Life in the Fast Lane

[ZeldaGilroy]

^WELCOME BACK!

You can't just disappear like that Denise. I understand you are busy, but you could at least drop by and let us know you're still alive!

Glad to know you are back in KS. How are you liking K-State? It sounds very busy, but exciting. Have you stopped by Topeka yet to get Chinese food at Dillons?

Anyway...I hope you can update this story soon. I've missed it. Now I am off to change my avatar...if you insist!

[ZeldaGilroy]

There...all changed. Are you happy now?

[RoryGilmore]

Originally Posted by FactsFan

There...all changed. Are you happy now?

I AM!!!!!!!!!!!

[RoryGilmore]

Originally Posted by Jo/Blair_fan

I'm BACK!!!!!!
well sorta lol, I'm sorry I haven't had the chance to work on my fic in a while. I've been busy getting myself settled in here at the dorms at KSU, and attending classes everyday. It's been kinda crazy arround here...I was sick the second week I was here so that week I was kinda out of it, then these past 2 weeks have been busy. This week will probably be just as insane as far as I can tell; 'HEAT' tonight at PJ's here in Manhattan, then get back at like 2 am and write a paper due at 12:45 tomorrow then tomorrow night drive to lawerence for gay night at a club named Chateau then get back to manhattan sometime around 5am and write up questions for another assignment thats due, finally after that I can sleep. So maybe by saturday or sunday I'll have some time to write more on the story and post somthing.

BTW: thanks for watching meghan. I was very moved by that movie, and believe me it takes a lot for a movie to move me.

Billie: I had not heard about the child in Cali who wanted to do the report on Harvey Milk and was denied the ability to do so...that is terrible! and makes me rather angry! it's also censorship and I'm assuming there will be a big deal with it involving the ACLU.

Also...get that horrible picture down!!! RICK IS TERRIBLE AND A LOOSER!!!!!!!!!!!!!! lol....PLEAZE????

I loved the movie, like i said i was pissed off at several points thoughout it.

[ZeldaGilroy]

Originally Posted by Jo/Blair Fan

I AM!!!!!!!!!!!

LOL!

[Jo/Blair_fan]

Yes B, as a matter of fact I have dropped by Topeka (on several occasions in fact. I have been in town at least once a week for the past 3 weeks now.) And yes one of thoes times I did eat Dillons chineese food and it freakin rocks!!!!!!!

btw...THANK YOU!!!! for getting that filthy avatar down lol....it's much better now!!!

[ZeldaGilroy]

^Well I'm glad you got your Chinese food Denise. I actually like the Chinese food at HyVee better than Dillons. Have you tried it?

Anyway...glad you approve of the new avatar. You better post on this fic again soon or Rick is going right back to avatar status and no one wants that now do they???

[RoryGilmore]

Originally Posted by FactsFan

^Well I'm glad you got your Chinese food Denise. I actually like the Chinese food at HyVee better than Dillons. Have you tried it?

Anyway...glad you approve of the new avatar. You better post on this fic again soon or Rick is going right back to avatar status and no one wants that now do they???

Oh god no!!! Denise please post more!

Thanks you two now I want chinese!!!

[Jo/Blair_fan]

Yea, I tried the chineese food at HyVee, I still like Dillons better. I'm sorry I have been unable to post more this weekend, when I said that, I had no idea that I was going to go Camping out at Lake Pattowatomie and then later get a MIP and a drinking in a State Park violation ticket, so yea my mind had been kinda focused on how i'm gonna get the money to pay for it all, not on writing. Again, as soon as this all kinda blows over and I tell my folks and they kill me I'll try to post some more...assuming i'm not actually dead from telling them.

[ZeldaGilroy]

^Oh no...good luck telling your parents. I'll be thinking of you.

