The Negotiator

by Dee Henderson

  “How about Justin’s?” The locally owned ice cream shop was a regular at the Taste of Chicago, and it was near Kate’s home.

  “Now you’re talking.”

  He looked at his beeper, confirmed again there had been no page. How hard was it to locate one man? Where was Bobby Tersh?

  Six

  You’ve been distracted all afternoon. Is everything okay?”

  Lisa’s question made Kate glance up and realize her sister was holding out a glass of lemonade. “Sorry.” She reached to accept it. “Everything’s fine.” Except for the fact Bobby Tersh was still out there somewhere, now in Indianapolis according to the latest sighting; Dave had her flustered with his habit of showing up in her life; and Jennifer had called this gathering without indicating why. Kate shook her head and sipped at the cold drink. Dinner preparations were finished. Jennifer, Marcus, and the rest of the O’Malleys would be here within the hour.

  “I tried to call you yesterday, but you weren’t answering at home.”

  “You should have paged me.”

  “I knew I would see you today.”

  Kate settled deeper into the cushions of the sofa, resting the cold drink against her jeans. She had spent well into the evening hours yesterday beginning the review of the negotiation tapes from the bank. The tactical outcome had been necessary, but it still felt like a defeat.

  “Kate.” Lisa waved her hand. “See? Distracted.”

  Kate groaned. The last thing she wanted was for Lisa to know work was getting to her. The family already worried about her enough. Stephen had been sworn to silence about the black rose. “Sorry.” Searching for a distraction, she offered one she knew would get Lisa’s interest. “Dave Richman came over for pizza the other night. He seems to be there every time I turn around lately.”

  Lisa set down the glass she had just picked up. “Really?”

  Kate looked over at her sister and half smiled. “Don’t sound so surprised.”

  “You haven’t exactly been dating much in the last year.”

  Lisa was being generous. She didn’t think she had been out at all in the last year. “Don’t get your hopes up. His interest is work related.” She had noticed his frequent glances at his pager yesterday, waiting for the news that Bobby Tersh had been picked up. She had let it go because it was kind of nice to have him care enough to waste a Saturday covering her back. She would be inviting more attention than she wanted if she mentioned that to Lisa. “I think he’ll make a good friend.”

  The doorbell rang and Lisa rose to answer it. “Don’t let him slip out of your life, Kate. You need someone who can make you smile like that.”

  The O’Malleys spilled in through the door, laughing.

  Setting her glass on the end table, Kate got to her feet. The energy that came into the room with their arrival was refreshing.

  “Kate!”

  She laughed as she was lifted off her feet in a hug. “Hi, Jack.”

  “It’s good to see you’re still in one piece.”

  “Rumors of my death were greatly exaggerated.”

  “Stephen ordered me not to come serenade you to sleep at the hospital.”

  “The way you sing, I’m grateful. Thanks for the e-mail gift. Manning is jealous. Where did you find the explosive screen saver?” She had laughed when she installed it. If she grabbed the mouse and cut the wires in time, the bomb would not go off.

  “I was going to send you one of those electronic greeting cards, but when I saw the screen saver I knew you would appreciate it more.”

  “Absolutely.”

  Over Jack’s shoulder, Kate saw Jennifer get swallowed up in a hug from Lisa. Jennifer was petite to begin with and appeared to have lost even more weight, but her smile was radiant, her color good. Kate lowered her voice. “Any idea what her news is?”

  Jack lowered his head toward hers; the laughter in his voice disappeared as the serious side he so rarely showed came to the forefront. “We couldn’t drag a thing out of her. It must be something pretty big.”

  Kate suppressed the desire to flinch. It was bad news; she just knew it. “Thanks for the warning.” She took a deep breath. Whatever was coming couldn’t be avoided. But it would help to stay busy. “Would you mind starting the grill? Marinated steaks are in the refrigerator.”

  “Consider it done. I’m starved.”

  “Of course you are. You’re always hungry. I want mine pink, not dry.”

