Walking the Blue Line.
Every rookie police officer knows the dangers of the job by the second week under their training officer. By the end of their training every rookie understands that there are something they can’t control, and not all crimes will be solved. Though all rookies share the same dream. Their first assignment following training. For 21 year old Officer Joe Cartwright of the Baltimore PD that dream is to be a member of the Mounted Patrol. What he got would lead to a life changing path.

Chapter 2
The sting begins.
Oceanside Park, 9:30 pm.
After a quick trip to electronics Joe was wired up with a hidden microphone, and minicamera. From there he joined the detectives of Vice in their squad room for an operation briefing. He was surprised to learn that there would be six undercover detectives shadowing his every move. At no time would he be on his own. He also learned that if he was approached by someone other than a detective he was to take them to the Starlight Motel. There the John would be arrested while Joe would return to the stroll after a twenty minute break.

To insure his cover Joe took the bus to the Oceanside park. It didn’t take Joe long to find where the hookers had set up their stroll. It was in an area near the main drag on the south end of the park. As Joe neared the girls he notice that most of the pros working the stroll could be doing this as a high end call girl. The biggest clues was the way they dressed and did their makeup. The hookers at Oceanside presented themselves as real women, not drag queens on the prowl.

“You’re new around here sweetheart?” Said one of the more experienced hookers as Joe neared them. Joe took in the older woman’s body and could tell that she had, had a hard life. Joe figured that she was in her late 30s to early 40s. That was old in the life of a hooker.

“You could say that. My name is Josephina Espina.” Joe said as he held out his hand.

“Listen up Chica I suggest you move over to nineth and Broadway unless you want your ass beat. We got enough competition around here with your real girls give us any.” Said another hooker. This one was African American in her late 30s.

“Then I guess I’m on the right stroll. The whores over on nineth told me I needed to be over here.” Joe told her bluntly then sighed at the looks on the two older hookers’ faces. “Look I can prove I belong over here with you. Just point me to somewhere privet.”

“There’s a public restroom just inside the gate we can use.” The Caucasian hooker said and led the way to the public restrooms. As they walked the older hooker asked. “So where you from sweetheart? We don’t see many Latinas in these parts.”

“I was born in Buenos Aires. Me family moved here when I was thirteen.” Joe said politely.

“Nice to meet you. I’m Alice North and that’s Lexus Campbell.” Alice said introducing herself and the tall black woman. “Don’t worry her bite is worse than her bark.”

“That does not make me feel any better.” Joe told her. The worry in his voice while real wasn’t for proving he belong on the t-girl stroll, but them finding the wire. As they entered the women’s restroom Lexus double checked the stalls to make sure they were alone.

“Okay Chica. Let’s see your proof. Drop those panties.” Lexus ordered.

“Now hold on here Lex. She doesn’t need to drop her panties. She just needs to show her letter.” Alice told the younger woman as she stepped between them.

“No. It is alright. Besides, I don’t have a letter.” Joe said as he raised his skirt hem to his waist and lowered his thong panties. With his thong down around his thighs Joe untucked. “Does this prove to you that I belong on Oceanside stroll?”

“Damn girl. How long have you been on the juice and who’s your doctor?” Lexus asked in shock.

“I do not know what this juice is, but my doctor is Doctor Joaquin del Pozo over in Southie.” Joe told her as he tucked his manhood away and pulled up his thong. “Before you ask he is my uncle.”

“Is he taking any new patients?” Alice asked with real interest.

“Sadly no. He isn’t supposed to be seeing me. He is not licensed to practice in America. He gets my hormones through his connections in Buenos Aires. If he should be caught, he’d be deported. He and my family have to hard to at rebuilding their lives to endanger this by seeing more t-girls.” Joe said as he lowered his skirt.

“Is that why you’re working the stroll kid?” Lexus asked.

“Yes. I need money to buy my hormones legally. My family may agree with my choice, but they will no longer support me.” Joe told her.

“Well, if it’s money you’re looking for kiddo. You need to move your act indoors. Work the higher end hotels. Especially the ones downtown.” Lexus told her as they left the restroom.

“Lexus is kidding you Josephina. A girl like you could earn two to three times by working the hotel bars. Hell you would do better working the LBGT night clubs and bars downtown.” Alice told him as they walked back to the main stroll.

“Whatever else you do Josephina. You need to stay away from Amy Gates, Betty White, Fifi Nicks, and Sherry Addams. Those whores are nothing but trouble waiting to happen. You hear me?” Lexus said as they walked under through the park gate.

“These women, will you point them out to me?” Joe asked then explained. “I just want to know who I should avoid. Oh are there any pimps I should avoid as well?”

“Just stay north of the Johnson and Licon street intersection of the stroll and the pimps will leave you alone. As for the four Witches. Just look for the purple hair dues.” Alice told him.

“Thank you. Can you introduce me to the other girls?” Joe asked politely.

