The President’s Son

 by: Miguel Sanchez

© 2009-2014 by the author

The author retains all rights. No reproductions are allowed without the author's consent. Comments are appreciated at...

Chapter 72 

“Did you come up with a way to protect him?” Bennie mumbled.

I kissed his cheek. “Yes I did love.”

“How are you going to do it?”

“I’m going to get a button cam to put on Timmy’s shirt.”

“Tomorrow?” Bennie asked.

“Yeah.” I answered.

“Uh, don’t forget, you have to play GI Joe tomorrow.”

Shit, he was right. “Thanks baby, I got so wrapped up with Timmy, I clean forgot about it.”

I went back over to my room and sent Dylan an email telling him to pick up the cam and get it over to the Matthew’s house.

I set a BDU uniform out and my boots so I could quickly get dressed. I was about to go back to Bennie’s room when he came in. “What time do you have to get up?”

“I have to be at the base by 5am so I’ll have to be up around 4.”

Bennie rolled his eyes. “Tell me you can do this without having to wake me.”

I went over and kissed my lover. “Yeah I can.”

“OK now let’s get some sleep.”

I didn’t need another invitation so I joined him in bed. Bennie turned off the light then we drifted off to sleep. At 4. My alarm on my cell went off waking me up. I eased out and went across the hall to my room and used the bathroom. I grabbed a shave then put my BDU’s on then went out and found some coffee. I got a cup in me then found my travel mug and fixed one to go. At 4:20 I was out the door and on my way to Andrews AFB. It didn’t take me that long to make the drive as the roads were still pretty much empty. When I pulled up to the main gate, I cut my lights off and waited to be waved through. The airman at the gate held his hand out. I lowered my window and returned his salute. “Good morning Sir, my I see your ID card please?”

I had it in with my credentials so I opened the case and the man looked at the ID card and then saluted again then waved me in.

I made my way over to post headquarters then parked my car. I found the duty office then went in to start my day.

“ATTENTION!” An airman yelled as everyone got to their feet.

“Good morning men, as you were.” I replied then went into my office.

I went over to my desk and saw a stack of files with a note on them. “Colonel Mason, please go over these reports and sign off on them.”

The base commander set these on my desk. I also noticed a weapon on my desk. There wasn’t a note on it so I wondered what it was doing in here. I stuck my head out of my door and hollered, “First Sergeant.”

A moment later there was a knock on my door. “Enter.”

“First Sergeant Reynolds reporting as ordered Sir.”

I returned his salute. “Top, why is there a weapon on my desk?”

“Sir that is your duty weapon. All officers wear them when they are on duty.”

“Where does it belong?” I asked.

“In the weapons locker Sir.” He answered.

I went over to my desk and removed the pistol from the holster then cleared it. “Put this where it belongs.”

He took the weapon and saluted. “Yes Sir.”

At 0500 everyone fell out for morning formation. Since I was the duty officer, I was in command. I gave the men time to fall in on the street then I went outside.

“Squadron, ATTEN-HUT!”

The First Sergeant yelled. “Sir, the squadron is formed, Sir!”

I returned the salute. The First Sergeant took his place then I hollered, “REPORT!”

I heard, “All present or accounted for Sir!”

After the colors were raised, I dismissed the men then I went over to the mess hall for breakfast. I went to take my place in line when the First Sergeant said, “Sir, you’re the commander so you can go to the head of the line.”

I got a tray and went through the line. “How would you like your eggs cooked Sir?” I heard.

“Two over medium please.”

“I’ll bring them over to you,” the cook said, so I got a cup of coffee then found a seat.

I saw a table marked Command Staff Only so I took a seat. After telling the men to carry on, I sat down and had my coffee.

The line cook brought my tray over to me and I had my eggs, sausage and toast. It wasn’t as good as Gloria’s but it was edible.

When I was finished, I got a cup of coffee to go. I returned to my office and went about my duties. By 9:30 I’d gone through the reports and was about to find

out what else I had to do when there was a knock on my door. “Enter!” I shouted.

General Mitchum came in. I snapped to attention. “Sir, to what do I owe this honor?”

“At ease Colonel Mason. I just stopped in to see how you were settling in.”

“Well, I’m adjusting well Sir. I’ve finished the reports and signed off on them. What else is there for me to do?”

“When all of your paperwork is finished, you may hit the street and patrol the area.”

“What do I do?” I asked.

“Well, it’s basic security.”

“So it’s like a uniformed cop? Writing traffic tickets and answering radio calls?”

“More or less.”

“What about the hangar area?” I asked.

“Yes, that is your area too.”

I talked with the General for a few more minutes then went to find my cruiser. “Don’t forget your sidearm.”

I went over to the weapons locker and signed out my weapon and put it on. My first stop was to the hangar area. I parked the car and made my way to the gate I would enter. I took out my Secret Service ID and swiped the lock and after the light turned green, I entered. The one thing I didn’t see were the guards making their rounds. I entered the hangar through a back door and everything seemed quiet. I decided to check Air Force One. I quietly went up the stairs and was shocked at what I saw. “JUST WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON IN HERE?”

