Chapter 24

Part 1

Debbie sat at her desk looking over the notes provided to her by Doctor Mills-Smith and was rather shocked at some of what he put down. Granted it was an unsigned copy but she had no doubt that Doctor Mills-Smith wouldn’t hesitate to sign it or even swear to it in court. He was pretty steamed still about losing young Justin Fisher and his anger was something rare these days. From what little she had already discovered, the ER was his personal battlefield and it was refreshing to know that at least there still were some who cared for their profession. All too often she had come across people who were simply putting in the time, waiting for the paycheques instead of actually earning them.

Damn, there she went again she thought, as she leaned back in her chair, knowing that in many cases she really wasn’t much better. After all, what was the difference between her and how she applied the rules and someone who simply did the minimal amount of work for their cheque? Didn’t she owe it to the people she was supposed to help to actually reach beyond the scope allowed by the rules? Hell, were those so called rules that, or weren’t they really meant to be simply a general guideline, and besides, who in the hell said that kids or people all were average, or the ‘norm’ as it was called? People were all different, sure some would fall into the general class, some even below it, but shouldn’t she be looking at each person as just that, as a unique single person not some statistic? Maybe if she had done more of that then people like Cory Treat wouldn’t have fallen through the system’s cracks and he would still be alive today? Maybe Robbie Fisher wouldn’t have attempted suicide either!

Her mood certainly wasn’t any better knowing that perhaps she was wrong in how she had approached her job, and the lack of sleep after a night of imbibing didn’t help her disposition either but thinking of Myron did and so her mind travelled back to that long walk along Dallas road earlier in the morning. God, to think that at her ripe old age of 38 that someone like Myron Shecter could be interested in her was exciting to say the least, and she wondered if they would sleep together sooner or later? Strange, sex had never been something that ever really interested her and yet she already was feeling nervous and apprehensive about doing just that with Myron. She could feel the way her body tingled too, something she hadn’t felt since she was a junior in High School, which was what, 20 odd years ago?

What worried her most and even scared her really was that it had literally been years since she had been intimate with a man and she didn’t know if she still could be that way. What if she were so stale, so rusty at the procedure that it turned Myron off, what would happen to their relationship then? God, this was just like being in school, all these sexual thoughts when really, she should be concentrating on the case before her, but damn it she was human and she really did want to feel someone next to her at nights, she wanted to wake up with someone leaning next to her body instead of the pillow, and that had to count, didn’t it? Maybe that was why she had been what she was then and still perhaps was, a stickler for the rules instead of a true advocate for the clients placed in her care.

How many of her co-workers had she lambasted for just marking time, for just going through the drill, when she herself had simply used the rules as an excuse not to help, not to solve the real problem? Was she really any better than any of those she had scorned and screamed at? Could all of her past be just so much trash and why the hell was she so wrapped up in even thinking about the past? There was nothing she could do about what had occurred, so why dredge it all up? Why spend countless hours after work drinking or pacing her apartment floors over something she couldn’t change? What was it that was nagging at her, making her feel so useless, so incomplete?

Her mind was so occupied with her self-analysis that she didn’t even hear the phone ringing at her side. Not until the third ring did it dawn on her that it was her phone blaring in her ears and as she reached for the offending instrument she could see some of the stares her co-workers were giving her and she just shook her head, knowing they all thought she was a holy terror when in fact she knew that she was just a confused woman who was falling in love while feeling the strain of her job. God what a mess she was in as she answered the call.

Debbie “Debbie Winston.”

Jake Mathews “Ms. Winston? Jake Mathews from CH News.”

Debbie “CH news? Oh, and what can I do for CH News Mr Mathews?”

Jake “Well, I would like to ask you some questions about a story we will be running later tonight.”

Her eyes narrowed as she listened to the voice of the reporter. The hair on the back of her neck started to itch, as she knew that this wasn’t some ordinary call. For the moment she wasn’t certain what was going on but she had this sick feeling growing that it would involve the Fisher’s and worse, her too.

Debbie “And what story would that be Mr. Mathews?”

Jake “The one about young Justin Fisher and his older brother Robert. I believe you are the assigned worker?”

The acid began to burn the back of her throat as her stomach began its rolling and twisting motion. She didn’t know how he had all this information already and while her face had grown hard and rigid, the lines showed up clearly and her eyes narrowed even more, her head swivelled around the room, wondering if someone here had already passed on the preliminary information? It wasn’t unheard of for some workers to have a so-called working relationship with certain reporters and for her money she detested those people. They were like spies as far as she was concerned, but for now she would have to just try to see what this Jake Mathews knew or thought he knew.

Debbie “I see, and just what story is that Mr Mathews?”

Jake “Well, let me just say that we are interested in knowing more about the death of a 16 year old who was highly touted as an up and coming basketball star for starters, and that his older brother, who we know was a star, had attempted suicide just days earlier. I think our viewers would like some answers, don’t you Ms. Winston?”

Debbie “I see, you people don’t waste much time do you?”

Jake “Ms. Winston, news is news, and you have to admit, both boys in such a short time, one has to have some curiosity, don’t you think?”

Debbie “Curiosity or sensationalism, Mr Mathews?”

He could almost see the old prune as she spoke, the acid dripping from her tongue as she thought she was so damn smart. Well, he hadn’t really expected much else from her, given her reputation. Jake did his homework and he had studied what they had on Ms. Debbie Winston of Social Services. It wasn’t much but what they did have showed her to be a fierce follower of rules and procedures, so fierce that she had developed a reputation as being a tough advocate for kids, but he wasn’t all that impressed by that. After all it was easy to claim that title when all you did was stick to some rulebook, and he may follow the rules more times than not, but then he took his share of risks too, after all some rules were just meant to be broken.

Jake “Maybe both, look, if you don’t want to talk to me on the record or even off, that is fine. We’ll run with what we have and we’ll be sure to put that Social Services refuses to discuss it. Now maybe it won’t matter, maybe there is nothing for Social Services to comment on, but I don’t think this is a simple set of coincidences, and I am betting neither will our viewers, do you?”

His voice had taken on an edge and she knew that he was hiding something, which perhaps he did have something that was showing him something she hadn’t come across yet. It generally was that way too, public companies or organizations like the media were far better positioned to get more details than her department was. They had the resources, while all she had was herself and, on occasion, a co-worker if the case were complicated. Hell, they only had one single investigator for the entire office while many news groups could put one or more people on a story. It really wasn’t fair or even right but it was the way of the world, but she wasn’t about to let this reporter know that. For now she could only go with what she had, and while perhaps the death was more than it had appeared, she didn’t think there was much she could do, not without something more substantial than Doctor Mills-Smith’s hunches.

