Read Online Best Defense by Randy Rawls - Free Book Online

asked. “I thought you’d be retired by now, emptying every fishing hole in Lake Lewisville.”
    â€œNaw. I tried it, but only lasted a year. Came crawling back, begging for any position they’d let me have. Since I’m so danged ancient, they gave me a night desk. I’m guessing you didn’t call to renew old acquaintances though. Why do you need to contact Pam? You do know she kicked over to computer fraud, don’t you?”
    â€œNo. I didn’t know that.” I paused, hoping Ike still felt like stretching out a protective wing. “I’m looking for a favor. I live in Florida now, but my Mom’s in Richardson. There’s a stalker outside her window, and she’s scared out of her wits.” I told him about her call, leaving out nothing, including the response to her nine-one-one call. I drew another distinctive laugh when I mentioned the name Strudnocker.
    â€œShe really went out with someone with that moniker? Tell her I have several unmarried friends with much better names. If she’s anything like you, I can set her up in a heartbeat.”
    â€œI’ll let her know, but first I have to get her out of this mess. She dated him, now she’s terrified of him. Can you do anything to help me?”
    There was silence on the line as I pictured him sorting through possibilities. “Best I can think of is for me to clock out and go over and keep an eye on her. I have a patrol car and wear the uniform. It should be enough to encourage him to leave.”
    â€œThat would be wonderful,” I said. “But can you just walk away?”
    â€œSure. What are they going to do, retire me?” He rolled out the laugh again. “However, young lady, we’re only solving her problem for the rest of tonight. Unless the guy does something overt, we can’t arrest him or provide protection for your mom. What’re you going to do come daylight?”
    â€œI’m working on it. One problem at a time. How soon do you think you can be there? I have her sitting in bed with a gun pointed at the door. I’d like to tell her the cavalry is on the way.”
    â€œYeah,” he said, chortling. “Old, out-to-pasture cavalry. Sure hope I don’t have to get in a foot race with him. He’d win, hands down.”
    â€œThanks, Ike. I owe you a fishing trip. Come to Florida, and I’ll charter you a boat.”
    â€œYou got it. Here’s my cell number. I need yours, your mother’s, and her address. I’ll call as soon as I’m in place and your stalker has hit the road.”
    He read off his ten-digit number, and I wrote it down, feeling like the weight of the world was lifting off my shoulders. Then I reciprocated by giving him the info he needed.
    â€œI’ll call and let Mom know. What do you think—half hour?”
    â€œI’m standing up right now. If you’ll get off the phone, I’ll be out of here.”
    It was my time to chuckle. “I’m gone.” I hit the disconnect button, then threw back my head and exhaled, a feeling of all is well enveloping me. It felt like I’d been holding my breath forever.
    Easy part over. Now I had to call Mom and get her under control. I only hoped there were no bullet holes in her door yet. There was little doubt in my mind that the slightest noise would launch a round down range. Once my mother says she’ll do something, it will be done.
    When she answered, I said, “Mom. Hang on a bit longer. Things are under control.”
    â€œThank you, Beth. I’m so relieved. I don’t have to call your brother, Harve.”
    Thoughts ripped through my head best not repeated in mixed company. “Yes, Mom. Harve can get a good night’s sleep.” I hesitated, then surged on. “Here’s the deal. Ike Morrison, a Dallas policeman from my past will be outside your house in a few minutes. If your boyfriend doesn’t leave, I’m sure Ike