Everyone was definitely shocked to see me standing there. “Sir, you don’t have clearance to be on here.”

Now this guy didn’t know me but I wasn’t about to cut him some slack. “Get up here.”

The man walked up. “And just how do you know I don’t have clearance to be on here?”

“Sir, I have a list of everyone allowed on here.”

“Oh really?” I asked as I reached for my credentials.

I thought he was going to pass out. “Ah, ah, you’re with the Secret Service?”

“It’s nice to know you can read. Now what the hell are all of you doing on this plane?”

“We’re doing our security checks Sir.”

I didn’t like being lied to so when he handed me this line of bullshit I lost it.

“Listen Sergeant, I used to command this detail so I know how things are. I want this plane cleaned from top to bottom in fifteen minutes and every one of you to report to my office.”

“Ye…Yes Sir,” he stuttered.

I went back down the steps and saw General Mitchum standing there. “What was all that about?”

“It seems the men decided to take a break on board.”

“Oh they did, did they?” he said and I knew he wasn’t happy.

I found a chair and waited for everyone to come off. Thirteen minutes later, it was a mass exodus.

General Mitchum began chewing ass as I just sat there and watched. “Colonel Mason, I will have a new team assigned to you as soon as possible.”

“Thank you Sir.”

I knew what the rest of my day would entail. I got my cruiser, parked it by the hangar door and sat there listening to the radio. After lunch, a Tech Sergeant came over and handed me a set of orders. He’d been assigned to the team so I could get away from the hangar.

I was about to start the car when my cell rang. “Mason.”

“Ace, how goes military life?”

“It’s a job,” I answered. It was Dylan.

“I brought the cam over to the Matthew’s house like you asked. Judy thanked me and I filled her in on what we’d be doing to protect Timmy.”

“Good deal man, thanks,” I said then ended the call.

The rest of the day went by without fanfare. At 5PM, I signed out for the day and headed back to the residence. I pulled up to the back gate then entered the grounds and made my way over to the residence. After I parked my car, I headed inside. When I stepped off the elevator I heard a voice call my name. I stopped and there was Ed. “Welcome home Colonel.”

“Thanks, I can think of better things to do on a weekend. What’s up?”

“You’re using a lot of resources for one case.”

“Tell me, do we have a dollar amount we can spend on investigating cases now?” I snapped back.

Ed was taken aback with my retort. “I think using a button cam for a child might be a mistake. If that gets damaged” He started then I interrupted him.

“Ed, don’t forget those boys are still under our protection and if someone is trying to abuse them, we have a responsibility to investigate it.”

“I don’t disagree but that tool is very expensive and I don’t want to see it damaged.”

I was shaking my head trying not to totally lose it. “Listen to you. You’re like a politician, where everything is based on dollars and cents.”

Ed was about to say something when Ben came in from the living room. “What’s going on in here?”

I filled Ben in on Dylan and my plan to try and see Timmy’s teacher with his hand in the cookie jar. “Ed, what is the problem?”

“Mr. President, we have to be cautious with our expensive equipment.”

“Oh so protecting a child doesn’t warrant our tools?”

Ed had to take a step backwards when Ben fired his question. “No sir, but it could easily get broken.”

“Ed, it could get broken when used on an adult too. It’s a chance we’re going to have to take.”

“What other resources are you going to need for this investigation?”

I could see Ben doing a slow boil. “Director Miller, that’s enough. Why are you giving Agent Mason the third degree on this case?”

“As I said before, I think we’re using a lot of resources.”

Ben raised his hand. “That’s enough. I’m authorizing the use of whatever Ace needs for this case.”

“Yes Mr. President.”

“If you will excuse me, I’d like to get out of this soldier suit and into something more comfortable.”

Ben waved his hand as he went back into the living room. I went into my room and quickly took my boots off. Oh man did it feel good to get them off my feet. I forgot how heavy they were. I stripped and put on some clean undies and a tee shirt then put a suit on. I went over to Bennie’s room and it was empty. I started trying to find him and my first stop was the living room. I found him curled up with Ben on the sofa. He looked up and saw me standing there then he got up and wrapped himself around me. “How was your day love?”

I sat down and filled Ben in on the fiasco aboard Air Force One. It’s a good thing I was sitting down because Ben was not happy the airmen were having a get together on his plane. I informed him the base commander handled the situation and Ben relaxed.

I was about to sit down in the living room when we heard the elevator doors open. I stepped out and saw a uniformed officer. “What is it?”

“Ace, there is an Air Force General demanding to see you.”

Ben heard this. “At this hour officer? What does he want?”

“I don’t know Mr. President, he wouldn’t say.”

I followed the officer and there stood General Carlisle.

“What do you want at this hour?” I asked.

“Is that how you speak to a General officer?” He barked.

“When you come into my house unannounced and not tell the officers why you’re here, I just might.”