  “I notice, despite all the aspersions to my cooking, that you are still asking me to man the grill.”

  “Jack, you know Stephen will be out there to give you advice as soon as he sees the match in your hand.”

  “Just because we don’t let you play around with the fire—”

  She swatted his arm. “Go on.” Jack laughed and moved toward the patio. “Stephen, Jack is going for the matches.”

  Stephen strode across the room, angling after Jack. “I’m on him. There is no way I am letting him burn my steak.”

  Grinning at the fact the two of them were so predictable, Kate turned to look for Rachel.

  Her sister was hanging back half a step, observing it all with a smile. Kate headed toward her because her hugs were always the best. “Rachel. How was Florida?” The tan was there, but subtle.

  “I went swimming with a porpoise.” The quiet pleasure in her voice reflected the memory. She always had the positive to tell, even in a tragedy. She hadn’t been in Florida for a vacation.

  “Who’d you take?”

  “Diane Faber, age ten. She was a much better swimmer.”

  “Did she lose one or both parents?” The tornado through Florida’s Dade County three weeks ago had taken fourteen lives. As a trauma psychologist, Rachel got called in for the tough cases.

  “Her father. He had promised her the trip for her birthday.”

  Rebuilding positive memories, helping the child know life went on. It was Rachel’s special gift to children. “Rough.”

  “Yes. But she’ll make it. How are you doing after Tuesday’s excitement?”

  “A few bad dreams.”

  “You got off relatively light then.”

  “I did.”

  “Hey, Rachel, you’ve got to come see my new pet,” Lisa called. “I got him this last week.”

  “Does it slither?” Rachel whispered.

  Kate grinned, having had the exact same concern when Lisa mentioned the pet to her. With Lisa it was best not to make assumptions. “A sable ferret. He’s adorable.”

  “The fact it has fur is itself a relief. I want to hear about this bank thing later, in all its detail.”

  “You will.” Kate promised, accepting the fact she would have to tell the story at least once tonight. Rachel nodded and crossed to join Lisa.

  “The cuts look like they are healing well.”

  Kate turned to see Jennifer at her side and had to smile at the opening observation. The doctor would always be there in the forefront. “I wish you had been here. I had Stephen doing the needle bit and offering a lollipop.”

  “I heard. We were chatting on the phone while you were still in the ER. You’ll be happy to know I brought him another case of lollipops since he was running short of cherry.”

  “I’m never going to live this one down, am I?”

  Something flickered in Jennifer’s eyes. “Not until someone else in the family creates better news to talk about.”

  Kate searched Jennifer’s expression. That flicker, had it been for good news or bad? “Would that by any chance be you?”

  Jennifer flashed a knowing smile. “You’ll find out after dinner.”

  “Leaving me the hot seat for a while?”

  “You’re good cover. I think I’ll hide behind you for another hour.”

  Kate hugged her. “In that case, I think I should hurry along dinner.”

  Marcus was leaning against the archway to the kitchen. Kate smiled at his quiet scrutiny. His arm came out to encompass her. “I’m glad you’re okay.”

&
nbsp; She drew in a deep breath and let it out with a sigh, safe in the shelter of his arms. She would have to reassure them all, and it felt nice. “I honestly didn’t get hurt that badly.”

  “I talked to your doctors. You weren’t a pretty sight.”

  “It’s relative. I nearly had a busted nose, but Dave got in the way of that blow.”

  “Richman?”

  She nodded. “I’d say the fight was interesting for about forty seconds.”

  “I talked to him on the phone briefly at the hospital. He didn’t mention it.”

  “As it split his lip, probably not.” She leaned back and grinned. “Thanks for the roses.”

  “My pleasure.”

  “They were extravagant.”

  “Someone has to spoil you.”

  “I’ve really missed you.”

  “It’s mutual.” He rubbed her arms. “What else has been happening in your life? Been hiding any good secrets?” She was hiding so many at the moment it made her face tinge pink. One eyebrow raised. “I think you should explain that blush.”