“Sure kiddo. Oh and if any of your Johns want to go to Riverside Motel. Say fuck no. The night clerk charges fifty bucks over the going rate for the room. Any other hotel it’s standard room rental. Usually around twenty bucks an hour.” Alice told her as Lexus stepped up to a car that had pulled over to the curb. “Looks like Lexus has her first costumer of the evening.”

“Fifty for a blow job, hundred for a fuck, one-fifty for both, honey.” Joe heard her say just before Lexus climbed into the car. Before the car pulled away she called out. “Get my number from Alice, Chica. We’ll meet up later for breakfast.”

“Typical Lexus, leave me with all the hard work.” Alice sighed then chuckled. “Come on. I’ll introduce you to the others.”

Over the next two hours Alice was go to her word. Joe quickly learned that most of the pros on the stroll were between 20 to 30 with Alice and Lexus being the oldest at 38. He also learned that even here among the Oceanside whores there was a hierarchy. The north end girls were all freelancers and usually earned the most money. The south end girls work for pimps and barely kept half of what they earned during the night. The funny thing was the pimps stayed away from the north end girls. It seems there was a treaty between the north end girls and the pimps. Joe learned that the north end girls once belonging to a pimp that got his throat slight one night after he beat one of the girls to death.

Joe was able to get a lot of intel on the politics of the stroll. The five times he was picked that night it was by one of the undercover detectives. This usually happened when the batteries were running low, or the recorder was close to reaching full and needed to be downloaded. Joe was more than happy to go with the detective. As cute as his outfit might have been. It wasn’t warm by a long shot. Joe would always huddle next to the hotel heater they were using for their base of operations. Though he didn’t get to enjoy the warmth for long and was back out working the girls.

Just after changing out the recorder at midnight Joe had the detective drop him back off at the southern half of the stroll. As he worked his way back north Joe quickly spotted another main deference between the two groups. The southern girls were all much younger. Six of the girls were in their teens. Joe made sure to get their names. If nothing else he could get the detectives to pick them up and get them into a home.

“Yo bitch! Whatcha ya doing working my stroll whore?” A tall Irish male in a suit shouted as he stormed up to Joe in a menacing manner.

“I’m just passing through senior. I’m on my way to join my friends on the north end. Now please get out of my way.” Joe said calmly knowing that help was just around the corner if he needed it. Not that he would. He was a trained police officer not to mention he had hand-to-hand combat training if push came to shove.

“Not before you pay a tax for working my stroll whore. I think half of what you’ve made tonight will be enough.” The Irishman said as he reached for Joe’s purse.

“Big mistake, babaca.” Joe snarled and grabbed the man by his wrist. A fast twist and hip throw later the Irishman was on his belly as Joe twist the arm in an unnatural way. “Se você colocar as mãos em mim de novo, idiota. Eu rasgo no ombro e bato em você até a morte com ele, idiota. Entender ou preciso usar carrons e soletrar?”

“What did she say?” The Irishman grunted in pain.

“She said if you ever put your hands on her again. She would rip it off at the shoulder and beat you to death with it Red. She also asked if she needed to use carrons to spell it out for you.” A tall black man said as he approached them. “Personally senorita I could care less if you killed the dumb Mick, but it would be bad for business. Blood shed brings in the cops.”

“So long as he understands that I will not be manhandle by some pimp.” Joe snarled.

“I’ll keep him off your back senorita. But I suggest you get back to your end of the stroll.” The man said with a friendly smile.

“Obrigado senhor. I was on my way there when this fool accosted me.” Joe said and let Red go.

“Think nothing of it little lady. If you ever change your mind about wanting a pimp look me up. The name’s Domino Jones.” The big man said as he helped Red off the ground. “Just ask any of the girls working this part of the stroll. I could always use a classy girl like you in my stable.”

“I’ll remember.” Joe said and starting walking for the north end. As he walked Joe picked up more names and spotted the four Witches as they were called. Joe could tell that these four whores did more than just prostitution. They were also dealing drugs. They were the main dealers. He spot another three prostitutes who were dealing drugs. Though the four Witches were the ones dealing Twist Blue. By the time Joe reached the north end he knew he had to pass on this intel. As he cross the street Joe whispered into his mike. “Spanish rice.”

Joe knew that the code phrase would have a detective picking him in minutes. So he slowly walked towards where Alice was standing. “Damn girl. You took the long way back to us. did any of the pimps give you a hard time?”

“Some sorry Irish puta tried to shake me down, but I kicked his ass.” Joe told with a grin.

“Damn you kicked Irish Red McFeeters’ ass?” Asked a prostitute named Cherry then grinned as Joe nodded. “I got to say Chica you got a pair of balls on you.”

“Me papa taught me how to fight before we ever left the barrio in Buenos Aires. I dealt with nastier men than him before I was ten.” Joe told them as she spotted the unmarked car coming down the street. When the detective pulled over and rolled the window Joe smiled.

