Fic: Questions and Answers - Part 2
Title: Questions and Answers
Fandom: Law & Order: SVU (with a guest appearance by a character from the original Law & Order)
Pairing: A/O
Rating: R
Disclaimer: The characters from the Law & Order Universe do not belong to me. No infringement intended and no profit will be made from their use.
Spoilers: None - set some time during Season 3 (because that's the ulitmate Olivia!)
Summary: An unusual case prompts detectives to ask some interesting questions...
Author's Note: I'm not a lawyer. I did some research on NY law, but I may have taken some creative liberties for the sake of the story.
At five after six Alex’s phone rang.
“Hey, it’s Olivia. I’m out front. Are you about ready or should I find a parking place?”
“I just finished up, so I’ll be right down.” She hung up the phone and gathered her purse and briefcase. She exited the building to find Olivia double-parked with the light flashing on the top of the car. She opened the car door and got in.
Alex smiled and said, “I didn’t realize this was an emergency trip.”
Olivia reached out of the window and removed the flasher from the roof. “One advantage of being a cop. You can always find a parking place when you’re in a department vehicle.”
Alex gave Olivia the approximate address and they drove to the bar. They lucked up and found a parking place not far up on the same block. As they got out of the car, Olivia told Alex her plan. “Southerlyn said that they weren’t too friendly toward men here. I’m guessing that they might not be too welcoming if I go in flashing my badge right away. How about we just go in for a drink and get a feel for the place before asking any questions?”
Alex gave Olivia a sideways glance. “Should we really be drinking if we’re here in an official capacity?”
“No, but there’s nothing wrong with ordering a mineral water, now is there?” the detective responded with a smile.
Alex gestured to a door. “Here it is.” Sure enough, there was no sign or markings of any kind on the door.
“So do we need a password or a decoder ring or something to get in?” Olivia joked as she held the door open for Alex to enter.
Alex hesitated for an instant and then walked past Olivia through the door. “No, but remind me later and I’ll show you the secret handshake.”
Olivia stood speechless for a moment before shaking her head with a smile and following Alex up the stairs. She knew Alex was joking, but she couldn’t help but wonder if there was hidden meaning in her words.
They went through a second door at the top of the stairs and found themselves in a cozy bar, surrounded by lots of oak, brass and greenery. Many of the tables were occupied by women dressed in business suits and work attire. “Gertrude & Alice” was written in script on the mirror behind the large oak bar. Olivia led the way over to two empty barstools and pulled one out for Alex as she took a seat on the other.
The bartender approached shortly after they got seated. She was wearing black pants and a crisp white tuxedo shirt. Her long, dark hair was pulled back into a ponytail. She instantly reminded Olivia of a younger version of former ADA Abbie Carmichael. The Abbie look-alike smiled and said, “What can I get for you?” Looking directly at Olivia, she added, “We have a half-price special tonight for first time visitors.”
“What makes you think I’m a first time visitor?” Olivia asked.
“Oh, I’d definitely remember you,” the bartender answered with a grin. She turned to Alex and said, “No offense.”
Alex smiled and said, “None taken.” Then not quite under her breath she added, “She is quite memorable.”
The bartender laughed when Olivia’s chin dropped as she gave Alex an incredulous look. “I’ll just bet she is. So what’ll it be, ladies?”
Alex ignored Olivia’s look and said, “I’ll have a Perrier with lime, please.”
Olivia recovered enough to say, “I’ll have the same.” The bartender moved away to get their drinks and Olivia turned back to Alex. Smiling through clinched teeth, she asked, “What was that all about?”
Alex shrugged innocently as she barely suppressed a smile. “Didn’t want to blow our cover.”
The bartender returned with two glasses garnished with lime and set them in front of the two women. She twisted open a large Perrier bottle and filled each glass, leaving the bottle between them. She looked again at Olivia and said, “My name’s Kate. Don’t hesitate to call me if you need anything.” She then gave Alex a quick smile and moved to the other end of the bar.
Alex looked at Olivia with an amused smirk on her face. Olivia looked back as she took a sip from her glass. She stopped mid-sip and said, “What?”
“You do realize that she’s flirting with you?”
Olivia’s eyes widened. “Really?” The genuine look of surprise that Alex gave her in return made Olivia unable to keep up the charade and she laughed.
When Alex realized that Olivia was only feigning ignorance she rolled her eyes and said dryly, “Smartass.”
Olivia shrugged. “I thought I might use that to my advantage.”
“Being a smartass?”
