Wednesday Story Day – AKA – Hump Day

February 20, 2019February 19, 2019 ~ John W. Howell ~ 50 Comments

“Don’t tell me this is Wednesday.”
“It’s Wednesday.”
“I told you not to tell me that.”

It is Wednesday Story Day again, and last week we learned that the engineer who verified the fact that Sandusky’s machine did not work died on a ski slope with a blood alcohol level of 2.0. Larry wanted to talk to Captain Swartz who is the head of police at South Lake Tahoe but couldn’t get him on the line. Andrew was tasked in finding the engineer’s wife so that Larry can find out how much the engineer was used to drinking. Andrew is coming back into Larry’s office with a smile on his face. Let’s see what he has found.

“Okay, Larry. I have good news.”

“Be still my beating heart. I’m not sure I can handle good news.”

“I found Raffety’s wife. You know the engineer?”

“My goodness, man I’m not your age. I remember. That is good news. Where is she?”

“She still is in their house in Boxborough. “

“Whoa, that is pretty expensive real estate.”

“Yeah, I know. I did some checking, and their house is a 3200 square foot place, so you know it is over a mil.”

“I wonder why the payments are on a joint like that?”

“Funny thing. I could not find a mortgage holder on that property. Looks like the place is free and clear.”

“What the heck did Rafferty do? Own an engineering company?”

“The best I could find out he only worked for Cortez.”

“So, all his money came from his job?”

“I guess so. I couldn’t find any relationships with big money in his family.”

“So, I’ll bet Cortez more or less owned him. Rafferty got used to the good life and couldn’t break away.”

“You are assuming he wanted to break away.”

“Well, it seems strange that he ends up dead doesn’t it?”

“You have me there. You think he somehow let Cortez know he was through with whatever he was doing?”

“I just have a feeling that Rafferty was into far more with Cortez than just engineering work. Living where he did does not come cheap. Having a house that is paid for is a red light as well.”

“You mean flag, Larry. Red light is a whole different thing. We should talk to the wife. Maybe she knows something.”

“Geez Andrew. Ya think? That’s why I asked you to find her. Do you have a phone number?”

“Yes, sir boss. Here it is.”

“I’m watching you, Andrew. I detect black sarcasm in the classroom.”

“Just pulling your chain, Boss. So much fun.”

“Quiet it’s ringing. Hello. Mrs. Rafferty? This is Detective Dunfee of the Boston Police Department. I’m very sorry to intrude and am sorry for your loss… Yes, well my associate and I are working on a case and think you can shed some light on the circumstances of your husband’s accident…I know the South Tahoe Police talked to you…Yes, I think it is very important…At your convenience…This afternoon would be perfect. Thank you so much. Is two o’clock okay? Yes, we can be there by one. I understand about the kids coming home. We will see you at one. No that’s okay I have your address. Goodbye Mrs. Rafferty.”

“That went well, Mr. Smooth.”

“She sounds like a very nice person. She did tear up though. This is going to be an emotional afternoon Andrew.”

“Sounds like a pastrami kind of day.”

“You are a devil dog you know. I’m in. Let’s hit Sam LaGrassas’ on the way.”

“I’ll drive.”

Wednesday Story Day – AKA – Hump Day

February 13, 2019February 12, 2019 ~ John W. Howell ~ 59 Comments

“So it is not Friday after all.”
“No Little Potato. It’s Wednesday.”

It is Wednesday Story Day again, and last week we were present when Cortez paid a visit to Larry and Andrew. It was no surprise that Cortez said he had nothing to do with Sandusky’s murder. What was a surprise was to find out the engineer who reported that the medical equipment was not working ended up dead in a skiing accident. Cortez left the report that the engineer developed. We need to get back to Larry’s office since he and Andrew are trying to figure out the next step.

“I have to say the man has cheek.”

“What do you mean by that, Andrew.”

“He waltzes in here hands us a report, and then boldly denies he killed Sandusky.”

“What would you do?”

“I see your point.”

“The surprise to me was the engineer being killed.”

“Sounds fishy doesn’t it?”

“Yeah. I think we better look into that so-called accident. There might be a little more to it.”

“What is the engineer’s name? I’ll look him up on Google.”

“Let me see. Here it is at the bottom of the report. Alexis Rafferty.”

“Okay, here I go. A-l-e-x-i-s-r-a-f-e-r-t-y. Is that right?”