“I would love to stand here and talk but I still need to make rent.” Cherry said and walked over to the car. A few second later she turned around to Joe. “Josephina you to an all nightery?”

“Sure. So long as he can pay.” Joe called out.

“He’s got the cash sweety.” Cherry said as she walked back over to him. “You owe me half.”

“Don’t worry I’ll get you at least two hundred for the hookup.” Joe told her and headed for the car. Once inside and the detective pulled away Joe got down to business. “Head for the hotel. I got a led on whose dealing the Twisted Blue. I also might know who the supplier is.”

“Holy shit rookie. You’ve got to be fucking kidding me.” The detective said in surprise before he introduced himself. “Oh the name is Jake Trapper.”

“Joe Cartwirght but for now just call me Josephina.” Joe said then pointed towards the four Witches as they neared them. “See the four purple haired hookers? They’re the main dealers of Twisted Blue. There are another seven or eight drug dealers, but they mostly sling week or pills.”

“Jesus Christ on a crutch rookie. Do you realize that you’ve learned more in one night then the whole squad has learn in six months?” Trapper asked in amazement.

“Trust me detective. I earn this intel the hard way.” Joe grumbled as he rubbed his left foot. “My feet are killing, and my ass feels like it is frozen solid.”

“Well don’t worry kid. You don’t have to go back out tonight. As far as the pros know. You just picked up an all-nighter. Do worry if you go back out tomorrow night I’ll make sure Sue has something that is more appropriate for the weather.” Trapper told Joe.

“I don’t see how you can swing that Detective. We don’t have much of a budget for this op.” Joe figured he should point out how much a shoestring this operation was running on.

“We took down a stash house six months ago. We seized three quarters of a million in cash during the raid. If the Lt. won’t put the paperwork for those funds I will. What you did tonight would more than cover the usage of that money.” Trapper practically snarled.

“Thanks detective. By the way. I can I make a suggestion.” Joe said with a grin.

“Sure kid. What’s on your mind?” Trapper said as he turned down a side street.

“Ditch the sedans for any further operations. The pros notice things. They were already talking about the number of hookups I had with guys in sedans.” Joe told him as they pulled into the hotel parking lot. “I thought we were heading back to the stationhouse?”

“We are, but first we need to fill Ramsy in on what you learned.” Trapper told him as he parked.

A few minutes later the whole surveillance team was gathered in the small room. When Ramsy found out what Joe had learned she called everyone else in. “Okay Josephina the floor is yours.”

“Thank you ma’am. First off you were wrong about the number of dealers. There are a total of seven pros dealing drugs. However only four of them are dealing Twisted Blue. The rest are sticking to weed and pills. All four of the Twist Blue dealers work for a pimp called Irish Red McFeeters.” When Joe mentioned the name Ramsy wasn’t the only one to groan. “I take it he’s on your radar for a while?”

“You could fucking say that Josephina. We’ve lost count of the times we’ve hauled his ass in on pimping, promotion, and pandering. Only to have the case fall apart before it ever gets to trial.” Lt Wetmore explained for Joe. “Are you sure he is the supplier?”

“Yes sir. Only I doubt that he’d let me near his stash house. I kind of tried to break his arm earlier.” Joe said with a deep blush.

“I thought you were going to rip it off.” Another detective chuckled then explained when the Lt and the others looked over at him. “Red tried the old tax bit on our bate and she pulled some crazy martial arts shit with a flip and twist to put him on the ground hard. Where did you learn that?”

“Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. I spent three tours in the Sand Box before joining the Baltimore PD.” Joe told him then chuckled at the looks of surprise on everyone’s face. “What can I say. I was walking a beat either in Afghanistan or at Fort Bragg long before I ever walked one here.”

“Where are you from originally rookie?” Trapper asked for everyone.

“Believe it or not Detectives. Right here in Maryland. I was born and raised in Frostburg. Don’t let this disguise fool you.” Joe told them honestly. He didn’t go into the story of his disguise. Not that he needed to thanks to Lt. Wetmore.

“Drop it people. This is nothing more than Alex and his crew working more of their magic.” The Lt told everyone present. Joe watched as the gather detectives nodded their heads. “Good. Officer Cartwright what can you tell us about their operation?”

“From what I was able to observe it’s a three part system. A buyer pulls to a stop in front of the four Witches. They take the order and money then car pulls down the street to a second girl who holds the drugs. That girl hands over the drugs. Only she doesn’t hold the drugs until the delivery. The drugs are delivered to the holder by a runner.” Joe informed the detectives.

“Mother fuck. You gathered more information on this organization in one night that we’ve been able to collect in six months. I feel like a damned rookie.” Wetmore grunted.

“Boss it’s worse than that. In one night Officer Cartwright was able to single out seven unknown dealers and at least four potential suppliers.” Ramsy told him as she stood up. “Look it’s going on two in the morning. Why don’t we pick this up in the bullpen this afternoon.”

“Sound good Ramsy.” Wetmore said before turning to Friday. “Friday give our UC a lift home tonight and pick him up in the morning.”

