Counsel (Counsel #1) Read Free Page A

fact."
    "Adam…"
    "Jaclyn, this isn’t going to work."
    "What do you mean?" Suddenly nervous, she scrambles out of bed.
    "I should never have agreed to you moving in," I say, carefully removing her arms from my neck.
    "Perhaps I’ve been too harsh, but would you at least consider what I’ve said? " she offers, her tone conciliatory. "You’re so reluctant to go out into society…"
    "My friends are part of society." I step back as she tries to wrap her arms around my waist.
    "I mean people who influence things, who matter."
    " Everyone matters, don’t you get that? That’s why I do what I do." I will myself to remain calm. "Look, I’m sorry, this is my fault. I should never have allowed this to become something more. I’m going to sleep in the guest room; I suggest you move back in with your sister tomorrow," I tell her before turning away.
    "Don’t do this, Adam. We’re good together."
    "That’s just the thing, Jaclyn, we’re not and never will be, and if you’re honest, you’ll admit I’m not really what you want."
    "You are … and I thought you wanted me? I love you…" she claims, bringing us to the crux of the matter.
    "I’m sorry, Jaclyn, but I don’t," I say, softening my tone. She looks crestfallen, and I’m filled with contrition. It’s my ambivalence that’s brought us to this point.
    "Call your sister in the morning, please," I tell her with gentle determination before leaving and shutting the bedroom door behind me.
    Her sister, Anne, turns up around seven that morning to help move her things out. I offer to help, but Jaclyn rebuffs me with a cold, "no thanks," as they each lug a large suitcase down the stairs. Anne glares at me venomously. I ignore her; she’s an even greater snob than her sister.
    I do the least I can, under the circumstances, and hold the door for them. "Be happy, Jaclyn," I wish her to no response.
    I feel an overwhelming sense of relief at her departure and make a mental note to ask Mom to arrange for the master suite to be redecorated. I want to reclaim every part of my home, especially the bedroom and living areas where Jaclyn spent most of her time.
    .
    .
    Just before seven-thirty, Tess sends me a text telling me to turn on the news. I realize, as I listen to the newscaster, just why she contacted me.
    "VOXP has uncovered details of an investigation into an alleged drug and sex ring operating right under the noses of our authorities. The syndicate, reportedly one of long standing, is said to involve some very prominent Bostonians, including Senator Justin Wade who, it is alleged, is associated with a high-end escort agency implicated in the investigation. Senator Wade, the youngest and, arguably, the most popular member of the Massachusetts Senate, is part of a powerful political dynasty dating back generations. He could, if allegations prove to be correct, find himself responsible for our biggest political scandal of recent times.
    "The police commissioner and the senator’s office have yet to comment on the matter. VOXP will keep abreast of developments and will, as always, be first to bring you the news."
    I’m still grappling with the implications of the news report when Tess calls to say the jury in the Jenkins case is in.
    Samantha Jenkins is found guilty of first-degree murder. She’s yet to be sentenced, but I have little doubt that she’ll end up serving a life sentence.

Chapter Two
    We return from court to find the office abuzz with speculation about the newscast. Every prosecutor hopes the report proves accurate and is, no doubt, chomping at the bit to be appointed to the case. A case of this magnitude is bound to gain national attention and successfully prosecuting it would significantly boost the reputations and careers of those involved.
    I’ve yet to come to terms with the possible involvement of a friend and, given my time in court, haven't really had the time to think about it, let alone consider the possibility of working on the case. Justin