[RoryGilmore]

Originally Posted by Jo/Blair_fan

Yea, I tried the chineese food at HyVee, I still like Dillons better. I'm sorry I have been unable to post more this weekend, when I said that, I had no idea that I was going to go Camping out at Lake Pattowatomie and then later get a MIP and a drinking in a State Park violation ticket, so yea my mind had been kinda focused on how i'm gonna get the money to pay for it all, not on writing. Again, as soon as this all kinda blows over and I tell my folks and they kill me I'll try to post some more...assuming i'm not actually dead from telling them.

Ew, well...best of luck with that.

[Jo/Blair_fan]

I'm BACK!

So, I have to call sometime this week to change my court date for my tickets, the manhattan judicial system sucks when it comes to efficiency. Aparently they don't even get the tickets untill like 2 days b4 the court date, so I have to call again this week to re-schedule my date so its not durring my final exam for my summer class. Thus I am slightly Agrivated about that. On another note though, I had an amazing day yesterday and am still floating high on cloud nine so I'm in the mood to post a little more for yall! Here's chapter 17 Enjoy!!!!!

Chapter 17
The Beautiful Letdown
Jo’s POV:
Upon arriving home I realize that I spent the entire drive trying to figure out what to do about this whole Jamie and street racing situation. I pull into the driveway and see Jamie’s car parked in its rightful place. I keep going pulling into the garage and notice Rick’s car is gone.
He must have had another gig tonight…wonder why he didn’t tell me I brush off the though. I turn off the bike but don’t get off.
She’s home…I wish I knew what to do…Mrs. Garrett would know what to do…hmm now there’s an idea.
I whip out my phone and dial the familiar number
(Phone Conversation)
“Hello” the voice answered
“Hey, Mrs. G” I smile even though I know she can’t see me
“Jo! Oh my, how are you? It’s been so long since we’ve had a chance to talk.” She begins to rant on.
“Slow down Mrs. G.” I chuckle then continue “I know it’s been a while, I’m sorry I couldn’t make the reunion.” I apologize
“That’s okay Jo; I understand your job keeps you very busy. What you’re doing is so important.” She says with pride
“I’m glad you feel that way about it.”
“Jo, You’re hiding something, you didn’t’ answer my first question.” Mrs. Garrett scolds then adds with concern “what’s going on?”
“You know me too well Mrs. G.” I sigh “It’s Jamie.”
“Is she okay? Is she wanting to run off to marry some sailor? Oh dear is she hurt?”
“She’s fine, perfectly healthy as far as I know, and I don’t think she’s planning to make the same mistake I almost made” I chuckle “It’s another kind of problem.” I continue and recant the information I came across regarding Jamie’s involvement with the street racing sceene.
“Well, first of all isn’t that street racing thing dangerous?” Mrs. Garrett asks concerned.
“It can be, the case my partner and I are working on is about 2 teens that were killed because someone tampered with their engine before a race.” I explain. “I don’t think Jamie is that far in, nor do I think she’s racing…yet.” I sigh
“Have you said anything to her yet?” She asks
“No, we haven’t been home at the same time long enough to talk yet. And I’m not sure if confronting her is the best option. Remember how I reacted to my mom sending me away to get me away from Eddie.” I remind her
“Yes, I remember that very clearly. You were a riot.”
“I wasn’t that bad? Was I?” I laugh
“I do believe so dear. Are you concerned that confronting Jamie will only drive her toward street racing?”
“Yea, that’s part of it. The other part is telling Rick. If I don’t confront Jamie; Rick doesn’t need to know. He and Jamie have been at each others throats lately. I think she resents him for being gone so much with his music, and I think I’m starting to as well.” I let my voice fade off
“Jo, you know secrets don’t make friends, let alone a good marriage. Though I can see how it may be hard for you to see that right now and I can see where you’re coming from in regards to telling him about Jamie. How would you feel if he were to keep a secret like this from you? I don’t think you would like it, which is why I think you should tell Rick, and the two of you should talk to Jamie together.” She suggests. Then adds “As for Jamie and Rick I’m sure they will work things out. Do you remember how much you resented your dad for not being able to spend time with you? Especially when he was in prison? You eventually forgave him and the two of you grew close again. I’m sure Jamie is feeling a lot like how you did back then, they will eventually grow back together, you’ll see.”