Debbie “Well I can tell you that neither the department nor I am very likely to fall victim to your brand of coercion Mr. Mathews. Now if you want an interview with me, why don’t you be a nice young man and simply request one, threatening me and the department certainly won’t get you much co-operation, and I think you know that too, don’t you Mr Mathews?”

Jake “I am not trying to coerce anyone Ms Winston, I just want to get some answers, whatever they may be about a story we are running…”

Debbie “Then call the department’s public relations liaison and ask for an appointment, that is how it is done Mr Mathews.”

Jake “I know that, but the story runs on the six o’clock broadcast. There isn’t time for all that political crap, so it is your call. Like I said, I am quite willing to go to air with what I have and to simply say you and the department refuse to comment, so what is it going to be?”

If it were a test of wills he wanted, then he certainly had come to the right person, she thought as her anger also rose up. She was sick and tired of all the nonsense that the press sprouted about ‘people’s right to know’ and ‘the public deserves to know’ nonsense. There were such things as consideration for one’s grief, for a person’s loss that should take precedence over whether a story aired now or in 24 hours from now. No, the idea of some hotshot newshound trying to push her was too much and her anger spilled out into her voice.

Debbie “As I told you, I don’t respond to blackmail or threats, so go ahead, run your story. But before you do, you should consider this, you may not have all the facts, you may cause innocent pain and suffering to people already struggling with a terrible set of circumstances and loss, and I know several lawyers in town who would love to take you and your station to task for such careless and reckless abandon, so run with your story Mr. Mathews. Claim whatever you wish about me and the department, I am sure my superiors will have a most interesting comment tomorrow if you do as you say you will. So two can play your game, now you tell me, which will it be?”

He had to admit that she was indeed a tough bitch, but then he did know who her superior was and he doubted if that fat tub of lard would do anything except wring his hands, tut tut them all and then proceed to simply ignore whatever he said tonight or even in future pieces. No, Ms. Winston had no real aces up her sleeve, a king perhaps as far as there being lawyers ready to sue the station but there too he knew she was blowing up smoke. Before any lawyer would touch a case against the station, they’d have to know the facts and he had his recorder going, he doubted if she did.

Jake “They told me you were a tiger; look Ms. Winston, can’t we come to some sort of compromise here? I mean, what if I ask you some basic questions now, then we can set up a more detailed interview for tomorrow and we’ll do a follow up piece based on that interview? Now surely that is being fair, isn’t it?”

Debbie “Perhaps, but we don’t even know if there is anything to investigate yet, how can I promise you a follow up on something that may not even exist tomorrow?”

Jake “But you are checking into it now aren’t you?”

Debbie “Of course, we check into any death of a minor, that is standard procedure.”

Jake “So I can use that?”

The colour drained from her face as she realized her mistake too late. She had given him confirmation that they were indeed looking into the Fisher situation and she grew angry with herself for being so blasted stupid. He had tricked her but then too, she had asked for it. Well, all she could do was put limits as best she could but if, and that was a big ‘if’ there were any more calls from this guy, she’d be ready for him. Maybe she should talk to Myron about it too, after all he was a lawyer and maybe if the report was harmful, was done without any real facts being given, maybe he just could be the one to pull the plug on this jerk? Sure was worth a shot as she leaned back in her chair, her colour returning to her face.

Debbie “Well, I suppose, as long as you make it very clear that it is simply standard procedure, that it is not an investigation per se, then yes, I suppose you could.”

Jake “Thank you, and if I call tomorrow, will you allow us to set up an interview for on camera?”

Debbie “I’ll have to clear it first, and that is also assuming we have anything to proceed on. Yes, I can agree to that.”

Jake “Good, then tomorrow.”

Debbie “Very well, tomorrow.”

Damn reporters, she hated them with a passion and while she knew that CH was the so called local station, she still didn’t like the way that Mathews character had weaseled out of her that some form of an investigation was happening. Shit, she really should have just told him to take a hike and let the PR hacks handle the whole thing, but it was too late now, the fat was in the fire but what was it that CH news thought they had? The guy sounded totally convinced that he would be doing a follow up piece. Her mind grew apprehensive, as she once more stared at the notes that Doctor Mills-Smith had given her. What was she missing as she read over his report one more time, taking time to make notes this time, notes of things she needed more information on and as she read, part of her wondered what Myron was doing at this particular moment.

It was really a strange and rather exhilarating feeling to be thinking more about some man than her job. It had been a long time since she had even dared think about a man the way she was thinking of Myron, but then he had shown he was worthy of that attention. After all, he was a perfect gentleman last night when he most likely could have easily convinced her into a quick tryst in the bedroom; instead, he had taken her on a walk. In many ways it was far more romantic to her than any sexual act could have been and besides, she did rather enjoy his company. He didn’t seem all that self assured as his court room demeanour implied but then her own court persona wasn’t exactly who she was either, was it? No, the walk had been the right touch and she certainly hoped there would be many more such moments. It would maybe make it all seem like she really was alive, not just going through the motions, which was exactly how she felt up until now.

Her mind finally returned to the papers in front of her and she once more read the Doctor’s version of the confrontation between Robbie Fisher and his father, Walter. Strange, she had noticed that before, the way the Doctor had implied that Walter Fisher had seemed to have expected Robbie to be the one to die, not Justin. In fact, as she flipped through the pages, even the reporting police constable had made note that the father had at first thought it was about Robert James, not the younger Justin. Now that was interesting to her and she knew she couldn’t avoid it much longer, the two cases seemed too entwined to be separate and yet they couldn’t be related, could they? Could Robbie’s suicide attempt have anything to do with Justin’s injury?

This whole case smelled to her, there had to be some connection but what? From all appearances the two boys were fairly normal, well adjusted except for a few minor disturbances that weren’t really something to warrant attention from her department or even cause warning flags to be raised, or were they? Was there more to the school records than what they showed? Her head was hurting as she pondered all the possibilities and she knew she had to get more information and maybe some of that would come from the ‘piece’ that that Jake Mathews was airing later tonight. Somehow she knew that she would need to watch that, even though she hated that particular channel. Hell, she disliked most of them for the way they twisted and led people on with their teaser headlines, their so-called breaking news that was anything but breaking. No, as much as she didn’t like any of them, she knew she would need to see what the piece was, what it might allege and maybe reveal. Her heart ached a little because it meant she would be later than she thought for meeting Myron, but this couldn’t be helped.

