The Sixth Man (Sean King & Michelle Maxwell 5)

“Well, I know he went there yesterday. He told me he had an appointment there at six o’clock. He was concerned that if his flight was delayed he wouldn’t get there in time. I understand it’s quite a drive from Portland.”

“Yes, it is.”

“And he’s certainly been to see Mr. Roy in the past. I don’t recall the exact dates, but I can look them up on the computer and e-mail them to you.”

“That would be great. Uh, I know Ted’s wife had passed away, and I don’t believe they had any kids. But is there anyone that needs to be contacted? I mean any extended family?”

“He had a brother. But he passed on about three years ago now. I never heard him mention anyone else. His family was his work, I guess.”

“I guess.”

Michelle caught his eye and held up two fingers.

Sean nodded and said, “Hilary, did Ted have anyone else working with him? I just assumed he was solo but it suddenly occurred to me that I didn’t know that for sure. I’d been out of touch with him for a couple years.”

“He has an associate. A very bright young lady barely a year out of law school.”

“Really? What’s her name?”

“Megan Riley.”

“Is she in the office now?”

“No, she’s at a court hearing. She said she’d be back a bit after lunch.”

“Was she working on the Roy case?”

“I know that she knew about it. Small firm and all. And she’s done

some research on it for Mr. Bergin, because he mentioned it to me.”

“Can you have her contact me when she gets in? I really need to talk to her.”

“Absolutely, I sure will.” She paused. “Sean, are they going to find out who did this awful thing?”

“Well, if the FBI doesn’t, we will. I promise you that.”

“Thank you.”

Sean put the phone down and looked at Michelle.

She said, “Well, that’s good news. He had an associate.”

“A first year. That’s not good news. No way a judge will let her rep a capital murder case. Not one with this high a profile. Too much risk for an incompetent counsel affirmative defense on appeal.”

“But you’re an experienced lawyer.”

“Michelle, I told you, I’m not even sure if my license is active.”

“Then if I were you I’d find out.”

Sean made a few calls. He clicked off the last one with a tiny smile.

“I forgot I had some carry-forward credits. I’m still active.” His smile faded. “But I haven’t been in a court in a long time.”

“Like riding a bike.”

“No, it’s really not.”