“You’re probably right, I guess her and I really are too similar” I chuckle, then my concern for the situation at hand returns to me “What should Rick and I say to her?” I inquire
“Maybe you could tell her you saw her there then explain the dangers of the situation. Then a light punishment, just enough to teach her a lesson and she’s a smart girl, when she thinks about what she’s doing she’ll change her mind…hopefully.” Mrs. Garrett responds to the question.
“I’m still not sure about involving Rick, but your idea gave me another idea. Thanks Mrs. G. you’re the greatest! What would I do without you?” I exclaim
“You’d be just fine sweetie.” She says in her motherly fashion.
“Thanks, Mrs. G. It was great talking to you! I’ll to try and make it to New York sometime soon; I miss you and the girls.”
“We miss you too! I’m sure the other girls would like to see you as well, but if you can’t get off of work, maybe this time we could take the Reunion to LA. I heard Blair and Tad talking about starting another Inn in LA.”
“That would be fantastic!” I grin “Let me know when you know more. Sorry to cut this short Mrs. G, but I’ve got to go.” I frown
“Ok Jo, It was nice to hear from you. Stay safe!” She reminds
“Bye Mrs. G” I hang up the phone.
I stay out in the garage for a few moments more trying to figure out the last details of my plan.
Now, all I need is that file.
I shuffle around in my saddle bags and grab the file I was looking for. Grabbing the file I head inside the house. I lay the file down on the coffee table, opening up the contents so it looks as though I’m working on it here at home. I make my way upstairs to the master bedroom where I change out of my work clothes into a pair of old ripped jeans and a t-shirt. “Ah comfort” I sigh aloud. I leave the bedroom and walk down the hall to Jamie’s room.
“Jamie?” I call, while knocking on the door.
I hear her heavy footsteps making their way to the door and watch it swing open. “Would you mind helping me out on a case? I need a second opinion.” I ask
“Sure mom. I love helping out on your cases.” She smiles and follows me down to the family room where I have my file laid out on the coffee table.
She takes a seat in the armchair beside the sofa where I have taken up residence.
“So, whatcha workin’ on?” She asks
“It’s about these two teens that were in a car accident.”
“Why do you need my help? That sounds like an open-shut case?” she asks confused.
“You didn’t’ let me finish. There were extra factors that were involved in the incident.” I start to explain but am cut off again.
“Like alcohol or something?” She asks
I glare, frustrated “would you please let me finish a sentence?”
She nods. And I continue
“The two teens were involved in a race and the Lab results show that the engine had been tampered with. We’re not sure what exactly was done to it but the car stalled out and slammed into a cement wall. Both teens died.” I explain sneaking glances at her hoping she’ll show some sign of fear or guilt.
If this works, maybe I can scare her away from the scene or guilt her into a confession…hope this works. Rick will never have to know…yeah this might just work.
“So someone rigged the race? Like murdered them to win?” she asks for clarification.
“That’s what we’re trying to figure out.” Well that’s not exactly what we think is going on…but she doesn’t need to know that, this will probably scare her more anyways. “It’s terribly sad that these two teens were killed all in the name of some stupid race. Imagine how their friends and family’s are feeling right now. It must be devastating to find out your son or daughter died because someone else didn’t want to loose a race.”
“..yeah..” she says looking at the floor
Ah…success
“The other possibility we’ve come up with is that this tampering is an act of vengeance. We have a few suspects so far, but nothing concrete. I was wondering if you knew anyone at your school who is in on the whole race scene. Maybe they might know why these two kids got killed, or at least provide us with some names of someone who might.”
“um…no…not that I can think of.” She lies outright
“Oh, okay then. I guess that’s all I needed. If you come up with anything that might help with the case let me know.” I look her straight in the eyes, never letting my gaze break.
