NYPD Blue Fanfiction

Vicki's Fanfic

 

 

 

JAMAICAN ME CRAZY

 

 

 

            This fanfic takes place during the summer between season 9 & 10. Enjoy

 

 

 

8:30am

Squad room

 

 

            Greg and Baldwin are in the coffee room. T-Rod is in his office. Andy is at his desk finishing up paper work as Connie and John arrive together.

 

John: (To Andy) Good morning detective.

 

Andy: (Looking up from his paper work) Yeah, mornin’ (To Connie) Hey.

 

Connie: Hey (sitting down at her desk)

 

T-Rod: (As he comes out of his office) Who’s up?

 

Connie: (Looking at the board) Greg and Baldwin.

 

Greg: (Coming out of the coffee room) What’s up?

 

T-Rod: (Handing him a slip) Fresh shooting over on Whitaker…everybody.

 

Andy: (To T-Rod) Any idea when Jr. will be back?

 

T-Rod: Nah…I’m thinking end of the week. The boys in Albany want to make sure they got all their ducks in a row for this case.

 

Connie: (Getting up from her desk) This the one from when he was in Narcotics?

 

T-Rod: Yeah…Government wants this wrapped up tight.

 

Connie: (To Andy) Let me grab a coffee to go…meet you at the car.

 

Andy: (Smiling) I’ll wait here…take your time.

 

Greg: Meet ya’s there.

 

Andy:  Yeah…

 

            T-Rod joins Connie in the coffee room.

 

T-Rod: Any word from Rita?

 

Connie: Yeah, I spoke with her this morning. She’s ah…waiting to hear from the home health care people.

 

T-Rod: How’s her mom?

 

Connie: As good as can be expected. They’re calling it a mild stroke…if there is such a thing. Her dad is doin’ all he can. He needs help with all the paper work and finding his way through the system.

 

T-Rod: Any other family member steppin’ up?

 

Connie: Oh yeah…but right now…she’ the closest and doesn’t have kids to shuffle around. I think she said her brother and sister-in-law were coming up to spend time with the parents…they just need to readjust their schedules…so with a little luck, Rita could be back by the end of the week.

 

Andy: (Popping his head in the room) Ready?

 

Connie: Yeah…

 

            Andy and Connie ride together to the crime scene.

 

Connie: I …ah…(clearing her throat) had a nice time last night (smiling over at Andy)

 

Andy: (Smiling back and letting out a small laugh) You are a cheap date if your idea of a nice time is heavy pettin’ in the kitchen.

 

Connie: (Letting out a small laugh) Heavy petting…you make us sound like we’re 16. Still I had a nice time. It was nice just to be with you…to be near you.

 

Andy: Sorry ‘bout Theo last night…

 

Connie: No need to apologize…

 

Andy: (Stopping at a red light) He’s all wound up over maybe bein’ able to sleep over Peter’s this weekend.

 

Connie: Yeah…he was tellin’ me all about Peter’s pool and Peter’s room and all the cool games he has.

 

Andy: His parents are gonna call tonight.

 

Connie: So…you’re gonna let him do it?

 

Andy (Driving again) Yeah, I think so. I think it’ll be ok…they’re close enough if there’s a problem or somethin’. He’ll get picked up late Friday night and be home Sunday afternoon.

 

Connie: (Looking out her window) Sounds nice.

 

Andy: (Shooting a quick look in her direction) So…you have…ah…any plans for the weekend?

 

Connie: (Smiling looking at Andy) Nope.

 

Andy: Well then. (After a long pause) You’ve been umm real patient ‘bout our lack of …ah…”alone time”. I want to thank you for that.

 

Connie: Not a problem Andy…I understand.

 

Andy: I mean its been a while since we were “alone…together” and all…

 

            As he pulls up to the crime scene, Connie places her hand on his thigh and gives it a gentle squeeze, causing Andy to jump a bit.

 

Connie: (Just before she gets out of the car) I’ve got all the patience in the world.

 

Andy: (Out loud to himself in the car) Glad one of us does.

 

            Andy gets out of the car and looks up. The victim is hanging over the side of the fire escape and there’s a crowd starting to gather.

 

Andy : (To Connie) We gotta get her inside…

 

Connie: (Looking up) Oh man…we should get a uniform out here for crowd control.

 

Andy: (In the apartment) Medavoy….you got to get the body in side. There’s a crowd hangin’ around out there. (Looking for a uniform cop) Beck…get downstairs and keep that crowd away…

 

Greg: ESU is on its way…look at this place…what a mess.

 

Connie: (To Greg) You want us to start a canvass?

 

Greg: Yeah…Baldwin is with the super in the bedroom.

 

Andy: (To Connie) Be right there…(to Greg) whaddaya got so far?

 

Greg: (Looking through his notes) White female ID ‘d as Laura Volpe…24 years old. There’s a blood trail from the kitchen to the fire escape.

 

            Andy and Greg follow the trail careful not to step in the blood.

 

Greg: Looks like she’s been shot.

 

Andy:   No casings lying ‘round…looks like four in the back.

 

            Greg goes down a flight on the fire escape.

 

Greg: (Looking back up at the body) Looks like she took one in the chest too.

 

Connie: (Coming back into the apartment) Andy…boss just radio’d…we gotta go…DOA over on Cheltin.

 

Andy (To Greg) You guys alright here?

 

Greg: Yeah…ESU will here soon…we’ll grab a coupla uniforms to help with the canvas.

 

Andy: You sure?

 

Greg: Yeah

 

Andy :Okay (to Connie) Let’s go.

 

 

            Baldwin is speaking with the super of the building, Gene Bowden.

 

Baldwin: How long has Laura been living here?

 

Gene: About three years now. Never any problems…pays her rent on time.

 

Baldwin: You know if she’s seein’ anyone?

 

Gene: She was seein’ this guy…ah…Robert, something…ah….Walker.  She was with him for a while…he’s on her tenant card as to who to notify in case of an emergency.

 

Baldwin: You call him yet?

 

Gene: No…I just called the cops after I saw what happened.

 

Baldwin: They have a bad break-up?

 

Gene: Nope…not to my knowledge.

 

Baldwin: You notice if she was seein’ anyone new?

 

Gene: She’s been keepin’ company with a girl…noticed they were rather close.

 

Baldwin: How so?

 

Gene: You know…holdin’ hands…huggin’…stuff like that.

 

Baldwin: Happen to catch the girlfriend’s name?

 

Gene: Nah…

 

Baldwin: Can you give me a description of the girlfriend?

 

Gene: Aaahh…white…late twenties…nice build…

 

Baldwin: Laura have any family in the area?

 

Gene: Mom and dad in Oregon I think…

 

Baldwin: So…you didn’t see or hear anything?

 

Gene: Nah…I was up on the fourth floor snakin’ a toilet…I only heard a scream come from across the way…

 

Baldwin: You said you heard a scream? I thought you said you didn’t hear anything?

 

Gene: Yeah…elderly lady across the way…Ruthann Gonzalez. I thought somethin’ mighta happened to her…but when I looked out to see…she was pointin’ over here. I looked down and that’s when I saw Laura.

 

Baldwin: You know where Laura worked?

 

Gene: Yeah…ah…Jones Apparel Company…in the fashion district.

 

Baldwin: Alright…you remember any thing…just give me a call (handing him his card)

 

Gene: We done?

 

Baldwin: Yeah…

 

Gene: Let me go get you that number.

 

Baldwin: (To Greg) Head over to see Mrs. Gonzalez?

 

Greg: I’ll go…you wait here for ESU.

 

            Greg is met outside Mrs. Gonzalez apartment by uniform office DeWitt.

 

Greg: (To DeWitt) How is she?

 

DeWitt: Better now…she was a bit shakin’ up.

 

Greg: K…thanks…ah…just hang out here till I’m done.

 

DeWitt: Gottchya.

 

Greg: (Entering the apartment) Mrs. Gonzalez…I’m Detective Medavoy. How are you ma’am?

 

Mrs. G.: Fine now…never saw someone get shot before. It had me a little rattled.

 

Greg: Understandably so…can you tell me what you saw?

 

Mrs. G.: Yes…I was getting myself some breakfast there in the kitchen when I thought I heard a scream. I went to look out the window, but I didn’t see any one. Then I heard a loud pop…then three or four more pops. That’s when I saw the young girl fall out onto the fire escape.

 

Greg: Did you happen to see anyone else…maybe in the apartment?

 

Mrs.G.: Yes…a black person…I couldn’t tell if that person was a man or a woman. But that person had a gun…and…somethin’ shiny on their chest.

 

Greg: Pardon me?

 

Mrs. G.: The sun must of caught something shiny on that persons chest.

 

Greg: Like maybe…ah…badge?

 

Mrs.G.: Could be.

 

Greg: Could you see how this person was dressed?

 

Mrs. G.: Dark clothes…had a real thick belt and…like I said…something shiny on the chest. I guess I should have stayed by the window to see if that person came out…but when I saw that young girl fall out…all’s I could do was scream and point. Then I ran to call the police…well…ran as best I could at my age…sorry ‘bout that.

 

Greg: No need to be sorry. You did great. Ah…after you called the police, did you go back and look out the window?

 

Mrs. G.: No…I just sat here waiting for the police tryin’ to catch my breath.

 

Greg: Ok then…here’s my card…if you should remember somethin’…anythin’ just call the number here and ask for me. Is there anyone I can call to have come sit with you?

 

Mrs. G.: no thank you. My niece Dolores comes every Wednesday. She should be here in about an hour.

 

Greg: Very good then…Officer DeWitt will be right outside till she gets here. Can I get you some water or anything?

 

Mrs.G.: No thank you…I’m fine.

 

Greg: Ok then…thanks for all your help.

 

 

 

            Officer Knab meets Andy and Connie.

 

Andy: (To Knab) What’s up?

 

Knab: DOA is a black male…Clifford Richards. Looks like he was strangled and stabbed. Super over there…William Parks found the body…co-worker called lookin’ for Richards after bein’ a no show for two days without callin’.

 

            Andy and Connie look over the body.

 

Connie: Ligature marks on the neck.

 

Andy: two big stab wounds in the chest…(rolling the body half way over) two more in the back

 

Connie: (Looking at DOA hands) Some cuts here…could be defensive cuts.

 

Andy: (Looking around the apartment) Not too much disturbed here…

 

Connie: (Walking around) Blood over here on the back of the couch…

 

Andy: Yeah…some here on the chair…let me call ESU…busy day for them.

 

Connie: You want me to talk to the neighbors…you take the super?

 

Andy: It’s your case…you make the call.

 

Connie: OK then…I’ll go see the neighbor.

 

Andy: Ok…call me if you need me. (To the super) Whaddaya know ‘bout this?

 

Parks: Nothing…

 

Andy: (Looking over the super) You’re kinda young to be a super…

 

Parks: Yeah…I inherited the place from my uncle.

 

Andy: How long you been here?

 

Parks: Almost a year now.

 

Andy You know the victim well?

 

Parks: Sorta…seemed like a nice guy. He just got married a few months ago. (Pointing to a picture) That’s him and his wife…

 

Andy: They havin’ problems?

 

Parks: (Shaking his head no) Not as far as I knew Seemed a bit strange though…

 

            Connie comes back into to apartment to ask Andy for a pen. Parks looks her over.

 

Andy: How so?

 

Parks: (Watching Connie leave the apartment) Sweet young thing…marrying an old guy like that and all.

 

Andy: (Tapping Parks in the chest with his note pad) Hey…eyes over here…

 

Parks: Sorry man…

 

Andy: (Shaking his head) When was the last time you saw them?

 

Parks: (Rubbing his neck) Let’s see…today is Wednesday…must have been Monday. She was out front talkin’ to some dude…

 

Andy: (Getting frustrated) Dude? What’d this dude look like?

 

Parks: I don’t know…black…skinny…it sounded like they were havin’ an argument. Couldn’t really tell cause they were talkin’ in some different language.

 

Andy: What kinda language?

 

Parks: I don’t know…my guess would be Jamaican…that’s where she’s from.

 

Andy: How’d they leave it?

 

Parks: Fine…it calmed down after a few minutes. He split…she sat on the stoop and like five minutes later then he (pointing to Richards) showed up…she gave him a hug and they went in…that’s it.

 

Andy Does the wife work?

 

Parks: No…she just hangs out here all day.

 

Andy: Any idea where we might find her?

 

Parks: Nah…none at all.

 

Andy: You know where the DOA worked?

 

Parks: Nah…

 

Andy: You’re just a plethora of information ain’t ya?

 

Parks: Look…give me a break…if they pay on time and don’t cause any problems, I got no beef with them…

 

Andy: What’d you do with all your spare time William?

 

Parks: Just hang out…

 

Andy: Great…I’m gonna need to see the DOA’s tenant card.

 

Parks: You want me to go get it?

 

Andy: Yeah…if it’s not too much of a bother…

 

Parks: Whatever…(leaving the apartment and mumbling under his breath) asshole.

 

            Andy finds Connie speaking with the next door neighbor, Rosaline Blum.

 

Connie: (To Andy) This is Rosaline Blum…she’s been a neighbor with Mr. Richards for eight years. (To Rosaline) My partner, Detective Sipowicz.

 

Rosaline: Nice to meet you. I was just telling Detective McDowell…I was at bingo two nights ago…over at Saint Tim’s…got in around 10:30.

 

Connie: So…when you got in…you didn’t notice anything out of the ordinary?

 

Rosaline: No…

 

Andy: What’d you know ‘bout Richards and his new wife?

 

Rosaline: She’s a sweet thing…from the islands…Jamaica I think.

 

Andy: They get along okay? You ever hear them argue or anything?

 

Rosaline: They get along fine. (Looking away from Andy)

 

Andy: …but?

 

Rosaline: I just thought it curious Cliff getting married like he did/

 

Connie: Why’s that?

 

Rosaline: Cliff always seemed to be…ah…of the delicate nature.

 

Andy: Meaning?

 

Rosaline: He just never seemed the marrying type is all.

 

Connie: Mrs. Blum…if you know something that will help us…just say it.

 

Rosaline: (Looking back and forth between Andy and Connie) I just always thought Cliff was gay is all.

 

Andy: What gave you that impression?

 

Rosaline: Because up till about nine months ago…he spent a lot of time with guys.

 

Connie: How many guys?

 

Rosaline: Just one…but I mean a lot of time…they never did anything in public to suggest they were gay…just a feelin I had.

 

Andy: This guy have a name?

 

Rosaline: Adam…I never got his last name.

 

Connie: You know if he has a key to the apartment?

 

Rosaline: Oh yeah…I saw him on a number of occasions making his own way in.

 

Connie: Any idea where we might find Adam?

 

Rosaline: No…sorry I don’t.

 

Andy: How ‘bout Richard’s wife? Any idea where we might find her?

 

Rosaline: I remember her having a shopping bag from that market over on Passmore.

 

Connie: (To Andy) Big open market…lots of island vendors.

 

Rosaline: Yeah…that’s the one.

 

Andy: So…for the last two days you haven’t seen or heard anything from next door?

 

Rosaline: No…I thought they might be away or something.

 

Connie: What about the neighbor on the other side?

 

Rosaline: Ray Schaff? Mostly keeps to himself.

 

Andy: Do you know if he’s home?

 

Rosaline: I think I saw him go out about 6 or 7 this morning.

 

Connie: Going to work?

 

Rosaline: Yeah…he works over at Family Market over on 15th…works all odd hours.

 

Connie: Ok…here’s my card. If you should see Claudia or anyone else coming around., call that number and ask for me.

 

Rosaline: Ok…sorry  I couldn’t be more of a help.

 

            Andy and Connie take a walk down the hall.

 

Andy: Soon as ESU gets here we’ll go see Schaff.

 

Connie: Ok…in the meantime let me call this in to the boss. I’ll get John to run a credit card check…ah…call TARU to dump the phones?

 

Andy: Yeah…I’ll put a call into call Immigration and see if anything pops up.

 

Connie: How ‘bout BCI?

 

Andy: Get the picture from the living room…give it to the uniforms and have them ask around the market if she’s been there lately. (Walking away from her)

 

Connie: You going to see the super?

 

Andy Yeah…let me go see the stupid super…

 

Connie: Andy…be nice.

 

Andy: I am bein’ nice…he ain’t dead is he? (Looking at her and letting out a large sigh) Ok…ok…

 

 

 

11am

Squad room

 

 

            The four detectives return to the house to fill in the boss. John is busy handing out message slips. Greg and Baldwin are the first to go and see T-Rod.

 

T-Rod: What’s up?

 

Greg: Not too much from canvas. I spoke to a Mrs. Gonzalez who said she got a look at the shooter. She couldn’t tell if it was a man or a woman, but definitely saw something shiny on the chest.

 

T-Rod: Like a badge or what?

 

Greg: I asked her the same thing…she couldn’t say for absolute…but she defiantly saw something shiny.

