“I prepared an agenda for you, Chief,” she said. “There are a few things that need your immediate attention, and afterward I’ll help you handle whatever comes up.”
“I need a cruiser,” Justice remarked as he scanned the agenda.
“A Ford Explorer is already in your spot.”
He looked up, surprised by her efficiency. “Thanks.”
“Are you going out in the field today?”
“Depends on what comes up. I’ll play it by ear.”
“If you do, take Officer Miguel Rivera with you. He was born and raised in Laguna Beach and knows the streets better than anyone else.”
“Got it.”
“Ready for roll call? Captain Locke has graciously agreed to allow you to do it this morning.”
“Graciously?” Justice repeated, arching an eyebrow.
“Graciously,” she confirmed. Her lips twitched a little, trying to suppress a smile.
He rose to his feet. “Let’s do this.”
Including Tawny as they walked side by side to the roll call room felt right. She gave Justice the impression she would do everything in her power to support his leadership. Only time would tell.
* * *
Captain Everett Locke, a twenty-year veteran, stood at the podium, waiting for Justice. He’d met the older man at his swearing-in the previous evening, and though Captain Locke mentioned that the chief’s position should have been his, he also said that Justice’s service record and demeanor impressed him. He’d give Justice the benefit of the doubt. As long as the kid didn’t step on his toes. Like now. This would be the first and last time he’d tolerate it.
Smiling, he shook Justice’s hand and stepped aside.
Justice followed procedure, calling the officers’ names and giving them their assignments.
“As always, stay safe. And take care of each other.”
Choruses of “Yes, Chief” echoed in the room as the officers filed past him.
Captain Locke gestured toward four officers who hadn’t been given their assignments. “What about them?”
“Officers Dooley, Carson, Morton, and Holcomb have a meeting with me.”
“What about?”
“Sexual harassment.”
“You’re kidding. They’re good officers.”
“Maybe. But I witnessed it firsthand yesterday morning at Pop’s Diner. Excuse me, Captain.”
In order to avoid an argument with Locke, Justice didn’t share what punishment he had planned for the officers. They followed him into his office, and he addressed them from behind his desk.
“I’ll make this short and sweet. You’re suspended for two weeks without pay. Turn in your badges and your guns.”
Officers Morton and Holcomb looked stricken, and a little green, but they complied without protesting. Justice almost felt sorry for them.
Officer Dooley tossed his badge onto the desk and removed his gun from its holster. “This isn’t the way you want to start your tenure,” he remarked, his voice flat, his eyes unfriendly.
“Is that a threat?” Justice demanded.
