Connie chuckles. “Oh, honey. You need food and a shower first, otherwise they might put you in the drunk tank.”
I frown as I stare at my best friend. “The drunk tank?”
She stares right back. “You smell like you bathed in wine.”
I glance down at my clothes; I didn’t spill any that I can see.
Connie stands as she says, “Go take a shower, you can borrow some of my clothes. I’ll fix us some eggs.”
“Thank you,” I mumble as she turns to the kitchen.
I stand, slower this time, but as I walk past her front window, a black car catches my eye. It’s parked one house down, and I can see movement inside the vehicle.
I wait a moment, and the person doesn’t get out. Dammit, Dad. A couple years ago, when Joseph’s bookie threatened to come after me, my dad had someone following me twenty-four seven. It looks like my dad is doing it again. That would explain how he knew where Cody was.
* * *
An hour later,I’m parked at the police station. So is the black car that followed me here. I’ll be calling my dad about that. I enter the police station and glance around. There’s a man sitting behind the front desk.
“Can I help you?” he asks without looking up.
“Yes, I’m here to see someone you have in custody.”
He still doesn’t look up. “Are you an attorney?”
I cross my arms. “No.”
“Then I’m afraid I can’t let you back. Only attorneys are allowed back.”
Dammit. Maybe I should’ve asked Connie to come. This would’ve been a lot easier.
Undeterred, I say, “Please, I need to get a message to Cody Anthony. He was brought in last night.”
The officer finally meets my eyes. “Cody Anthony was released this morning.”
“Oh.” What the hell, why didn’t he call? “Are you sure?”
“Yes,” he replies tersely. “Is there anything else I can help you with?”
“No. Thank you.” I swivel on my heel and get out of there.
Once outside, I check my phone and find one missed text from Cody letting me know he’s been released. Well, at least I know that cop wasn’t lying.
Instead of texting back, I dial Cody, and he answers right away. “I’m so glad you’re out. I’m so sorry about my dad.”
“Me too.”
“A black car has been following me—someone I’m sure my dad hired. That’s probably how he knew you were at my place last night. I’m so sorry, Cody. Being involved with me ruins your life.”
“Wait. What black car?”
“An SUV. I’m sure it’s someone working for my dad.”
I hear the jingle of keys in his hand. “Where are you?”
“The police station. I came to see you.”
“Don’t leave. Call your dad and ask if he knows who it is. Then call me right back. Okay?”
