Chapter One

It was a warm, sunny Sunday afternoon. Johnnie was lying on the floor in front of the wide screen television, while her son was sitting on her back as they watched a DVD of the Teletubbies.

"Teletubbies say hello, uh oh." A very happy three-year-old Phillip sang. "Look mama, Dipsy." He gleefully yelled.

Johnnie looked over her shoulder in admiration of her strong, healthy son. She looked at his curly black hair, mocha skin and big brown eyes that were always full of wonder. She turned her attention back to the television. "Oh no, they're gonna try to make him wear that tutu." She said.

"Ewww, Mama. Dat sucks." He said, scrunching his little face in disgust.

Johnnie quickly looked back at him. "Shh, Champ. You better not let Mami hear you say that. She'll kill me." She said, placing a finger over his lips. Alma got on her continuously for her loose tongue around their son.

They laughed as Dipsy ran around trying to get away from the others. Both became silent as they heard Alma call from another part of the house.

"I'm gonna go and help Mami, Champ. You gonna be ok in here?" Johnnie asked as she lifted the boy off of her.

"Big boy, Mama. I no scared." He told her.

"Ok, Champ. Don't leave this spot." She said, pointing to the floor.

Phillip smiled. "Kay, Mama."

Johnnie walked into the bathroom and saw Alma still lounging in the tub. Alma's breasts were just above the bubbles and Johnnie looked at them hungrily.

"I know what you're thinking, Querida." Alma said. "Put it on the back burner, baby.

Johnnie smirked. "You know me so well."

"Yes, I do." Alma smiled. "Could you scrub my back for me? I can't reach it." She shyly asked.

"Sure baby, anything you want." Johnnie said, leering at her wife.

"Breathe, honey, breathe." Johnnie said as she wiped the sweat from Alma's brow.

"Fuck breathing." Alma growled. "I want someone to get this baby out of me."

Alma's labor had been hard. The hospital gown she wore was drenched with sweat. Her mother had been with her and Johnnie in the early stages, but had to leave because she couldn't bear to see her child in pain. They had been in labor and delivery for almost twenty-four hours before she had dilated enough to give birth.

"This is all your fault. I wouldn't be in this mess if it weren't for you." Alma hissed. "You and your genes. That's why I am carrying Bigfoot instead of a baby."

Johnnie had found out earlier not to argue but agree with whatever Alma said. "Yeah, baby. It's all my fault." She said, and then laughed to herself. 'I didn't do it, though.'

Alma grabbed Johnnie by her collar and pulled her to within inches of her face. "After this is over, if you so much as look at me, I will shoot you. Do you hear me?"

"Yes dear." Johnnie quietly responded.

Another contraction hit Alma, and Johnnie's hand carried the brunt of the force of Alma's death grip. Her hand was already tender, and Johnnie felt that it would be broken before the baby was born.

When the contraction was over, it was like the old Alma had returned. "Te amo, mi amor."

Just as soon as another contraction hit, she became Linda Blair from 'The Exorcist', releasing a slew of expletives that would make a sailor blush. All Johnnie could do was take it.

The nurse softly chuckled and shook her head. She had felt sorry for the tall and stoic detective. When Alma first started berating Johnnie, the nurse pulled Johnnie off to the side and explained that all women in labor speak harshly to their partners. Johnnie then began to relax and take all that Alma was dishing out in stride.

"One, two, three, push." The doctor instructed. Johnnie sat behind Alma, lifting her to aid in her pushing. "Good girl, Alma. A couple more and we'll be done."

Johnnie's brown eyes widened in anticipation. A son, their son, would soon be here. She took a cool rag and dabbed the sweat from Alma's face neck and chest. "You're doing fine, baby. Just a little longer."

Alma was spent and her voice was hoarse. "I'm so tired, Querida. So tired."

Johnnie kissed Alma's forehead. "I know, baby."

"One more big push should do it, Alma." The doctor said. "Alright, let's go."

Johnnie lifted Alma forward and she pushed, groaning and straining with everything she had. Johnnie whispered words of encouragement in Alma's ear. Alma held Johnnie's hand and squeezed, hoping to draw strength from her.

Before the baby was completely free of his mother, he began to wail. "Do you hear that, Alma?" Johnnie excitedly asked. "That's our baby boy."

Holding up the baby who was covered in blood and gunk, the doctor announced, "Ladies, it gives me great pleasure to introduce you to..." The doctor looked at them expectantly.

An exhausted Alma whispered, "Charles Phillip Green Martinez."

"Honey, are you listening to me?" Alma asked.

Johnnie, returning from her revelry, shook her head. "I'm sorry baby. I was thinking about something else. What were you saying?"

"I asked if you had tenderized the steaks yet. Pizo and Diana will be here soon." She said. Alma began to giggle when Johnnie began perusing Alma's neck with her tongue. "If you don't stop it, I'll never get out of this tub."

"You never should have asked me in here." Johnnie responded. "You know how I get when you're naked and wet." She added, her hands dipping down to cup Alma's ample breasts.

Alma's nether regions sparked like a gas furnace. She leaned her head back in order to give Johnnie access to her lips. Johnnie ran her tongue across them, tracing their outline. After one flick across Alma's lips, her tongue was greeted by Alma's. Johnnie's hand traveled down Alma's belly, reaching dark curls. Alma moaned into Johnnie's mouth when fingers fondled her swollen clit.

"Mama, come back." Phillip yelled. "You missin' it."

Johnnie reluctantly pulled her mouth from Alma's and her hand from between Alma's legs. Luckily she was wearing a tank top, so there were no wet sleeves to deal with. "Okay Champ." Johnnie answered, her voice trembling. "I'll be right there." She looked to her wife, giving her a chaste kiss. "Duty calls." She said, sighing as she stood up to get a towel.

"Like you aren't happy to go watch television with your son." Alma said, smirking. "What are you guys watching? Teletubbies or something on Cartoon Network?"

Johnnie turned to her as she wiped her arms dry. "I have to watch what Champ wants to watch."

Alma laughed. "Querida, you were watching that stuff way before Phil was even born. Let's not go there, ok?"

"That was for research purposes only." Johnnie adamantly said. "I just wanted to know what kids were into now."

"Yeah, sure, right." Alma teasingly responded. "So which one is your favorite? That Tinky Winky one?"

"No, Dipsy is my...I mean Champ's favorite." Johnnie sputtered.

Alma cast her a knowing look. "Yeah, Phil's favorite."

Johnnie playfully growled. "Oh, you." Then she threw the towel at Alma and walked out. Alma's laughter followed her down the hall.

Johnnie had retired from the police force immediately after Phillip's birth. She obtained a private investigator's license, and started her own firm. At first it was just her and her high school friend Laura Rogers. In three years it had grown into one of the most successful firms in the southeast.

She still remained close with her former partner, Pizo. She still trusted him with her life, and the life of her son. She and Alma asked him to be Phillip's godfather, and in the event that anything happened to them he would look out for Phillip's interests. He proudly accepted his role.

Alma had just put Phillip down for his nap. She walked into the bedroom in time to see Johnnie pulling up her Teletubbies boxers. Alma stood silently at the door as she watched Johnnie pull them up over her firm muscular buttocks, trying to withhold the snicker that was about to escape because of Johnnie's choice of underwear. She looks as good if not better than the day we met. She silently mused. She leered at Johnnie's muscular back and strong shoulders, and could feel moisture form between her thighs.

"Are you just gonna stand there peeking at me, or are you gonna come over here and give me some sugar?" Johnnie asked as she adjusted her breasts in her sports bra.

Alma was caught off guard. She didn't know that Johnnie was aware of her presence. "I... Um... How did you know that I was here?"

Johnnie chuckled. "I was a cop for a long time, baby. Tools of the trade." She turned to face her wife. "C'mere love." She said softly, with open arms.

Alma slowly and seductively walked over to Johnnie. She sighed softly when she felt Johnnie's long, well-developed arms encompass her. She felt safe when Johnnie held her. It had taken her a while to get over what Javier had done. Alma felt responsible for the women he murdered. The entire family was at a loss. No one saw how sick Javier was. Then after he killed himself, she became despondent. She and Javier were extremely close growing up. She blamed herself for not seeing that he was mentally ill. It was Johnnie and the love of her family that brought her through it.

Johnnie snuggled into Alma's hair. She loved the way it always smelled of coconut. She tightened her grip when she felt Alma brush her cheek against a hardening nipple. "I love you, Alma." She whispered.

"I love you too, Johnnie. With all my heart." She responded. She pulled her head back, and her mouth met warm lips and tongue.

Their kiss deepened, as tongues battled for control. Johnnie's large hands wandered to Alma's buttocks. She cupped them and pulled her closer. Alma's hands roamed Johnnie's shoulders and back. She loved the feel of them as they shifted with Johnnie's every movement.