“Nope. Two fs”

“Okay got it. Here it is. The accident happened at Heavenly Ski Resort in South Lake Tahoe. Looks like he was doing a night trail and ran off into the trees.”

“Night skiing huh? Already sounds suspicious. Any quotes from the police?”

“Yeah. A captain Swartz was quoted as saying it was an unfortunate accident and our thoughts go to the family.”

“I think we ought to give Swartz a call and see what the official report stated. I wonder if they did an autopsy?”

“Most communities are part of a medical examiners data base. Let me do a query.”

“You go doc. How long will it take?”

“Twelve seconds Mr. Type A. Here it is.”

“What does it say?”

“Hold on let me read a little. Um hum. Yup. Yeah well, who would have guessed?”

“Damn Andrew. Can you share.”

“It looks like our Mr.Rafferty was bombed out of his mind. His BAC was 2.0. Not 0.02, but 2.0. I would imagine he would have a tough time walking let alone navigate a ski lift and skis.”

“I think we are needing to give Swartz a call. Also, any next of kin?”

“Let me go back to the story. Yes. He left a wife and a couple of kids.”

“Where are they?”

“The paper says Boston, but they might have moved by now.”

“Let’s see if we can track them down. I need to ask the wife about Rafferty’s drinking habits.”

“I’ll do a search.”

“Great. While You are doing that, I’ll give Swartz a call.”

“May take some time.”

“That’s okay. Yes hello. This is detective Dunfee of the Boston Police Department. I wonder if Captain Swartz is available? Yes, I can hold.”

“Is he there?”

“Not sure. I’m on hold.”

“The power of Dunfee.”

“Smartass. Oh no, I was talking to an associate. He’s not available huh? Would you please ask him to call me back? It is in regards to the Rafferty accident. Yes. That’s Dunfee. The number 617 555-5000. No extension. Just have him ask for me. Thank you. Oh, one more thing. Tell him it is urgent.”

“Maybe he is working a case.”

“Yeah, right. Not getting on the phone is number two on the suspicious list.”

“I’m sure everyone would drop what they are doing to talk to the famous Detective Dunfee.”

“Shut up, Andrew and find that wife.”

“Aye, aye, Legree.”

Wednesday Story Day – AKA – Hump Day

February 6, 2019February 5, 2019 ~ John W. Howell ~ 61 Comments

Twiggy — “Tell me it’s Friday.”
“It’s Wednesday.”
“Tell me something else.”

It is Wednesday Story Day again, and last week we were stunned to witness Cortez’s office call and make an appointment for a visit by none other than Cortez. It is close to three so let’s get over to Larry’s office. This should be interesting.

“Yes hello. He’s here? Okay give me one minute and then send him in.”

“So, what are you going to do, Larry?”

“I guess I’m going to hear what Cortez has to say.”

“I can’t believe he is coming to you. Reminds me of the mountain coming to Mohammed saying.”

“Yeah, kinda gives me the creeps. Let’s just play it cool and hear him out. Wait I hear the officer in the hall.”

“Sir, Mr. Cortez to see you.”

“Thank you, officer. My, what a pleasure Mr. Cortez. Please come in.”

“Thank you, detective. May I sit here.”

“Of course. You remember my associate Andrew Cummings.”

“Good to see you again, Mr. Cummings.”

“You can call me Andrew. Nice seeing you as well.”

“Well then call me Joachim.”

“I’m Larry, Joachim. Would you like a water or coffee?”

“No thank you, Larry. I’m good.”

“So, Andrew and I have been wondering what brings you down here to see us.”

“I think the last time we met, I was a little rude. I simply want to apologize. I was having a bad day, and I think I took it out on you.”

“Please don’t give it a second thought. I know we all have had days where things just seem to go wrong.”

“Thank you for your understanding. I do want to clear up the point about the equipment working when my company received it.”

“That would be great, Joachim.”

“When we got the equipment from Louis, I had my engineer check it over. He told me he didn’t believe it would work.”

“Did he test it.”

“Not at the time. We did put it into a controlled test, and sure enough, it didn’t work. That’s why I refused to pay Louis.”

“Very understandable. May I ask if your engineer did any kind of report?”

“Yes, he did. Here is a copy.”

“Thank you. This is very helpful.”

“I have a question for you, Larry.”

“Go ahead by all means.”

“Why are you so interested in Sandusky’s death?”

“That is a good question. We have reason to believe his death was a murder.”