  “Maybe later. We’ve got steaks for the grill, as well as Polish and brats. Would you take them out to Stephen and Jack?”

  “The longer you duck the question, the more interested I’m going to be in the answer.”

  “Curiosity is good for you.”

  He nodded toward the kitchen. “Get the food.”

  Laughter erupted from the back patio where Lisa and Jennifer had joined Stephen and Jack. Kate grinned, loving the sound. “Try to corral the kids while you are out there.”

  “This is your jurisdiction, not mine.”

  “You’re the adult here. I’m going to join the fun.”

  “Thanks a lot.”

  Kate slipped her arm around his waist and grinned. “Admit it; you like being the one in charge.”

  “In this family, that means I get all the grief.”

  “Exactly.” It wasn’t just the fact that they were the two oldest; it was the past. She and Marcus had been at the group home over two years before the others had begun to arrive. Their history together went deeper, and unlike the others, they had never had a chance to be kids. “I’m going to hate this answer, but when is your flight back?”

  “First thing tomorrow morning.”

  “I was afraid of that.”

  “Have something in mind?”

  “I was looking forward to a basketball game.”

  He smiled. “You could use a couple more days to recover.”

  “I’m a little stiff, but I’m ready to play. I figured you could use the handicap.”

  “Been beating Stephen recently?”

  “Frequently. My fadeaway jumper is red hot.”

  “Let me see what Jack and Stephen are doing. Maybe we can fit in an early morning game.”

  “Hey, Kate! We’re ready for food out here.”

  Kate gave Marcus an amused look. “Coming, Jack.”

  Dinner was a riot. Kate ended up seated between Marcus and Lisa. It had been six weeks since the last full gathering. The stories were numerous and hilarious. Kate sat back and enjoyed the shared laughter. There was something about having the whole family together that made everything more meaningful.

  As plates were collected so dessert could be brought to the table, Lisa leaned over to whisper, “Are you going to mention seeing Dave?”

  Kate hesitated, glancing around at the group. “Do you think I should?”

  “What do you think?”

  Why not? It was a night for surprises. Kate picked up her fork and tapped on her water glass. “May I have your attention please?”

  The family quieted down. “Knowing the grapevine that cements this family together,” she smiled at the main culprit sitting beside her as laughter echoed around the room, “allow me to dispel a rumor that I’m sure will soon be making the rounds. Yes, I have seen Dave Richman since Tuesday; it was not a date. I have not changed my policy on dating cops. Now who wants chocolate or raspberry ice cream for dessert?” She got to her feet to bring out dessert. She loved the looks of surprise around the table.

  “Kate is seeing someone.” Jennifer was delighted. “This is wonderful.”

  “Absolutely,” Rachel joined in. “Come on, Kate. Details!”

  “I’ve only known him a couple days. I think he’ll make a good friend.”

  “We can tell. Nice blush, Kate.” Marcus commented. “When do we get to meet him?”

  “Check him out you mean?”

  “Of course. Invite him to the basketball game tomorrow morning.”

  “You guys would have him for breakfast.”

  “Only if we didn’t like him,” Jack chimed in from the other end of the table.

  Kate grinned, knowing it was true. She might as well find out if Dave was going to survive the scrutiny. No one could read a guy better than her brothers.

  “I would want an honest opinion,” she said softly to Marcus.

  “That serious?”

  No. And yet…“Maybe someday.”

  His hand grasped hers. “Bring him around.”

  Kate helped Lisa bring out dessert.

  “Since Kate has broken the ice, I guess it’s time for my announcement, too.” Jennifer looked…nervous…Kate decided as she resumed her seat. She glanced around the table and saw the same anxiety just under the surface with everyone at the table. To a person, they were braced for bad news.

  “I appreciate you all changing your plans and flying here on such short notice. I didn’t want to do this over the phone.”

  Rachel reached over and grasped Jennifer’s hand.

  “I met someone a few months ago. Tom Peterson is a doctor in my medical office building. I haven’t mentioned him because, well, a lot of reasons, but mainly because it was just a really good friendship. It’s gotten serious in the last few weeks.” She took a deep breath, her smile tremendous. “I’m engaged.”