“No, the flirting.” Alex cocked an eyebrow. “You know, make it a little easier to get her to talk to me.” The other eyebrow joined the first. “If I came in here in cop interrogation mode, she would probably just clam up. A little friendly banter first, and she’s more likely to answer my questions later.”
“Detective school 101?”
“More like human nature 101.” At the other end of the bar, Kate flashed Olivia a smile and the detective smiled back. Alex saw the exchange a rolled her eyes again. Olivia caught the eye-roll and leaned over to Alex. “Are you jealous?”
“Jealous? Of who?” Now that was an interesting question. It occurred to Olivia that Alex could be jealous of either woman.
She opted for her original thought. “That she’s flirting with me and not you?”
Alex scoffed and glanced at the bartender. “She’s not really my type.”
So that left the other option. Was Alex jealous that Olivia was flirting with the bartender? “So, what is your type?”
Before Alex could answer, the bartender appeared in front of them again. “You two doing OK down here?” She glanced again at Alex, but directed her focus to Olivia.
“We’re good,” Olivia answered.
“OK. Let me know if there’s anything you need.” She turned to walk away again.
Olivia shot Alex a look and then said, “Actually, Kate?” The bartender turned back around. “There is something…” Kate moved over right in front of Olivia and grinned. “Do you work here every night?”
“Every night but Sunday & Monday. We’re closed Sunday and I have Mondays off.”
Olivia nodded. “Has Tina been in lately?”
“Tina?” The bartender’s expression changed slightly. “I don’t think so.”
“But you do know her? Tina Grado?”
“Look, we have a policy to not really discuss our patrons.”
“I understand.” Olivia reached into her pocket and pulled out a business card. She handed it to Kate. “Here’s my card. If you remember seeing her, please let me know.”
Kate took the card and looked at it. She looked at Alex and then back at Olivia. She leaned forward and said, “You’re cops?”
“I am, but I’m not looking to cause any trouble for the club. I’m just trying to find out what happened to Tina Grado.”
“Something happened to her?”
Olivia nodded. “I’m afraid so.” Seeing the look on the bartender’s face, Olivia sensed a chink in the armor. “When’s the last time you saw her here?”
“I think it was Tuesday night. Look, you really need to talk to my boss. I don’t want to get fired for talking to you without her.”
“No problem. Is she here?”
“Hold on.” The bartender turned around and picked up a phone, pressing a button. She spoke quietly into the phone for a few seconds and then hung up. She turned around and called to one of the wait staff, “Michelle? Could you show these ladies to Joanna’s office please?”
They were escorted around the end of the bar, down the hall past the restrooms, to a large oak door at the end of the hall. A short knock and the door was opened by a well dressed redhead that Olivia guessed to be in her mid to late forties. She nodded to the waitress and smiled at Olivia and Alex.
She extended her hand to Olivia and said, “Joanna Delacroix, owner of this fine establishment.”
Olivia shook her hand and then produced her badge. “Detective Olivia Benson, and this is Assistant District Attorney Alexandra Cabot.”
She shook Alex’s hand and said, “Please, come in. Have a seat.” She gestured to a small sitting area in the corner of the large office. When they were all seated, the club owner looked again at Olivia. “I understand that you are, unfortunately, not here to simply enjoy the company of Gertrude & Alice.” She spoke with a slightly southern accent.
“We’re investigating the death of Christina Grado.” Olivia noticed the look of surprise that crossed the woman’s face as she handed the victim’s picture to the club owner. “We understand that she was a regular here.”
Joanna looked at the picture and handed it back to Olivia. She nodded and said, “Yes. I know Tina. She came in quite often. What happened to her?”
“That’s what we’re trying to find out. What can you tell me about her?”
“Not much, other than she loved the ladies. And rarely went home with the same one twice.”
“Did you see her Tuesday evening?”
The redhead seemed to think for a moment. “I don’t recall seeing her Tuesday, but I can’t be certain. I’m in and out of my office all the time. You may have better luck asking my staff.”
“I talked to the bartender, but she was hesitant to talk to me without your approval.”
“Please don’t hold that against either of us, Detective. I stress the importance of discretion to my staff. It’s part of what makes my business successful. I’ve tried to create an environment where women can meet other women safely and without fear of judgment or prying eyes.”
“I understand, but if she saw Ms. Grado on Tuesday night, it could be vital to our investigation.”
“Certainly. I’ll tell Kate to tell you anything she knows. And if you need to speak with any others on my staff, you are welcome to come back tomorrow afternoon. We open at four, but the staff comes in to prep at three. I’ll make them available to speak to you then.”