“And you suspect that I had something to do with it.”

“Well, we have no proof.”

“Let me assure you, detective. I had absolutely nothing to do with the death of Sandusky. As far as I was told he took his own life.”

“That is what was meant to be the message, Joachim. We suspect otherwise.”

“Let’s leave it at this. If I can be of assistance just let me know.”

“There is one thing that might help.”

“Name it.”

“Can we speak to the engineer?”

“I wish you could. Unfortunately, he was killed in a skiing accident last February.”

“Oh. I’m sorry for your loss. That is unfortunate. Is there anyone else who might understand the equipment?”

“I’ll have to think about that, detective. Now if you will excuse me. I have some other appointments in the downtown area.”

“Thank you again for your help. We’ll be in touch should we need more.”

“Anytime, detective. Nice meeting you Andrew.”

“My pleasure, Joachim.”

“The officer will escort you out. Good talking with you.”

“Thank you, detective. Good day to you both.”

“Don’t say anything Andrew he could still be close.”

Wednesday Story Day – AKA – Hump Day

January 30, 2019January 29, 2019 ~ John W. Howell ~ 46 Comments

“Is it Friday?”
“No, it’s Wednesday.”
“I’ll continue with my sunbath until Friday then.”

It is Wednesday Story Day again, and last week we saw Larry try to contact Gloria about how to get evidence on Cortez. We were all surprised to find out Gloria was on holiday. Our biggest shock was the knowledge that spirits take holidays. Before he left Micki’s shop, she suggested that he try to get the goods on one of Cortez’s confidants and then have the confidant supply information on Cortez. I believe the phrase is “rat out Cortez.” Larry is just getting back to his office where Andrew is waiting.

“Hey, Andrew.”

“You look pretty glum chum.”

“Longfellow you are not. I just came from Micki’s shop.”

“Micki? Ah, a delightful person.”

“She gives you her best.”

“I wish I had gone with you.”

“For more tea?”

“You are funny, Larry. How’d you know about tea?”

“She offered me a cup.”

“A cup? She was really talking about tea then.”

“What are you talking about?”

“Oh, never mind. Did you get in touch with Gloria?”

“No, she was on vacation.”

“Excuse me? I’ve never heard of a spirit going on vacation.”

“Yeah, spare me. I have a headache.”

“So what’s our next move?”

“Let’s get a list of all of Cortez’s closest associates. I think we can nab one of them for something and get him to turn state’s evidence in exchange for information on Cortez’s involvement with the murder.”

“So, you really think he killed Sandusky?”

“If not, I’m certain he ordered it.”

“I guess it wouldn’t hurt to take one of those criminals off the street.”

“We have to get someone high enough in his organization to make it meaningful.”

“You got the list?”

“Let’s sit down at my computer, and you can look over my shoulder while I go through the Cortez file.”

“I didn’t know you had a Cortez file.”

“Yeah, we have been watching him for a few years.”

“Let’s do it.”

“While this blunderbuss is warming up, would you be so kind as to get us a cup of coffee.”

“Wonderful idea, Boss. Be right back.”

“Of course, the phone. Hello. Yes, this is detective Dunfee.”

“I’m back.”

“Hush. It’s Cortez’ office. Yes, I’m here. What can I do for you? Of course. Three o’clock. That would be fine. Thank you. Goodbye.”

“What the hell?”

“Cortez is coming over for a visit.”

“You must be kidding.”

“Three o’clock. I think he is worried.”

Wednesday Story Day – AKA Hump Day

January 23, 2019January 22, 2019 ~ John W. Howell ~ 51 Comments

“Lucy. I think I see Friday from here.”
“Sorry Little Potato that is Wednesday wearing a Friday hat.”

It is Wednesday Story Day again and last week we were there when Andrew and Larry discussed what to do as a result of Larry insulting Cortez to his face. The best Larry could come up with is to “find somebody who really knows what went on.” I think we all did a double take on that one since it would require finding someone who would be willing to rat out the biggest killer on the planet. Let’s get back to Larry since he is walking into Micki’s fortune telling shop.

“Why hello detective. Glad to see you again.”

“Hi, Ms. Lee. I think I need some help again.”

“You can call me Micki. What’s the problem now?”

“Gloria told me to follow the motive and I would find the suspect in the Sandusky murder.”

“So?”

“We think we found the motive.”

“Okay. Who is the “we?’”

“Andrew and me.”