“Yes sir. Come on Josephina let’s get you off the streets.” Friday said as he held out hand.

“Before we go sir. There is something you should know. There are several underage t-girls working the stroll for some pimp called Baby Boy.” Joe told the Lt.

“Shit. That complicates things. If there’s minors working the stroll Special Victims needs to be notified.” Lt. Wetmore snarled then asked. “Are you sure they’re minors?”

“As sure as I could be without carding them.” Joe snapped.

“Take it easy Officer. I’m not questioning your id. I just need to know for sure that there’s minors on the stroll. If there are then our whole operation could be fubar before we get going good.” Wetmore explained slowly trying to calm down the younger officer.

“I don’t understand sir. Just notify DCW and let them pick the kids up. No problem.” Joe snorted.

“It’s not that simple Joe. If the minors are working the stroll then we’re looking at the trafficking of a minor on top of the drug dealing. Which means SVU and more chances of your cover getting blown. Which means the FUBAR factor just jumped to BOHICA.” Wetmore told him.

“I got an idea boss. Why don’t we pull a sweep and arrest everyone on the stroll. We even snap up our UC. It’ll give her more credit with the pimps. Once we have everyone downtown we run them. When the minors can’t provide proper id we turn them over to DCW.” Friday suggested.

“That sounds like a plan. Put together a plan and bring it to me in the morning. If I can swing it we pull the sweep on Saturday. For now everyone head home and get some sleep. Good work Cartwright.” Wetmore told them as he left the room.

“Friday go ahead and head home. I’ll take care of Josephina.” Ramsy said as the exited the room.

“Thanks Kelly. Barb has been getting on my ass for all the late nights.” Friday said as he headed for his car at the far end of the parking lot.

“Come on Joe. Let’s get you home and out of the cold.” Ramsy said and pointed towards her car.

“Sounds go to me. Is there any chance of Sue getting some leg warmers or thigh-high thermal socks?” Joe asked her as they head for her car.

“Don’t worry. Before you go back out you’ll be better equipped for the cool.” Ramsy promised. As they drove through town towards Joe’s condo he brought up a new topic.

“Say Ramsy have you looked into any connections with the downtown hotels?” Joe asked her.

“Can’t say that we have. Why?” Ramsy asked.

“Earlier in the evening. One of the girls suggested that I work the hotel bars. Hell one of the pimps even offered to step me up in one of the hotel lounges.” Joe explained for her.

“If the pimps are the ones supplying the Twisted Blue. We might go that route.” Ramsy suggested.

“They are. Especially McFeeters and if I’m right a mook named Little Tony Biggalo.” Joe told her as they pulled on to his street. “Stop at the next corner. I can walk from there.”

“Are you sure about this Joe?” Ramsy asked as she took in the neighborhood. While not exactly middle class it wasn’t slum territory either. “From the looks of things they’re still generifying your neighborhood. You going to be safe?”

“Ramsy I’m safer here than I was on the stroll. While I don’t know my neighbors, I do know the neighborhood. Believe it or not, there has been a major upswing in the number of LGBTQ couples and families moving in. As for the criminal element. Let’s just say they’re moving out. Slowly but surely. You’d be surprised at the number of vets among the LGBTQ community. That’s one of the reasons why I didn’t sell my grandparents’ condo when I inherited it.” Joe told her as she pulled over to the curb at the corner. “This is me.”

“What this building?” Ramsy asked point to the old warehouse.

“Yup. Twelve floors of converted warehouse. For a total of forty-eight condos. I’m on the top floor, twelve-B. Want to come up for a drink before heading home?” Joe offered politely.

“Maybe tomorrow night Joe. By the way here. Sue dropped this off for you during the shift.” Ramsy said as she pulled a duffle bag from her back seat. “She said you’ll need what’s in there tomorrow morning. Something about the essentials to get you back to the office.”

“Thanks Ramsy. Are you going to pick me up in the morning?” Joe asked he open the door.

“Sure. Why you asking?” Ramsy said.

“In the morning those doors will unlock. Come in and hit the buzzer for twelve-B and I’ll let you in. I’ll have the coffee on.” Joe told her as he got out of the car.

“See you in the morning Joe.” Ramsy called out and pulled away from the curb. As she drove passed the lobby doors Ramsy couldn’t help admiring the sight of Joe’s saying hips. “God damn. What I won’t give to tap that ass of hers. I know she’s got a cock between her legs but who cares. With a body like that I can overlook that little inconvenience. Hell it might not be so bad having a girlfriend with something especial between the legs for a change.”

Getting to know the neighbors.
Condo 12 B, Joe’s Place. 0230 am.

Joe smiled as he the elevator door open to his floor. As he walked down the hall to his condo Joe wondered what his fellow police officers would say about him owning the building. Not just one condo, but the whole building. That was the main reason why he wasn’t worried about his cover being blown by his neighbors. He had may sure that the top floor condos were all rented by LBGT couples. Yes he knew it was reverse discrimination, but it insured his safety as a cop.