At the very moment Johnnie was about to slide her hand between Alma's thighs, the doorbell rang. Their mouths separated, and Johnnie quietly cursed. "Damn it, Pizo has the lousiest timing."

Alma laughed, and placed a soft kiss on Johnnie's chin. "That is your friend." She yelped when Johnnie slapped her on her behind.

Johnnie released Alma so she could answer the door.

Alma greeted both Pizo and Diana as they came inside. Pizo noticed Alma's face was a little flushed. He was beginning to think that Alma may be getting sick, until he noticed the glare he received from Johnnie as she walked into the living room. He chuckled to himself.

"Guess my timing is as impeccable as usual." He said with a Cheshire grin on his face.

"That is so not funny, asshole." Johnnie playfully growled. "You do this every time."

"Well if you could keep that raging libido in check, there would be nothing for me to interrupt." He responded as he laughed at her. "Lucky for Alma you aren't a man. You guys would have five or six kids by now."

"Fuck you, Pizo." Johnnie said. She flipped her middle finger out, placed it under her eye and gently pulled at the skin there. "Look into my eye, asshole."

"Cut it out, you two." Diana told them. She rubbed her slightly protruding belly. "The baby is getting hungry."

"Come with me." Alma said, pulling Diana toward the kitchen. "I have some snacks for you and the little one."

Alma turned around to see Johnnie and Pizo shoving each other like little kids. "Stop it." She admonished them both. "Get that grill started and the meat on it, now. Diana and the baby are hungry, and Phil will be ready to eat when he wakes up." She looked over at Johnnie. "If you two brats don't play nice, you will be sleeping in Phil's room tonight, Querida."

Johnnie, looking like a properly chastised child, swallowed audibly. "Yes, dear."

"Pussy whipped." Pizo muttered, and laughed out loud at his choice of words.

Diana's voice came from the kitchen. "The same goes for you, bucko."

Horror flashed quickly on Pizo's face. He knew that Diana always meant what she said. "Okay, baby, whatever you say."

Johnnie smirked. "Wimp."

They both fell into a fit of laughter as they walked through the kitchen toward the backyard.

"So, pal o mine, how goes it with that partner of yours?" Johnnie asked as she sipped her beer.

Pizo shrugged. "He's ok, a damn fine cop. I just don't think we have anything in common outside of the job."

Johnnie nodded her head in agreement. "I know he hates my ass." She flatly told him. "There's something about him that gives me the creeps."

"Aww J, he doesn't hate you." Pizo said. "He just hates being in your shadow."

Johnnie chuckled. "In my shadow? What in the hell does that mean?"

"It means, Detective, that he knows he'll never be the cop that you were, and he won't be that partner to me that you were." Pizo revealed. "He is trying to live up to your rep."

"The boy has taste." Johnnie quipped.

"Yeah, well, don't know how long that will last." Pizo almost inaudibly said.

"What does that mean, Pizo?" Johnnie asked.

Pizo shifted nervously in his seat as he silently cursed his partner's excellent hearing. "Oh nothing, J. Forget I said anything."

Johnnie stood up, towering over Pizo. "If there is a problem buddy, you know I got your back."

"The problem is not mine, J." He paused, looking up at her. "But it could mean trouble for you."

Johnnie was confused. "What in the hell are you talking about?"

Pizo nervously took a gulp of beer. "There's talk of an investigation, J." He paused. "You know how it is in the squad room. That place is a rumor mill."

"An investigation of whom?" Johnnie carefully asked.

"You." Pizo said.

"Me?" Johnnie incredulously asked. "What the fuck for?"

"The money, J. Your money." He said. "They are wondering where you got all your money. They know that because you retired early you didn't get your full pension."

"Well that is none of their goddamned business." She growled.

Johnnie was worth a little over two million dollars now from the land and other holdings that were left to her by her father and her successful business. She didn't reveal that fact to anyone but Pizo and Alma. Her lifestyle was kept in the confines of her own salary. She allowed all the monies that she received from her private holdings to roll over, never taking any money from them. When she started her investigation firm, she only took start up money. Once it became successful, she returned the money that she had used.

"I know that, J. It's the powers that be that are stirring up trouble." Pizo calmly said, placing his hand on her shoulder.

"What have I done that is so different, Pizo?" She asked. "I live in the same house. Is it the fact that I bought myself a Navigator and a Lexus for Alma? I can't buy anything new for my wife or me?" Johnnie became angrier by the minute. "Where in the hell is this coming from? She angrily demanded.

"City Hall, the mayor's office." He told her.

"Ballantine? I should have known. That scum sucking son of a bitch." She shouted as she hurled her beer bottle across the lawn. It shattered against the fence.

"He's been after you for years. Now that you are off the force and successful, he's insinuating that you were on the take." He said.

"Mother fucking piece of shit." She roared as she lifted one of Alma's flowerpots.

"Whoa!" Pizo shouted, grabbing Johnnie's arm. He knew that she was pissed and was gonna throw things. "Slow your roll, Johnnie. Someone is coming."

Suddenly the patio door slid open and a three-year-old ball of energy flew out into the back yard.

"Pido!" Phillip exclaimed as he ran toward his godfather.

Pizo squatted in order to catch the boy, but was knocked over by him.

"Philly Phil!" A bowled over Pizo yelled. "How's my boy?"

"I fine, Pido." He said. "When you baby gonna come?"

Pizo sat up, settling the boy on his lap. "We have almost four more months to go, kiddo. Then you will have a baby god brother or god sister to play with."

"Yay!" Phillip yelled. "We can watch Teletubbies."

Pizo ruffled Phillip's hair. "You sure can, buddy."

"Mama, can Pido's baby watch Teletubbies with us?" He asked expectantly.

Hearing her son's voice helped Johnnie regain control of her temper. "Sure, Champ. Anything you want." She paused. "Go tell Mami to bring out the steaks and hamburgers."

"Kay, Mama." He said as he got off Pizo's lap.

Once Phillip was inside, Johnnie turned to Pizo. "We will finish this after dinner."

Pizo nodded his head in agreement.

"This is delicious, baby." Alma said to Johnnie as she ate her steak.

"You outdid yourself, Johnnie." Diana added as she happily ate.

Johnnie, still thinking about what Pizo had told her, did not hear the compliments.

Alma looked at Johnnie, and saw that something was bothering her. Not knowing if she should bring it up in front of their friends, she reached over and placed her hand over Johnnie's. Johnnie looked up and gave her a weak smile. Alma returned the smile and then looked to Pizo, questioning him with her eyes. He shrugged slightly and returned to his meal. Diana was oblivious to what was going on as she devoured her food.

"Juice, Mama." Phillip requested, holding up his cup.

Johnnie took his cup, filled it with juice and gave it back to him. "Hey, I'm going downstairs for a bit." She announced.

Pizo wiped his mouth and placed his napkin on the table. "I'll come with you."

Johnnie walked over to the bar and fixed a drink. "You want one, Pizo?" She asked. He declined. She sat at the bar and motioned for him to come over. "Now tell me exactly what is going on."

"It an election year, J. Ballantine is down in the polls. His performance as mayor this term has been less than spectacular. So, he's working a new angle about fighting corruption in city government. He has targeted a couple of people, but he is beginning to focus his attacks on you." Pizo revealed.

"He has been after me since he found out that I was a lesbian and could find nothing." Johnnie said. "Why is he fucking with me now?"

"You are a successful businesswoman. Hell, you've only been in this business for three years and have made it into the most prominent investigation firm in the southeast." He said. "You, my friend, are his white whale. He's coming after you Johnnie with everything he has."

"What is the little weasel up to?" Johnnie inquired.

"He's planting seeds of doubt on the force. I hate to tell you, but it's spreading like wildfire." He said softly. "He may soon have internal affairs go back over your record."

Johnnie could feel the anger rising in her. All she had done for the city and the force. Nearly losing her life in the line of duty, and now she's being fed to the wolves.

"This is going to ruin my credibility to my clients." Johnnie hissed.

"J, he has nothing. He's on a wild goose chase. You are clean." Pizo told her.

"I know that, but my clients don't. That asshole could ruin me." Johnnie angrily spat.

Before Pizo could respond, Alma was coming down the stairs.

"Excuse me, but Diana said that she was ready to go home." Alma softly said.

"Ok, Alma. Tell her I'll be up in a minute." Pizo acknowledged.

"Um, Johnnie?" Alma hesitantly asked. "Is everything ok?"

Johnnie offered a reassuring smile. "Yeah baby, I'm fine."

Alma gave her a doubtful look, but accepted what she said. She nodded and went back upstairs.

Pizo stood up. "Johnnie, I'm gonna keep my ears open, and if anything else happens, I'll let you know."

Johnnie stood and patted his shoulder. "Thanks, Pizo." She gave him a halfhearted smile. "C'mon, before your wife looses her temper. I wouldn't want you sleeping in your car tonight."