“Oh, that too handsome for his clothes, Andrew?”

“Er. I suppose.”

“We had such a nice cup of tea.”

“Yes, well. I wonder if we can talk to Gloria?”

“I think that could be arranged. Come with me.”

“Thank you.”

“Make yourself comfortable. Close your eyes and I’ll see if Gloria is available.”

“Oh, my goodness, detective. Gloria is on holiday.”

“On holiday? How do you know that?”

“There is a note on her ethereal portal.”

“Ethereal portal? What the heck is an ethereal portal.”

“It is the place where I go to summon a spirit. Each spirit has their own.”

“You say Gloria is on holiday.”

“Yes, she will be gone for two of our weeks.”

“Where the heck did she go for a holiday if she is in heaven?”

“She really didn’t say. I’ll read you the note. Hello all. Thank you for stopping by but I have gone on holiday and will be back next lune day. Love, Gloria.”

“Hello, all. Who is she talking about?”

“I’m sure it is a message for her heavenly friends.”

“Well, that just takes the cake. I may not be alive in two weeks.”

“My goodness, detective. What is the problem?”

“It is a long story, Ms. Lee. I’m sure you have better things to do than hear my troubles.”

“Would it have anything to do with that horrible man Cortez?”

“How on Earth did you know.”

“It’s not Earth where I get my information. I have other sources.”

“So, what am I to do.”

“If it were me, and it is not me, you understand. I would get the goods on one of his closest associates and see if you can get him to turn against Cortez.”

“I had the same idea, and Andrew pooh-poohed it.”

“He’s good looking but not always far-sighted.”

“Okay then. You’ve made me feel a lot better. I think a lot of folks thought I had lost it.”

“You had better work quickly though. I can feel the wrath of Cortez starting to build.”

“He killed Sandusky, right?”

“I’m not that sure. If you can get someone to tell you what went down that night, I think you can make a case. Now, how about a nice hot cup of tea before you leave?”

Wednesday Story Day – AKA Hump Day

January 16, 2019January 15, 2019 ~ John W. Howell ~ 52 Comments

It is Wednesday Story Day again and last week the hair on our neck went up as Cortez seemed to pull a Jeckle and Hyde personality change. It looked like he took an exception to Larry’s declaration that the device worked when Cortez said it didn’t. Larry and Andrew left Cortez’s office as fast as they could and hot-footed it back to the police building. Let’s get there too and see what the guys think about the visit with Cortez.

“Holy shit. That guy just threatened us.”

“Calm down Larry. He is a cartel head. You don’t go calling him a liar.”

“I didn’t call him a liar.”

“I think he thought you did.”

“When?”

“Remember when he told you the device didn’t work?”

“Yeah, of course.”

“Then you told him you had information that it did work.”

“That was the truth.”

“But do you think he wanted to hear the truth and especially if he just told you the exact opposite.”

“What if I told you I did that on purpose?”

“I would think you have lost your mind.”

“Well, I wanted to see if I could get a rise out of him.”

“You certainly did that, my friend. Now that you have taken a stick to the hornet’s nest, what are you going to do?”

“He doesn’t have the guts to come after police officers.”

“I wouldn’t stake my life on that.”

“The point is. That bastard didn’t pay Louis just because he didn’t want to do it.”

“And your point is?”

“I think he killed Sandusky.”

“You have no proof.”

“We can get the proof. All we have to do is find someone who really knows what went on.”

“Sometimes I’m amazed by your brilliance.”

“Why thank you.”

“This is not one of those times.”

“What do you mean?”

“How are you going to penetrate that mob and once you do, how are you going to get someone to rat out Cortez?”

“I think you have stated the objective very well. I must confess I don’t have all the details worked out as yet.”

“You might as well consider one other problem while you are working on your plan.”

“What would that be?”

“How to stay alive.”

Wednesday Story Day – AKA – Hump Day

January 9, 2019January 8, 2019 ~ John W. Howell ~ 52 Comments

“What time is it?”
“It’s Wednesday. Go back to sleep Little One. I set the alarm for Friday.”

It is Wednesday Story Day again, and last week we were present when Andrew and Larry questioned Louis about his involvement with Joachim Cortez the head of the Mendoza cartel. We learned that Cortez is somehow part of a legitimate medical device company and he never paid Louis. We also determined the reason Louis didn’t mention this information when first questioned is he was afraid. In fact, it is the same reason he never tried to collect the money from Cortez. I see Larry and Andrew have entered the Healthway Medical Device Company and are approaching the receptionist. I guess they decided to take the bull by the horns and visit Cortez. I think this may not be the best move but certainly want to be there when they confront Cortez. Andrew is taking a seat and Larry is talking to the receptionist.

