was up at Luccios but the door stood ajar Franco slipped inside holding it for Royce The entryway was dim the dining room emptytables bare no linens no place settings Opening was still hours away The kitchen however was already at war They followed the walnut bar toward the back Franco took in the mirrored wall and topshelf bottles Royce snagged a toothpick from a dish and then elbowed Franco See he whispered 94 staff photo Sofia and Billy Franco glanced once raised a finger to his lips Royce smiled anyway The kitchen door swung open Sofia emerged midsentence frustration spilling over I need you to fix this We cant serve fish thats been She stopped cold You know what to do she said to the suited man beside her sending him away Then to Franco and Royce This is not a good time Make an appointment She turned back toward the kitchen Franco stepped forward just enough Were not here to talk Im delivering a message Sofia pushed his arm down Youve got one minute Arnie Price will be in Boston tomorrow Franco said evenly Hes reviewing City Hall invoices from 94 at the Archives at One Beacon He has documents from an anonymous source and from Billy Lazzaro He wants to speak with you firsthere Eleven am Sofia didnt blink He knows you kept Billys books Franco added He wants your perspective before he writes Tomorrow wont work She grabbed a pad wrote quickly tore off the page and pressed it into Francos hand Some other time Please see yourselves out She vanished back into the kitchen noise Outside Royce shook his head Didnt seem thrilled Ten minutes later on Sudbury Street Franco unfolded the note _11 Greenway Carousel AP only_ He thumbed out two textsone to Arnie with the time and place another to Evelyn confirming the meeting no details He left that to Arnie All right Franco said Lets go watch some video That was a firstclass acting job The light changed Franco crossed fast Royce hustled after him Inside the John F Kennedy Federal Building they checked in and waited visitor badges hanging from their necks Royce leaned toward a water fountain breathing hard Out of practice he said wiping his mouth Franco lowered his voice Shes being watched Im no Charliebut that was fear not anger While they waited Royce reached into his jacket pocket and pinned something to his lapel Franco noticed immediately What are you doing Royce puffed out his chest Thirtyyear USPS honorable service pin he said pride unfiltered This should open doors Admirable Franco said hiding a smile but in this building youre more likely to set off a metal detector He nodded toward security Gentlemen A gruff voice cut in The woman waiting for them looked heavyset grayhaired and mildly resentful of the assignment When Franco stood and turned on the charm her tone softened just enough Gerty Wentworth she said gesturing them forward As predicted Royces pin tripped the detector Security slid it into a tray Pick it up on the way out They rode the elevator to the seventeenth floor Franco nodded along to Gertys running commentary Royce stared at the ceiling suddenly invisible The room they were led into was barely bigger than a supply closetthree chairs two monitors and an intern who stood as they entered Topher he said offering his hand Royce shook it enthusiastically Topher Grace That 70s Show Loved it Franco slipped off his jacket and draped it over a chair Focus Royce Remember why were here Royce sat rubbed his hands together Right Lets see what youve got Topher nodded already turning to the screens They briefed me Youre working off a handcancelled postmark Hand cancel narrows things down Topher said Counter service only No street boxes no machines He lifted his keychain and used the red laser to circle the code on the monitor This identifier hereits a station unit not a clerk People mix that up Royce leaned forward So where does it land Topher entered the code scrolled then switched keyboards North End grouping Thats the administrative bucket Franco glanced at Royce How many branches Franco asked Topher pulled up a map and zoomed Three depending on staffing Hanover Street is one Theres a lobby counter on Boylston that occasionally pulls from the same unit And a Back Bay annex that shares the stamp during peak hours Only Hanover has steady walkin counter traffic at that hour Royce said Topher nodded Exactly Oneseventeen pm Lunch crossover Hanover fits best The others mostly handle commercial mail Franco exhaled All right Lets start with Hanover One pm back to noon What cameras Topher opened the archive Four feedsMain Entrance Counter Front Counter Rear Main entrance first Franco said rolling up his sleeves Ready Royce Born ready They ran the footage from one to onethirty Then again Hats scarves faces angled down Nothing Counter rear Franco said Lets widen the windowtwelvethirty An hour later they had nothing but stiff necks Royce sat up Weve been assuming counter service But the envelope had weightmultiple pages What if it went into one of the blue boxes out front Topher looked over If it was nonmachinable it wouldve been pulled and handcancelled inside Royce nodded What time do they empty those bins Topher checked Nine One Five So the drop happened between nine and one Royce said Weve been watching the wrong window Exterior camera Franco asked Topher brought it up and rewound Lets catch the nineam pull The timestamp rolled back to 847 There Royce said Let it run The angle was wide and imperfectbut enough At 1123 a woman approached wearing a fur cap black hair loose beneath it a tailored wool coat pulled tight She paused looked down at the envelope in her gloved hand opened the binand before dropping it glanced up at the camera Not startled Defiant Sofia Lucchese She released the handle steadied herself and walked on Less than a minute later another figure approached the box Head down Wool cap Collar up They stared at the bin for several seconds then moved off in the same direction Sofia had gone No one spoke Firstclass acting job indeed Royce said finally No wonder she wants to meet Arnie at a carousel Franco typed a single word and sent it to Mendez Richards and Arnie Sofia He closed the tablet and rested a hand on Royces shoulder Lets go get you that cannoli Chapter 43 Turning the Heel _Boston Greenway Carousel_ Arnie crossed Atlantic Avenue at 1045 am a folded newspaper tucked under his arm a takeaway coffee in hand wearing his signature trench coat and fedora Any hope of a discreet early arrival evaporated in the face of an unseasonably warm spring morning the temperature pushing toward seventy Boston was shaking off winterbaby strollers everywhere tourists already in Tshirts With Patriots Day only two days past the Greenway was especially crowded visiting marathoners gingerly stretching sore legs as they walked with friends and family soaking in what the guidebooks liked to call Americas most walkable city The carousel was warming up for its eleven oclock opening empty horses and painted figures rising and falling to the boisterous churn of fairground organ music Parents grandparents and children of every age queued behind the gate inching forward with restless anticipation Half a dozen strategically placed vendor carts ringed the area selling snacks drinks balloons and leftover marathon memorabilia A perfect place to meetand an even better place to disappear Arnie spotted an open bench along the perimeter positioned with a clear view of foot traffic approaching from the Faneuil Hall sidehis best guess at Sofias direction of arrival He slipped out of his coat draped it over the back of the bench and sat sloshing coffee onto the pavement as he unfolded his newspaper in an effort to look distracted He crossed one leg turned a page uncrossed crossed the other His eyes skimmed the headlines without absorbing a word the pages rustling in his unsteady hands Keeping the paper raised he twisted his left wrist just enough to check the time 1057 am He turned the page then abruptly lowered the paper as a slender darkhaired woman came into viewonly to watch her veer away toward Christopher Columbus Park False sighting Arnie flipped another page then looked up as the carousel gate swung open and the excited shrieks of children swelled In the warped reflection of an oldfashioned popcorn cart he caught the back of someone settling onto the bench behind himbags rustling yellowandgreen head scarf an oversized sweater hanging loose The careful slowness of a woman playing grandmother Do not turn around came a voice he recognized instantly Do not turn around or acknowledge we are talking If you do this conversation is over Arnie froze Then his shoulders dropped the realization settling in that whatever advantage hed hoped to gain was already gone He folded the newspaper and said quietly Youre in the wrong line of business Arnie people see what they want to seeor what they expect to see Sofia replied I observe people for a living You have toif you want to survive in the restaurant business And in the family He heard the crinkle of a bag behind him followed by the faint scrape of metal His muscles tensedthen relaxed as a familiar clicking sound rose instead He exhaled Knitting a sweater he asked Socks Sofia said The needles paused After a momentafter she inspected her progress and held it out slightlyshe added Turning the heel is always a challenge How do you find the time he asked shifting into a more comfortable position She resumed knitting needles clicking in a steady rhythm I love coming here to watch the young mothers and their kids Part of me wants to go back Sofia said relive those days with a little more appreciation Not waste it A small pause But thats why they say youth is wasted on the young isnt it You have to live it before you understand what youve lost The needles picked up speed as her thoughts shifted When I hear young parents complain I want to stop them Tell them to open their eyes Soak it in Live itlove it Her cadence slowed Then again half the young women who come here with kids are nannies Whats the good in that The mothers are working themselves to exhaustion just to afford some commercial version of an uppermiddleclass life Arnie sipped his coffeea familiar habit from long afternoons at the library when a speaker was still setting the stage He set the cup on the bench arm and as Sofia continued reached for his coat pulling out his notebook and pencil You have kids Arnie she asked He answered immediately the notebook settling onto his lap No His eyes drifted to a young couple pushing a stroller past the carousel The father steered with one hand while the mother leaned in adjusting the babys powderblue sweater How come Sofia asked The clicking stopped Still watching the couple Arnie said quietly It was never the right time Then came the dagger Right time for who The couple laughed as they stopped at a balloon cart speaking in exaggerated joyful tones to their babypointing gesturing marveling at the bright shapes bobbing overhead Arnies voice slowed his shoulders sagging Clairemy wifewanted kids He kept his eyes on the family I kept saying After this story After the next raise Behind him children streamed off the carousel pleading with parents to go again to ride a different animal this time Then it was too late Arnie said Victor diedon my pushing I spiraled And Claire His voice caught Claire had an accident He drew in a sharp breath tryingand failingto steady himself Im sorry Sofia said Arnie shoved a hand into his coat pocket pulled out a Kleenex and blew his nose forcing himself to refocus The needles had started again their soft clicking steady and deliberate He seized the opening Is that why youre here he asked For your sons Yes Then after a beat And no A bag rustled in the carts blur an arm lifted tugging yarn free Yes Im here to protect my sonsfrom themselves and from their father Her chin lifted toward the carousel But Im also here because Im tired of turning my head Tired of pretending I dont see the evil around me She inhaled deeply And because Victor deserves justice for the life that was taken from him she said firmly And youre the one who can make that happen Arnie lifted his right hand to the back of the bench Sofia sensed the movement instantly Careful Sofia said Not here Arnie stiffened and lowered his arm I think we can help each other he said But there are questions I need answers toand I believe youre the only one who can answer them Silence Arnie tipped his head back slightly thinking Tell me he said at last how did you get to this point The needles resumed their steady work Would I be correct Sofia said that when you worked a big story at the paper getting the backstory was a critical step in your process Notebook already in hand Arnie flipped to a clean page and wrote _Backstory_ across