Watching-Part 5

[mjcmmv]

PART 5

Chapter 19: A Measure of Success
August 1st, 1994: Miami-Dade County Courthouse
Gina

She watched with disgust as Castaneda leaned over to whisper in his lawyer’s ear. Sonny had told her all about this man, a man who preyed on young boys. Danny Santiago had been one of them.

She knew it wasn’t smart coming to the trial, but she wanted to offer support in some small way. After all, it was because of her Sonny had agreed to help Danny in the first place. She leaned forward to get a better view. Castaneda turned slightly in his chair and stared up at the spectators in the gallery, until at last, he found her. When their eyes met, he grinned. Gina felt her pulse race as she shrank back in her seat. 

It was as if he had been expecting her. 

Sonny would be furious. Before the trial, he had insisted Gina and the baby leave the house to stay with her Aunt. He wanted her out of the picture at least until after he testified. And he had made it very clear, he did not want her anywhere near the courthouse.

“Castaneda knows about you and the baby. And he’s working for Pedrosa! It’s too dangerous!”

“I’ll stay out of sight!” 

“Don’t make this any more difficult than it already is, please! I need to be focused and I can’t get the job done if I’m worrying about you and Emily!” 

That made her angry. She was an undercover cop. She knew how to stay in the shadows. 

They’d been arguing a lot lately. About the trial…and about Gina’s job. “You have to see how Emily has changed things! You’re a new mother, for God’s sake!”

“Damn it, Crockett! I love my job! I’m not ready to give it up and you have no right to expect me to!”

He had been quiet after that. Later, he came over and put his arms around her. “You know, you’re right. I should know better than anyone how hard it is to give up a job you care about. I’m sorry.” 

She knew he meant it and she loved him for it. But he stuck to his guns when it came to the trial. “I promise I’ll make it up to you,” he said. “I want to go into this with a clear head, Gina. Humor me, please. Just this once.”

Trudy had stopped over for a visit, and when Gina poured out her frustrations to her partner, she was surprised to hear Trudy supporting Crockett for a change.

You must see his side, Gina. Castaneda works for Pedrosa. Pedrosa could use you to stop Crockett from testifying against his man. Worse yet, he might try to get back at Sonny by harming you or the baby.”

“I’m a cop too, Trudy. I know what I’m doing.”

“Yes... but your head is all turned around right now.” Trudy nuzzled against the back of Emily’s neck. “Hmm, she smells so good.”

“Let me put her down.” Gina reached over to take the baby and put her back in the crib. She stood there looking down at her daughter. There were so many new feelings inside her she found hard to describe. She hated to admit it, but Sonny was probably right about the job. The danger was certainly a factor. And how on earth would she ever be able to pose as a prostitute again?

But police work was in her blood. She wasn’t the type to stay home and push a stroller through the mall.

Trudy was standing in the doorway watching Gina pat the child gently. “This little lady has your full attention, Gina. That’s only going to work against you if you go back too soon. Listen to Sonny, for now. You’ll know when the time is right.”

********

The lawyers’ opening remarks were brief. The state was confident they would wrap it up in a week at the most.

“I call my first witness, Detective James Sonny Crockett to the stand, your honor.” 

Prosecutor Harold Jensen, Esquire looked over at his star witness. Sonny was sworn in and he sat down in the witness chair, adjusting the microphone in front of him.

“So, Detective. Identify yourself for the court, if you please.”

“James Sonny Crockett. I’m a detective with Metro Dade, Vice Division.”

“I see. And how long have you been on the force, Detective?”

“Eighteen years, now.”

“And would you say you’re good at what you do, Detective?”

Gina saw Sonny struggle with his temper and knew he was annoyed.  “I’ve had my share of arrests, counselor, if you want to use that as a measure of success.”

Harold grinned. “Oh, but I do, Detective Crockett. I most certainly do.”

Sonny had complained to her about Jenson often enough and now she saw why. His approach to questioning a witness was insufferable. Even so, the man got his share of convictions, and Sonny felt more comfortable with him than some of the other lawyers he’d dealt with in the past.

“So, in your own words, would you tell the court what took place on the night of April 20, 1994.”

She had heard Sonny testify before and knew he was good at it. Impassioned about his work, he never failed to fire the imagination whenever he led you into his world. She could tell the jury was hanging on every word. 

After an hour, they recessed for lunch and the courtroom stood as the judge and his black robes swirled into his private chambers.

Gina sighed. The Defense lawyer hadn’t even cross-examined Sonny yet. Looked like the questioning would go on longer than he expected.  Instead of playing hide and seek with a killer, she decided it was time for her to go home. “Excuse me,” she said to the woman sitting next to her as she got up to leave. 

The people in the row averted their legs to give her room and she glanced down once more to see if Castaneda was still watching her. Instead, she met the eyes of her husband, staring up in disbelief.

 

“I asked you not to come,” he said, catching up with her on the courtroom steps.

“I know you did. But I was careful.”

“I can’t believe you disregarded my wishes, Gina, knowing what it meant to me!”

She bit her lip. Part of her wanted to hug him and say she was sorry, but her pride held her back. “Stop over-reacting, Sonny. You’re making a scene.”

Hurt and disappointed, he stood there for a moment, and without a word, he turned to go.

“Sonny,” she called after him. “Wait!”

He looked back. “We’ll talk later.” 

One of the officers from downtown was smoking nearby and seemed to be enjoying their heated conversation.  

“Officer Lawson here will make sure you get home safely.”

Officer Lawson’s grin disappeared.

But Gina still wanted to make things right. “Okay, I was wrong. Let’s not make a federal case out of this, okay? I’m sorry. I should have listened to you.”