"I'm touched." He said sarcastically.

After tucking Phillip into bed, Johnnie entered their bedroom. She saw Alma sitting at their dresser, brushing her hair. Alma noticed Johnnie as she came in.

Alma turned to face her. "Querida, I want to know what was going on with you at dinner."

Johnnie sighed heavily and sat on the bed. "Old business, Alma. I really don't want to talk about it."

Alma carefully chose her battles. If not now, then soon my love. I know something is troubling you, and you will tell me. "Alright, my love." She walked over to Johnnie, wearing nothing but her sleep shirt. She straddled Johnnie's thighs and kissed her neck. She's been drinking. It must be a biggie. She silently mused. Alma could tell by Johnnie's breathing that she was becoming aroused. That's it, Querida. Let me take your mind off of your troubles.

"Mmm, baby. You really smell good." Johnnie told her as she ran her face against her neck, taking in her fragrance.

Alma arched herself against Johnnie, causing the fabric of her shirt to brush against her painfully erect nipples. She hissed as Johnnie removed the offending garment, and then took a nipple into her mouth. She pulled Johnnie's head closer to her bosom as she rocked against her body. Alma knew that Johnnie was in need, and she gave herself willingly. The emotional state Johnnie was in let Alma know that she would be in for a long night.

After hours of intense lovemaking, Alma had finally calmed Johnnie enough so she would sleep.

Chapter Two

"Good morning, Laura. Any calls?" Johnnie asked as she entered her suite of offices.

"Good morning, Johnnie." Laura answered. She looked at her friend and could tell that something was bothering her. "Um, are you ok?"

Johnnie was distracted as she looked over her mail. "Yeah, I'm fine. Didn't sleep much last night." She replied. "Any calls?"

"Yeah, sure." Laura said as she handed her a stack of phone messages. She has known her friend since high school and could tell that Johnnie was keeping something from her. As Johnnie looked over her messages, Laura took a bottle of Tylenol from her drawer and then turned to the small fridge behind her and pulled out a bottle of water.

Johnnie began to pinch the bridge of her nose. She felt a headache coming and it was going to be a big one. "Laura, do you have..."

Before she could finish her question, Laura handed her the bottle of Tylenol and water. "Here ya go, Johnnie."

Johnnie smiled. "You know me so well."

Laura snickered. "That's why you pay me the big bucks."

"Remind me to give you a raise." Johnnie said as she took the pills.

"Oh, I will do just that." Laura replied.

Johnnie's services had been retained by some of the most prestigious law firms and private citizens in the southeast. She had to hire three more investigators to help her. Michael Caruthers, Glenda Washington, and Tracy Kenon were all very well experienced in criminal justice and investigations. With all their contacts, they were able to handle any need that was placed before them.

"Guess I'll return some of these calls." She said, giving Laura a weak smile.

"Alright, Johnnie." Laura said as she watched her friend enter her office.

Johnnie made phone calls to the various law firms, informing them of their cases. Between phone calls, her mind drifted to the matter at hand. She was under investigation by the mayor's office. Johnnie was still in disbelief as to how they could put her record under scrutiny for alleged wrongdoing. I dedicated almost half of my life to those sorry ingrates. How could they even give credibility to that asshole Ballantine's accusation? She thought.

Laura pulled her from her musing via the intercom. "Johnnie, you have a call on line two. It's Victoria Krisp."

Victoria became Johnnie and Alma's financial consultant after Alma had returned from a business trip. She met Victoria and her wife Cecilia, when she was sent by her company to help get a project's books in order.

"Thanks, Laura." She said, and then answered the line. "Hey, Tori. What's up? It's not time for our annual visit is it?" She distractedly asked.

"Hi, Johnnie." Tori said. She paused for a second. "I was wondering if you could come up here. Today if that's possible."

"Can't we do this over the phone, Tori? Just tell me how much money I've lost." Johnnie stated flatly.

Tori took on a more stern tone. "Johnnie, this is serious. I don't want to get into this over the phone."

Johnnie conceded. "Alright, Tori, you win. I'll be there in a couple of hours."

Johnnie picked up her jacket and briefcase, and walked out of the office. "Laura, please clear my schedule. I have to go to Virginia."

"Would you like for me to call Alma?" Laura asked.

"No, I'll take care of it. Let the others know that I will be back tomorrow." She said.

"Mama!" Phillip eagerly yelled. "You come play with me? I building a house."

Johnnie leaned over to kiss her son on his head. "Sorry Champ, no can do. Mama has to go out of town for a bit."

"Out of town? Where and for how long?" Alma asked as she entered the living room. Alma now contracted accounts from their home. She and Johnnie made the decision that she could just do important accounts for Wilmington Steel and then make her own contracts for other accounts. She wanted to be home with Phillip at least until he was old enough to attend school.

Johnnie straightened herself, walked over to Alma and kissed the top of her head. "I got a call from Tori and she wants me to come up there."

"Why? Is there something wrong?" Alma inquired. "Do we have a problem financially?"

"No, nothing like that." Johnnie answered. "I don't know exactly what it is, but she was adamant about me getting up there." She took Alma's hand and led her to their bedroom. She noticed that Alma was walking gingerly. Guilt washed over her immediately. "Baby, I'm sorry about last night. I didn't mean to push you past your limit."

"Shh, baby. It's ok. I know you were upset and needy last night." Alma stated in a soothing voice. She cupped Johnnie's face. "It wasn't like it wasn't pleasurable." She gave her a wink.

It eased Johnnie's conscience. Alma had begged her to stop; that she couldn't take anymore. Johnnie was hot for her and couldn't control herself.

"Ok baby." Johnnie smiled. "I'm gonna change and then head out." She looked at her watch. "It's almost ten. I should be back by six."

"Alright." Alma said. "I'm almost done with breakfast. I'll have it and some coffee waiting for you."

Johnnie kissed Alma's nose. "That'll work."

After Johnnie changed into a pair of faded Levi's and t-shirt, she grabbed a quick bite with the family and then left for Virginia. She was pushing ninety-mph until she reached the Virginia border. Once there, she had to turn off her radar detector. "This is so stupid." She grumbled about the Virginia law. "Well, at least it's only forty-five more minutes left on this fucking road trip."

When she arrived at Tori's office, Sheila, the receptionist, asked her to wait. Johnnie could tell that she was being checked out. It made her a little uncomfortable, the scrutiny that she was under. She looked at Sheila and cordially smiled. A lustful gaze was returned. Johnnie leaned forward; resting elbows on her knees, and made a show of twirling her wedding band between her fingers. Sheila caught the hint, and knew that Johnnie was not available.

The door to Tori's office opened and Cecilia walked out followed by Tori. Johnnie looked up and saw Cecilia's brilliant smile.

"Johnnie!" She exclaimed as she was scooped up into large arms. "How are you?"

"I'm fine, Ceecee." Johnnie said, as she twirled the little woman around. "How have you been?"

"Just great." She said as Johnnie put her down. Ceecee was about 5'2" tall. Her long black hair was pulled up into a French Roll, accentuating her slender neck. Her teeth were pearly white and straight, and her dark skin was smooth as silk. "How are Alma and the baby?"

Johnnie laughed. Alma is just fine, but you can hardly call Phillip a baby." With pride in her eyes she added, "Champ is growing like a weed and getting into everything."

"Well, be sure to give both of them a big kiss for me." She said, and then turned back to Tori. "Don't forget about the track meet this afternoon. It's All-State finals. The boys will be expecting you."

Tori leaned in for a kiss. "I'll be there with bells on." She proudly said. "I'll be on my best behavior and try not to embarrass them."

"Good." Ceecee said flatly. "They are just now getting over what you did at the regionals.

"Give me a break. I wasn't that bad, was I?" Tori asked.

"Oh, please. We won't go there." Ceecee laughed. "I have to go. Johnnie, take care and give the family my love."

"Will do." Johnnie said as she kissed Ceecee's cheek.

"Now I can say hello." Tori said as she extended her hand. "How are you, Johnnie?"

"I'm doing ok, and you? Johnnie asked as she accepted the greeting.

"Sheila, please hold all my calls." She said to the receptionist as she and Johnnie went into her office.

"Ceecee looks well." Johnnie said sitting across from Tori's desk. "How has she adjusted?"

"It was rough going at first." Tori sadly said as she leaned back in her chair. "Since September 11th, she has been treated badly. She was forced out of a job she loved by ignorant assholes."

Ceecee's complexion made her look as if she were of Arab descent. It seemed that everyone had forgotten that the area that she came from had people of that skin tone. They were not Middle Eastern, but African American.

"Ignorance is everywhere, Tori. Just don't let her get down about it." Johnnie advised. She studied her friend, and could see the anger chiseled on her face; how her skin turned darker the angrier she got. She and Johnnie hit it off perfectly, both being what they called mutts. Tori was of African American and Italian descent. Sensing Tori's frustration, she leaned over and whispered, "That goes for you, too."