the top Yes Its how you put things in context How you make sense of what transpired Exactly Sofia said She paused as Arnie noticed the next group of carousel riders loadingchildren darting around looking for an open animal Fate destiny chancewhatever you want to call itI ended up in Boston in 1993 Arnie flinched A graybearded schnauzer had latched onto his right trouser leg nose pressed hard inhaling with determination The leash snapped tight but the dog didnt budge Sorrysorry a twentysomething woman said juggling two other leashes pulling the opposite way First day walking her Mitziecome on Mitzie released him immediately leaning back in for another deep sniff as the woman hauled her away arms briefly tangled in nylon Arnies pencil had stopped midstroke I missed that he said quietly without turning Can you start again Of course Sofia said A beat I was twentyone she continued Crying on the phone to my mother about my broken life I didnt want to go home I didnt know where else to turn I needed help A pause Arnie jotted a quick notethen leaned his shoulders into the back of the bench Uncle Billy to the rescue she went on He found me an apartment Got me a job at Luccios My guardian angel A soft laugh She examined the forestgreen sock shed been working on Okayangel is a stretch My mother had told me a few stories But you get the idea She let the sock rest in her lap and turned her attention to a pair of birds darting between the trees I met Shorty at Luccios Hard to miss him I was drawn to the badboy side of him A sharp caw cut the air A seagull swooped low over Arnies head forcing him to duck then landed on the far end of Sofias bench It immediately went after a tangle of longforgotten fries Sofia stopped midsentence The shadow of a long knitting needle flicking something off the bench rail crossed Arnies shoulder The bird hopped once irritated then lifted off He heard the metal click of needles being dropped into a bag as Sofia picked up where she left off Life around him felt exciting she said He was always pushing boundariesreaching for a little more Arnies pencil moved in quick fragmentsquestion marks underlines stars The shorthand hed always used to flag threads worth pulling later Within a year I was pregnant and we decided to get married Sofia said Once Bruno was born I changed She stopped Arnie heard the voice of a little girl coming from where Sofia was seated Nanny Nannydid you see me Silence Then the unmistakable sound of a childs confusion changing to fear Youre not A beat Mommy she cried Mommy EmmaIm right here Im so sorry the motherly voice said as she swooped up the crying child The back of Sofias head never moved After a moment she spoke again I changed A beat Shorty didnt He took bigger risks I focused on being a mother Her voice steadied And Billy made things easier for mehad me working the books so I didnt have to waitress anymore She paused Were cut from the same cloth Arnie He frowned slightly his head tilting side to side in quiet doubt I buried myself in my work she said Expected others to adjust to me I wanted another baby ThenboomDino I wanted control over my own world and Uncle Billy gave me that chance For a while I thought I was using Shorty to get where I wanted to go Her voice roughened But then the walls closed in Shorty wanted more He started aligning himself with Billys wifeMarion He went rogue Secretive Took the badboy act to another level She lowered her head When I see pictures of trophy wives standing beside powerful menperfect hair perfect smile dead eyesI see myself A beat A gilded cage Her head dipped further And a gilded cage is still a cage No way out The sound of needles clicking resumed with renewed purpose So I decided to break the bonds the only way I could I got proactive Collected insurance Compromising thingspictures documents Ammunition Enough for me Enough for the boys Then more firmly And then it happened Billy told me he was worried about Shorty About things hed noticed He asked if I knew anything The needles paused As Arnie wrote _Billy approached Sofia for intel_ in his notebook a sudden whirring cough tore through the air A leaf blower roared to life on the path in front of him dust lifting as the maintenance worker swept the nozzle back and forth The noise swallowed everything It surged lingeredthen moved on fading with the workers steps You still there Arnie asked quietly No response He hesitated just long enough to feel the pull to turn Then Sofia spoke again as if the question had never been asked I had to make a choice she said uncertain at first Then her voice set And I chose my side Arnie nudged up the brim of his hat and tilted his face toward the sky thinking When was this he asked March of 94 I dont remember the exact date A pause I remember the moment The knitting stopped He looked up again and saw the yellow and green scarf dip down as if reaching for something below Her head popped back up a foldersized envelope now in one of her hands He squinted his eyes to get a better look I was alone in the back room going through receipts Billy came in from the kitchen with a stack of folders I remember it like yesterday Her breathing picked up He didnt have anyone to talk to No one was around He just started unloading Said Youre family Sofy All Ive got She coughed waited a beat then continued He set the folders down in front of me All kinds of documents One black accounting binder And he said Sofyhows your math Your mother said you took accounting That true As she spoke Arnie heard the envelope seal opened and the rustling of papers Shorty was off doing something with Marion The warm April sun vanished behind a passing cloud In the carts smeared window Arnie caught Sofias head liftthen a couple drifted into her space Sofia cleared her throatsharp impatient They murmured an apology and moved off still wrapped around each other Billy was having problems with herMarion she said Suspicions about the business accounts He asked me to go through them Keep my eyes and ears open Dont say a word to anyone Her voice hardened Not even Shorty I was background scenery People said things around me like I wasnt there Underestimated Arnie felt something coming through from the bench behind him poke his thigh He looked down and saw a white envelope with the top edge of a photo sticking out He picked it up and slid the photo out A picture speaks a thousand words Summer of 93 she said Arnie lifted the photo closer Dont Sofia warned No turning No standing She continued with a softer tone One LLC kept showing up on city contract invoices Arnie soaked it in Shorty grinning wide stood on the deck of a fishing boat beside a massive bluefin tuna hanging upside down Three bearded men in yellow slickers framed the scene like a seasoned crew On the other side of the fish stood Patrick OSullivan beer raised in salute Painted on the stern in elegant script _City Treasure_ Silence Behind him the knitting resumedsoft steady clicks Arnie looked away then back again as if checking his own vision He cleared his throat Let me make sure Ive got this right he said carefully In 94 you helped Billy uncover city contracts being routed through an LLCCity Treasurecoordinated by OSullivan and Shorty The needles clicked away like a metronome Billy caught wind of what was happening and wanted OSullivan exposed A confirming mmmhmm rose over Arnies shoulder He continued Victor was carrying those records to me the night he diedand mailed a set to you as insurance Arnies voice steadied as the pieces locked together But Shortyworking with Marionintercepted him Had Victor killed Then planted forged documents that framed Campbell instead He swallowed And I was played Arnie slammed his notebook shut pencil in place That cleared OSullivan Got him out of City Hall Gave him a clean path forward A beat And now Arnie said thirty years later He exhaled like the sentence tasted bad Hes running for president The sound of yarn being tugged and a low hum was all he heard Then hes always run for something Arnie reopened his notebook staring at the words And Shortys still clearing the way Thats what he does remove obstacles she said Arnie looked away and watched a park groundskeeper emptying garbage from an overflowing bin And Sandra Reilly Arnie added thinking it through a family run campaign Arnie felt a firmer envelope poke through the back of the bench And theres more she said Anything else in there spark your thoughts Arnie set the photo on his lap lifted the envelope and pulled out the documents He fanned them open Contracts Bills of lading Delivery logs Then he stopped There it was A copy of his original unedited Beacon Harborlight articleunfinished In his own handwriting along the margin _waiting source confirmation ASAP_ Behind it photocopies of his reporters notes His stomach dropped Arnies hands trembled and then gripped with enough force to wrinkle the pages Where the hell did my personal notes come from How did you get these Shortys desk Sofia said One night I walked in while he had the lockbox out There was an unexpected delivery He stepped out of the room and I A strong gust of wind ruffled her head scarf Once it cleared she resumed I took photos I didnt understand what I had until later Only way he got them was from someone at _The Beacon_ he said slowly someone who has been helping bury this the whole time Coming into focus now Sofia asked Arnie leaned back the carousel music drifting through the air between them This isnt just about one murder He paused Its a thirtyyear conspiracyone thats now targeting the White House Arnie pulled the papers all the way out and started skimming through When Charlie passed you the black glove when we visited you at Luccios you reacted like youd been slapped in the face No response Im sure youre aware those gloves were worn by Lazzaro Family drivers and became the binding symbol for The Brotherhood We know your boys went directly to The Beacon after our visit Who did they meet with Cant help you there sorry I dont know Sofia replied I passed the glove on to Shorty and asked him what it was about Got his standard answer you focus on the restaurant dont concern yourself Arnie tried another tack The Brotherhood calls Victors killer The Editor You ever heard that name Needles paused as if they contained the answer Again sorry No idea Thinking it through out loud Arnie shared But someone at the paper had access to my notes To Victors intel To the forged documents The oldfashioned popcorn cart erupted in popping sounds as Sofia considered her next words Shorty used to meet someone Usually during my busiest time dinner prep Always offsite Hed come back with papers and put them in a lock box Accelerating her words and before you ask no I never saw what was in the lockbox and didnt have a key I assumed it was Billys or Marions business Sofias needles slowed now that I think of it the meetings slowed down after Victors death and then ended altogether after Vinnie died Until three weeks ago I saw a cryptic note She swallowed Ed 530 D Shortys not one to keep a calendar Sofia went quiet for a beatthen continued Anyway thats when I sent the envelope to Danny Why Danny Arnie asked while tucking the pages back in the envelope and picking his notebook back up and flipping to his Sofia Questions page Sofia raised her knitting for inspection Insurance With Billy gone I needed to act Danny was loyal to Victor and Billy I knew when he saw the material hed try to locate you Why do you think I pushed Sandra to bring Danny on as OSullivans driver she asked with an air of flaunting intelligence Informants all around us Nice move Arnie replied Arnie glanced down at his notebook tapped the pencil against a question mark and finally asked it The Brotherhood says Vinnie P found receipts with _The Editor_ on them Danny never mentioned that No Sofia said softly She stopped knitting her head lowering Vinnie was a good man Always friendly Always asking how I was A pause Not in a flirty way Everyone liked Vinnie Arnie dragged the eraser down the page to the next question Were you there the night Vinnie died Sofia drew a breath through her nose holding it Yes Her voice tightened What happened that night wasnt right What do you think happened Arnie asked It was ruled an accident Any reason to believe otherwise I was waitressing their table Weekly gathering of the boys holiday festive atmosphere Vinnie had just come back from seeing Billy Her voice quivered The food was up I was bringing it out when Shorty pointed at the red pepper flake shaker She swallowed That was the signal I sprinkled it on Vinnies calamari A beat Five minutes later Vinnie was dead And the shaker was gone The needles started up again fast and furiouslike pistons firing Ive been