While she rather doubted that CH News had anything other than speculation, it might be wise to think ahead too. If they did, they’d need to have a copy of the tape and of the notes made by the reporter or, and she sat there, a light flashing inside. Jake Mathews wasn’t a sports reporter, he did feature stuff like the flower show or such. Gordie Askew was the sports investigative reporter, as he liked to call himself, and so this story should be in his domain, not Mathews. It meant that there were at least two reporters working the case, and that gave her a queasy feeling in the very pit of her stomach.

No way would CH News or Sports for that matter put two reporters on a story if they didn’t have something. It had to be much more than what she had and she needed to know what it was, before it became too tainted. Her hand shook a little as she remembered how just last month there had been a big stink caused by the Sports reporter, Askew. Her memory quickly dredged up the story that had turned out to be false, totally and 100% wrong and sitting back now, she began to develop her own game plan. The story had caused a great deal of anxiety with her department up island, not to mention in the RCMP and the Attorney General’s department too. So while she knew her own superior was nothing more than a political hack from the previous NDP government, she did have some clout that could make a difference, if she could just get it all lined up quickly.

Swivelling around in her chair she searched the office and there in the far corner was the key to the first step in her sketchy plan. She hollered out for Steve who turned and frowned a little as he recognized the voice calling him. He smiled and waved but she knew it was a forced smile. He and she didn’t get along all that well, at least not as well as Steve got along with other case workers. He had said she was too demanding and exacting, which was true but then that wasn’t important now as she waited for him to saunter over to her desk. She bristled a little at how he took his time but she bit back any thought of an angry retort or further call to him, she needed him right now and the case was much more important than her thoughts or feelings.

Waiting while Steve made his way slowly, she began to put it together in her mind at how she could perhaps forestall, if not downright nix any plans for CH to air anything tonight. It would be a gamble, one that if they had nothing would of course lead to wild accusations and perhaps legal complications, but if they did and she could then make a case out of it, well perhaps CH news would find itself in more hot water than she would be in. While that was a most pleasing thought to her, she also knew deep inside that they did have something, something that she needed in order to at least have a clue as to what had happened not just to Justin, but to Robbie. She owed Robbie that much as she looked up into Steve’s face and in her stomach, the acid continued to churn, knowing that she was taking a risk here, that she would be actually going against procedure.

Steve “You rang?”

Debbie ignored the sarcasm as she looked into Steve’s face. He wasn’t bad looking for a man of his years, but then he did work out and besides, 40 wasn’t exactly old. His eyes were narrowed and she could tell that he wanted nothing to do with her if at all possible. Her mind though was made up as she leaned back a little in her chair, a small squeaking sound filling the awkward silence for a second.

Debbie “Yeah, sorry about that, but I need your help.”

There was something different about her that made him stare a bit harder at her. He really couldn’t stand her if the truth were known, but then not too many people did like her, she was way too much a ‘book’ person. Everything, reports, calls, all of it had to be documented and recorded before she would even look at it. Working on any of her cases meant you spent more time dotting the blasted ‘i’s’ than you did getting the information. Yet, looking at her, the way she hadn’t braced him for taking his time getting to her desk, all was out of character for her and he had to admit, it did have his interest.

Steve “Oh? Well I have a pretty full load Debbie, I don’t know how soon I can take on anything else, I mean…”

Debbie “This is important, Steve. You still have your contact at RCMP headquarters here?”

Steve “Huh? Uh yeah but really Debbie, I can’t take on anything new right now, honest.”

The way he stood at her desk, the way he held his arms and even how he looked at her told her that he really didn’t like her. Funny, she had never really thought about it much, but seeing how uneasy he was around her for the first time made her think about it. In some ways she knew she had been tough but she thought she had the respect at least of her co-workers; but looking at Steve, she realized she didn’t have respect, she had their fear. They didn’t care about her, they simply didn’t want her to report them, and for the first time it really sank in. Debbie felt sad at the thought that all she was to her co-workers was someone to be feared. It wasn’t how she had wanted to be thought of, yet staring at Steve she knew it was how she was perceived.

While the notion that she was disliked troubled her, she knew that she couldn’t let that bother her right now. She needed Steve’s help and she had to win him over because without his support, without his inside contacts her plan didn’t stand a chance and that wasn’t acceptable, least not anymore.

Debbie “Just hear me out first Steve, okay? As a favour to me, please, I really need your help on this.”

Steve “Uh, well okay, go ahead, can’t hurt to listen.”

Debbie “Thanks Steve, I do appreciate it. Look, you know anything about the high school basketball scene in town?”

He couldn’t believe he was actually listening to her, giving her a chance to explain but there was something different about her today. It wasn’t just the way she was dressed or even the make up she was wearing, but it was her face actually. It looked animated for the first time, not the same sour expression that they had all come to expect from her, and as he looked into her eyes he saw something he had never seen before. There was a spark there, almost a twinkle even that he had to admit made her look rather stylish. Strange, he had never considered her as a looker or even as much of a woman, she was just some rule book demon that you tried to avoid but this time, well this time she looked almost human.

Steve “Sure, some, heck I used to play when I was at Belmont, why?”

Debbie “Still follow it?”

Steve “Some.”

Debbie “Know anything about two boys named Fisher? Robbie and Justin?”

Funny, he always had enjoyed Basketball and to be even mentioning it, let alone discussing it with Debbie Winston was too bizarre for words. There would be no one in the gang that would believe this when he told them and while he had to admit that Debbie had peaked his interest, he still felt that he didn’t want to help her, after all a leopard didn’t change its spots, now did it?

Steve “Yeah, Robbie stunned everyone with his performance last year. Everyone expected him to go to some hotshot University program but I hear he didn’t, his brother though is touted as being even better, why?”

Debbie “Justin Fisher is dead Steve, sorry, and Robbie, he tried to kill himself a few days ago.”

It was almost as if someone had kicked him full in the stomach. He felt a bit light headed even as the words penetrated him. Justin Fisher dead? It was impossible but he knew better than to voice his dismay, but he had to say that it was almost as if the boy had been one of his own kids. Strange, how you followed something, whether it was sports or television shows or whatever and became close to some of the players or actors. It was almost as if you made them into family and when something like this happened, shit you felt it deeper than if it had been some long lost relative.

