The Last Night

Gabe

By the time the senator leaves I have a migraine. His presence has that effect on me. I shut down my computer for the day at five o'clock when a knock on my door has me pausing.

"Mr. Benson?" It's a woman. Young. I cock my head confused at what she's doing here.

"And you are?" I ask leaning back in my chair.

"My name is Eve." She says uneasily.

"What can I do for you, Eve?" I ask. Curiosity getting the better of me.

"I was hoping I could interview you about your relationship with District Attorney Mark Levine."

I feel my eyebrows raise now. That is a name I haven't heard spoken to me in a decade.

"You're writing a piece on Mark?" I ask confused.

"I've been in contact with Mrs. Levine recently. She's ready to come forward about her husband's illness and I thought interviewing people that knew him would be a good angle." She says more comfortable now.

"Marks sick?"

"Stage four renal cancer." She nods checking her notes. A stone settles in my gut. Mark. He was like the father I never had. He hates me now I'm sure but once we were close. I run absently at my chest.

"I haven't seen or spoken to Mr. Levine in a decade." I state glancing away.

"But you grew up with his children, right? Adam and Molly?" Her name makes me blanche. Another stone settling.

"That was a long time ago. You're best looking elsewhere."

"Okay but Mrs. Levine specifically named you."

That surprises me. Why would Lydia do that?

My last encounter with her didn't end well to say the least.

Sighing I nod stoically and meet her gaze.

"Mark was like a father to me. He took me hunting and fishing. Camping. He taught me about life and love and loss. He's a good man. His death will leave behind a gaping hole in this town. Is that all? I have a wedding to prepare for." I clear my throat and stand up.

"Thank you for your time." She stands. When she gets to the door I stop her.

"When will you run this?" I ask

"As soon as I speak to Molly tomorrow. I'll get everything in order to go public with this."

"Mollys here?" I ask evenly.

"Yes. Goodnight." She leaves me reeling with this information. I grip the back of my chair to stop the emotions from knocking me over.

I grab my coat and rush out. I need a damn drink.