 

T-Rod: Anyone else see anything?

 

Baldwin: Nah…the building is occupied by mostly college students. More than half were at class this morning…the other half was either asleep or asleep with head phones on…

 

T-Rod: TARU and ESU are all backed up. It’s gonna be a while till you hear from them. I made a point to tell them to put a rush on things for you.

 

Greg: Thanks boss. We got in touch with an ex-boyfriend…he’ll be here in a bit. After that we’re gonna head over to where the DOA worked and see what we can get there.

 

T-Rod: Sounds good…if you guys need some extra help…let me know.

 

Baldwin: Will do boss.

 

            Andy and Connie enter the office.

 

Andy: (To T-Rod) Howzitgoin’?

 

T-Rod: Busy…

 

Andy: Yeah…we were gonna head out to see some of the DOA’s co-workers.

 

Connie: (Reading the message slips from John) Nothing on the credit cards. (Looking a little puzzled) Andy…do you know a Mark Patterson?

 

Andy: Yeah…he’s who I called at Immigration…what’s up?

 

Connie: Message says…I’ll see you after your shift…Sipman. Sipman?

 

Andy: Just Patterson bein’ Patterson…goofy Irishman…anyways…anything else interestin’?

 

Connie: (Looking through the slips) Nothing unusual on the credit cards…

 

T-Rod: Don’t expect to hear from TARU or ESU any time soon…all backed up.

 

Andy: All right…let’s go.

 

T-Rod: Where you headin’?

 

Connie: Richards worked at Social Security.

 

T-Rod: Make sure you keep your radio on…I’ll be in touch as soon as I hear something.

 

John: (To Greg) Detective? A Robert Walker is on his way up to see you.

 

Greg: Good…thanks John.

 

            Greg and Baldwin meet Robert Walker in the catching area and lead him to the coffee room.

 

Greg: Thanks for comin’ in so quick Mr. Walker.

 

Rob: Please…call me Rob. What’s this about Laura?

 

Baldwin: She was found shot in her apartment this morning.

 

Rob: No way?

 

Greg: Yes way. And we were wonderin’ if you could help us figure out who did it?

 

Rob: (Shaken) No way…unbelievable…

 

Baldwin: Rob? You have somethin’ more to offer that no way  and unbelievable?

 

Rob: (Still in shock) We…ah…broke up…ah…a while ago.

 

Greg: After being together for how long?

 

Rob: About two years. We met in college.

 

Baldwin: Why the sudden break up?

 

Rob: It wasn’t as sudden as it seemed. We started heading in different direction right after graduation. We stayed friends…had lunch every now and then…but…oh, man…

 

Greg: So you two split up…when?

 

Rob: Just under a year now.

 

Baldwin: Did Laura happen to tell you who she was seein’ now?

 

Rob: Yeah…she told me she was…ah…likin’ the alternate life style she had.

 

Greg: Meanin’?

 

Rob: She was seeing a girl…Janet Schwab.

 

Baldwin: And this didn’t piss you off…her dumping you for a chick?

 

Rob: No…I told you…we were heading in different directions…(looking down at his hands)…I’m gonna be right up front with you on this…even when Laura and I were together…it didn’t…seem right.

 

Baldwin: How so?

 

Rob: Oh man…when we would have sex…which was only like three or four times…she didn’t seem to…enjoy it…seemed like she was some place else…know what I mean?

 

Greg: Go on…

 

Rob: I think Laura always was gay…I think she fought with it for a long time.

 

Baldwin: And what? One day she just decided it was okay to be gay?

 

Rob: I don’t know man…I just know…what I felt…and when we were together, something just didn’t click with her as far as…man/woman sex went.

 

Baldwin: All those years together and you only had sex three or four times? I find that a little hard to believe.

 

Rob: I’m only telling you what I know….you think I like sitting here telling you about my…my…lack of sex with a girl I dated for two years? This sucks, man…I’m telling you all I know. We dated, occasionally had sex, and then we stopped dating.

 

Greg: What do you know about this Janet Schwab?

 

Rob: Laura met her at a fashion show about six months ago. Laura told me they were getting along fine and were thinking of moving in together…

 

Baldwin: Did Laura happen to mention where Janet lives or works?

 

Rob: Yeah…she lives in Soho…she works in a little shop in the same area.

 

Baldwin: Alright…thanks for comin’ in…

 

Rob: Yeah, no problem. Ah…have you contacted her parents yet?

 

Baldwin: Not yet…why?

 

Rob: Cause I don’t think Laura told them about her being gay

 

Baldwin: We’ll take that into consideration…thanks for the heads up.

 

 

11:30am

Social Security Administration Building

 

 

            Connie and Andy meet with Clifford Richards supervisor, Grace Oliver. She has very little to offer since she is new to the department. She directs them to Geoffrey Lieggi. Andy and Connie sit outside Lieggi’s office waiting to meet with him.

 

Andy: (To Connie, just above a whisper) So…you think…it’ll be okay for Theo to sleepover Peter’s?

 

Connie: (Slightly confused as to where this is coming from) Yeah…I think so. Theo’s really up for it. Why? What are you so nervous about?

 

Andy: I don’t know…it’s…it’s Theo hasn’t had many sleepovers and my concern is…that he may…get home sick.

 

Connie: And if he does, we’ll go pick him up. You said that Peter lives close by, right? It’s not like we’d have to drive to the shore and get him.

 

Andy: (Thinking for a minute) You  like usin’ that word…WE.

 

Connie: (Looking him in the eye)  I do.

 

Andy: (A bit more relaxed) I like hearin’ it. So, does this mean we’ll be spendin’ time together this weekend?

 

Connie: I sure hope so.

 

Andy: Anythin’ particular in mind?

 

Secretary: Detectives? Mr. Lieggi can see you now?

 

Connie: (As they walk to Lieggi office, tugging on the sleeve of his jacket) I sure hope so.

 

Lieggi: Detectives…how can I help you?

 

Andy: Mr. Lieggi, we need some information about Clifford Richards.

 

Lieggi: (Standing behind his desk) What’s this all about? Is Cliff all right?

 

Connie: No sir, he isn’t.

 

Lieggi: What happened?

 

Connie: He was found dead in his apartment this morning.

 

Lieggi: (Falling back into his chair) WHAT?

 

Andy: Mr. Richards was found murdered in his apartment…and we need you to tell us anything you might know.

 

Lieggi: (Still in shock) Cliff is dead? Oh man…

 

Andy: Anything you can tell us would be a real help.

 

Lieggi: (Trying to refocus) Yeah…yeah…ok…I just need a minute.

 

Connie: Sorry…we thought you knew.

 

Lieggi: No…we hadn’t heard anything yet. I was concerned when he didn’t show up for work these past two days…I called his landlord and asked him to check up on him. I was just about to call him back when I heard you were here.

 

Andy: (Clearing his throat) So, you and Mr. Richards close?

 

Lieggi: Yeah…we ar…were. Cliff and I worked closely together on many cases. He was a real softy…he’d okay every case if it were up to him.

 

Connie: What can you tell us about his wife? Claudia?

 

Lieggi: (Looking back and forth between Connie & Andy, then letting out a large sigh) I don’t know if you already know this or not…Cliff was gay.

 

Andy: What about this marriage?

 

Lieggi: It was a sham.

 

Connie: How so?

 

Lieggi: Cliff met her through a case he was working on. Like I said before, he was a real softy. She was having trouble getting a green card. She needed to stay here in the US to get away from some drug dealers in Jamaica.

 

Andy: What was that all about?

 

Lieggi: She told him she witnessed a huge deal and a murder…and now they were after her…to keep her quiet. Somehow she got herself here in New York City…through an aunt…that’s when she met Cliff, he was working on the aunt’s case.

 

Connie: Where does the aunt live?

 

Lieggi: She’s since passed.

 

Connie: Does she have any other family here…in the city?

 

Lieggi: Why all the sudden interest in Claudia?

 

Andy: She’s missin’. And from what your tellin’ us…it sounds like someone she didn’t want to find her…found her.

 

Lieggi: Poor Cliff…I tried to tell him not to get involved…but…that was him.

 

Connie: Do you know if Mr. Richards had a prior relationship?

 

Lieggi: Yes…Adam Moser. They had been together for a few years.

 

Connie: Do you think he may have been involved with this somehow?

 

Lieggi: No…at least I don’t think so.

 

Andy: Did Mr. Richards ever say Adam gave him any trouble in the past?

 

Lieggi: No…I met Adam once or twice…never got that impression. Cliff was open with me about his lifestyle…to a point…I didn’t need all the details of their relationship. Cliff was discreet where as Adam was more…umm…flamboyant about his lifestyle. You didn’t need to ask if Adam was gay.

 

Connie: How did Adam take the news about Mr. Richards marrage?

 

Lieggi: Fine I guess…basically said the same things I did…don’t get involved…be careful. As far as I know…they ended on good terms.

 

Andy: Any idea where we might find Adam?

 

Lieggi: Cliff mentioned once that he was a bartender…I can’t remember right off hand where he worked.

 

Andy and Connie stand together and thank Mr. Lieggi for his time, asking if he remembers anything else to give them a call. They make their way back to the house.

 

 

Noon

Squad room

 

            Greg and Baldwin return from interviewing people Laura Volpe worked with. They report their findings to T-Rod.

 

 

Baldwin: (To T-Rod) We spoke to a few of her coworkers…nothing but nice things to say. They all knew she was seein’ another woman…

 

T-Rod: Janet Schwab?

 

Baldwin: Right…

 

T-Rod: ME called in…Laura Volpe was killed by a Glock 22.

 

Greg: We lookin’ at a cop maybe?

 

T-Rod: Could be…ME also reported semi-fresh bruising on her thighs and ribs…puts it to about two days old. There was also some vaginal bruises and tearing.

 

Baldwin: A Glock doesn’t nessarly mean a cop.

 

Greg: Yeah…but Mrs. Gonzalez said she saw something shiny on the perps chest…dark clothes…thick belt…startin’ to look like a cop.

 

Baldwin: Any seamen?

 

T-Rod: Negative on that.

 

Greg: This is gonna suck. What about prints?

 

T-Rod: I’ll have latent put a rush on it now that it’s lookin’ like a cop maybe involved. You find Janet Schwab yet?

 

Baldwin: We were headin’ there next.

 

T-Rod: Alright…go see her and check in with me…I’ll call latent right now.

 

Greg: Thanks boss.

 

          Greg and Baldwin pass Andy and Connie on their way out. John hands Connie a few message slips as she heads for the locker room.

 

Andy: (To Greg) Howzitgoin’?

 

Greg: Looking ugly Andy…possibility of a cop bein’ involved.

 

Andy: That sucks.

 

Baldwin: Got that right.

 

             Andy takes a seat at his desk and waits for Connie before going to see T-Rod.

 

Connie: (Coming out of the locker room to Andy) Hey…we got a hit on some prints from the apartment.

 

Andy: Yeah…who’s?

 

Connie: Adam Moser.

 

Andy: The ex-boyfriend? He got a record?

 

Connie: No…he’s bonded…works at a bank over on Madison.

 

Andy: (Noticing the message slips) Anything else?

 

Connie: Yeah…this Raymond Schaff…his alibi pans out. He was in the money room all night form 6pm to 2am with two other guys.

 

Andy: Go see the boss and then Moser?

 

Connie: Yeah…sounds good. Umm…could we call this Moser in? I’m starving. I’d like to get something to eat.

 

Andy: Yeah sounds good. C’mon.

 

         After filling in T-Rod, Andy calls Adam Moser. He agrees to come in and see them around two. Andy and Connie head out to grab some lunch. They settle on a deli around the corner from the house. Connie has a turkey club and Andy has a roast beef hoagie. They sit in a booth in the back.

 

Andy: So…ah…I was thinkin’…

 

Connie: (Smiling) I thought I smelled wood burning.

 

Andy: Funny…anyways…about this weekend…I was…ah…thinkin’…we could spend some time together…that is…if you want to.

 

Connie: Yeah…I want to. (Reaching across the table taking his hand in hers) I would love nothing more than to spend the weekend together with you…alone together.

 

Andy: (Looking into her eyes and nodding yes) Yeah…sounds nice.

 

         The rest of the lunch conversation was light and general.

 

 

12:30pm

Soho

 

 

          Greg and Baldwin find Janet Schwab in a small boutique and invite her to take a walk with them.

 

Janet: (After lighting up a smoke) So…what’s so secret we hadda take a walk to talk about?

 

Greg: You know Laura Volpe?

 

Janet: Yeah…we dated for a while.

 

Greg: …but not anymore?

 

Janet: Yeah…not anymore…what’s up?

 

Baldwin: Where were you this morning around 8am?

 

Janet: (After taking a long drag) I got in here at 6am…we got a big show this weekend and I needed to look over some of the clothes we had picked out. Ask Dotty…she was here with me. (Taking another drag and letting it out slowly) And not another question till you tell me what’s up?

 

Greg: Laura Volpe was shot and killed in her apartment this morning.

 

Janet: What?

 

Greg: You heard me…

 

Janet: No way…no way…

 

Baldwin: Why’d you and Laura break up?

 

Janet: What?

 

Baldwin: Janet…quit draggin your heels…

 

Janet: Sorry if I’m in shock over hearin’ my old girlfriend is dead…(flicking her smoke in the street) We broke up cause she was cheatin’ on me.

 

Greg: With who?

 

Janet: Some black chick. I caught them together about a month ago.

 

Baldwin: Piss you off did it?

 

Janet: Yeah pissed me off…not enough to kill her though. Oh man…

 

Greg: How’d you two leave it?

 

Janet: I told her to make a choice…and she did…and it wasn’t me…end of story.

 

Baldwin: So…you just walked away?

 

Janet: Yeah…I guess I did…plenty of other fish in the sea. I hate bein’ lied to and I hate bein’ cheated on…been down that road one time too many.

 

Greg: Janet…if this was a crime of passion…we can help you…but if your givin’ us a bullshit story…well then…your on your own.

 

Janet: Look…I didn’t kill Laura…I was here all morning. If you want to run that test for gunpowder on me…go right ‘head…besides, I wasn’t in love with her…I just liked her.

 

Greg: What can you tell us about this new girl she was seein’?

 

Janet: I saw her once in a bar with Laura. She’s kinda butch…roughneck type.

 

Baldwin: That’s a big help.

 

Janet: Hey…sorry I didn’t take notes.

 

Baldwin: What bar?

 

Janet: Marky D’s…over on  7th.

 

Greg: Would you recognize her if you saw her again?

 

Janet: Maybe…it was dark…couldn’t say for sure.

 

Greg: Laura didn’t happen to mention what this girl did for a livin’ did she?

 

Janet: No…I wasn’t that interested.

 

Baldwin: Now when we go ask Dotty if you were this morning…she’s not gonna lie for you is she?

 

Janet: No…we ain’t that close. Check the phone records…I was on the phone with a Lenny Degan in Philly for the better part of an hour finalizing a deal.

 

Baldwin: We will.

 

Janet: knock yourself out…we done?

 

Greg: Yeah…for now.

 

Janet: (Sarcastically) Have a nice day.

 

 

 

2:15pm

Squad room

 

 

          Adam Moser arrives and Andy and Connie take him to the coffee room.

 

Connie: So…Adam…how long you and Clifford Richards been together?

 

Adam: We’re not…anymore that is.

 

Connie: Why’s that?

 

Adam: He’s married now.

 

Andy: That rub you the wrong way Adam?

 

Adam: Interesting choice of word detective. (Leaning toward Andy) You like being rubbed?

 

Andy: Answer the question.

 

Adam: (Looking away from Andy) No…not in the least.

 

Andy: You ever been arrested Adam?

 

Adam: I’m thinkin’ you already know the answer to that one.

 

Andy: (Getting pissed) Oh, yeah…well see if you can figure out what I’m thinkin’ now?

 

Adam: (Leaning towards Andy again and in a whispered voice) You’re thinking I’m a flaming faggot…

 

Andy: No…wrong…I’m thinkin’ you’re a flamin’ asshole.

 

Adam: Homophobe…

 

Andy: (Shaking his head and looking away) Ppsshh…

 

Connie: Ok…ok…chill…both of you…Adam, how long were you together?

 

Adam: For about five years…off and on…more on than off.

 

Connie: So, when he told you he was getting married…that didn’t bother you?

 

Adam: For a bit…then I got over it. Besides…I knew it would never last.

 

Andy: How’d you know that Adam?

 

Adam: (Returning his attention back to Andy) Because, detective, Clifford is gay. The whole marriage thing was a joke. Is this why I’m here?…is he in trouble because he finally got caught?…and now he needs me to bail him out?

 

Connie: No…Clifford was found dead in his apartment this morning.

 

Adam: WHAT?? (Jumping out of his chair)

 

Connie: Adam…sit down…

 

Andy Oh boy…here we go…

 

Adam: Excuse me?

 

Andy: Sit down Adam!

