Chapter 24

McCoy turned from the bookshelf as Carmichael came into his office.

"Briscoe and Green are on their way to Chicago with the warrants. Everything went well."

He slipped a volume back into its slot and returned to his desk. "It should be a quick trip for them. I spoke with Compton. If we fax copies of the signed warrants to him he said he will have everyone picked up and waiting for the detectives when they arrive."

"I'll take care of that," Carmichael assured him.

"If everything goes smoothly we should be able to start questioning this afternoon. Green is going to call from the airport so we can meet at the precinct."

"I'll try to leave my afternoon open. Are we going to let Calea know?"

McCoy shrugged. "She doesn't want to. I already asked."

Carmichael took a seat on the sofa. "I'm not surprised. She's having a hard time with it all."

Leaning back in his chair he said, "You must have talked on Saturday. I spoke with her yesterday and she said you had gone running."

"Yes, we did. And thanks, by the way."

He gave her a puzzled look. "For what?"

With a half-smile she answered, "I know you put a bug in Green's ear. After what we put him through he may not want to thank you, but it was exactly what Calea and I needed. It was a nice thought."

"You're welcome, although I was a little concerned when she told me you had gone to dinner. That isn't something I would've suggested considering what happened last Monday."

"The two officers assigned to Calea and the one assigned to me were there as well, not to mention Detective Green. No one could've gotten close to us if they had tried."

"Hopefully the need for all the caution will be over soon." He carefully examined the pencil in his hand. "Sounds like the two of you had a chance to talk."

Noting the subtle hint, Carmichael took it. "She feels like she's betraying her friends."

McCoy raised his eyebrows slightly. "I can sympathize. I've been in a similar situation."

"I don't think anything I said was very helpful. She seemed pretty depressed all evening."

With a dry smile he said, "Well, I don't think she wants to hear anything from me right now except that the case is over and her client is cleared."

"Let's hope that happens soon," Carmichael declared on the way to the door. "This whole thing is really getting on my nerves. Call me when you hear from Ed."

***Briscoe met the two D.A.'s at the door as soon as they walked in.

"Counselors, how nice to see you. We have all four suspects in separate rooms with their respective attorneys. It was a lovely plane ride back with them all," he quipped as he led the way across the room to where Green and Van Buren were chatting with another man. "Before you go in there's someone you should meet." He stopped beside the three. "Abbie Carmichael, Jack McCoy, this is Drew Compton. He flew back with us from Chicago."

As Compton took Carmichael's outstretched hand she said, "It's so nice to meet you. I've heard a lot about you."

"Uh-oh. I was hoping no one here knew anything about me," he responded with a smile.

McCoy was clearly surprised as he held out his hand. "I wasn't expecting you but it's good to finally meet you in person."

"You too, Jack. I wish it were under different circumstances, though. Is there somewhere we can talk for a minute?" Noticing the exchanged glances between Van Buren and the detectives he added, "There are some legal issues we need to get out of the way."

"You can use one of the offices," Van Buren offered, indicating an unoccupied room.

When the three attorneys had filed in McCoy closed the door. "What can we do for you?"

Compton leaned against the cluttered desk. "The reason I'm here concerns Calea. We picked up Michael Lockhardt, Kevin Ryan, and Frank Tyler pretty quickly this morning. Stan Greenberg wasn't quite as easy to find, but I had a little time to spend talking with all of them before your detectives showed up." He shook his head slowly. "Or rather, I had a little time to listen to all of them rant and rave before your detectives showed up. Of course, none of them admits to anything, but one thing came through loud and clear: Frank Tyler claims a confidential file was taken from him and he's convinced Calea had something to do with it. Needless to say it's the same file that all the incriminating evidence is in. His attorney is already claiming it can't be used and that they intend to file charges against her. I have people going through his office with a fine-tooth comb, but my guess is we aren't going to find anything. Tyler is too sharp for that. Wherever the file you have came from, I doubt it was just lying around his office. I don't have to tell you that how it came into your hands could be the difference in whether or not you get to use it. Do you have any idea where Calea got it?"