“You over stepped your bounds today.” He snapped.

“Oh really?” I barked. “The hangar bay is part of my territory.”

“Not unless I say it is.”

“I think you should discuss that with the base commander and the owner of the plane.”

“I don’t need to do that.” The general snapped.

“Oh, and why not?” Ben added.

“Because I say who guards the hangar and those planes.”

Ben showed himself. “Is that so? In my office NOW!”

Ben turned around and walked into his office and I stood holding the door waiting for the General. He was frozen in his place so I went back out. “The President is waiting.”

Finally the General began to head to the office. When he stepped in, I closed the door. The General saw me standing there and said. “You’re excused Mason.”

Ben stood up and I knew that was the wrong thing to say. “Excuse me, this is MY office and I say who is excused.”

Ben was boiling. “As you wish Mr. President,” the general said softly.

“Now what is the meaning of this interruption?” Ben asked.

General Carlisle remained quiet so he looked over to me. “Agent Mason, do you know what this is about?”

I started to speak. “Yes sir. It seems a number of personnel were on board Air Force One having a little get together and I caught them. All the men were reassigned.”

“Good, did you file charges against them?”

“No sir, I left that up to General Mitchum.”

“Those men were returned to duty,” Carlisle interrupted.

“On whose authority?” Ben asked.

“Mine,” Carlisle barked.

“Really, then I want every person who was on board that plane charged with dereliction of duty and unauthorized use of an aircraft.”

“And why should I do this?”

Ben walked from around his desk and went nose to nose with the General. “Because I said to.”

“I’m afraid I can’t do that.”

“YOU CAN’T OR YOU WON’T? Ben yelled.

“I won’t Sir.”

I just watched a man’s career go down the toilet. “I’ll expect your resignation before you leave tonight,” Ben said.

Carlisle just stood there. “DO YOU HAVE A HEARING PROBLEM?”

“No sir,” Carlisle replied softly.

Ben went back over to his desk and pulled out a piece of paper and handed it to the general. “SIGN IT.”

I have never seen Ben this mad since Pete stuck his foot in it. The General quickly signed the paper and handed it back. “Agent Mason, please escort this individual off the property.”

“Yes Mr. President.” I said then took the General by the elbow and led him to the elevator.

“You just ruined your career Mason.”

“Are you threatening me?” I asked.

“No, it’s a promise.”

“As of this minute, you can’t do anything. You’re a civilian.”

“We’ll see about it!” Carlisle snapped.

“Officer Martin, see to it this man leaves the grounds and he is not to be allowed on again.”

“Yes Agent Mason.”

Carlisle was fuming but he was on my turf so I held all the cards. I watched as he was led off the grounds then returned to Ben’s office. “Did you see the gall he had?”

“I did Sir and I didn’t think he’d over step his bounds like he did.”

“While you were out I put a call into the Air Force Chief Of Staff. I told him I needed you here on the weekends and having you on military duty put me a man down.”

“You’re going to get me out of this detail?”

“It’s already been done. He said he’d handle the necessary paperwork. You’re a civilian again.”

“I know one person who will be happy at that.”

“What about tomorrow Sir?” I asked.

“He’ll fax me the papers as soon as they’re done.”

“Alright Sir.”

“Don’t worry Ace, I’ll put a copy of the papers on your door.”

“Thank you Sir.”

I was in a dilemma now. I was expected at the base in the morning but Ben was getting those orders rescinded. I didn’t know what to do. Do I go in then come back or sleep in and hope Andrews got the orders.

I decided I’d sleep on it so I decided to join my lover in bed. I was about to go in when my cell rang. “Mason.”

“Colonel Mason, this is Captain Williams, I’m the duty officer.”

“Yes Captain, what can I do for you?”

“Sir, we just received some orders on you.”

“Oh, what do they say?” I asked.

“They say that you are now officially retired.”

“Will there be someone to cover for me?”

“Yes Sir, the staff duty officer is taking care of that now.”

“Thank you for the call, Captain. I really appreciate it. Good night.” I said then ended the call.

I was officially a civilian again so I cuddled close with Bennie and drifted off to sleep. The next morning, Bennie had to wake me up in time for breakfast. I got dressed then made my way to the dining room. “Nice of you to join us.” Ben said smiling.

“Sorry Sir, I was really tired. Thank you for taking care of that issue.”

“What do you have planned for today love?” Bennie asked.

“I want to meet with Dylan about how we’re going to watch over Timmy tomorrow.”

“Can I come tomorrow?”

I was about to speak when Ben answered. “No son.”

Bennie nodded his head and didn’t argue. After breakfast I met up with Dylan and went over the plan on how we were going to get this guy. “Can we be outside his classroom?” Dylan asked.

“I don’t think that’s an option because the kids would want to know who we were and being dressed in black, we’d stick out. I have an idea. I’ll be at the school in the Hummer. You can use a marked uniformed cruiser. No one will question you sitting on the street.”

“What about you in the Hummer?”