 

Adam: Oh my God…I can’t believe it…(walking around the table)…for real? Clifford is dead? Oh…My…God…NOOO!!

 

         Adam collapses onto the table in a fit of hysterics. Andy backs away rubbing his head and looking to Connie. She shrugs her shoulders at Andy. They give Adam a few minutes to get himself together. Adam finally sits back down at the table. Connie offers him a cup of water. He finally collects himself enough to go on with the question.

 

Connie: Adam? Can we continue?

 

Adam: (Nodding his head ) Yes…sorry.

 

Connie: What can you tell us about his wife, Claudia?

 

Adam: Not too much.

 

Connie: Anything would be of a great help.

 

Adam: (Tuning his back to Andy) Well…I know he met her while he was working on a case. She told him some story about being hunted by these drug guys in Jamaica and she was having a real hard time getting her card.

 

Connie: Was it his idea to get married or hers?

 

Adam: I think she lead him in that direction…Clifford would never had come up with something like that.

 

Connie: Do you know if she has any family here in the city?

 

Adam: Why aren’t you talking with her?

 

Connie: Cause we can’t find her…

 

Adam: (Leaning towards Connie) Do ya think she was tellin’ the truth then? That someone was after her?

 

Connie: We don’t know Adam…that’s why we’re talking to as many people as we can.

 

Adam: I told him not to do it…I just had a bad feeling about something like this happening. But he told me it would just be for a short time…till she could get her act together…(looking up at the ceiling) Why didn’t you listen to me Clifford? Why?

 

Connie: (Slowly loosing her patience) Adam? Focus here for me…do you know if she has any family here in the city?

 

Adam: Let me think…(long pause) I seem to remember Clifford saying something about a brother.

 

Connie: Do you remember where this brother might live or hang out or whatever?

 

Adam: He had an odd name…umm…oh I can’t think right now…umm…Clifford went to meet the brother in Queens, that I know for sure. You should ask the super of Clifford’s building.

 

Andy: Why’s that?

 

Adam: (Still with his back to Andy) Because he and Claudia hit it off.

 

Connie: And you know this how?

 

Adam: Clifford told me.

 

Connie: When?

 

Adam: ‘bout a month ago. We met for lunch one afternoon. I just wanted to touch base and make sure he was doing ok.

 

Connie: And Clifford told you…?

 

Adam: He said Claudia and the super were hitting it off well together. They would go shopping and sit on the stoop together…stuff like that. See…she didn’t work and I guess he didn’t have much to do…so…

 

Andy: Did Clifford think they were havin’ an affair?

 

Adam: (Still not looking at Andy) No.

 

Connie: Ok Adam…I have a few standard questions to ask and I think we’ll be done.

 

Adam: Fine. Ask away.

 

Connie: Where were you on Monday night between 6 an midnight?

 

Adam: Oh my gosh…just like on TV…

 

Connie: Adam? Please…

 

Adam: Ok…I was bartending over at Justa.

 

Andy: (Taken aback) Justa Tavern? Over on Millwood?

 

Adam: (Finally looking at Andy) Know it?

 

Andy: Yeah.

 

Adam: Funny…(smiling) I never saw you in there…I’m there every Monday, Thursday and Friday…5pm till closing. I’m guessing it’s not your kinda bar?

 

Andy: You’d be guessin’ right.

 

Adam: (Turning back to Connie) Anything else?

 

Connie: I think we’re done here. Thank you for your time. I’ll ask that you stay reachable in case I need you for something else.

 

Adam: (Getting up and extending his hand to Connie) It’s been a pleasure speaking with you. (Pulling her closer to whisper) Him on the other hand…he needs to learn some manners.

 

Connie: Adam…lets just leave it at that…ok?

 

Adam: (Turning to look at Andy as he walks out the door) Fine.

 

Connie: (To Andy) Go back at the super?

 

Andy: Yeah…let me go freshen’ up on my interrogation manners first.

 

            Connie rolls her eyes as she follows Andy out to the squad room.

 

 

 

3pm

Squad room

 

 

            All the detectives are at their desk either doing paper work or returning phone calls.

 

Connie: Moser’s alibi checks out. That was his boss.

 

Andy: The super is on his way in.

 

Connie: You still have to meet with your guy from Immigration…right?

 

Andy: Yeah…Patterson should be here before end of business today. You hear ‘bout the phone dumps yet?

 

Connie: That’s my next call.

 

Andy: Remember to be nice now.

 

            Connie shakes her head as she dials.

 

T-Rod: (Coming out of his office) Greg…Baldwin…see you two for a minute?

 

Greg: What’s up?

 

T-Rod: Latent just called. Prints in the apartment come back to an Arlene Polo…corrections officer.

 

Greg: What the hell…?

 

Baldwin: Son of a bitch?

 

Greg: We’re gonna have to bring IAB into this.

 

T-Rod: They already are.

 

Baldwin: What? How?

 

T-Rod: Capt. Martens just called…he’s on his way up to fill you in.

 

Greg: Great…just great.

 

Baldwin: It’ll be ok Greg…

 

Greg: I hate dealin’ with them.

 

T-Rod: Martens is an alright guy…you can trust him.

 

Greg: Whatever…when is he comin’?

 

T-Rod: Should be here within the hour.

 

Baldwin: (To Greg) Lets get our stuff together…one step at a time Greg.

 

T-Rod: (Standing at Jr’s desk) What’s up with you two?

 

            Andy looks over at Connie. She nods for him to fill in the boss.

 

Andy: So far everyone checks out. We called the super back in…seems he forgot to tell us about him and the wife hittin’ it off.

 

T-Rod: They sleepin’ together?

 

Andy: Nah…I don’t think so…but he knows more that he told us this morning.

 

Connie: (To T-Rod and Andy) That was the phone dump…last call out from Richards apartment was at 4pm Monday to a Weber Andrews in Queens.

 

Andy: Could be the brother Moser was talkin’ ‘bout.

 

Connie: Yeah…got the address. What about the super?

 

Andy: Let’s go see the brother first. (To T-Rod) If the super shows up before we get back, could you have Josh keep him company?

 

T-Rod: Sure…you want to take back up with you?

 

Connie: Nah…we’ll be fine mon’.

 

Andy: (Walking out together) What the hell was that?

 

Connie: Just practing my Jamaican accent? No good?

 

Andy: Keep workin’ on it.

 

 

 

3:30

Squad room

 

            Capt. Martens is greeted in the catching area by T-Rod.

 

T-Rod: Medavoy and Jones are in the coffee room.

 

Martens: Thanks, will you be joining us?

 

T-Rod: Yeah…in a minute. Go ‘head in.

 

Martens: Afternoon detectives.

 

Greg: Captain.

 

Baldwin: Afternoon.

 

Martens: I’ll wait till the boss gets here…if that’s ok with you?

 

Baldwin: Fine.

 

Greg: Good.

 

            All three sit in an uncomfortable silence for a few minutes.

 

T-Rod: Sorry…

 

Martens: No problem. Gentlemen…yesterday morning, Laura Volpe came to see me in my office. She told me she was sexually assaulted by Arlene Polo.

 

Greg: When did this happen?

 

Martens: Monday night.

 

Baldwin: Did she seek medical treatment?

 

Martens: Yeah…she was seen by a doctor over at Bellevue.

 

Greg: So there’s a document.

 

Martens: Yes…she gave me the paper work…I made a copy for you. (Handing the papers to Greg) We’ve been looking for Polo since yesterday. I had no idea she was capable of something like this.

 

Greg: She was violated with a nightstick and a gun? That’s sick.

 

Martens: She was also beaten with the nightstick.

 

Baldwin: Yeah…we just got the ME’s report.

 

Greg: What prison is Arlene Polo workin’ at?

 

Martens: She was at Sing Sing for the better part of six years…she transferred to Rikers two months ago.

 

T-Rod: Why the sudden transfer?

 

Martens: The officials there were running a private investigation on some of the guards on the teers…Polo got wind of it and transferred out before they could start lookin’ into her.

 

Baldwin: What was the investigation?

 

Martens: Some of the prisoners were complaint about abuse from the guards.

 

Greg: Don’t they always?

 

Martens: There’s a new warden up there…guess he wanted to get their trust as quickly as possible…so he ran an internal investigation.

 

T-Rod: He get anything?

 

Martens: A few things…abuse, drug running, protection and prostitution. Polo’s name came up in each one. She made a lot of friends up there. Some who have since been released. Someone got word to her at Rikers about the findings. She took a few vacation days, that’s when she started goin’ off the deep end. (Looking away from the detectives for a second or two) We think someone in our office got word to her about Laura Volpe’s complaint…that’s when she went after Vople.

 

Baldwin: And now she’s in the wind?

 

Martens: Yep…we’ve looked everywhere for her.

 

Greg: what about the new releases? Any luck there?

 

Martens: We’ve been concentrating on where she lives and hangs out…the list for the new released has about twenty names on it. I was wondering if you would be interested in giving us a hand with that?

 

Baldwin: I got no problem with that.

 

Greg: Same here.

 

Martens: Thanks. How’s the case going?

 

Greg: So far, everyone we’ve spoken to has cleared. We didn’t know we were lookin’ for a guard till about an hour ago.

 

Martens: Sorry ‘bout that…we had to make sure ourselves before we released that information. Mind if I take a look at the paper work so far?

 

Baldwin: Here it is…(handing him the folder).

 

Martens: Ok if I use your office Lutenit?

 

T-Rod: Make yourself at home.

 

Martens: Thanks.

 

Greg: (After Martens leaves the room) I still don’t trust them…IAB that is.

 

Baldwin: Relax Greg. C’mon…lets go take a walk while he’s readin’ over the file.

 

Greg: Yeah…ok.

 

T-Rod: Don’t be too long…

 

Greg: Right boss.

 

 

 

3:45pm

Queens

 

 

Andy: (To Connie) What’s this…the tenth door we’ve knocked on…we ain’t gonna get squat from these people.

 

Connie: This could be the one…(knocking harder on the door) you never know.

 

Andy: I know we ain’t gonna get what we came for…that’s for damn sure. I mean…lookit this place…music blastin’…you can smell the pot a mile away, give me a break…this is a huge waste of time, I’m tellin’ ya…they probably got some kinda phone thing goin’…don’t answer the door, the cops are here…ppsshh…

 

Connie: You’re just a bundle of positive energy aren’t you?

 

Andy: Yeah…whatever…lets go…this is makin’ me crazy…

 

Connie: (Walking out behind him) Jamaican you crazy….

 

Andy: (Stopping and looking at her) Whad you say?

 

Connie: (Looking him in the eyes) Jamaican you crazy…c’mon…now that’s funny.

 

            Andy stands and stares at her with a deep frown on his mug.

 

Connie: (As she walks past him) C’mon…I know you’re laughin’ on the inside. THAT was funny…you gotta give me that one…(poking him with the antenna of the radio) That was funny…

 

Andy: (Watching her walk down the steps) Yeah…I’m bustin’ a gut on the inside…you havin a good time here?

 

Connie: (Stopping and looking up at him) Ya mon…(continuing down the steps laughing at herself)

 

Andy: (Walking down behind her) I think the second hand pot smoke has gotten to you.

 

            Connie continues on her way whistling the tune Jammin’.

 

 

 

4:15pm

Squad room

 

 

            As Andy and Connie enter the squad, they see Capt. Martens leaving T-Rod’s office.

 

Andy: (Quietly to Connie) This can’t be good.

 

Connie: IAB? Wonder what that’s all about?

 

Andy: (At his desk) Martens…howzitgoin’?

 

Martens: (Walking to the catching area) Careful…I just might tell you…

 

Andy: (To T-Rod) What’s that all about?

 

T-Rod: Greg and Baldwin’s case…corrections officer involved in the murder of Laura Volpe.

 

Connie: That’s gotta suck.

 

T-Rod: Big time…how’d you make out?

 

Connie: No one answered their doors…I’m gonna call over to Queens and give them a heads up we’re looking for this guy…see if they have any luck.

 

T-Rod: Sounds good…the super is in the pokey when your ready.

 

Connie: Thanks…(to Andy) give me minute to call Queens and we’ll go see Parks?

 

Andy: Yep…

 

            After a few minutes, they make their way to the pokey.

 

Andy: (To Parks) Well, William…I hope we didn’t take you away from anything important…

 

Parks: Nah…I was just…

 

Andy: Lookin’ for a new shoppin’ buddy…or maybe someone new to sit on the stoop with.

 

Parks: What?

 

Connie: Playing dumb isn’t going to help William…we know about your relationship with Claudia Richards.

 

Parks: Huh?

 

Andy: (To Connie) I don’t think William is playin’…I think he’s naturally dumb.

 

Parks: Slow down here…what’s goin’ on?

 

Andy: Did I or did I not ask you this morning if you had any information on Claudia Richards?

 

Parks: You did and I told you…

 

Connie: (To Andy) Yeah…just leaving out the small part about how they would go shopping together and sit on the stoop for hours at a time…

 

Parks: WHOA…WHOA…

 

Andy: (Looking at Parks) Whad you loose a horse or somethin’?

 

Parks: No…no…just hold on…

 

Connie: Go ‘head…

 

Parks: Once or twice we went to the market…but that just kinda happened…we didn’t plan to go together…

 

Andy: And I guess you didn’t plan on sitting on the stoop together either?

 

Parks: Look…she just seemed real lonely is all…she’d sit there for hours at a time some days…I was just bein’ a nice guy and…

 

Andy:…you two sleepin’ together?

 

Parks: (Almost jumping out of his skin) NO WAY MAN…NO WAY…

 

Connie: William…little hint here…when someone reacts like that…the way you just did…we tend not to believe them…

 

Parks: (More settled) Look…all I was doin’ was sittin and talkin to her…that’s it…nothing else…

 

Andy: (Not believing him) And?

 

Parks: And what?

 

Andy: And?

 

Parks: Ok…ok…once she offered me some dope…

 

Andy: She toss in a free lay while she was at it?

 

Parks: No…absolutely not…

 

Connie: In all these once or twice chance meetings and the times you kept her company, did she ever mention her family?

 

Parks: Yeah…she has a brother over in Brooklyn.

 

Andy: (Looking at Connie) What about her family in Queens?

 

Parks: No…her brother was there till some one came looking for him in the middle of the night…then he went to Brooklyn. He’s who she was having the argument with that I told you about…

 

Connie: William…the last call out on Claudia’s phone was to a Weber Andrews in Queens…on Monday…now your telling us he’s in Brooklyn?

 

Parks: Yeah…he’s shackin’ up with some chick…

 

Connie: How do you explain the phone call?

 

Parks: Beats me…maybe he was cleanin’ out the place when she called. How am I supposed to know? Did you check her cell?

 

Connie: (Pissed at the oversight) You mighta mentioned that sooner. Do you have the number?

 

Parks: No.

 

Connie: So when we check your phone records…we’re not gonna find something?

 

Parks: No…you won’t…besides…why would I call her when she lived in the building?

 

Connie: (More pissed for asking a stupid question) We better not…

 

Andy: (Helping her out) What were they arguing about?

 

Parks: I swear…they were talkin’ Jamaican…I couldn’t understand them.

 

Connie: After he left…did you go see what was wrong?

 

Parks: No…I was gonna, but then her old man came home.

 

Connie: William…where would she go to…say…get away from it all?

 

Parks: There’s a little Jamaican club over on 23rd street…

 

Andy: Name?

 

Parks: It doesn’t have a name…its one of those social type places…there’s a Jamaican flag on the front door…she talked me into going with her one afternoon.

 

Connie: You coulda told us all of this when we talked to you this morning…instead of having us waste our time.

 

Parks: Look…I was too freaked out this morning…she told me about the guys who were lookin’ for her in Jamaica…I thought they mighta found her and…I was too freaked out is all.

 

Andy: When her and the brother were arguing…who did most of the yellin’?

 

Parks: He did…she seemed to be trying to calm him down…least that’s how I read it. Am I in trouble here or what?

 

Andy: (Looking at Connie for an answer) We’ll see.

 

Connie: Go home…stay where we can find you.

 

Parks: Right…thanks.

 

Connie: (Pissed) I cannot believe I forgot to check for a cell…son-of-a-bitch (kicking a chair)

 

Andy: Shit happens…

 

Connie: Damn it…

 

Andy: Connie…relax…it’ll all work out.

 

Connie: (Seeing the irony) Sure, kettle…

 

Andy: (Smiling) Guess you’re startin’ to have an influence on me…

 

Connie: (Walking past him while running her hand down his back) Here’s hopin’…

 

            They meet up with Greg and Baldwin in the squad room.

 

Greg: You guys busy?

 

Andy: (Looking at his watch) Why…what’s up?

 

Baldwin: We were wonderin’ if you could give us a hand looking for Arlene Polo?

 

Andy: I’m waiting to meet with my guy from Immigration…he should be here soon.