Sonny ran his fingers through his hair. “I wasn’t thinking straight. Moving you to your aunt’s place was not good enough. You need a one-on-one. Pick up Emily. Then, go home. I’ll arrange for around-the-clock protection.”

Glancing back over at Officer Lawson, he jerked his head toward the squad car parked at the foot of the steps. 
“I want the sirens going full blast. And Mike can ride shotgun. Check out the house and property thoroughly before you escort her inside. And stay with her until I get back.”

“Sonny…” She reached over to touch him and felt the hot tears of remorse stinging her eyes. He looked defeated and it broke her heart. 

 “Don’t you see? I’m just trying to protect you and Emily the only way I know how. You have to trust my judgment on this, sweetheart. Please, go with Jimmy, and I promise, we’ll talk tonight.”

 ********

She waited up until she heard the turn of his key in the lock. Then, she heard the patrol car outside drive away.

“Hi,” Sonny said when he noticed her sitting in the dark. “Is she asleep?”

“Yes. Finally.”

“Then, why are you still up?”

“You know why.”

He sighed. “I’m beat, Gina. It’s been a long day.”

“Is it over?”

“Yeah.” 

She could tell he was upset.

“Castaneda got off, didn’t he?”

Sonny flipped off the outside porch light. “I’m going in to check on Emily. I’ll tell you all about what happened after I cool off a little.”

It was a while before she heard the shower running and then, finally turn off. When he joined her, she snuggled up close to him, feeling the moisture on his skin soak into her cotton gown.

He began, his voice low and soft. “The judge didn’t buy the evidence. Castaneda has friends in high places,” he murmured. 

“You mean Pedrosa does.”

“Doesn’t matter who. The only thing that matters is he’s out. Another piece of garbage added back to the pile.”

“I don’t understand. You found him with the drugs. And what about the tape….”

“The tape was thrown out. Something about it being too difficult for the judge to understand. Mind you, his name is Hernandez and he speaks fluent Spanish, but he refused to even consider it after listening for a whole five minutes.”

Gina felt the anger well up inside.

“The drugs, well, that’s something different all together. Castaneda’s lawyer had a laundry list of legal loopholes. Take your pick: ‘The officers had no justifiable cause to stop him … they didn’t identify themselves … they didn’t read him his rights… Danny was the one with the drugs-he knew nothing about it’. We had no way to disprove any of their claims, so the judge bought it; it was that simple … end of story.”

“What did Castillo think?”

“He wasn’t surprised. He knew the case was weak. He warned me before hand, but I didn’t listen.”

“I’m sorry, honey. Sorry about what happened, and sorry I showed up this morning.”

He reached up to stroke her hair and kissed her on the forehead. “Forget it. Let’s just get some sleep, okay? Tomorrow, I’m off and the three of us can spend time together.”

That made her smile.

But, he wasn’t finished. “I’m sick of this, Gina. It’s a god-damned sewer out there, and cops like Rico and me are just pissing in the wind.”

“I know,” she said, kissing him on the neck. She had heard this “song” before.

“I want out.”

“That’s how you feel tonight,” she murmured. “Tomorrow, you’ll sing a different tune.”

She heard him chuckle. “Am I that predictable?” He turned his head and began to nibble on her ear.

“No, just dedicated. But, if getting out is what you really want… whatever makes you happy, Sonny.”

“You make me happy,” he whispered. He seemed desperate when he kissed her, as if looking for comfort, after a day full of disappointments. He pulled her against him. Lost in the moment, she almost missed the soft mewling sound, coming from the baby’s room across the hall.

“Oh, no! She’s awake!” 

Sonny rolled away with a laugh. “What else is new?” 

‘I’m sorry, honey. Let me check on her.”

“No, I’ll do it. She’s always asleep when I get home. I want to make sure she remembers I still live here.”

He slipped out of the room and returned a minute later, holding the baby close against his bare chest. “See, now she’s happy. She heard my voice and wanted to find out who this strange man was, talking to her mother.”

He sat on the edge of the bed and cradled Emily in the crook of his arm. They sat there silently for a moment, looking at their baby together.

“You know, I think she has your nose,” he said finally. “And I think I see the ‘Crockett’ chin.”

Gina slid closer and laid her cheek against his shoulder. “They tell me her features will change a hundred times over the years. For now, I’m content just to say she’s beautiful.”

He looked over at her and grinned. “Absolutely! But then, how could she miss? Just look at her parents!”

It was good to hear him joke a little. Obviously, Emily was the distraction he needed. Putting her hand on the baby’s tummy, she frowned. “She needs to be changed. Let me take her.”

“I can do it.”

“Oh, you can, can you?”

“Yeah. I’ve done this lots of times with Billy, remember?”

“So you’ve said.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“The last time you taped her diaper on, I went in to check on her and found it down around her knees.”

His eyebrows rose up in mock surprise. “Are you sure? That doesn’t sound like me.”

“Okay, hot shot. You know where the stuff is kept. And when you’ve finish cleaning her up, I’ll give you her bottle. After she’s had a few ounces, maybe she’ll be satisfied enough to give us four or five hours of uninterrupted sleep.”

“Looks like it’s you and me, sweetheart,” he told the baby as he headed back toward the nursery. “We’ll show her, won’t we? Yes, we will! Dad’s been around the block a few times, and he knows exactly what he’s doing.”

 

Chapter 20: Ricochet                                                                         Music: “This Corrosion” by Lambchop

October 12th, 1994: Little Havana
Sonny

Sonny slowed down and checked out the appointed meeting spot. It was late and the residential Cuban neighborhood was winding down for the night. He backed into an alleyway by a bodega and leaned against the front seat’s headrest.

