“Then what are you getting at?”
Leaning back in his seat, Mav looked just as calm as he did when I walked through the door, but I felt like I was about to explode.
“What I’m saying is that kid is gonna be one helluva job, and I want you to be prepared for the fact that no matter what you do for him, he might not come around.”
“He’s still young.”
“He is,” he nodded. “But he also grew up with parents who didn’t give a shit. He’s been running around town on his own since he was five.”
“And why the fuck hasn’t anyone done anything?” I snarled, feeling my rage climbing by the second.
“Years ago, folks did try to help, but the parents didn’t want it. I guess we all just gave up trying,” he shrugged. “I’m surprised they even gave up guardianship. But then, they never truly wanted to be parents. Truth is, I hope they leave this town.”
Sighing, I tilted my head back, resting it on the back of the chair. “What happens to the kid?”
“Depends on what Callahan does.”
“I don’t suppose talking to him would help.”
“From you?” He snorted in amusement. “Not sure he has a civil word for anyone in this town, but especially not anyone in your family.”
I quirked an eyebrow at him, making him sigh.
“Seriously?”
“I would do it for you.”
“Shit,” he sighed, tossing down his pen. “The last thing I need today is to talk to John Callahan. That man’s as mean as a bear.”
“Do whatever you have to do. Hell, tell him he’ll do community service. You can have him pick up garbage on the weekends.”
“Yeah, but he hates your family. Do you really think he’ll do anything to help you out? Or worse, he could have a talk with the kid and poison his mind against you and your family.”
I knew it was a possibility, but I just didn’t think Callahan had it in him. He was a mean cuss, but only because of things that happened to him. I didn’t think he had it in him to intentionally hurt anyone.
“It’ll be fine. Trust me.”
“You’re putting a lot of faith in a man who vowed revenge against your family.”
“I know.”
Shaking his head, he stood up and walked around the desk, snatching his coat off the rack. “Better come with me.”
“To Callahan’s? That’ll make it worse.”
“Won’t do any good if he can’t get a rise out of you. Better make it good.”
I didn’t like the idea of baiting the old man, but I also didn’t want Wesley to end up in juvie either. “Fine, but if this goes wrong, I’m holding you accountable.”
“You can say whatever makes you feel better,” he grinned.
I wasn’t looking forward in the least to having another confrontation with Callahan, but if it could help Wesley, then I would do my part. Even if I wasn’t entirely sure that Wesley deserved another chance. Maybe what he needed was to be sent to juvie, but deep down, I knew I couldn’t let that happen until I’d exhausted all other options.
The bell chimed over the door as we walked in. Callahan immediately scowled when he saw my face. But he ignored me, talking only to Mav.
“Sheriff,” he muttered. “I suppose you’re here to talk me out of pressing charges.”
“Nope,” Mav shook his head. “Sometimes all kids need is a good thump onthe back of the head. You know that soft spot back there is really a reset button.”