The funny part about his owning the converted furniture warehouse was how he came to inherit the building. The building had originally been purchased by his great grandfather in 1951. During his time the building had used as a furniture store. Then in his grandfather’s time it was used as a self-storage center. People would rent conex containers to store their belongings. In 2018 his father had taken over ownership of the building with Joe’s two uncles. The three brothers all agreed that converting the old warehouse into warehouse condos was the best way to go. With a loan from Joe’s grandfather they converted all 12 floors.

There was only one hitch to the loan. If any brother decided to cash out before all grandchildren graduated from high school. Then the oldest grandchild would inherit the building. Not that the clause ever came into effect. Halfway through the conversions Joe’s oldest uncle died of a heart attack. Joe’s other uncle asked to be bought out by Joe’s father three weeks later. If it hadn’t been for Joe’s grandfather the renovations would never have been finished. Thankfully his grandfather had stepped in and save the project. Joe’s parents were killed by a drunk driver. Because his uncles never married that left joe as the sole heir to the building.

As he neared his door the elevator opened behind him. As much as he wanted to rush to his door he was spotted by the gay couple in 12C. “Excuse us Miss. Do you live here?”

“I’m just visiting my cousin, Joe.” Joe said quickly.

“No offence Miss, but we know for a fact that Joe Cartwright doesn’t have any cousins. Now who are you?” The smaller of the two men demanded.

“Mr. Lenwood I doubt you would believe me if I told you, but I actually do live here. I’m Joe Cartwirght.” Joe told him with a heavy sigh.

“Bullshit. Now who are you or we call the police.” The other man said harshly.

“No bullshit, Mr. Castle. I really am Joe Cartwright.” Joe told them and pulled out the wallet with his police credentials. Flipping them open joe said. “See?”

“Hold up lady. Where did you get Joe’s credentials?” Castle demanded.

“Oh shit. I forgot I’m still wearing my disguise.” Joe sighed.

“Disguise? What do you mean by disguise?” Lenwood asked him.

“Why don’t you come inside, and I’ll explain everything.” Joe said and opened his condo’s door with the key. Both men shrugged their shoulders and followed Joe inside. Once the door was closed Joe led them over to his kitchen/dining area. “Have a seat gentlemen. Can I get you beer?”

“Wine if you have any?” Lenwood said.

“Beer is fine.” Castle answered as he looked around the apartment. “You can definitely tell that Joe is a bachelor. Not to mention straight. So you’re not his girlfriend. What’re you to him?”

“Like I said in the hallway Mr. Castle. I’m Joe Cartwright. I’m a Baltimore Police officer. I’m currently working undercover for the Vice Squad.” Joe told them as he set a glass of white wine in front of Lenwood and a Coors Light in front of Castle.

“You’ll have to forgive us if we don’t believe you. We’ll accept the fact that you can be here because you use a key to open the door.” Lenwood said bluntly before taking a drink of his wine. “Not bad. Joe has good taste in wine.”

“He also has good taste in decor for a straight guy.” Castle chuckled then turned serious. “Now what’s your real name Miss?”

“Look, I really am Joe Cartwright and I’m working undercover.” Joe sighed then remembered the chronological photos of his transformation on his phone. “I can prove it.”

After pulling out his phone Joe pulled up the photos. At first the gay couple couldn’t believe what they were seeing in the photos. By the time they were halfway through the photos both men began to believe him. When they got to the before/after comparison photo they finally accepted this beautiful Latina really was their landlord.

“Mr. Cartwright I’d like to apologize for not believing you.” Castle said only to have Joe wave his apology away.

“Please call me, Joe. Maybe I should say Josephina until this assignment is over.” Joe told him.

“Then I’m Mike, and he’s Neal.” Lenwood said with a smile then chuckled. “Though I got to say Josephina. I’m still having a hard time believing our Irish/German landlord is a cop.”

“Believe it Mike. Honestly, I never wanted to be anything else. Hell this building was supposed to be my dad’s baby.” Joe told them when onto tell the two men how he came to own the building. When he finished Joe got back to the more pressing concern. “Mike, Neal, I need you to keep what you’ve seen and heard to yourselves. I wasn’t kidding about being undercover.”

“So are you really working undercover for the Vice Squad?” Mike asked in surprise.

“Yup. I can’t talk about the case I’m working but if it got out that there was a cop working the prostitution strolls in drag. I could end up face down in the river or Chesapeake bay.” Joe told them. Both men looked at each other and nodded.

“Don’t worry honey. Your secret is safe with us. I just one question. Are your makeup artists available for privet work?” Mike asked with a grin.

“I doubt it, but they did use techniques pioneered by a firm that does privet work.” Joe said as he pulled the website for True Reflections. “Our makeup artistes use the same techniques.”

“Damn baby. If True Reflections can do this type of work. You’d be a shoe in for the Halloween Queen this year.” Neal said as he nudged Mike in the ribs.