haunted by that moment ever since anger bleeding into her words I resented Shorty from that day forward She inhaled sharply Thats when I knew I was in too deep The coroner was on the family payroll They called it an accident Arnie shot back How could Billy let that happen In his own place Because the doctor was on Marions payrollnot Billys Sofia said And Shorty convinced Billy that Vinnie had been skimming money Her voice dropped And besides they saidit was an accident Did you tell Billy Arnie asked The needles froze with a grinding click knocking together with a nervous jittering noise I couldnt Her voice barely carried If Billy knew Shorty had known there could only be one source She swallowed hard Me And I was the one who laced the food Her words faded swallowed by the laughter and music spilling from the carousel Please the plea breaking through Help me save my boys from the road Shorty is pushing them down They had nothing to do with what happened back then Theyre good boys The words sounded rehearsedfragile A mother grasping Theyve been strongarming Cindy Cane Arnie said They transported the bomb that nearly killed me Theyre choosing this He shook his head Theyll have to come cleanon their own Its not my place to shield them Theres hope for one Sofia murmured How can you be so sure Arnie asked With a strong voice because I raised them both And somewhere along the way I got through to one of them A pause I just dont know if it will be enough And the other The other is his fathers son the sound of dropping needles echoing over Arnies shoulder The fabric rustled and he heard a scarred voice continue Dont go she barely whispered Im sorrywhat Youre walking into a death trap Sofia said Dont go Youre feeding the beastand thats what he is An evil beast Her voice trembled Ive seen that look before The one hes had these past few days The angers boiling over No response You have what you need to take him down To stop OSullivan Take the win she pleaded Arnie shook his head his jaw tightening I cant rest until Victors death is answered for Simple as that His voice hardened Ill come after them with everything I have But unless you can tell me who _The Editor_ isand prove itI know what I have to do next And it isnt hiding He paused Dont you see that Youve provided a piece An evidentiary piece but I still need a name Only carousel music answered him Children laughing The rise and fall of painted animalsgoing round and round He wrote one wordBEACONthen slid the photo behind the notes closed the notebook and kept his hand on it Sofia Nothing Arnie turned The bench behind him was empty All that remained on the bench was a neatly folded pair of forestgreen socks Chapter 44 Out in the Open _Copley Square Boston Public Library_ Across town while Arnie was staring at a bench holding nothing more than a pair of woolen socksEvelyn Royce and Phylis rode the escalator up from Copley Square T Station With Evelyn in the lead Royce called out as he steadied Phylis walker you go on ahead Ev Just tell us where to meet you in the library Evelyn grabbed the shoulder strap of her satchel firmly in her hand and spoke over her shoulder Washington Roomsecond floormicrofiche Then swiveling around to see Phylis starting to push forward pretty sure they have wheelchairs available for use inside With that she hurried across Boylston and up the stairs of the Boston Public Library before Royce and Phylis hit the cobblestone Phylis shot Royce a look dont even suggest pushing me around I want my picture standing on the stairs by a lions head Royce shook his head and smiled You are a bad ass Phylis Damn straight she replied I was planning a StairMaster workout anyway she said as the pedestrian crosswalk chirping accompanied their passage Hey I need you to help me find some medical articles about my condition while were here she said as they paused after reaching the curb Just want copies Royce pulled her water bottle out of the walker basket and handed it over He replied of course as she took a swallow and started moving towards the front steps Twentyfive minutes and one lions head selfie later they entered the Washington Room and made their way to Evelyn who was camped out with ten microfiche boxes two machines and a clipboard clutched in her left hand Behind her an eightfoot table with documents stacked in neat piles yellow postits interleaved You look right at home Royce said as he ushered a flushed Phylis to a seat at the table Without looking up Evelyn motioned Royce over Royce peeked over her shoulder as she sped through images of newspaper pages and asked what are you looking at Beacon articles from late 1993 early 1994 Eyes still focused on the scrolling screen she pointed to her clipboard that listed out dates of interest Royce glanced over at the list then responded with a resigned sigh how can I help She pulled her head back and pointed over to the neighboring microfiche station Review that film Look through articles about city hall affiliated construction projects ground breaking planning funding press conferences See if anything related to our investigation catches your eye Royces jaw dropped youre kidding right thats needle in the haystack stuff Evelyn tilted her head down and in a firm voice responded Ive marked the dates located the film She took a breath exhaled then continued I just need you to look through these for me for Arnie ok Royce raised his hands looked back at Phylis who gave him an encouraging nod and settled into the seat assigned Within ten minutes of scrolling microfiche Royce heard the sounds of what could only be described as a repeating low grade Bronx cheer rising behind him He looked over to see Phylis with her head on the table fast asleep He smiled and got back to work Evelyn continued scrolling through microfiche with precision stopping to review articles make notes check off the clipboard An hour passed and not a word was spoken until Phylis coughed Then coughed again louder Royce turned she motioned him over What he asked as he leaned in Lets goMedical Reference She held up a piece of paper with handwritten AMA and New England Journal of Medicine article references Make an excuse to break away She started to rise as Royce walked over to Evelyn and looking over her shoulder said Phylis needs my assistance for a few minuteswell be right back Evelyn barely acknowledged as she brought up the next article and leaned in Royce began to turn and then something on the screen caught his eyea picture of a Seaport Development groundbreaking with the typical lineup of dignitaries with shovels Well we know the pair of them dont we Evelyn shook her head as if coming out of a trance and refocused What do you mean Shorty Caprinis hard to miss Royce said as he raised his hand and pointed to the picture under the cover And next to himwearing the Phillips Academy baseball cap Familiar A loud throat clearing broke Royce from his memory trance He turned back to see Phylis holding up the folded paper He pushed back and said Well be right back Pausing again I know that face Photo on a wall somewhere Hmm Im sure a guttural sound this time accompanied by a piercing glare Itll come to mewell be back shortly you good Royce said while pushing his chair in Evelyn paused wrote Phillips in her notebook with her lookintothislater asterisk then waved him away and zeroed in on the article in front of her Royce withdrew helped Phylis up and they headed out of the room one walker thump at a time Evelyn scrolled on and then suddenly squinted her eyes and tilted her head up Her eyes widened as she rewound and looked at the groundbreaking picture once again zooming in on the background crowd She scanned through her notes and there it was next to OSullivan attended Phillps Andover Then zoomed closer on the face wearing the ball cap She pulled her smartphone and waited as the Academy site loaded painfully slow A low battery mode prompt flashed on her screen she clicked ignore She searched for Patrick OSullivan and found four with only one graduating in the early 70s Clicking on his name brought up a login screen Evelyn scrolled and saw a photo gallery prompt with the option to select years going back to 1947 She started in 1970 and when she got to 1971 she froze Patrick OSullivan class of 71 arm in arm with the person in the news photoDebate Club Mock Trial Big smiles holding a sign _Outthinking Outsmarting them all_ Low battery prompt 10 flashed up Again she clicked ignore Evelyn she went back to the Microfiche looking for photo ops with OSullivan in late 93 Then after searching through public records and social media from her phone the picture became clearer She pulled her notebook and quickly wrote _Phillips connection inside job_ Then glancing at her smartphone saw the time 1245 pm The red bar in the top right showed 3 battery life She held the phone in one hand as she rifled through her bag with the otherdesperately searching for a charger cable An exasperated damn accompanied an empty hand which then worked the phone screen She clicked on Arnie and raised the phone to her earrocking in her chair with each unanswered ring Fivethen voice mail She started to leave a voicemail then changed her mind 2 She clicked off without leaving a message and quickly fingered through contacts selecting Charlie Come on Charlie Evelyn encouraged Two rings and then Charlie came on the line 1 How goes the research No time for that Charlie you have to stop and the line went dead as the phone screen blackened Evelyn stood now gripping the phone like a stress release ball She turned eyes scanning the room and then at her watch 1248pm She picked up her notebook ripped out a page and hurriedly scrawled line over line _Battery dead_ _Gone to Beacon Archives_ _Collect my things_ She plucked a halfwarm photocopy of the microfiche article off the printer and was out the door in a rush __wadded paper baton in hand Arnie glanced down at his watch as he navigated City Hall Plaza ready to cross Cambridge Street in front of City Center 1235pm With a gap in traffic he opted to jaywalk and once across pushed through the front entrance of The Dubliner Before the hostess could open her mouth he inquired Manager He followed her eyes and without waiting for an answer walked over to the bar to an exasperated man towel over his shoulder working the taps with little success He called down to another fellow on his back working the lines damn still no pressure __switch connections on that one Excuse me Arnie said as he approached and immediately got a scowl look in return Buddy not a good time right now Take a seat someone will be with you shortly came the frustrated reply Did you tighten it all the way he said as he bent down to get a look for himself Arnie continued anyway You the manager Not here to get served Im here to settle a bill The head lifted back up as Arnie reached for his wallet opening it up to show cash in hand The manager raised a finger then pulled the Sam Adams tap Success Beer flowed easily and he tipped a glass underneath to ensure a good pour resulted He flipped the tap Thanks Richie Lookin good now He pulled the towel wiped his hands and reached for a black book Sorry about that Account name he asked with his fingers poised on the books alphabet tabs Not sure Arnie replied I was in with Sean Cahill the other day and it was my turn to pick up the tab but he beat me to it Just want to settle up The manager thumbed to the C tab opened the book and scanned down the account names with his forefinger He traced it a second time then said no one by that name sorry closing the book and putting it back over by the register Odd Arnie said The bartender definitely knew him and signaled no problem Got a picture Not on me Hes early 60s stocky greying hair thin at the top works over at The Beacon Seems like hes a regular here at quitting time Arnie finished waiting for a response Ah the manager said flicking the towel back over his shoulder Yay I know the guy Account isnt in his name Whose tab is it if you dont mind Arnie asked I just want to settle for the time I came in with him The manager waved him off and leaning into the bar arms at shoulder width he said Dont bother its a deep pocket llc Arnies phone rang He silenced it without looking at the caller He then pulled out two fifties put them on the bar side by side and asked do you know the name The manager smiled shook his head and said sorry above my pay grade Cant help you I can help you put those fifties to work if youd like some food and drink Arnie waited a beat and then pushed back from the bar leaving the cash behind No time Put it towards Cahills next tab Thanks for your time Arnie turned and exited the bar walking out to Pemberton Square__One Beacon dead ahead Arnie