"She said it was given to her but she wouldn't say by whom. I assumed it was someone she used to work with who is still in Tyler's office," McCoy answered. "What about his computer files?"

"My people were going through those when I left. I called in when I got here and so far they haven't turned up anything useful. Why?"

"She also brought back computer files of Tyler's. Even though we're only using what's in the other file for now, the computer files contain the most evidence against the other three partners. And there's a lot more on Tyler in them as well."

Compton looked thoughtful. "When Calea was in Chicago I had Tyler watched but he was in his office all day. I didn't have anyone on his home. He still lives in the same house as when he and Calea were married. Do you think she could've taken the evidence from there?"

McCoy looked questioningly at Carmichael who said, "She never said anything at all to me about her trip there."

Swearing under his breath, McCoy turned away from the other two. He could feel the case against Tyler slipping through his fingers. After a few seconds he faced Compton again. "I asked Calea specifically where she got the files. She said someone who wished to remain anonymous gave them to her. If she had taken them on her own I think she would've just evaded the question." He shrugged. "It really doesn't matter anyway. I intend to tell Tyler and his attorney that the information came into our hands anonymously. Who gave it to us is none of their business. We'll get another warrant for his house and personal computer and see what turns up."

Compton nodded. "The sooner the better. Fax it to my office and I'll have it taken care of right away."

"I'll go pay Judge Wallace another visit," Carmichael volunteered.

As she left the office McCoy and Compton followed more slowly.

"If we can hold on to our evidence, Lockhardt, Ryan, and Greenberg will be charged within your jurisdiction. I think you should be included when we question them and I'm sure you have some questions of your own," McCoy said as he led the way toward the interrogation rooms.

"That I do."

"You're welcome to sit in on Tyler also. Since you know him, anything helpful you can contribute would be appreciated."

"I think it would be better if I skipped his interview, although I'm willing to listen in and give you any observations afterwards," Compton offered. "You know, besides their own legal expertise, all four have some of the best attorneys in Chicago representing them. With your evidence in question it's unlikely we're going to get anything from any of them."

"As far as I'm concerned our evidence is admissible until I hear a judge say it isn't and I plan on proceeding accordingly. Even if they don't talk today, when I tell them what we have it will give them something to think about. Hopefully, something else will turn up in the searches to back up the information that's in the file Calea gave us. I think we can get Tyler held without bail on what we already have and I can keep the other three in town for the next few days. By then maybe someone will be ready to talk."

"I was hoping you would see it that way," Compton said with a quick smile. "Before we go in I want to call my office and let my associate know to expect the warrant for Tyler's home so he can have someone standing by for the search. I’m sure you would like to have something else to hit Tyler with before the end of the day."

***Compton closed the interrogation room door behind him after McCoy, Briscoe, and Green had filed out.

"Three for three," he said.

Briscoe sighed in frustration. "Can't they say anything but, 'Your evidence is inadmissible'?"

"Even though the partners didn't talk on the plane, their attorneys did some huddling. It's obvious they're all sticking together," Compton noted.

"Nothing we didn't expect," McCoy commented.

Van Buren had been observing through the one-way glass and came to join them. "Abbie called a few minutes ago. She has the signed warrant for Tyler's home and was faxing it to the Chicago D.A.'s office as we spoke."

"Then the search should be under way within the next half-hour. My associate is going to call me here as soon as they have something," Compton informed them.

McCoy nodded. "I guess it's time to hear what Tyler has to say, if anything." He looked at the detectives. "I'd like to speak with him and his attorney alone first. Since he has the most to lose I really don't think he's going to be any more forthcoming than the others anyway."

Tyler and a thin man with silver wire-frame glasses looked up as McCoy entered the room and pulled a chair up to the table. The word 'smoldering' came to McCoy's mind when his and Tyler's eyes met. But Tyler was a study in control with his hands folded calmly on the table in front of him. McCoy leaned back and relaxed in the chair, a trick he had learned long ago to give the appearance of confidence. It also served well to hide what he was really feeling at seeing Tyler again.

"I'm E.A.D.A. Jack McCoy."

The representing attorney handed him a business card. "Jerome Parker, Mr. McCoy."

