Page 38 of Flame's Fight

We turn when we hear the men exiting Church. I smile at Flame as he joins us.

“What are you talking about?” Dante asks as he steps up to kiss Tally on the top of her head.

“Dad’s plan for building a clinic near Crossroads.” She responds. “One that helps victims instead of shaming them.”

“Really?” Dante asks. “That’s a noble effort.”

“I’m really excited about it.” Tally gushes. “I think we need to shake up the status quo. Give frightened women a stronger presence in their corner.”

“Speaking of victims not being given the respect and compassion they deserve. Brooke, the detective in charge of the case against Younger, wants to interview you.” Shield tells me.

I frown. “Why say it that way?” I ask him.

“Because I don’t like the asshole. I’ve seen him in action. He always takes the side of the accused when a woman is filing charges. I don’t know what his problem is. Although, my guess is that women often reject him.”

“Why do I have to deal with him? Can’t I get a different detective to take my statement?” I ask.

“You could, but I think there’s a reason our CO assigned this case to him.” Shield says. “He’s heard the rumors, and I think he wants to see how he handles your case. He knows that you being the daughter of a cop makes you less likely to allow him to intimidate you.”

I’m nodding as Flame takes my hand. “You don’t have to take him on. It isn’t your job to fix the cops.”

I smile. “He can’t hurt me. And being forewarned will make it easier for me to remain in control.”

“We want Evie to go with you, or at least be available in case you need backup.” Dante says. “I know you probably feel you’re the one accused of a crime…”

“I’m feeling that way, yes.” I agree. “But that isn’t your fault. Let me see what this guy does. He may not be an asshole, but if he is, Shield’s right. I’m better equipped to handle his attitude than some other woman might be.”

“This is something I want to consider for Crossroads.” Caitlin says. “If we need to bring the cops in for any reason, I want to make sure we get ones who won’t make the situation worse.”

The only way to ensure that is to identify those cops who will treat the victims with dignity. I know my father is one, so is Shield. I can use this opportunity to see if the detective in charge of my case is one we need to avoid.

“I’ll do it.” I say. “When do I need to be down there?”

“Any time.” Shield says.

“Chaos is calling Evie. She’ll be available if you need her.” Dante says. “Byte is doing some digging into Younger’s background at Flame’s suggestion. His attack on you and the subsequent cat-and-mouse game with us leads us to believe that he may have done this before. He’ll get the information to Evie and if necessary, she’ll push to see you. If someone asks you about your lawyer, just tell them she’s yours.”

I nod as I consider his words. I hadn’t thought about the possibility that I wasn’t Tony’s first. But not only was he prepared to grab me after luring me to his office, but he didn’t drive straight to his boat. At least that’s what the guys told me. I, of course, was out cold.

Chaos steps over. “Evie will be at the station in two hours. She said she can meet you there then. She suggests recording the interview. The detective should record it as well, but it doesn’t hurt to have your own copy.”

I nod.

“I’ll go with you.” Flame tells me.

I smile. “Good. But since we don’t have to be there for another couple of hours. Maybe Tanya can help you with some physical therapy.”

Flame groans but laughs. “Fine. Do you have time?” He asks her.

She grins and nods.

CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE: FLAME

I’m not excited about going through physical therapy, but having Brooke attend the sessions helps. Because she’s the reason I want to get back to full health. Her and my bike. Maybe I should think about positioning my bike so I can see it as well for added motivation. Ghost and Brooke sit off to the side while Tanya runs me through a few stretching exercises. She follows this up by testing my leg strength. My right leg is still stronger than my left, but I’m pleased at how much stronger my left leg is today versus the yesterday.

“You’re obviously getting better, which is to be expected. Swelling was primarily the reason you lost feeling in your legs. Practice mindfulness when you’re doing any physical activity, including sex. You want to push yourself, but don’t overdo it. If you feel pain, stop whatever you’re doing. If your muscles feel fatigued, rest them.” She says. “It’s pretty much common sense. You know your body the best, so listen to it.”

I nod. “I will.”

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