“I’ll have my credentials handy so Metro won’t be able to bug us. I’ll also let them know we’re conducting an investigation and we’re not to be bothered.”

“That’s right, you have a friend there.”

“Yes, I can give Bob Brinkman the heads up.”

Dylan and I were about to break up when there was a knock on my door. “Come in,” I said.

JR came in. “I have these for you.” JR handed each of us a small tablet. “You’ll be able to see Timmy on these.”

I liked this idea because I wouldn’t have to lug my lap top around. JR activated the cam and the feed came up on the tablets.

“Good work JR.” I said. “We’ll take care of these. Can I control the camera from this?”

“Yes you can.” JR answered then showed me how.

“No one will be able to tap in on the feed, will they?” Dylan asked.

JR was shaking his head. “Nope, this is going through our private server.”

“Thanks man,” I said patting him on the back.

Before we left, I called Judy and found out what time school started. School started at 8:30 and let out at 2:30. Judy said she takes the boys to and from school so they wouldn’t have to spend an eternity on the bus. I filled her in on the plan and said Timmy might be late coming out to her but we’ll be there in case anything happened.

Once that was done, I could relax with Bennie. He had one more week on break then it was back to class for him.

We spent a quiet Sunday in the residence which for me was a switch. Normally I’m handling one thing or another.

Monday saw me up at my usual time while sleeping beauty continued to hibernate. At 7:15 I had to wake him so I yanked the covers down as he reached his hand out trying to find them. “Rise and shine, Rice Krispy time.”

“Oh Ace, come on.” Bennie moaned.

“Alright love, you win. I’ll tell Gloria you’re not joining us for breakfast.”

He sat up. “Huh? Wait, I didn’t say that.”

“Then shake a leg and get dressed. You know I have to be at Timmy’s school today and I can’t be late.”

“Hey can I come too?” Bennie asked.

“Sorry man no can do.” I can’t have a gaggle of agents in the Hummer. This is an undercover operation.”

“So how are you going to be undercover?”

I smiled at him. “That’s easy love. We’ll be on the street by the school watching the feed from the camera we planted on him.”

I met up with Dylan then we headed over to the school. I found a place to park and Dylan pulled in behind me. I didn’t think anyone would bother us since Dylan was using a marked Secret Service cruiser.

Dylan and I had communications set up so I just slid over to the passenger’s seat and watched the feed from Timmy’s camera. What was nice about it was not only did we have a video feed but we also had audio too.

The day went pretty smoothly until it was time for lunch. “Timmy can you come up here?”

Timmy walked up to the teacher. “Yes Sir?”

“I want to see you after class today.”

I was watching this and I didn’t like the look he had on his face. “Look alive Dylan,” I said into my Bluetooth.

“I see it. Man this guy gives me the creeps,” Dylan replied.

“Yeah, so how do we want to do this?” I asked.

“Just before school lets out we’ll make our way to the back so we can enter through the rear door.”

“What about your tablet?” I asked

“Not to worry, I can get the feed through my smart phone.”

My eyes glanced up and I saw a cop pull in behind Dylan. “Metro PD at your 3 o’ clock.”

He walked past Dylan’s car and came up to the Hummer. I cracked the window a little. I had my credentials hanging around my neck so he would be able to see them. He tapped on the window. “Can you step out here please?”

I lowered the window a little further and showed him my badge. “What’s the problem?”

“We got a report of some suspicious vehicles.”

“We’re here on official business.”

“How about you tell me what this business is?”

“Are you with the Secret service now?” I asked.

“No Agent, I’m not.”

“Then you don’t need to know.”

He didn’t like my answer but there wasn’t much he could do considering there were a number of agents out here. He just turned in a huff and went back to his car and left the scene.

“Ace, you missed it,” Dylan said.

“Damn, what happened?” I asked.

“He pulled Timmy onto his lap and Timmy managed to get out of there.”

I was steamed. “We’ll get this guy after school is out.”

After lunch, the teacher tried to get Timmy back in the classroom but Timmy refused to budge. The rest of the day, the teacher was giving Timmy the eye but I don’t think he saw it.

When the bell rang, the school yard was a mass of children. Timmy tried to get out of the class but the teacher managed to delay him. “Come over here Timmy.”

Slowly, Timmy shuffled up to the teacher. “What is it?”

He reached out but Timmy took a step backwards to he couldn’t reach him. “Must I remind you of what I told you before the holidays?”

I could tell, Timmy was getting scared. “I … I remember.”

“Good boy, now you didn’t tell anyone did you?”

“No!” Timmy almost screamed.

Dylan and I were making our way to the back of the school. We passed a door so I stopped and looked inside. The hall was empty so I entered the building and made my way to Timmy’s classroom. “I’m in position.”

I took my phone out and watched the goings on between the teacher and Timmy.

The teacher managed to get Timmy onto his lap but didn’t try anything. I was wondering if he would tip his hand so all I could do was wait.

