Chapter 22, Have You Understood the Expanse of All The Earth?
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Robert was astounded. “Mr Knoll took me off the contract because Colonel Stone recommended it, not because of anything I did. Yes, I was disappointed, but I got over it quickly. I believe in forgiveness, not revenge.”
Gordon nodded, “I believe you and I agree with you. It does seem childish, but that is their case. A man with an axe to grind visits the scene, takes advantage of the opportunity to look around, then returns to execute his devious plan. They will argue that you stole the things to ruin the test and ruin the careers of Colonel Stone and General Thomas since you think they ruined yours.”
Robert shook his head in disbelief, “So, what’s going to happen?”
“I have asked the Judge Advocate General to release you on your own recognizance. I’ll find out later today if he will or not. If he doesn’t then maybe he’ll set a bail." he paused. “Robert, there is one more thing. They are getting warrants to search your apartment and car. You will be held until they do that, so you may as well get comfortable. With some luck that will happened today, but if I were you, I’d plan on another night in here.”
“Okay, thanks. I appreciate the information. They can search all they want, there is nothing in my apartment or my car for them to find.”
“I’ll let you know something as soon as I find out.” Gordon said as he left.
Robert laid down on the small bed. God, I know that you can do all things and that your purpose cannot be denied. I do not understand your ways, but I know that you love me and whatever happens in this, I know that it is according to your plan. Thank you God, I trust in your Grace.
He prayed, and then he napped, the annoying Katink from the water drip going unnoticed until the desk sergeant brought his lunch bag and woke him up.
His afternoon was highlighted by a short visit from Minky. She was worried and Robert tried his best to keep the visit light hearted. He didn’t want her to worry or be sad.
“So, what’s a nice girl like you doing in a place like this?” he said, trying his best Humphrey Bogart impression.
When she smiled, he forgot he was in a jail cell.
Minky leaned in close to the bars, “If this copper here would give us a minute, I’d show ya.” she said
Robert moved close and from the corner of his eye he saw the desk sergeant blush and look down at his boots. They managed a kiss through the bars.
“I’m not much good at this.” Minky confessed. “I’ve never seen the inside of a police station.”
“What? You didn’t bake me a cake with a file in it? You really are not good at this." he said smiling.
She chuckled, “If I baked you a cake, you probably would need a chisel to get the file out of it and the file would be the tastiest part."
They held hands through the bars as he told her what his lawyer had told him that morning. His house and car were to be searched and then he hoped the Judge would set bail or release him on his own recognizance. When Robert finished, the desk sergeant tapped Minky’s elbow. A signal that it was time for her to leave. Robert took a long look into her eyes and they shared another brief kiss through the bars.
The Sergeant escorted her out and he was once again alone in his cell with the “Katink” of the dripping sink to mark the passage of his afternoon.
Along with his dinner came a message from Gordon. “I’ll see you in the morning to talk about the search.” is all it said.
Robert spent the evening listening to the TV across the room, outside of his cell. It was positioned on the wall so that the one TV could be seen by both of the holding cells. The desk sergeant kept the remote and had been nice enough to turn it on and select the Discovery Channel for him. It passed the time and muted the dripping sink. It stayed on all night and Robert didn’t mind. He didn’t really sleep that night and was glad to have the company.
His breakfast sandwich was brought to him around 08:30. He was glad to see it and especially glad to see the large cup of coffee, even if it was only lukewarm.
Gordon arrived at nine. “Robert, if there is anything more you want to tell me, you know you are protected by client privilege, right?”
Robert frowned, this did not sound good. “Yes, I understand that, but why do you point it out? What are you talking about?" He could feel his heart beat as his pulse increased.
Gordon looked at him as if trying to assess his honesty. “Robert, they found a file on your computer that described how to extend the range of a garage door remote, like the ones used to detonate the drones.”
Robert’s confusion showed on his face.
Gordon clarified, “They think you were working on how to use the drones to blow up something or someone.”
Robert didn’t know what to say.
“The judge has denied your bail. The investigators are worried that since they have not found the drones or explosives you may grab them and blow something up. You’ll be moved to the El Paso County jail for holding until your trial.”
“So much for being presumed innocent." he said.