Mac pulled into his complex as Keely began speaking to Carson to update him on what they’d discovered, thanks to Rocco. She remained in the truck and finished the conversation while Mac retrieved what hopefully would be solid evidence against Pearson.
As they drove to the police station, he told her he’d called Greg Craft, who would meet them, as well.
They pulled up to a light and Mac exhaled a long breath. “I can’t believe how fast everyone came. Dropped whatever they were doing.”
“That’s what friends are for,” Keely said gently, reaching for his hand. “There may be more than three of us but we keep to the musketeers’ motto—all for one and one for all. You’re a part of us, Mac, in good times and bad.”
“It’s a good group to be a part of,” he said gruffly, the rough edge in his voice betraying the strong emotions simmering under the surface.
They reached the police department, pulling up at the same time Greg did. Mac introduced them and Keely told Greg how happy she was to meet him.
“Mac speaks very highly of you,” she said. “Thank you for coming.”
“Mac was my best non-com officer ever, hands down. I’d do anything for this guy. I’m happy to make your acquaintance, Keely.” Looking to Mac, he asked, “What’s this about?”
“You’ll see.”
They entered the station and after giving their names, a desk sergeant led them to a conference room where Scarlett and Rocco waited. Once they seated themselves, a stocky man with blond hair and a surfer’s tan entered. He kissed Scarlett on the cheek and then looked at the others.
“So, what favor are you calling in, Scarlett?” He looked to Keely and pointed. “I know you. You’re a damned good actress, Ms. Kennedy.”
Scarlett introduced everyone except Greg, who spoke up for himself and revealed he hadn’t a clue why he was here, only that he’d come at Mac’s request.
“Have a seat, Harry, and let me lay out for you what I’ve got.”
Methodically, Scarlett went through what had happened. Harry took brief notes as she spoke. When she finished, she turned to Greg Craft.
“Do you have contact information for Kellen Pearson?”
Greg had already called it up on his phone and rattled off Pearson’s address and phone number and then said, “I may know who the woman is.”
Clinton looked up with interest. “Go ahead.”
“About two weeks ago, Kellen brought a blond with him when he came in for us to discuss an upcoming stunt. She sat in the corner and spent the entire time on her phone but I got a good look at her.” He turned to Mac. “Do you mind if I see one of the photos?”
Mac called up the pictures and passed the phone to Greg, who nodded. “Same hair color and length. Same body type. Without seeing her face, I couldn’t swear in court it was the same woman but Kellen ID’d her as his girlfriend. He changed his home address a few months ago so I’m assuming he moved in with her. Her name’s Autumn Humley.”
Clinton made a note and put his pen down. “I’ll have our lab run the beer bottles for fingerprints and drug residue. I can pull Mac’s prints and Kellen’s from the database since they both were active military.” He looked to Rocco. “I’ll need you to make a statement. I can get another detective to take that now. Let’s get you set up and I’ll hand off the bottles at the same time. Be back in a few.”
When the detective returned, he told them, “I’ve submitted a search warrant for the Pearson/Humley address. Confirmed from their drivers licenses that they reside at the same address. The search will also include their cars. Scarlett, you can contact Hollywood Hit List and tell them if they run the story tomorrow, they’re in deep legal shit. Drop my name and let them know the images are part of a criminal investigation and illegally obtained. The seller didn’t have the rights and they need to sue to get their money back.”
“What about the two tabloids?” Scarlett asked.
“I’ll make the call now,” Clinton said. “They’ll back off.” He looked at Mac. “I know you’re uncomfortable about the entire situation but I’m gonna need your phone and see those pictures. I want to match your number and the pictures to Pearson or Humley’s phones or any burners in their possession.”
Mac unlocked his phone and handed it to the detective, who scrolled through the pictures and texted them to his own phone.
“Okay. I’ll be executing the warrant as soon as I get a judge’s signature. Mac, there’s some paperwork to fill out for the complaint you’re lodging and then you and Keely are free to leave.”
“I’ll stay,” Scarlett said. “I’ve got some work to catch up on. Can I do it here, Harry?”
“Sure. I’ll be gone a few hours and will touch base with you when I get back.” Clinton stood and offered Mac his hand. “I’m sorry this happened to you, Mac. It’s a price that’s unfortunately paid when fame comes knocking on your door. Let me get you the documents.”
Mac filled out the paperwork and left it with Scarlett, who said she’d be sure it went to the proper person. He thanked her again and Keely hugged her.
“Are you headed to the hospital?” Scarlett asked.
Keely looked to Mac and he nodded.
“Let me know when Little Monroe arrives,” her friend said.
They walked out with Greg, thanking him for his time.
“I’m sorry Kellen pulled this crap,” Greg said. “I’d like to wring his neck.” He looked at Mac. “You keep me in the loop, all right? And take care of this little lady.”
“I will,” Mac promised.
They returned to his truck and she said, “If you want, you can drop me back at Knox’s and I can get my car. I know you’re probably still a little shaky physically and need your rest.”
“Nah. I’ve functioned with a lot less sleep before.” He grinned. “Besides, I’m pretty excited about seeing this baby.”
Keely searched his eyes. “Do you want us to have children, Mac? We’ve never talked about it.”
He cupped her cheek. “I’d like nothing better than half a dozen little girls who look like you bossing me around.”
Mac leaned into her and pressed his lips against hers. The kiss was long and sweet.
“What if we have boys?” she countered when he pulled away.
“I can handle a few boys. I guess it’s our job to give Bruiser and this new baby girl some playmates.”
A rush of love for this man swept through her. She grinned. They were going to have babies. Lots of them.
Mac started the truck. “Which hospital?”
Keely gave him directions and then texted Sydney, asking what floor they were on. They found a parking spot and opted to take the stairs since too many people waited at the elevators. Emerging on the fourth floor, they saw Knox step from a door and head toward them.
“Give us an update,” Keely said.
He took her arm. “Sydney and Cassie are in here,” and led them to a small lounge.
Both women stood expectantly as they rounded the corner.
“We’re getting close,” Knox told them. “London’s at eight centimeters. Jo’s giving her last-minute advice. I’ve got to get scrubbed now and in a gown and head thing. Next time you see me, I’ll be a dad to the prettiest baby girl in the world.”