Colby (Season Two: The Ninth Inning #6) Read online

  “Ce-Ce, you called our tip line and told us who shot Hotty.”

  “What’s the point of calling it if you’re going to drag me from my house where the whole block can see you take me?” She shakes harder. I could have told she didn’t call the tip line, but our main line, but I omit that part.

  “Ce-Ce, it’s not like that, we just need a little bit more information.” I keep my voice calm and try to easily reason with her.

  “If I tell you then I’ll be a snitch.” Tears began to form in her eyes.

  “It’s going to be okay. All you have to do it talk to me.” I reach out and take her hand. Mostly, we don’t touch our informants, witnesses, or suspects, but right now, I think she needs comfort and encouragement.

  It works.

  After a moment of silence, Ce-Ce begins to tell me everything she knows. Hotty, the young boy who was killed the other night, was a month shy of his eighteenth birthday, and wasn’t supposed to be out that night. Ce-Ce tells me who she thought had been mad at Hotty because of a turf issue.

  Once she finishes telling me everything and signs her statement, we send her on her way. I say a small prayer nothing happens to her until we find the guy she named. Dice. I drop my file on the desk and rest my head in my hands. When I open them, a large cup of coffee is in front of me and Duke is smiling.

  “You did good, Craft.”

  “Thanks, I think.”

  “You don’t think you did well?”

  “I got the name, and now, it’s time to find the guy and the evidence to tie him to Hotty’s murder.”

  “We’ll get it. I know we will.”

  I nod and go back through my notes and try to type it all up and figure out my next step. A few times my mind drifts to Colby. I try to contain my smile because I’m in the middle of a serious situation, but it’s hard. Kissing Colby and straddling him is something I want to do again very soon. It felt right. It felt as if I belonged on his lap and cradled in the crook in his neck.

  When I look down at my watch, I see another day has passed. I grab my phone and see Colby’s name.

  Colby: I know you’re busy, but I’m thinking about you. Hope it doesn’t sound too teenager-y. Yes, I think it’s a word.

  I cover my mouth to hide my massive-watt smile, but I can feel myself failing at it.

  Me: If it helps, I’m thinking of you too.

  I gather up my items, call my sister, and see what she’s planning for dinner.

  “Duke says you’re working your tail off.”

  “Hello to you too and yes I am, but I’m calling to see if you’re busy or want to grab a bite.”

  “Actually, Mom said she was going to call you and see if we can have a girl’s dinner.”

  “Oh God, that’s perfect.”

  “Then I’ll hand Lil D off to Dad and meet you two at the usual spot.”

  Before I can confirm, she’s already ended the call. She’s as busy as Mom ever was. However, I think I’m the same as Dad. We were raised with career-oriented parents and we followed the same path.

  I drive over to our favorite Mexican restaurant and Mom is already sitting in a booth. As always, she’s looks as if she can grace the cover of a fashion magazine. She is in a freshly pressed business suit, with her perfect blonde bob and, when she looks up at me, her flawless makeup finishes her ensemble.

  “Hello, Ariella.” I lean down and kiss her cheek. “Sweetie, you look so tired. Are you okay?”

  “I’ve had a few long nights.”

  Before Mom can question it further, the waitress comes over, and as much as I want to order a pitcher of margaritas, I decide sweet tea is a better option.

  “You shouldn’t push yourself,” Mom continues.

  “This coming from you,” I quip. “You’re a workaholic as much as I am.”

  Mom remains quiet, and I know I won the argument. At least, for the time being. Alizeh comes breezing in, and she is Mom’s mini-me. They’re almost wearing the same suit.

  “All right, I’m here and baby free. I’m ready.” She slides into the booth next to me.

  “Ready for what?” I question.

  Alizeh gives me a bright smile. “I’m ready for my big sister to tell me who was panting on the other end of the phone when Duke called you the other night.”

  “Do I want to know this? Should I go to the restroom?” Mom has a surprised look on her face.

  “No.” I tell mom and then turn to Alizeh. “No one was panting.”