McCoy nodded to him. "Circumstances have changed somewhat from out last meeting, Mr. Tyler," he commented while studying the card.

"Yes, they have," Tyler agreed. "I find that unfortunate."

"The evidence you have against my client was obtained illegally," Parker interjected. "It will be excluded."

"Do you have any proof to back up your claim?" McCoy asked.

"The information in question was obtained from Mr. Tyler's residence. Only two other people had possible access to it: the current Mrs. Tyler and their housekeeper. Neither of them had any reason to give it to you. But there is one person who had the opportunity and possibly the means to take it without his knowledge."

"And that person would be?"

"Mr. Tyler's ex-wife." Parker leaned forward with a conspiratorial smile. "You know, the attorney who's been working out of your office with you on the Fairchild case."

"What makes you think she had the means and opportunity?"

Parker raised his eyebrows. "So you're admitting Calea Tyler supplied you with your so-called evidence?"

McCoy looked squarely at Tyler. "She goes by 'Morgan' now and I'm not admitting anything. I have no intention of revealing my source to you." He turned his attention back to Parker. "I'm just curious as to how you came to your conclusions."

"We already know she purchased a round-trip airline ticket to Chicago last week. She was only there for one day, after which my client became aware of the missing file. Mr. Tyler lives in the same home he shared with her when they were married and he never had the locks changed after their divorce. It's entirely possible she still has a key and simply let herself in while my client and his wife were out."

"That's an interesting theory," McCoy admitted. "But since you can't prove it and since I won't confirm she's the one who gave me the file, that's all it is - a theory. The fact remains that the information in my possession contains evidence of your client's involvement in the murder of Evan Carpelli among other things, and I intend to prosecute him to the extent of his involvement."

"Exactly how do you propose Mr. Tyler committed this murder when witnesses will confirm that he was over 800 miles away at the time it happened?"

"I didn't say he pulled the trigger. But he was instrumental in pairing Carpelli up with the person or persons who are responsible for doing so. If he wants to give us names we would be willing to work out a plea in exchange for his testimony. His best bet is to cooperate now before we know what the search of his files reveals."

Parker shook his head, smiling. "You can't be serious. Even if you could get the file you have admitted into evidence, the most my client is guilty of in this matter is giving investment advice. He's certainly not responsible for the actions of those who chose to invest with Mr. Carpelli."

"He knows who's responsible for the murder and unless he gives us that information we will prosecute him on conspiracy charges." McCoy looked at Tyler. "Then there's the matter of his involvement with Seth Harrison and organized crime. Of course, that isn't my jurisdiction. The Chicago D.A. is next in line for the file I have."

"The information you have is worthless," Parker said matter-of-factly. "You can expect our motion to have it excluded on your desk by the end of the day. And once it is anything your search of Mr. Tyler's office files might reveal will be excluded as well. Nothing you have will be used against my client or his former partners in this jurisdiction or any other."

"Actually, we don't really expect the search of Mr. Tyler's office to reveal much. But we are very interested in his personal files." McCoy watched Tyler carefully. "As we speak, a search warrant is being executed for his home as well."

Parker opened his mouth but it was Tyler who answered. "You won't find anything there. The only thing you have is one questionably obtained file. Any way you look at it that evidence will never be used."

"Just because you hope to get the evidence excluded doesn't make you any less guilty. And you can bet I will prove it," McCoy stated convincingly.

Tyler stared at McCoy intently. "Off the record?" he asked.

Parker sat forward. "Frank..."

"Off the record," McCoy quickly agreed.

Despite the anxious look from his attorney, Tyler said, "Calea is as involved in this as any of us. When she left the firm she had evidence against Seth Harrison before the rest of us knew anything about him, but accepted payment for her silence. And you don't have to take my word for it. Check with the other partners. You can't use anything she gave you against us without incriminating her."

McCoy started to tell Tyler he already knew about the money and what Morgan had told him about it. But he decided it was too early in the game to reveal his hand.

