Page 143 - The Houseguest

answered: “Yes, he is my Houseguest.” “Houseguest?” she asked as if she’d never heard the term or was confused by my choice of adjectives. Calmly and professionally I stated, “Yes, my Houseguest. It’s a community program designed to help ex-cons acclimate back into society. I have a brochure around here somewhere if you’d like to learn more.”
“That won’t be necessary. Do you know where Mr. Gabel is right now?” she asked. “I assume he’s at work. I tried calling him today about his Houseguest stipend, but it went straight to voice mail,” I said as I noticed she kept checking her phone. “Well, do you know when he will be returning?” she asked. “I assume around 6:00, but I can’t be certain,” I said. “I have a few more questions for you, Mr. Richards...I won’t take up much more of your time,” she informed me. “Anything I can do to help Ms. Fitzgerald; however, I would like some information about the purpose of your investigation here,” I added, running the risk of her questioning why I was being so curious. But she answered without hesitation, “Frankly sir, I am not obligated by law to tell you. Out of courtesy however, I will let you know that there has been a very serious crime and Mr. Gabel may very well be involved.”
I thought to myself that I should be nominated for an academy award as I donned my most concerned expression: “Oh no, I was afraid of something like this. I believe in rehabilitation...don’t get me wrong. But sometimes there are those with a pre-determined fate in life, I suppose.” I continued, “This poor bastard never had a chance in the environment where he was raised.” She stared through me remaining
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The Houseguest by Linda Ellis www.LindaEllis.life