  “Duke said you sounded out of breath.”

  I groan. “I was...I had been...I…”

  “Oh for God’s sake Ari, just tell us Colby was at your house,” Alizeh snaps at me. “Act like an adult.”

  I deflate and my shoulders sag. “Fine. Colby was there, but nothing was going on.”

  “You’re such a liar.” My sister pushes on my shoulder.

  I’m going to argue with her, but one, there’s no point, and two, the waitress comes back and takes Alizeh’s drink order, and we order our food.

  “Now, girls, I actually need to talk to you about something, and then Alizeh can get more information from Ariella about Colby when I’m not here.”

  Alizeh giggles next to me, and I do my best not to roll my eyes at her.

  “What do you want to talk about Mom?” I’m flooded with relief it’s a different topic, and I’m hoping it’s not about me.

  Mom smiles brightly. “Today at five was my last day of work.”

  Alizeh and I both drop our jaws. “What?”

  “I retired.”

  “Wha...How...when?” Alizeh is stammering over her words, and I can’t say anything at all.

  “I put in my notice six months ago, and I’ll tell your father tonight when I get home.”

  “Dad doesn’t even know? How did you keep this a secret?” Dad is a well-trained detective, and he had to have seen signs that Mom was leaving the firm.

  “I’m much better at hiding stuff from your father than he thinks I am.”

  “So, why did you do it?” Alizeh asks.

  “It’s time. I want to spend time with Fletcher, and I would like for us to travel a bit for pleasure and not because of some conference or something work related.”

  It takes a few seconds for Alizeh and I to figure out this is really happening. “Well, I’m happy if you are, Mom.” I speak up first.

  “Me too.” My sister raises her glass, and I do the same. “To Mom.”

  “To Mom.” I cheer and we all clink our glasses.

  Quickly, Mom begins to tell us all about how she worked her plan out, and she’s already planned the first trip for her and Dad to Biloxi, Mississippi and take in some of the resorts down there. I’m pleased to see her glowing at all the details, and I’m still trying to process how she isn’t going to be working anymore. I still can’t believe Dad has been retired for almost four years, because I didn’t think he would do it either.

  “Your turn, Ariella.” Mom calling my name brings me out of my thoughts. “Tell us how you and Colby are.”

  “Great,” is the first word I say. “I really like him, and I can’t believe I met such a nice guy through online dating.”

  “It’s not a bad thing. You just have to weed out the losers and liars.” Alizeh doesn’t hold back on her opinion.

  “Is it serious?” Mom’s interest is piqued.

  “We’ve been talking for a few weeks and most of it has been over the phone and texting because of our schedules.”

  “But there’s something.” Alizeh waves her finger in my face. “Tell us.”

  “There’s...feelings.” I’m not sure how to tell them there are many feelings on my end and I’m not sure if it’s because I want there to be or if they are really there. “We’re taking it slow.”

  “Not according to Duke,” Alizeh mumbles.

  “Colby wasn’t panting. We were kissing, and that’s it.” I omit the part where I was straddling him and dying to lift his shirt to see his abs.

  “Well, I’m
happy if you’re happy.” Mom uses my line on me.

  Alizeh begins to talk about her job at the DA’s office. I’m proud of how far she’s moved up the chain there. Even with her maternity leave, she’s still one of the top lawyers in there. I’m so proud to have her as my sister.

  When the food comes, we continue to talk about Mom’s newfound retirement. She’s excited to tell Dad, and I know he’ll be excited as she is. He’s wanted her to stop working ever since he retired, and now, he’ll get his wish.

  Once all the food has been eaten, and I finished my drink, we are all ready to go home. This case is beginning to creep up back to the front my thoughts. I hug and kiss my mother and sister and head home.

  Buster is jumping all around when I walk in the door and I usher him outside to make sure there’s no accident in the house. I sit on my back porch stairs and check my phone and there’s several messages from Colby.

  Colby: I’m glad you’re thinking about me too.