As the words penetrated his mind, he knew that the Fisher’s had to be reeling from all the bad news. Why would someone as talented as Robbie try to kill himself and worse, to then lose his younger brother days later? Man, the kid must be going through hell about now and he could see the image of Robbie Fisher. Damn he was good, real good and the way he was so intense, it was still a puzzle as to why he hadn’t gone on to university. There had been talk that perhaps drugs had been involved but from what he had seen of Robbie Fisher there was no way the kid would touch drugs. Basketball was the kid’s life, or so it seemed and now Justin was gone too? Damn the world was sick and crazy and he felt more like 80 than 40, slumping a little as he felt the loss deeply.

He stood up straight now, his eyes a bit glazed as he felt for the boy’s family, no one should have to go through life outliving a child, especially a talented boy like Justin Fisher most certainly was, at least by all accounts that he had read. Hell, he even had seen the kid play last year, and there was no doubt that he had the moves, the makings of a really hot prospect. It dismayed him that he would be playing for Mount Doug, but if Belmont couldn’t win the Island, at least the Island would stand a good chance against the mainland, and that counted.

Steve “Shit, sorry, for real? But, I mean Justin is only, what 16?”

Debbie “Yeah, just, and here’s the thing, CH News, that Askew and another reporter, Mathews, are doing a piece on that tonight.”

Steve “A piece? What, that the kid died or, shit no way they’re going to report about the suicide attempt too, are they? What jerks!”

She knew now that she had Steve’s attention fully and in her heart she felt a strange beat happening. It was almost as if part of her was being awakened that had been dormant for way too long. Debbie couldn’t explain it, all she knew was that it felt good to be talking this way to Steve, not bullying him or quoting rules or anything, just talking like co-workers should talk.

Debbie “Well yeah, they are, but I think they have something else. Steve, this whole thing, it doesn’t add up, there are too many coincidents for my liking; first the older brother never goes on to University, then he tries to kill himself, shortly after his younger brother is dead from some ‘bike’ accident at the family cabin on one of the islands. It just doesn’t make sense, Steve.”

Steve narrowed his eyes as he listened to the list of actions. Debbie was certainly right that it just didn’t add up and how did a kid like Justin get into a bike accident over on one of the islands? He could see in her eyes that she was fired up, a look he had rarely seen in any of the people here, but when he had, all hell would break loose and he could sense that this was going to be another one of those few and far in-between times when Social Services actually tried to do what it was set up for… to help the kids.

Steve “No it doesn’t does it? So, what is it you want from me though?”

Debbie “I need to find out what CH has, before they air it tonight, and I think I have a way we can do that, but I’ll need RCMP help. That’s where you come in, I need some muscle, Steve.”

Steve “Geez Debbie, I don’t know, I mean unless you have a bit more than a hunch, I just don’t see what my contact can do, or anyone there for that matter.”

She knew he was right, but looking at him, seeing the expression in his eyes she knew she had him hooked. All she needed to do was convince him that it was worth the effort, that there was a way to actually do this without dotting all those ‘i’s’ and ‘t’s’ that she was always yelling about. Christ, was she actually thinking this? Her? Well it was too late to back out now, besides it felt rather nice to feel the fresh air on your face from doing what you knew in your heart was the right thing to do. She could no longer stop what she was trying to put in motion than she could not eat, and maybe that was the whole thing. Maybe she couldn’t win this one but by at least trying, she could feel she was alive for a change, not just marking time.

Debbie “Well, they have to be pretty steamed about that episode in Nanaimo aren’t they?”

Steve “That’s being polite about it, yeah, so?”

Debbie “This might be a chance to get even.”

Steve “I don’t see how, I mean this has nothing to do with that case, does it?”

Debbie “No, but if we suspect that they are withholding critical information, isn’t that sufficient grounds to seize records and notes? Besides, aren’t the RCMP already investigating them for possible obstruction?”

Steve “No, the kid and his family have dropped their complaint. It’s a guess, but I am thinking CanWest settled out of court. The officer named, however, might pursue it, but it would be tough.”

Suddenly the promise of doing something pre emptive seemed less likely, and she had banked on the RCMP already having one investigation going, one she could perhaps broaden to include this, but if they weren’t even doing anything to keep their own asses clean, how the hell could she manage to get this one into the mix? Maybe Sy over at the AG’s could help, she thought, knowing that he owed her for a favour she did when she first came into the job. At the time it didn’t seem much but then she was naïve and fresh. Her eyes were focused on Steve though, as her mind moved quickly into ways she could perhaps force some action, any action to at least get her something. There had to be a way, and somehow she just knew that this was a much larger case than what met the eye.

Debbie “Aren’t they conducting any investigation?”

Steve “Well, that would have to come from the AG’s office, so far he hasn’t moved on it.”

Debbie “What if he did? What if he included that into a broader investigation, say that CH was not only manufacturing news but hindering on-going investigations, would that get your contact’s support?”

Steve “Yeah that would do it, but how the hell you going to do that? Hell the AG is under enough fire now for some of his comments, how are you going to get him to sanction something like that?”

Debbie “I think I can through one of my contacts in his office. The guy owes me big time Steve, I am calling in my IOU’s on this case.”

He had to admit, she was a totally different person as she spoke about this case. He doubted if she could deliver, but it would be fun watching her try and up until a few minutes earlier, he would have enjoyed seeing her fail; but now, well things seemed changed and for whatever reason, he hoped she would win. The odds were stacked against her as he well knew, but then stranger things have happened. Hell, he wouldn’t mind seeing a victory for the kids more often, maybe if she did get this through, maybe she could push for some of the changes. After all, she had seniority, she was considered part of the ‘club’ and that could help.

Steve “Oh? Why?”

Debbie “Fair question I guess. I don’t know to be honest, maybe it is just time that I stopped being the perfect case worker. Maybe its time to start taking chances so that the real job gets done, maybe its something else, I just don’t know really why, just that I have to at least try. Does that make any sense?”

Steve “Sure, but you? Sorry Deb, Debbie, it is just that, well you of all the people here, this is so…”

Debbie “Out of character? Yeah I guess it is. Maybe that’s one more reason why, I am tired of looking at myself in the mirror and seeing what I see, maybe its time for a change, maybe it is time I accepted being ‘Deb’ and not just ‘Debbie’ or ‘Ms. Winston,’ I just don’t know.”