The camera began to shake and I was seeing his fingers as he began to unbutton Timmy’s shirt. Timmy was able to move the teacher’s hands and jump down and run out of the class. “Dylan let’s move.”

Dylan and I were off like a shot. I wondered how I was going to get in without others seeing me but decided the hell with it and go in the front door.

I opened the door and ran in. Remembering Timmy’s drawing, I headed for the hall where his classroom was. As soon as I started down the hall, I saw Timmy running as fast as his feet would allow.

I dropped to one knee and held my arms out. “Come here buddy.”

At first he moved away until he recognized my voice. “Uncle Ace, he’s after me.”

“I know son, that’s why I’m in here.”

I looked up and saw the teacher heading towards us. I put Timmy behind me and got ready to confront the teacher. “I’ll take him, Sir.” The teacher said.

He slowed down and started walking towards me. When he got close I reached out and put him against the wall. “You’re under arrest.”

“For what?” He shouted as he started squirming.

I pushed his head against the wall. “Stand still and put your hands behind your back.”

He stopped fighting and complied with my order. I quickly got him cuffed and spun him around. “What did I do?”

“Let’s see,” I started. “We’ll start with attempted child molestation.”

“WHAT?” He screamed. “I never touched him.”

Timmy stepped up and got into the conversation. “OH yeah?” He yelled. “You pulled me onto your lap and tried to feel my dink.”

“Prove it.” The teacher said with a smirk on his face.”

I got into the teacher’s face. “It’s all on video so proving it will be easy.”

“You think that’ll be admitted into court. I’ll have it tossed. The kid has been after me for months.”

“Sure he has.” I fired back. “I heard the threats you made to him about being with his daddy.”

“What of it?” He countered.

“His father is dead so your threat is another charge.”

He slumped down and got quiet. Dylan came up to us. “I’ll take him Ace.”

Dylan led the teacher out as I took Timmy and brought him to the Hummer. As soon as we were inside, I looked at the button cam and it was untouched. Our next stop was to Cal and Judy’s house. When I arrived, Judy was waiting for us. I told her everything is fine and the teacher was arrested. Timmy was back to his usual self again. While I was talking to Judy, my cell rang. I looked at it and Ed was calling me.

“Mason.”

Ace, how’d it go at the school?”

“Piece of cake. Dylan has the teacher and is getting him booked into the Detention center.”

“Don’t forget to get the button cam.”

“I won’t. I know this isn’t a social call so what’s up?”

“I received a call from ICE and they need a dog.”

“Permanently or a dog and a handler?”

“A team.”

“And you volunteered Tonka and me?”

“Well, I can’t think of a better team. Tonka had made some great drug busts.”

“When do they want us?”

“Considering the time, it will have to be tomorrow.”

“Where and what time?”

“Dulles and they’d like you there at 7am.”

“OK boss, we’ll be there.”

“Thanks Ace.”

“How can I refuse you, boss?

“Will you stop calling me boss?”

I was giggling. “You are my boss, aren’t you?”

“Technically, yes.”

“Alright then,” I answered with a smile on my face.

Ed ended the call then I finished talking to Judy. I got the button cam and put it in my jacket pocket.

Timmy gave me a hug and I had to return to the residence.

On my way back, I stopped at headquarters and returned the button cam. Ed filled me in on what I would be doing at the airport. He handed me a message from the DEA about the possible influx of cocaine in liquid form. He suggested I get some eye droppers from the lab so I went and talked with Dizzy. She gave me a handful of disposable ones then I returned to the residence.

As soon as I arrived, Bennie greeted me with his usual hug and kiss. “Did you arrest that bastard?”

I smiled at him. “He won’t be hurting anyone anymore.”

“Good.” Bennie replied as he kissed me firmly on the lips.

Just then I heard someone cough. I broke the kiss and there stood Ben. “Good afternoon Sir.” I said hoping I wasn’t going to get ripped.”

“How did your undercover operation fair?”

“It worked like a charm Sir, he’s been arrested and should be in a cell about now.”

He patted me on the back. “Nice work Ace.”

I smiled at him. “Thank you Sir. By the way, did Ed call you about tomorrow?”

“He did and I approved you and Tonka for the detail.”

“What detail Ace?” Bennie asked.

I knew why he was asking. “Tonka and I have an assignment tomorrow. Now before you ask, you can’t come love.”

His head dropped and he said, “Oh, alright.”

Bennie and I headed back to his room to relax before I had to get some sleep. I had just stripped and gotten into bed when my cell rang. I looked to see who was calling; it was Adam. “Mason.”

“Ace, it’s Adam.”

“What’s up man? I know this isn’t a social call.”

“You’re right. We have a huge problem.”

“A problem?” I asked. “What is it?”

“An Appeals Judge granted Harold Peterson an appeal.”

“He WHAT?” I screamed.

“You heard me.” Adam replied.

“Based on what?”

The judge claims we didn’t prove our case well enough to convict him in the murder of Curt Poole.”

“Has he lost his mind?” I asked. “What didn’t we prove?”