The Solotzo case had been dogging him and Rico for months … a small-time dealer looking to move some merchandise and willing to pay handsomely for it. Sonny had wanted to wrap this up weeks ago, but the Castaneda investigation had proved to be a huge distraction. Tonight’s meet had been rescheduled three times and Solotzo was already hinting he was looking around for someone else.

Rico checked his watch. “He told me eleven thirty. Now it’s twelve fifteen. I don’t like it.”

“In some circles, people would say he is ‘fashionably late’,” Sonny mused, stifling a yawn.

“Either that, or we’ve been stood up.”

Sonny looked at his own watch. “We’ll give them another ten minutes and then we can pack it in. I want to get some shuteye anyway. It’s been a long week.”

“How’s Gina holding up with the protection detail?”

“She understands how things work. Besides, Jimmy loves kids. He’s like a substitute grandfather.”

Rico chuckled.

“I wanted to move Gina back to her aunt’s, but I’m not really comfortable with that either. This guy has a way of finding out the most personal things. What’s stopping him from finding out a relative’s address?”

“How about a safe house?”

Sonny let out a long sigh. “It might have to come to that, Rico.”

“So, maybe you should be in a safe house too.”

Sonny snorted. “I can’t catch this guy if I hide under the blankets and shiver. That’s not even an option.”

A car’s headlights turned in from the main highway and approached slowly. Rico’s eyes followed the beat-up van as it passed. It didn’t stop. “Funny. I’m sure that was him. Maybe he didn’t like what he saw.”

Sonny turned on his car’s headlights. 

“All they need is a little friendly encouragement, Rico. Kinda like putting the porch light on for company.” He looked over at his partner and grinned. 

Rico laughed. “Or maybe like attracting the moth to the flame. I like that image a lot better. I wanna singe those suckers, not invite ’em for dinner!”
He looked back out the windshield and saw the van coming from the other direction. Sonny opened his glove compartment and took out a second ammo clip. 

“On their way back for a little “look see”,” Sonny murmured. “Put on a nice face, now Rico. We don’t want to make them think they’re not welcome.” 

Rico sniffed. “What they see is what they get,” he muttered.

The van stopped. The driver was a big man, full beard, with sunglasses on, even though the sun was long gone. It was Ramon Solotzo himself. Better known as the crack dealer from hell. He sat in the van with the motor idling. He stared without saying a word, and Sonny felt his stomach muscles clench. 

“Damn,” he said softly. “He ain’t acting too friendly now, is he.”

“Where are his body guards? Moe Larry and Curly?” Rico asked.

Solotzo put his two fingers to his forehead in a mock salute. “Evenin’, gents,” he called out from the open window. But before Sonny could stick his head out to answer, the van’s side door slid open and they both saw the muzzle of a machine gun pointed in their direction.

“The Three Stooges!” Sonny shouted, ducking down below the dash, as a barrage of bullets cracked the windshield. “Guess that answers your question, Rico.”

Rico had his gun out already and had opened the door so he could roll out onto the ground. Sonny did the same from his side. He had a dumpster to hide behind. All that Rico had shielding him, were two garbage cans. 

“Get down!” Sonny was shouting over the deafening roar of gunfire, but he wasn’t sure Rico could hear him. The shooting stopped for a second. 

“Tubbs, get flat.”

“I’m not going to just lie here and get peppered full of lead. Come on, Sonny. Let’s take them.”

“What! Are you crazy?”

Another round of shots exploded around them and for the first time in his life, Sonny felt frozen with indecision. Panic stricken, he looked over at Rico and thought he saw disappointment in his partner’s eyes. He turned his attention back on the gunmen and began firing wildly.

Rico had gone around the back of the car and had joined him behind the dumpster. He was holding his face. “I…I think I’ve been hit,” he mumbled.

Sonny grabbed Rico’s shoulder. “What!” He cringed when he saw blood ooze through Rico’s fingers.

“It’s okay. Forget it Sonny. We’ve got bigger problems.”

A bullet spit into the dirt next to Sonny’s foot and they both pulled back further behind the dumpster.There was another pause in the firing.  Sonny could hear the men yelling back and forth in Spanish. He tried to slow his breathing and rack his brain for a solution. The only idea he could come up with, involved placing himself in the direct line of fire. He knew there wasn’t time to weigh the pros and cons. He ejected the used clip from his gun and slapped in another. Glancing quickly over at Rico, he nodded with his head toward the car, and rolled back toward the Testarossa. 

A splinter of flying glass bit into his neck as one of the bullets cracked the side window and another ricocheted off the ground and hit the wall of the bodega. With every muscle in his body tensed, he heaved himself up into the car and lay on the floor. Reaching over to the steering column, his hand closed around the car keys he had left in the ignition.

Let’s hope they didn’t hit the engine…

The alley where they had parked was a dead end and the only way out was blocked by a van full of killers. One way or the other, he’d be mowed down. But if he made it to the street, chances were, he could take a few of them out with him. Maybe then, at least Rico would have a chance.

Rico was firing again, as if to trying to cover him. Sonny sat up fast and turned the key in the ignition. The engine roared to life. Shifting quickly, he pushed the accelerator to the floor and the car burst forward, swerving in an arc just before impact with the van. Startled, the gunmen hesitated long enough for Sonny to aim and shoot. One of gunmen hit the ground, another screamed as he held his hands over his eyes. Blood began pouring down his face.

Sonny saw Solotzo’s pistol point right at him. There was no time to react. Another gun exploded from behind him and Solotzo’s head flew back. His body slumped against the driver’s door and his arm dangled out of the window. The gun fell from his hand to the street with a clatter. Rico ran to the side of the van and looked inside, checking for more shooters. 