“Thank you. That will be helpful.” Olivia reached in her pocket and produced a business card. “Here’s my card if you should think of anything that might help.”
Joanna smiled. “Thank you, Detective. I hope your next visit will be of a personal nature.” She gave Olivia a brief once-over as the detective stood. “You could be good for business.”
Olivia’s only reaction was a slight quirk of an eyebrow. Alex rose from her chair, her lips pressed together in a tight smile. “Thank you for your time.”
At the sound of her voice, Joanna turned to Alex as if she’d forgotten the ADA was in the room. “Let me escort you back to the bar.” She moved away from the seating area and past the two women. She opened the office door and made a flourish with her hand to allow the detective and the attorney to exit first.
When they reached the bar, Joanna summoned the bartender. “Kate, please answer any questions these ladies have for you.” She turned back to Alex and Olivia and nodded a farewell. “Ladies, I hope to see you again, under friendlier circumstances, of course.” She then turned on her heel and disappeared down the hallway to her office.
Kate gave Olivia a sheepish look. “Sorry about that. I can’t afford to lose my job.”
Olivia smiled. “It’s OK. I understand.” The detective perched on an empty barstool. “So you did see Tina Grado here Tuesday night?”
“Yeah, she was here.”
“Was she with someone or alone?”
“She came in alone, but left with someone. As usual.”
“Did you know the woman she left with?”
“No. I’d never seen her here before.”
“Can you describe her?”
“She wasn’t very memorable to be honest. I’m pretty sure she had dark hair, about shoulder length. I don’t really remember much else. She seemed a little shy at first, but warmed up pretty quickly when she got a few drinks in her.”
Olivia nodded. The physical description definitely ruled out Serena Southerlyn. Even though Olivia had believed the attorney had no involvement, it couldn’t hurt to have evidence to back it up. “Who approached who?”
“I’m not sure. More than likely, Tina made the first move, but I don’t really know.” She paused for a second trying to remember. “Hold on. I think the other woman picked up the bar tab. Give me a minute and I’ll check the credit card receipts.”
“That would be great.” Now they were getting somewhere.
“Can I get you anything while you wait?” Kate turned on the charm again with a killer smile.
Olivia turned to Alex who had moved to sit next to her at the bar. The ADA shook her head. Olivia turned back to the bartender and shook her head also. “No, I think we’re good.”
Kate smiled even bigger. “I’ll just bet you are, Detective.” She glanced at Alex and walked to the register at the opposite end of the bar.
When Kate was out of earshot, Olivia rolled her eyes and turned to Alex. “What? Have they never had a police detective in here before?” She looked down at her clothing. She was wearing dark slacks, a light blue V-neck sweater over a white t-shirt, and her usual black leather jacket. “I don’t look any different than any other female detective.”
Alex bit her lip in an attempt not to smile. Olivia couldn’t help but notice the amused look. She scoffed and gestured toward Alex. “You’re a beautiful woman, who’s been here before I might add, why aren’t they fawning over you?”
This time it was Alex who rolled her eyes. “Oh, please, Olivia. With your looks, the leather jacket, and that swagger you walk with, you’re a lesbian’s wet dream.”
Olivia’s eyebrows skyrocketed and her chin dropped. It took her a few seconds to find her voice. “I do not-”
“Found it!” Kate appeared in front of Olivia, interrupting her, as she handed her a receipt.
Olivia took the receipt and read the name. “Kimberly Neil. Ring any bells?”
The bartender shook her head. “Nope. Don’t know her. I made a copy, so you can keep the receipt if it will help.” She offered Olivia another smile.
“Thanks, Kate. You’ve been a big help.” Olivia dropped a twenty-dollar bill on the counter to pay for their earlier drinks and leave a generous tip. “If you think of anything else, you have my card.” She stood and looked at Alex. Alex took that as a signal that they were done and stood up.
Kate produced Olivia’s business card from her back pocket and flicked it. “I’ve got it. Maybe… I’ll see you here again sometime.”
Olivia didn’t respond, but smiled. She turned to Alex. “Ready?”
The ADA nodded. “Ready.”
Olivia turned toward the door and then spun back around almost causing Alex to crash into her. She lowered her voice and leaned closer to Alex. “And for the record, I. Do not. Swagger.” Then she turned and walked to the door.
Alex stood still for a moment and watched Olivia walk away, swagger very much intact. She suppressed a smile and said quietly under her breath, “Yes. You. Do.” She glanced back at the bartender who was doing nothing short of ogling the detective as she departed. Another woman turned to look as Olivia passed her on the way to the door. To no one in particular, Alex said, “I rest my case.” Then she took a deep breath and followed Olivia.