  Engaged? And she had never mentioned him? Kate tried to absorb the news, to understand. This was quick, and Jennifer was not impulsive in her actions.

  The first engagement in the family. There was a quietness around the room.

  “Congratulations, Jen.” The first words came from Marcus. Kate glanced over and saw not only a smile, but…relief? Yes. His worry for Jennifer would have been intense. He was the guardian of the family.

  “I didn’t mean to worry everybody. The engagement just sort of happened.”

  Kate grinned. Even Jennifer was having a hard time explaining the situation. It had to be love.

  “Where’s the ring?”

  “When’s the wedding?”

  “Did you at least bring a picture?”

  The questions came in a flurry as they crowded around Jennifer to celebrate, to share the joy.

  Jennifer took the engagement ring off her necklace and slipped it on her finger. “I want to bring him to the Fourth of July gathering so you can all meet him. Just showing up with Tom didn’t sound like a good idea.”

  “Now, Jen, you know if you said to like him, we automatically would,” Jack protested.

  “You had better!”

  Kate gave Jennifer a hug. “You love him.” She needed to hear that reassurance, for this was her baby sister.

  “More than I can put into words.”

  Kate could see the joy. She could also see something she didn’t understand. Jennifer glanced at the others and squeezed her hand. “You’ll like him, Kate.” Whatever else she wanted to say, it was something she wanted to say privately. Kate returned the pressure. Later.

  Stepping back and watching Jennifer, Kate felt uneasy beneath her smile—not for Jennifer, but for the rest of them. Within a few months, the family would expand, become different. She tried to imagine it and could not. It had been just the seven of them for over two decades. She felt the unexpected sensation of threatening tears and blinked rapidly not to let them form.

  A hand slipped around her waist and she turned. Marcus. “This day was destined to come. It
will be different, Kate, but better.”

  “Reading my mind again?”

  “Feeling the same thing.”

  She leaned her head on his shoulder. “An O’Malley wedding.” She chuckled, finding laughter better than tears. “Can you imagine the surprises that will be dreamed up for the big day?”

  “Life is not going to be boring.” Marcus reassuringly rubbed her back. “Just think, we’ll finally be able to play four on four, girls versus guys, with an expanded family.”

  She elbowed him. “You guys won’t have any more excuses when you lose.”

  He grinned. “There is that.”

  The party began to break up shortly after 9 P.M. Rachel and Jennifer were staying with Lisa. Kate didn’t doubt that they would be up most of the night talking. Marcus was heading out with Jack.

  “Six A.M. game time?” Marcus confirmed, giving her a hug good-bye.

  “Yes. With Dave if he’s interested.” How she was going to word that invitation, she had no idea.

  “Good.”

  Jennifer had stepped into the kitchen. It was the first time Kate had been able to catch her alone. “Jen, congratulations again on your good news.”

  “Thanks.” The smile was real, but so were the subtle signs of strain.

  There was more news; Kate was sure of it now. She rested her arm around Jennifer’s shoulders. “This is not the only reason you came.”

  “No. Can we meet tomorrow after you get off work?”

  “I can get away for lunch.”

  Jennifer hesitated. “Evening would be better.”

  “Okay.” The swirling reality of bad news was still in the air. “I’ll call when I get off, come by and pick you up?”

  Jennifer’s hug was tight. “Thanks.”

  “Anytime. You’ll call before then if you need me?”

  Jennifer nodded.

  “Don’t let Lisa and Rachel keep you up half the night. They’ll have you in Tahiti for your honeymoon if you’re not careful.”

  Jennifer smiled. “They are debating Paris or Rome at the moment.”

  “The travel hounds have been let loose.”

  “I forgot how much fun it was to watch them together.”

  “It is that. Enjoy tonight. And call Tom.”

  “It’s late.”

  “Trust me; he’ll be waiting by the phone, afraid the family talked you into changing your mind.”