| Subject: WTTS2 - 83b |
Author:
KT
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Date Posted: 22:10:24 01/11/02 Fri
In reply to:
KT
's message, "Window to the Soul 2 - More (splitting the thread *as requested by Sanlin*)" on 21:52:29 01/11/02 Fri
Window to the Soul 2 - Part 83b
By KT
Copyright December 15, 2000
When Michael arrived at the Hall on Monday, he found a message to call Detective O'Brien. He settled back in his chair, typing on his computer, as O'Brien answered.
"This is O'Brien."
"Hello Detective. This is..."
"Yes... Michael." O'Brien cut him off as he recognized the Frenchman's soft accent. "Thank you for returning my call."
"So, what is it I can do for you?"
"I just wanted to officially notify you that Vlad Chernov has been extradited and that you don't need to take any further action on the charges filed against him. All we'll need is a written statement to submit to Interpol describing the incident at your apartment. In triplicate, of course." O'Brien chuckled. "Paperwork makes the world go 'round," he quipped.
Michael stared at the pile of work on his desk. "That is the truth."
"Any time that's convenient for you this week would be fine. Oh and Michael, you may be needed to testify against Egran Petrosian in regards to the conversation you heard between him and Chernov."
"But I really have had no direct contact with the man."
"I understand, but you are the only person who can testify as to Karen Kent's motives besides Petrosian. It's not likely he'll be revealing any pertinent information regarding the ways in which he aided and abetted the murder of Jaime Zalman. And Michael, I'd rather not have to call Nikita into court. But her presence there, considering her circumstances, could show strong evidence as to the criminal intent of them both. The fact is, the weapon that Nikita was shot with was procured by Petrosian."
"You can prove that?"
"Well, no, we can't, but it doesn't matter. We have other hard evidence that will suffice. In the meantime, you were also a witness to the shooting, and a key element in Kent's actions."
Michael winced as O'Brien reminded him of his pivotal part in the sequence of bizarre events. He still would give anything to turn back those events, to have been the one who was injured instead of Nikita. He quickly quelled his reaction. This kind of thinking served no purpose.
"All right, Detective. I'll certainly cooperate in any way I can. Just let me know what is needed and when."
"Thank you, Michael." O'Brien signed off.
As Michael hung up, the door of his office cracked open. He glanced up at the sound of knocking to see Gray Wellman seeking entrance. Was it ten o'clock already?
Gray wheeled in and handed Michael his report, waiting patiently as Michael read it over. Nothing but praise for Nikita. As he read, Michael noted Gray's relaxed demeanor.
"So, our Principal pianist hasn't been too difficult for you to handle?"
"On the contrary, Michael. I find her to be lovely and interesting. Of course, she's been resistant to accepting help, but that's to be expected with anyone in her situation. I've enjoyed working with her and getting to know her."
Michael listened, maintaining his detached stance, nodding his head slightly. He studied Gray closely as he spoke. Yes, there was something in his voice and face that hadn't been there before.
"Good. That is as I expected."
"Yeah. In fact, we were discussing that at dinner the other night. How we both owe you a debt of thanks for..."
Michael cleared his throat, interrupting Gray. He didn't want to hear any more... didn't want to hear the details of their night out.
"Yes, well, I'm glad that your relationship has been productive. The Symphony can do nothing but benefit from your help, as it has with other disabled persons in the past."
Michael made his comment as business-like as possible. The last thing he wanted to do was tip Gray off to his true feelings about Nikita. Those would come to light soon enough. Right now, it was enough to be living with rumor and speculation on the part of the orchestra members. For a quick moment, Michael found himself grateful for Paul and Madeleine's discreet way of handling everything. He looked Gray in the eye.
"So, do you think she needs more mentoring, or can she be on her own?"
There was a beat of silence. Gray's turn to be detached.
"Oh, I think she can handle herself just fine." A twinge of pain ran through his heart as he spoke.
Michael picked up the nuance, but decided not to delve further into Gray's comment. He smiled solemnly and signaled that their meeting was over.
"Thank you, Gray. I appreciate your efforts on behalf of the orchestra."
Michael stood and opened the door. As Gray moved to exit, their eyes met and locked. Gray's heart was visible for a split second. Then he turned to leave as his eyes began to sadden with the memory of Nikita's gentle rebuff.
Michael stood in the doorway, watching Gray's retreating back, wrestling with the fact he had just seen. Gray had feelings for Nikita. He froze with the possibility that she had somehow participated in that. Did they touch? Did they kiss? Oh God...
Michael attempted to shake himself free of his misgivings. He retreated back into his office, chiding himself for being so upset, and sat down and attacked his paperwork. As the pile grew smaller, his heart grew a bit heavy. He didn't want Gray to be hurt. But he knew that there was no way he would be able to survive Gray and Nikita together. He picked up the phone...
* * * * * * * *
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