***
Alex had just entered her apartment when her cell phone rang. She put down her briefcase and shrugged out of her overcoat as she retrieved the ringing phone from her purse. Glancing at the display, she saw Serena Southerlyn’s name.
“Hello?”
“You’ve been holding out on me, Cabot.”
“Pardon?”
“I can’t believe you never introduced me to Olivia Benson.”
“Why would I?”
“Oh, come on, Alex. She’s gorgeous! Is that why you turned me down?”
“What are you talking about?”
“You’re keeping her all to yourself, aren’t you? I can’t believe you never told me about her.”
“She’s a colleague, Serena.”
“Are you sleeping with her?”
“What?! No! We work together.”
“Oh, please. You can be discreet.”
“We’re not sleeping together.”
“So then you won’t mind if I call her.”
Alex hesitated. “I don’t think that would be a good idea.”
“Why not?”
“Well, for starters you’re a potential witness in the case she’s working on.”
Serena scoffed. “I think I was cleared as a suspect, was I not?”
“I said witness, not suspect.”
“What else?”
“What do you mean ‘what else’?”
“You said ‘for starters’. What other reasons do you have for me not calling her?”
Alex hesitated again. “I just don’t think it would be a good idea.”
Alex never realized that you could actually hear someone smile. But she could swear that she heard Serena smile, even over the phone. “You’re interested in her, aren’t you?”
Alex sighed. “Serena… I’m not even sure she plays for our team.”
“Oh come on, Alex. I’ll bet she doesn’t just play for it, I’ll bet she’s an MVP!”
“Serena-”
“And I notice you didn’t deny the attraction.” Alex really hated it when Serena sounded so smug. “I’ll back off for now. But I’m keeping her card…”
“You can be such a pain in the ass, Serena.”
“And you’re a chickenshit, Cabot. Go for it! What’s the worst that could happen?”
Alex shuddered. “I don’t even want to go there.”
“Go there, Alex! I’ll bet you like what you find.”
“Goodbye, Serena.” Alex clicked off the phone to the sound of Serena smiling again.
***
“Wait, let me get this straight - no pun intended.” Elliot laughed at his own joke. “You took Cabot to a dyke bar?”
Olivia bit her tongue to keep from telling him that it was Alex who took her to the bar, but she promised not to open any closet doors unless it was absolutely necessary. Even if Alex had nothing to hide, she didn’t want to be the cause of any rumors that may get started. “That’s all you got out of what I just said? Elliot, we have a solid lead. I ran the credit card number from the bar receipt and got an address. I’m going to talk to Kimberly Neil. Are you coming or not?”
Elliot stood and followed Olivia out of the squad room. When they got to the garage, he just couldn’t let it be. “So how did she like it? Did anyone hit on her?”
“What? No!” She held her hand out to Elliot. “Give me the keys.”
He tossed her the keys. “Maybe they thought she was with you.”
Olivia rolled her eyes. “She was with me.”
“No, I mean with you.”
Olivia scoffed. “Didn’t stop them from hitting on me.” She immediately wished she hadn’t said that when she saw the look of amusement on Elliot’s face.
They got in the car and Elliot continued with his tormenting. “And how did she react to that?”
Olivia backed the brown sedan out of its parking space and headed toward the exit of the police garage. “Why would she react to that?” She wasn’t about to tell her partner that the ADA almost seemed jealous of the women flirting with her.
“A little jealousy, maybe?”
Olivia hit the brake and turned to glare at her partner.
“Jesus, Liv!!” Elliot had reflexively braced himself by placing his hands on the dash as the sudden stop engaged his seatbelt as it lurched him forward. He pulled one hand back and adjusted the belt where it was now almost cutting into his neck.
“Why would you say that?”
“Because you nearly gave me whiplash.”
“Not that! Jealousy?”
“I’ve seen the way she looks at you.”
“What?!”
“You’ve had some rather… heated conversations.”
“They’re called arguments.”
“When she argues with me, I get the Ice Queen. When she argues with you… the paint on the wall starts to peel from the heat.” He shook his head. “I swear last time I thought she was going to kiss you,” Elliot said with a chuckle. Olivia simply glared. Elliot shrugged as he continued, “There’s a fine line between anger and lust. I’m just saying that sometimes with you and Alex that line seems to blur.”
“We are not having this conversation.” Olivia stomped the gas pedal, sending Elliot’s head back against the car headrest.
“Fine. Especially not while you’re driving.”