"Considering the information I have came to me anonymously, what you've just told me is completely irrelevant." He studied Tyler briefly. "But while we're off the record, and since you brought up your ex-wife, there is something I'd like to discuss with you. Although I'm sure you know nothing about it, Calea has received some threats regarding this case and one actual attempt to do her harm. Her client’s wife was harmed. Since the reason for those threats is now moot, there isn't any point in whoever is making them to continue doing so. I'd like to see them stop."

"Are you accusing my client of trying to intimidate someone?" Parker asked incredulously.

Tyler's eyes were locked with McCoy's as they both ignored him.

"Sounds like something personal," Tyler noted with a slight smile.

McCoy shrugged. "It's more a matter of economics. I've had several men tied up with round-the-clock protection for over a week. Their time would be better spent elsewhere."

Tyler's smile widened. "If I could help you I would. I'd hate to see anything happen to someone I care about. But as you said, I don't know anything about it."

With a slow nod McCoy told him, "Just so we understand each other, if the threats don't stop or if she or any of the Fairchilds are harmed, I will find a way to pin that on you as well."

Parker leaned forward, slightly between Tyler and McCoy. "Are you threatening my client?"

Finally looking away from Tyler, McCoy addressed him. "Certainly not. After all, this part of our conversation is off the record." Standing up, he continued, "On the record, your client will be held over for the grand jury which will be convened tomorrow morning. In the mean time, he'll be a guest of the county." Pausing at the door and looking from one to the other he added, "If you have anything to say about Carpelli’s murder, give me a call."

As he opened the door, Briscoe and Green entered the room to take Tyler to a holding cell. McCoy stood beside Van Buren and Compton at the window.

Noticing Compton's expression he asked, "Counselor? Is something wrong?"

Compton sounded as angry as he looked. "That S.O.B. How could he even suggest Calea would take a pay-off?"

McCoy rubbed his neck distractedly. "Actually, a rather large sum of money did change hands." At Compton's disbelieving look he added, "It's complicated. How long do you intend to stay in New York?"

"I'm booked on a flight back later this evening."

"Since it looks like we're finished here, why don't you come to my office with me? We can talk on the way."

With a slow nod Compton agreed. "All right."

On their way out McCoy stopped at a desk and picked up the phone, dialing a number from memory.

"Law office."

"Melissa, this is Jack McCoy. May I speak to Calea?"

"Just a moment, Mr. McCoy."

After a brief pause Morgan's voice came over the line. "Jack, what can I help you with?"

"I need to talk with you. Can you meet me at my office?"

"When?"

"As soon as possible. How long will it take you to get there?"

There was a moment of silence before Morgan answered, "I can probably be there in about thirty minutes or so."

"All right. I'm at the 27th now. I'll meet you there."

As they continued to the door Compton gave McCoy a sideways look. "You didn't tell her I was here."

McCoy smiled at him. "Maybe her surprise at seeing you will keep her from biting my head off."

***Compton was sitting at the far end of the leather sofa when Morgan appeared at the open door of McCoy's office. She did a double take when she saw him and her face lit up.

"Drew!"

He smiled and stood up as she closed the gap between them to give him a hug.

"Hi, Pe..." Compton caught himself. "...Calea," he finished.

"What a surprise," she exclaimed, standing back to look at him. A small frown crossed her face as she studied his eyes. She glanced at McCoy as he sat behind his desk and took a half-step back from Compton, folding her arms behind her.

"Why do I get the feeling I need to sit down before I ask you why you're here?"

Exchanging a look with McCoy, Compton resumed his seat. Morgan sat at the other end of the sofa and regarded McCoy warily.

"We need to know where you got the evidence on Tyler and the others," McCoy said.

Morgan let out a quick breath. "Surely you didn't have me come all this way to ask me a question you know I'm not going to answer."

"Can you at least assure me the information was given to you, and that you didn't just take it?" he asked pointedly.

Crossing her arms she replied, "And I believe I answered that question the first time you asked me. Do you want to tell me what's going on or do I have to guess?"

"Frank Tyler claims the file I have was taken from his home and he's convinced you took it. He knows you were in Chicago last week and says the locks on his house haven't been changed since your divorce. He also knows you've been working with us. His theory is you entered the house with a key you still have and stole the file while he and his wife were out. And I can guarantee his attorney is going to present it as something sanctioned by this office. They're filing a motion to have the evidence excluded on that basis, even though I didn't tell them how the file came into my hands."