“I got to ask Josephina. Have you ever done drag or cross-dressed before tonight?” Mike asked.

“A few times for Halloween and a couple of Comi-cons. Though I never passed this well. Most of what you see and hear is due to the True Reflections tech.” Joe admitted.

“Josephina I got to ask. What kind of case would need you to cross-dress?” Neal asked him.

“It’s a Vice and SVU case, Neal. It’s also a bad one. When it hits the papers more than one dipshit on the council will be asking questions.” Joe confessed.

“It has to deal with that fuck nut McManis pushing to clean up Oceanside Park and the Riverwalk. Doesn’t it?” Mike said out of the blue.

“Pretty much but there is a whole shit load more going Mike. Stuff that I’m not allowed to talk about. Please don’t ask any more question?” Joe pleaded.

“No problem, honey. Look we know all about OPSEC. He may not look it, but Neal was Navy Intel for eight years. I was Marine Force Recon. We know how hard it can get trying to keep your bearings when working a high stress duty. If you feel like shit is starting to too deep and need to talk. Just knock on our door no matter the time of day.” Mike told him.

“Thanks guys.” Joe said before he yawned. “Damn. The day is starting to get to me.”

“How long have you been up Trooper?” Neal asked him.

“Going on twenty-one hours.” Joe said after looking at the clock. “And I got to be up in six hours.”

“Then we’ll get out of your hair kid. Get some sleep.” Mike said as he pulled Neal to his feet. “Don’t worry about us. We’ll have your six.”

“Thanks guys.” Joe said and showed them to the door. Once he was alone Joe opened the duffle bag. Inside he found body wash, shampoo, a nightgown, clean panties, bra, leggings, sweatshirt, socks, and tennis shoes. There was also makeup, a brush, hair scrunchy, and a fanny pack for carrying his wallet, keys, and sidearm. After taking a quick shower and putting on the nightgown Joe went to bed. Joe was so tired by the time he went to bed than he was half asleep before his head hit the pillow.

Condo 12 B, Joe’s Place. 0930 am.

Joe was woken by a pressing need just after 0830 later that morning. He barely made it to the bathroom. After taking care his bodily functions Joe took a quick shower using the shampoo and bodywash Sue had packed in the duffle bag. After drying off Joe quickly dressed in the outfit Sue had sent him. The last thing he did was to use the matching scrunchy to pull his hair up in a high ponytail. Once dressed Joe head for the kitchen and the coffee pot. The pot had just finished brewing when the lobby buzzed letting him know he had a visitor.

“Jes?” Joe asked noticing his accent was thicker this morning.

“It’s me Kelly, Josephina.” Ramsy answered. Joe just sighed and pressed the release button for a count of ten letting the woman in. Joe unlocked his door and propped it open before heading back to his kitchen. After taking down two coffee cups Joe fixed his own and sat down to wait. A few minutes later Ramsy knocked on the door and called out. “Hey Josephine. You here?”

“Come on in Kelly. I’m in the kitchen. Just close the door behind you.” Joe called out and returned to his coffee. He was surprised to see Ramsy entering his condo with both arms loaded down with bags. Joe jumped up and ran to give her hand. “What the hell Ramsy?”

“Yesterday after we headed for the sting. Sue went on a shopping spree for you. All of this is for the operation. Don’t worry she used confiscated funds for everything. There’s another eight bags down in my car we need to bring up yet.” Kelly said as she sniffed the air. “Is that coffee I smell?”

“Help yourself. The cups are in the cabinet over the pot. I’ll run down and get the rest.” Joe said as he grabbed her keys off the counter. As he head for the door he grabbed his keys, so he won’t have to be buzzed in. Fifteen minutes later Joe was walking back through the door loaded down with bags from some of the best thrift shops in Baltimore. “Damn. You weren’t kidding. I got a question. From the looks of things you and the Lt are planning for this op to last a lot longer than you originally planned for. What changed?”

“Last night after we broke down Homicide got a call to Oceanside Park. One of the working girls was found with her throat slit. That’s not all. Whoever killed her rapped her with a foreign object and then gutted her. From what I understand it wasn’t pretty. The kicker is this is the forth transgender prostitute murdered in a similar manner in the last four months.” Ramsy told him.

“Shit we got a serial killer on our hands.” Joe grunted. As he picked up his coffee cup.

“It’s worse than that Joe. The hooker that was killed was part of the Twisted Blue investigation. She was one of the delivery girls.” Ramsy told him.

“Oh fuck. That’s a problem. If the murderer is targeting t-girl hookers who are dealing. We’re looking at a shit load of bodies dropping before we can roll up the drug operation.” Joe grunted.

“It’s worse than that Joe. If another body drops before we roll up our operation. The FBI could be called in. If that happens we’ll have to suspend our operation until they find their Unsub.” Ramsy said before she took a drink of her coffee. When she set the cup Ramsy reached into her purse and pulled out a pack of Moore cigarettes and a liter. “Do you mind?”