Tori ran her fingers through her black, wavy locks. "I hear you." She settled in her chair. "You didn't drive all this way to hear of our problems."

"Tell me, what is so important that I had to make this trip?" Johnnie asked.

Tori looked pensive for a moment as she twirled her pencil in her hand. "I don't know why, Johnnie, but someone has taken great interest in your finances. Everything has been gone through with a fine toothed comb."

Johnnie could not believe her ears. Her privacy and the privacy of her family had been invaded. "You have got to be shitting me!" She exclaimed; her voice lowered an octave.

"Everything Johnnie, even Phillip's trust account. Nothing was left unturned." Tori told her.

Johnnie bolted from her chair, and immediately pushed her hands in her pockets to keep from smashing Tori's possessions. "Fucking Ballantine and his cronies." She paused. "That son of a bitch wants a fight. Well, goddamn it, he'll get one."

"What are you talking about? Do you know what's going on?" Tori asked.

"The asshole mayor is gunning for me." She revealed. "He has been after me for a long time, and now he thinks he has me."

Tori stood and walked over to Johnnie. "What in the hell are you talking about?"

"Ballantine is accusing me of being a dirty cop. He's trying to find out where I got all my money. Thinking that I was on the take." She said. "Now is his chance to ruin me."

"I take it your net worth is not common knowledge." Tori said.

"Nope. No one but Pizo and Alma knew I had money." Johnnie impassively said.

"Oh I get it. Now that you are successful, he's trying to make it look like you got mafia money." Tori realized.

"Bingo." She responded. "I was a good cop, Tori. I went by the book."

Tori grasped Johnnie shoulder. "I know you were, buddy." She paused. "What's this guy's name again?" She asked as she moved over to her desk.

"Alexander Ballantine. Why?" Johnnie gave her a puzzled look.

"I have some cousins in New York. Maybe they know something." Tori distractedly said.

"New York? How would they know anything?" Johnnie asked.

Tori gave her a predatory grin. "You'd be surprised at what people know, no matter where they are." She paused. "Are you going back home now?"

Johnnie sighed heavily. "Yeah, I need to get home. I need my family."

Tori could see the frustration and sadness wash across Johnnie's strong features. "I'll call you if anything turns up. You keep your head up."

"Yeah, thanks, Tori." She dejectedly said.

After seeing Johnnie out, Tori quickly returned to her office and made a phone call.

"Hello, Bobby? This is Tori. I need a favor, cousin." Tori said.

"Hey Tori, what's up?" Bobby asked.

"I have a friend in need. She's having a little trouble with a public official." She said. "I want you to see what you can dig up on and Alexander Ballantine. He's the mayor of Wilmington."

"Delaware?" He asked.

"No, cuz, North Carolina. You think you can handle that?" She inquired.

He wrote the name down. "I'm on it, Tori. Gimme a couple of days."

"Thanks, Bobby." She said.

Mayor Ballantine, a hard line opponent to gay and lesbian rights, was talking to Police Commissioner Daniel Whitley.

"Is there anything on Green yet?" Ballantine demanded.

"There is nothing on Green. I have already told you she is as clean as they come." Whitley said.

"Where in the hell did she get that money from?" He barked. "Cop's pensions aren't a lot of money, and she didn't even receive full pension. That filthy dyke was on the take and you assholes let her get away with it."

Whitley was getting pissed off and Ballantine's accusations. "Now look, Alex..."

"No, you look." Ballantine interrupted. "That bitch has money that she hasn't given an account for. She was on the take and you know it."

"She was a good cop. She nearly died in the line of duty, Alex. No one is going to believe what you are saying." Whitley countered.

"She's a pervert. A filthy, disgusting homosexual. She would take dirty money. As for nearly dying, she was shot by someone who went nuts because of all the dirty lesbians." He spat.

"The murderer was crazy. It was as simple as that." Whitley said, disgusted by the conversation. "If there is nothing else, I'm leaving. I have a job to do." He stood and walked toward the door.

"Your job, Whitley, is to find out what that dyke was up to." He snidely remarked. "If you can't do it, then perhaps I can find someone else who can."

He turned and glared at him. "Is that a threat, Ballantine?"

Pulling on the facade of calmness, he responded. "No, certainly not. Just making an observation."

Knowing that Johnnie was as clean as they come, Whitley made a decision. "I'll get Internal Affairs to go over her record." You will hang yourself on this Ballantine, you arrogant asshole.

"Good job, Commissioner. I knew that I could count on you." Ballantine condescendingly said.

The closer Johnnie got to Wilmington, the angrier she became. Instead of going home she drove to the police station. As she walked through, she was greeted by some, and shunned by others. She made her way to Captain Hill's office. She chose not to knock, but stormed right in.

"Would you tell me what the fuck is going on around here?" She demanded. "Why am I being investigated? I didn't do anything wrong."

Hill sat at his desk, stunned at the intrusion. "Calm down, Green. I know you didn't. I don't understand it either." He paused. "I just got a call that the IAD has been called in on this."

Pizo was enjoying a snack that Diana had prepared for him, when Smitty ran up.

"Petrillo, you better get your ass up to the squad room." He said nearly out of breath. "Green is up there going the fuck off on the captain."

"Oh shit." He said as he threw down his sandwich and ran upstairs.

"This is bullshit, Captain. They know that I'm clean. That fucking Ballantine is behind this. Somebody had better get that bastard off my back before I fuck his shit up." Johnnie ranted.

Hill stood up. "Get a handle on that temper, Green." He knew what Johnnie was capable of doing when she lost control. "Don't go off and do something stupid. Do you hear me, Green?"

Pizo ran in. "What's going on in here? Is everything ok?

"Everything is just fine, Pizo." Johnnie said through clenched teeth. She walked out of the office, and into the squad room. "If there is anybody who wants to know if I was dirty, ask me. I'm right here." She yelled. "Anybody want to know how much money I have or where I got it? Just ask me." She paused, waiting for a response. "No one? It makes for good conversation when I'm not around. Instead of wondering and whispering, get it from the horse's mouth."

The officers looked at her, no one saying a word. Pizo's partner, Drew Best, looked at her in total disbelief.

"Fucking cowards." Johnnie spat as she stormed out.

"J, wait." Pizo called after her.

"Let her go, Petrillo." Best said. "She's not worth it."

Pizo walked over to him and leaned down until their faces were inches apart. "Watch that mouth, Best." He warned. "You are no Johnetta Green, and never will be as good a cop as she was."

"I hope that I don't wind up like she is." Best spat. He, like Ballantine and a lot of people, was disgusted by homosexuals.

"That's enough." Hill ordered. "Petrillo, get her wife on the phone and see if she can talk some sense into her."

Alma was preparing some plantains when the phone rang. "Hello."

"Alma, this is Pizo." He said.

"Hi, Pizo. Is everything alright?" She asked, thinking that it was a problem with Diana and the baby.

"We have a problem. Johnnie is on the warpath. You need to call her and convince her to come home." Pizo said.

"Johnnie is in Virginia." She assumed.

"Not anymore. She just left from here and she is pissed off." He said.

"Okay, I'll handle it." She told him. She hung up and without delay dialed Johnnie's cell phone.

"What?" Johnnie snarled.

"Querida, it's me. Where are you?" Alma asked.

"I'm on my way to see our esteemed mayor." She angrily said.

"Johnnie, I want you to come home. You don't sound like you are in any shape to talk to anybody." Alma calmly said.

"Too late. I'm in front of his office. I love you." She ended that call, and ran toward the building.

"Johnnie?" Alma yelled, and realized that Johnnie had hung up. What in the world is going on?

"You can't go in there." Ballantine's secretary yelled as Johnnie pushed past her.

Johnnie threw the doors to his office open and walked in, interrupting a meeting. "What is your problem with me, Ballantine?"

Ballantine stood. "Come in. Detective Green isn't it?

"Cut the bullshit. You know exactly who I am, you son of a bitch." She spat. "I want to know what it is that makes you think I was a dirty cop."

"What a mouth you have on you, young lady." He said in a patronizing tone. "I have no intention of revealing my sources or what we have on you."

She became enraged and charged toward him.

"Not one more step, Green." He ordered. "If I were you, I'd leave. You don't have that nice and shiny gold shield to hide behind anymore. How the mighty have fallen."

Johnnie moved closer to him, but her efforts were halted as someone slowly stood in front of her. Through her rage, she remembered him from her Medal of Valor ceremony. He motioned with his eyes for her to control herself.

She composed herself, and looked at Ballantine. "Digging into people's personal lives is a door that swings both ways, Ballantine. It's what I do for a living now." She said. "Guess what? Like I was at being a cop, I'm really good at this, too." She flashed him a menacing smile, and then walked out.