“Yes, that’s right. I’m Detective Dunfee. Here is my card. I would like to visit with Mr. Cortez.”

“Mr. Cortez is in a meeting. Do you have an appointment?”

“No, but this is official police business.”

“Can I inform Mr. Cortez the nature of the meeting?”

“You can tell him I have some questions regarding Mr. Sandusky.”

“Very well, sir. If you have a seat, I’ll see if Mr. Cortez can be interrupted.”

“Thank you.”

“So, what did she say?”

“To have a seat and she’ll see if Cortez can be interrupted.”

“You tell her about Sandusky?”

“Of course. “

“You sure this is the best approach?”

“I’m telling you, Andrew, I would rather be anywhere else but her. I don’t know if this approach is the best or not. I do know we need to push this case forward. Hell, we may just scare up a few leads while we are here.”

“You use the term, ’scare’ very lightly.”

“Ha ha. That’s pretty funny.”

“What about the person Louis talked to here.”

“A Miss Alverez? I think we can contact her anytime. I have a feeling she isn’t going to give us anything new.”

“So it’s the big guy or nothing?”

“Yup.”

“Mr. Dunfee?”

“Yes?”

“Mr. Cortez will see you now.”

“Okay, thank you.”

“Please follow me.”

***

“Ah, detective please come in. Who else is with you?”

“This is Andrew Cummings the former city Medical Examiner.”

“My pleasure sir. Won’t you both have a seat? Can I get you something to drink? A coffee perhaps.”

“No thank you, Mr. Cortez. We both had ours.”

“Well then what can I do for you today?”

“We have opened Sandusky case since we believe he was murdered.”

“I see. I think I remember that unfortunate situation. It was about ten years ago. Didn’t he take his own life?”

“I would rather no comment on a case currently being investigated. I do have some questions for you though.”

“For me? I don’t know how I can help, but please go ahead.”

“Did you hire Sandusky’s company to develop a medical procedure?”

“I believe we hired an employee of that company as a consultant. His name was Louis something or another I believe.”

“Yes, Louis Stamos.”

“Ah yes. That’s it.”

“What was the nature of the equipment you wanted to be developed?”

“We were looking for a non-invasive surgical method.”

“Did Louis develop it”’

“He said he did.”

“What do you mean?”

“We got the prototype, and it didn’t work.”

“So you didn’t pay him?”

“Correct. How do you know all this.”

“We talked to Louis.”

“Why’s that?”

“We have reason to believe that the device worked just fine.”

“I would be cautious what you say from here on out, detective. I have been nice enough to visit with you. This courtesy will end very soon if I believe you are hinting that I’m less than truthful. In any case, I do believe this conversation is over. My person will show you out.”

“Thank you, for your time.”

“One more thing detective. I have friends who don’t take kindly to people insulting me. Am I making myself clear?”

“Chrystal, Mr. Cortez.”

Wednesday Story Day – AKA – Hump Day

January 2, 2019January 1, 2019 ~ John W. Howell ~ 74 Comments

It is Wednesday Story Day again, and the last time we were present when Andrew and Larry decided to talk to Louis rather than to confront the cartel boss Cortez. The question for Louis is, did the cartel stiff him on payments for the development of the non-invasive medical procedure. Another thing Larry and Andrew will want to know is why Louis didn’t mention the fact that he was being paid by Cortez. So let’s get back to Larry’s office and eavesdrop on the conversation.

“So Louis. We are glad you could come down to the station.”

“What is this all about, detective?”

“Excuse me, Louis. I didn’t ask if you would like a coffee.”

“No thank you. I’ve had mine today. You are now making me nervous.”

“Aw come on, Louis. There is nothing to be nervous about. We are all friends here.”

“Yeah, right. You two have something on your mind, and I would appreciate knowing what it is.”

“Louis?”

“Yes, Andrew.”

“We think you have been less than forthcoming with us.”

“What do you mean ‘forthcoming?”’

“What Andrew is trying to say, Louis is we found out that you were on Joachim Cortez’ payroll.”

“Yeah, detective. I thought I was on the payroll.”

“Tell us about it, Louis. Let’s not leave anything out this time.”