“Normally I would say no, but I can tell this has you upset. What’s going on Ramsy?” Joe asked as he go up and pulled a soup bowl from the cabinet.

“Look you did a hell of a job last night Joe, but with a serial killer targeting t-girl pros. It just got way too fucking dangerous. I already told the Lt that we need to pull you, but he overruled me.” Ramsy told him honestly as she lite her cigarette. Exhaling the smoke Ramsy looked Joe in the eye. “Joe you need to go in this morning and ask for a transfer back to patrol.”

“I appreciate the concern Kelly, but I’m going to stick it out. So what if there’s a serial killer out there. The risk is still the same. I just have to pay better attention to what’s going on around me. Besides I’m stuck like this for the next seven days.” Joe pointed out.

“I know. That’s why I got the Lt to approve the wardrobe.” Ramsy said as she pointed towards the bags lining his floor.

“If I do pull out now. What do I do next? I can’t exactly head back out on patrol like this.” Joe said as he waved at his body.

“About that. The Lt said he wanted to see you first thing this morning before we meet up with the rest of the squad.” Ramsy told him as she smoked and drank her coffee.

“When do we have to be there?” Joe asked him.

“He wants us there no later than eleven before the rest of the squad shows up around noon.” Ramsy told him with a slight smile at his grimace. “If you want I can give you hand putting this stuff away Josephina.”

“No. I’ll take care of everything before I head out this evening.” Joe told then turn pale when there was a knock at his door. “Shit. Let me take care of this.”

As Joe headed for the door the person called out. “Josephina it’s me Neal.”

“Damn.” Joe whispered and answered the door. “Good morning Neal. Is there something wrong in your apartment?”

“No, but there is a problem in the community. Can I come in?” Neal asked politely.

“What do you mean in the community?” Joe asked as he waved Neal inside.

“In the last four months someone has been targeting the trans community. Not just the t-girls working the hooker strolls either. They’ve gone after the club girls, Drag Queens and Kings, and the waitresses for the trans clubs.” Neal said as he entered the kitchen area where he spotted Ramsy. “Oh damn. I’m sorry honey. I didn’t know you had company.”

“Don’t worry Neal. You can talk in front of Kelly. She’s my immediate boss.” Joe said as he moved towards the cabinet with his cups. “Care of some coffee?”

“No thankyou Josephina. I know you cops only drink the full strength stuff.” Neal said as he held out his hand to Ramsy. “Neal Castle, of Castle and Linwood Investments, and Joe’s neighbor.”

“Detective Kelly Ramsy, Baltimore Vice squad.” Kelly said as she shook his hand. “Joe I thought no one in the building knew you?”

“Honey child, the only people in the building who know Joe is me and my husband Mike. Trust us honey there is no way we’ll talk. OPSEC was ingrained in our souls.” Neal explained for her.

“Fromer Military?” Kelly asked with a smile.

“Yup, both of us. Only in a deferent branch for our Mud Puppy over there.” Neal chuckled.

“Up yours you damned swabbie.” Joe snarked as he took his seat. “Neal you said something earlier about there being a problem among the trans community. What were you talking about?”

“I came to warn you Josephina. For the last four months there’s been a major nut job going around attacking the local t-girls, t-boys, Drag Queens and Kings. As you’re working in drag Mike and I felt you should know.” Neal told them bluntly.

“Neal what do you know about the attacks?” Kelly asked.

“Not much just that this guy has only been attacking the trans community. So far he’s attacked four waitresses, three Drag Queens, and one Drag King.” Neal told them.

“Do you know which division has been investigating the attacks?” Kelly asked quickly.

“From what I understand the SVU division. Why?” Neal asked sharply.

“This stays between us Neal.” Kelly warned only to get a nod from Neal. “Someone has been killing the t-girl hookers. So far four in the last three months.”

“Four? We’ve only heard rumors of three.” Neal said in surprise then sighed. “The bastard struck again last night didn’t he?”

“Yah. From what I understand this was the worse attack so far.” Kelly told him before turning to Joe. “Joe I know how you feel, but I think we need to pull you until they catch this nut job.”

“I’ll think about it, Kelly.” Joe told her. “Either way it doesn’t matter for the next seven days.”

“Why seven days?” Neal asked.

“Remember that website I showed you last night?” Joe asked. Neal nodded. “Well the tech can be set to last for a period of time. We set mine for seven days.”

“So you’re stuck like this until the timer or whatever runs out?” Neal asked in surprise.

“Unfortunately.” Kelly said with a soft smile. “Kicker is if we pull him from this operation. He goes back to patrol. While I have to start all over.”

“Damn. Now that sucks ass girlfriend. I wish me and Mike could help you out. I know you’re Vice. I just wish you would go after the fuck sticks who are pushing that shit Twisted Blue.” Neal told her honestly as he got up and fixed himself a cup of coffee. After tasting the dark brew Neal smiled. “Damn. This shit is so bad it reminds me of my days standing watch in the coms shack.”