"Disgusting homosexual." He spat.

Chapter Three

Alma paced back and forth in the living room. She was nervous; not knowing what was going on with Johnnie and wondering what was happening at the mayor's office. Why is she going to see the mayor? Alma wondered. Her anger began to rise because Johnnie had ignored her request for her to come home. She blew me off. Like what I wanted was no concern to her. "Oh, Querida. You will have hell on your hands when you get home." Alma hissed.

"What you say, Mami?" Phillip, who was playing with his fire truck, asked.

Alma ruffled the little boy's hair. "Oh nothing, mijo. Mami was talking to herself."

"Kay, Mami." He said, and then returned his attention to his truck.

Another thirty minutes had passed, when Alma finally heard the door to Johnnie's truck slam shut. She stood near the door, waiting for Johnnie to come in.

"Mama!' Phillip squealed as she ran over to Johnnie.

Johnnie lifted and hugged him close. She looked over at Alma and could see anger in her eyes. Johnnie was still furious from her confrontation with the mayor, but she hid it well in front of their son.

"Mijo, why don't you go and play in your room. Mama will be there in a little bit." Alma said as calmly as she could, reigning in her fury.

Phillip looked to Johnnie. She nodded and put him down. "Okay, Mami." He said as he toddled off with his truck.

When Phillip was out of earshot, Johnnie turned to Alma. "Baby, whatever it is, it's going to have to wait. I have had a hard day and I don't want to fight." She told her, and began to walk away.

Alma grabbed Johnnie by her arm and spun her around. "Well you aren't too old for your wants to kill you." She angrily spat.

Johnnie, anger already raging through her, snapped. She moved closer to Alma. Their faces were mere inches apart. "Woman, have you gone out of your fucking mind?" She furiously demanded.

Alma was shaken by Johnnie's uncharacteristic response. For the first time in all their years together, she knew what it was like to see Johnnie truly angry. 'What is it that has you like this, beloved?'

"Damn it, Alma. I said I didn't want to talk about it." Johnnie growled. She saw a glimmer of fear in Alma's eyes and took a step back. 'She doesn't deserve this. This is my problem and it has to stay out of our home.' Johnnie began to calm herself. The look in Alma's eyes helped her pull her emotions in check. "Baby, I'm sorry for yelling at you. This has nothing to do with you, and here I am being a bully." She calmly told her.

"Johnnie, I want to know what is going on. I want to know what has you like this." Alma whispered. "I have a right to know what's going on. I have earned that right, beloved."

Johnnie nodded her head in agreement. She walked over to one of the bay windows. Looking out, she began to tell Alma of what was going on.

"Tori told me that someone had been snooping around in our finances." She said. "Everything was looked at, even Champ's trust account. Nothing was left unturned." Johnnie paused and sighed heavily. "I work my ass off to make detective. Do everything by the book. I nearly loose my life and now they are saying that I took dirty money."

Alma was in shock. Their privacy had been invaded, and now they were accusing Johnnie of being a cop on the take. All of Johnnie's accomplishments were being tarnished.

Johnnie continued. "I went to Ballantine's office to confront him. It was a slap in the face the way he spoke to me, accusing me." She paused. "I let him know that I would be doing some digging of my own.

Alma could see the pain and despair in Johnnie's eyes. She walked over to her and embraced her. "Baby, I am so sorry. I understand how you feel."

Johnnie pulled away from her. "No, Alma, you don't." She turned away from Alma, as tears filled her eyes. "I'm gonna go downstairs for a while; work off some of this frustration. Tell Champ I'll be with him in a little while." She headed for the basement.

Alma watched her as she walked away. "I'm so sorry, beloved." She whispered.

After the meeting ended, Ballantine and his assistant Jonas Peters discussed what had transpired with Johnnie.

"How dare she come into my office and communicate threats. I should have her arrested." Ballantine angrily spat, contempt weighed heavily in his voice.

"I think it is a threat that you should take seriously, Alex." Peters advised. "Green was a good cop and an even better private investigator. She could cause problems for us."

Ballantine hated being told how good Johnnie was, when all he saw was an abomination. "She was not a good cop. She is a homosexual." He snapped. "She is a discredit to the police force and to this city." He had done everything that he could to discredit Johnnie while she was on the force. He used the same tactics to get others to resign from the force and other civil service jobs.

"Do you think that we should inform our benefactors about what's going on here?" Peters asked. "They are too important to us to be kept in the dark, and far more dangerous."

"We don't need to bother our friends with this. She is not worth their time." He spat. "We can handle her."

"You're the boss." Peters said. "But you had better not underestimate her. She's not as vulnerable as you think, and she won't go down without a fight."

Ballantine faced him. "Are you afraid of that pervert? Does she scare you that much?"

"Alex, she could cause problems for us." Peters sharply said.

"Then you go and run with your tail between your legs." Ballantine disgustedly spat. "She is nothing, a nobody. It's time she got what she deserved."

Peters tried to reason with him. "Alex, I don't think......"

Ballantine cut him off. "I don't pay you to think, Jonas. I pay you to do what I tell you."

"Alright, Alex, this is your show. I just hope that you know what you are doing." Peters said, and then put on his jacket.

Ballantine took a moment to consider what Peters said. "Tomorrow, we take our suspicions to the press. That will keep her busy."

"Whatever you say, Alex." Peters said. You can fuck up if you want to, but I will be damned if I'm going down with you.

Phillip and Johnnie were roughhousing on the floor in his bedroom. Alma stood leaning against the doorframe watching mother and son at play.

"One, two, three. You win Stone Cold Phillip Green Martinez, the new WWF Heavyweight Champion." Johnnie announced, and then began to cheer. Phillip stood up and began to walk around like Steve Austin himself, lifting his arms in victory.

Both mothers laughed at the antics of their son. "Okay you two, it's time for the champion to go to bed."

"Aw, Mami." Phillip whined in complaint. "No bed, wanna beat Mama."

"Beat Mama tomorrow, Champ. Time for bed." Johnnie said as she picked him up and placed him in his crib.

Johnnie was lying on her stomach, with her arm thrown possessively over Alma's waist. She tried to turn over and couldn't because something was on her back. She opened her eyes and cautiously looked over her shoulder, and found a three-year-old Phillip sleeping soundly on her back.

"Alma, baby, wake up." Johnnie whispered.

"Not now, Johnnie. Too tired." Alma groggily responded.

Johnnie chuckled. "No, baby, look at my back."

Alma slowly opened her eyes, and found Phillip straddling Johnnie's back and a line of drool running off her shoulder.

"Seems the little bambino has become an escape artist." Johnnie laughed.

Johnnie returned from her thoughts. "Hey Champ, do you want a big boy bed?"

"Yay, Mama." Phillip exclaimed as he jumped up and down in the crib.

"Well, if you go to sleep now, when I get home tomorrow you, Mami and I will go and buy you a big boy bed. Okay, Champ?"

"Kay, Mama." Phillip agreed and quickly lay down to go to sleep.

They kissed him goodnight, and turned off his light.

In their bedroom, Johnnie wrapped her arms around Alma. "Alma, I love you so much. I'm sorry I was so short with you."

Alma smiled and whispered. "I love you, too. Now come, time for bed."

"But I'm not sleepy." Johnnie said in protest.

Alma slightly pulled away, so she could look at Johnnie. She smiled seductively. "Who said anything about sleeping?"

Johnnie left for work earlier than usual. When she arrived, Laura had made coffee and booted the computers.

"Morning, Laura." Johnnie said.

Laura was startled. "Good morning, Johnnie. You are here early." She asked, concern drawn on her face.

"Yeah. We have a new assignment. A very important one." Johnnie said. "Everything else is on hold." Johnnie grabbed her mug and poured herself some coffee. "As soon as everyone else gets in, I want all of you to come into my office."

Laura studied her tall friend. She could sense that whatever was happening was big. "Sure, Johnnie. I'll take care of it."

"Thanks, Laura." Johnnie said as she absent-mindedly stirred her coffee. "By the way, I'm not taking any calls today. Nobody, except for Alma." With that said, she turned and walked into her office.

The doors to Green and Associates swung open and a slender woman of medium height strolled in.

"Good morning, Laura." Glenda Washington said in a singsong voice. She was a twenty-seven year old law school graduate who had just recently passed the State Bar. Her pursuit of her degree was delayed when she became pregnant and gave birth to her daughter. Glen was African-American, with a light complexion and gray eyes. She wore her hair in Cherokee braids, and was dressed to the nines in a pale blue Donna Karan suit.

"Good morning, Glen." Laura said, smiling. "Here are your messages." She paused as she handed them to her. "Johnnie wants us in her office as soon as Mike and Tracy get here."

"What's going on, Laura?" Glen asked. "Another big case coming up?"

Laura shook her head. "I don't know, but whatever it is Johnnie is not happy about it."