TO BE CONTINUED...
Fandom: Law & Order: SVU (with a guest appearance by a character from the original Law & Order)
Pairing: A/O
Rating: R
Disclaimer: The characters from the Law & Order Universe do not belong to me. No infringement intended and no profit will be made from their use.
Spoilers: None - set some time during Season 3 (because that's the ulitmate Olivia!)
Summary: An unusual case prompts detectives to ask some interesting questions...
Author's Note: I'm not a lawyer. I did some research on NY law, but I may have taken some creative liberties for the sake of the story.
At five after six Alex’s phone rang.
“Hey, it’s Olivia. I’m out front. Are you about ready or should I find a parking place?”
“I just finished up, so I’ll be right down.” She hung up the phone and gathered her purse and briefcase. She exited the building to find Olivia double-parked with the light flashing on the top of the car. She opened the car door and got in.
Alex smiled and said, “I didn’t realize this was an emergency trip.”
Olivia reached out of the window and removed the flasher from the roof. “One advantage of being a cop. You can always find a parking place when you’re in a department vehicle.”
Alex gave Olivia the approximate address and they drove to the bar. They lucked up and found a parking place not far up on the same block. As they got out of the car, Olivia told Alex her plan. “Southerlyn said that they weren’t too friendly toward men here. I’m guessing that they might not be too welcoming if I go in flashing my badge right away. How about we just go in for a drink and get a feel for the place before asking any questions?”
Alex gave Olivia a sideways glance. “Should we really be drinking if we’re here in an official capacity?”
“No, but there’s nothing wrong with ordering a mineral water, now is there?” the detective responded with a smile.
Alex gestured to a door. “Here it is.” Sure enough, there was no sign or markings of any kind on the door.
“So do we need a password or a decoder ring or something to get in?” Olivia joked as she held the door open for Alex to enter.
Alex hesitated for an instant and then walked past Olivia through the door. “No, but remind me later and I’ll show you the secret handshake.”
Olivia stood speechless for a moment before shaking her head with a smile and following Alex up the stairs. She knew Alex was joking, but she couldn’t help but wonder if there was hidden meaning in her words.
They went through a second door at the top of the stairs and found themselves in a cozy bar, surrounded by lots of oak, brass and greenery. Many of the tables were occupied by women dressed in business suits and work attire. “Gertrude & Alice” was written in script on the mirror behind the large oak bar. Olivia led the way over to two empty barstools and pulled one out for Alex as she took a seat on the other.
The bartender approached shortly after they got seated. She was wearing black pants and a crisp white tuxedo shirt. Her long, dark hair was pulled back into a ponytail. She instantly reminded Olivia of a younger version of former ADA Abbie Carmichael. The Abbie look-alike smiled and said, “What can I get for you?” Looking directly at Olivia, she added, “We have a half-price special tonight for first time visitors.”
“What makes you think I’m a first time visitor?” Olivia asked.
“Oh, I’d definitely remember you,” the bartender answered with a grin. She turned to Alex and said, “No offense.”
Alex smiled and said, “None taken.” Then not quite under her breath she added, “She is quite memorable.”
The bartender laughed when Olivia’s chin dropped as she gave Alex an incredulous look. “I’ll just bet she is. So what’ll it be, ladies?”
Alex ignored Olivia’s look and said, “I’ll have a Perrier with lime, please.”
Olivia recovered enough to say, “I’ll have the same.” The bartender moved away to get their drinks and Olivia turned back to Alex. Smiling through clinched teeth, she asked, “What was that all about?”
Alex shrugged innocently as she barely suppressed a smile. “Didn’t want to blow our cover.”
The bartender returned with two glasses garnished with lime and set them in front of the two women. She twisted open a large Perrier bottle and filled each glass, leaving the bottle between them. She looked again at Olivia and said, “My name’s Kate. Don’t hesitate to call me if you need anything.” She then gave Alex a quick smile and moved to the other end of the bar.
Alex looked at Olivia with an amused smirk on her face. Olivia looked back as she took a sip from her glass. She stopped mid-sip and said, “What?”
“You do realize that she’s flirting with you?”
Olivia’s eyes widened. “Really?” The genuine look of surprise that Alex gave her in return made Olivia unable to keep up the charade and she laughed.
When Alex realized that Olivia was only feigning ignorance she rolled her eyes and said dryly, “Smartass.”
Olivia shrugged. “I thought I might use that to my advantage.”
“Being a smartass?”
