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We walk over to the locked weapons. I sign one out and then pick up protective ear coverings for both of us.
“This will protect your ears. It gets loud.”
I show her how to put them on.
“These protect your eyes,” I hand her the protective eyewear.
“Now, the first thing you should always do whenever anyone hands you a firearm. No matter who it is. Seriously, you always check the weapon yourself.”
I go through the motions, “You check to see if the gun is loaded and if there’s anything in the chamber. See? Empty.”
We walk into the soundproof shooting range. I have her pick out a target, and then I fasten it and position it at the correct distance.
“Now, let me show you how to hold the gun. It’s a .22, so there won’t be as much kickback as with larger caliber bullets.”
Val just nods and pays close attention.
I stand behind her and wrap my arms around her so she can see how to line up the shot.
“Okay, now slowly squeeze the trigger. Don’t lock your elbows.”
Val jumps a little as she fires, but she still hits the target.
“That was good. See where it hit? Okay, try again.”
I watch as Val reloads the gun. She seems to be having a good time. She’s stopped biting her lip.
“Look how well your aim is now, after only half an hour of practicing.”
“I have gotten better.”
“Yep, they say women are statistically more accurate than men when shooting.”
“Wow. I didn’t think I’d ever enjoy doing something like this.”
“I thought you might enjoy it. Want to grab some lunch now?”
“Yes, I’m ready for lunch. You know, I’m now riding a motorcycle and learning how to handle and shoot a gun. What’s next?”
Sixteen
Val
As I leave for work the next day, I get to my car and realize I forgot the notes I wanted to look over at home. I want to work from home tomorrow, so I need to get my notepad.
I take the elevator back to my office, and most of the team has already gone home. When I finally locate my notes and stuff what I need into my bag, I stand up. I turn to walk into the main room of our department. I’m surprised to see my cousin Cristina talking to Dave. There’s something about the way she’s leaning in and looking into his eyes that is almost like she’s interested in him.
Cristina casually places her hand on Dave’s arm while she talks. I see him look down at her hand with an almost stupid look on his face. Cristina then smiles at him, slowly turns, and leaves the department.
Could Dave be unwittingly giving Cristina information about our progress? I lean back against the wall as the truth hits me. Of course, he is!
Dammit! How could Dave let Cristina manipulate him like that? First, Tony, and now Dave?
I don’t leave my office until the coast is clear. I have to call Ellen.
“You are freaking kidding me! Of all the nerve. How could a man that smart be so stupid as to fall for her bullshit?”
“Beats me. We need to figure out a way to use this to our advantage.”