Any further conversation was interrupted when Mike and Tracy made their way into the office. Mike was a forty-five year old former FBI agent. His burly physique reminded one of a cuddly teddy bear. Tracy was a thirty-three year old former Special Victims Unit detective. He was forced into early retirement by the tactics Mayor Ballantine used to 'weed out' homosexuals from the police department.

"Good morning, you two." Laura said as she handed them their messages.

"Morning, ladies." Tracy said in his deep baritone voice.

"Good morning." Mike cheerfully said.

"Johnnie wants to see us in her office." Laura said as she stood and walked around her desk. They all followed.

Johnnie was sitting at her desk. She was deep in thought when a light knock stirred her, bringing her back. "Come in." She said.

The small group filed into her office. "Johnnie, you wanted to see us?" Glen asked, and then she noticed the look on Johnnie's face. "What's going on?"

Johnnie stood up and walked over to the window. She was silent as she looked out at the Wilmington skyline. She finally cleared her throat and began to speak. "I have been targeted by Mayor Ballantine. He has launched an investigation into my professional and private life. I am being accused of being a dirty cop."

Tracy stood up in outrage. "What? This is a joke. How can that bastard accuse you of being dirty?" He yelled. He knew what Ballantine was capable of doing; how easy it was for him to destroy lives.

Johnnie turned to him, and in silent agreement acknowledged the true meaning of his words. "You know how he rolls, Tracy; and we both know the reason behind this."

"Well, what are we going to do about it?" Laura asked.

"Fight fire with fire." Mike firmly said. "We know how to dig, too."

Johnnie smiled. It made her feel good knowing that her friends were standing by her. "Mike's right. We are going to do our own digging." She paused as she walked back over to her desk. "I want everything; from what time his mother hatched his ass, to what time he took a piss this morning." A feral grin formed on her face. "Let's take a look at his finances. Especially his campaign contributions."

"There was a rumor that during the last election he received contributions from out of state." Laura said.

Johnnie's grin became even bigger. She knew that Laura had contacts everywhere in Wilmington. "That's great, Laura. Please work that angle for me."

"I'm on it, Johnnie." She said.

"Well, we all know what to do." Glen said. "Let's get to work."

Johnnie was beginning to feel a little more in control. Realizing that she may be working late tonight, she decided to give Alma a call.

"Hello." Alma groggily said.

Johnnie smiled. "Hey, baby. What are you still doing in bed?" She asked, knowing that she was the reason.

"My wife was overzealous last night." She happily sighed as she snuggled Johnnie's pillow. "It was a long night."

Johnnie chuckled. "I couldn't help it. My wife has that effect on me."

"So, do you want to pick up where you left off?" She seductively asked.

"I can't baby, as much as I would love to. I have a lot of work to do." Johnnie said. "Are you going to be busy around lunchtime?"

"No, why?" She asked.

"I want to have lunch with you and Champ, and then go shopping for his bed. I'm going to be working late tonight, and I don't want to disappoint him." Johnnie said.

Alma smiled at the commitment Johnnie had for her family. "Sure, Querida. We'll be there at noon."

"I'll be waiting." Johnnie said.

Ballantine had called a press conference. All the city's television and print media were present.

"Ladies and gentlemen of the press, I have an announcement to make." Ballantine stated, as he stood on the steps of City Hall. "We are fighting a war against corruption in the public and private sectors of our fair city. Criminals have had a foothold in Wilmington for far to long." He paused as he mugged for the cameras. "As mayor, I plan to take back our city and run these criminals out on a rail." He paused again to clear his throat. "This office has launched an investigation into the goings on of public officials and private citizens that have or may have had ties into civil government."

Linda Cruz, of the Wilmington Sun, interrupted him with a question. "When will this investigation begin, and who will be investigated?"

Annoyed at the interruption, he hesitantly answered. "It has already begun. Those that are under investigation are in city government and the private sector."

"Karen Grace, WWIL." The reporter stated. "Who are some of the people that are under investigation, and what are the allegations?"

Ballantine was a little unnerved. He had only planned to give the reporters a little information, hoping that they would investigate on their own. But now he was cornered into dropping names. 'Damn that Karen Grace.' He thought to himself. "One of those that are under investigation is Johnetta Green, former homicide detective of the WPD. We have information that she was involved in organized crime."

Gasps came from the group of reporters. They could not believe that a former police officer the caliber of Johnnie Green could be corrupt.

Grace bombarded Ballantine with questions. "Where are you getting your information, sir? Is she linked to organized crime? How long has she been involved?"

'Alex, what have you done?' Peters inwardly groaned, knowing that what Ballantine had just done could be political suicide.

"We cannot divulge our sources, nor can we make any more comments on the details of her involvement." Ballantine stammered. "When we are free to comment more, we will hold another press conference. Thank you for coming." He quickly turned and walked back to his office, a visibly upset Peters followed.

The reporters hurried back to their respective papers and TV stations to meet their deadlines.

Johnnie, Alma and Phillip returned from lunch and shopping. They entered the office as Laura was hanging up the phone. Johnnie could see the look of outrage on Laura's face.

"What's wrong, Laura? Is it one of the kids?" Johnnie asked, her voice full of concern.

"No, Johnnie, nothing like that." She responded. 'How can I tell her. She's going to hit the roof.'

"Well what is it?" Johnnie asked.

"The phone call was from a friend of mine. A reporter from the Wilmington Observer." She hesitantly said.

"And?" Johnnie asked.

'God, please don't let her snap.' Laura prayed. "The mayor had a press conference this morning, alleging that you are involved in organized crime."

"What?" She angrily yelled. "He has gone too far this time. That sorry son of a bitch." She hissed through clenched teeth.

"Sonda bish." Phillip said.

"Phillip, no!" Alma said, rushing over to the little boy. "That was not nice."

"Sonda bish." He repeated. "Mama said sonda bish."

"Johnnie, do something." Alma begged.

Johnnie calmed herself as best she could, the walked over to the boy and picked him up. "Son, what Mama said was not nice. I don't want you to say that, ok?"

"Kay, Mama." He said.

"Uhm, Laura, could you watch Phillip for a couple of minutes. I need to speak with Johnnie." Alma asked.

Laura nodded. 'I hope you can calm her down. If you don't she's gonna be a bear to work with.' "Come on, little man. Let's get you some juice." She said to Phillip.

Alma walked with Johnnie into her office. When Alma closed the door, Johnnie cut loose with a string of very choice expletives.

"Baby, calm down. It's all lies and when the truth comes out, he'll be a laughing stock. They may run him out of office." She calmly said.

"In the meantime I'm just supposed to let the bastard ruin my reputation? Damn him." She yelled as she slammed her fist onto her desk.

Alma walked over to her and cupped Johnnie's face into her hands, and looked into her eyes. "Johnnie, your clients won't believe those lies. They know you and trust you. Trust me, they will stand behind you. If they don't then to hell with them."

Johnnie sighed heavily. "Always the optimist." She said as she wrapped her arms around Alma's waist. "That's why I love you so much. You always keep me centered." She kissed her softly. "Te amo, Alma."

Alma smiled. "I love you too, Querida. Don't work too late tonight. Te quiero hacer el amor." She whispered.

Johnnie pulled her closer, kissed her neck and fondled her buttocks. "Te deseo ahora?"

"Right now?" Alma asked, stunned. "What about Phillip?"

Johnnie released her, and walked over to the door and locked it. "Laura has him. He'll be okay." She said. She walked back over to her and led her to the sofa. "A little now, and a lot when I get home."

"Si, si, Mami." She breathlessly said as Johnnie mounted her.

Johnnie was kissing and licking Alma's neck as she fondled her breasts. Alma pulled away.

"What?" Johnnie huskily asked. "Laura has Champ. He's fine."

Alma smiled. "I want to ease your tensions, baby. Let me handle things."

"Yes ma'am. What do you want to me to do?" She asked, even more aroused.

"Strip." Alma ordered.

Johnnie was shocked. "Are you serious?"

"Don't make me ask twice." She softly demanded.

"What ever you say, Mami." Johnnie said, as she quickly undressed.

Johnnie was standing completely naked before Alma. Alma marveled at her gorgeous body. She looked at her muscular calves and thighs, admiring the definition. Her eyes traveled to the soft hair that covered Johnnie cleft. Her mouth watered, imagining the sweet taste of Johnnie. She looked at the hardness of Johnnie's stomach, her well-defined abs. Her gaze continued up to Johnnie's soft breasts; the nipples engorged, just begging to be suckled. Alma looked at them hungrily. She stood and walked over to Johnnie. The scent of Johnnie's cologne permeated her nostrils and intensified her desire. Alma touched Johnnie's strong shoulders. Her hands traveled down to aching breasts, causing Johnnie to moan with desire. Alma's hands traveled further south, past a quivering stomach to reach Johnnie's ache. Alma teased her clit, and then allowed her fingers to slide into moist aching folds. Johnnie moaned and shuddered, her legs became weak. Alma removed her fingers and tasted them. Johnnie was wobbling, but managed to softly kiss Alma's forehead.

