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There will be more


There was a quick and quiet knock on my window. I grunted and covered my eyes with the crease of my arm. It grew louder and more persistent.

“Go away.” I mumbled irritated and unconcerned. I turned in the opposite direction, trying harder to tune it out. More knocking. I slammed my fist into the bed.

“Alright, dammit! I’m awake!” I turned quickly and found Jeffrey McAlister standing on the fire escape. I sighed roughly. What the hell is that man doing here! I glanced at the clock, at three in the morning no less. Stupid, worthless, god forsaken! The insults continued in the back of my mind while I quickly unlocked the window and threw it open.

“Hurry up and get in. You could cause trouble for me being out here so late and,” I glanced behind him, “with no guards.” He reddened and quickly stumbled inside, wearing his usual designer suit and tacky red, white, and blue tie. I shoved the curtains closed. I stalked over to the other side of the room and flipped the light switch on. He stood awkwardly in the middle of my room, fidgeting with his fingers.

“I’m sorry to bother you, Touch, especially at this hour and this w-”

“Save it.” He looked up quickly, surprised. “Follow me.” I turned away and went into the kitchen with this lap dog trailing behind me. I started a pot of coffee. “I don’t want you to say another word until I have caffeine in my system. Got it?”

What the hell was so important that he had to bother me now? And here, in my own house, by himself? I analyzed his movements and possible motives. Nothing rational came to mind. Well, then. Irrational act, irrational reason. Great. Now I’m going to have to deal with whatever it is. The pot beeped and I poured myself a cup.

“Coffee?” I offered. He seemed surprised, but shook his head.

“Well then, this is a turn on things.” I started as I fixed up my coffee. “I’m not accustomed to the President making house visits.”

He smoothed out his tie. “I didn’t any other choice. You’re the only one I can turn to.” There was a long pause as I stared at him, waiting.

“Good God, man. Do you need to wait for my response for something like this? Out with it. Don’t waste my time.” I glared over my coffee cup. He clenched his jaw, fighting his pride. Yeah, that’s right buddy. You learned to watch your damn arrogance on our first meeting didn’t you? Don’t wear your pride when asking for someone’s help. I’m probably the only one who could get away with talking to him like that. I guess one could say I had him on a leash.

“Well, I…” He started to grumble, then stopped. I started to rap my fingers against my cup. He looked up, fearfully, knowing it was bad omen. Basically signaling him, ‘You better move along now. The chance of me receiving your news pleasantly is dropping like a bomb.’

He stared at the floor and took a huge shuddering breath. “My daughter is missing.” When I didn’t say anything he dared a glance at my face. It revealed nothing.

“And?”

He seemed shocked. “Jesus, woman! Have you no compassion!” He roared.

My eyes narrowed into slits. “You haven’t exactly specified what it is you are wanting me to do about it and how it happened. Do you even have proof? She could be hiding form you in a closet somewhere in that big white house of yours.” I sipped my coffee.