“We need to meet.” Adam said.

I had to go to Dulles in the morning. “When Adam?”

“As soon as possible. Can we meet tomorrow?”

“Adam, I have a case tomorrow.”

“What is it?”

“Tonka and I have to be at Dulles.”

“What are you doing there?” Adam asked.

“ICE requested us.”

“ICE?” Adam retorted. “Don’t they have a K9 available?”

“I don’t know but that’s where I’ll be.”

There was a period of silence. “How about we meet tonight.”

What choice did I have? So I agreed. “Alright Adam, when can you be here?”

Another round of silence then, “I can be there in about thirty minutes.”

“Alright Adam, I’ll see you when you get here.”

I ended the call then heard Bennie sigh. “You have to work love?”

“I do love, it comes with the job. We’re on duty twenty-four seven. You will be too when you become an agent.”

“You’re kidding, right?” Bennie asked.

“I don’t kid about this baby,” I answered as I got up and put my clothes on.

He sat up then I went around and sat on the edge of the bed. He held his arms out to I gave him a big hug and kissed him then went over to my room. I booted up my PC and started going over the evidence we had presented at the Peterson trial. I was looking at all the forensic evidence and staring me in the face was something missing. I started kicking myself in the ass. ‘You fucking idiot!’ I thought.

This was something a rookie agent wouldn’t have done.

I sat back and started thinking. At that time, we had just received the piece of evidence that proved Peterson owned the .357 magnum. We were so happy I’d forgotten everything else.

Just then my cell rang. “Mason.”

“Agent Mason, Adam Graham is here.”

“Let him in.”

“Yes Sir,” the gate officer replied and ended the call.

I told Bennie that Adam was here and I was going down to bring him up.

I went down to meet Adam and we came up to the residence. I brought him to my room and right away he saw the files I had up on the PC. “What’s this Ace?”

“My screw up Adam.” I answered.

“Your screw up?” Adam asked.

“Yes, I screwed up.”

“Please explain Ace, I’ve never known you to screw up.”

“Well, I did this time.” I started. “There is a piece of evidence missing and it was my fault.”

“What’s missing?”

“A trace blood report on Peterson’s shoes.” I answered.

“Did we get that done?” Adam asked.

I shook my head. “No, we didn’t.”

“Why not?” He asked.

“I just plain forgot.” I said hanging my head. “We had just received the Firearms form on Peterson’s gun and we felt we had the final piece.”

Adam put his hand on my shoulder. “Ace, it wasn’t all your fault.”

“Yes it was Adam,” I started. “I knew what we needed and I didn’t get the shoes tested. We have to go back to trial so this time, it won’t be missing.”

Adam broke into a smile. “That’s what I like about you Ace, you’re always thinking.”

“Yeah,” I said. “I think so well I can’t remember the basics.”

“Come on Ace, we have him now.” Adam said trying to pick my spirits up.”

I sighed and nodded my head. “Yeah, he’s not getting away this time. If there is trace blood that is Curt Poole’s, I’d love to see him explain that away.”

Adam’s head snapped up when he heard Ace’s statement. The two men talked for another few minutes then Ace really needed to get to bed. I walked Adam down stairs and watched as my friend left the property then I returned to Bennie’s room. I was quiet when I entered then heard the soft steady breathing coming from my lover which told me he was sleeping soundly. I got undressed the gently slipped into bed and quickly fell asleep.

The next morning I was up at 5am because I had to be a Dulles at 7. I eased out of bed then went to the bathroom to take a leak and grab a quick shower. I got my underwear on then slipped across the hall to my room and put on a clean suit. I quickly dressed and put on my weapon and cuffs then went out for some coffee.

I fixed a cup then sat down. The kitchen door opened then Gloria came in with breakfast. “Oh Gloria, I didn’t expect you to be up this early.”

“Señor Ace, I can’t let you go to work hungry. Now eat up before it gets cold.”

“You are a treasure,” I said then dug into my omelet. By 5:45, I was full and ready to leave for the airport. I set my plate in the kitchen and told Gloria I wouldn’t be here for lunch; then got Tonka and we got ready to leave.

As soon as we stepped outside, Tonka took off for a tree to do his business. When he was finished, he trotted back over to me then I got him into the Hummer.

I headed for the back gate then began the drive to Dulles. When I arrived at the terminal, I followed the sign to the International Arrivals. I saw several police vehicles in an open fenced area. I parked the Hummer then spoke to a local officer to ascertain it was alright to park there. I dropped my police vehicle placard then went inside the terminal. I looked for the arrivals area then made my way over to the CBP area. I showed them my ID and told them I was there at the request of the DEA.

An Agent from the DEA met me and explained why they needed me. A new form of meth was making its way into the country and they haven’t been able to stop it. “Have you been able to get your hands on a sample of it?” I asked.

“Not so far.” The agent replied.

I thought for a moment. “Well, Tonka here has a good nose on him so we’ll see what we manage to find today. If we get lucky and find this stuff, you then be able to use it to train your dogs.”