looked up at the huge Roman faced clock on the wall behind reception as he entered the One Beacon lobby 1259pm And there was Melissa Thomas standing next to the welcome desk a stack of folders piled next to her She gave a wry smile as Arnie approached punctual as ever Glad to see you are still in one piece after the gala scare She handed him a pen and pointed to the sign in sheet Thanks Was a memorable evening he said as he wrote his name and date in the registry He turned towards Melissa And thank you for being flexible today I didnt realize Sean was out and as I mentioned to Carson there are some city hall items I want to look through before submitting my piece Melissa nodded as she picked up her files Ever thorough __ even in retirement Impressive Arnie turned towards but before he could step away the receptionist pushed out a basket with a lanyard Sir standard protocol We need you to wear the badge while youre in the building and put all electronic devices in here He held up his flip phone Its harmless he said lifting it up The receptionist pointed to the tray No exceptions Itll be in good hands Arnie placed the phone in the tray and lifted his hands in surrender Melissa swept her free arm in the direction of the rear elevators Shall we Arnie followed her gesture and asked did Carson fill you in on the specific info Im looking for Cradling the folders as she walked she replied City Hall 1994 They reached the service elevator where she pressed the down button and pulled off the top page from her pile as they waited Heres a layout of the City Hall archives broken out by Year and Department she said as she handed him a clipboard with a black and white floor plan The door opened she stepped in and pressed B4Arnie followed I have a few things to file Ill drop you off and then come back for you at 3pm I was hoping for a little more time Arnie responded as the door shut the floor lurched and the slow grind of the descent began She gave him a _dont bother_ look as they rode the rest of the way to the sounds of metallic friction The doors crept open and Melissa pressed forward without a wordthe tinny sound of motion sensor lights coming to life as they walked Three rights and a left Melissa approached a shelved caged area lined with mildewed boxes binders yellowed paper and outdated equipment from days long gone by She pulled a key opened the wired door and motioned Arnie in He stood on the threshold and surveyed the area Melissa pushed by pulled a metal chain and an overhead fluorescent light flickered and then burned yellow Cant remember the last time anyone was in here Ive wanted to junk all this but the city insists its historical and must be left to gather the dust of time she smirked as she motioned to the table With her free hand she pointed you can sit here The layout is your roadmap Arnie walked over to the metal table reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out the papers hed just received from Sofia laying them Ill leave you to it she said preparing to go Thenshe halted her gaze snagging on the photo on the table and the handwriting in the margins Melissa rocked momentarily then brushed past him to make her exit tightening her hold on the files she was carrying She looked back at the tableIll see you at 3 With that she walked off the echoing sound of her quickening footsteps drifting until the only sound left was the overhead fluorescent Arnie watched her depart then returned his attention to the room He pulled out his notebook and the envelope from Sofia setting them on the table He picked up the photo of Shorty and OSullivan squinting as he examined it Then placed it to the side picked up the room layout and started his search for city invoices Evelyn pushed through the One Beacon lobby doors at 122pm and made a beeline to The Beacon reception Flushed and winded she cleared her throat to get an attendants attention Excuse me before completing her sentence she raised a _give me a second_ finger Maam are you ok the receptionist said from the other side of the chest high mahogany counter Im fine thanks just catching my breath Evelyn replied Here came the reply as an arm extended with a plastic bottle of Poland Spring Evelyn twisted the cap and drank the water as if having just crossed the finish line of a 5K Thanks she said lifting the bottle in a toast gesture Is there something I can help you with Yes I was supposed to meet Arnie Price He has an Archives appointment Has he checked in Evelyn inquired You just missed him Reading from the log the receptionist continued Ms Thomas escorted him down to B4 about 22 minutes ago Sorry Im out of breath I couldnt break away in time Can you direct me to where I can meet him A warm smile a shake of the head Im sorry only authorized personnel can pass through came the response while pointing up to the sign directly above in large letters on the back wall You are welcome to wait out here in our reception area pointing to a bank of chairs set up in the atrium Glancing back down hes scheduled to check out at 3pm We have complimentary Coffee and Teathe Wifi password is posted if you want to surf while you wait But I really need to Evelyn was cutoff with a smile and firm no exceptions then with people queuing up the next words were a dismissive next Evelyn surveyed the area as she walked over to the waiting area and slumped into the first chair she came to facing the area she needed to navigate She twisted the cap and took another sip while sitting on the edge of the chair Within a minute she heard a pssst but chose to ignore it Then a louder firmer pssst She turned her head initially not registering who was making the noise Then she saw him Two seats down jeans legs crossed open newspaper hiding the upper body and face of the individual A black driving glove on his left hand He folded the paper down ever so slightly so she could see his face Maurice Can I be of some help he said casually What are you doing here was the best she could come up with Just keeping an eye out I drew Arnie he replied Evelyn started to move he flipped the paper back up and said Stay there Dont acknowledge me She settled back looking straight back to reception said I need to get to Arnie I have some important information that help with his search They wont let me through Can you help Care to share Theres no time she shot back Ah I see Distraction Give me thirty seconds You know what to do after that correct Thanks youre a life saver she said as she rose to which he replied its what I do And then before shed taken a step he followed with does Connie have a beau Put a good word in for me She smiled and kept her eyes forward He rose walked toward reception and within a minute reception was a beehive of activity Maurice turned just enough for her to catch the flick of his nose She made her move and within seconds was whisking down the archive basement stairs The heavy metal door with large red B4 stenciled letters creaked open as Evelyn leaned her shoulder in with considerable effort As she stepped out a single light shone directly overhead The rest of the floor was pitch black except for a distant shimmer She set her sights in that direction and began to walklights coming on as she went revealing a catacomb of storage areas Arnie heard footsteps approaching as he was standing flipping through files towards the back of the caged area He rolled his wrist and saw it was only 142pm Evelyn what are you doing here he said with unhidden surprise And how did you get down here She entered the cage and couldnt help herself a person can get black lung down here I see why they limit the visit time Then lifting papers in her hand she said I found something in the library microfiche that I think is relevant to your search Damn phone battery diedand you didnt pick up She walked around the table to a free area alongside Arnies notebook and papers She spread the pages out pressing her palms down to remove the creases Evelyn you shouldnt be here Let me show you this then Ill go But two hands are better than one and I do know how to navigate places like this she said lifting her hands Ok but be quick I met with Sofia and she insists this is a setup We need to get you out of here Evelyn pushed the papers toward Arnie and got to the point This is an article for October 19supthsup 1993 at a site ground breaking Campbell OSullivan the usual officials with shovels Look in the backgroundShorty Caprini And next to him In the Phillips Academy ballcap Look familiar Arnie leaned in for a closer look as she continued I didnt recognize the person at first Some real estate purchases kids attending top of the line prep schools Papers dont pay that well do they Arnie reached over and picked up the deepsea photo from Sofia and set it side by side with the news article Evelyn pointed to the yellow slickered crew mate in the back row Thats him She said pointing her finger at the smiling bearded bloke with beer raised high One of the properties shows an LLC as a lien holder Youll never guess the nameCity Treasure Evelyn finished With trembling hands Arnie picked up the photo for a closer look His eyes flared All he could say was Damn Suddenly the lights outside the cage went dark Unhurried footsteps approached and then halted Heavy breathing overtook the hum of the cage light where Arnie and Evelyn stood exposed They turned as an arm extended from the darkness a shiny revolver in hand Chapter 45 Embers of Time _One Beacon Basement Archives_ With trembling hands Melissa Thomas stepped into the flickering light She raised her other hand to grasp the gun with both hands in an attempt to steady herself Her forefinger quivered on the edge of the trigger Why couldnt you just leave it alone Arnie Melissa said as she circled at the back of the cage opposite the frozen figures Arnie was the first to move ever so slightly He held his hands palm out Melissa take it slow Were no threat to you Please He paused waiting for a response He continued softening and slowing his cadence Lower the gun Lets sit Arnie gestured toward the table slowly dropping his hands The hands and gun shook No Then waving the gun barrel in short jerky motions You sit She tilted her head down and rubbed her right eye with her right shoulder chest heaving Careful Evelyn said in a soothing voice as she followed the command Showing open hands she reached for the closest chair back Keeping her eyes up looking at Melissa Evelyn slid it back and eased down Please put the gun down Theres nothing worth dying for here Arnie followed Evelyns lead and sat He very slowly reached over to one of the pages hed brought in with him Let Evelyn leaveyou and I chat he said looking over at Evelyn and then back to Melissa Dont make things worse Shes not part of this Melissas eyes were glazed over Ignoring Arnies comment she said Why couldnt you just let things stay buried like everything around you She dropped her left hand and wildly pointed around the cage with the gun This is where history comes to die she said as she turned Why do you have to dig it back up Somewhere beyond the shelves something electrical clickedfollowed by sparks shooting out in all directions She plopped down the barrel of the gun striking the metal table top with an echoing thud Both Evelyn and Arnie instinctively cringed and ducked their heads No shot firedbut a whirring mechanical sound reverberated through the cage Evelyn drew a deep nasal breath With heads still lowered she looked over at Arnie with worry in her eyes and mouthed the word smoke As they raised their heads Melissa shook hers and said I loved that man Then using the gun as a pointer directed at Arnie and you got him killed You have us at a disadvantage here Melissa Arnie replied Can you let go of the gun Were no threat over here Who are you talking about What happened since you dropped me off Evelyn saw anger creep into Melissas eyes as her grip on the gun tightened She motioned to Arnie with her palms to slow down Then with a consoling voice It was Victor wasnt it Pause A man you lovedtaken from you Melissas grip loosened Tears welled Her lower lip trembled Arnies expression shiftedgenuine surprise breaking through Without looking away from Melissa Evelyn moved slowly toward her bag She eased it open and drew out a small pack of tissues freeing one with deliberate care May I Evelyn asked tilting the tissue slightly into view The gun followed the motion Melissa tracked every inch The barrel wavered but stayed trained Her fingers tightenedEvelyn stopped Melissa tried to swipe at her cheek with the heel of her shoulder the gun dipping only a fraction Here Evelyn said softly inching forward again A beat Melissa shut her eyes drew in a shaky breaththen gave the slightest nod Evelyn slid the