“Future wife, eh?”
Fuck. Did I say future wife? Where did that come from?
Dad rubs his hands together like he’s just been served a big, juicy steak. “Which means grandbabies.” My dad’s face is beaming.
Grandbabies?Jesus. I’m twenty-nine years old. I’m not ready for children. Or I wasn’t. The thought gives me pause, however, because babies with Willa doesn’t sound all that terrible.
He squeezes my shoulder so hard, it hurts. The man is still as strong as an ox. “I’m happy for you, Hudson, but you’ve got a problem.”
“Problem?”
“You need to go find your girlfriend and make sure she’ll still have you after today.”
“You’re right.”
“I know. Now go check on her. She was visibly upset after speaking with George.”
The expression on my father’s face tells me I’ve got cause for concern. “That story about her father?”
“Yes?”
“It was tragic.”
“I remember bits and pieces.” Slipping my phone from my jacket pocket, I type in “William Clariday, Chicago.” And it appears. I read aloud.
Commander William Clariday was shot and killed attempting to apprehend a suspect during a carjacking in progress. During the struggle, the suspect fired three rounds into Commander Clariday, two shots into his chest and one in his head.
By the time other officers responded, Commander Clariday was dead and the suspect had fled. The victims were able to escape the scene and were later questioned about the incident.
The suspect attempted a second carjacking three blocks from the scene. Other officers responded. Gunfire was exchanged with the thirty-two-year-old male suspect, critically wounding him. He has been charged with first-degree murder, attempted murder, and attempted armed robbery.
The trial is pending.
Commander Clariday served with the Chicago Police Department for nearly twenty-three years. He was a U.S. Army veteran. His sacrifice and service will never be forgotten. Commander Clariday is survived by his wife and one daughter.
“Shit.” I notice a second link. Clicking on it, I read, “He was posthumously awarded a commendation for valor.”
My father’s voice cracks. “He saved Sonia and her two children, sacrificing himself in the process.”
“He did.” God, My heart hurts for Willa. “I’m heading out.”
“See you tomorrow?”
“Tomorrow?”
“Brunch.” We have a standing brunch at my parents’ house every Sunday. The only reason I bother going is it’s a chance to hang out with my little sister, Brooklyn.
“Sure. See you tomorrow.”
“You going to bring your girlfriend?”
“Funny, Dad.”
“What?” he frowns. “I meant it. Bring her.”
“Let’s see if she’s ever going to speak to me again.”
ChapterEleven
