Page 7 of Fearless Encounter
“Do you have kids?”
“One son…David. He’s in his second semester at UNO, studying computer science.”
“University of New Orleans is a good school,” Gabriel said. “Often kids want to go away to college, when they have everything they need right here.”
“At least he’s close enough to visit easily. He’s staying in the dorms at Scott Campus.”
“That can’t be cheap.”
“No, it isn’t,” Brooke said. “Fortunately, his father is paying.”
“He must be doing well.”
“My ex is a personal injury attorney, Everett Clark—you’ve probably seen his ads.”
Gabriel nodded. “That’s him, huh? I don’t know, but I can’t see you with an injury attorney—just saying.”
Brooke shoved her plate aside. “What can I say? He was charming, handsome, and successful. I fell hard.”
“What happened, if you don’t mind my asking?”
“He left me—found a woman who was younger, and more his type, or so he claimed.” Brooke glanced away. “For a while, I felt like such a loser. At the time it really hurt. Everett came home one day and told me it was over. He didn’t love me anymore.”
Gabriel’s eyes filled with compassion. “That’s a tough one.”
“It’s been a while now,” Brooke said. “David was only fifteen at the time. I got my life together after that.” She smiled. “I’m not saying my ego every recovered.”
“It should have. You’re a very desirable woman.”
Brooke was sure she blushed. “I recently turned forty, so I don’t object to flattery.”
Gabriel looked at her for a beat too long, but she couldn’t read his thoughts. She’d focus on the compliment, as it had made her feel good even if he was just being nice.
*****
After Gabriel cleared the dishes and refilled the coffee, Brooke mentioned the incident from the night before. He was just about to broach the subject and was glad she brought it up.
“When the station opens, I should go to the police and make a report,” Brooke said, sounding determined.
“I agree,” Gabriel said. “I’ll set up a meeting with Abe to make sure it’s handled right. I want this kept away from the press, who would just love any sensational story connected to the parade.”
Brooke sighed. “I hope that’s possible. The last thing I want is to be in the news, social media or otherwise.”
“Your job is at an upscale establishment in the French Quarter,” Gabriel said. “Not exactly low profile. Customers likely remember your delicious pastries. Overall, you’re in a more visible position than I prefer.”
“Not much I can do about that,” Brooke said. “Every minute that ticks by, that woman could be worse off. I can’t think solely of my own safety.”
“I admire you for that,” Gabriel said. “And I intend to do all I can to minimize your exposure. Mardi Gras news spreads like wildfire during this season, and word of your story would shine a light on you.”
“It can’t be that bad,” Brooke said. “Maybe I’m exaggerating what I saw, out of fear. I was upset. I could be making more out of this than I should.”
“I understand clinging to the idea that you imagined the danger,” Gabriel said. “But in my experience, danger in this city is very real. The way you described the event leads me to believe you witnessed a woman’s abduction or some type of assault.”
“I wish I wasn’t involved,” Brooke said. “I don’t have time for this. My career is demanding, especially with all the festivities. The restaurant is often packed, and a few big orders came in. I need to get busy.”
Gabriel wished he could hide her away until he knew more, but that wasn’t to be. “We’ll go make the report.”
“I have to do that,” Brooke said. “I don’t want this on my conscience.” She stood. “If a woman is in trouble, I can’t just ignore it.”