“Thanks, man. That was close,” Sonny said, resting his forehead on the steering wheel.

“Solotzo and two of them in the van are dead, another guy, almost dead,” Rico said. He reached up to touch his cheek and winced.

Sonny bit his lip. “Are you alright?” 

“Yeah. I’ll live.”

They heard sirens in the distance and angry voices shouting from windows above them. Someone threw a bottle and it smashed harmlessly in the street.

“I think the “Neighborhood Watch” patrol is about to evict us, Rico. We better get in the car before they shower us with kindness.”

Two Metro Dade squad cars came careening around a corner and screeched to a halt, whirling gumballs casting eerie shadows off the bodega wall. Two patrolmen climbed out, their guns drawn and pointed at Sonny and Rico.

“Let’s go, you two. Come out with your hands on your heads. Come on, nice and slow, now.”

“We’re coming, don’t shoot,” Sonny shouted. He opened his door slowly.

“Yeah, we’re unarmed,” Rico added, making a point of leaving his gun on the dashboard.

The two cops patted them down and pulled their arms back to cuff them. It was an unspoken rule; whatever it took to maintain their covers, even if it meant suffering a little manhandling from their brothers in blue.

“Okay, get in the back while we call this in. And no funny stuff, or I’ll slap on leg irons, too!”

Sonny recognized Lenny Phillips from Metro, and he knew Lenny recognized him, too. “Ya don’t need to lay it on that thick, Len,” he muttered under his breath. 

“My heart bleeds, Crockett,” Phillips muttered back. “Now get in so I can begin writing my report.”

A small crowd had formed on the sidewalk across the street and some residents were cheering when they saw the two “dealers” being shoved into the patrol car.

“Say hello to the fans, Rico,” Sonny said with a grin. 

Rico tilted his head slightly as one of the onlookers made an obscene gesture toward them with his middle finger.

“Same to you buddy,” he muttered, as he slid in next to his partner.

 

Chapter 21: Twisting in the Wind
Sonny

He watched with concern as Rico wiped the blood from his face. The crowd had melted away, and Phillips had been nice enough to take off the cuffs.

 “I suppose I should be going to the emergency room. Although the last time I paid them a visit, they charged me two-hundred and fifty dollars for a Band Aid. It took me two months to get HR to get the charges off my credit card.”

“Here, let me see.” 

Sonny hands were still shaking as he tilted Rico’s head back to inspect the damage. Rico started to chuckle when he caught Sonny’s somber expression. “Well?” he asked. “Will I live?”

“You were lucky. A quarter of an inch more, and you would have kissed your ass goodbye.”

Rico put his hand on Sonny’s shoulder. “Hey, don’t look so worried, buddy. If you think this is bad, just look at the other guys.” He was trying to make light of it, but Sonny wouldn’t bite. Instead, he stared through the windshield and watched the ambulance pull away from the curb. The coroner’s wagon was already loading up the other three bodies.

“Len says he’ll drive us a couple of blocks out of Little Havana and his guys will deliver the car,” he commented to Rico. “When we get back, I want to fill out the report for Castillo and high tail it outta there before I get stuck explaining what happened to our backup.”

He glanced over at Rico. “I’m sorry, man” he said in a soft voice. 

Rico look back, and Sonny saw a spark of sympathy in his partner’s eyes. “Hey, it’s okay. Listen, from what I hear, you’ve been burning the candle at both ends for a few months now. When’s the last time you got a full night’s sleep, anyway?”

“It’s more than just a lack of sleep. I haven’t put it all together yet. But when I do, I’ll be sure to fill you in.”

“Any time, partner. You know I’ll be here.” Rico answered.

Phillips got back into the patrol car and started the ignition. 

“Okay, shall I give you guys the full treatment? Flashing lights and sirens? Or have you had enough excitement for one night?”

*******
Castillo’s office was dark. It was strange to imagine the Lieutenant wasn’t in there. Sometimes Sonny thought Castillo lived in his office, only going home every so often for a shower and a change of clothes. 

“I’ve had it,” he told Rico after dropping his hastily written report in the bin marked ‘Lt. Castillo’. “See you tomorrow.” He picked up the jacket he had draped on the back of his chair and began to walk toward the swing doors when a voice exploded from Castillo’s office. 

“Crockett!” 

Hell, he’s in there…

He signaled for Rico to get going. “This whole thing was my call,” he said. “The Lieutenant wants answers and there’s no point in both of us twisting in the wind.”

Looking relieved, Rico saluted Crockett and took off. 

Crockett poked his head into Castillo’s office. “Okay if I turn on the lights?”

“Yeah, go ahead.”

Castillo was stretched out, full length on the office couch, his right arm flung across his eyes and forehead. “We need to talk. Have a seat.”  His eyes still closed, Martin pointed to one of his office chairs and Sonny sat down with a sigh as he braced himself for the lecture he knew was coming.

“Crockett, how long have we known each other?”

Sonny looked over at Castillo with surprise. Not a usual way for Castillo to start handing out a reprimand. “Well, ten, no eleven years altogether, I guess.”

Castillo sat up, and swung his legs to the floor. Then he stood to face Crockett. 

Oh, boy! Here it comes! 

“I’ve seen a change in you over the last few months, a loss of focus. Why is that?”

Crockett wasn't expecting this. “I’m okay, Lieutenant. Just getting used to things at home, I guess.”

“Maybe taking on these new responsibilities has made you more cautious. Not a bad thing, considering your flair for breaking the rules.”

How could he have known ...

“Now wait a minute, Lieutenant. I might be a little rough around the edges these last few months, but I’m doing my job.”

