“No. Not really.” My voice trembles, and I’m embarrassed by my show of emotion. I’m a strong woman. Always have been. Even as a child, I was independent and resourceful, and I will be again.
“I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have brought it up.”
“It’s okay. I’m hopeful something will appear.”
“There is an opening coming up.”
“The one you mentioned that involved Carla?”
“We’ll get to that, but this is different. The Icehawks beat reporter just announced his retirement at the end of the season.”
“He’s retiring? But the Icehawks are only a couple years old.”
“Right. But he’s been a sports journalist for decades. The travel is getting to him, and he wants to spend more time with the grandkids. That’d be a good position for you.”
My laugh is hollow. “For me?”
“Yes, you.”
“The Icehawks hate me. Why would they hire me? Those last few articles I wrote aren’t enough for redemption.”
“I have a proposal that might be enough to change their minds.”
“This is the one that has something to do with Carla?”
“Not directly, but yes. You’re a reporter, and I need your help regarding my father’s death. Can you help me investigate?”
“I’m not an investigative reporter.”
“But you’re tenacious and driven. That works. Besides, if you want a job with the Icehawks, this might redeem you in their eyes.”
“But Carla’s handling that investigation for you.”
“She is, but she and Michella are buried with several other more urgent cases. They only took me on as a favor to Jakob. I suggested you could do some of the legwork and research for them. We’ll pay you. Jakob’s dedicated to finding out what happened to my dad as much as I am.”
“Are you sure Carla and Michella are okay with this? Michella doesn’t like me much.”
“I’ve convinced them to give you a chance. If this works out, they’ll keep using you.”
“I don’t know. I may not be able to discover anything.”
“I’m not expecting guaranteed results, but I know you’ll find something if it’s there to be found.”
She has more faith in me than I do in myself. I need that money. My unemployment and the pittance Noah gets from Social Security survivor’s benefits don’t come close to covering all my bills.
“Okay, I’ll do it.” It’s not like I have other offers, and I desperately need the money.
“Good. We’ll visit Gone Missing while the guys are in Colorado for the next game, and they’ll fill you in on everything they have so far.”
“Gardenia, you don’t have to help me, but I really appreciate it.”
“But I want to. Besides, I’m doing it for Noah and myself.” She studies me pointedly. Sometimes I’m not sure we’re friends. Other times I think we are.
“Thank you.” I’m immensely grateful but try not to gush.
Gardenia pats my arm. She’s genuinely a nice person. “Okay, maybe I’m also doing it for you, too.”
“It’s okay if you aren’t. I understand.”
