Love UnExpected (Love's Improbable Possibility)
Love Belvin
Love Acknowledges:
Love’s Betas: My first official audience. Thank you! And to Kelly, Tondi, Karmen (L.I.P.’s Marketing VP – 300…400 Like marks), Patrice, Angela (book club junkie) and Yorubia, thank you for your assistance in promoting the L.I.P. series. You ladies rock!
Tina Baker: You may not consider it much, but I appreciate the time you took, on several occasions, to offer resources and advice. It is my prayer that one day I can return the favor in any form presented. God bless you!
Marcus Broom of DPI Designs: Thanks for your talented artistry.
Brandy of Momma’s Books: I have no words! When you come across absolute strangers in your pursuit of success and they enthusiastically take you to the next level, giving your career a boost, you must know that it’s God-orchestrated. It’s His favor. Thank you soooooooooooo much!
Tanya Keetch - The Word Maid: Thanks for your editing services as well as linking me into your circle. You have the warmest energy. Thanks for everything!
In-house editor - Zakiya Walden of I’ve Got Something to Say Incorporated: Your tireless dedication to our team has been nothing short of rare blessing. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, boss (insider)!
Juaquanna Gaines-Sams: You have been more than a friend – try a manager, a designer, an editor and my first L.I.P. fan! I’m just glad you haven’t cut your fangs into anyone yet. LOL!!
MDT: The depth of our partnership is so precious…when people see me shine they are experiencing the inner glow that you ignite with your unwavering dedication. #TeamMKT
To my Master, my Jireh, my Rohi, 2 Corinthians 9:10-15. Your praise shall forever be in my mouth.
Chapter 1
James Lombardi
I was in my cubicle when Munick came over and banged on the cube wall requesting an update on the Harrison case.
“So, you want a search warrant to look at Harrison’s phone records?” Captain Munick murmured tentatively.
“Yes, I can take it to Judge Warren before he leaves for vacation today if you can sign off right away,” I answered, masking my exasperation.
“Is it imperative that you look at those? Don’t you have a CI or something you can work with?”
I knew Munick had still been reluctant to investigate his buddy but he had to look past that and do his job. Darryl Harrison was a corrupt motherfucker who needed to be put behind bars with the rest of his hoodlum associates! Munick would just have to suck it up.
“The CIs I have cannot connect Harrison to Jacobs. They can only tell me about Jacobs’ associates. I need more access to get the evidence.” I omitted the truth, which was I hadn’t been able to get anything on Jacobs either. I’d only had a statement from an incarcerated underling that Jacobs ran the operation and was partners with Harrison.
“Well damn it, Lombardi!” Munick screamed until he realized the level of sensitivity that had to be used with this case and lowered his voice. “…what evidence do you have to get the fucking warrant from the judge?” he continued, getting in my face. It was obviously forgotten that I am a competent and decorated detective. Though I may have been getting off to a slow start, with persistence, dots would start connecting in this case.