“No, the flirting.” Alex cocked an eyebrow. “You know, make it a little easier to get her to talk to me.” The other eyebrow joined the first. “If I came in here in cop interrogation mode, she would probably just clam up. A little friendly banter first, and she’s more likely to answer my questions later.”
“Detective school 101?”
“More like human nature 101.” At the other end of the bar, Kate flashed Olivia a smile and the detective smiled back. Alex saw the exchange a rolled her eyes again. Olivia caught the eye-roll and leaned over to Alex. “Are you jealous?”
“Jealous? Of who?” Now that was an interesting question. It occurred to Olivia that Alex could be jealous of either woman.
She opted for her original thought. “That she’s flirting with me and not you?”
Alex scoffed and glanced at the bartender. “She’s not really my type.”
So that left the other option. Was Alex jealous that Olivia was flirting with the bartender? “So, what is your type?”
Before Alex could answer, the bartender appeared in front of them again. “You two doing OK down here?” She glanced again at Alex, but directed her focus to Olivia.
“We’re good,” Olivia answered.
“OK. Let me know if there’s anything you need.” She turned to walk away again.
Olivia shot Alex a look and then said, “Actually, Kate?” The bartender turned back around. “There is something…” Kate moved over right in front of Olivia and grinned. “Do you work here every night?”
“Every night but Sunday & Monday. We’re closed Sunday and I have Mondays off.”
Olivia nodded. “Has Tina been in lately?”
“Tina?” The bartender’s expression changed slightly. “I don’t think so.”
“But you do know her? Tina Grado?”
“Look, we have a policy to not really discuss our patrons.”
“I understand.” Olivia reached into her pocket and pulled out a business card. She handed it to Kate. “Here’s my card. If you remember seeing her, please let me know.”
Kate took the card and looked at it. She looked at Alex and then back at Olivia. She leaned forward and said, “You’re cops?”
“I am, but I’m not looking to cause any trouble for the club. I’m just trying to find out what happened to Tina Grado.”
“Something happened to her?”
Olivia nodded. “I’m afraid so.” Seeing the look on the bartender’s face, Olivia sensed a chink in the armor. “When’s the last time you saw her here?”
“I think it was Tuesday night. Look, you really need to talk to my boss. I don’t want to get fired for talking to you without her.”
“No problem. Is she here?”
“Hold on.” The bartender turned around and picked up a phone, pressing a button. She spoke quietly into the phone for a few seconds and then hung up. She turned around and called to one of the wait staff, “Michelle? Could you show these ladies to Joanna’s office please?”
They were escorted around the end of the bar, down the hall past the restrooms, to a large oak door at the end of the hall. A short knock and the door was opened by a well dressed redhead that Olivia guessed to be in her mid to late forties. She nodded to the waitress and smiled at Olivia and Alex.
She extended her hand to Olivia and said, “Joanna Delacroix, owner of this fine establishment.”
Olivia shook her hand and then produced her badge. “Detective Olivia Benson, and this is Assistant District Attorney Alexandra Cabot.”
She shook Alex’s hand and said, “Please, come in. Have a seat.” She gestured to a small sitting area in the corner of the large office. When they were all seated, the club owner looked again at Olivia. “I understand that you are, unfortunately, not here to simply enjoy the company of Gertrude & Alice.” She spoke with a slightly southern accent.
“We’re investigating the death of Christina Grado.” Olivia noticed the look of surprise that crossed the woman’s face as she handed the victim’s picture to the club owner. “We understand that she was a regular here.”
Joanna looked at the picture and handed it back to Olivia. She nodded and said, “Yes. I know Tina. She came in quite often. What happened to her?”
“That’s what we’re trying to find out. What can you tell me about her?”
“Not much, other than she loved the ladies. And rarely went home with the same one twice.”
“Did you see her Tuesday evening?”
The redhead seemed to think for a moment. “I don’t recall seeing her Tuesday, but I can’t be certain. I’m in and out of my office all the time. You may have better luck asking my staff.”
“I talked to the bartender, but she was hesitant to talk to me without your approval.”
“Please don’t hold that against either of us, Detective. I stress the importance of discretion to my staff. It’s part of what makes my business successful. I’ve tried to create an environment where women can meet other women safely and without fear of judgment or prying eyes.”
“I understand, but if she saw Ms. Grado on Tuesday night, it could be vital to our investigation.”
“Certainly. I’ll tell Kate to tell you anything she knows. And if you need to speak with any others on my staff, you are welcome to come back tomorrow afternoon. We open at four, but the staff comes in to prep at three. I’ll make them available to speak to you then.”