It really was like watching a complete makeover happen right before his eyes. The way she became animated when she spoke about the job now, you could tell that the fire inside was burning hot and he had to admit, it was kind of starting to burn inside for him too. He still didn’t think that no matter who owed her, unless it was the AG himself, that she could get this done in time. But damn, it was rather exciting to think it might happen. Just that whole concept of actually being able to do something that was based on the kids and not for headlines or position or politics was exhilarating. He didn’t know why but he suddenly thought that Debbie Winston looked rather attractive and he smiled.

Steve “Well, if you are serious about this…”

Debbie “I am Steve, more than you or even I realize, I think.”

Steve “If you can get the AG to issue the order, get a Judge to go along, my contact will rush it through; but if they are airing it tonight, you don’t have much time left.”

Debbie “I know, but I had to make sure that the RCMP would help. Can you check and let me know while I go and get things rolling on my end?”

Steve “Yeah, I’ll go call now, you sure you really want to do this? If they have nothing, it could really backfire.”

Debbie “I know, I’ll cross that bridge if I have to, but I think they have something that will give me what I need to at least know where to look.”

Steve “Okay, I’ll let you know the answer as soon as I can.”

Debbie “Thanks Steve, appreciate this.”

Steve “Yeah, uh sure.”

Debbie squared her shoulders as Steve left to go make his own calls. It was a gamble and she knew that she could wind up losing everything she had achieved up to this point but as she dialled Sy’s number she knew none of what she had achieved was worth shit if there were more Cory Treat’s left to fend for themselves. Somehow she just knew that there was something very wrong with the Fisher family and it had put both boys at risk. What it was she didn’t know yet, but she would be damned first before she would just give up.

As she waited for Sy to get back to her after a rather lengthy call, she looked at her files and once more she opened up the school records that had been sent over. She had already seen them unofficially but still maybe she had missed something in them, maybe there was some clue as to what was going on with the Fishers. Her mind was in a thousand different places it seemed as she kept glancing at the clock waiting to see if the AG would or could be convinced into acting. She hoped that Sy would be convincing, wishing partly that she could handle that too but there just wasn’t time. If Sy came through, she also knew exactly which Judge she would take it to, knowing he was a strong ‘law & order’ type and that he hated the press almost as much as she did. If only Sy would hurry and call, if only she could find that missing piece that would get her started, if only Myron would call, and as she kept going back and forth, she had to admit, it felt good.

Part 2

He had been torn at which way to go at first, as he had heard the dispatch call go through and he had immediately called in to Dale to find out what he thought. It was a good move too, all things considered, and somehow he just knew that this was going to be a story that would rocket him right up to the spot of being an ‘untouchable’. It was what his dreams were made of and so he explained it to Dale, the call he had heard and what it might afford them. Gordie wasn’t too surprised when Dale told him to head straight for VGH and that a camera crew would meet him there. At the same time he said he’d get in contact with Jake and have him stake out the Fisher home with another camera crew. The fact that Dale was putting two crews out on this proved to Gordie that he was right, this was his golden opportunity and he turned his sports car around and headed back towards the Island Highway and Victoria General Hospital.

Jake Mathews took Dale’s phone call while on his way into the station. He had gotten a copy of the police report, thanks to a promise of some tickets to a concert coming up, and he had glanced at it rather quickly. From what he had seen, there really wasn’t much but he did find it curious that Justin had gone to the apartment in the first place. If he knew that his brother was in Eric Martin or at least the hospital, why would he go to that apartment? Was he there to perhaps meet this Josh Goldberg or was it really coincidence? His mind was thinking of so much that he almost missed the turn off but there was something just not right about where Justin had been found, and the fact that it was Robbie Fisher’s lover who had found him. Was there maybe a fight and the Goldberg boys were covering it up? Could that be it but, if there was a fight, why didn’t the Doctor mention it in his report, surely there would have to be evidence of that?

He parked his car down at the end of the street, noticing that it was rather full considering the time of day but then he realized that the news was most likely getting out to friends and family and that they would naturally converge on the Fisher home itself. He started to watch and he noticed Coach Hardy arrive with another man. Well, if he was here perhaps so too was Walt Fisher, and maybe he would get the task of interviewing the boy’s father. He waited, hoping that the camera crew would get here soon, because if Mr. Fisher were here, this would be the perfect time to get some hot quotes for the first broadcast.

Gordie pulled around to the front of the hospital entrance, seeing a patient drop off spot open and so he quickly wheeled his car into the spot and sat there, waiting for a moment or two as he tried to decide what to do first. It would take a bit of time for the camera crew to arrive and get set up so he decided to head into the hospital and see if he could get any news on Tommy Fisher and also to maybe find out who of the family were here already. He was kind of hoping that Walter Fisher, the father, would be here; it would make an excellent back drop for the story and besides, questions of a grieving father at the hospital was always more of a draw than if they caught him at home in his living room.

Victoria General Hospital had been built by the Social Credit Government of Bill Bennett and had been a supposed marvel of engineering but its twin tower design had left a lot to be desired in functionality. The place was a real nightmare for patients and visitors and he could imagine just how it must be for the workers inside the place. The front admission’s desk didn’t seem to know much, but that wasn’t unusual as they directed him to the Emergency Room. That too clearly showed how poorly designed the place was, at least if you compared it to the one at the Royal Jubilee. This room was so damn tiny that you really had to wonder about the guy who designed it.

The admitting or triage desk was right in front of the actual ER doorway, and if you had one person being looked at, the next in line blocked off the door and that certainly didn’t help much when an ambulance pulled up. It really was all rather tiny too but he did have to admit one thing, the actual treatment area was huge and well thought out. The main nurse’s station there had a bird’s eye view of all treatment rooms. None were left out of sight really which the Jubilee didn’t have, so maybe it was a good trade off, the people waiting weren’t considered and the people needing treatment were. Weird why they couldn’t do both but then he still thought having the ambulances enter the hospital through a round-about way was stupid, instead of a direct entrance off the highway.

Gordie Askew had to wait for several minutes before he could talk to the admitting clerk and he found out that Tommy Fisher was still in the treatment area and that his only visitor was his local priest. He got the name and decided that he would wait outside for the camera crew, knowing that for now they would set up just outside of the ER entrance way. There was room to cover both entrances really, and if the camera crew had more than just a cameraman and sound engineer, he could station the extra man at the main admitting desk to give him a sign if anyone asked for Tommy Fisher. He would stay near the ER door, knowing what Walter Fisher looked like, so that at least was covered. Now if any other family members showed up he would rely on getting some sign from either the admitting clerk or by having an added body by the desk. He could use the sound engineer if needed but he’d wait first to see which crew showed up. If it were the main crew, then he would have the bodies he needed to cover both admitting desks, if not well he’d improvise.