Looking at Compton, Morgan asked, "Who's representing him?"

"Jerry Parker."

Morgan nodded. "I guess Frank isn't taking any chances." Glancing from him to McCoy she asked, "What has the search warrant yielded?"

"Nothing yet," Compton answered. "So far the office files are clean. Jack ordered another warrant for Frank's house after he and I talked. My people tell me it looks like some of his home computer files were recently deleted and they're searching to see if they're still in the system somewhere. Otherwise, they've found nothing."

"We're holding Tyler based on the evidence we have now. If it gets excluded tomorrow he'll be home in time for dinner, as will the three partners," McCoy pointed out. "If something turns up in the searches we can try to do an end-run investigation and find a way to have everything admitted as inevitable discovery. But unless we can do that before tomorrow, I think we'll lose what we have unless you're willing to disclose your source."

"That's out of the question. I gave my word," Morgan stated flatly. She chewed her lip thoughtfully. "Maybe you should reveal your source. Admitting you got the file from me, with the stipulation that I got it from someone else, would mean Parker would have to request that I appear so the judge could question me directly. I can make myself scarce for at least a day. That could buy you some time."

"Even if we did that there's something else," McCoy admitted hesitantly. "Tyler is threatening to use the money you were given to prove you knew about Harrison and kept silent. He also said the other partners will back up his story." Seeing Morgan's quick glance at Compton, McCoy added, "He heard what Tyler had to say. I explained everything you told me about the money to him on the way over here."

"If Frank admitted to you that he and the others knew about Harrison when I left, then I don't see the problem."

McCoy shook his head. "That part of the conversation was off the record."

Morgan closed her eyes for a second and then leaned her elbow on the armrest of the sofa, propping up her head. "So if you get the evidence I gave you in, they name me as a co-conspirator. I would have to testify against them in order for the evidence to be used, which means I could lose my license at the very least, and possibly face charges myself."

"You can't really believe I would prosecute you," Compton said disbelievingly.

Morgan turned to him. "Prosecutorial discretion aside Drew, with two judges and a city official involved the media is going to have a field day. Frank and the others are going to make sure they get in their two cents worth. I know at least one D.A. in your office who would be happy to take the responsibility of prosecuting me off your hands. The bottom line is it's their word against mine, and in that toss up, guess who loses?"

"Then to get the evidence in without that happening we need to even the odds," McCoy commented. "If the other three don't back up Tyler's story then it's only his word against yours. Tyler is the one who convinced them to pay you and of the reason why. We need to convince them there was another reason."

Morgan shook her head. "They've believed for the last four years that they paid me off. They aren't going to change their minds now, especially if doing so would result in evidence against them becoming admissible."

"They might if separating themselves from Tyler would benefit them. Compared to what Tyler's been doing their involvement with Harrison was minimal. I could offer to take their cooperation into consideration," Compton suggested.

Glancing at him Morgan said, "That's a nice gesture. But I know how persuasive Frank can be. They believed him then and they'll stand behind him now."

"So we need to show them that Tyler was, and is, capable of lying to them," McCoy decided. "You told me Tyler already knew the other partners wanted to accept Harrison as a client before it was put to a vote. Maybe he was so interested in how everyone was going to vote because he had a bigger stake in the deal. Is it possible Harrison approached him first? If we can prove he knew about Harrison's business practices all along, the others might feel like they were set up. That could cast some doubt on other things Tyler told them. Can you remember anything he said or did that would indicate he brought Harrison to the rest of you?"

"If they had a prior relationship Frank kept it quiet. He gave no indication that he knew anything about Harrison when we were first approached. And Harrison claimed he had chosen us strictly on the firm's reputation."

McCoy interlaced his fingers behind his head, leaning back in his chair. "We could tell the others what you thought the money was for. Maybe that will be enough. How did they feel about the affair he was having with his secretary?"

With a shrug Morgan answered, "I don't think they had any prior knowledge of it."

"The fact that he eventually married the woman would certainly lend credibility to your story."