“Thank you. That will be helpful.” Olivia reached in her pocket and produced a business card. “Here’s my card if you should think of anything that might help.”
Joanna smiled. “Thank you, Detective. I hope your next visit will be of a personal nature.” She gave Olivia a brief once-over as the detective stood. “You could be good for business.”
Olivia’s only reaction was a slight quirk of an eyebrow. Alex rose from her chair, her lips pressed together in a tight smile. “Thank you for your time.”
At the sound of her voice, Joanna turned to Alex as if she’d forgotten the ADA was in the room. “Let me escort you back to the bar.” She moved away from the seating area and past the two women. She opened the office door and made a flourish with her hand to allow the detective and the attorney to exit first.
When they reached the bar, Joanna summoned the bartender. “Kate, please answer any questions these ladies have for you.” She turned back to Alex and Olivia and nodded a farewell. “Ladies, I hope to see you again, under friendlier circumstances, of course.” She then turned on her heel and disappeared down the hallway to her office.
Kate gave Olivia a sheepish look. “Sorry about that. I can’t afford to lose my job.”
Olivia smiled. “It’s OK. I understand.” The detective perched on an empty barstool. “So you did see Tina Grado here Tuesday night?”
“Yeah, she was here.”
“Was she with someone or alone?”
“She came in alone, but left with someone. As usual.”
“Did you know the woman she left with?”
“No. I’d never seen her here before.”
“Can you describe her?”
“She wasn’t very memorable to be honest. I’m pretty sure she had dark hair, about shoulder length. I don’t really remember much else. She seemed a little shy at first, but warmed up pretty quickly when she got a few drinks in her.”
Olivia nodded. The physical description definitely ruled out Serena Southerlyn. Even though Olivia had believed the attorney had no involvement, it couldn’t hurt to have evidence to back it up. “Who approached who?”
“I’m not sure. More than likely, Tina made the first move, but I don’t really know.” She paused for a second trying to remember. “Hold on. I think the other woman picked up the bar tab. Give me a minute and I’ll check the credit card receipts.”
“That would be great.” Now they were getting somewhere.
“Can I get you anything while you wait?” Kate turned on the charm again with a killer smile.
Olivia turned to Alex who had moved to sit next to her at the bar. The ADA shook her head. Olivia turned back to the bartender and shook her head also. “No, I think we’re good.”
Kate smiled even bigger. “I’ll just bet you are, Detective.” She glanced at Alex and walked to the register at the opposite end of the bar.
When Kate was out of earshot, Olivia rolled her eyes and turned to Alex. “What? Have they never had a police detective in here before?” She looked down at her clothing. She was wearing dark slacks, a light blue V-neck sweater over a white t-shirt, and her usual black leather jacket. “I don’t look any different than any other female detective.”
Alex bit her lip in an attempt not to smile. Olivia couldn’t help but notice the amused look. She scoffed and gestured toward Alex. “You’re a beautiful woman, who’s been here before I might add, why aren’t they fawning over you?”
This time it was Alex who rolled her eyes. “Oh, please, Olivia. With your looks, the leather jacket, and that swagger you walk with, you’re a lesbian’s wet dream.”
Olivia’s eyebrows skyrocketed and her chin dropped. It took her a few seconds to find her voice. “I do not-”
“Found it!” Kate appeared in front of Olivia, interrupting her, as she handed her a receipt.
Olivia took the receipt and read the name. “Kimberly Neil. Ring any bells?”
The bartender shook her head. “Nope. Don’t know her. I made a copy, so you can keep the receipt if it will help.” She offered Olivia another smile.
“Thanks, Kate. You’ve been a big help.” Olivia dropped a twenty-dollar bill on the counter to pay for their earlier drinks and leave a generous tip. “If you think of anything else, you have my card.” She stood and looked at Alex. Alex took that as a signal that they were done and stood up.
Kate produced Olivia’s business card from her back pocket and flicked it. “I’ve got it. Maybe… I’ll see you here again sometime.”
Olivia didn’t respond, but smiled. She turned to Alex. “Ready?”
The ADA nodded. “Ready.”
Olivia turned toward the door and then spun back around almost causing Alex to crash into her. She lowered her voice and leaned closer to Alex. “And for the record, I. Do not. Swagger.” Then she turned and walked to the door.
Alex stood still for a moment and watched Olivia walk away, swagger very much intact. She suppressed a smile and said quietly under her breath, “Yes. You. Do.” She glanced back at the bartender who was doing nothing short of ogling the detective as she departed. Another woman turned to look as Olivia passed her on the way to the door. To no one in particular, Alex said, “I rest my case.” Then she took a deep breath and followed Olivia.
