Page 6 of Fatal Strike
“I’m not sure how to appropriately answer. Yesterday, after the police found Marcia Trevelle’s body, Nicolás received a phone call. He tried to record the conversation, but the man hung up.”
“What was said?” Leah observed the woman nibbling her lip.
“All I know is the man spoke in English. According toNicolás, he was high or drunk, and he claimed my husband would be the next to die by the Venenos.”
“How many times had this happened?”
“Only once.”
Leah wondered if Judge Mendez had received other threats that he’d not told his wife.
“Mrs. Mendez,” Jon said, “did your husband report the threat?”
“Yes, sir, directly to Chief of Police Zachary Everson, who said he’d contacted the FBI for assistance. Chief Everson recommended immediate protection, which neither of us wanted. My husband refused to cower to bullies. Both the judge and I carry weapons and are trained to use them. I see now we were foolish, which is why I requested police assistance until this is over.” She gripped her hands. “Nothing stops fear for my children.”
Leah had talked to distraught people, and each time it strengthened her belief in her job. “Were you friends with the other two victims?”
“Everyone knows everyone else here on the island. Marcia Trevelle and I were close. At one time, we worked for the same legal firm. Stayed friends. The judge was more acquainted with Officer Ian Greer.”
“Did you and your husband discuss their deaths?”
“We were heartbroken and angry. This has all been so incredibly sudden. Last night, my husband renewed his commitment to rid Galveston of the Venenos and all violent crime.”
“Judge Mendez is to be commended for his position.” Leah hoped her words sounded as sincere as she intended them to be.
Tiny lines fanned from Mrs. Mendez’s eyes. “I appreciate it.”
“Were there any conversations we should be aware of regarding the other deaths?”
The woman tilted her head as though contemplating her reply. “Nothing substantial. I suggest having a conversation with Chief of Police Everson. My husband valued his dedication to the police department.”
The tension in the room escalated, and Leah wondered if Rachel Mendez opposed Everson. A door slammed, and the little girl burst into the room in tears.
“Mama.” The child ran to her. “Let me stay with you. I’ll be quiet.”
Rachel pulled her daughter onto her lap and kissed her cheek. “This is a grown-up conversation,” she whispered.
“Daddy says I’ll be grown soon enough.”
Leah’s heart seemed to melt at the tender sight. She smiled into the little girl’s large brown eyes. “Hey, I’m Leah. What’s your name?”
The girl leaned into Rachel’s embrace. “Ella.”
“Beautiful name. I bet you’re going to school soon.”
“Yes, ma’am. Kindergarten.”
The grandmother appeared, holding a fussing baby. “Ella, please come with me so Mama can talk to these people.”
“I like this lady.” Ella reached out her hand, and Leah took it.
“I like you too,” Leah said. “When I was a little girl, my mama always wanted me to be obedient.”
Ella turned to look at her mother, who nodded. The girl then smiled shyly at Leah. “Okay. Will you tell me bye before you leave?”
“If it’s okay with your mom,” Leah said.
Ella slipped from her mother’s lap and followed her grandmother from the room.
