chapter 2.32
Jackson
Inspector Heffner just sat at his desk, making me wait.
Inspector Heffner just sat at his desk, making me wait.
After fifteen minutes of hearing him click on his computer, I’d had enough. “Inspector, I don’t have all day. My friend could be in serious trouble. I need answers.”
Finally glancing at me, he said, “What do you think I’m doing, kid? I’m going over the evidence we have on Luci’s disappearance.”
“But you’re not saying anything. What leads do you have? I told you about Lana Richardson. Have you investigated her house? The mansion has a prison in the basement.”
He glared at me. “That’s some heavy accusations. Do you have any evidence to back it up? Because without probable cause, I cannot issue a search warrant. Especially, for the former governor’s home.”
“Hell yeah I’ve got probable cause. Luci was working with an investigation that shows without a doubt that Lana stole my father’s legacy. The woman is a liar and a cheat. She’d do anything to escape jail-time.”
“Where is this evidence you’re claiming?”
Rubbing my palms on my jeans, I said, “I-I don’t have it. A friend does. They’re giving it to the FBI.”
“Then I’ll follow up with them and let you know if we can issue a warrant. Okay?”
“How long will that take?”
He shrugged. “Depends on the judge, but I could possibly get one in a few days.”
“That’s too long.” I was done here. If the police weren’t going to help me, I had to go on my own.
Getting up, I said, “Thanks for nothing,” and stalked out of there.
*****
Lana
My stomach dropped when I saw my nephew standing in the doorway of my office. Rushing over to him, I said, “What are you doing here, Jackson? Who let you in?”
“Dalton might be old, but he still knows me, Lana.”
“So, um, why are you here?” My heart sped up as guilt pounded my head. I couldn’t stop the fear that trembled in my voice.
“Do you know anything about the disappearance of my friend, Luci Mueller?”
My stomach clenched. He knew. Somehow the little pimp knew. “W-Who? Never heard of her before. Why would I know about a teenager’s whereabouts?”
“Then you won’t mind me taking a look in the basement.”
I crossed my arms. “What are you suggesting, Jackson? That I kidnapped your friend and locked her in the prison cell downstairs?”
He chuckled. “Yeah, Lana, that’s exactly what I’m suggesting. If it isn’t true, you won’t mind me checking.”
I made my voice low and threatening, “Do you really think that’s wise, dear nephew? If I am the beast you’re suggesting then if you go down into the house of horrors, there will be no escape for you.”
He turned on his heel and yelled, “You do have her down there. I knew it! Don’t threaten me, Lana. My parents know I’m here. If I don’t make it back within the hour, they’ll come for you. The police are already processing a search warrant, too.”
I watched in terror as Jackson stomped toward the hidden door to the cellar where we used to play hide and seek as children. Hugo stopped him from entering, but I waved him off. Barring him would only bring the police to my doorstep faster. I needed time. Time to think.
Swallowing, my body uncontrollably shook with fear. How was I going to get out of this? I should have never messed with a friend of Jackson’s. Should I end this nightmare now? Release the girl and take my lumps? I had to talk to Preston. He’d know what to do.
Jackson
Charging down the steps, I wanted to kick some ass. If Luci was not okay, Lana would have to deal with me.
A shady looking guy stopped in front of me. But instead of threatening me with a gun (which I was totally expecting,) he smiled.
“My God, you’re looking more and more like Lashes. It’s incredible. What are you doing here, kid?”
“M-Mr. Hamed?” I asked. He totally looked different with a shaved head. He normally wore dreads. “W-Why are you down here? What’s going on?”
“That’s classified. Jackson, you need to get the hell out of here. You’re going to ruin everything.”
Just then a tall dude with sunglasses and a beard walked up to me.
He got in my face and said, “Jackson, what are you doing? Go home!”
And then I recognized him.
“Shit,” I cried.