 

Connie: (On the phone) Give me a minute…

 

Andy: She’s lookin to dump a cell…leave us a few names and we’ll see what we can do.

 

Greg: Thanks Andy…much appreciated.

 

Andy: (To John) Do you think you could sit with Theo for a bit tonight?

 

John: Sure…no problem.

 

Andy: Thanks. We’ll get on this right after I see my guy.

 

Baldwin: Thanks…we’ll be on the air.

 

Andy: Right…

 

5:15pm

Coffee room

 

            Andy and Connie are in the coffee room, standing by the window waiting to hear from TARU and waiting for Mark Patterson.

 

Andy: You sure you’re up for lookin’ for this corrections officer later?

 

Connie: I get to spend more time with you, right?

 

Andy: (Smiling) Yep…lucky you.

 

Connie: (Placing her hand on his shoulder) Got that right…

 

Mark: (From the entry of the coffee room) YO…SIPMAN!

 

Andy: (Startled) Patterson…you ever hear of knockin’?

 

Mark: Right…the door was open. Can’t help it you not behavin’ yourself…(laughing)

 

Andy: (Embarrassed) Sit down Patterson…

 

Mark: (Extending his hand to Connie) Excuse my friends poor manners…I’m Mark Patterson.

 

Connie: (Shaking his hand) Hi…Connie McDowell.

 

Mark: So…how ya been Andy?

 

Andy: Good…

 

Mark: (To Connie) He treatin’ you good?

 

Connie: Yeah…

 

Mark: Cause you know…we’re always lookin’ for good help over at Immigration.

 

Andy: Patterson…

 

Mark: (Holding up his hands) Ok…ok…I had my fun…now, (setting up his laptop) we’ll get to work. Name?

 

Andy: Claudia Richards…ah…marriage records show her maiden name was Andrews.

 

Mark: (After typing in the information) Huummm….not seeing anything. Let me try….(typing in something else)…nope. If she’s here, she got in under the radar. I have a Weber in Queens and a Johanna in the Bronx…but that’s it. Hey, hold on…

 

Connie: What?

 

Mark: Weber’s visa expired two months ago.

 

Connie: Source we have has him shaking up with a woman in Brooklyn. We were at the Queens address this afternoon and got no response. (Thinking) What’s the relationship between Johanna and Weber?

 

Mark: Says here…she his aunt.

 

Connie: She’s passed…a few months ago.

 

Mark: OK…thanks for the heads up. (Winking at Connie) See how well we work together? Sure you don’t want to come over to Immigration?

 

Connie: (Blushing slightly) Sure…ah…(to Andy) guess we have to wait to hear form TARU on the phone dump…hope we get something from there.

 

Mark: What’s up with this girl anyways?

 

Connie: Her husband was found murdered this morning and she’s in the wind…we’re getting pretty much the same story from the people we interview…drug dealers were after her, she ended up here…got herself married and here we are.

 

Mark: The husband a US citizen?

 

Connie: Yeah…

 

Mark: Hold on while I switch gears here…(typing something into the laptop) Husbands name?

 

Connie: Clifford Richards. What’s up?

 

Mark: Just checkin’ something with a buddy over at Social Security…

 

Connie: That’s where the husband worked…

 

Mark: That right…(typing)…here we are…

 

Connie: What?

 

Mark: Checking to see who the death benefit go to…hold on…who the hell is Adam Moser?

 

Connie: He and Richards were…umm…lovers…on and off according to Moser. (Thinking) How much we looking at here?

 

Mark: Just enough to bury you…less than a thousand. He probably never intended to change it…so this marriage this was a beard?

 

Connie: Yeah…umm…what about the IRS?

 

Mark: Good question, but no. You need a Social Security number to collect anything from anywhere…so…

 

Connie: Damn it…(a phone rings in the squad)…ohhh…maybe that’s TARU…excuse me.

 

Mark: (Packing up his laptop) Sorry Andy…wish I coulda been more of a help to you.

 

Andy: Appreciate the effort…thanks.

 

Mark: (Looking Andy over) You’re lookin’ good Andy…

 

Andy: Must be doin’ somethin’ right…

 

Mark: (Throwing a nod in the direction of the squad) I have me suspensions laddie…

 

Andy: Keep them to yourself you goofy Irishman…

 

Mark: (Laughing) Whatever…be well Andy (extending his hand to Andy) and if I can be of anymore help…you got the number.

 

Andy: (Shaking hands) Thanks again…

 

            Andy walks out with Mark. Connie is still on the phone.

 

Connie: ( On the phone) Could you hold for one second? Thanks…Mark…(extending her hand to him) Thanks so much for your time and effort on this.

 

Mark: (Shaking her hand) No problem…(pulling her closer and whispering) take good care of him…he’s one of the good ones.

 

Connie: (A little confused) Yeah…will do.

 

            Connie returns to her phone call. Andy walks Mark to the top of the stairs. After exchanging good-byes, Andy returns to find Connie still on the phone. He takes a seat at his desk and waits for her to finish her call.

 

Connie: (On the phone) Alright, thanks…you have a good night. (to Andy) Ok…here we go…Starting on Monday noontime…four call to a number in Brooklyn…here’s the address…Karen Boxer…been popped a few times for minor drug offenses. Then starting at 6pm the same night…three more calls. Nothing till Tuesday afternoon to an address on 23rd Street…

 

Andy: The club…

 

Connie: …right…then on Wednesday three calls to Brooklyn again.

 

Andy: Ok then…Brooklyn it is…(putting on his jacket) See… told you it would all work out…(smiling) you should try an relax more…

 

Connie: (Lightly slapping him with her note pad) Yeah…I’ll keep that in mind. Stop upstairs and get a picture of Boxer?

 

Andy: Sounds good.

 

 

            When they arrive at the Brooklyn address, no one answers. They knock on a few doors and get very little information from the neighbors. No one seem to know the where a bouts of Karen Boxer. After and hour of speaking to the neighbors, they decide to have undercover sit on the house. Andy gives them a picture of Boxer. They return to the car. Andy radios Greg and Baldwin and fills them in on their situation.

 

Andy: Alright Medavoy…we’ll meet you there.

 

Connie: (Driving) They having any better luck?

 

Andy: Nah…this broad must be layin’ real low.

 

Connie: Where we meeting them?

 

Andy: Anne and 12th.

 

Connie: Ugly neighborhood.

 

Andy: Yeah…they said they’d wait for us to get there.

 

Connie: Mind if I make a quick stop…I need something to eat.

 

Andy: Sure, no problem.

 

Connie: (Stopping at a bodega) Want anything?

 

Andy: (To himself: just you) Ah…a Coke…thanks…

 

            Connie returns to the car with a sack of snacks, a bottle of water for her and a Coke for Andy. As they near the meeting area, Connie sees a black woman running down the street towards them. Looking up the street, she sees Baldwin and Greg giving chase. Connie cuts the car in front of the woman, blocking her path. The woman runs into the side of the car. Andy jumps out, with gun drawn and holds her in place. Greg and Baldwin are close behind.

 

Andy: Connie…your gonna have to frisk her…we can’t do it.

 

Connie: Ok…

 

Greg: Good timin’ guys.

 

Andy: I thought you were gonna wait till we got here.

 

Baldwin: She just walked out of the house. Had no choice.

 

            Connie begins frisking the suspect, starting at her ankles. She moves her way up and finds a Glock tucked in the back of the suspects paints. Connie hands the gun to Greg and continues on. When she is done, Andy has Connie hold the suspect down by the neck while he cuffs her. The sweat on the back of the suspects neck causes Connie to slip off. The suspect then clenches her teeth onto Connies arm and bites down very hard, breaking the skin.

 

Connie: SON-OF-A-BITCH…LET GO…

 

            Andy smacks the back of the suspects head and she releases Connie.

 

Connie: SON-OF-A-BITHCH…OH MAN THAT HURTS…

 

Andy: (Handing the suspect off to Baldwin) Put her in the car.

 

Greg: Should we call for a bus?

 

Connie:NO…NO…It’ll be fine…no bus.

 

            The suspect, Arlene Polo, tries to kick Baldwin in the privates. He pushes her up against the car and gives her a warning. As he opens the door to the car, she refuses to get in. Baldwin pushes down on the back of her neck to help her into the car. She puts up a fight. Greg goes over to get her by the feet and helps Baldwin throw her into the back of the car. In doing so, they catch her head on the frame of the car, causing a deep cut to the surface. Then Polo begins to kick at the back of the seats. She turns herself around and starts kicking at the window. Fearing she may break the window, Andy suggests they hog-tie her. Instead, they use the remaining cuffs to shackle her.

 

Greg: SHIT…now we gotta call a bus.

 

Baldwin: I’ll call for it.

 

            Greg returns to see Andy and Connie.

 

Andy: (To Greg) Get the first-aid kit outta the trunk…

 

Connie: Mother…does this hurt…

 

Andy: (Looking at the wound) You may need stitches…it’s bleedin’ pretty good.

 

Connie: AAHH Shit…no…you think?

 

Andy: We’ll see….when was you last Tetanus shot?

 

Connie: God only knows…

 

Andy: Then I think we should go to the hospital…besides…you don’t know what she may have…better to be safe than sorry.

 

Connie: GOD DAMN IT…

 

Baldwin: (To Andy) Want I should call for two?

 

Andy: (Looking at Connie) Whaddaya think?

 

Connie: (Letting out a HUGE sigh) Go ‘head…FUCK!

 

Greg: (Handing Andy the first-aid kit) Here.

 

Andy: (Looking through the kit) When was the last time this was used…only thing in here is Band-Aids…

 

Connie: See if there’s some peroxide or alcohol wipes in there.

 

Andy: Here we go.

 

            He holds her arm very tenderly and softly begins to wipe at the bite.

 

Connie: Andy…be careful…you’re getting blood on you…ouch…that stings.

 

Andy: (Not paying attention) Just be still…(looking into her eyes and blowing softly on the bite) how’s that?

 

Connie: (Looking into his eyes and smiling) Better…thanks.

 

            Within a few minutes, two ambulances arrive along with three sector cars. Baldwin and Greg talk with the Paramedics. This allows Andy and Connie a few minutes alone.

 

Andy: You want me to ride over with you?

 

Connie: What about the car?

 

Andy: I’ll have one of the uniforms take it back.

 

Connie: Then how we gonna get home?

 

Andy: Ok…I’ll drive over and meet you at the hospital.

 

Connie: Great…four hours in the emergency room…another four hours of paper work.

 

Andy: You’re the one who said you wanted to spend time with me…

 

Connie: Yeah…you sure know how to show a girl a good time.

 

Andy: (Just before the Paramedic comes to see Connie) You behave yourself at the hospital and I’ll see ‘bout getting you some ice cream for the ride home, ok?

 

Connie: (Blushing and smiling) Ok…

 

Andy: K…see you in a bit…(cupping her cheek in his hand) Behave or no ice cream.

 

 

7:30pm

Belleview

 

            Andy, Greg and Baldwin are in the waiting area of the emergency room waiting for T-Rod and Capt. Martens. Andy takes a minute to call John and explained the situation to him. John tells him to take his time, there was no rush. A few minutes later the boss’s arrive. Greg and Baldwin speak with Martens and Andy speaks with T-Rod, filling him in. It’s not long before more brass show up.

 

Andy: What’s with all the brass?

 

T-Rod: Call went out as officer down…just making sure everything is alright.

 

Andy: She’s gonna be pissed.

 

T-Rod: She’ll get over it. How is she by the way?

 

Andy: Good…pissed but good.

 

T-Rod: You get her home?

 

Andy: Yeah.

 

T-Rod: Let me go see what’s goin’ on…

 

Nurse: Detective Sipowicz?

 

Andy: Yeah…here.

 

Nurse: You can go see Detective McDowell now if you like. Curtain area three.

 

Andy: Thanks.

 

            Andy finds Connie sitting on the edge of her bed.

 

Andy: Hey.

 

Connie: Hey…what’s goin’ on out there?

 

Andy: Nothin’…just some brass and whatnot.

 

Connie: BRASS?? What the hell?

 

Andy: Call went out as officer down…must have been a mix up.

 

Connie: Great.

 

Andy: How you?

 

Connie: K…they…ah…gave me some antibiotics and took some blood to…ah…test for AIDS and some other stuff. Results should be back within 48 hours.

 

Andy: (Seeing Connie is upset) You sure your ok?

 

Connie: Yeah..its…

 

Andy: What?

 

Connie: Not knowing…having to wait…and with a holiday weekend coming up it’s more likely to be 84 hours before I hear something…and what if something shows up, then what?

 

Andy: Connie…you’re getting a little ahead of yourself here.

 

Connie: You’re not the one they’re testing for AIDS Andy.

 

Andy: It’s gonna be fine…no sence getting all worked up over something you got no control over…

 

Connie: (Near tears) What if the test comes back positive?

 

Andy: (Sitting beside her, placing his arm around her) Then we’ll take it one step at a time. But for now…lets not put all our energy into negitive thought, alright?

 

Connie: (As Andy wipes a tear away) K…

 

Andy: (Holding her hand) You go to go?

 

Connie: I have to wait to see the doc. Guess he has some meds for me.

 

Andy: You hungry?

 

Connie: (Letting out a large sigh) Yeah…I could go for something.

 

Andy: Stop and get some take out?

 

Connie: Yeah…sounds good. (Looking over at Andy and smiling) Ah…I seem to remember someone promising me ice cream.

 

Andy: Yes I did…and you shall.(Leaning in to kiss her on the forehead)

 

Doc.: (From outside the curtain) Knock-knock.

 

Connie: Yes?

 

Doc.: How you feeling?

 

Connie: Good.

 

Doc.: Here’s a script for an antibiotic and one for pain…as needed on that one. Here’s your release form. Keep the arm immobile for the next 24 hours and if you want, stop in tomorrow and we’ll change the bandage for you…no extra cost.

 

Connie: (Smiling) Thanks. Umm…about the test…

 

Doc.: Standard procedure…we should know for sure in a day or so. I wouldn’t worry though.

 

Connie: Why’s that?

 

Doc.: We ran a test on Officer Polo…so far it’s negative…chances are your will be too. This is just to be safe though…

 

Connie: Ok then…(to Andy) ready?

 

Andy: Yeah…thanks doc…appreciate it.

 

Doc.: All in a days work. Take care.

 

 

            Andy and Connie make their way through the crowd, stopping to talk to T-Rod.

 

Connie: Thanks for coming down.

 

T-Rod: No problem. Any restrictions?

 

Connie: Just keep the arm immobile for a day…I’ll be in tomorrow.

 

T-Rod: It’s ok if you’re not…we can get some help from Anti-Crime.

 

Connie: No…I’ll be there. Thanks again.

 

            Just as Andy and Connie are about to walk out the doors of the hospital, shots go off. Instinctively, they reach for their guns and look for cover. More shots are heard down the hall. After the last shot, they make their way down the hall. Lying on the floor is Arlene Polo with six bullet holes in her. The emergency crew rushes to her side and begin to help her.

 

Andy: What the hell happened here?

 

Nurse: She said she needed to use the bathroom.

 

Greg: She was supose to be shackled to the bed.

 

Nurse: She said she was a cop and there was a mix up…

 

Greg: And you didn’t check with anyone?

 

Nurse: She showed me an ID card…

 

Martens: What the hell?

 

Connie: She didn’t have an ID card when I frisked her.

 

Andy: Where’d she get the card?

 

Nurse: She said it was in her shoe…I got it and looked at it…it looked real…

 

T-Rod: Where’d she get the gun?

 

Nurse: Anthony walked her to the bathroom.

 

Martens: Who’s Anthony?

 

Nurse: Security guard.

 

            Connie bolts into the bathroom and finds the security guard on the floor, bleeding from the chest.

 

Connie: We need some help in here.

 

T-Rod: Who fired their gun?

 

            Two security guards step forward.

 

T-Rod : (To Baldwin and Greg) Get them to a room and get their statements. All nonessential people move to the waiting area…lets give these people some room to work.

 

Andy: (To T-Rod) You need us here?

 

T-Rod: No…you two go…there’s plenty of help here…go.

 

Connie: You sure?

 

T-Rod: Yes…go.

 

 

9pm

Connie’s apartment

 

 

            After getting her scripts filled and picking up some dinner, Andy walks Connie up to her apartment.

 

Connie: Come in for a bit?

 

Andy: (Looking at his watch) Yeah…just for a bit.

 

Connie: (Trying to unlock the door) Ah…

 

Andy: Here let me do that.

 

Connie: Thanks…it’s a little messy. I wasn’t expecting company.

 

Andy: Don’t worry about it…I’m sure it’s fine.

 

            Andy helps her to the couch and gets her settled. He places the food and scripts on the table and puts the ice cream in the freezer.

 

Andy: Where’s the plates?

 

Connie: Ah…cabinet over the sink.

 

            Andy returns with plates, knives and forks.

 

Andy: Something to drink?

