Page 278 of 7+Us Makes Nine

The piece of work scuffed my boots. He so much as breathes a word about me to anyone and I’ll make sure his face is imprinted on them. Permanently.

Satisfied I hadn’t been spotted, I headed back to my car. I’d got a name, and two samples of meth from dealers at either side of town. Along with Lucas’s evidence and statement, I had the workings of a case on my hands.

I turned on the ignition and drove away casually, scowling thoughtfully as my mind raced through what I’d found so far.

Looks like the O’Rourkes are back. The one that got away decided to become big time. Too bad you came back to my town, Conall. Shoulda ran off to Mexico. I’m gonna take you down, scumbag.

I made my way slowly back to the precinct, taking unnecessary turns just in case O’Hanlan had squealed already. I knew enough of his character from my time undercover to believe he was shitting himself, and would go back to slinging meth from his spot. Wouldn’t say a word.

I reached the parking lot, confident I hadn’t been followed.

One of the old, corrupt detectives was smoking by the back entrance as I got out my ca

r. He looked my way as I headed towards the doors.

“Jack. I know you think you’re doing the right thing. But don’t go sticking your nose in where it ain't warranted. Don’t think you want to step on anyone’s toes, right?” He paused, taking a big drag from his cigarette.

“We got an understanding in this town. Me and the old boys got these scumbags under control. We take them down, someone else steps in their place. Better to keep the peace, keep everyone happy. In the green, right?”

He flicked his cigarette into the gutter next to his feet. He took a step towards me, one hand in his pocket, the other pointing a finger at me.

“People gonna be smoking meth no matter what. Not much else to do around here. So why not see me and the boys later for a beer. We can work something out. Keep everyone sweet, make a deal. Get it?”

I stopped, my hand on the door. I turned my head to look at the balding, fat detective who was appraising me with bloodshot eyes.

“No. I don’t get it. People come into this town, our town, and start selling meth to kids and junkies? Start intimidating and killing people? And you want me to make adeal with them?” I let go of the door and turned to face the old detective.

“How the hell do you sleep at night? Did you become a cop because you were too much of a pussy to become a gangster? I hope you enjoy spending the dirty money you get on strip clubs and hookers and holidays for your family who think you’re a fucking hero.”

“Whatever you say, Jack. You ain’t got a clue how things work. Just be careful you don’t end up getting yourself in something you can’t handle. Keep running your mouth off, and me and my boys will see you don’t cause any more trouble. Understand?”

He had stepped closer to me as if to intimidate.

I laughed in his face. Then I grabbed his shirt and put my face inches from his.

“Where are your boys now?” I gestured around me.

“Can’t see them anywhere. You threaten me again, I will destroy you. You think you got something on me, doing my damn job? ‘Cause you don’t. All you got is empty threats, old man.”

His eyes widened as I spat my words aggressively in his face.

“You and your boys better leave me alone from now on. You do that, and I’ll leave you alone. Let’s just all do our own thing, right?” I glared at him. He raised his hands, as if he was surrendering.

“Look, Jack. Do what you want, OK. I’m just sayin’ there’s another way. If you change your mind, I’m all ears. Otherwise, we’ll stay out of your way. Sure.”

“Good.” I let go of his collar and headed into the building. I wasn’t sure of the consequences, if any, of what I’d just done. But I wasn’t gonna end up like one of his boys.

Hell no. They get in my way, I’ll take them down too.

I reached the Lieutenant's office a short walk later. I knocked gently, seeing he was on the phone. He smiled and waved me in.

“... yeah, I know Marlene. Right. Ok.” He paused, making a talking gesture at me with his hand.

“Alright. Dinner is booked for 7, be home by 6. No, I don’t want to piss your parents off. Ok darlin’, see you later. Love you too.” He hung up the phone. Marlene was his wife. She usually called him at least once per day to remind him of something. As if he didn’t have enough to deal with.

“Sorry Jack.” He gestured at the seat in front of his desk as he took a gulp of coffee.

I sat down obligingly, leaning forward on my elbows.

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