  Colby: Are you working tomorrow? What are you doing for lunch?

  Colby: You must still be working. Text me later

  I know I have a stupid grin on my face looking at Colby’s words on my phone’s screen.

  Me: I was at dinner with Mom and Sis. I’m working, but I can take a lunch.

  Colby: Angels are having a luncheon and we can bring others. I want you to be my guest.

  I don’t answer him right away and I’m a bit stunned thinking he wants me to go. Then again, he’s met my family; there’s not much difference in meeting the team because they’re his family.

  Me: What time?

  Colby: One. Right after practice.

  Me: I’ll be in ‘work’ clothes.

  Colby: Keep your handcuffs away from Tanner.

  I laugh aloud and Buster come up to where I’m sitting.

  “Well, Buster I have a date tomorrow.”

  I show my badge to the security officer and he waves me through. I have been a wreck since I woke this morning. I chose my light gray pantsuit and a pale pink blouse. The lighter colors help enhance my skin tone. Well, according to Alizeh it does. I have no clue.

  “Go down the hall to the left and that’s the dining hall for the player’s.” The man directs me.

  “Thanks.” I nod and head off in the direction he pointed.

  I’m almost there when Tanner appears in the hall. “Hey, Officer Craft.”

  “It’s Detective, actually.”

  “Is there a difference?”

  Without meaning to, I smart off. “Is there a difference between the minors and majors?”

  Tanner quickly gets the point. “Right. Sorry.”

  “It’s okay. I’m looking for Colby.”

  “Oh, you’re here for the lunch. Come on, I’ll take you.” He throws his arm around my shoulder and guides me to the dining hall.

  Colby is the one and only person I see in the whole room, even though the room is filled with a lot of people. He comes over to us and glares at Tanner.

  “What are you doing?”

  “I was helping Detective Craft find you.”

  “She doesn’t need you to grope her along the way.” Colby reaches out for me, and I easily step toward him and take his hand.

  “Thanks for helping me, Tanner.”

  “See.” He points at Colby. “She appreciated it.”

  I giggle as Tanner leaves us. “I was surprised at the invitation, Colby.”

  “I’m just glad you’re here.” He turns me toward the crowd, and even though I’m a trained-professional, I’m a bit star-struck at seeing all the Angels in one place and a bit nervous.

  “So, what does this entail? Just a lunch and meeting people?”

  “Yes, and you get to meet some of the other spouses and girlfriends. They’re all good people, and everyone will welcome you.”

  “Okay, and if not, I’ll check to see if they have any outstanding parking tickets and arrest them.” I try to joke and calm myself. Even though I’m not terribly funny.

  “I don’t think a lot of them are criminals. Although, someone should run a background check on Tanner,” he teases. “Come on.”

  I follow him farther into the room and several people turn and stare at me. I’m not sure if they’re happy or not to see Colby with someone. I remember him telling me some of the other players had made him sign up for online dating.

  Colby quickly takes me around the room and introduces me to everyone. I know the guys because I know the roster, but there are only a few females there and it isn’t so bad to remember their names.

  However, one girl’s eyes grow wide, and she rushes over to me and hugs me. “Um, hello.” Now, don’t get me wrong; I know I’m a Tennessee girl and hugging is part of our culture, but this girl is a bit handsy.

  “You don’t remember me.” She finally pulls back and I get better look at her face.

  “I’m sorry I don’t.”

  “Hector.” The tattoo girl grabs the arm of the Hector Rodriguez, the first baseman. “It’s her.” She points at me.

  I look over at Colby, and he shrugs.

  The girl whips around back to me. “I’m Zoey Reyes. You pulled me over last fall, and I was crying my eyes out because I fell in love with him.” She thumbs over to Hector, who’s shaking his head with a smile. “You told me to go for it. Do you remember?”

  It hits me. She had been one of my last stops before I was transferred into homicide. “Oh God, I do.”

  “I’ve wanted to say thank you so much.” She hugs me again.

  “She’s not usually a hugger. That’s Sofia’s department,” Hector chimes in.