 

Connie: Yeah…ice tea, please? Second shelf of the fridge…thanks.

 

            Andy returns with the drinks and sits down next to Connie on the couch. They divvy up the food and eat. When they are done Andy cleans up and gives Connie some of her meds.

 

Andy: Feel better?

 

Connie: Yeah…thanks.

 

Andy: Ready for your ice cream?

 

Connie: Maybe later.

 

            Andy sits next to Connie and places his arm around her. Connie snuggles into his side, resting her wounded arm on her chest.

 

Andy: Comfortable?

 

Connie: Uh huh…

 

            Slowly and unconsciously, Andy lets his fingers drift through her hair. Connie lets her free hand rest on Andy’s lap, softly sliding it up and down his thigh. Andy starts to feel a little something starting to stir. He leans down and kisses the top of her head. She leans her head back to take a look at him. Her delicate, affectionate eyes undo him. Without thinking, he leans down to kiss her. She backs up.

 

Andy: (Frowning) Something wrong?

 

Connie: (Sitting up) No…I…ah…just think we should…ah…wait to hear for sure is all.

 

Andy: Wait for what?

 

Connie: The results.

 

Andy: Connie…

 

Connie: (Standing up) I just think it would be wise to wait. To make sure is all.

 

Andy: Don’t do this to yourself. The doctor didn’t think there was anything to worry about.

 

Connie: (Looking down at the floor, speaking in a whispered voice) I’m scared Andy. And when I’m scared…I can’t think straight…(looking up at him) can you understand that? (Looking back down to the floor)

 

Andy: (Placing his thumb under her chin and lifting her head up) Everything’s gonna be fine…on that… I give you my word.

 

            He cupped her cheek in his hand, took a swim in her eyes then leaned in to kiss her. As he did the phone rang. He stopped before he reached her lips. She stepped away from him to answer the phone.

 

Connie: Hello?…hey hi Rita. (Apologetically looking over to Andy) No I’m fine…really.

 

            Andy picks up his jacket and slings it over his shoulder.

 

Connie: Rita, could I call you back in like five minutes?…Ok …good. (Hanging up the phone and walking over to Andy) Sorry…

 

Andy: No problem. I should get home and relieve John. (Placing his hand on her hip and looking into her eyes) Call me later?

 

Connie: (Hugging him around the neck with one arm) Yes…I promise. Thank you.

 

Andy: For what?

 

Connie: For everything…for your patience…your understanding…(kissing him on the cheek) for the ice cream (whispering in his ear) and for you just being you (kissing his ear)

 

Andy: (Kissing her on the forehead) Call me.

 

 

Thursday

8am

Squad room

 

 

            Andy arrives to an empty squad room. He heads to the coffee room for his morning cup of coffee. As he sits down at his desk, the phone rings.

 

Andy: Sipowicz, 15th squad.

 

Connie: Hey.

 

Andy: Hey…you ok?

 

Connie: Yeah…I…ah…the pain meds really knocked me out. I’m gonna be a little late getting in. I just wanted to call.

 

Andy: (Relieved) K…you need me to come pick you up? I was thinkin’…last night after you called…how you were gonna drive with one arm? I was gonna call you back, but you sounded tired and I was up early this mornin’ getting Theo ready for his class trip…I didn’t want to disturb you…so I…ah …I’m ramblin’ here…

 

Connie: (Letting out a small snicker) Aahh…ok…I hadn’t even thought about driving, so maybe…yeah…I could use a ride.

 

Andy: Sure. Need anything?

 

Connie: No…I’m good.

 

Andy: See you then.

 

            Andy grabs a radio and makes his way out. On the way he runs into T-Rod.

 

T-Rod: What’s up?

 

Andy: Connie needs a ride in.

 

T-Rod: She gonna be able to work?

 

Andy: Yeah…I’ll take care of any heavy liftin’.

 

T-Rod: You sure?

 

Andy: I’ll keep an eye on her…I’m on the air if you need me.

 

T-Rod: Good.

 

            When Andy arrives at Connie’s apartment, she is waiting outside. He pulls over and gets out to open the door for her.

 

Andy: Hey…you sure you feel up to this? Boss said it’d be alright if you didn’t.

 

Connie: (Standing in front of him) No…really…I’m fine. I just need a coffee to shake the cobwebs loose is all.

 

Andy: K…we’ll stop and get some on the way.

 

Connie: (Getting in the car) Sounds good. A girl could get used to this.

 

Andy: What’s that?

 

Connie: Door to door service.

 

            He closes the door and smiles as he walks around to get back into the car. They stop at a bodega and get a couple of coffee’s and a muffin for Connie.

 

Andy: (Driving) Comfortable?

 

Connie: Yeah…oh…I forgot to ask you…did Peter’s father call you last night?

 

Andy: Yeah…all worked out. He’s gonna pick Theo up Friday night ‘bout seven.

 

Connie: I bet Theo’s all excited, huh?

 

Andy: (To himself:yeah…and his old man too) That’s putting it mildly. (stopping at a red light) Listen…ah…Peter’s dad asked if we’d (pointing back and forth between them) ah like to come to the cookout on Sunday.

 

Connie: (Sort of supprised) Really?

 

Andy: Yeah…apparently Theo has been…ah …talkin’ ‘bout you…ah…and me.

 

Connie: What do you think? I mean I’m always up for a cookout.

 

Andy: (Driving) Yeah…I think itah…be nice. It’s just his family and a few friends he said.

 

Connie: (Looking over at him) Great…sounds like a nice time.

 

Andy: Good then…

 

            A call comes over the radio.

 

T-Rod: 15th squad base to 15th squad.

 

Andy: 15th squad here.

 

T-Rod: Andy…undercover narcotics just informed me they picked up Karen Boxer in a sweep. They’re bringing her here.

 

Andy: Roger 15th squad…on our way.

 

Connie: Hit the ground running today.

 

Andy: Yep.

 

 

9am

Squad room

 

            Connie and Andy arrive at the squad. Karen Boxer has not arrived yet. Connie takes a seat at her desk and looks over her messages. Andy goes to see T-Rod.

 

Andy: What’s up

 

T-Rod: There was a sweep at a known drug house around 7am this morning. When they went to process the perps, undercover from last night was just getting in and recognized Boxer. They’re on their way here with her. (Throwing a nod at Connie) How is she?

 

Andy: She’ll be fine.

 

Connie: (Entering the T-Rod’s office) Morning boss…(to Andy) what’s up?

 

Andy: Just findin’ out what’s what.

 

Connie: (To T-Rod) What happened last night?

 

T-Rod: In a nutshell? Suicide by cop. Polo wasn’t gonna go to prison…she made that clear yesterday afternoon the way she acted when you guys grabbed her up. How’s the arm?

 

Connie: Fine. How’d the security guard make out?

 

T-Rod: Critical/stable condition last I heard.

 

Andy: You make out ok last night getting the other guards statements?

 

T-Rod: Yeah, fine. Greg and Baldwin got them. No problem there.

 

Connie: I still don’t know where that ID card came from.

 

T-Rod: She had it in her shoe…no way you were gonna find that. She knew what she was doin’…trust me.

 

Andy: How’d she get the one guards gun?

 

T-Rod: We’ll find out when he can tell us. From what it looks like…she hit him from behind with a trash can then grabbed his gun…shot him while he was down on the ground….then just started shootin’… knowin’ there was a tun of cops there…trust me…she knew what was gonna happen. This absolutely does not reflect on you Connie. You did your job…and she did her’s. You guys ready for Boxer?

 

Andy: Yeah…she high?

 

T-Rod: They didn’t say. (T-Rod’s phone rings) Excuse me.

 

            As Andy and Connie return to their desk, Greg and Baldwin enter the squad.

 

Andy: (To Greg) Big night last night, huh?

 

Greg: Yeah…what a mess. Boss fill you in?

 

Connie: Yeah.

 

Baldwin: (Walking up to Connie’s desk) Guess you won’t be pitchin’ tonight”

 

Connie: (Smiling) Nope…(lightly smacking him with her note pad) Wiseguy.

 

Baldwin: Seriously…hows the arm?

 

Connie: Good.

 

Greg: You guys need any help today…just holler…we’re just fillin’ out 5’s.

 

Andy: Yeah…thanks.

 

John: Morning detectives…sorry…the train was a mess this morning. (To Connie) How’s..

 

Connie: (Cutting him off mid-sentence) Fine…thanks.

 

            The phone rings.

 

John: 15th detective squad? Thank you. (to Andy and Connie) Undercover is bringing up Karen Boxer.

 

Andy: Thanks. (to Connie) Ready?

 

Connie: Yep…lets go.

 

            Undercover brings Karen Boxer up to the squad. They bring her to the pokey where Andy and Connie are waiting for her. Karen is a bit twitchy, in need of a fix. Connie realizes they only have a short time before they loose her to a full out jones.

 

Connie: Sit down Karen.

 

Karen: This all wrong…I was just walkin’ down…I was lookin’ for my dog and…

 

Andy: That’s a new one…lookin’ for a dog…never heard that one before.

 

Karen: For real…

 

Connie: (Getting right in her face) What’s for real Karen is that you’re goin’ to jail if you don’t come up with the right answers to our questions.

 

Karen: (Shaking) Fine…ask away…

 

Andy: (Taking a seat right next to Karen) Let’s start with how you know Claudia Richards.

 

Karen: (Looking puzzled) Who?

 

Connie: Not a good start Karen.

 

Karen: No really..who?

 

Connie: Claudia Richards.

 

Karen: (Trying to focus) Claudia…Claudia…I know a Claudia Andrews…but not Richards.

 

Connie: Where do you know her from?

 

Karen: She’s gotta brother I hang with sometimes.

 

Andy: What’s the brothers name?

 

Karen: Weber…I call him Kettle…(letting out a small laugh)…get it…Weber…Kettle?

 

Connie: Yeah…good one…where is Weber by the way?

 

Karen: I thought you were askin’ ‘bout Claudia?

 

Connie: Good Karen…you’re payin’ attention…

 

Karen: See…no problem…right?

 

Andy: Karen…where is Weber?

 

Karen: Let’s see…last time I saw him…was…

 

Connie: Don’t lie and piss me off Karen.

 

Karen: I’m not…last time I saw him was yesterday afternoon. He was waiting for a call from his sister. He needed a place to crash for a few days…some guys he stiffed in a deal came lookin’ for him…so I said yeah…since he had some dope…why not…right?

 

Andy: Good thinkin’ Karen.

 

Connie: When did Weber come to crash at your place?

 

Karen: (Tapping her head) Think…think Karen…ummm…late Monday night.

 

Connie: How late?

 

Karen: Umm…I’m thinkin’ ‘bout 9 or 10…in around there.

 

Connie: And did Claudia ever call Weber?

 

Karen: Yeah…a few times.

 

Connie: What’d they talk about?

 

Karen: (Starting to bang her fist on her leg) Most of it was that crazy Jamaican stuff…but…

 

Connie: What Karen? What?

 

Karen: I was in the kitchen   and I guess he thought I couldn’t hear…he said something about goin’ to the aunties place…no idea what that was about.

 

Andy: The aunt in the Bronx…stay here…let me call over there and see if they can find her.

 

Karen: (Banging a little harder on her lap) How we doin’ here?

 

Connie: Hang in there Karen…we’re almost done.

 

Karen: (Starting to rock back and forth) I sure hope so….

 

Connie: ((Holding Karen’s face in her hands) Just a little longer and you can go…ok?

 

Karen: (Nodding her head yes) Can you get me some coffee? That might help a bit.

 

Connie: Sure thing…as soon as the other detective comes back…

 

            Time was running out fast for Connie. She knew she had to get in a few more questions before Karen was gone for good.

 

Connie: Karen…how well do you know Claudia?

 

Karen: More to just say hi to…she change her name or somethin’?

 

Connie: She got married.

 

Karen: Oh…musta been an oversight…me not getting an invitation.

 

Andy: (To Connie) They’re sendin’ a car over to the aunt’s address. They’ll call us back if they find anything.

 

Karen: How long is that gonna take…I’m already late for an appointment.

 

Connie: Karen…is there anything else you can tell us about Claudia and Weber? Anything…

 

Karen: (Rocking back and forth) Like I said…I didn’t really know her…I knew her through Weber.

 

Connie: If I was to go out right now…where am I gonna find Weber?

 

Karen: (Holding her stomach) Umm…shit…there’s so many places…

 

Connie: Give me three…just three places to look.

 

Karen: (Closing her eyes, trying not to get sick) Umm…the club..

 

Connie: Over on 26th street?

 

Karen: Yeah…umm…my place…

 

Connie: C’mon Karen one more…one more…

 

Karen: AAHH…AAHH…Woody’s…

 

Andy: Woody's over on Fox Street?

 

Karen: Yeah…he goes there sometimes…GOD…CAN I GO NOW?

 

Andy: (Looking over to Connie) Let her go…somethins gonna pop…she’s not gonna be of any use to us now.

 

Connie: Go Karen…

 

Karen: (Darting out of the room) God bless you both…

 

Connie: Now what?

 

Andy: Let’s send Medavoy and Jones over to the club… grab Lisa and Hank form Anti-Crime, send them to the house and we’ll go to Woody’s.

 

Connie: (Rubbing her temples) Alright…lets run it by the boss.

 

Andy: (Taking a good look at her) You ok? You want to go home?

 

Connie: No…just waiting for the pain killer to get out of my system…trying not to get frustrated…its hot…my arm hurts… my stitches itch… am I bein’ a baby?

 

Andy: Nope…but you don’t have to be a hero either…I’ll take you home right now if you want.

 

            Connie gets up from her seat, stands right in front of Andy with a smirk on her face and pulls on his tie.

 

Connie: Oh yeah…and let you grab all the glory…(walking away from him)

 

Andy: (Walking out behind her) You got me…

 

Connie: (Stopping dead in her tracks and turning to look at him) I had you from the start… you just didn’t know it… I’ve just been waitin’ for you to figure it out.

 

Andy: (Looking deep into her eyes) Got that right.

 

            They stand toe to toe, both trying not to be the first one to crack a smile. She wanted to grab him and kiss him, but knowing that wasn’t going to happen, she turned and walked to T-Rod’s office. As soon as she turned her back, Andy smiled, broadly.

 

            T-Rod gives the ok for what they suggest.

 

11am

Woody’s Tavern

 

            Andy and Connie enter the bar and take a look around. There were only three people sitting around. They ask around about Weber. The bartender said he hadn’t seen in a few days. No one had anything to offer. As they get back into the car, T-Rod calls to tell them Lisa and Hank found Weber trying to break into the back of Karen’s house. They head back to the house.

 

Andy: (Taking a sideways look at Connie) You want to stop and get somethin’ to eat?

 

Connie: Nah…I’m good.

 

Andy: Head clearin’ up?

 

Connie: Slowly but surely…ah…where was Theo going today?

 

Andy: Art museum.

 

Connie: Nice.

 

Andy: Stop over and have dinner with us tonight? I’m sure I could us the help getting him settled down.

 

Connie: (Leaning her head on the window) Ok…pizza?

 

Andy: Yeah…its too hot to cook.

 

Connie: I’m just gonna close my eyes for a bit.

 

            Andy reaches over and adjusts the vents so the cool air from the air conditioner hits her just right. This doesn’t go unnoticed. Connie reaches over and holds his hand on the ride back.

 

11:45am

Pokey

 

 

            Hank is sitting in the pokey with Weber, who looks rather agitated.

 

Andy: (Taking the lead) Problem there Weber?

 

Weber: No problem mon.

 

Andy: You look a little outta sorts there.

 

Weber: (Slouching in his seat) No mon…no problems.

 

Andy: You got one real big problem there mon.

 

Weber: What’s that?

 

Andy: Where’s your sister Weber?

 

Weber: No idea mon.

 

Andy: Say mon again…and you’re gonna have some bigger problems…like eating through a straw for a month…got ME mon?

 

Weber: Yes…I gots you.

 

Connie: Where’s your sister Weber?

 

Weber: How should I know…she a big girl…

 

Andy: Enough of this bullshit…Weber…your gone to jail. Now, it can be for the drugs or for the expired visa or murder…your choice..

 

Weber: Murder? What is this murder you speak of?

 

Andy: The murder of your brother-in-law.

 

Weber: No no no mon (covering up) sorry…sorry…I was not involved in any murder.

 

Connie: (Lying through her teeth) Weber, you know what I like about apartment living? Hum? It’s the nosy neighbors. They make our job so easy sometimes.

 

Weber: What?

 

Connie: We got ourselves one nosy neighbor…seen you and Claudia leaving together the night of the murder…see what I mean?

 

Weber: (Looking back and forth between them) I was not there.

 

Andy: Ok…you stick with that…get up.

 

Weber: Why?

 

Andy: Cause you’re gonna be the star in a line up. We’re gonna have the noisy neighbor come in and have a look see at you…then your gone to jail for murder.

