Page 60 (2/2)

Taking another sip of OJ, I look at the man in front of“This is central lockup We’re not in prison, there’s no culture here How do you know so much?”

He’s off defense, and his chest deflates slightly “You’re a rookie” Shaking his head, he acts so wise “You’ll see when you’ve been around a while, it’s one big circle Maybe you get out Well, you’re never getting out, butoffender He’ll be back After a while, we know you And you know us”

His eyes laser into mine, and I nod “Badass”

“Or pussy”

Without another word, he stands and takes the tray off the table in front of hiht not like it, but I’d better get ready

Stuart sits across the glass fro a phone My partner’s dressed in a broeed blazer over a white shirt, no tie He’s also wearing jeans I ht brothers and suits

“How you holding up?” His brown-hazel eyes assess lass

“Apparently I’m a badass”

A short laugh, and he shakes his head “I could’ve told you that Anybody giving you trouble?”

“Nah, just the usual shit you’d expect”

He doesn’t say anything for a moment “I’m sorry you’re in here, brother You killed a worthless piece of shit You did the world a favor”

Shaking my head, I don’t let that continue “I broke the la it’s a matter of whether I’ll find mercy or whether I’ll stay here for the duration”

“I’,” he says “They’re going to try and ht it Melissa got you one of the best lawyers in the country, from what she claims”

“Elaine’s brother”