The van parked just behind Jake’s car and he climbed out with his notebook still in his hands. He was fairly certain that Walter Fisher was still home, the family SUV was in the driveway and judging by the people entering, and hardly any leaving, he was convinced that he was still at home. This could be his chance, his opportunity as he walked over to the crew, not noticing the two young boys standing on the sidewalk watching him. He had seen the one who had been sitting on the front steps of the house he was parked in front of, but he hadn’t noticed the other one show up. Both of them were tall rather good-looking young boys but his mind and focus was on the Fisher home.

Jake began to discuss the setup with the sound engineer and cameraman when one of the boys walked up closer and asked him what they were doing. He really didn’t have time for them but turned and smiled, telling them they were covering a story for CH News. It seemed to impress the taller boy and then it hit him, maybe they knew Justin Fisher, might be worth an interview or at least some footage to use for later on. You just never knew so he walked back to where the boys were standing.

Jake Mathews “Hey guys, uh, any of you know the Fishers?”

Bobby Jaworski “Yeah, we know them, you here ‘cause of Justin?”

Jake “Yeah, uh, you guys knew Justin?”

Bobby “Yeah, we played ball together, Neil and I that is.”

Damn it, his hunch was right and better too, they played ball with Justin so maybe he could get some inside dope as well. At worst it would make for good background information. He signalled his cameraman to start the tape whirling, just in case he got something useful out of the two boys. The one who had spoken to him looked eager to talk but the other one seemed like he would burst into tears at a moments notice, if that.

Jake “Really? Say, you two mind if we tape this? Get yourself on the news maybe!”

Looking at Jake’s face he felt sick to his stomach. There was no way he wanted to be on television talking about his best friends death, no friggin way and he felt like he would throw up. First seeing Walter downstairs and now this was making him feel like his whole world was upside down or going to explode in his face. He couldn’t understand it, Walt had constantly told him, ‘Real men don’t cry because it’s a sign of weakness, men aren’t weak, only women and queers are weak’ and yet there was Walt, bawling his eyes out downstairs. It just didn’t make sense and the way this guy looked, he didn’t trust him one bit either.

Neil “Not me man.”

Bobby “Come on Neil, won’t hurt; besides, Sam will dig it.”

Neil “Yeah right, like she’d care, shit, you really putting this on the news?”

Jake “Yep, uh you both played ball with Justin?”

Bobby “Cool man, hey I am the team captain. Neil here plays guard. Is it really true that his leg blew apart?”

Sometimes he really wondered why he ever bothered hanging out with Bobby, the guy was so gross at times and it wasn’t like he really cared for Justin. Shit the guy thought Walt was a nut, which just showed you how smart he was. Neil had to admit though, the guy was a pretty good player and everyone did like him, just at times, well at times he was just a jerk.

Neil “Fuck Bobby, do you have to be so, so fucking gross?”

Bobby “Hey just asking, geez chill a bit bro, you’ll have a fit otherwise.”

Neil “Well fuck, let it be okay, bad enough he’s… Shit, I gotta go inside, you talk to the reporter if you want. I think its sick, maybe Sam will get off on seeing you instead…”

Neil couldn’t handle it anymore and he ran back up the sidewalk and went racing inside of his house, wishing that his mom would come home or worse, even wishing that his dad were here, but he had no dad, least not anymore. The tears were welling up and cascading down his cheeks as he fell face forward into his bed, his face buried into the sheets and his sobs started to echo in the small room. He wanted to stop, at least part of him did but deep down inside, in a place he had rarely visited over the last few years he felt a cheer rise up, a gladness that he was crying and he couldn’t summon up the strength to fight that feeling. His body shook to the sobs as he cried for his lost friend and for Walt.

Jake watched as Bobby turned and watched his friend scamper into the house. The sound of the door slamming shut certainly made its point but the young boy didn’t seem too upset by it, which was good. He didn’t know why but every part of his instincts were on high alert, as if he had just stumbled onto something that would be more than he could have hoped for. Whatever these boys knew, he was certain that they didn’t realize it, making it even more tantalizing for him. He always loved a good challenge and was glad that Gordie had been sent to VGH. The story was here, of that he was certain as he waited a minute or two before going forward. Jake took a deep breath and smiled, hoping he looked sincere enough.

Jake “Didn’t mean to get your friend all upset there…”

Bobby “Neil? Nah, he’s okay, he and old man Fisher are real tight and it was like he and Justy were brothers, they were always together pretty much.”

Jake “Really? Justy? That what you guys called him?”

Bobby “Yeah sometimes, ‘Jet’ was another, man he could fly down the court sometimes, he really had the speed you know?”

Jake “Yeah uh, just a sec, hey you guys rolling?”

Engineer “Yep, we got it all so far.”

Jake “Okay keep it rolling; sorry, just making sure we got it all, so Justin was fast huh?”

Bobby “Yeah, he really could burn man, but he had the shots too, you know what I mean?”

Jake “Yeah, so he was good in all aspects, huh?”

Bobby “Huh? OH yeah, he played it all, man he was tough on “D” too! I mean he really had the moves; its gonna be tough without him, he was really awesome on the court.”

This stuff he could get anywhere, but he had listened, acting as if this was what he wanted when he knew the next question would hopefully open the boy up and give him what he really wanted, the true picture of young Fisher and maybe then he could find out just what really had gone on, why he had died and perhaps even why Robbie Fisher had tried to kill himself. This was the part of his job he loved the most, the scent of being on the trail of a really good flashy story that would open up more than just one can of worms. This was what being a reporter was all about, leading your source to a point where you got intimate details without them even knowing they had spilled their guts until they saw themselves on television. He felt the exhilaration in his body and wondered if his date from this morning was better, because he sure did want some of her special treatment after he put this story to bed for the night. He grinned a little inside, feeling how damn awesome he was feeling, not to mention how horny he was too.

Jake “Yeah? How about off the court? You and him hang out together?”

Bobby “Nah, he was either hanging with Neil or with his girlfriend, Betty; besides, we did different stuff, you know?”

Jake “Betty? Do you know her last name?”

Bobby “Uh not really, Braith something or other, she’s okay. Bit of a snob but she sure liked Justin.”

Jake “He was popular then? I mean with the girls?”