packet across the metal table Tell us about him she said gently About you and Victor The table groaned as Melissa lowered the gun setting it flatstill angled toward them She picked up the tissue but didnt use it Just stared at it in her hand I was trying to protect him she said I thought I was helping Arnie inhaled to speak Evelyn shot him a quick lookwait Melissa dabbed once at her cheek A faint fragile smile appeared We met at City Hall I was verifying research for his Harborlight piece She glanced at Arnie Your piece Victor was in the lobby I ran straight into him Papers everywhere Her smile flickered wider I know A bad movie clich But it happened He helped me gather everything Asked me for coffee I said yes Her shoulders lowered slightly We were together every free minute after that Three months Every minute The smile faded She tossed the used tissue aside and reached for the gun again Her fingers wrapped around the grip lifting it back into her hands Then you took him away Her jaw hardened He said he just needed to finish something Tie up loose ends Then wed start our life A swallow I didnt know he was your source Not until it was too late She nudged the stack of papers on the table with the muzzle Those notes The ones you brought in I never understood why he needed them Arnie saw his opening I assume you knew what line of work Victor was in and that he drove for Billy Lazzaro Melissa reflexively shifted her eyes up I didnt ask Didnt want to know the details Just knew I wanted to be with him Then why did you shoot him with that gun Arnie asked as Evelyn closed her eyes and grimaced What Melissa shouted and placed both hands back on the gun pointing it at Arnie Outside the cage the padding of footsteps casually approached filled the air Arnie and Evelyn looked over to see a hand grip the cage chain at the entrance about five feet up The body soon followed filling the entrance MelissaOh Melissa what have you done A pause Put that thing away Melissa stood gun in trembling hands and backed up to the other side of the cage where she had sightlines on everyone The figure with arms folded leaned unbothered against the door frame Youve gone and ruined a perfectly good day I had planned away from the office Theres no reason Arnie should be down here today Then turning his head toward Arnie is there Arms folded Whats with you Arnie Most people look for their sunset in retirement You seem intent on skipping retirement altogether and joining Claire Arnie clenched his hands under the table as he took a deep breath You always had a flair for words Sean Then exhaling and leaning back Butthats why Im the reporter and youre the editor Arnie reached for the photo as he spoke Has Melissa been getting a cut all these years from City Treasure Then lifting it up for Sean to see nice boat by the way Is that yours or Shorty Caprinis Melissa shifted the gun towards Arnie what are you talking about Arnie shrugged his shoulders then looked over at Cahill You want to tell her Oh I picked up our tab from the last round of drinks Was told that the deep pockets LLC had it covered but I like to clear my debts Cahill squinted to see what Arnie was holding He smiled Nice catch Put up quite a fight How come you werent up front for the picture Then shifting his eyes back to the photo Arnie said just one of Shortys cleanup crew eh With teeth gritted and so only Arnie could hear Evelyn said What are you doing Arnie spoke undeterred returning his gaze to Cahill Does Melissa even know what her part in all of this was Pause but without giving Cahill a chance to respond he followed with and that Victor was expendable Melissa instinctively swiveled the gun pointing it towards Cahill hands shaking What is he talking about No response Sean What the hell is he talking aboutVictor expendable Calm down Mel Hes just trying to rile you up Tell me Melissa stiffenedgun outstretched What happened to Victor Take a breath Cahill said as he began to ease his way towards Melissa Pointing towards Arnie he continued this is the man that you complained was holding you back never gave you credit didnt show any trust in you Two more slow steps and youre going to throw it away based on what comes out of his mouth Melissas face slackened appearing to be unsure what to believe Cahill crept closer Stop Melissa said as she locked back in on Cahillfinger now back on the trigger Why did Victor have to die Cahill froze then anger visibly flushed his face as he raised an arm and pointed at Arnie Because that man was going to ruin everything Pulsing his hand with finger extended those bonus dollars you were gettingwhere did you think they were coming from His voice firmed Victor was passing him information that was set to bring us down Exasperated Cahill continued Victor was being paid to look the other way and keep Billy in the dark He swept his arms over towards Arnie as he spoke He got cold feet and switched sides Victor made a choice Glaring at Arnie the wrong choice Spittle flew He knew the rules Tried to change them Shaking his head lower lip raised turning to stare straight into Melissas eyewe couldnt let that happen Cahill tried to step closer Melissa stiffened No she screamed Seeing his advance she shouted Not one more step Dont you see Cahill responded with a sympathetic voice as he leaned back hands raised with palms open Victor sealed his fate He had to be stopped He was the informant that Arnie didnt trust to tell you about He followed up Arnie Arnie is the reason Victor had to die She shook her head No I thought it was mistake That a rival family got the wrong guy Melissas eyes widened as she shook and stuttered You Pause as she tried to breathe You killed Victor Melissas arms sagged the muzzle dipping Cahill raised his eyebrows in acknowledgement and before Melissa could process what was happening lurched and forcefully pulled the gun from her hands He grabbed her by the shoulder and pushed her over to where Arnie and Evelyn were still seated She fell sprawled on the floor face down Youve always been unstable I dont know how Ive put up with you all these years With the gun now in Cahills hands and trained on the group he walked over to an open moldy bankers box rifled around and pulled out a roll of grey duct tape He slid it across the table Get up he said No response Now he commanded Tape them to their chairs Then to Arnie and Evelyn dont worry it wont be for long He smiled Smell that Its the sweet smell of time Smoldering Waving the gun now get a move on Hands and feet to the chairs Melissa raised to her knees put one hand on the side of the table to lift up and reached over with her other to pick up the tape She mouthed sorry as she approached Evelyn It didnt take long until both were secured Cahill strode around the back of the table He inspected her work pressing the tape firmly in place around limbs to ensure it met his satisfaction He stood walked over to the empty chair beside Melissa Now you he instructed sit He waved the gun in a menacing fashion making it very clear what she needed to do Cahill picked up the tape with his free hand and using fingers of his gun hand he pulled out the tape ripping it off with his teeth Melissa resisted but Cahill would have none of it pushing the gun barrel to her throat Stay still he said quietly Or this gets simpler She frozetears of fear in her eyes Cahill tore out more strips and once he had her secure he pressed his face close You fucked this up Mel She spat at him Cahill wiped his face with a handkerchief revealing amusement tore one final strip of tape and pressed it over her mouth Im exhausted by this he said So much for my day off He stood and walked to the back shelves All this history who needs it We all need to look forward dont you agree Cahill said as he pulled boxes down tipping their paper contents to the floor The smoke was thickening as flames started to show through the cage wiring Too bad the sprinkler system isnt working on this level he offered Budgets A short laugh Never a priority since Ive been here He tied the handkerchief over his nose and mouth freeing up both hands He tipped another box Paper fanned outward Flame took it instantly Arnie coughed Let them go Cahill Im the one Arnies words dissolved into hacking Cahill backed to the cage door Sorry Arnie no can do With a huge grin Cahill couldnt resist I guess we wont be getting that last Harborlight piece from you Oh well more space for coverage of OSullivans presidential campaign He pulled the screen door closed and locked it He looked in and said at least your last moments are with friends Cahill glanced at his watch look at the time Ive got another appointment He smiled Say hi to Claire for me Then he turned and walked away as casually as he had arrived The smoke lowered Dense Pressing Fire crackling on just the other side of the shelving as Arnie and Evelyn both struggled to loosen themselves from the duct tape bindings Im so sorry Evelyn I never meant for it to get to this Arnie said through coughing breaths as they continued to try to free themselves Testing the tape with every limb Evelyn lowered her headnose down No time for sorry Turn in your chair Backtoback she said as she pivoted metal legs scraping against the cement floor She maneuvered into position and found Arnies hands and tried ripping at the tape With smoke thickening further she said hold hands Air better at floor Arnie complied Tip left They rocked once twicethen fell to the ground on their sides shoulders absorbing the brunt of impact Evelyn groaned Then hacked with a mucous sound You ok Arnie asked Keep trying Keep trying came the weak reply Their hands fumbled and slowed with each passing second Weve got to but Arnie didnt have the breath to finish Arnie gently reached for Evelyns hands and simply held them No fight No tension He found her hands Held them He squeezed slightlythen his hands went limp Evelyn coughed and with chest heaving squeezed back Keep trying she uttered before her body went lax The overhead light blinked once then went black Evelyns hands fell away from Arnies as paper embers drifted and settled around them like fallen snow Chapter 46 Convergence _One Beacon Basement Archives B4_ The loud pulsing whoosh of fire extinguishers filled the air colliding with the earpiercing alarm at full throttle Handheld torch spotlights scanned the cage from the outsidepicking up silhouettes lying on the floor Over herenow Franco shouted through his blackened smoke hood Metal shears bit into the cage Sparks flew Within seconds a jagged opening gave way Franco and Richards squeezed through palms pressed to their hoods to ensure they didnt catch on cut wire Flashlights from outside focused on three motionless bodies Maurice passed the oxygen masks through Then he went back to hacking at the wire The pair moved to the bodies checking vitals as they strapped on oxygen masks Richards grabbed Francos sleeve with one hand and pointed to the duct tape with the othersignaling hed take care of Evelyn Franco looked back over his shoulder to see Maurice continuing to shear at the wire No way for bodies and chairs to make it through Franco nodded Richards was already stripping away tape Evelyns body jerked as air hit her lungs Arnie remained limp With Evelyn now free of the chair Richards picked her up and headed out through the door frame Maurice seeing that Franco was still working to undo Arnies restraints rushed in and picked up one end of the chair and Arnies legs Franco held the other end of the chair and Arnies upper torso as they rushed him out Fifty feet down the corridor they caught up with Richards Evelyn lay on her side as oxygen flowed Her chest rose and fell with each breath eyes still closed They placed Arnie on his side nearby Franco put his finger to Arnies neck A pulse Faintbut a definite pulse Seeing Franco at Arnies side Richards moved fastscooped the papers off the table stuffed them into the open satchel slung the strap over his shoulder Then he was back at Arnies side while Franco worked Im here Come on Arnie come on Franco pleaded as he leaned close and ensured Arnies oxygen mask was securely in place He tipped Arnies head back lifted his chin Nothing Franco reached into his pocket and yanked out a portable CPR mask as he started to roll Arnie on his backthen Arnie convulsed coughing hard Franco shuddered a deep release he couldnt hold in as he adjusted Arnie back to his siderecovery position Ive got to go back Franco said as he gave Arnie a shoulder squeeze Alastair is here with you Breathe easy With that Franco rose and raced back to the cage Black gloved hands continued to shoot extinguisher foam as alarms pounded Franco knelt next to Melissa No fog inside her mask Fingers to necknothing No time to