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“I’m not sure what it means other than that the report leaked about his claimed involvement in child sex trafficking might be more than an allegation. The timing, though... it’s puzzling since I got the tip a week prior to the shit hitting the fan where he publicly attacked the Utah County Sheriff's office about using him as a steppingstone in a political race.”
“Puzzling is the wrong word. It just doesn’t make sense, period,” Sydney said. “Why would he bring it to an investigative journal’s attention? Wouldn’t he rather steer clear in an attempt to keep the information from going viral?”
“Except if it wasn’t him. What if someone else used his laptop to send the email? Someone who knows he is guilty but is too scared to speak up?”
“Very possible.” Sydney took a measured breath. “This has just put this entire case into a completely different ballpark, Chicca. I hope you realize that.”
“Yes, it sure does.”
“No, that’s not how you’re supposed to react. You’re supposed to say, yes, Sydney, you’re right. I’m gonna pack it up and head back home.”
“Come now, Sydney. How do you know me?”
“This shit is dangerous, Chicca! You could get killed. If the county attorney is part of the shitshow, you can bet your cute ass that there are other, even more powerful people involved. You need to get the hell out of there.”
“You’re overreacting. Don’t worry, Syd. I promise I’ll be careful.”
“Well, if you’re going to be hardheaded about this, at least approach the sheriff handling the case. Offer your support. Sell him on the roles you’ve played in assisting many investigations to catch the culprits. You’re a politician’s worst nightmare when it comes to criminal injustice. At least if you work with them, it’ll give you some protection and set my mind at ease.”
“I thought Provo’s new sheriff is only arriving next week.”
“True, but he’s not the one who instigated the investigation, or didn’t you watch the news conference that was held in Provo last week?”
“I actually didn’t. I was busy wrapping up that case in Idaho. So, who’s McCarthy’s arch-enemy?”
“It’s the sheriff from Spanish Fork. His name is... wait, lemme check. I’ve got it here somewhere. Ah, yes, Sheriff Carter Scott.”
“Sheriff Carter Scott? Are you serious?” Daphne’s heart skipped a beat. Just the thought that she now had a legitimate reason to stay longer and more so, approach the attractive sheriff, made her libido break out in a spirited Lambada.
“Yes, Chicca. Carter Scott is well known for his drive to rid Utah County of egregious crimes. He made it clear that he takes victimization of children at that level very seriously.” The sound of his fingers tapping on his keyboard sounded in her ear. “I just emailed you the link to the press conference article and podcast.”
“Thanks. Ah, I’ve got it. Carry on.” Daphne scanned the article briefly as Sydney’s voice droned on.
“When Scott was interviewed about McCarthy’s claim that he was using the case to further his own political career, Scott laughed it off. Everyone in the county knows he has no interest in promoting himself for a higher political position since he loves being the county sheriff. McCarthy failed miserably in the attempt to intimidate the sheriff. In fact, Scott made it abundantly clear that he wasn’t backing down. He refused to allow anyone to abuse their authority and public podiums to distract, bully, and equivocate the facts of the investigation. Said that he fully intends to find everyone involved, have them prosecuted, and close the child sex ring down for good.”
“I knew there was a reason why I was so attracted to him,” Daphne said under her breath as she finished reading the interview. A man with morals and integrity was her kryptonite.
“You’ve met him?”
“Damn, why do you have such fine hearing?” she mumbled irritably.
“Comes with the territory, my dear,” he scoffed. “I don’t exactly do legitimate work all the time, so I have to keep my ears close to the ground to stay out of jail. It’s become second nature.”
“Thanks for the heads-up. In the future, I’ll know to be careful when you’re around.”
“So, do tell. What are you and the hot sheriff up to?” Sydney whistled. “Hm-hm-hm, just look at those bulging arms. Oh, my poor heart.” He chuckled. “Well, if he’s not into you, give me a holler. I’ll be there in two ticks to try my luck.”
“I’m afraid we both lucked out. He was all over a pretty blonde this morning at breakfast. I’m afraid he’s taken... more so the pity.”
“You can say that again, Chicca.”
“Keep digging, Sydney. I want to know everything about Bob McCarthy. His itinerary, his movements for as far back as you can track, his spending, his bank accounts. Find me what time he shits during the day. No matter how inconsequential something may seem, check it out. Somewhere, somehow, he must’ve slipped up.”
“On it, Chicca. You just stay out of trouble.”
“Of course, I’m the epitome of being cautious.”
“Gmphf,” he snorted. “You’re the epitome of walking the tightrope, Chicca, and that’s what worries me. Also, stay out of the sheriff’s pants. You can’t afford to get caught in a love triangle. Concentrate on why you’re there.”