Sensing that Johnnie was about to fall, Alma led her over to the sofa. "Sit, beloved."

When Johnnie sat, Alma pulled her thighs apart and slid her fingers back inside. She brushed her thumb against Johnnie's swollen clit.

"Oh yeah, baby. Just like that." Johnnie softly said.

Alma smiled to herself, knowing that she was working her magic on Johnnie. She wanted more, so she sucked Johnnie's clit into her mouth.

Laura sat at her desk, while Phillip played on the floor with his toy car. She heard Johnnie moan loudly, causing a blush to creep up her neck. "Phillip, why don't we go into the conference room and watch a little TV?"

Alma's tongue was softly brushing against Johnnie's clit. The clockwise motion worked Johnnie into a frenzy. Alma kneaded Johnnie's breasts, rolling the nipples between her fingers. She placed her tongue inside Johnnie, causing her hips to rise from the sofa. Johnnie began to thrust her hips in rhythm with Alma's tongue.

"Oh Alma." Johnnie hissed. "Yes baby. Ohhh..."

Alma moved her tongue back to Johnnie's clit, and put two fingers inside, matching Johnnie's thrusts.

"Shit, yeah baby. I'm co- coming. Gods help me. Oh, Alma." She hoarsely said, her body gasped for air.

After Johnnie's release, Alma moved up to kiss her lightly. She breathed her warm breath against Johnnie's lips and kissed her again. Johnnie tasted herself on Alma.

"I needed that, baby." Johnnie breathlessly said.

Alma softly smiled. "I know you did. Now I'm going to wash up and get out of here. I want you home as soon as you can get there." She said, with a wink.

Johnnie stood, weak legged. Alma stood up to steady her. "I love you, Alma."

"And I you, beloved." Alma softly said.

They walked to the bathroom to freshen up. Johnnie dressed quickly. They walked back into the outer office. Laura smirked at both of them, causing Johnnie to look down at her feet in embarrassment.

"Are you alright now, Johnnie?" Laura teasingly asked.

Johnnie chuckled. "I'm fine." She picked up Phillip and hugged him. She kissed both he and Alma goodbye, and watched them as they left.

Chapter Four

Mike, Glenda and Tracy were in the conference room talking with Johnnie. They were going over the information that each had while they ate take out. Laura ran into the room with a smile on her face.

"You guys will never guess what I just found out." She said, out of breath.

"Spill it, Laura." Glenda said.

"Our mayor didn't just get his campaign contributions from the citizens and corporations of Wilmington." She told them. "He also got contributions from an organization called The Friends of Alexander Ballantine."

"So?" Tracy asked, wanting her to elaborate.

"The Friends of Alexander Ballantine is not based in Wilmington." Laura said.

"Well, where is it based?" Johnnie anxiously asked.

She straightened herself. "New York." She smugly announced.

Johnnie smiled. "Well, well, Mr. Mayor." She paused. "Let's see if we can put some names and faces to this group of contributors."

"I'm on it, Johnnie." Mike said, as he picked up his organizer.

"Alright, Mike. But let's call it a night." Johnnie said. "Good work, Laura."

Laura smiled. "Thanks, Johnnie."

It was nine pm when Johnnie arrived at home. She walked in and saw Alma sitting on the sofa holding the newspaper.

"Hi, baby." Johnnie said as she kissed Alma's cheek and sat down next to her. "Is Champ asleep? Did his bed get here? Was he excited?"

"Yes, Querida. His bed arrived and they set it up." She sighed heavily. "He loves it."

Johnnie calmed down from her excitement. She looked at Alma and could tell that something was wrong. "Alma?"

Alma looked at her with tearful eyes. She could say nothing, so she just handed the folded newspaper to Johnnie. Johnnie opened it and saw her picture and a headline stating that she was under investigation by the mayor's office for connections to organized crime. She leaped from her seat, and threw the paper across the room.

"Damn him, Alma. How can they print these lies?" She angrily asked. "This is all unsubstantiated. Fuck me!" She hissed. "This is going to ruin me."

Alma stood and walked over to Johnnie. "Look at me, beloved." She took Johnnie's face into her hands and forced eye contact. "These are all lies. He has nothing to back this up with. When the truth comes out, and it will, it will be him that is ruined. Not you, baby, him."

Johnnie's rage began to subside. Alma held her shaking body, soothing and consoling her.

"Go take a shower, and come to bed." She softly said. Johnnie nodded.

Alma knew that Johnnie would be in there for a while, so she placed aromatherapy candles around the bedroom. She had a couple of Coronas in an ice bucket near the bed. She lit the candles, and then she put an Isley Brothers CD in the stereo. Alma took 'Little J' from the drawer, and took it and the remote over to the bed. She took off her robe and slipped between the sheets.

When Johnnie came out of the bathroom, she was calm. She looked around and a smile formed. 'She did all this for me.'

Alma whispered for her to come to bed. She turned on the stereo with the remote, and turned back the sheet for Johnnie.

After hours of intense lovemaking, Johnnie gave Alma a chance to rest. She was spooned behind her, kissing her neck. "Alma, I love you so much. I would lose my mind if I couldn't be with you." She whispered.

"I love you too, baby." Alma softly said. "I'm so glad to have you in my life."

"You keep me grounded, love. You always know what to do. I'd be going crazy if it weren't for you." Johnnie said.

The respite was short lived as Johnnie began to fondle Alma's breasts. Alma arched her back to meet Johnnie's strong but gentle hands. Johnnie, still strapped, rose to her knees. She pulled Alma up to face her, and began kissing her lips, neck and then breasts. She slid her fingers into Alma's wet folds, making both of them moan. After a while of gentle fingering, she moved behind Alma. She rubbed the phallus against Alma's buttocks. Alma knew what Johnnie wanted; knew what she needed.

Alma was so wet; Johnnie had no problem entering her. She pulled her back toward her hips, slowly at first. She reached around Alma and gently rubbed her clit. Alma was on fire, and she intensified her backwards thrusts.

"Is it good, baby? Do you want more?" Johnnie asked, keeping pace with Alma's rhythm. The sound of flesh slapping together echoed in the bedroom.

"Yes!" Alma breathlessly hissed.

Johnnie withdrew, and quickly turned Alma over onto her back. She entered her again and pulled Alma's knees apart to watch as the phallus slipped in and out of her with ease.

"Johnnie, I'm coming." She moaned.

Johnnie lowered herself onto Alma. She wrapped her arm around Alma's waist, and quickened her thrusts. Alma wrapped her arms around Johnnie's neck and shoulders like a vise, and then screamed her release. "Oh, God!"

Johnnie was gently biting Alma's neck, as she had her hands cupped around Alma's shoulders. He stomach tightened as she neared release. "Alma, oh baby." Johnnie moaned as she went over.

Exhausted, they lay together, with Johnnie still inside Alma. After moments of murmurings of love, Alma slowly began to thrust her hips upward.

"More, beloved." Alma pleaded.

Johnnie eagerly gave in to Alma's pleas.

Johnnie arrived at the office around noon. When she went into the building, she was met by a large group of reporters.

"Ms. Green, any comments on the allegations made by Mayor Ballantine?" Karen Grace asked.

She continued to walk as they followed her. Johnnie held her temper well. Outside she was the model of composure, but inside all hell's fire burned.

"Is it true that you are involved in organized crime?" Another reporter asked.

Johnnie made it to the bank of elevators and stepped into one that was available. As soon as the doors closed, she cut loose with a barrage of expletives and didn't stop until she walked into her offices.

"Good lord, Johnnie." Laura said. "What is going on?"

"There are reporters crawling all over the fucking lobby." She angrily spat. "Damn that Ballantine to hell." She yelled as she hurled her coffee travel mug across the room, shattering it against the wall. "No calls, Laura. No visitors." She then walked into her office and slammed the door shut.

'Johnnie please hold it together.' Laura thought. 'For all of our sakes.' "Better call maintenance for a clean up." She sighed.

"That is very good news." Ballantine said over the phone. "Thank you for calling." The smile that was on his face could light downtown Wilmington.

Jonas walked in and saw Ballantine smiling. "Well, looks like you are very happy. Care to share with the rest of the class?" He asked.

Ballantine leaned back in his chair. "Looks like my plan is already in motion." He smugly answered. "Green has so many reporters up her ass, that she won't know what to do."

"How do you know this?" Jonas inquired as he took a seat across from his boss.

"I just got a phone call from one of my friends at The Observer." Ballantine said. "Green was swamped with reporters as soon as she walked into her office building."

Jonas stood up and leaned onto Ballantine's desk. "Alex, I don't know about this. Green is someone not to be messed with."