“Will do.” Her eyes shift nervously.
Now for the clincher!
“I’m glad you’re not involved in something this dangerous. It would absolutely kill me if I found out you were in some race and someone tampered with your car leading to your death. I think it would drive me over the edge. I know you’re smarter than to get involved in something that risky.” I stare at her
Jamie’s POV:
Sh*t, she knows…she must have been there staking out the case that night I was at the race. If I come clean now I probably won’t get in nearly as much trouble than if she gets Dad involved…assuming she hasn’t told him yet. No way would he let mom do this though, he’d come barging in and make a big scene yelling at me and grounding me in a rant.
“Um…yea about that…I’m sure you already know…but…the other night I wasn’t at the library with Amber. We went to a street race down in the warehouse district. I swear I didn’t race though. We just watched. I know it’s dangerous and I’m sorry that I lied to you and disappointed you. But…I loved it, the speed the atmosphere, the people! There were so many friendly people there Ma; I mean I met this awesome group of people with such amazing cars. Ashley, myself, and this new girl at school, Spencer, went to a barbeque at the Team’s house. These people are so loyal and true to each other. It’s like you and your best friends. I don’t know what to say, except that when I’m there I feel like I finally belong. Though, I’m really sorry I disappointed you and I’m sorry I lied. Please don’t make me stop hanging out with them.” I practically beg her.
“Jamie, you’re right, I did know. Kat got a picture of your plates at the race. I kept hoping you were there for another reason, but I knew I was kidding myself. I remember when I was your age I loved the rush of speed when I was riding my bike, hell I still do sometimes. Back in my day street races weren’t organized it was more of an impromptu thing and wasn’t really as illegal, there were more country roads with un-posted speed limits.” She smirks and laughs then turns serious again. “I know you like the thrill, and I guess I kinda understand that. I also know that if you’re anything like me, which you are, and I ban you from going it will only drive you towards it more. We’re stubborn like that.” She chuckles
I look on, knowing that this isn’t the end of the conversation.
“But…that doesn’t mean I’m not disappointed in you or that you’re getting off any lighter on your punishment. And I want to know more about these people you’re hanging out with, like names and I’d like to meet them as well.” She stares me down.
“Yes ma’am…Is there any chance that my punishment can be lighter if I can help you out on the case?” I ask hopefully.
“Are you trying to make a plea bargain with me? You’ve been paying too much attention to interrogation technique.” She smirks then continues. “It might help you, depends on what you know.” She teases.
”You’re cruel mom. Now I know why Kat’s always the good cop. I need her help right now.” I laugh. Then add “Give me more of the details on the case and who you’re looking at as suspects and maybe I can see if anyone knows them.” I try.
“How about I give you the list and you tell me if you know any of them. Then I’ll decide if you can tell anyone else.” She counters.
“Ok, deal.”
“Alright.” She digs around though the files and pulls out a list of names in Katherine’s handwriting. “Here you go.” She says handing me the list.
I try to read though the names but struggle to decipher Kat’s hand writing.
“Can Kat’s handwriting get any worse?” I ask while squinting to read.
“Here let me, I’m used to deciphering her writing.” She says laughing
“In no particular order: Erick Randall, Leticia Robidas, Vincent Erickson, Leon Barnes, Jesse Maloney, Dominic Toretto, Johnny Tran, Lance Tran, and Mia Toretto.” She listed the names.
No, it couldn’t be them. There’s no way any of the team would do something like this, especially Mia, she’s too kind and gentle. She wants to be a doctor and help people. She would never want to see someone get hurt, and wouldn’t let anyone in her family do it either…It’s gotta be one of those other names mom mentioned. But how do I get her to see this
“I think I can help you…and I think you can cross a few of those names off of that list.” I say staring at the list.
“How do you know that?” She asks suspiciously
