Page 59 of His to Burn
“There’s a generator here?” Jack asked as we ascended to the third floor.
“Yes. There’s a utility room in the garage,” I said. “And watch your head. The ceiling is low up here.”
“Thanks,” Jack said, but he was clearly focused on the surroundings.
The attic was an open space with no windows, and while neatly organized, almost every inch was filled with supplies.
“Big place and a lot of supplies for one person,” Jack said as he scanned the room.
“He has two sons, one in Florida, one in South Carolina.” I wasn’t sure why I added that totally irrelevant detail, but after a moment, I continued. “He always bought enough for them and their families.”
Jack nodded. “Any girlfriends? People who might know about this stockpile?”
I considered for a moment and then shook my head. “No. He was social, but rarely had people over. He also kept his stockpile quiet. Other than his old clerks and maybe a few delivery or maintenance people, I doubt anyone knows about it.”
“Huh.” Jack grunted.
“What?” I asked.
“Well, the house is probably a target either way, but I’m really worried about wildcards. If you had this idea, someone else will, too,” he said.
I huffed out a laugh. “You doubt my singular brilliance?”
“I’d never.” His expression didn’t change, but his eyes flashed with amusement.
“Good save,” I said. “It’s possible. But all things considered, I still think this is the best move.”
“I agree,” he said, “but I need to keep my eyes open.”
“You’re not alone, Jackson,” I said.
I wasn’t sure what compelled me to say that, but it felt right. Plus, I relied on Jack so much, I wanted to return that favor, not that I was sure I could.
“Yeah,” he said.
Not the most reassuring words I’d ever heard, but I continued. “The house has some features that should help,” I said.
“Like what?” Jack asked.
“Well, Judge Hanlon said he installed shades that blocked light from showing outside, especially at night. I also know he added certain reinforcements during construction to make the house more durable and fire resistant,” I said.
“He showed you how to work all of that?” he asked.
I laughed. “I mean…I know where the controls are, but I kind of glazed over the details.”
“Not an area of interest for you, huh?”
“Regretfully, no,” I said, smiling.
“Seems like he prepared for everything,” Jack said.
“But…” I asked, hearing something in his voice as he looked around.
“Why did he keep his supplies in the attic?”
I smiled again, remembering that fight well. “Trust me, he didn’t want to. One of my first projects as his clerk was to research land use for the neighborhood. He wanted to dig in a bunker, but the city prohibited it.”
“I’m surprised that a judge would actually follow the law,” Jack said.