 

Weber: Now hold on…hold on…

 

Connie: Why?

 

Weber: Just let me think here…

 

Connie: So you can dick us around all day…no way…get up.

 

Weber: It wasn’t all my fault.

 

Connie: What’s that suppose to mean?

 

Weber: Claudia…she…she called me after the fact.

 

Connie: Oh… is that right?

 

Weber: Yes.

 

Connie: What happened?

 

Weber: The husband started talkin’ ‘bout a divorce…and she went off. Then she called me for help. He was beating her…

 

Andy: (Smacking him on the back of the head) No good Weber…try again.

 

Connie: Let’s just put him in jail…I’m done with this.

 

Weber: Now wait…

 

Connie: (Getting right in his face) I’M DONE WAITING WEBER…

 

Andy: (To Weber) Better start talkin’ there Weber…she’s not feelin’ too good today. I wouldn’t piss her off any more that that.

 

Weber: (Biting his bottom lip and thinking) See..

 

Connie: (In his face again) WEBER….THE NEXT THING OUTTA YOUR MOUTH BETTER BE THE TRUTH.

 

Weber: He was gonna divorce her…send her back to Jamaica.

 

Andy: Why?

 

Weber: He didn’t want to do it any more. I offered him money…and he told me get lost. She started hitting at him and then she ran to her room for her knife…I tried to stop her.

 

Connie: And?

 

Weber: She cut me…look (lifting his shirt to show his cut) Clifford tried to run away, but she stabbed him in the back…he fell and she started to choke him. He got free and…and she stabbed him again.

 

Andy: And you were where the whole time?

 

Weber: Trying no to bleed on the rug.

 

Andy: Not trying to stop her?

 

Weber: She’s crazy…I just waited for her to stop.

 

Andy: Not a good thing Weber.

 

Weber: I was to die too? I don’t think so.

 

Connie: Where is Claudia at?

 

Weber: I sent her to our aunties old place.

 

Andy: In the Bronx?

 

Weber: Yes. (Looking down at the floor)

 

Connie: What Weber?

 

Weber: She was to stay there till things quieted down.

 

Connie: Where Weber?

 

Weber: Back to Jamaica.

 

Connie: When?

 

Weber: Noon flight…she got a fake passport.

 

Connie: (Slamming her hand on the table) SHIT! Air Jamaica?

 

Weber: Yes.

 

Connie: What name is she using?

 

Weber: Lucy Brown.

 

Andy: Let me call the airport.

 

Connie: (Not believing him) Andy, wait…(to Weber) why would she go back if she knew people there were looking to kill her?

 

Weber: (Rolling his eyes) No one was looking to kill her…she made it up. She knew Clifford would feel sorry for her.

 

Connie: Why didn’t she just get a visa and then her card? It would have been a lot easier that way?

 

Weber: Because she a lazy cow…and a stupid one too. She just wanted to sit on her ass all day and be handed money to do with as she pleased…

 

Connie: Where’s the knife at?

 

Weber: I hid it at my place in Queens.

 

Connie: Where?

 

Weber: Under the mattrace….still wrapped in a towel.

 

Connie: (Tossing Weber a note pad and pen) Write it all down…just like you told us.

 

Weber: I’m going to prison?

 

Connie: Yes Weber…you’re going to prison.

 

Weber: SHIT! THAT BITCH!

 

Connie: (Not the least bit interested) Do me a favor…shut up and write.

 

            Andy and Connie step just out of earshot.

 

Andy: (Looking at his watch) It’s 12 o’clock now.

 

Connie: Now what?

 

Andy: Call Immigration and let them know…see if they can get in touch with the authorities there…get her when she walks off the plane.

 

Connie: I hate the fact she got away. Any idea of the extradition laws with Jamaica?

 

Andy: I’ll ask when I call Patterson.

 

            Connie rolls her head from side to side. Andy can hear her neck cracking.

 

Connie: I feel like I just went five rounds.

 

Andy: You sound it too. (To Hank) Sit with this guy while he writes his statement.

 

Hank: K.

 

Andy: (To Connie) C’mon…

 

Connie: What?

 

Andy: Just c’mon…

 

            He takes her to the locker room. He locks all the doors and has her sit on the bench by his locker. He rubs his hands together to get them warm, then begins to massage her neck and shoulders. Her back falls back onto his body as her head falls forward. He rubs deep and slow, rubbing and kneading with his hands on her shoulders and his thumbs on her neck. She slowly rolls her head and the cracking starts again. Andy looks down at her with a deep frown.

 

Andy: Stop that.

 

Connie: What?

 

Andy: Cracking your neck…it’s freakin’ me out.

 

Connie: But it feels good.

 

Andy: Still…its freakin’ me out…knock it off.

 

Connie: (Jokingly) Yes dear. Aaahhh…that feels so good.

 

            He massages her for a few more minutes, then resting her head on his stomach, he massages her temples.

 

Connie: Ooohhh yeah…I’ll give you half an hour to knock that off.

 

Andy: Feel good?

 

Connie: Yeah…there’ll be a little something extra in your paycheck this week.

 

Andy: Promises…promises.

 

Connie: (Pushing her head back to look up at him) I never promise what I can’t deliver.

 

Andy: (Kissing her on the forehead, then sitting beside her) Let me take you home.

 

Connie: (Cupping his cheek in her hand) I feel better. I want to wrap this up. After I’m done, I’ll take some lost time and swing by the hospital and have them change my bandage.

 

Andy: Promise?

 

Connie: (Kissing him softly on the lips) Yes…promise.

 

Andy: Can’t go back on that now…

 

Connie: Sealed with a kiss.

 

            They sat looking deeply into each other’s eyes, getting ready to kiss again when Jr. knocked at the door.

 

Jr.: Hey? Anybody home?

 

Andy: (Whispering) Kids…don’t ya just love them?

 

Connie: Let’s go before we get into some trouble.

 

            Connie unlocks the door and lets Jr. in. Before leaving, she throws a wink in Andy’s direction and heads out.

 

Jr.: (To Andy pointing to Connie) was it something I said?

 

Andy: (Smiling) She’s had a rough couplea days…welcome back.

 

Jr.: Good to be back. What happened to her arm?

 

            Jr. sits with Andy as he fills him in on what’s been going on.

 

Jr.: I go away for a few days and the place falls apart.

 

Andy: Yep…(slapping Jr. on the knee) you’re the glue that holds this place together.

 

            Laughing they exit the locker room.

 

Jr.: Can I be of any help?

 

Andy: (Nodding towards Connie) It’s her case…

 

Connie: Yeah…maybe in a bit. Thanks, I’ll let you know. Ah…welcome back.

 

Jr.: Thanks. Let me go see the boss.

 

Andy: (To Connie as Jr. heads into T-Rod’s office) Better?

 

Connie: Better…thanks.

 

            They set to the task of making phone calls and filling out the paper work. After a few minutes, Jr. stops at his desk.

 

Jr.: I’m headin’ out to get something to eat. Can I get you guys anything?

 

Connie: Just a soft pretzel and an ice tea for me.

 

Andy: Grab me a Coke on your way up…thanks.

 

Jr.: Will do.

 

            Andy and Connie set to work. A short time later, Jr. returns and begs for something to do.

 

Jr.: C’mon…I’ve been sittin’ on my butt for four days…give me something to do.

 

Andy: (To Connie) Better take advantage of this…

 

Connie: Ok…

 

            Andy and Connie fill him in .

 

Andy: (To Jr.) You be alright here while I take Connie to the hospital to get her bandage changed?

 

Jr.: Absolutely…get lost. (Cracking his knuckles)

 

Connie: (To Andy as they walk out) You didn’t say anything to him about cracking his knuckles.

 

Andy: That’s different…

 

Connie: (Stopping on the step and looking at him) You’re different.

 

Andy: (Walking past her) You have no idea.

 

            After a few hours, Andy and Connie return to the squad. Jr. fills them in.

 

Jr.: Ok…let’s see…Mark Patterson called back. There’s a slight chance of extradition from Jamaica…but don’t count on it. She’ll be locked up there for having phony documents and there’s an outstanding warrant for drug possession waiting for her.

 

Connie: Shit…

 

Andy: Prison is prison…either here or there…still all works out.

 

Connie: I guess. Anything else?

 

Jr.: Yeah… (To Connie) Patterson wants to know if you’re free for dinner tonight?

 

Connie: (Shooting a look at Andy) Really?

 

Jr.: (Looking back and forth between them) I miss something?

 

Andy: No…goofy friggin’ Irishman.

 

Jr.: Weber finished up his statement and Hank is taking him to central booking.

 

Connie: Cool for Hank.

 

Andy: Where’s Medavoy and Jones?

 

Jr.: They left with the boss. Heading down to IAB I think.

 

Connie: wonder what for?

 

Jr.: They didn’t say…Greg had a box with him.

 

Andy: Probably the last of the evidence on their case.

 

Connie: Well…let me get to the 5’s.

 

Jr.: Need help typing?

 

Connie: Aren’t you just the eager beaver today? You should go away more often. Here…have at it.

 

Andy: (To Connie) Go home…get some rest…we’ll finish up. You can sign the papers in the morning.

 

Connie: I’ll pick up Theo at school and get the pizza…see ya around 6:30 or so?

 

Andy: Sounds good.

 

Connie: (To Jr.) Thanks John.

 

Jr.: Glad to be of help.

 

Connie: (Winking at Andy) See ya…

 

Andy: Yeah…

 

Jr.: (Waiting until Connie is out of the squad) Things going good with you two?

 

Andy: Yeah…slow but good.

 

Jr.: You lookin’ to turn up the speed?

 

Andy: No…(thinking to himself) …maybe.

 

Jr.: Good for you. She’s a great woman…you two make a nice couple.

 

Andy: You think so?

 

Jr.: Yeah… I do. (Looking at Andy) You still hung up on the age thing?

 

Andy: Aahhdon’t know…sometimes I guess. I notice the looks we get when we’re out together…

 

Jr.: Screw them…you’re happy and she’s obviously happy…that’s all that matters.

 

Andy: Yeah…you’re right…thanks.

 

Jr.: That’s me…the couple counselor…

 

Andy: (Wadding up a piece of paper and tossing at Jr.) Don’t give up your day job.

 

 

6:15pm

Sipowicz apartment

 

 

            Andy arrives and finds Connie and Theo sitting on the front steps together.

 

Theo: Hi daddy…how was work today?

 

Andy: Good squirt. How was your trip?

 

Theo: Cool…we saw all kinds of neat stuff.

 

Andy: Tell us about it over dinner?

 

Theo: Sure.

 

Andy: (To Connie) Been waiting long?

 

Connie: No we just got here ourselves.

 

Andy: (Handing Theo a key) Check the mail real quick Squirt?

 

Theo: Sure thing dad.

 

Andy: (To Connie) He all revved up?

 

Connie: A bit…we may be in for a long night.

 

Andy: Thought as much.

 

Theo: Dad…look I got a card.

 

Andy: Yeah, huh? Who’s it from?

 

Theo: (Looking at his dad with a deep frown) How should I know…I didn’t open it yet.

 

            Connie turns away to hide her face and stifle a laugh.

 

Connie: (To herself) oh my goodness…he looks just like his father when he does that…too funny.

 

Andy: (Looking to Connie) Thought that was pretty funny huh?

 

Connie: Like looking and listening to a miniature you.

 

Andy: Ha, ha. (Opening the door to the apartment) Alright…let’s eat.

 

         They sit around the coffee table and have dinner. Theo and Connie sit Indian style on the floor while Andy sits on the couch. They listen to Theo tell all about his field trip. This last all through dinner, clean up and a game of Go Fish. While Theo and Connie played cards, Andy stretched out on the couch. He closed his eyes and just listened to them talk and giggle and laugh. Neither alcohol nor drug could be more soothing to his soul. Sometimes they would whisper and giggle when he would be half-asleep. On hearing them he would greatly exaggerate snoring or say something as if he were talking in his sleep. Whatever the case may be, he loved being with his son and his girl. Lately, he’s found himself wanting more of this.

 

Andy: (Looking at his watch) Ok, Theo…bath time.

 

Theo: (To Connie) Can you stay and read me a story?

 

Connie: Sure sweetie.

 

Theo: Be right back.

 

Andy: (To Connie as Theo runs down the hall) If you’re tired…you can go. I’ll explain to him.

 

Connie: Nah…I’ll lay down while you give him his bath. I like reading to him.

 

Andy: (Kissing her on the cheek) K.

 

          Connie stretches out on the couch while the Sip men get ready for bed. She really was tired, but spending time with both Theo and Andy was just the medicine she needed. About half an hour later, they return to the living room. Theo manages to wrangle a snack before story time. After they were done, Connie takes him to bed and reads to him. They spend more time talking about his upcoming sleepover at Peter’s. Finally, he settles himself and falls asleep. Connie returns to the living room where she finds Andy stretched out on the couch. She sits on the floor right by his head.

 

Andy: I can make some room up here for you if you want.

 

Connie: You gonna behave yourself?

 

Andy: No guarantee on that one.

 

Connie: Then I’ll just stay here, thank you.

 

          Andy rolls on to his side, reaches down and wraps his arm around her neck, letting his hand come to rest on her shoulder. He kisses the top of her head.

 

Andy: You sure you want to stay there?

 

Connie: (Kissing his arm) Yes I am sure.

 

Andy: You must really be tired then…

 

Connie: A bit. If you don’t mind, I think I’m gonna head out. I got some…umm…packing to do?

 

Andy: (Getting up off the couch) Really?

 

Connie: ( Standing in front of Andy) Yes…this very nice man asked if I wanted to spend the weekend with him…and I must go home and prepare myself.

 

Andy: (Cupping her face in his hands) This man must really like you to ask you to spend the weekend with him?

 

Connie: (Kissing his palm) I sure hope so.

 

Andy: I’m sure he does.

 

         Connie makes her way to the door.

 

Connie: Thanks for dinner. Give Theo a kiss for me and tell him good night.

 

Andy: Will do…ah…call me when you get in?

 

Connie: Andy…I’m fine…really.

 

Andy: I know…I just like ending my day hearing your voice.

 

Connie: (Smiling) Ok then…(kissing his cheek) will do. Night.

 

Andy: Be careful driving home.

 

Connie: (Looking over her shoulder as she walks down the hall) Always.

 

 

 

Friday

8:30am

Squad room

 

 

 

             The squad was hoping for a quiet day and that’s just what they got. Rita stopped in and filled them all in on her mothers’ condition. Jr. had a few tails about his week in Albany and the rest of the day was spent busy doing paper work. By 2pm, the squad was itching to get the weekend rolling. T-Rod suggested they put in for whatever lost time they had in order to get going. By 3pm, the squad was empty.

 

 

Friday night

Sipowicz apartment

7pm

 

 

           Friday. It was finally here and the Sip boys were very happy. Connie, Andy and Theo waited out front on the steps for Peter’s dad to come and get him. The apartment was a little warm, besides, Theo needed some room. When Peter’s father finally pulled around the corner. Theo took off. Andy calls him back.

 

Andy: Theo! Wait till he pulls up here.

 

Theo: Aww…

 

Andy: Settle down buddy.

 

         Peter’s father pulls over and parks the van.

 

Dad: Hi Theo…ready?

 

Theo: Sure am.

 

Peter: Hey, Theo…you remember to bring Rocket Power for Gameboy?

 

Theo: Yep…right here.

 

Peter: Cool…(to his dad) Can we wait in the van?

 

Dad: Sure.

 

Andy: (To Theo) Hey buddy…real quick…c’mer.

 

Theo: Yeah dad?

 

Andy: (Squatting down to be eye level) Remember your manners.

 

Theo: Yes dad

 

Andy;…and remember…no swimming unless Peter’s parents are with you.

 

Theo: Yes dad.

 

Andy:…remember… if you need us…just call and we’ll come get you.

 

Theo: Yes dad.

 

Andy: …and

 

         By now Theo was really itching to get going. He reaches over, placing his little hand on the side of Andy’s face.

 

Theo: (Kissing his dad on the forehead) I love you dad.

 

Andy: (A little choked up) Love you too son.

 

         Theo looks past his father, over to Connie and gives her his best wink. He looks back at his dad with a very congenial look on his mug. Andy throws a quick look over his shoulder to Connie, who looks away and continues her conversation with Peter’s dad. Andy rumples Theo’s hair, gives him a kiss on the top of his head and sends him on his way. Andy rejoins Connie and Peter’s dad.

 

Connie: Are you sure we can’t bring anything with us on Sunday?

 

Dad: No…we’ve got it all covered.

 

Connie: Well…if you remember something last minute…just call.

 

Dad: Will do. (Walking back to the van) Have a nice weekend.

 

Theo: (From the van) See ya guys.

 

Andy: Bye Theo…

 

Connie: Have a good time sweetie.

 

Andy: (Taking Connie by the hand) You two have that all worked out?