***
Alex had just entered her apartment when her cell phone rang. She put down her briefcase and shrugged out of her overcoat as she retrieved the ringing phone from her purse. Glancing at the display, she saw Serena Southerlyn’s name.
“Hello?”
“You’ve been holding out on me, Cabot.”
“Pardon?”
“I can’t believe you never introduced me to Olivia Benson.”
“Why would I?”
“Oh, come on, Alex. She’s gorgeous! Is that why you turned me down?”
“What are you talking about?”
“You’re keeping her all to yourself, aren’t you? I can’t believe you never told me about her.”
“She’s a colleague, Serena.”
“Are you sleeping with her?”
“What?! No! We work together.”
“Oh, please. You can be discreet.”
“We’re not sleeping together.”
“So then you won’t mind if I call her.”
Alex hesitated. “I don’t think that would be a good idea.”
“Why not?”
“Well, for starters you’re a potential witness in the case she’s working on.”
Serena scoffed. “I think I was cleared as a suspect, was I not?”
“I said witness, not suspect.”
“What else?”
“What do you mean ‘what else’?”
“You said ‘for starters’. What other reasons do you have for me not calling her?”
Alex hesitated again. “I just don’t think it would be a good idea.”
Alex never realized that you could actually hear someone smile. But she could swear that she heard Serena smile, even over the phone. “You’re interested in her, aren’t you?”
Alex sighed. “Serena… I’m not even sure she plays for our team.”
“Oh come on, Alex. I’ll bet she doesn’t just play for it, I’ll bet she’s an MVP!”
“Serena-”
“And I notice you didn’t deny the attraction.” Alex really hated it when Serena sounded so smug. “I’ll back off for now. But I’m keeping her card…”
“You can be such a pain in the ass, Serena.”
“And you’re a chickenshit, Cabot. Go for it! What’s the worst that could happen?”
Alex shuddered. “I don’t even want to go there.”
“Go there, Alex! I’ll bet you like what you find.”
“Goodbye, Serena.” Alex clicked off the phone to the sound of Serena smiling again.
***
“Wait, let me get this straight - no pun intended.” Elliot laughed at his own joke. “You took Cabot to a dyke bar?”
Olivia bit her tongue to keep from telling him that it was Alex who took her to the bar, but she promised not to open any closet doors unless it was absolutely necessary. Even if Alex had nothing to hide, she didn’t want to be the cause of any rumors that may get started. “That’s all you got out of what I just said? Elliot, we have a solid lead. I ran the credit card number from the bar receipt and got an address. I’m going to talk to Kimberly Neil. Are you coming or not?”
Elliot stood and followed Olivia out of the squad room. When they got to the garage, he just couldn’t let it be. “So how did she like it? Did anyone hit on her?”
“What? No!” She held her hand out to Elliot. “Give me the keys.”
He tossed her the keys. “Maybe they thought she was with you.”
Olivia rolled her eyes. “She was with me.”
“No, I mean with you.”
Olivia scoffed. “Didn’t stop them from hitting on me.” She immediately wished she hadn’t said that when she saw the look of amusement on Elliot’s face.
They got in the car and Elliot continued with his tormenting. “And how did she react to that?”
Olivia backed the brown sedan out of its parking space and headed toward the exit of the police garage. “Why would she react to that?” She wasn’t about to tell her partner that the ADA almost seemed jealous of the women flirting with her.
“A little jealousy, maybe?”
Olivia hit the brake and turned to glare at her partner.
“Jesus, Liv!!” Elliot had reflexively braced himself by placing his hands on the dash as the sudden stop engaged his seatbelt as it lurched him forward. He pulled one hand back and adjusted the belt where it was now almost cutting into his neck.
“Why would you say that?”
“Because you nearly gave me whiplash.”
“Not that! Jealousy?”
“I’ve seen the way she looks at you.”
“What?!”
“You’ve had some rather… heated conversations.”
“They’re called arguments.”
“When she argues with me, I get the Ice Queen. When she argues with you… the paint on the wall starts to peel from the heat.” He shook his head. “I swear last time I thought she was going to kiss you,” Elliot said with a chuckle. Olivia simply glared. Elliot shrugged as he continued, “There’s a fine line between anger and lust. I’m just saying that sometimes with you and Alex that line seems to blur.”
“We are not having this conversation.” Olivia stomped the gas pedal, sending Elliot’s head back against the car headrest.
“Fine. Especially not while you’re driving.”
TO BE CONTINUED...