Trouble And Money #10

Peace O' The Sea — Trailer Park, Rye, New Hampshire

One night long ago, when I was a Boot on Parris Island, I had a moment I never forgot. I dig deep for that moment when I need the clarity that the memory provides.

The evening was hot, full of insects and MREs (meals ready to eat), and my company slept in the field. Despite the lack of comfort and the lousy watch shift, I felt happiness and a connection with the universe. Millions of stars, sand fleas, and thousands of my brothers’ ghosts slept in that field and were with me. This brought clarity. I saw each star and heard each croak and buzz, and my senses vibrated in sync with the universe.

It’s hard to explain.

I am seeking clarity today as I dig deep into Taveon and Clarissa’s social media accounts. I did this before, but now I’m scraping deeper.

There has to be a reason Taveon got his ass whooped, and whoever did it mentioned Clarissa, his girlfriend.

Tammy and I had a great time with both of them last night, and after further talks with Clarissa, I have concluded that she has nothing to do with why Taveon ended up on the wrong side of a clown’s boot.

I’m crossing her off.

I will dig deeper into my friend T’s social media to find the answer. This case will solve itself, as easily as that. There won’t be any shootouts. I found all his accounts, even an old Myspace.

I started reading and enjoying breakfast. My mind is open.

Gator is lying near my desk, having puppy dreams. He’s always connected to the universe.

Tammy was a star last night. She’s fun to be with and navigated an investigation without screwing up. She listened more than she spoke, and later, while I was holding her in bed, we talked about the case.

“I believe Clarissa ​knows nothing about why this happened.” It’s also clear that she is crazy for Taveon.”

I squeezed a little and felt her warmth. I kissed her neck and asked her, “What would you do next?”

She said, “There must be a connection between somebody at the company and Clarissa or Taveon.” I’m leaning toward Taveon.” “I think he has a good idea who did this to him.”

I’m thrilled that this woman I met just weeks ago in a bar has clarity and analysis skills.

I agree with her.

Last night, she and I were one with the universe. You know...

Author's Note: I can think of three episodes in my life where everything was clear and understood briefly. I'm still looking for the next moment like that.

Trouble And Money is published Monday through Friday. It is a serial fiction detective story with characters you will love. Read the adventures of Conrad Grange as he solves cases and contends with a harsh world.