This is another excerpt from the book. This introduces the character of Karen Schmidt, the lead character’s best friend (though it may not seem like it later on) and former partner. (This is a raw introduction, unedited.)

Nearly two years had passed and not a word and not even a card passed between them. There was really nothing intentional about it. On hers or Stefanie’s part. Karen Schmidtstood at the doors of the General Investigations Unit. It was probably for the better. All partnerships need a break. But she had to put everything behind her. She wasn’t going to let what happened on that day come between them. Her only hope was that she was welcomed back to her old unit. Two years is a long time to be away.

And opening the doors was the easy part. The unit was mix of detectives and uniformed officers sitting at desks, interviewing suspects and witnesses. The only thing different was a glass-walled room that served as the operations center. The new high tech way of fighting crime, she thought. A little too new school for her.

“Can I help you?” a uniformed officer asked her. He stood before her. He was the same height and had the smell of a soon-to-be-retired cop. He was a sergeant was finishing out his years riding a desk. He was cordial and friendly. Probably a by the book kind of guy that kept the unit in order.

“That’s okay, I know where I’m going.”

He put his hand up to stop her. “All visitors must sign in.” He pushed a clipboard into
her hands. “Captain’s orders.” He smiled at her and handed over a pen.

“Fine,” she signed her name and handed the clipboard back to the sergeant. She looked around. The place hadn’t changed all that much. At least she thought it hadn’t changed.

“This is for you,” he told the lieutenant while handing her a visitor’s badge.

“Thank you,” she thanked him. She put the name badge on. “Anything else?”

“You’re good Lieutenant Schmidt,” he smiled.

“Is the captain in yet?” she said apprehensively.

“Captain is not in at the moment. Meeting with the brass,” he cracked a smile. “She’ll be here shortly.”

Karen looked at her watch—it was nine in the morning. “Rather early for a meeting with the brass. They don’t come until nine. And even then, they like to have their meetings after lunch.”

“The brass likes to get done early sometimes, leaves the cops to do their work,” he joked. “Personally, I think the captain hates it.”

Karen couldn’t help but smile. “I’m sure she does. Thanks.” She looked around. She didn’t recognize anyone in the bullpen. They were all fresh faces. Some of them looked like rookie detectives, others looked like seasoned detectives and others looked like they really wanted to be some place other than here.

Filed under: Book Excerpts, Honor Bound, Major Characters