“Um…well I kinda spent this afternoon at Dominic Toretto’s house with his team.” I squeak out
“You What???” She exclaims with eyes set ablaze
“Don’t get mad mom, they’re good people! They’re a family, just like you and me and dad.” I reason.
“Go on..” she says teeth clenched trying not to yell at me.
“Well, like I said they’re good people. You should certainly cross off Mia Toretto, she’s like Mrs. G, but a whole lot younger.” I chuckle “She wouldn’t hurt anyone who didn’t hurt her family. And she would only react to someone who hurts her family if it were an extreme event.” I say with confidence. “Trust me mom, she’s not involved in it, take her off the list. And I honestly don’t think the rest of the team is either. I know they aren’t exactly the most legal people but I don’t think any of them would stoop this low.” I deduct
“Okay Jamie, I’ll take Mia off the suspect list, but don’t let me down on this one. I’m trusting your instinct. I can’t take the rest off until we’re sure. But you can help them get off of this list, get them to talk to me. We have nothing on them that will stick right now anyways and I think if they talk to us it will stay that way.” She explains to me.
“I can try. I know they don’t like cops all that much but from what I heard Brian O’Connor, a member of the team, used to be a cop…I don’t know what made him quit though.” I supplied
“Yea, he was a cop. Toretto and the team as you called them, were supposedly involved in a string of Truck Heists back in 2001. O’Connor worked undercover infiltrating the team trying to get information. He tried to find anyone else who could be doing it other than the Team. Something happened and he went AWOL. Without his testimony the Fed’s didn’t have enough evidence to convict anyone.”
“I didn’t know.” I say dumbstruck.
“I can’t believe any of them would be involved in something like that, wow.”
“Well, we don’t know for sure, and we never will. It’s in the past, so it’s not very high up on the priority list right now anyways. I wouldn’t advise bringing it up though around any of my superiors if you want to keep your friends.” She suggests.
“Mom, are you telling me to withhold facts?” I question with a smirk.
“Not necessarily telling you to withhold facts, more like accidentally forget them until this case is solved and everything has blown over.” She smiles.
“Who knew my own mother, a cop, would be this cool!” I exclaim and hug her
“Don’t tell anyone at the station...not only will I be in deep sh*t, but it would ruin my Bad A$$ reputation!”
I laugh at her statement and nod “I promise. So is this gonna lighten my punishment?”
“A little. 1 week no internet except for school use…and don’t think I won’t be checking, no video games, no cable TV all you get are rabbit ears.” She lists off my punishment.
“That sounds fair.” I agree knowing that I was getting a great deal. Besides I can go use the internet and watch cable TV at Ashley’s house.
“Does dad know?” I ask secretly hoping he doesn’t.
“No, I haven’t gotten a chance to tell him.”
“Could you not tell him?” I plead
“Jamie, you know your father and I don’t keep secrets from teach other.” I remind her
“Then where is he right now?” I counter
“I don’t know, probably a gig?” She suggests.
“Yea…no secrets…”I say skeptically
“Jamie…”she warns
“Okay….just please don’t tell him…you’ve already punished me, no sense in worrying him. I promise I won’t let him in on the fact I’m being punished.”
“I’ll think about it.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Feedback Plz!

PS: BTW B, the Dillons here in Manhattan has a chineese Kitchen in it too!!!

[ZeldaGilroy]

Oh I loved it! I thought it was great that Jo called Mrs. G for advice...and then didn't follow it! Typical Jo! I was also glad Jamie cofessed and hopefully will not get herself in too much more trouble (but I'm not counting on that one.) And I am wondering where you are heading with Jo and Rick...hmmmm??? I know you wouldn't possibly want to break that lovely couple up would you?

WELCOME BACK for good this time! I hope you will post more soon! I've missed this fic.

How many times have you eaten at Dillons now?

[RoryGilmore]

Okay I'm talkign to you on facebook now but that doesnt mean I cant post here too right


Like Billie said, WELCOME BACK!!! You better stick around this time this disappearing stuff isnt nice!!!!

Excellent post I'm really glad Jamie came clean and that Jo called Mrs. G for advice. I hope you get over your writers block soon and post more