While we were talking we heard the announcement of an incoming flight from Tijuana. Tonka and I would have to be extra vigilant. Customs had set up a rope line so the passengers would have to almost walk down single file. This would enable Tonka to smell each passenger. Just then we saw the first of the passengers appear. I took my position and had Tonka sit.

The passengers passed and Tonka was doing his job when a CBP agent took a woman from the line. The DEA agent walked down and began to talk to her. She only spoke Spanish so I was only able to pick up bits and pieces of what she was trying to tell the agents. I could see the DEA agent getting frustrated. I spotted an Hispanic CBP agent so I asked him to see if he could assist with the female passenger.

All of the passengers from this flight had passed Tonka and me so I took him down to where the agents and the woman were. I had Tonka give her a once over and he didn’t alert to anything. I tapped the DEA agent on the shoulder. “I don’t think she’s carrying.”

“How can you be so sure?”

“Tonka has given her a good going over and he didn’t alert.” I replied.

He shook his head. “I can’t believe it. This woman has been on our radar for months now.”

“Does she have a record for carrying?” I asked.

He shook his head. “We’ve never been able to catch her red handed.”

I thought for a moment. “I think it’s time to cut your losses and let her go.”

He shook his head. “Not this time. I want to get her X-rayed.”

“Do you think you have enough probable cause?”

He sighed. “I don’t think so.”

“Then cut her loose. When is the next flight due in?”

“Not for another hour.”

“Where can I get some coffee?”

He look me into the agent’s break room. I saw the coffee pot so I fixed myself a cup. I saw an empty water bowl on the floor. “Is this bowl for any dog?” I asked.

I saw several agents shaking their heads so I got Tonka and gave him some water. The agents were taken aback by my K9 until he started trying to say hello. Tonka became a big hit. “Is he always like that?” An agent asked me.

I smiled. “Pretty much when he’s around other agents.”

“He can be very intimidating.”

“That he can be but it has its advantages. No one would try to out run him.”

The agent started laughing then said, “I wouldn’t either.”

I heard an announcement of another international arrival so Tonka and I had to go back to work. We went out into the terminal and took our positions. Soon, arriving passengers began to come through the line to make their way to Immigration. Tonka checked the passengers and no one seemed to be carrying anything illegal so it was a quiet arrival.

One of the ICE agents asked if I minded working a departing international flight and since it was quiet on the arrivals side I didn’t mind at all. Tonka and I made our way to the departure side and were given our location. The one thing we had to be on the lookout for were people trying to take American currency out of the country without declaring it.

Tonka and I were watching the passengers when a young family stopped and handed me their documents. My first question to them was, “Do you speak English?”

The man replied, “Yes officer, I do.”

His flight was to Mexico so I asked him if he had any American Currency he was taking with them. He told me he had a small amount. I had him show it to me then I asked how much did he have. He said he had about $800.00 so I had to count it.

I counted $960. “Sir, do you have any more money on you or in your luggage?”

“Um, no Sir.” He said.

I saw a Customs agent so I motioned for him to come over. I told him what I had so he took the family and checked them.

The rest of the day was quiet so after the last international flight arrived, Tonka and I were able to leave. We made the walk through the terminal so we could get outside to where I parked the Hummer. As we were walking out, a family with several young children spotted Tonka and one of them came up and started talking to me. “That’s a nice looking dog you have there.”

Tonka immediately sat and started wagging his tail then sat up waving his paw at them. He went over and licked their hand and rolled onto his back playing cute puppy. I knelt down and rubbed his stomach then the boy asked if he could pet him. I nodded my head then the boy began to pet Tonka. The father came over and said, “This is the first time I’ve seen a K9 let someone pet them.”

“Tonka is a good judge of character. If he likes them then they can pet him.”

“What does he do Agent?”

“Tonka can apprehend suspects plus he can find drugs and explosives.”

“That’s one smart dog.”

Tonka sat up and extended his paw. “He’s also a ham. He seems to know when people are talking about him.”

The father laughed then the family had to get to their flight. Just then my cell rang. I answered it and it was the DEA agent I’d met with earlier. He told me he managed to get the woman consent to a search.

He got a female agent to conduct the search and the woman told her it was that time of the month. The woman used tampons so the agent wanted the one that was inside her. The woman balked a little but the agent stood her ground. She had a nurse from medical come over and the woman relented and removed the tampon. The agent looked at the tampon and something didn’t look quite right. After a closer inspection, they found several capsules inserted in the tampon.

The agent tested the contents of the capsules and discovered it was crystal meth. The woman was arrested and charged with attempting to bring illegal drugs into the country. I’m glad I wasn’t there because this sounded way too gross for me.

Being gay definitely has its advantages. Bennie didn’t have that time of the month and neither did I.

Since the day was almost over, I told the DEA agent I was heading back to DC. Tonka and I headed outside and found the Hummer. We made the trip back to the residence without incident.