“True. But with a wife and new baby, you may be thinking you can’t afford to take risks. If that’s true, it’s going to slow you down and affect your performance; and that affects everyone around you.”

Sonny knew that Castillo had a unit to run. If the Lieutenant sensed someone was a liability to the team, he’d be expected to do something about it. Sonny sensed he was about to have his wings clipped and he wasn’t sure if it upset him or not.

“Rico almost bought it tonight, and it was my fault.” 

Where was your back-up? We have procedures set in place for a reason, Crockett.”

“Yeah, there’s that. But breaking the rules was not the only problem.” Crockett stared over at Castillo. “Sure, I got us into a tricky situation that could have ended badly. But the real problem happened when Rico wanted me to help him take action, and I let him down.”

Castillo looked down at the floor. “What about Solotzo? Why the double cross?”

“I’m guessing he was tired of waiting for me to help him deliver the goods. Maybe he found someone cheaper. Get rid of me and move on. It’s happened before. These guys would whack their own grandmother if it guaranteed more of a profit.”

Sonny took in a deep breath. “To be honest, when the shooting started, I froze. That’s never happened to me before, and it scared me! If I’ve lost my edge, it’s over. Damn it, Marty! I almost got my partner killed. Maybe it’s time to put in for a transfer.”

“Metro called and filled me in. You were outnumbered and faced some pretty heavy firepower.”

“I’ve faced worse. The point is, that for one critical moment I couldn’t move.  I left Rico out there to fend for himself. That’s unforgivable in my book.”

“In the end, you worked things out. From what Metro told me, your actions saved you both. This time, you took the risk. It was a brave thing to do. Reckless, but brave.”

He could feel the emotion, building up inside. His eyes filled with tears. 

“You’re struggling with the guilt right now, Sonny. Cool off a little. Take a few days off and talk to Gina. We’ll discuss it when you get back.”

They looked at each other. 

“Thanks, Marty.”

“Before you go, tonight’s paperwork.”

“It’s in your box.”

“Good. Then, go home.”

“Yeah. Good night, Lieutenant.” 

Castillo nodded. 

Crockett began to walk toward the door when he paused. “The christening’s on Sunday, Marty”. 

“I know. Gina called. I’ll be there.”

“Okay, then. That’s good.” Sonny waited for a moment. He wanted to say more, but the words wouldn’t come.

“Don’t be so hard on yourself, Sonny.” Martin's eyes softened a little. “I wouldn’t want to take chances either if I had what you have.”

“You know, Marty, being happy never seemed to be in the cards for me; that is until Gina and I got back together. And then, Emily came into the picture.” He paused, as if deciding the best way to explain his feelings. “I’ve been through this fatherhood kick before. You see the great son I have and how I messed that up with my indifference. This time — well this baby, I guess she’s changed my life. Or maybe I’ve gotten my priorities straight for once.” 

He ran his hand across his face. The exhaustion was finally catching up to him. “I need to get away from the job and think in the real world for a change. And you’re right. Gina needs to be in on this.” He approached the office door and turned. “When I come up with a decision, you’ll be the first to know. I promise.” He tried to smile.

“Goodnight, Marty,” he said to the man who knew him so well.

“Get some rest, Crockett.” Martin answered as he lay back down on the hard leather couch.

 

Chapter 22:  Warrior Angel

October 16th, 1994: Kendall. Florida

Sonny and Gina

Sonny stood there watching from the bedroom door as Gina walked by, humming to herself. “Sonny, listen for the doorbell, will you? People should be getting here soon.

“Okay,” he answered, distracted by the shirt collar gripping his neck like a vise. After sitting in a hot church with an air conditioner that barely functioned, he was anxious to loosen up a little. He opened the top button on his dress shirt and felt instant relief. "Damn!” he muttered under his breath. “That’s worse than a hangman’s noose!”

Gina shook her head when she saw him yank the tie off. “I might have known that wouldn’t last.” He saw her carry guest towels into the bathroom and hearing Emily whimper, he slipped into her room.

“Shh, shh… come here you. What’s the matter?” he chuckled, picking the baby up into his arms. Gina was not happy when she caught sight of him. 

“Sonny, I told you before! You’re going to spoil her!”

“Come on, it’s not like holding her is going to warp her personality,” he grumbled as he carried her out into the family room. He sat on the couch and looked down at her. “Hey there,” he said with a smile. 

He never grew tired of looking at her. When she was first born, he would sit on the deck for hours, studying her tiny features, awestruck with this perfection in miniature. 

The screen door slammed. 

“That’s a picture I’d love to pin to the Credit Union Bulletin Board,” Rico said, laughing as came into the room. He sat down in a chair in front of Sonny.

“Yeah, where’s a camera when I need one” It was Stan’s booming voice coming from the hallway. 

Sonny thought about retreating back to safety of the baby’s room. 

“Knock it off, you two! You want the whole world to hear you? I have an image to maintain!”

“Right. So, here ya go, Dad!” 

Sonny looked up to see a sight that made him almost double over with laughter. Stan was wearing one of his loud Hawaiian shirts and light-colored pants that were stretched tightly across his large belly. A giant brown teddy bear was tucked under one arm while he struggled to balance a large box, gaily wrapped with pink paper and a white bow.

“Speaking of cameras, how about I catch a shot of this vision for the album, Gina?” 

Gina had come back into the room. She ignored Sonny and reached for the baby.  “She needs to be changed again. That’s why she was crying, Sonny. Not that I would expect you to figure that one out.”

He shot his wife a look that made her laugh. 

“Oh, that’s right! I keep forgetting what a pro you are!” she teased.  