 

Connie: (Looking at him innocently) What?

 

Andy: (Smiling and knowing she’s lying) What, right?

 

Connie: (Quickly changing the subject) Want to take a walk?

 

Andy: Yeah…where to?

 

Connie: (Demurely) Maybe get some supplies for the weekend?

 

Andy: (With a hint of mischief in his eyes) You sure?

 

          Connie places her free hand on the side of Andy’s face. Very slowly, she moves in to kiss him. She keeps her eyes open and on him the whole time. Delicately, she places her lips on his, resting there for a few seconds, never taking her eyes off him.

 

Connie: (Backing up just an inch) That answer your question?

 

Andy: (Lightly licking his lips) Uh hu…

 

          They walk down the street hand in hand. Every few steps, Andy would look over at Connie. It was if he was checking to make sure she was really there, that this wasn’t a dream. She can feel him looking at her. It causes her to smile and it fills her heart. She wants to be closer to him. But how close can you get walking down the street? She let go of his hand and slips her arm around his waist. He places his arm around her shoulder and pulls her close to him. She gently lets her hand slip down, tenderly placing it in his back pocket, giving his cheek a soft squeeze. She rests her head on his shoulder. He kisses the top of her head and willingly lets her fragrance assault his faculties. She…safe and secure. He…amazed and enchanted.

 

         After getting some supplies, they head back. Connie stops at her car to get her bag. Once inside the apartment, they move about with the relative comfort and ease of an old married couple. Connie put the groceries away while Andy checked the mail and tidied up a bit. They settle on sandwiches for dinner. It was way too hot to cook. When they are done, Andy remains in the kitchen while Connie went to unpack. When she enters the bedroom, her eye is caught by a small box with a blue ribbon, resting on a pillow. Walking over, she can see a tag with her name on it. Unsure of what to do, she looks around for Andy. She cannot see him, but she can hear him in the kitchen. Sitting on the edge of the bed, she picks up the box and opens it. Inside there is a key. She doesn’t quite know what to make of it. She sits staring at her present, weighing its connotation. So deep in though she is, she did not hear Andy come into the room. He stood in the doorway of the bedroom; his eyes fixed on her, waiting for her reaction. Slowly, Connie looks up, seeing him standing there, staring at her.

 

Connie: You sure about this?

 

Andy: Absolutely.

 

Connie: It’s a big step.

 

Andy: (Walking to her) It’s the next step.

 

Connie: With an eye towards…

 

Andy: (Sitting next to her) Us. Having you in our lives…(taking her hand) but more importantly…having you in my life. I can’t care for you a little bit anymore. A little bit isn’t gonna work. It’s got to be all the way.

 

Connie: If it seemed like I was…pushing you…or rushing you…that wasn’t my intent.

 

Andy: (Turning to look at her) I know…you…takin’ you time with me…it’s helped me to realize…a lot of things. One of those things bein’…I want you in my life. And when I want something…and I know its right…I want it all the way. (Looking down at the box) If this scares you…if I’m movin’ too fast…if I’m assumin’ things I shouldn’t…

 

Connie: Andy…I’ve wanted this…what we have…for so very long.

 

Andy: I know…and I thank you for takin’ it slow and allowin’ me to adjust. (Looking down at the floor) Connie…sometimes…I thought it wasn’t real. Like I was gonna wake up and none of it would be true. Still…somedays…I have a hard time getting my head ‘round this. (Getting up and looking at her) God…you’re so beautiful…and…what you see in me…then there’s the age difference.(Walking to the window) Some nights I find myself askin’ am I wrong to be reachin’ out for something good…what right do I have to be askin’ so much?

 

         Connie places the box on the nightstand gets up and walks over to Andy, who is still looking out the window.

 

Connie: Andy? Look at me? (He turns half way and stops) Look at me…please?

 

        He turns to face her, looking into her eyes. If ever the expression, the eyes are the window to the soul was meant for someone, it was meant for Connie. He had just to look into her eyes to know exactly what she is feeling. Her eyes are his undoing. Whether closed or open, whether they were alone or with others, when he looks at her, he is made helpless. Looking at her now, he sees love, pure and simple. Love her he does. This is a new and different sort of love. One he should have come upon sooner. He did. It’s only that he didn’t know…until now. He sees a sensitive soul. Someone, who at this moment, who is just as vulnerable as he is.

 

Connie: When I see you…I see a good, decent man. A man who’s been hurt in the past…but is willing to move on. I see a top-notch detective who is an excellent teacher.(Reaching for his hand) I see a loving, giving and caring father. (Taking a step closer) I see everything I ever wanted…and a little bit more. And yes it scares me, but I’m willing to go forward…with you. And no…I don’t see age. I’m privileged. I don’t see you from the outside like the rest of the world…I see you from the inside and it’s beautiful. And no…its not wrong to reach out for something good, no matter how many times you get your hand smacked. And yes…you do have the right to ask for too much. (Wrapping her arms around his neck and whispering) Trust me…and I’ll do good things for you…for us.

 

            No man holds a woman the way he held onto her just now. What happens in this moment…or tonight…even if its nothing…it’s enough. They hold each other for the longest time, enjoying the comfort and warmth and just being close.

 

Andy: (Breaking the embrace and looking into her eyes) I know I don’t say it much…but I feel it…I love you.

 

Connie: Good. (Smiling) Cause I sure as hell love you.

 

            Connie walks over to the nightstand and picks up her gift. Looking at it, she smiles. Andy waits for her in the doorway of the bedroom. She walks with him, still smiling and takes his hand as they head for the sofa. She takes the key out of the box and notices the key ring for the first time. Its two small silver hearts entwined. On one heart he has engraved…To: Connie on the other is…Love Andy & Theo. It brings a tear to her eye.

 

Connie: Thank you Andy.

 

Andy: You’re welcome…any time.

 

Connie: (Turning to look at him) So…I guess this mean we’re goin’ steady?

 

Andy: How ‘bout…steadily goin’…forward.

 

Connie: Works for me.

 

            She gets up and puts the key ring with her other keys.

 

Connie: Shall we celebrate with some ice cream?

 

Andy: Yeah…

 

            He walks with her to the kitchen. They decide to go all out and make sundaes. They return to the couch, eating and making plans for tomorrow.

 

Connie: Is it gonna be this hot again tomorrow?

 

Andy: Yep…chance of thunder storms later in the day.

 

Connie: That should cool things off. So…go down by the water tomorrow?

 

Andy: Ok…

 

Connie: Unless you got something else in min?

 

Andy: The only thing I have in mind…is bein’ with you.

 

Connie: Oh…know what? Let’s put on cable channel 66…they should have a list of thing that are going on tomorrow.

 

            Andy flips on the TV. They sit, eat, talk and watch TV like they’ve been doing this for years. They sat and watched the news, falling asleep on the couch. It was 1am when Connie gently shook Andy and takes him to bed. They spend the rest of the night spooning. It is a beautiful night.

 

 

Saturday

 

 

            They wake to a cool morning breeze, still spooning.

 

Andy: Morning…’

 

Connie: Morning to you. (Turning to look at him) How’d you sleep?

 

Andy: Good.

Connie: Me too. (Propping herself up on her elbow) Ummm…air feels good. (Looking down at him) You feel good. (Kissing his forehead) Let me get my shower and I’ll make us breakfast while its still cool out.

 

            Connie begins to get out of bed when Andy pulls her back.

 

Andy: (Spooning her) Ten minutes…please?

 

Connie: Sure.

 

Eventually, they get out of bed and go about their morning routines. While Andy showers, Connie made breakfast. She is wearing a very short lightweight robe. Andy joins her in the kitchen.

 

Andy” Smells good.

 

Connie: (Kissing his ear) So do you.

 

Andy: Behave yourself…your cookin’

 

Connie: In more ways than one.

 

Andy: (Clearing his throat) Let me…ah…go get the paper.

 

Connie: Breakfast is almost ready.

 

Andy: Be right back.

 

            Andy soon returns. They sit at the table eating while they share the paper. They both clean up. Andy changes Connie’s bandage.

 

Andy: (While cleaning her wound) Howzit feel?

 

Connie: Better.

 

Andy: You takin’ your medication? You take it before you go to bed?

 

Connie: (Jokingly) Whaddaya, my mother?

 

Andy: (Looking over his glasses) Mother is only half a word.

 

Connie: Ha,ha ha…Yes I took it before bed…and I’ll take it when we’re done here.

 

Andy: You hear from the doc yet?

 

Connie: No…maybe today. I called yesterday…and left them your number…I hope you don’t mind?

 

Andy: (Wrapping her arm with some gauze) Not at all…

 

Connie: I told them to try my cell first.

 

Andy: (Placing some tape on the bandage) Whatever…there…(placing a kiss on the bandage)…all done.

 

Connie: (Smiling and blushing) Thank you kind sir.

 

Andy: (Handing her a glass of water) Now take your medicine,

 

Connie: (Hugging him) You’re all the medication I need.

 

Andy: That’s nice…thanks (kissing her cheek)

 

Connie: You like this,huh?

 

Andy: What?

 

Connie: Taking care of me.

 

Andy: (Kissing her forehead) Gotta take good care of my girl.

 

Connie: (Placing the glass in the sink) I’m sure you had other ideas about this weekend…I know I did.

 

Andy: Connie…you didn’t get hurt on purpose. I’m not gonna push for something that you’re not comfortable with…(placing his hands on her hips) Besides…you just bein’ here, it’s enough…it’s nice.

 

Connie: You’re being a real gentleman about this…

 

Andy: We’ll have our time…(kissing her on the forehead)

 

Connie: Umm…I love how I feel when you do that.

 

Andy: C’mon…get dressed

 

Connie: (Turning quickly to face him) Bet you didn’t think you’d be sayin’ that this weekend?

 

Andy: You tryin’ to cause somethin’ here?

 

Connie: Maybe…maybe not…

 

Andy: C’mon…

 

Connie: Where we going?

 

Andy: We’ll see…

 

Connie: (From the bedroom) Andy? Where we going?

 

Andy: (From the living room) Out.

 

Connie: C’mon Andy…I need to know so I know what to wear.

 

Andy: (Entering the bedroom) Connie…just get dressed. I don’t know where we’re goin’. I thought maybe a walk in the park…go down by the waterfront for a quick lunch and I don’t know after that.

 

Connie: So casual then?

 

Andy: What am I…Oleg Cassine? Yeah…I guess.

 

Connie: I just want to look nice.

 

Andy: (Walks over and places his hand on her hip) You could wear a trash bag and look nice... trust me. (Kissing her forehead, then walking out of the room)

 

            It takes everything he has to walk away. It takes even more for her to let him walk away. Connie stands and watches as he walks down the hall. He can feel her watching him. The heat in the apartment is not due to the weather.

 

Connie: (From the bedroom) I’m gonna jump in the shower real quick (To herself: a quick COLD shower that is)

 

Andy: (From the living room) K…(to himself: good, I’ll sit here with my woody and read the paper)…take your time.

 

            Within the hour they are on their way. A warm, almost tropical air has replaced the cool breeze of the morning. Still, they decide to walk to the park, holding hands along the way. The park did offer some relief from the heat. The high temperature of the city streets faded into a memory as they strolled along the serene tree lined path of the park. Andy purchased two snow cones. They find a quiet area and settle in for a bit. Andy puts his arm around Connie and she snuggles in tight. They do a little people watching while eating the snow cones. When they are done they head back to Andy’s to get the car. On the way back, Andy takes note of how quiet Connie has become. Before they get into the car, Andy stops and looks at Connie:

 

Andy: Hey…you feel alright?

 

Connie: Yeah…why?

 

Andy: You seem like something’s wrong…distracted or somethin’?

 

Connie: Nah…

 

Andy: (Looking at her again) What’s up?

 

Connie: Andy…I’m fine…

 

Andy: No…something’s up? You thinkin’ ‘bout that test again?

 

Connie: (Caught) It’s been two days…I shoulda heard something by now.

 

            She walks away and sits on the steps in the shade. He takes a seat beside her.

 

Andy: Let it out.

 

Connie: Andy…I got this…this…impatience… in me and no way to let it out.

 

Andy: Somethin’ I did?

 

            Connie looks over at him, placing her hand on the back of his head and letting it fall slowly down to his neck, where she lets it rest.

 

Connie: It’s everything you do…to me… for me.. you have a definite effect on me. It’s how you treat me…how you take of me…how you listen to me (looking down away from him, then back)…how you touch me. It’s how I feel when you hold me…when you kiss me…you got my libido on overdrive.

 

Andy: You flatter me.

 

Connie: I got a few other things I’d like to do to ya…’

 

Andy: Keep talkin’ like that and my reputation as a gentleman will go right down the tubes.

 

Connie: You feel it too?

 

Andy: Duh? Yeah…but until you feel comfortable about this test thing…I’m not gonna push you. I’m not gonna have you doin’ somethin’ you don’t feel good ‘bout just to satisfy myself. (Clearing his throat) Cold showers seem to work for me.

 

Connie: Tried that this morning…

 

Andy: (Taking her hand and looking into her eyes) Connie…if “nothing” happens this weekend…its enough you are here with me. I’m not goin’ away…your not gonna scare me off. I’m in too deep. I know everythin’ is gonna be ok…(pulling her to him so that their foreheads are touching)…trust me?

 

Connie: (Kissing his nose) Yeah…I do.

 

Andy: (Kissing her cheek) Good…lets go be by the water and get somethin’ to eat. (Standing up and offering her his hand) After that…maybe we’ll rent a movie (joking) and take turns takin’ cold showers.

 

Connie: (Walking to the car) Just so ya know…

 

Andy: (Turning to look at her as he opens the car door) Hum?

 

Connie: (With the car door between them) They’ll have to peel you off the ceiling when I’m done with you.(Getting in the car)

 

Andy: (As he closes the car door) There’s a thought, huh?

 

            A few blocks into the drive to the waterfront, Connie unbuckles her seatbelt and slides over to Andy. She rests her head on his shoulder. After a few minutes, he places his arm around her, allowing her to rest her head on his chest. She places one hand on his thigh and the other in his chest. At red lights, he would kiss the top of her head or the hand she was resting on his chest, innocently adding to the impatience that was increasing in size and strength. In both of them.

 

            They stroll along the waterfront taking pleasure in each other’s company. The climate down there was much cooler. They stop in a few of the little shops as they make their way to a quaint little eatery at the end of the dock. The ambiance was strictly nautical. It was a little cheesy, but it helps them to relax. The food and service are great. Connie decides to take dessert home with her. Before heading back home, they sit on a bench and watch the boats that are coming and going. After a shot time passes they head back to his place.

 

            On the drive home, with his girl napping on his chest, Andy notices that it is starting to cloud over and that the stars were being taken over by storm clouds. After a few more miles, he looks up again.

 

Andy: (To himself) one more star left…better make a wish.

 

            It is a hot and sticky night. The air is thick with moisture. As Andy parks the car, Connie wakes up from her nap. They decide to take a walk and rent a movie. The smell of rain is in the air and thunder slowly rumbled in the distance. Neither seemed to pay it any mind, both knowing storms like this never last for very long. At the video store, they settle on The Quiet Man. It was girlie enough for her and manly enough for him. Walking back to Andy’s apartment, Connie’s cell rings.

 

Connie: (Stopping to answer) Hello? (Pause) This is she.

 

            Andy watches the lightning show fast approaching. It was less than a mile away. The lightning seems to be doing more that preparing for a thunderstorm. He nervously shifts his body waiting for her reaction from the phone call. They are alone on the street, half way between home and the store as rain starts to fall. There is a drop in his stomach, the mixture of dread and love. He looks over at her. Her mouth is open just a bit. The coolness of the rain sends a shiver down his spine. He starts to shake and he doesn’t think he can stop it.

 

Connie: (Looking at Andy) Thanks for calling. (Closing the phone)

 

            He cannot read her face. This is the first time since they met that he couldn’t read or feel her. They are deep friends who crossed the line very successfully to become lovers. There’s too much running through him. Too much care. Too much fear. Too much love.

 

Andy: (Softly)Well?

 

            A heavy damp silence.

 

Connie: You were right…

 

Andy: (Softer still)And?

 

Connie: Nothing…I’m clean.

 

Andy: Good.

 

            A raindrop hits her bottom lip, flows down her chin, down her neck, and moves slowly to her chest until it meets the billows of her breast and ceases to be visible in the darkness of her cleavage. He swallows nervously. As if on cue, lightning flashes and rain begins to pour down on them. She looks up to the sky with open arms, clearly loving the feel of the rain on her skin. Andy sees her nipples harden and is suddenly aware of the hard, heavy weight between his legs. He stands looking at her, wanting to move but afraid he’ll get this moment all-wrong. Rain pouring down on them, he steps to her and kisses her fiercely. Their lips meet in a rush of passion as tongues dance together anxious and hungry for more.