transport her He grabbed the portable CPR mask from his pocket rolled her onto her back raised his own hood to free his mouth and placed the CPR mask on her face He sealed the mask and breathed Her chest rose and fell with each rescue breath No pulse He followed with chest compressionsthen paused No response Nothing He started again Shortly after he resumed chest compressionsshe convulsed He immediately pulled his own hood back down and replaced her oxygen mask He cradled Melissa and carried her out EMTs were already huddled with Arnie and Evelyn as Franco gently lowered Melissa down Thanks Ill take it from here one of the crouched EMTs called out over his shoulder Franco acknowledged and stepped back Richards could be heard on his twoway radio Need an APB out on Sean Cahill Armed and dangerous Exited One Beacon ten minutes ago on foot Richards clicked off turned and stuck out his hand Good on ya mate Franco took it Richards tightened his grip for just an extra beat Cracking work Then Richards was already on the move _Luccios Restaurant Back Office_ Pavarotti belted out _Nessun dorma_ as Shorty leaned back in his leather chair feet up a whiskey glass in one handwaving an imaginary baton with the other Closed eyes Huge smile Cash from this weeks take piled in front of him Ping The phone vibration rippled across the desk He opened one eye and glanced down at the phonereached out and picked it up Shorty swung his feet off the desk kicking some cash to the floor in the process He stood clicked on the message and glared MT _hes here w handwritten documents I pinched in 94 what do we do_ Shorty threw his arm down looked to the ceiling as he paced behind the desk His smile vanished replaced by a tightening intensity He pivoted Walked to the end of the daishis little platform above all who enteredand sent a oneword replyCONTAIN Flipping to another contact he pressed new messageurgent _FIX THE SITUATIONNOW_ Shorty bent down and picked up the cash bundles from the floor and put them back with the others He walked over to the couch and snatched the black leather duffle Without hesitation he returned to the desk unzipped the top and with both hands shoveled the cash wads into the bag He walked over to the office door wedged it six inches and shouted Bruno get in here Shorty returned to his desk while standing he unlocked and rifled through the top drawer pulling out passports papers and a black pouch Yay dad whats up Bruno said as he sauntered into the office We need to take a road trip now Shorty said in a commanding tone Grab your brother One bag each Pull the car out back in 20 Bruno looked up at Shorty towering over himstunned What gives Do what the fuck I tell youno questions Shorty replied and got back to clearing out the top desk drawer Shorty looked up to see Bruno frozen in place He raised his arm pointed to the door Now Bruno turned and left without another word Shorty sat and pulled out the side desk drawers flicking through hanging folders occasionally pulling something out and adding to a pile Within fifteen minutes he slammed the door closed ready to move on to his last task Luciano now sang the lament of _E lucevan le stelle_ as Shorty walked over to the back wall swung the Tuscany print to expose the safe He punched in the combination twisted the handle and opened the door Before he could reach into the safe he was startled A figure emerged from the backoffice entrance Going somewhere Shorty Shorty whipped around What the hell are you doing here Good to hear youve at least kept some of the past here at Luccios Pavarotti always was one of my favorites Billy Not what it looks like Pause as he looked at the black bag then the safe Making a bank run Sure you are Billy motioned to the couch Sit Shorty Lets have a talk Shorty looked at the couch then back at Billy Cant You need to leave I guess you didnt hear Then gesturing around the room this place is now mine again Including whats in the safe in front of you I dont have time for this Turning back to the safe Go visit with Sofia Ive got things to do Billy raised his voice youre wasting your time trying to get away The Feds will hunt you down Looking at his recently manicured fingernails youve got nowhere to run Shorty reached into the safe and pulled out a Glock He pointed it at Billy while pulling contents out with the otherdropping handfuls of cash into the bag eyes on Billy Youre just an old man with a Florida tan a smile creeping back onto Shortys face I told Marion to watch out for you Billys face tightened and that pulling you out of Long Island was one of the biggest mistakes I ever made Shorty scoffed If it werent for me youd have been six feet under long ago He continued to pull strapped cash out of the safe the bag nearly filled You mean like where you put Victor Billy shot back Hey I didnt pull the trigger Shorty replied as he took the last of the cash out and bent down to close the bag eyes and gun still on Billy You think I dont know you called the shot Billy said as he started to move towards Shorty fire in his eyes Whoa Shorty warned pulling the Glock slide back Why Shorty What threat was he Ask your ex came Shortys response He reached down lifted the bag walked over and rested it on the corner of the desk Shorty towered over Billy as he spat out why was I ever afraid of you Billy ignored Shortys words And Vinnie P That was you too Billy stared up at Shorty and raised a pointed finger What a coward you are Shorty grinned I didnt kill Vinnie Ask your niece and he laughed as he looked up at the clock The sound of street sirens penetrated through the air Shorty tightened his grip on the bag He lifted it up as if performing an arm curl This could have been yoursif youd let me sit at the table Billy looked at the clock as well then replied How could I ever trust a guy that goes rogue and takes it out on family Showing no fear Billy said you disgust meKevin Shortys eyes went red He fully extended his gun hand finger on the trigger The door swung open Cahill rushed through Without even glancing at Billy he said Shortywe gotta go Shorty clenched his jaw We He fired twice Cahill crashed dead to the floor Shorty looked back over at Billy and shrugged his shoulders Its what you would have done A smile crept in Before you went soft Sofia rushed into the room and froze Cahills lifeless body crumpled in front of her Oh my God she gasped Sorry doll me and the boys need to head out He started to the back door You clean up and take care of the place Turning back when he reached the door we shouldnt be too long Love ya The door slammed behind him followed by the rev of a car engine and the screeching of tires _Brotherhood Surveillance_ Luccios alert came the Brotherhood voice over the twoway radio in Dannys helmet Cahill entering front on foot He pulled his black Vespa onto Charles Stgridlock He banked a sharp right onto the sidewalk then began picking his way illegally through Boston Commonpedestrians trees no clear path Another voice came through Caprini boys just pulled their black Audi RS into the back alley Danny spoke as he continued to bob and weave 3 minutes out Near the State House foot traffic forced him to slow Sirens blared He looked over towards one Beacon Fire Engines Clogged streets No easy way to get through While he searched for an alternate path he said Mo hows everyone there Price and March recovering from smokeEMTs with them Good shape Thomas in transport to Mass Gen Fire contained APB out on CahillPD response imminent Danny revved and changed directions Copy Any movement Maurice chimed in Eyes only Within a minute Shots fired at Luccios Then another voice__ Audi pulling out South on Hanover Danny responded Do we have a tail A response came back On itits a mess out here Theyre improvising Keep us posted Ill try to catch up Danny responded as he rerouted Within five minutes he heard Theyve crossed over the highway heading to the Seaport Not long after Damn Lost em Anyone Maurice barked Arnie says find the boatCity Treasure Youll find Shorty Danny skidded to a stop He flipped up his visor punched in a location and scanned the directions On itI got an idea where its docked Victor told me once He flicked the visor down and throttled the Vespa south Ten minutes later he pulled off the main road for Marina Bay Thered been chatter but no sightings Anything Danny asked as he pulled into the Marina parking area No was all he heard back Danny rolled towards the water Within seconds he spotted the parked car Then saw Shorty and his boys on the other side of the secure entrance hurrying towards the boat slips Danny raced up to the locked fence helmet still on Marina BayQuincy Boarding their boat now Call the Coast Guard Hurry _Marina Bay Quincy_ Shorty hustled in the lead with Bruno double timing a couple yards back Dino trailed out of earshot lugging two red fivegallon gas cansa green army duffle slung over his shoulder When we get on board top off the tank stow the bags downstairs pull out the flares and loosen the dinghy Shorty barked out Got that he followed up Dad where the hell are we going Bruno panted doing his best to keep up Shorty leaped aboard the fortytwofoot white and blue Boston Whaler turned and stared down at Bruno Latertime is precious son We need to be off this dock in three minutes Bruno looked up from the dock at his dad who towered over him City Treasure III was emblazoned across the sternbig as him Loud as him Below where Shorty stood the image of a Pirates chest with gold trinkets scattered at its base Shorty advanced to the captains station and started prepping Bruno climbed on and turned just as Dino arrived The dock shook as he dropped the cans and pack off his shoulder Whats going on Bruno Dad was dead cold in the car That was gunfire back there Wheres Mom Bruno shook his head and motioned towards the gas cans Dont know Dad wont say Hand up the cans Dino lifted the first and raised it up Bruno grabbed it with both hands and struggled to get it in place Same with the second The engine fired up blades whirring water spraying out the back Gulls circled and cawed as Dino picked up the duffle with both hands and threw it on board like a shot put Shorty called back over the sound of the motor ready to pull out Get the ropes He revved the engine then yelled Now Bruno scampered along the edge of the boat towards the front Dino unwrapped the rope from the wood piling and tossed it over He nudged the bow out while Bruno coiled the rope and then moved to the rear Dino freed the rear rope and flung it towards Bruno who pulled it aboard Bruno centered himself at the rear and reached out his hand to give his brother a lift in Dino gently pushed the boat raised his hand and froze Shorty revved the engine again you guys in he called back Come on Dino Bruno said as he crouched and extended his hand further Dinos glassy eyes returned Brunos pleading look Dino shook his head I cant do it Bro I love you but I just cant leave like this With that Dino pushed the rear of the boat with all his force and backed off Dino was all Bruno could muster Shorty swiveled the seat and stared back at his sons Anger in his eyes he accelerated and pulled away Bruno turned around Dadno We cant leave him Thirty yards out Shorty throttled down to an idle He walked back to where Bruno stood looked at him And then at Dino slumped on the dock You know you can trust me Shorty said Its for the best Before Bruno could answer Shortys hand drove into his back Hard Bruno hit the water as Shorty turned back to the captains chair and gunned it He raised a hand and didnt look back Chapter 47 Hellos Goodbyes _Luccios Restaurant Boston North End The Next Day_ Luccios at two in the afternoon was empty except for two old pals talking while Dean Martin crooned softly in the rafters and the metallic reverb of kitchen pots and pans drifted in from the back Rowan Campbell stood behind the bar cloth slung over his shoulder both palms on the counters edge Billy Lazzaro sat opposite scooping nuts in his fistrecounting childhood memories The front door tugged open with force The sounds of the street and April winds followed Danny Parsons into the entry foyer Danny Rowan called over Billy saw Dannys approach reflecting in the mirror behind the bar He smiled as he popped the last of the nuts in his mouth and started brushing his hands together He stood and turned with arms wide open Boss Great to see you Billy embraced Danny then pulled back and gave him the once over You look exhausted Billy said as he motioned towards the neighboring stoolSit sit Rowan Billy said eyes still on Danny Set him up The regularArnold Palmer with a lemon wedge Right Damn straight Danny replied as he unzipped his jacket and settled onto the stool next to Billy Rowan