PALINDROME by Lawrence Kelter Read Free Book Online Page A

Are we talking about one of those plea-bargain things? . . .
because I’m not afraid to face this guy in court,” Allie shook her
head woefully. “I can’t believe he was planning to drug me.”
    “Actually,” Gelfman said, “possession does
not necessarily prove intent, but based on the circumstances and
the specific nature of the illegal substance that the police found
in his home . . .”
    Allie looked into his eyes and waited for him
to continue. She pulled a tissue out of the pack and held it near
her face. “So tell me, what’s going on? My parents are on vacation
in Europe. I haven’t called to tell them anything yet, but I will
need to bring them up-to-date, and if they need to fly home . . .
damn, it’s their twenty-fifth anniversary. I’ll totally ruin their
vacation.”
    Gelfman smiled a sad smile. “You’re
twenty-one and legally an adult, so the decision whether to inform
your parents or not is completely up to you, but speaking as a
parent, if I may, I think you should have all the support you need,
and I’m sure your parents would want to know. It’s a big burden for
you to carry alone. I think the support of your family would help a
great deal at a time like this.”
    Tears now, just a few. Perfect,
Allie, that was just right, just enough. She dabbed at the
corner of her eye. “Thanks, I’ll think about it. Please, give me
the details. I want this to be over as soon as possible.”
    “Bottom line,” Gelfman began, “the
defendant’s attorney will be here in a few minutes. His counsel
insisted on meeting with you to present the offer, and since you
were nice enough to agree—”
    “Is that unusual?”
    “A little. Opposing counsel usually
communicates directly with me, and then I put forth the offer, but
in a case like this, I’m happy to expedite the process as quickly
as I can.”
    The door to Gelfman’s office swung open.
Another attorney, who looked a lot like a stocky Woody Allen leaned
in through the doorway. “Your appointment’s here, Louie. Where do
you want them?”
    Gelfman checked his watch. “He’s very
prompt.” He turned to his colleague. “Can you put them in the small
conference room, please?”
    “Sure thing, Louie.” Woody Allen gave Gelfman
a smile and a thumbs-up before he pulled the door closed behind
him.
    “Is that a good sign?” I asked.
    Gelfman smiled in a most learned manner.
“That’s a very good sign. Are you ready?”
    “I guess.” Gelfman slid the glass of water
closer to me. “Drink. Now remember, I’ll do most of the talking. If
you want to say something, whisper it to me, and I’ll articulate it
for you. If I want you to answer, I’ll say, ‘Allie, you can answer
the question.’ If you need to take a break, we’ll take a break.
Remember, they’re coming to us. They want to squash this thing
fast, but that will be your decision, not theirs. If you’re feeling
pressured, let me know, and I’ll just end it.”
    “Sounds like we’re in charge.”
    “Oh, we are definitely in charge. This guy
could be looking at real jail time. There’s not a court in New York
State that would let this slide and they damn well know it. Shall
we go in?”
    “Okay.” Allie smiled boldly, her broad cheeks
almost pulled her skin tight enough to hide her nervous, quivering
chin.
    I could only see Keith’s attorney from the
back as he was facing away from us when we entered the conference
room. I got a better look at him as we walked around the conference
table to take our seats. I tried not to look too interested, but
Keith’s attorney . . . well, he was pretty. His overall appearance
spoke confidence and his eyes, his eyes burned like the fire of the
sun. They were a rich turquoise color and the juxtaposition of
turquoise against the black of his pupil . . . well, you already
know that I find the eyes intriguing. His eyes may have been the
most unusual I had ever seen. It was difficult for me not to
stare.
    He was on his feet instantly, extending