  “It’s fine.” I pat her back and she releases me.

  “Thank you again.” She smiles.

  “You’re welcome.” Hector nods at me and pulls her away from us.

  “I think it’s the first time someone’s hugged me because they were pulled over.” I lean over to Colby.

  “I wouldn’t think it happens often either, but it sounds like you deserve it.”

  “I do remember her crying a lot and I felt bad for her. Sofia’s Blake’s girlfriend, right? She works here?”

  “Yeah, she’s our massage therapist. Want to meet her? She is a hugger and if she finds out you need help or have a problem, she’ll butt in and help you. Pretty sure that’s how she ended up with Blake.”

  “It’s part of our southern charm. We’re nosy, but for good reason. Oh, and we love our sweet tea.” I joke with him again as we head to a table with Blake and other players. I think one is Roman Dailey and the other Spencer O’Dell, but they look a little younger than I thought.

  “Sweet tea I can agree with,” Colby says as we reach the table. “Ariella, you remember Blake, and that’s his girlfriend, Sofia. And this is Spencer O’Dell and Roman Dailey.”

  “Oh, you’re Colby’s new friend. I’m Sofia.” She stands and hugs me, and Colby chuckles behind us.

  “I’ve been told you’re the hugger.” I smile when she lets go and we both sit down.

  “I am. Sorry,” she shrugs and Blake wraps his arm protectively around her. You can see the love between them and her swollen belly. It’s sweet.

  “Not a problem, it’s fine.”

  “Great, and working with these boys, you can’t be offended by anything they say.” She dramatically rolls her eyes.

  Tanner jumps into the conversation. “She’s only saying that because apparently no one likes when I honestly say she has the hands of a God.”

  “Hands of a God?” I glance at Sofia.

  “We don’t think he’s had a lot of female interaction. It’s like when a stray puppy finds a home, they never leave.” Blake tries not to smile, but he smirks slightly.

  “I am hurt by that. I don’t have any problems getting laid. You can ask Roman, Spence, or Jordan about that time I stayed at his house. I just like to compliment Sofia’s talent.” He beams at her.

  I reach over in a caring way and pat his hand. “I’m sure you’re very capable of getting
laid, Tanner. We don’t need to get confirmation from other teammates. Frankly, I don’t want to know why the others know of the escapades,” I tease him.

  “He’s actually quite harmless,” Sofia defends him. “Tell us about you, Ariella. Blake tells me you’re a police officer.”

  “A detective, yes. I grew up here in Memphis, and I’ve been on the force for fourteen years. Sadly, there’s not much to tell besides that.” I’m a bit embarrassed I don’t have more to tell them. My life isn’t glamorous.

  “I don’t think it’s sad at all. I mean, you risk your life daily to protect the innocent. I think it’s very brave.” Sofia beams, and I can see why Colby likes her. She’s very kind.

  “Thanks.”

  When the food comes, I realize how much food a baseball player can eat. They all piled their plates high. The conversation was all over the place from babies, weather, baseball, and playoffs. I’m having fun, until my phone rings.

  “Craft,” I quickly answer when I see Duke’s name.

  “Hey, sorry to cut your lunch short, but they just found Ce-Ce all beat up, and she’s headed to the hospital.”

  I want to cuss, but I refrain. “I’ll head to the hospital first to check on her. Meet me there.”

  “Okay. Meet you there.”

  I turn to Colby. “I’m so sorry, but I have to get back. I feel horrible, but I need to go.” I smile at our tablemates. “It was great to meet you all.” I stand, as does Colby and he follows me out.

  “Is everything okay?” he asks when we reach the car.

  “My witness is the hospital. I have to go figure out who put her there and then get his ass.”

  “Hey.” He hugs me close. “It’s fine. Go and call me when you can.” He gives me a quick kiss. “Be careful.”

  “I always am.” I give him another swift kiss and then head to the hospital.

  “WHAT’S NEW, COLBY?” my sister, Karen, asks.

  “You first.”