Morgan sighed. "If I had used it in our divorce I might stand a chance of persuading them. But I didn't. Frank's version about the money sounds more plausible, even to me."

"Can you think of anything he might have said or done that would make the others take a hard look at what he told them?" McCoy asked.

"No," Morgan responded quietly.

McCoy sighed. He had run out of arguments and suggestions.

Compton stood up. "If you will excuse us Jack, I would like to have a word with Calea, alone. Is there somewhere we could talk in private?"

With a glance at Morgan, McCoy answered, "Of course. You can use one of the conference rooms down the hall. I'm sure you can find one that's empty."

If Compton's request struck McCoy's curiosity, Morgan's reaction to it did even more so. She sat looking up at Compton defiantly, and for a moment it appeared that she was going to refuse to accompany him. But as Compton stood waiting, she finally got up and they walked out together.

Crossing his arms, McCoy stared at his desk. He wondered what Compton wanted to discuss with her. He was sure it was related to the case. After a few moments consideration he picked up a file from his desk and opened it. He wanted to at least appear busy when the other two returned.

He didn't have to wait long. Morgan was two steps ahead of Compton as they approached the door and he could tell that she was angry before she even came in. She resumed her seat on the sofa, staring at the floor as Compton walked in and did the same.

Looking from one to the other, McCoy tried to decide how to continue their previous conversation.

Morgan saved him the trouble, looking at him with flashing eyes. "Do whatever is necessary to get the evidence you have admitted. If that means you have to name me as your source, then do it. I'll testify against all of them if I have to as a co-conspirator. When the time comes, I'll tell my side of the story and take my chances with a jury if need be."

McCoy's eyebrows shot up. "Calea..." he started.

"And under the circumstances, I don't think it's a good idea for me to help you anymore with this case. Whatever questions you have can be directed to Drew. I'm sure he can tell you anything you need to know."

Compton was staring at her. "You're going to let them ruin your career?"

Morgan stood up. "If it comes to that." She glanced at him. "I have to go."

He stood as well, clearly surprised. "My flight doesn't leave for a few more hours. I was hoping we could spend a little time together."

"I don't think so," Morgan replied quietly. "I have several contracts to review before tomorrow and another client to see this evening." After a second of hesitation, she stepped toward him and gave him a quick hug.

"Have a safe trip back and tell Grace I said 'hello'."

When Compton released her she turned to McCoy. "I'll be at my office all day tomorrow. If I need to appear for Parker's motion, let me know."

Without waiting for his reply she turned and walked out of the office.

As Compton sat back down McCoy shook his head once, as if to clear it.

"You know her better than I do. What the hell makes her do that?" At Compton's questioning look, he sat forward. "What makes her bite your hand every time you reach out to help her?"

A brief look of amusement crossed Compton's face. "Sounds like you know her pretty well." He shook his head and added seriously, "Trust doesn't come easily for Calea. She's used to taking care of herself."

McCoy studied him intently. He decided a subtle hint was in order. "If you know something that will help me make the case against Tyler, I hope you will share that knowledge."

Compton's poker face was as good as his own. "If I could help you, I certainly would."

Although he would liked to have pursued the thought, Carmichael's appearance at his door ended the opportunity.

After greeting Compton she sat down. "How did the interviews go?"

"No one is saying anything. And there may be another problem getting our evidence admitted." McCoy briefly explained what had transpired during Tyler's questioning and his off-the-record threat.

"We appear before the grand jury tomorrow morning at 8:00. We should be able to get a quick indictment with the evidence we have. I doubt if his attorney can get a hearing on his motion before then," Carmichael noted.

"We want him remanded without bail. Who is the arraignment judge tomorrow afternoon?" McCoy asked.

"Judge Welch. A man he set bail for skipped town recently. I'm sure it's still fresh on his mind. I'll be sure and point out what a flight risk Tyler would be. "

McCoy gave her an appreciative nod and picked up his ringing phone. "McCoy."

"Counselor, this is Van Buren. Drew Compton got a call from his assistant. He wants Mr. Compton to return his call as soon as possible."

"Thanks, I'll tell him."

When he had hung up the phone, he relayed the message to Compton.

