The Answer

Chapter 8

Gerard nodded dismissively, studying the man before him. This was Doctor George Wallis? He had expected someone older, perhaps even in a tight spot for cash who'd just been paid off to let someone use his name. But the man who stood before him was nothing of that sort, he wore crisply ironed formals and though he was evidently older it wasn't what he'd imagined.

"We've met a few times, at the hospital?" George suggested, trying to jog Gerard's memory.

Gerard was impressed with how his face hadn't given away his thoughts, he decided to go along with it.

"Ah, yes. I'm sorry, it's been a while. How are you?"

"I'm alright," George beams, "I left the hospital a few years ago and started my own clinic."

"That's great, congratulations." He forced a smile, contemplating whether he wanted to arrest him or punch him. On rationalising, Gerard realised he could do neither- not without just cause.

"Where is your clinic?" Gerard asked, deciding to pry a little.

"Oh, just a few blocks from here. I was on my way home from there when I stopped for some gas."

Gerard nodded, hoping to dig a little deeper when he heard a soft cough from behind the register. The cashier was back, sleepily rubbing his eyes. Gerard quietly billed his things and bid George goodbye.

"Oh, before I leave, do you think I could get your number? I'd love to keep in touch."

George looked surprised at first, but then his smile widened and he handed him a business card. "Drop by whenever you like."

Gerard smiled and left the gas station, casually walking out of sight and then assuming a hiding spot near the cars. He scouted for traffic cameras and other surveillance he could ask for later, checking the time. Soon after, George got into a black Lexus and drove away into the night.

Gerard noted the time stamp and the registration of the car as it drove by. He'd got himself a potential suspect. He walked home triumphantly, too pumped to sleep though he knew there were too many emotions running high in his system to rest anyway. He turned around the corner and stopped dead in his tracks. In front of his house, he saw a police car parked.

He quickened the pace and looked in the car as he got closer, surprised to find it was brand new and looked uninhibited. On closer inspection, Gerard found a small wrapping bow on it and a letter attached to the windshield. He took the letter and looked around, no sign of anyone.

Dear Gerard,

We're happy to have you back. As a token of our appreciation, here's a precinct issue brand new car. See you tomorrow.

-David

Gerard folded up the note and stuffed it in his jacket pocket, eyeing the bow on the car suspiciously. How did anyone know he wanted a car? He reviewed the previous day and came to the conclusion that he hadn't vocalised that thought. Though he had to admit he'd been so excited when Travis and him got their own car. What was strange is that these cars are supposed to be surrendered at the end of the day, which the two of them rarely did because the day didn't really end for them ever.

Still, it's not something you give out unless there's immediate police business to be done. Maybe David was trying to send a message? Gerard quickly put down his shopping bag and jumped in to take a shower. He needed to be fresh for work.

In ten minutes he was ready to go. He stepped out and suddenly realised he didn't have the keys to the car. He looked around his front porch but there was no sign of it. Gerard took out his phone and called David, who answered sleepily "Hello?"