pulled a glass from overhead and walked over to the ice basin as Billy called out towards the back Sofiacan you come out here The kitchen door swung open and Sofia rounded the end of the bar hair pulled back sweat on her forehead wearing a greasestained apron Danny she beamed then looked down at herself Were down two today everybodys pitching in Weve got Dino on salad prep And Brunos on a bakery run Danny gave her a surprised look Hes fine Sofia said He made it back to shore Mustve remembered those childhood swimming lessons Came in reeking like the harbor A playful smile crossed her face as she came over for a hug You make an excellent marinarawant to come back and lend a hand Hey Rowan Billy said pointing up to the TV behind the bar Volume The overhead TV showed a WBZ news anchor with video footage of a pleasure boatsmoke rising from it Two fire boats sprayed water while a coast guard craft drifted a few yards off the stern Youre looking at live drone footage of a private boattwo miles east of Chatham The video feed zoomed in showing jacketed agents standing on the coast guard deck and City Treasure III visible on the side of the smoldering boat The boat was located one hour ago engulfed in flames Dino burst out a kitchen knife still in hand He set it on the counter without looking away from the screen The blaze was brought under control just before our news drone arrived Weve reached out to the Coast Guard and been notified a rescue team boarded No one on board Controls set to autopilot NTSB has been called in and will be investigating No additional information available at this time The dinghys gone Dino shouted as he pointed towards the TV Well provide updates as we anchor put a hand to his ear Pause Ocean video cuts over to image of Patrick OSullivan standing at a podium We have breaking news over at OSullivans Concord campaign headquarters and pick up a press conference thats just started Gathered behind OSullivan is what looks to be his family with a dejected looking Sandra Reilly standing far right Rowan muttered bastard Then he turned to Sofia sorry Knee jerk Applause rang through the audience A chant of we love Pat repeated while OSullivan looked down smoothing the creases of paper on the lectern He raised his head in acknowledgementa forced toothless grin He repeated thankyous until the voices subsided There comes a time he began when a person must look in the mirror and ask a simple question Is it worth it He paused Recent events have put me in front of that mirror His voice strengthened I believe in the cause In all of you We love Pat cheers resumed as he used his hands to form a heart in return He waited until they passed But I also believe that I must put the safety and welfare of my family ahead of country He gripped the podium with both hands as if for support Effective immediately I announce my decision to withdraw my candidacy Rowan grabbed the clicker pointed it up at the TV and pressed the off button as if squishing an ant He slid the remote down the counter towards the register out of reach Dean Martins crooning overtook the TV silence _You may be the king you may possess the world and its gold_ _Oh but gold wont bring you happiness when youre growing old_ Billy picked up his glass and stood all eyes on him Rowan tapped out an attention signal Billy stood there eyes closedpoised to speak but seemingly lost in the music as he smiled and swayed for a couple of beats He raised his glass and looked them overeyes warm intent clear To Family To Friendship To being here in this place with you Glasses clinked Senti senti Billy reached out for Sofia who came over and he put his arm around her leaning in and speaking softly so only she could hear Thank you Then to the group with youthful energy Im back where I belong Bravo Sofia squeezed his waist Billy exhaled the sound barely audible He strengthened his grip on his drinktook a swallow and stared into the dancing ice cubes An unrestrained smile overtook Billys face Then just for himself Im back _Outside Life is Sweet Keene NH_ Up north life kept movingbecause it always did Keene NH was alive with a spring fever vibe The VW Van shuttle tooled down Main Street on the lookout for a curbside parking slot Willow and Kelly peered out through the van side window Digbys head between them tongue hanging out in the breeze With finals just a week off college kids morphed into scantily clad tripleeyed creatures sprawled on blankets in the sunone eye on their text books one eye on their smartphones and a third scanning for hot bods who might be looking their way Lewis tooted the horn Willow waved wildly to her dad who was standing out front of Life is Sweet with Arnie and Charlie Dont order without me she called out as they continued the parking spot hunt Richards waved back then reached into his pocket and pulled out an envelope tucked inside a clear evidence sleeve Before I forget he said tilting the envelope to Arnie Your 94 notes I pulled them from the cage during the chaos Franco has your satchel Thanks Alastair thought these had gone up in smoke Arnie replied as he transferred the packet to the breast pocket of his beige linen blazer A rumbling growl overtook Arnies voice as a Harley pulled up and idled alongside The rear seat passenger dismounted in slow motion She pulled off her helmet and shook her hair out Maurice swiveled his head and mouthed some words as Connie gave him a thumbs up She walked over to the guys beaming What a great day to be alive Quite an entrance Arnie said Charlie chimed in Nice lookit suits you Connie instinctively twirled and curtseyed He completed his thought And I like your driver Me too she gushed as she turned to watch Maurice pull into a slot on the other side of the town green Then surveying curbside Wheres everyone else Richards replied Royce Evelyn and Phylis are inside the shoppe Then pointing over to the VW Van getting ready to pass by again Willow and Kelly are cruising Main Street with Digby courtesy of Lewislooking to squeeze out every last second together before Charlie here drives us to the airport Dadget me a Twist Willow giggled as the van made another pass Digby spotted squirrels and pushed her to one side of the window Me too Grandpa Kelly echoed Willow yelled back and a Doggie Sundae for Digby Then cupping her hands as they were getting out of earshot with a biscuit on top Digby licked their faces as they cuddled him close Maurice crossed over Court Street and practically floated onto the curb next to Connie Gents great to see you he said as he extended his hand He held Arnies grip an extra beat and asked howre your lungs Any lingering effects Arnie smiled Im good And then answering towards Connie Looking forward to getting back to routine Digby came running up with Willow laughing barely holding onto the taut leash Arnie bent down to pet him but a rustling in the bushes caught Digbys attention and he was off Shall we Maurice asked as he motioned with his black gloved hand Ill stay here Arnie responded Evelyn assigned me as the designated table holder I need to protect this area with my Dont go there Charlie cut in Ill keep you company Evelyns taking care of my order Want an ice cream Arnie Connie asked He thought SureButter Pecan She stared back What he asked She raised her eyes cup or cone Cup She moved with Maurice toward the shoppe as Arnie reached for his billfold Richards motioned for Arnie to put his wallet away Ive got it Need to use up our American currency Then looking over at Maurice opening the door for Connie commented looks like a budding romance Indeed Charlie concurred Evelyn exited with an ice cream cup and two spoons as Maurice continued to hold the door open She held up for a brief moment and leaned in You better treat her nice Then playfully Ive got my eye on you Yes maam Maurice replied as he tipped his head and released the door behind herjingling bells ushered him inside Maurice spotted Cindy Cane in back stocking candy dispensers He leaned toward Connie CCvanilla frappe Ill be right back You got it Connie replied without turning studying the flavor board as if cramming for a final Cindy saw Maurice approach Her shoulders tensed A scoop of Skittles fell from her hand clattering across the linoleum floor Maurice smiled and raised his hands_I mean you no harm_and bent down to assist in the cleanup With the Skittles corralled and Maurice still crouched in a catchers stance he reached into his leather jacket pocket and handed over an envelope Cindy hesitated before accepting it hands still unsettled The envelope ripped as she opened it up and pulled out the contents She froze gasped and then lunged towards Mauricearms wide open Her sounds of appreciation overtook The Archies as everyone turned to see Cindy hopping up and down She wiped her eyes and went in for one more hug Excuse me Phylis called Im over here She aimed it at the ponytailed high schooler who was still staring toward the commotion in back Im not done with trying samples Phylis pointed to the _try it before you buy it_ sign taped to the display case Youve tried seven so far Phylis Royce cut in Thats practically a full serving Then smiling cant believe I never thought of this HmmI wonder if the diner Bubble gum Phylis interrupted as she decided on her order In a waffle cone Then she turned and pushed her walker toward the door Royce can you bring it out Connie came up alongside Royce just as a fourscoop banana split was placed on the counter Sir do you want nuts with this Connie raised her eyebrows and opened her mouth as if in complete shock and ready to give a piece of her mind You think this is all for me Royce asked innocently Then he leaned in and cupped his mouth with one hand yesload it up Connie wrapped an arm around Royce I love you Royce Bennett she whispered Caught a bit off balance Royce said youre not so bad yourself as he accepted the waffle cone and picked up his order in an effort to make a clean getaway Connie handed Maurice his order Here you go Then asked Did you hear back from Franco and Mendez Are they meeting us here Yup he said before he took a long sip then continued they should be pulling up any time now Maurice paid and slipped a fifty in the tip jar WowThank you sir Connie leaned into his side and whispered you really know how to impress the ladies Only trying to impress one he smiled back as he opened the door and Connie passed through Honk Honk Kellytime to go her mom yelled through the open passenger side window of the doubleparked Prius Charlie got up from the patio table and walked over Hey Sabrina Shell be right with you She made quite a friend in Willow this past week Be warnedI expect theyre planning a reunion across the pond Sabrina grinned thanks for the heads up She leaned across towards Charlie Looks like youre really settled in Charlie looked over at the group sitting at the table turned back Indeed I have Kelly arrived wiping her face Ma cant Grandpa Charlie shook his head as he opened the car door Pace yourself Kelly He winked more adventures ahead Im sure of it She gave him a snuggle hug as she buckled up He double tapped the car door and waved as they drove off Ready Connie Maurice asked after slurping air pockets in his frappe For what she asked Hear that Its the sound of Fury Grab your helmetadventure awaits Maurice replied Franco rolled into the spot the Prius had just vacated Mendezs arms wrapped firmly around his waist The sleek black motorcycle purred with the sound of a wildcat ready to pounce He looked over at the filled table and broke out a huge white toothed grin Parked around the corner Maurice yelled out signaling to Connie to grab her helmet Arnie got up and walked over to Franco as Mendez flipped up her visor Richards followed him over No words were spoken Franco pulled one hand off the handlebars as Richards moved forward smiled and pushed out his fist Franco and then Mendez responded in kind Arnie reached out his handopen palm Franco gripped it as if arm wrestling and squeezed Mendez smiled with her eyes and flipped her visor back down Franco looked over Arnies shoulder to the group eating ice cream There was Royce a big spoonful of ice cream in one hand and his finger sliding down the bridge of his nose Franco released Arnies hand and returned Royces gesture He throttled up lifted his legs and slowly pulled out Mendez released one arm and gave a backward wave as they rode over to where Maurice and Connie were saddled up The pair walked back towards the group and paused at the curb You have an open invitation to visit anytime I look forward to another whiskey chat and I can arrange for an offthebeatenpath tour of London Arnie looked over at Willow holding the Doggie Sundae while Digbys nose was deep into the