Bobby “Well he didn’t have any troubles with them, runs in the family, his older brother was a stud too.”

Jake could feel his excitement rising at the way Bobby Jaworski was talking. The kid was a dynamite source and he didn’t even realize it. The mention of Robbie gave him an opening he would have died for and he wasn’t about to lose it either but he knew he had to be careful, he didn’t want to spook the kid either. Damn this was what it was all about, so he thought as he looked at Bobby from under his eyes, acting like he was actually writing this stuff down even though it was all being recorded.

Jake “Older brother? You mean Robbie? You sure of that? I mean that Robbie was a lady’s man too?”

Bobby “Yeah, he always had the hot one’s chasing him, all he had to do was lift his finger and they were his. Justin was no different.”

Jake “So there wasn’t any indication that Robbie was uh, well that he might be gay?”

Bobby “Huh? What? Get off it man, Robbie Fisher a fag? Shit no way man!”

The look on Bobby’s face was a contrast to the words. There had been a momentary flash in his eyes, almost as if he knew something, almost but he hadn’t gotten it all and the way the boy stood up tall, like ready to fight even was certainly a bit too much of a posture for that simple question. No, young Bobby had something he knew; the question was, what was it?

Jake “You sure of that? I mean Justin never mentioned anything that would make you think his brother was gay or anything like that?”

Bobby “Hey what are you pulling man? Shit no way Robbie was queer, fuck he was the one always who got the bedroom at the parties man, and it wasn’t with no damn guy, shit, who told you that crap?”

As much as he wanted to press, Jake knew that it would only make things more difficult, especially if he wanted to interview him again later on. No it was best to drop it for now but there was something about the anger in Bobby’s voice that just didn’t seem to ring true. He knew in his gut that he had touched a raw nerve and he looked closer at the Mount Doug basketball team Captain, wondering what it was that he knew, wondering who else knew what Bobby knew?

Jake “Well, you know how some talk, just a rumour but we have to check these things out you know.”

Bobby “Yeah, well no fucking way was Robbie Fisher queer man. Hell, he got into some good fights because of all the girls he had chasing him, some guys didn’t like it much.”

Jake “Oh? He get into many fights, Robbie that is?”

Bobby “Shit, couple every now and then, no big deal. He’d get sent to the Councillor or his old man would get called if it was a bad one, no sweat though.”

His instincts were right on not pushing, already Bobby had said much more than he perhaps might want. The idea that there were lots of fights with Robbie and classmates was interesting, because from what he had seen of the school records, there sure weren’t too many of those listed. He wrote down in his book a reminder to go through the reports again and to also schedule a meeting with the boy’s councillor. If he saw the Fisher boys on any matter, it was supposed to be recorded and he was sure that neither boy’s record showed multiple conferences. Another point worth following up on he thought as he continued to pump young Bobby.

Jake “What about Justin? He get into many fights too?”

Bobby “Hell yeah, well not so much after he started going out with Betty, that pretty well kept things cool.”

Jake “She kind of settled him down from chasing all the others, huh?”

Bobby “Nah, he still had a few on the side. Just that he was good at using his fists man, he was one tough dude when he had to be!”

Jake “I see, so did all those fights he had off the court affect him? I mean if he were such a natural player, how come he wasn’t made team captain instead?”

Bobby “Shit that’s easy, I haven’t knocked the crap out of most of the guys on the team like he had. Justin, he seemed to get into fights a lot with some of the guys, nothing serious mind you, they were just envious I guess.”

Jake “Not you?”

Bobby “Oh we got into it once or twice, but hell, he was a cool dude. I mean he never really held a grudge, not like some; besides like I said, ever since he started going out with Betty, well he seemed to cool the romantic jets if you know what I mean. Think his old man saw to that.”

Christ he wished he could just take this kid aside and sit him down and pump him harder. The kid was a fountain of information and he knew that they would talk again later, there was so much he knew and now even about the father? This was indeed getting to be the story he knew it was the instant he had heard the commotion in the Emergency Room at RJH. Christ, Gordie would be pissed at missing out on this but screw him, after all, this was his story and so why shouldn’t he get the credit and the glory? Jake silently thanked his lucky stars for Dale sending Gordie to VGH instead of here, and he knew that Gordie was going to be royally pissed, which made him smile. He kind of enjoyed the idea of having Gordie pissed off.

Jake “You mean Mr. Fisher knew about the fights and the reasons?”

Bobby “Hell there isn’t much old man Fisher didn’t know about Justin or Robbie either for that matter. He sure is one of those ‘gotta know it all’ types!”

Jake “Maybe he was just being a good father?”

Bobby “Well I don’t know. Neil thinks he’s super but I don’t know, bit strange I think.”

Jake “How so?”

Bobby “Just weird, that’s all, a real control freak ya know? Always asking questions, like it’s any of his business what I or anyone else does, just weird is all.”

Again his instincts seemed to kick in and he knew that he should direct the questioning away from what Bobby was saying. There was something in how Bobby looked that almost seemed to make him think that there was a lot more to Walter Fisher than he had been led to believe. ‘A real control freak’ were the words and yet, it seemed to be merely a cover, as if there were much more to the story.

Jake “Your friend Neil, he’s close to Mr. Fisher?”

Bobby “Yeah, ever since his real dad skipped out, guess he thinks of old man Fisher as his sort of step dad. Old man Fisher sure acts like it at times too, they are always going off to the Fisher cabin on Salt Spring.”

Jake “Mr Fisher and Neil and Justin?”

Bobby “No, usually just old man Fisher and Neil or just Justin, don’t think he takes more than one of em. Hardly took Justin much until end of last year, after Robbie left.”

His whole body was tense now, as he thought about what Bobby was saying. He would have to go over the tape later, but the way the boy stood, the way he seemed to suddenly grow quiet even, the way his eyes seemed to become dark mirrors, it was as if there were some dark secrets that he knew about but which he wouldn’t speak about. Damn, if he only had more time to research out the Fisher history or better if he had maybe handled that snotty bitch at Social Services better, maybe he would have the answers. Christ, was Social Services investigating this because of Justin’s death, or did they have something else that they were investigating?

Jake “Small place or what?”

Bobby “Nah it’s pretty fair sized, off in the woods, pretty cool actually.”

Jake “You ever go there?”

Bobby “Once, it was okay. Uh, I should go, better see what Neil is up to.”