Rico looked over at Crockett and grinned. “There’s a lot of good blackmail material here, Crockett. You’ll be paying us off for the rest of your life!”

Frowning at the sound of their muffled laughter, he watched Rico and Stan leave for the backyard, and turned in time to see Marty walking up the front steps. They greeted each other with a warm handshake.

“I wanted to thank you again for the honor, Sonny.”

“Gina and I had no trouble deciding on this one, Martin. You were the perfect choice.”

Martin looked pleased. 

“I’m glad we have this opportunity to talk alone, Marty. There’s something important I need to discuss with you.”

Castillo sat on the couch.

“We talked the other day about the importance of being focused when a job has to be done,” Sonny began. “And we talked about the responsibility of family and loyalty to the unit. I discussed this with Gina, and I thought long and hard about my choices. I called Jeff Benson over at the Academy. He’s been asking for a while if I would give a couple of pep talks to the rookies, and I put him off. Now, I want to explore my options.”

Crockett sat down next to Castillo and looked off into the distance. “I taught a class at the Academy a while back before I came to Vice. Transferring to that environment makes a lot of sense right now. I’ll still be involved in police work by sharing some of my experience with the new blood. Gina thinks it’s a great idea. She’s hoping I’ll finally get a chance to relax. That is, if I haven’t forgotten how, over the past twenty years.”

“I’ll be sorry to lose you, Sonny, but happy for you just the same. Knowing when to bow out is half the battle in this business. And the direction you chose is a good one.”

“It won’t be until the spring, though. I want to get used to the whole idea gradually and Jeff told me the new class won’t be starting for a few months.”

“Did you talk to Rico yet?”

“I’ve hinted around a little. I wanted to tell you first.  All he knows is I’m considering taking Jeff up on his offer. He didn’t seem surprised. Said he’d seen it coming.” Sonny gave him a rueful smile. “Guess I was the only one with the blinders on.”

“We can’t always see the obvious when it involves ourselves.” Castillo said. He stood up and offered his hand to Crockett. “I wish you all the luck, Sonny. But let me warn you. Watch what you teach those new recruits. If you inspire them with some of your unorthodox methods, Jeff will nail you to the wall.”

Sonny chuckled. “Yeah, this time I’ll take notes when I read the policy and procedure manual.” Sonny’s expression became serious. “There’s something  else I need to ask you.” He felt himself struggling to find the right words. “Just let’s say something should happen to me, you know, over the next few months or even after I leave OCB. I want to make sure that someone will look after my family. I want you to be that someone. Of course, if this is too much to ask, tell me now. I’ll understand.”

“Put your mind at rest, Sonny,” the Lieutenant said. “I take this role of being a godfather very seriously.”

They stood and shook hands. 

“That means a lot, Lieutenant. Thank you.”

Castillo put his hand on Sonny’s shoulder and smiled.  “There’s no need for thanks.  I’m the one who's grateful.” 

 

Gina

She stood in the kitchen doorway holding Emily in her arms and watching Sonny and Martin talk. She could tell it was a serious discussion. As usual, Martin’s expression was reserved. But Sonny’s was anxious. Whatever he was telling Martin, she knew he was having a hard time. 

The teaching position. It has to be that.

She knew how much Sonny loved and respected Martin. He insisted Martin had saved his life, by giving him back the job he loved and making him feel life was worth living again. Castillo’s opinion about this new position would be important to him.

She wasn’t having any illusions. She knew Sonny leaving OCB was going to be tough. For him, returning this second time, had been like riding in for a pit stop during the Grand Prix. They’d checked his engine, kicked the tires, filled up his tank, and sent him out there to win. Now, the race was over, and he would be on a different highway. This road wouldn’t put him in any danger. He’d be forced to slow down and enjoy the scenery for a change. The real challenge would be learning how exist without the excitement.  

She saw the two men stand and shake hands. Castillo’s other hand was on Sonny’s shoulder and he was smiling. A rare sight. She sensed Castillo was showing his support. That would make all the difference to her husband.

Sonny left the family room and headed out onto the deck where some of the guests had already gathered. He picked up a champagne bottle from a cooler and offered to fill empty glasses while pausing from time to time to catch up with old friends and relatives.

Martin was behind him until he reached the sliding doors to the deck, then held back a moment. He was standing close to her. 

“Hi, Lieutenant. You did a great job today. Thank you for accepting our request.”

“I was honored, Gina. Now, I feel like I’m part of the family. ”

She gave him a warm smile. “You’ll always be part of the family, Martin.” 

A timer went off in the kitchen. 

“Uh, oh. Here, do me a favor and hold Emily for me, will you? I don’t want the rolls to burn.”  

He took the baby from her without answering. It surprised her to see how comfortable he seemed to be, almost as if he had been holding babies all his life. 

“She looks so great in your arms,” she told him. She was aware that one of Martin’s deepest regrets was never having a family of his own. 

He looked up at her. “She’s beautiful, Gina.” He outlined the child’s delicate face with his finger. Then he kissed her on the forehead.

Gina felt her eyes well up with tears. She had never seen this tender side of him. It touched her, but she also found it reassuring. Bringing a child into this world of uncertainty had always frightened her a little. Now, she felt comforted, knowing no matter what the future might bring, Emily would always be safe in the arms of her warrior angel.

 

Chapter 23: To Watch a Man Die

February 1995: Pedrosa’s Yacht: ‘La Morena’
Pedrosa

Pedrosa was consumed with rage. First, the dead boy. And then, Castaneda, arrested and brought to trial. Fortunately, the presiding judge was easily swayed. Alonzo Hernandez had a family to protect and it took only one phone call to his Honor to make sure Pedrosa got the decision he wanted. The surveillance tape was dismissed, and Castaneda got off for insufficient evidence. 