cup then popping out as if his face was lathered with shaving cream Id like that Alastair I look forward to it Alastair put his arm around Arnies shoulder to be continued Arnie Promise me that much Thats a promise I can keep Arnie replied as they returned to the table Ready Alastair Charlie asked If we leave now we can avoid the stress of traffic and airport security Willow its time to head out Richards called out As Charlie stood his smartphone beeped and buzzed He pulled it out read the text and grinned He tilted it down towards Evelyn Do you have time to be my plusone She leaned in and read _Can you finish our conversation over dinner tonight at Luccios My treat Billy Plusone welcome_ Evelyn smiled as she rose I wouldnt miss it Excellent Charlie said as he replied a thumbs up emoji Willow handed Arnie the leash gave Digby one last hughis tail wagged faster than high speed wipers Arnie joined Phylis and Royce at the table and watched as his friends loaded into Charlies Fairlane and drove off He sat down at the edge and crossed his legs forestgreen socks peeking out from beneath his cuffs as he took a bite of ice cream He turned his attention to Phylis What flavor is that youre working on Bubble gum she replied Arnie scrunched his eyebrows You should have seen the sample flavors she tried Royce pitched in cotton candy smurf was my favorite Whats gotten into you Arnie asked as he took a bite of his own ice cream Time is shortlot of things I havent tried Phylis responded as she swirled her spoon in the cup Arnie shot a quizzical look but before he could say anything Mr can we pet your dog Two young girls approached hesitant He tightened his grip on the leash looked over and said sure hes very friendly and a bit messy They giggled as Digby squirmed Arnie turned back to Phylis Is everything alright Phylis Royce sank his spoon in for another bite and put it in his mouth like a pacifier eyes staring down at the remains of his dessert Its been a rough couple of weeks Im working through it but Honk Honk The black VW van pulled up passenger window down You all ready to head back Lewis shouted over the Beach Boys harmonizing at full throat Be right there Arnie shouted back Lewis got out glided open the side door and helped get Phylis and her walker settled with Royces help Arnie cleaned up the table and followed them in with Digby in tow They rolled out bound for Stonegate as _Good Vibrations_ bounced through the cab Epilogue Found It _Following Tuesday Peterborough Library_ There Arnie sat in his regular seat at the library Digby curled up on the mat by his side The comforts of the familiar were laid out at his listening table A halffinished NYT crossword laminated rule sheet spare pencils and his thirtyminute hourglass timer out front only a couple minutes of sand remaining up top Across from him sat Jerry Dickson A recent IT retiree whod become a library regular and was trying his hand at writing Someone that helped keep the rhythm of the place alive and often found his way to Arnies table I dont get it Arnie Jerry lamented Get what Arnie asked closed notebook in hand with his forefinger wedged in to mark the pagenumber 2 pencil tucked behind his ear It Jerry shot back Can you elaborate Arnie responded Jerry reached down to his backpack and pulled out a sheaf of papers Thwack Rejection letters Jerry said as he stared at the pages now stacked in front of Arnie He picked up the top few and started thumbing through them Shaking his head pausing to pick out snippets along the way Didnt grab me Missing spark Not strong enough hook Jerry paused looked up at Arnie Most of these are form letters with lines like this is a subjective business no reflection on you keep trying happy to look at your next project Arnie knew better than to jump in Jerry needed to get it out Jerry waved his arms around them pointing at the shelves Arnie youre a writer Look at all these books around us What is the it they have that I dont As Arnie turned his head to follow Jerrys orchestration he heard the familiar scraping sound of a walker and the heavy breathing of none other than Phylis Hudderbing as she got off the elevator Arnie directed his attention back to Jerry as the last grains of sand fell through to the bottom Our times up Jerry Arnie said Jerry slumped his shoulders collected his papers and dropped them back in his backpack He shook his head muttering I just dont get it He scooted his chair back and was about to stand as Arnie responded Tell you what Jerry Drop off your manuscript and Ill take a read through and see if I can help you find that missing it Jerry raised his head bright eyed and energetic You mean that Arnie Would you like it in Word PDF or audio format At this point Phylis was over Jerrys shoulder giving Arnie that _its my time now_ look Arnie stood as he said paper please Jerry reached into his backpack and pulled out a ream of paper Thwump Arnie shook his head smiled back Give me two weeks Youre the best Jerry said as he practically danced away Youre getting soft Arnie Phylis said as Arnie came around to help her into the opposing chair He looked down at the schedule sheet So you must be Phil Hudd then he said with a sly grin Howd you get here he asked as he went around to his side of the table Phylis reached down and scratched Digbys belly He stretched out his front and rear legs in appreciation never opening his eyes Royce Hes downstairs reading through Graphic Novels Boys and their comics she said Itll keep him busy for a half hour She reached over and flipped the hourglass What would you like to talk about Arnie inquired Phylis reached into her handbag and pulled out some papers On the top was a newspaper clipping from 1965 _Four year old girl missing_ Read this Phylis commanded Arnie read through the article and looked back up at Phylis Dont say a word Phylis said before Arnie could open his mouth She picked up the doctors diagnosis of her cancer and passed it to Arnie Now read this His eyes watered his shoulders slumped and his hands trembled ruffling the paper as he read Phylis raised a hand palm out signaling silence With her other hand she passed over one more piece of paper that showed multiple folds At the top _BUCKET LIST_ was written in bold caps He scanned through the list as she spoke I want you to help me find my daughter Cynthia And you can see theres a bit of a time crunch on this one Arnie sat back stunned _Find my daughter Cynthia_ was listed as number one Gathering himself Phylis Im so sorry I had no idea you were going through Phylis picked up one of the pencils and tapped on the laminated sheet _No 9 I may ask questions thats it_ Arnie this a lot to take in You know me Cut to the chase Phylis said as she reached for the pitcher of water and poured a glass She pushed it across to Arnie along with the tissue box Im not taking treatment its stage IV No turning back I want to find out what happened to Cynthia and find my baby girlwho is now hopefully alive and sixtyfive And Im asking for your help After pulling a kleenex and blowing his nose he quietly asked why me there are so many other services and agencies that are more equipped and better at this than me You dont think Ive tried in the past I moved here to Stonegate because I found out through his obit that my ex died here in the Monadnock region He eluded authorities and Im convinced hes the one that abducted her This is a sixtyyearold cold case Phylis responded with unmistakable determination And as for your question why me Thats easy I dont know anyone with more desire and dedication to get to the truthno matter the costthan you Arnie looked at Phylis with a flood of emotions unable to hide the pain in his face Can I keep these papers to look through I need to think about this he said as he assembled them into a neat pile and prepared to put them in his briefcase Sure she said But let me have the list I need to get that back to Royce Hes keeping tabs for me Arnie scanned the bucket list one more time He smiled as he worked his way towards the bottom I think we can take care of this one in the near future he smiled as he handed it over to her Who else knows About your illness I mean Arnie asked as Phylis pushed back her chair You and Royce Thats it for now I dont want a fuss As she stood and gripped the walker handles she followed up I dont want to be fixed I dont want to be coddled I want to live the time I have to the fullest And I want to find out what happened to Cynthiaand spend time with her if I can As she turned she finished let me know soon Arnie I know youre the right person to help me And with that Phylis pushed away and a middleaged woman filled the vacuum launching into an AI diatribe before Arnie knew what hit him I swear Arnie this AI thing is busting up my family Arnie watched as Phylis clanked her way toward the elevator with incredible strength Arnie are you listening the woman asked He shook his head and brought his attention back to the woman sitting across from him My husband is getting lazier and doesnt think for himself anymore ChatGPT doesnt take out the trash Hes sending selfies to Gemini CoPilot doesnt drive a car does it Arnie sat in stone silence And if I hear him say Claude told me one more timewell Im going back to live with my mother Huh Arnie asked eyes wandering back to see the library elevator doors close _Tuesday Night Stonegate Rec Room_ Arnie walked into the rec room Digby at his side and looked around as the room bustled with bridge prep Sinatra was back crooning through the rafters Evelyn was laying out the bridge boxes giving Charlie instructions in the process Connie was putting the finishing touches on arranging the snacks and drinks patting Royces hand now and then directing him towards the healthy foods Royce spotted Arnie and approached carrot in one hand cookie in another Hey Arnie Hows it going Royce said taking a nibble of carrot Im doing well Thanks Royce Looking forward to sitting down and playing some bridge Arnie responded Yay about that Do you mind if I partner with Phylis tonight Told here Id coach her and Arnie waved in signal to politely cut him off thats perfectly fine Oh and I arranged for a partner for you Didnt want to leave you in the lurch Royce pointed over to Charlie who was helping Evelyn smooth out the table cloth on table three Good choice Itll be fun Arnie replied as he looked over at Charlie and then over towards Phylis who was standing next to the cupcakes smiling back at him The evening was filled with the laughter and comradery that filled a typical bridge night Arnie and Charlie took a little bit of time getting used to each others playas Charlie moved from trying to outthink his opponents to thinking more like Arnie At one point in the evening they were partnered up versus Royce and Phylis One spade Royce bid pass Arnie responded Four spades shot Phylis Thats my girl Royce affirmed Fast arrival Phylis responded No point beating around the bush And they made the contract with ease At 830pm it was time to break down Everyone had their part as tables were cleared trash collected food leftovers divvied up Arnie sat there looking around and taking it all in Looking around at the people now in his life He bent down and gave Digby a scratch and then slid him a leftover rollpressing his finger to his lips The overhead music transitioned and Arnie heard a voice from his youth and words that cut straight through him _And pride sticks out its tongue_ _Laughs at the portrait weve become_ He reached into his jacket pocket pulled out his billfold opened and stared at his favorite pictureClaire and him big smiles ocean in the background _Stuck in a frame unable to change_ _I was wrong_ He slipped the photo back looked over at Phylis and felt it He felt the it overtake himthe desire to help this person no matter the cost The thing that had eluded him for thirtyplus years The it that had eluded him these past thirty plus years He rose and walked across the floor He reached out his hand Phylis can I have this dance She beamed No walker You good with that Absolutely he replied Oh wait She turned to Royce handing him the folded paper Check off number seventeen As she got up she smiled and said to Royce yes you can tell Arnie reached out and gently walked her out a few paces And then they swayed as one Her arms around him with a hold that wouldnt let go Royce walked over to Connie then to Evelyn cupping a hand and whispering in their ears Their mouths opened their eyes swelled with tears their heads moved to view the couple in the middle of the room _Did I wait too long_ _To turn the lights back on_ Arnie leaned in close and whispered into Phylis ear Ill do it She squeezed him and moved as if nothing in the world could hold her back THE END