Page 58 of Nightshade

“Actually, the warrant is still good,” he said.

“No way. Pot is legal now, in case you haven’t heard.”

“You’re right about that. But you jumped probation before that happened. The warrant isn’t for the pot charge. It’s for the probation violation. You understand? The warrant’s still good and that’s why you’re sitting here.”

“I understand that it’s complete bullshit.”

“Well, I can’t say I disagree with you, but the bottom line is there’s an arrest warrant that’s got your name on it. I think there’s a way we can take care of it and not have to send you over to the county jail. But you’ve got to work with me here, Duncan.”

“Work with you how? What the fuck is this?”

“Give me your hands and I’ll take the cuffs off. Then we can talk.”

Forbes reached his hands across the table and Stilwell pulled out his keys and freed him.

“Okay, let’s talk,” he said. “First of all, I’m Detective Sergeant Stilwell and—”

“Talk about what, man?” Forbes said. “I was minding my own fucking business over there when they show up and haul my ass away.”

“First things first. If you want to talk to me and get back over to Two Harbors tonight, you have to waive your rights.”

“What the fuck? You can’t be serious. This is a trap.”

Stilwell didn’t answer. He turned over a piece of paper that he had placed on the table after clearing out the room. He read the Miranda admonishment off it and then looked at Forbes.

“Do you understand your rights as they have been read to you?” he asked.

“What if I say no?” Forbes asked.

“Then you’re on the Express to the mainland and county jail.I’ll alert the probation department and they’ll handle it from there. You’ll need to get yourself a lawyer.”

“Oh, man, I can’t do that. I don’t have that kind of money.”

“Did you listen to what I just read you? If you can’t afford an attorney, one will be appointed to represent you.”

“And how long is that shit going to take?”

“A few days, at least.”

“And I’m sitting in county for some bullshit warrant? Nah, man, I ain’t doing that shit.”

“Look, all I can tell you is I can’t talk to you or help you until you tell me that you understand your rights and that you waive them.”

“Okay, whatever, I waive.”

“Answer the question, Duncan. Do you understand your rights as I have read them to you?”

“Yes, yes, I understand. And I waive. Let’s get whatever this is over with.”

Stilwell pulled a pen from his pocket and told Forbes he had to sign the rights form he had just read from. Forbes grabbed the pen and scribbled a signature.

“Okay?” he said. “Can we do this now?”

“We can sure try,” Stilwell said.

“Then ask your questions.”

“Let’s start with Leigh-Anne Moss. Tell me how you know her.”

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