But the police had listened to the tape, and this was a serious setback. Now Crockett knew Pedrosa was keeping tabs on him . Pedrosa had lost the element of surprise.

“I am here, Carlos.” Castaneda said. The old man stood in front of Pedrosa’s desk. It had been a while since they talked. Things had not been handled well, but Pedrosa did not blame his old friend. He stood to greet him.

“I called in a few markers and managed to keep you out of jail,” he said. “But now they’ve connected you to me and I must turn to someone else. As far as I’m concerned, you can go back to your business and live in peace.”

Hector looked uneasy. “I am sorry it turned out this way. But I thank God the judge saw the wisdom of accepting the evidence in our favor.”  No doubt Castaneda considered himself lucky he was being allowed to bow out gracefully. He offered his hand to Pedrosa “If you need me to help you in any other way, please do not hesitate to ask.”

Pedrosa dismissed him with a wave. “Go home to your little boys. They need you now. I don’t.”

“Don’t judge me harshly. I’m still a loyal soldier.”

“You may still be of use, I don’t deny it. But right now, you are a liability. If you want to help me, keep your ear to the ground. If you hear the police so much as belch, I want to be told. Can you handle that, Hector?”

Castaneda’s face darkened with anger. “You insult me, Carlos. Don’t forget, I was the one who told you about Crockett helping the Santiago boy.”

“So now we are even, my friend.”

Hector offered his hand again. This time, Pedrosa accepted it. 

“Good luck, Carlos. I hope you are able to come back and succeed in Miami.  And now that I’ve mentioned it, I would like to offer some advice, for old-time’s sake.”

“Of course. Your counsel is always appreciated.”

“Be careful of Martin Castillo. The man thinks like a jungle warrior and he is incorruptible. I know Crockett is your target, but your most dangerous enemy in Miami is the leader of OCB.”

Pedrosa studied him for a moment. “Perhaps I can deal with them both.”

“Then you you’re taking on a difficult task, Señor. Again, if I can help you, I will be close by. You have my friendship. Forever.”

It was a pretty speech, but Pedrosa was not fooled. The pride that had motivated Castaneda in the past was long gone. Now fear had taken its place.

“Goodbye, Hector,” he said. He felt relieved to see the old man go. 

He sat down in the large leather chair behind his desk and leaned back with a sigh.

“You wanted to see me, Carlos?”

Pedrosa sat up with a start. Roberto Ortíz had entered the room so quietly, it almost seemed as if he had appeared out of thin air. Recovering quickly, Carlos nodded. 

“Have a seat.” He waited for Roberto to settle, before he began. “So, Hector is going back to pimping,” he said. “You can take his place for now. If I like what I see, maybe you’ll step into his shoes.”

Pedrosa knew Roberto was ambitious. Castaneda was competition and Ortíz would welcome the opportunity to take over. The young man was doing his best not to appear delighted at this turn of events. “Fortunately, you kept Senor Castaneda out of prison,” he said to Pedrosa.

“Yes. And now, he’ll enjoy a much-deserved retirement.”

Pedrosa studied his young protégé for a moment. “So, you and Julián. What have you planned so far?”

“Julián and I are ready.”

Pedrosa was pleased. “Make yourself a drink and tell me.”

He watched Roberto avoid the cut glass decanter of brandy and reach for the carafe of cold water instead. 

Wise choice. Keep a clear head and you’ll go far. 

“I sent out feelers into the community,” Roberto began. “The local dealers think I am from the Columbian cartel, ready to do business. We’re spreading a rumor. I’m anxious to unload a large shipment of cocaine. I’ve made it clear I need someone to act as a go-between and oversee transportation. I’m bound to hear from Mr. Burnett.” 

He glanced over at Pedrosa, waiting for a reaction.

“You are sure there’s no way to link us together?” the Columbian asked. 

“I’ve taken every precaution.”

Pedrosa looked thoughtful. “Make the deal look as attractive as possible. We must move fast. Sources tell me Crockett is planning to leave his position with Vice soon and he may not want to become involved in a lengthy investigation.”

“I am a potential threat to his precious city. Crockett will never let it pass. All I have to do is set up the meet and I know he’ll want to be in on the arrest.”

“Of course, once the authorities hear about your connections to the cartel, they’ll be circulating your biography to every cop in the city.”

“I’m counting on it. It exaggerates my importance and makes my story more believable.”

Pedrosa poured himself more brandy and sipped it slowly as he carefully considered all the possibilities. “Let me know when Crockett reaches out. Then meet with him, establish trust. And when you set up the time for the exchange, insist he comes alone.”

Ortíz nodded.

“Use the van and tell him to meet you in the Warehouse District. The location is ideal. The highway is nearby, and the neighborhood is crisscrossed with alleyways.”

“Manuel will drive, and I’ll bring Filipe. How do you want us to do it?”

“You’ll signal me after he’s been restrained. Don’t do anything else. I’ll take it from there. Make sure you wait for me. Do you understand?”

Roberto looked startled. “I thought you wanted us to kill him.”

“No. I will do the killing.”

Roberto looked uneasy. “Of course, Senor. I forgot.”

Carlos Pedrosa saw his face; sensed the hesitancy. Roberto must have heard the stories about his days in Columbia as part of the elite Death Squad.  And those stories were true. 

For him killing was an art. Holding a man’s life in your hands was the ultimate power. Hearing him beg for mercy made you feel like a god. Some of his men would talk about his cruelty with respect.  Others would try to hide the fear in their eyes. But sheltered men like Ortiz didn’t want to remember the sacrifices Pedrosa and his fellow soldiers had made. Sheltered men like Ortiz came from a different world; a world that would never understand a man like Pedrosa, and his need to cause pain, or the rush of pleasure he felt when he watched a  man die. 