 

            As plump raindrops hit the ground, she tilts her head back. He laps the rain from her neck, his mouth seeking her pleasure points, his hand running through her hair. Her hands are all over him. She grabs his ass and pulls him hard to her crotch. The sweet fragrance of her flesh rises and hangs in the air They are unaware of the world around them as current runs fast through their veins. Passion now rules as a forbidden thrill runs through his body. He wraps his lips around her nipple and sucks her right through her shirt. She runs her fingers through his hair, pulling him closer to her, not wanting him to stop.  Connie is in a haze. The only things she is aware of are his manhood pressing solidly against the front of his jeans, the smell of his musk and the rain on her skin. He moves in to give her another savory kiss when lightning flashes and she sees the raw hunger in his eyes. Desire is written all over her face. The rain falls harder and the temperature drops a quick ten degrees. But neither the rain nor the sudden chill will dampen their lust. His resolve is slipping fast…as is hers. Taking her by the hand, they hurry home.

 

            They walk home in silence, stopping every now and then to kiss frantically as the thunder rolls and the lightning crashes. They hold each other close in an attempt to stop the shivering that has taken over their bodies. Andy can hear Connie chattering her teeth. As they get closer to home, Andy is feeling curiously self-assured, but is still shaking terribly on the inside. Finally in the apartment, he takes her directly to the bathroom and turns on the shower.

 

Andy: (Brushing her back off her face) Get out of those wet clothes an get in the shower.

 

Connie: What about you?

 

Andy: I’ll be right back…go ‘head an get in…get warmed up.

 

            She thought about waiting for him to return before getting in the shower. But she was so chilled, almost to the bone. After she takes her clothes off, she places them in the sink. The water in the shower is just right. Just like him, just right for her. Standing in the shower with the water running over her skin, a feeling of instant warmth washes over her. It has very little to do with the shower water. It has everything to do with the way he makes her feel. It has to do with the anticipation of feeling him on her, feeling him in her. She becomes light headed and her stomach does a flip-flop. A little further south was that feeling of restlessness that makes you close your eyes and moan. It came over her without warning, that sudden ache. It had been there for some time. She would usually feel it when they were close.

 

Connie: (To herself) How long have I felt this way? How many months? Was it when I first met him? Can’t remember. But for weeks now…every time I see him, I get that rush…my stomach does that little dance…and that…that…stirring…if he wasn’t such a gentleman, we’d still be on the street. I’ll never think of rain again without thinking of him and what he does to me.

 

            Suddenly conscious, she finds she is semi-masturbating while thinking of him. One hand on her breast, pinching her nipple. The other, on her mound, slipping her finger through her tight curly hair. She leans back on the shower wall, takes a deep breath, closes her eyes and waits for him.

 

            He leaves the bathroom in search for some extra towels. He finds them in the bedroom closet. The sound of the rain hitting the windows has a calming effect on him. As he looks out to the street below, he smiles remembering what happened out there in the rain not ten minutes ago. It was a combination of relief that she would be fine and desire for her. He never would have done such a thing with anyone else. She did that to him. She made it ok. She made him feel safe. She makes him feel. He would still get that nervous knot in his stomach when he looks at her. It is that little twinge of fear and excitement. He had hoped that feeling would never go away.

 

Andy: (To himself) Well, Sipowicz…there’s a beautiful woman in your shower…whaddaya’ doin’ standin’ here? That knot’s back…a little panic mixed with bliss. Still a little frightenin’, huh, boy? I want so not to screw this up. She’s the real deal. There is nothin’ fake about her…her words, her feelins’…her actions…everything. (Breathing in deeply and letting it out slowly) Move…don’t make her wait…don’t lose her.

 

            The sound of the rain beating down on the windows releases him from his thoughts. The room is warm. But still his body shakes, not as sever. It’s more of a purring through his veins. He slowly makes his way back to the bathroom. He can see her form through the shower curtain. Andy swallows hard, though his mouth is bone dry. He stares at the curtain as he takes off his clothes. He sees her stretch and reach for the ceiling. A moan escapes his mouth. He is losing himself in desire; feeling out of control and his senses are aflame. His heart quickens as he approaches the shower. As he pulls back the curtain and steps into the shower, she turns to look at him. He juts his jaw, moving it from side to side in an attempt not to smile. He lets his tongue slip slowly out of his mouth to moisten his lips, then bites his bottom lip. An unconscious gesture on his part, a gesture that sends a thrill through her body. He tires not to show he is very much enjoying the view, but she can see it in his eyes. The pupils widen, as they become dark with lust. His eyebrows are raised ever so slightly as he tilts his head to one side. Connie stands before him, her hand brushing back her hair as she leans forward to kiss him. Breaking the kiss and her gaze on him, she lowers her eyes for a second, then looks at him again.

 

            He is suddenly aware of everything acute, as it turns to passion in his mind. The way his stomach jumps, the heat between them and her scent. There is a pressure building in him. Her breasts are just out of his reach. Her brown nipples, which jut out from the areola, look at him. Her breasts are not the hard marble types. He can see that and wants to feel the softness in his hands and his mouth. He does the only thing he can think of, he follows his need. Turning off the shower, he reaches out for her, offering her his hand and leads her out of the shower, giving her a quick dry and leads her to the bedroom.

 

            In the bedroom, he kisses her softly. His mind goes blank and her head begins to swim. For a very long time the only contact to this world is the feeling of their lips touching. She would have him in her right now. Instead, she moves her mouth and he can feel the wet inside of her upper lip slide in. Super slow motion, the energy of her tongue entering his mouth, touching his tongue causing him to sway. His tongue goes forward, sliding around hers. So soft, softer than he ever imagined. He could cry. He snaps out of that thought and now the kiss has becomes willful. This is no mistake. This is what they both want and they are making it happen. His fright still lingers in the back of his mind as he deepens the kiss. His fright over the age difference, fright that this isn’t real, that somehow he has fooled himself or made a fool of himself, cause how could someone so beautiful and smart want to be with him.

 

            But his body does not hesitate. The kiss continues. Exploring her mouth, the boundary of her teeth, the water under her tongue. He is almost afraid to stop kissing her. That would mean he would have to look at her, to acknowledge the need in him. As she moves away, he keeps his eyes closed. He can feel her touch his face with her fingers. She places a finger on his lip. He opens his eyes. The rain beats the windows with repeated heavy blows, coming faster and faster. He pulls her back and feels the heat coming from her body as he presses his face into her neck, holding her like a drowning man clutches a life raft. He kisses her and tastes her sweetness. He runs his hand slowly down her back, feeling the curves of her backbone. He runs his tongue along the tendon of her neck, a thick straight line. She lightly bites at the marble-statue contour of his shoulder.

 

            No words…unwilling to break this moment. He kisses the base of her throat and feels her shiver and hears her moan. She wants him and that alone pushes any fears he has away. This is supposed to be. Something as pure as this…there was no denying it. He leads her to the bed, laying her down and breathing in her musky smell. He feels drunk. Lying beside her, he touches her breast, sliding his thumb over her nipple, which stand to attention. With his tongue, he flicks at it then sucks on it, hearing her take in a deep, deep breath. His hand caresses the other breast, lost in the softness of her. He turns his attention to that breast and hears an uncontrolled moan escape her lips. His hand slides slowly down her ribcage, onto her belly. A deeper moan comes forward. Slowly…slowly his hand moves forward until he feels the base of her hairline. His penis is throbbing against her thigh. Each move he makes causes a new sound from her.

 

            He rests a finger on her slit. His finger enters her slit and yet another new sound comes deep from her throat. He moves in and never, never has he felt something as soft and yielding. In her…out of her…in her out of her. The pain between his legs grows stronger. He looks at her, but she is unfocused, unseeing. Slowly he removes his fingers from her and sets to having his thumb toy with her clit. She shakes uncontrollably on the bed. She reaches for the back of his head, pushing him to her sex. He willingly complies. Playing at her clit, sucking on her swollen lips, stopping to lap at her slit and finally plunging his tongue all the way into her. She pulls him closer still as she wraps her legs around his head, riding his face, until she explodes in his mouth. He drinks her in.

 

            He moves up her body, leaving a trail of wet kisses as the storm outside rages on. Kneeling before her, he lets his penis find her opening on its own. It bumps on her clit. It slides to the side, finally letting the tip rest at the entrance of her opening. There is nothing in his mind except for being in her. All the way in…deep inside…feeling her muscles contract and milking him. What he has put in her no longer belongs to him and what she has opened no longer belongs to her. Amazed at how it felt to be inside her. This is the connection they have been looking for their whole lives. Lightning crashes and illuminates the entire room. Seeing each other for the first time. Seeing deeper and feeling deeper than ever before. The storm rages outside, just as it had been inside both of them all of last night and today.

 

            He holds still inside her for just one moment. Her hands come up and around his back, pressing him to her. He slides out just a touch, then back. Out of her then back. They hold each other close. Out. In. Stop. Again and again and again. Their minds cease to function as bodies move unbidden. Her fingernails dig deep into the skin on his back..  She is getting tighter and tighter around him. Their breathing is getting ragged. Another crash of lighting followed by an earth-shattering explosion of thunder. Rocking faster and faster as the rain pounds on the windows. The speed and friction are intense. She arches her back taking him with her, closing in on the crest. One more push forward and they explode together. The flood begins…the flood of pleasure. The flood of purity. The flood of emotions.

 

            He rests his spent and tired body next to her and hears a sound come from her. Leaning up on his elbow, he looks over sand sees her crying. He kisses away her tears. He knows why she is crying. It’s not because this was wrong. There has never been anything so right. It is the uncontrolled unfolding of private selves. It is trust. It is relief. It is happiness in taking that chance that has led them to this. They hold each other for a very long time. Just as suddenly as the storm started, it stops. It is a soft and thoughtful rain that falls now. Lying in the darkness, holding each other, safe in the comfort of their love.

 

            Connie wakes to the smell of coffee brewing. Looking around, she sees that it’s still dark outside. It is still raining. She hears Andy moving around in the kitchen. She grabs on of Andy’s old T-shirt and slips it on. Just as she was about to get up, Andy arrives with a tray of food.

 

Andy: (Throwing a nod and smiling) Hey.

 

Connie: (Returning a smile) Hey yourself…what ya been up to?

 

Andy: I know you have to take your meds…so I thought I’d make ya a little somethin’ to eat first.

 

Connie: (Sitting back on the bed) You’re too kind.

 

Andy: Yep…that’s me .

 

Connie: What do we have here?

 

Andy: (Placing the tray between them) Some scrambled eggs, toast, coffee and a bowl of Cheerios for me.

 

Connie: Wow…

 

Connie makes a scrambled egg sandwich as Andy sits and eats his Cheerio. They eat in very comfortable silence, sharing smiles and touches. After they are done eating, they head to the kitchen where Andy cleans her wound and changes her bandage.

 

Connie: This coulda waited till mornin’ ya know?

 

Andy: Nope…last thing you want is to get this infected.

 

Connie: Yes doctor.

 

            Andy looks up at her over his glasses and smiles. When he is done he gives her a glass of water for her pill. With that done, they set to cleaning up after their midnight snack.

 

Connie: (Looking out the kitchen window) Think we’ll get rained out tomorrow?

 

Andy: Don’t think so…let’s see.

 

            Andy flips on the radio, searching for the news channel. He is having a little trouble.

 

Connie: Let me try.

 

Andy: Fine.

 

            She begins to move the dial and comes upon a song she hasn’t heard in years.

 

Connie: Oh…I love this song…wanna dance?

 

Andy: (Putting the dishes away) What?

 

Connie: (Sneaking up behind him) Wanna dance?

 

            She slowly begins to grind into him from behind as her hands slip under his shirt and rub his chest.

 

Andy: Well…when you ask like that…

 

            He swings his arms around her and holds her close as they dance.

 

Slow dancin’

Swayin’ to the music

Just me an my girl

Slow dancin’

No one else is the whole wide world…

 

 

            As they dance Andy rubs her back as she runs her finger through his hair. He nuzzles his face into her neck, tickling her with his mustache. She traces his ear with her finger. Placing his hand on the small of her back, he pulls her closer to him. She can feel him getting aroused and plays along. She lets her hand slide down his back. She slips it into the back of his boxers and rests her hand on his cheek, giving it a soft squeeze. He does her one better by placing both his hands on her ass and squeezing. A very deep, soft moan escapes her. He brings his hands to her hips again pulling her closer. She wraps her arms around his neck and arches her back, grinding slowly into his groin.

 

Andy: (Into her neck) Oh my…

 

Connie: Ummhumm….

 

            In one quick motion, he scoops her into his arms and carries her back to bed. She buries her face in his neck and starts to nibble at him. Gently placing her on the bed, he sits beside her. Cupping her cheek in his hand he leans in to kiss her softly. His hand slides up her shirt, along her ribs stopping at her breast. With just the tips of his fingers, he rubs very gently at her nipple until it pops up. He rubs it between his thumb and finger causing her to squirm a bit. Cupping her breast, he breaks the kiss and begins to suck at her nipple through her shirt. With one hand, she rubs his back and with the other she pulls his shirt off of him. He helps her take off her shirt. Still in his boxers, he slides in bed beside her. Now both lying on their sides, looking into each other’s eyes, they kiss.

 

            She slides her hand into the rim of his boxers and helps him to slip out of them. While doing so, she pushes him onto his back. Quickly, she places herself between his legs. Kneeling there, she takes his penis between her palms and begins a slow rub. When he is semi-hard, she kisses the tip of his head softly. Placing just the tip of his head between her lips she sucks softly. Very slowly she introduces his penis into her mouth. He squirms, restraining moans of pleasure as he feels himself disappearing into her mouth. It turns him inside out. Andy reaches down to move her hair off her face to get a better look at her. At this point, Connie deep throats his hardness. He flings his head back, closing his eyes and swallows hard. He bites down hard on his bottom lip as she rakes her teeth softly up and down his hardness.

 

            Taking one last dive on him, she releases her hold on him. Swiftly, she straddles him, not giving him a chance to refuse. Gradually, she grants him access into her. She grins down at him like a Cheshire cat. He reaches up and begins to knead at her breast, sometimes pulling softly at her nipples. Pushing her breast out at him, she arches her back and flings her head form side to side. Her long blond hair captures what little light that is coming in from the street light and holds it. He releases her breast and places his hands on her hips encouraging her back and forth motion. She grinds hard into him as her juices flow over him. Not able to wait any longer, he spills into her. With fingers interlocked, he helps to hold her up as the last wave of her orgasm flows through her. Having very little strength left, slowly he brings her to his chest. She rests there for a few minutes before sliding in beside him.

 

            They wake early the next morning in each other’s arms. In time, they get up and start their day. Andy calls to see check in on Theo. Peter’s dad asks him to pick up some ice. Around two, Andy and Connie arrive at the cook out. It is a day full of eating, playing horseshoes and swimming. It was just before dark that they say their good byes. Theo falls asleep as soon as Andy starts the drive home.

 

Connie: I never saw a kid who liked swimming as much as Theo.

 

Andy: Yeah…you didn’t do so bad yourself.

 

Connie: It was fun. Did you have a good time?

 

Andy: (Reaching over to hold her hand) Any time spent with you is a good time.

 

 

            Andy arrives at Connie’s apartment. He helps her get her bags out of the trunk.

 

Connie: (Not wanting to say good bye) Well..

 

Andy: (Cupping her cheek) Call me in a bit?

 

Connie: Yeah…I will

 

            He gives her a soft kiss on the lips.

 

Connie: I had…ah…great time this weekend. Thanks.

 

Andy: The pleasure was all mine.

 

Connie: I don’t know ‘bout that…

 

            He kisses her before she can say another thing.

 

Andy: Call me?

 

Connie: Yeah…

 

            He waits to see that she gets into the apartment building safely. Back in the car, he begins his ride home. Eventually, he gets Theo settled in bed. Andy sits on the couch waiting for Connie to call. He didn’t have to wait long.

 

Andy: Hello?

 

Connie: Hey.

 

Andy: Hey. How ya doin’?

 

Connie: Lonely. And you?

 

Andy: Yep.

 

Connie: You have any trouble getting Theo to bed?

 

Andy: Nah…I wish every night were this easy. Did you take your meds yet?

 

Connie: In a bit. I promise.

 

Andy: K…

 

Connie: Andy…thanks again for a great weekend…for takin’ such good care of me and for…for…everything. I love you.

 

Andy: I love you too. Get some rest and I’ll call you in the mornin’. Maybe see ‘bout takin’ Theo to the carnival over on Glendon.

 

Connie: K…night Andy.

 

Andy: Night…Connie?

 

Connie: Yeah?

 

Andy: That was funny…and true.

 

Connie: (A bit confused) What Andy?

 

Andy: Jamaican me crazy…

 

Connie: (Smiling broadly) Funny and true?

 

Andy: Ya’mon.

 

Connie: (Snickering) You are crazy.

 

Andy: Just for you. Night.

 

Connie: Night.