"Let's hope it's good news," Compton commented. "May I use your phone?"

McCoy turned it around for him and spoke quietly with Carmichael as Compton placed the call.

"You just missed Calea. I called her in to ask where she got the information she brought us. She still says it was given to her."

"How did she take the news about Tyler's threat?" Carmichael asked.

"She was pretty upset when she left. We couldn't come up with a way to get around the co-conspirator problem."

Carmichael held her comment when Compton hung up the phone. She and McCoy looked at him expectantly.

"My assistant said almost all of the files from Tyler's office have been examined and are clean. Nothing incriminating was found." A merciless smile spread across his face. "But his home files are a different story. It seems that whoever tried to delete them didn't do a very good job. Our experts were able to recover everything. It sounds like the same information Calea supplied you with. Since they were only found at his home, maybe the other partners weren't even aware of their existence."

McCoy's eyes sparkled with intensity. "And they may not be too happy once they find out. It could help us drive a wedge between them and Tyler if he insists on trying to implicate Calea."

"The first hurdle you have to get over is Parker's claim about how your evidence was obtained. Are you going to take her suggestion and claim her as your source?" Compton asked.

Before McCoy could answer Carmichael offered, "If you can convince the judge her life is in danger, you wouldn't have to. The fact that you've assigned police protection certainly helps your claim. Since I was with her during the attempt last Monday, I could give a first-hand account of what happened."

Sitting back in his chair, McCoy considered thoughtfully. "The only problem I can see is that the attempt was made before she went to Chicago. It wasn't directly related to the files."

"But it was made because she had at least some of the information," Carmichael argued, "even if she didn't realize it. She went to Chicago after recognizing a name in one of Fairchild’s files. That knowledge was in her head all along. What she read just jogged her memory. Who are we to say exactly what piece of information the person who made the attempt was trying to keep her from revealing?"

"And you didn't tell Parker when that attempt was made," Compton reminded him. "If he claims it was made too long before the file disappeared to be related, he's going to have to explain how he knows that. Since you didn't tell him, that would only leave Tyler. He isn't going to risk incriminating his client."

With a slow nod McCoy agreed, "With the right judge it could work. It will be interesting to see what Parker has to say."

"In the mean time, I'll see what we can come up with to get the evidence found today admitted as inevitable discovery, in case your plan doesn't work." Compton glanced at his watch. "In fact, I think I'll try to catch the earlier flight out so I can get started on it right away. Can I make it from here to the airport in an hour?"

"If I drive you," Carmichael assured him with a smile.

"What is it about Texas women and driving fast? Calea used to get pulled over at least once a month when she lived in Chicago," Compton noted as he stood up.

"It's because Texas is so big," Carmichael explained. "All those wide-open spaces just invite speed, and that's a hard habit to break. But don't worry, I'm a great driver. Just ask Jack."

McCoy stood up and held his hand out to Compton. "Take my advice and wear your seatbelt." He shook the other man's hand warmly. "Thanks for all your help, Drew. I hope we'll be sending some business your way in a few days. I'll let you know how things go tomorrow and what the three partners have to say about the evidence found in Tyler's home. As soon as we're finished with them, we'll put them on a plane to you."

Compton nodded. "I'd appreciate that." He hesitated a moment. "There is one other thing. I wouldn't presume to tell you how to do your job, but are you really going to count on Tyler to call the dogs off of Calea?"

With a reassuring smile, McCoy shook his head. "After another few days in her office, if everything is quiet I might have the officers back off a little and put in a less visible presence to see what happens. But I don't trust Tyler any more than you do."

With a look of relief, Compton said, "Thanks, Jack. It's been a pleasure."

He followed Carmichael out and down the hallway to the elevators.

"How did you know I was from Texas?" she asked as she punched the call button.

"When she came to Chicago, Calea mentioned to my wife and me over dinner that she had found a running partner named Abbie who worked in the D.A.'s office and was from Texas. I assumed she was referring to you."

Carmichael smiled. "She was."

As they stepped through the open elevator doors he added, "And that accent is a dead giveaway."

With a perplexed look Carmichael asked, "What accent?"