The second he had asked the question he knew he should have found a better way to find out the answer. He could tell that Bobby suddenly became more evasive and the way his shoulders were hunched, he knew in his gut that he had blown it for now, but he also knew that there would be a second chance. Whatever else Bobby knew, it would be up to him to find out and after all, he was a reporter and he enjoyed a challenge. His mind was already working on his piece for tonight’s telecast, and depending on what he got from the Fisher home, he knew exactly how he would end the piece. This was definitely going to be a dynamite kick-ass story, and it would be his, and he could already envision himself setting up house in Vancouver or maybe even Toronto.

Jake “Okay, uh thanks for the interview, uh, better give me your full name, address, that sort of stuff. We’ll phone you if we use any of this on the air, so you can get everyone to see your television debut.”

Bobby “Yeah? Rad man, okay, say, you know when they gonna have the funeral?”

Jake “No, not yet anyways, I would imagine it won’t be much before next week.”

Bobby “Yeah figures, he really was a good guy you know, Justin that is, just that…”

In many ways it sounded as if Bobby hadn’t gotten along with Justin, and yet the way he had defended him and his older brother, it was too contradictory for him to figure out. He really needed to look at the tape without having to think about the next question, maybe it would offer some further insight and yet, yet he couldn’t quite put his finger on what it was that was troubling to him. Whatever it was, it had young Bobby confused too.

Jake “What? Just what?”

Bobby “His old man, way too weird man, way too weird.”

Jake wished he could keep this going but the guy was definitely spooked and whatever had him that way, had to do with Walter Fisher, of that he was certain. A cabin on Salt Spring, takes only one boy at a time, shit, this really could be something and he knew that he would have to go to Salt Spring to talk with neighbours and to check out the Fisher place. First things first though, he still needed to get to the Fisher home and see if he could get to talk to the man himself, the one who just might figure more into the story than he first thought. This just wasn’t about some gifted kid dying in an accident and another trying to kill himself, he knew it went much deeper than that. If anything, the last words by Bobby Jaworksi sounded like a warning, or was it perhaps a call for help?

Jake “Okay, well thanks.”

Bobby “Yeah, sure.”

Jake watched the 6ft 2in tall young boy lope up the sidewalk, the easy way he moved showed that he was indeed a good player, his movement was fast and yet looked so effortless but there was something about him, the way he had looked when he said he had been to the Fisher cabin on Salt Spring. It was almost as if a curtain had fallen over the boy’s otherwise excited face. Funny, he had a strange feeling inside and he looked at his notes, wondering what it was that was nagging at him as he signalled for the crew to follow him up the street towards the Fisher home.

The crew had finally arrived and he was secretly feeling rather pleased about it too. He had drawn the “A” crew and he knew for certain now that Dale was 100% behind this story. To send them out here to wait for a possible chance, that was very unusual unless the News Director was convinced that something important would happen. He had one guy waiting by the main admissions desk and another by the emergency desk. He and the cameraman were standing in between the two entrance doors and so far it had been a boring assignment. Gordie just knew though that it would change, once the Fisher’s showed up and there was no way that they wouldn’t either.

Every car that pulled into the patient off loading or the Emergency lot held his attention, until he was certain that he didn’t recognize anyone. He was fairly certain he would recognize Walter Fisher but he was covered in case he didn’t. There had been one or two that had made him wonder and he had waited anxiously for the men inside to confirm anything but so far no sign of the Fishers.

He had already taken a pee break and was contemplating sending one of the men down to the cafeteria to grab some sandwiches or something as they stood around, waiting for who they weren’t sure, when he watched the car pull in to the Emergency lot and then turn around and take a place just next to his own sports car. There was something about it that piqued his interest and he nudged the cameraman who was leaning on the wall.

For a second he felt disappointed as he watched an old man and old woman open the doors and get out. They looked like no one he recognized and was about to look away and signal one of the men inside to come out, when he saw the young boy get out followed by another taller boy. At first he didn’t make the connection but when the third young boy stepped out he knew he had lucked out. There was no mistaking the boy now, the way he moved and all, it was like watching the god damn playoffs all over again. Robbie Fisher himself had come to see his grand father and he couldn’t hide his excitement as he slugged his cameraman and raced over towards the main front entrance door.

Gordie had no idea who the other people were, but this was a lucky break for him as he started to line up the questions in the back of his mind. He could see that Robbie had been crying and he also took the time to note how the other tall boy seemed to be standing close by. Christ, this could be his break as he came up to the boys, knowing that two looked like brothers and he thought for a second that perhaps these were relatives or friends of the Fishers but, as he came closer his heart started to beat louder. It hit him as he came up to Robbie, the microphone coming up from his side, that the tall blonde next to Robbie Fisher had to be the supposed lover, the Rabbi’s son and if so, then the old man and old lady had to be the Rabbi and his wife. Christ this was going to be a real scoop and would certainly make Dale seem like a blasted genius for sending the top film crew too, not to mention him.

Gordie Askew “Robbie, Robbie Fisher… Gordie Askew CH News, how are you doing Robbie? You heard anymore about your grandfather?”

Robbie hadn’t seen the two men running and he was taken by surprise as he felt Josh’s hand reaching out to pull him back, making him stumble a little. He was about to ask him why he had done it when he saw the round black microphone ball sticking up in his face and he lifted his face upwards to stare at the bright light coming from some guy behind another who held the glistening microphone up to his lips. Fear began to pound at his heart and he felt lost again, like he was in a free fall but he could feel Josh’s breath on the back of his neck and he stuttered a little, trying to grasp what was happening.

Robbie “Huh? Who? Leave me…”

Josh “Hey…”

Myron saw the Rabbi and Mrs Goldberg as he drove into the lot, and he also saw the television cameras and swore to himself. It was bad enough that the Rabbi had called to tell him the latest news about the Fishers and to suggest that they meet out here instead of the Rabbi’s home but now to have the press too? Christ this case was like a blasted circus and he knew that it was much more than just some kid feeling lost. He couldn’t explain how or even why he felt this way, but he knew in his gut that this would be something that would either make his career or break it. His problem was that he really didn’t care, least not like he should care and not because it didn’t interest him either, but because suddenly he only wanted to think about being with Debbie Winston.

He shook his head as he saw someone running up to the two young boys and he felt a bit of anger rising up as he slammed the car into a stop. Whatever else he might be thinking about, he just couldn’t worry about parking right now. In his gut he knew that something was about to happen and that he had to be there, he had to be with his clients and so he left the car running, blocking a sports car and the Rabbi’s car.