If Ortiz wanted power,  he would have to accept some of the old customs. Pedrosa was Roberto’s mentor, and he knew he’d be the one to show him the way. 
 

Edited September 2, 2019 by mjcmmv

[Robbie C.]

Nice job as always!

[mjcmmv]

14 minutes ago, Robbie C. said:

Nice job as always!

Thanks so much!

[vicegirl85]

4 hours ago, mjcmmv said:

She knew it wasn’t smart coming to the trial, but she wanted to offer support in some small way.

Yes, as much as I love Gina, and as much as I like Gina and Sonny together, this was really a dumb move on her part.

4 hours ago, mjcmmv said:

"You must see his side, Gina. Castaneda works for Pedrosa. Pedrosa could use you to stop Crockett from testifying against his man. Worse yet, he might try to get back at Sonny by harming you or the baby.”

Listen to Trudy, girlfriend!

4 hours ago, mjcmmv said:

“What did Castillo think?”

“He wasn’t surprised. He knew the case was weak. He warned me before hand, but I didn’t listen.”

Castillo always knows!

4 hours ago, mjcmmv said:

His eyebrows rose up in mock surprise. “Are you sure? That doesn’t sound like me.”

LOL!

4 hours ago, mjcmmv said:

Sheltered men like Ortiz came from a different world; a world that would never understand a man like Pedrosa, and his need to cause pain, or the rush of pleasure he felt when he watched a  man die. 

4 hours ago, mjcmmv said:

“Be careful of Martin Castillo. The man thinks like a jungle warrior and he is incorruptible. I know Crockett is your target, but your most dangerous enemy in Miami is the leader of OCB.”

Somehow these quotes got out of order, but they are sending shivers up my spine!

Edited August 19, 2019 by vicegirl85

[mjcmmv]

1 minute ago, vicegirl85 said:

Yes, as much as I love Gina, and as much as I like Gina and Sonny together, this was really a dumb move on her part.

 

Listen to Trudy, girlfriend!

 

 

 

LOL! Someone else I know and respect told me he didn't think Gina would be this stupid. Obviously, I didn't listen! 

[mjcmmv]

4 minutes ago, vicegirl85 said:

 

Somehow these quotes got out of order, but they are sending shivers up my spine!

I had help from a really good writer, with this part. And yet, it took me ages to write.

Thanks. It makes me shiver, too! 

[vicegirl85]

Well, Gina could be quite stubborn and convinced she had things under control, when she didn't.  So from that standpoint, it's believable to me.

[mjcmmv]

1 minute ago, vicegirl85 said:

Well, Gina could be quite stubborn and convinced she had things under control, when she didn't.  So from that standpoint, it's believable to me.

Yeah, I kept thinking of how she insisted she could handle Ramirez in "Give a Little, Take a Little". Not to mention Frank Mosca in "Blood and Roses". She didn't always think with her head! 

[vicegirl85]

Exactly!  You'd hope that after the amount of time that had passed she would have learned, but sadly in this case she hadn't!

[Robbie C.]

It all depends on how you assume the characters changed during the period after Costa Morada. Lots of time there to learn. Or not. My Gina found a life outside OCB. MJ's stayed with OCB. Same person, two very different paths.

[vicegirl85]

Oh yes!  Most definitely.

[mjcmmv]

15 minutes ago, Robbie C. said:

It all depends on how you assume the characters changed during the period after Costa Morada. Lots of time there to learn. Or not. My Gina found a life outside OCB. MJ's stayed with OCB. Same person, two very different paths.

That's true. I kept her in that little cocoon. Maybe I didn't let her evolve. But, it's hard to let go. 

[vicegirl85]

I do think her passion and stubbornness was a real part of her personality, so no worries!

[Robbie C.]

2 minutes ago, mjcmmv said:

That's true. I kept her in that little cocoon. Maybe I didn't let her evolve. But, it's hard to let go. 

If she didn't have to, she likely wouldn't. I assumed the departure of Rico and Sonny would lead to issues within the office, lowered morale and such. Castillo can power through most of that, but even Stan was looking to leave before the Task Force formed. Trudy (obviously) had her own unspoken reasons for staying. And Gina found a new calling. Your Gina soldiered on because OCB wasn't as shaken in your world (I think) as mine was.

[mjcmmv]

2 minutes ago, Robbie C. said:

 

Your Gina soldiered on because OCB wasn't as shaken in your world (I think) as mine was.

Well, in my world, she was waiting for Sonny to come back.

[Robbie C.]

That, too, obviously.

[mjcmmv]

35 minutes ago, Robbie C. said:

If she didn't have to, she likely wouldn't. I assumed the departure of Rico and Sonny would lead to issues within the office, lowered morale and such. Castillo can power through most of that, but even Stan was looking to leave before the Task Force formed. Trudy (obviously) had her own unspoken reasons for staying. And Gina found a new calling. Your Gina soldiered on because OCB wasn't as shaken in your world (I think) as mine was.

The beauty of our two Fan Fictions is that we've been able to explore two different scenarios.

And folks can pick the one that satisfies them the most.

I don't have a Michael Mann or an NBC executive telling me how it should go. I make the decisions. Can't get any better than that!

[sdiegolo78]

On 8/19/2019 at 1:11 AM, vicegirl85 said:

Well, Gina could be quite stubborn and convinced she had things under control, when she didn't.  So from that standpoint, it's believable to me.

Yes, that's how her character was portrayed in the canon story. Just remember 'give a little, take a little' and 'Blood and roses' episodes.