“You know what, detective? Anyone who even mentions Joachim’s name is in fear for his life.”

“I can understand your fear, but now is the time to come clean.”

“I don’t suppose it matters anymore. Okay, what do you want to know?”

“Did you get paid by Cortez?”

“Hell no. The bastard never sent the money.”

“Did you do the work?”

“I sure did. I delivered the system to him, and he said he would send a check.”

“A check from the cartel boss. That almost makes me laugh.”

“Well laugh on this. Cortez has one of the biggest medical device company by the throat.”

“What are you saying?”

“He controls a medical company.”

“How is that possible?”

“I have no idea but believe me I checked it out. When I called the company to verify his involvement, I got a person who vouched for him.”

“Do you remember the person’s name?”

“I wrote it down in my journal. I can get it.”

“Okay, so you believed he would send a check.”

“Yeah.”

“When you didn’t get paid did you call him?”

“Sure did.”

“What happened.”

“I was told to back off and that the check is in the mail.”

“It never arrived.”

“Right.”

“What did you do?”

“Nothing.”

“Why not?”

“You ever hear the saying about tugging on Superman’s cape.”

“I understand.”

Wednesday Story Day – AKA Hump Day – Bailey is at Peace

December 26, 2018December 25, 2018 ~ John W. Howell ~ 103 Comments

I normally have a story today, but with deep sadness I want you to know that Bailey has crossed over the Rainbow Bridge. On Sunday it was clear she was starting to experience difficulty. The time came to seek help in ending her journey here and let her begin a new chapter over the Rainbow bridge.

I have posted a few photos that have been seen on the A Little Personal feature.

We will miss her.

Thank you for all the support and helpful words during this time of challenge for our family.

Bailey

“Why, yes Pops. I am beautiful.”

“Hey, you guys. What are you doing?”

Bailey

“Summer and a back roll. Nothing finer.”

Bailey

“Do I really need to play with that Little Potato?”

“This is living.”

“I’m telling you little one, this water will be deep, so be careful.”

Bailey

“I think you are in my spot.”

Bailey and Twiggy

“Pops. What the heck have you and mom done?”

“Hey, kids. It’s the UPS truck heading our way”

Bailey

“I bet it would be helpful to have thumbs.”

“Man I hate it when they back up.”

“My kingdom and an interloper.”

So long, for now, Bailey girl. We’ll meet again.

Wednesday Story Day – AKA – Hump Day

December 19, 2018December 18, 2018 ~ John W. Howell ~ 42 Comments

It is Wednesday Story Day, and last week we went with Larry to question Ned Dixon about what he might know regarding any money connection to Sandusky’s murder. We were shocked to find out Sandusky had set up a trust for an unnamed beneficiary that is now worth fifteen million dollars. We also found out that whoever tries to claim the money must show up at the bank with a key to Sandusky’s safe deposit box. The box contains a protocol which the beneficiary must satisfy. I think we were gobsmacked to find all this out. You have to wonder what Larry thinks of all of this. Wait there was another point. Sandusky took out a loan based on an agreement signed by the notorious cartel leader, Cortez. Let’s go to Larry’s office and find out what he is thinking.

“So, Andrew. Do you believe all this shit?”

“I must say there are more twists in this case than a rattler on an anthill.”

“Where di you get that saying?”

“I just made it up.”

”You are on the East Coast for heaven’s sake. That good ole boy analogy doesn’t seem to fit.”

“I guess it must be these new boots I bought.”

“Handsome for sure. Drop the Western crap.”

“Yes sir, boss.”

“Can do without cool hand Luke as well.”

“What is bothering you today.”

“We are no closer to finding out who killed Sandusky than we were before we started. Also, we know that Cortez is somehow wrapped up in this thing which has the potential to make our lives a living nightmare.”

“Maybe we should just let sleeping dogs lie.”

“Easy for you to say. You don’t have a spirit hounding you every night.”

“We need to think this one through. Gloria said to follow the money, and now we have more questions than answers.”

“Let’s take a step back then. We know Sandusky and Louis were successful in developing a new surgical procedure, right?”

“Yeah, I guess so.”

“We also know Cortez signed an agreement to pay for it.”

“Yeah, that’s right.”

“We do not know what the Cartel wanted to do with the procedure.”

“So far you are stating the obvious.”

“We have to ask ourselves another question.”

“Which is?”

“Why did we have to hear all this from the banker and not Louis?”