As soon as I parked, Tonka was eager to get out. He made a mad dash to a tree to empty his bladder. We headed upstairs to the residence and Bennie was waiting for us. Tonka gave my love a face washing. Then Bennie managed to get free and come over to give me a welcome home hug. “How was your day baby?”

“Nothing to write home about,” I replied.

“You didn’t catch anyone today?”

“Nope,” I started. “Some days are like that.”

I wanted to go over the evidence on the Peterson case. I saw the clock and I had ninety minutes before dinner. Bennie gave me a quick kiss then returned to his room. I stuck my head in and asked, “Is everything alright love?”

“I’m fine baby, I figured you might be tired and wanted a nap before dinner.”

It was a nice idea but I had to go over the stuff for Peterson’s retrial. He came over and gave me a hug then went back and started watching television again.

I went into my room and took off my jacket, shirt, tie and vest then started my PC. Before I started in on the task at hand, I went out to the dining room and got a cup of coffee. Returning to my room I started going over all the evidence collected and presented at the first trial. I looked at the photographs at Peterson’s shoes and looked for any signs of blood but didn’t see any.

I couldn’t believe I’d not had them tested for blood so I filled out a request and sent it to the lab. I sat back in my chair and put my feet up and started thinking. I was lost in thought with my cell rang bring me back to reality. “Mason.”

“Ace, how come we never tested those shoes? I mean they would be a sure fire conviction.”

“Slow down Dizzy,” I said softly. “Harold’s shoes slipped my mind testing them for blood splatter. We were so happy we found the pair with the cut in the sole we forgot about anything else. Carolyn, don’t you think someone who blew someone’s brains out would be covered in blood?”

“Well yeah Ace, they would look like someone right out of Friday the thirteenth.”

“What clothes of Harold’s do we have in evidence?” I asked.

I heard Dizzy pulling out note books. “Let’s see.” She started.

I heard her flipping through pages. “Ah hah, here it is. Trousers Navy blue 1 pair. Shirt, tee white 1 each.

Uniform, dress style; white with gold shield.”

She began telling me about the rest of what we had when it hit me. “Hold it Dizzy,”

“What?” she asked.

“Is that all that’s on the shirt?” I asked.

“Well yeah, that’s it.”

“Where is his nameplate?”

“His what?” Carolyn asked.

“His name plate.” I started. “Every uniformed officer has a name plate on their shirt and jacket.”

“I’ll have to look at the shirt to see if that was missed on the inventory.”

I didn’t want her breaking the evidence seal. “Hold up. Let’s take a look at the photographs.”

I dug into my files and found the photos taken. I thumbed through them and struck out. “Crap, nothing of his clothes were taken.” I guess you’re going to have to break the seal. Before you do, have Ed witness it. This way it can’t be questioned in court.”

“Man Ace, I can’t believe we slipped up.”

“Not to worry girl, we have it now.”

Carolyn was busy looking through her notebook of chain of evidence forms. “Ace, Ace, Ace.” She said excitedly.

“What is it?” I asked.

“I just found it.” Carolyn almost screamed.

“What is it?” I asked

“Why we didn’t have the shirt for the first trial.”

“And why was that?”

“It wasn’t back.” Carolyn exclaimed.

I was at a loss. “It wasn’t back from where?”

“The FBI,” Dizzy started. “We sent it out to the FBI crime lab so they could examine the shirt and run the DNA tests.”

“When did they get it back to you?” I asked.

“Two days after I testified.” Carolyn said. “The prosecution had rested and to be honest Ace, I really thought the case was a slam dunk. Otherwise I’d have tried to get the shirt entered into evidence.”

“You’re right I thought we had him cold. I have another call coming in. I’ll talk with you later. Bye.”

I ended the call and took the other one. “Mason.”

“Ace, Adam Graham here.”

“Yes Adam, what can I do for you?”

“Do we have the evidence ready for the new trial?”

“We do and we have a piece that was not here for the first trial.”

“What? How is that possible?”

“Carolyn had sent it out to the FBI lab and it wasn’t back. Will that be a problem getting it admitted?”

“No, this is a whole new trial. We’re back to square one. We’ll even have to seat a new jury.”

“How long will that take?”

“I have no idea but we did manage to keep the first trial out of the news.”

“I’ll be glad when he’s convicted and executed for his crimes.”

“I can’t disagree with you Ace but I have to remain impartial.”

“There is one thing missing and finding it will be a real challenge.”

“What is it?”

“Peterson’s name tag for his uniform shirt.”

“Good luck; that will be looking for a needle in a haystack.”

“Not really, I have an idea where it might be.”

“I’ll leave that project to you Ace.”

“Gee thanks.” I said.

“I have total confidence in you.”

“I will have to line up another Agent to escort Bennie at college.”

“How is he adjusting to college life?”

“He loves it. I think he made Dean’s List for the first semester.”

“I’m not surprised. He takes his education seriously.”

“That he does. I have to get cleaned up for dinner. I will talk with you later.”

To be continued...