The smile that was on Ballantine's face was wiped away and replaced with an angry scowl. He stood up and placed his fists on the desk. "I am not to be messed with. That woman is an abomination to human race. They all are." He spat. "I am finally going to bring that high riding dyke down." He arched his eyebrow questioningly. "Are you afraid of her?"

Jonas was becoming angry at his arrogant attitude. "No. It's not her that I am afraid of. It is our friends that scare me. They are not going to like it if you bring attention to them and the partnership they have with us." He paused as he tried to control his temper. "Alex, Green is not going to sit still for this. She said that she would do her own digging..."

Ballantine cut him off. "That bitch won't have time to do anything but clear her name. She is going to be to busy trying to make nice with her clients." He returned to his seat. "If that is all, then you can leave. I have business that needs to be taken care of."

Jonas looked down at him. 'You are a stupid little man, Alex. When you fall, I will not be falling with you.' He thought to himself. He said nothing in response, knowing that it wouldn't do any good.

Later that afternoon, Johnnie was talking on the phone with Tracy when there was a knock on her door. "Hold on a minute, Tracy." She told him. "Come in."

Laura stepped into Johnnie's office. "I'm sorry to interrupt, but there is someone here to see you."

"I said no visitors, Laura. I don't want to talk to anybody." She said, annoyed.

"Johnnie, I think you will want to see him. He says that he is a friend of a friend, and that what he has is of the utmost importance." She whispered.

"Tracy, let me call you back." She said. "Tell him to come in."

Johnnie stood up and rolled down her sleeves as Laura brought the young man in. He was in his early thirties, with dark hair and green eyes. "I'm Bobby Cerrone. Are you Johnnie Green?" He asked as he extended his hand.

Johnnie accepted his gesture. "Yes, I'm Johnnie Green. How may I help you?"

He smiled at her. She immediately recognized his smile. "I'm here to help you. I'm Tori's cousin, and I think I have something that may be of interest to you."

Johnnie returned his smile. "By all means, please have a seat."

Laura smiled. Her friend's mood was changing for the better. She left and closed the door behind her.

"We get Mama something?" Phillip asked his mother as they walked in the mall.

Alma smiled down at him. "Sure, baby. What do you want to buy for Mama?"

Phillip's eyebrows knitted together as he thought. "Moosic, Mami. We buy moosic for Mama twuck. She like moosic."

Alma laughed. "She sure does. Let's get Mama some music."

"She be prised, Mami?" He asked.

"Yes, mijo. Mama will be surprised." She said. 'We both have surprises for Mama.'

Johnnie pushed herself back from her desk. "You have got to be kidding me. He does what?" She asked in absolute disbelief.

"Your Mayor Ballantine is a pedophile. He has a lust for young boys. He comes to New York, and goes to what is known in some circles as 'chicken houses' and picks young boys to have sex with." He informed her.

Johnnie abruptly stood from her chair. "That fucking hypocrite. He has the nerve to call homosexuals sick and perverted. He is the sick one. That bastard is a child molester." She walked over to the wet bar. "All this time, all the damage he has done to so many people, he projected his own self hatred on to others."

Bobby pulled a file from his briefcase. "Not only that, he takes these little trips at the taxpayers' expense."

She turned around to face him. "Almost everything that he has accused me of, he has done himself."

"I have this for you, too." He told her as he pulled a large manila envelope from his briefcase. "You may need these."

"What are they?" She inquired.

"These are photos." When Johnnie gave him a questioning look, he continued. "I have a friend in Vice at the NYPD. They raided one of those houses, and that's how I got all this."

"I can understand files, but pictures. How?" She asked.

"The owner of the house got his jollies by taking photos of his customers." He revealed.

Johnnie took the file and the envelope. "Thank you. This will come in handy."

Closing his case, he stood. "I must go now. Here is my card, use it if you need to."

Johnnie took the card, and then extended her hand. "Thank you for handling this so promptly."

He took her hand and shook it. "You're welcome. Tori told me that this was urgent, so I dropped everything to get it done."

"Tori is a good friend." Johnnie said.

"That, and good cousin, too." He said. "I wouldn't be where I am if it weren't for her." He looked at his watch. "I'd better go, or I'll miss my flight."

"Thank you, again." Johnnie said.

Alma and Phillip were returning from their shopping trip, when they noticed a group of reporters on her front lawn.

"Who dat, Mami?" Phillip asked from the back seat.

Alma became nervous. "Just some people, mijo. Don't worry about it."

When she pulled in the driveway, they descended on the car like a pack of wolves. Alma opened the door, and got out of the car.

"Ms. Martinez, do you have any comments to the statement that were made by Mayor Ballantine about Ms. Green?" One reporter asked.

"No comment." was Alma's response. She opened the back door to retrieve Phillip from his car seat. The reporters continued to hound her. She put Phillip down on the ground so she could get the two bags. "No comment, now please leave us alone." She yelled.

The flashes from the cameras and the noise from all the questioning frightened Phillip so much, that he took off running down the driveway. Alma looked for him and saw where he was heading. At the same moment she saw a car speeding around the corner. She took off in hot pursuit of him.

"Phillip, no!" She screamed. "Oh God!"

Johnnie and her associates were about to have a meeting in the conference room, when Alma's brother Miguel ran in.

Johnnie looked up at him. "Miguel, what are you doing here?"

"Johnnie, there's been an accident." He said, out of breath.

She became panic-stricken. She grabbed him by his upper arms and began shaking him. "What's happened? Where is Alma?"

"It's not Alma. It's Phillip." He tearfully told her. Johnnie was in shock. "Come, we must go now."

When they arrived at the hospital, Alma was crying hysterically. She looked up and saw Johnnie. Johnnie ran over to her, and embraced her. Tears were streaming down her face. "What happened, baby? Is he alright?" She quickly asked, her voice trembling.

Alma was frantic. She was speaking Spanish and was incoherent. Johnnie took Alma's face into her hands. "Calm down, Alma. You aren't making any sense." She softly said.

Alma looked into Johnnie's eyes. Eyes that were so much like Phillip's. She could see Johnnie pleading to her, so she tried to calm herself. "Johnnie...the reporters were at the house...scared Phillip.........made him run into the street." She told her. "A car hit him. A car hit our baby." She began to wail.

Johnnie pulled her into her chest. "He's gonna be ok, baby. He just has to be ok." She said, crying.

Rosa and Miguel were waiting with them. Laura and Glenda came in. "Glenda kneeled in front of Johnnie and Alma. "Any word?" She asked.

Alma was quietly sobbing into Johnnie's chest. Johnnie had tears in her eyes as she held Alma. "No, nothing yet, Glen."

The doctor came out. Johnnie and Alma stood up, surrounded by family and friends. They looked at him expectantly.

"We did everything we could to save your son. I'm sorry." He told them.

A loud wail came from Alma before she fainted. Miguel was able to catch her before she hit the floor. Johnnie stared at the doctor in shock. Tears began to flow freely from her eyes. She moved closer to the doctor and grabbed him by his lab coat. "It's a mistake. My son is not dead." She said as she held on to his coat. "My boy is fine."

"Ma'am, I'm sorry. We did everything humanly possible." He softly said. Then he removed himself from Johnnie's grasp to go and attend to Alma.

"Johnnie?" Laura whispered, placing her hands on Johnnie's shoulders. "Alma needs you."

Johnnie was in a fog. She could hear a voice, but didn't recognize it. Then she heard Alma's name. "Alma?" She began to come back to her senses. "Alma, where is Alma?" She asked Laura.

"She's here, Johnnie. Look." She said pointing to the sofa.

Johnnie could see an unconscious Alma. She rushed over to her. "Alma, baby, please wake up." She softly said to her.

The doctor waved smelling salts under Alma's nose. Her head snapped to the side, and she pushed his hand away. Her eyes fluttered open, and she looked directly at Johnnie. She could see the pain and agony in her eyes. She sat up and pulled Johnnie to her. They both wept.

When they regained some composure, they asked if they could see him. The doctor led them to the treatment cubicle where Phillip was. Upon seeing the small body, Alma broke down again.

"Mijo. Porque, Mi Dios? Porque?" Alma asked, weeping.

Johnnie looked at his broken little body. She ran her finger through his black curls, and touched his bruised face. She could feel her heart breaking, and a lump in her throat.

"What are you looking at, Champ?" Johnnie asked Phillip as she held the book she was reading to him.

"You hands, Mama. Dey big." He said.

She put the book down and took his hand and placed it in hers. "One day, son, your hands will be bigger than mine."

"When, Mama?" He asked.

Johnnie kissed the boy on the top of his head. "When you grow up, buddy. When you get bigger and taller."

Johnnie took Phillip's hand into her own. 'That will never happen, now.' She held Alma, and they cried together.



Continued in Part 2