Cast the Cards

“You don’t have to explain, Carey. I know what yesterday was.”

“Yeah… you ready to go in?”

She adjusted the strap to her satchel. “Did you tell them I was coming?”

“Yeah, I did. Once I mentioned your name nothing else I said afterward was heard.”

“That’ll probably work to our advantage.”

“Yes and no.”

“What are you trying to say?”

“They’re excited, Savannah. They want to talk to you, congratulate you on your success. I told them not to crowd you too much, but you know Dale.”

She closed her eyes. This was a long time coming. The prodigal daughter had returned and for once she was interacting, not holed up in the house. “I expected as much.”

“Are you going to play nice?” Carey’s concerned expression made her snort. His haughty tone doused the flames of wanting.

“I’m not a total asshole, Carey.”

“Hey, I’m just looking out for my people. They don’t deserve any disrespect or alienation.”

“I know better than to piss in someone else’s pond.”

His eyes lightened in the sun, turning to a brilliant blue that matched the sadness she saw reflected in the oceanic pools. “This used to be your pond too.”

The guilt trip triggered her ire. “Are you going to throw stones in a glass house?” Her voice was cool and calm. But on the inside she seethed, ready to rip into him and deliver hurt, have him feel the pain he carelessly inflicted.

“Hey! I stayed.” he barked. Anger tightened his muscles. His chest stuck out, and his strong jaw clenched.

“You had your turbulent times too. Why should I be the bad guy because I didn’t rage out loud in actions or words?” She counted to ten. “Listen, we’re not going to get anywhere being at each other’s throats.”

He sighed. “You’re right. This is petty. I’ll be nice, if you’re nice.”

“Deal.”

“We should go inside. I’m sure they’re all watching us.” He turned on his heel and she followed. Reality hit her like a sledgehammer. She was going to see all the gory details up close and in person.

Can I keep it together? Look at this the same way I would any other case? The pressure pushed down on her. Every step she took became harder than the one previous. A fine sheen of sweat broke out on her forehead. He opened the door to the station, holding it open as she walked inside the mid-sized brick building. The short hallway gave way to a homey atmosphere. The

small desk boasted two computers manned by a burly officer with dark brown skin, a bald head, and a husky build.

“Sergeant, Agent West.”

“Savannah, this is Officer Williams.”

She walked over to the desk and offered her hand. “Nice to meet you, Officer Williams.”

They shook. His grip was firm and his hand steady.

“Likewise.” He measured her with an assessing gaze.

She stepped back, pulled her ID badge off her belt, and set it on the counter. “I know it’s a technicality, but here’s my information to check me in.”

Officer Williams smiled. Looks like I passed the test. His fingers flew over the keys as he logged in her information.

“You’re all set, Agent West.”