“Standing watch in the coms shack? What were you Navy?” Kelly asked with a smile.

“Yup. Did eight years in Navy Intelligence with three deployments. One aboard a carrier two on destroyers. Spent more than one watch in the Coms shack.” Neal told her.

“What about your husband?” Kelly asked pointing to the wedding ring.

“Mike was Force Recon, and he won’t talk about what he did. All I know is he saw some seriously fucked up shit during his seven years.” Neal told her before taking a drink of his coffee.

“So we don’t have to worry about you or your husband talking?” Kelly asked.

“Honey child, neither me nor my husband would give out our shoe size without ten request forms filled out in triplicate, sent in, sent back, queried, lost, found, subject to public inquire, lost again, then finally buried in soft peat, before finally being used a fire starters.” Neal snarked.

“Good god my neighbor is a nerd.” Joe snarked only to get the one figure salute from Neal. The byplay between the two men had Kelly laughing. “As much as I would love to continue this Neal. We need to get going. We got to meet with are Lt.”

“Sure kid. I just wanted to warn you about what’s been happening with the trans community. I meant to mention it last night, but you were way too tired.” Neal said as he stood up.

“Before you go Neal. What can you tell us about Twist Blue?” Kelly asked bluntly.

“Well if you want to nail the four main dealers of the shit. Have your squad stake out the Subway Cabarete tonight and Friday. Those four whores and their pimp will be there front and center for the shows. They’ll also be selling that shit wholesale. You can’t miss them. They all have the same purple hair due in a French twist. That’s how you know they’re selling. If their hair is up in a French twist they’re holding and are open for business. If their hair is down their sold out.” Neal told her.

“Are you sure they’ll be at the Subway Cabarete?” Joe asked sharply.

“Kiddo they never miss Amateur Wednesdays and Open Mike Fridays. If you don’t find them there. Then head over to the Old Hunt on Saturday and the Warehouse on Sunday.” Neal told them then added. “Though they might hit up the Blue Note lounge tonight. They’re holding a fund raiser for David Snores election campaign.”

“Thanks for the info Neal. This could cut our investigation short by days.” Kelly said as she put her cup in the sink.

“No problem detective. If you want the inside shit with the LGBTQ just let Joe know or knock on twelve C. Any time of the day. Both me and my husband work from home.” Neal said as he walked towards the door. “See you tonight Josephine. Be sure to swing by the Subway before you head over to the stroll. Mike will be on the door. He works part time as a bouncer.”

“For some reason I can see that.” Joe said with a chuckle as he picked up the fanny pack. “Come on Detective. Let’s see what the boss wants.”

-----tbc-----

Walking the Blue Line.
Every rookie police officer knows the dangers of the job by the second week under their training officer. By the end of their training every rookie understands that there are something they can’t control, and not all crimes will be solved. Though all rookies share the same dream. Their first assignment following training. For 21 year old Officer Joe Cartwright of the Baltimore PD that dream is to be a member of the Mounted Patrol. What he got would lead to a life changing path.

Chapter 3
Change in plans.
Lt Wetmore’s office, 34th precinct. 11:05 am

As Joe and Kelly walked through the precinct they felt more than one pair of eyes following them. Joe wanted to laugh as they rode the elevator to the third floor. “I can’t believe those horn dogs were checking out my ass like that?!”

“Get used to it, Josephina. It’s going to happen every time you walk through the door. I much as I hate to say this. You got a better looking bod than just about every female officer on the force right now. When you add in the way you walk. Forget about it. To be blunt Officer. You’re a walking wet dream. The men want to fuck you, and the women want to be you.” Kelly chuckled as Joe turned six shades of red from embarrassment. Thankfully the elevator opened before Joe had to say thing that might increase that embarrassment.

They had barely step six feet out of the elevator before Lt Wetmore was shouting at them. “Ramsy Cartwright in my office now!”

“What the fuck is up his ass?” Ramsy mumbled as they head for the Lt’s office.

“Don’t ask me. I just the bate in this crazy scheme of yours.” Joe mumbled just before they entered the Lt’s office. To their surprise there two men in suits waiting in the office.

“Close the door Ramsy.” Wetmore ordered before saying more. When the door was closed he made the introduction. “These to two gentleman are SSA Little and SSA Shaw with the FBI’s BAU. Gentlemen these are the officers whose lives you’re about to destroy.”

“Lieutenant Wetmore we’re not here to destroy anyone’s life or your case. In fact we’re hoping they’ll be able to help us out.” Little said.

“What the fuck is going on LT?” Ramsy snarled.

“Does this concern the attacks on the transgender community?” Joe asked.

“What attacks Officer?” Shaw asked Joe.

“Besides the four murders there have been eight other attacks. Four t-girl waitresses, three Drag Queens, and one Drag King have been attacked over the last three months. Counting the murders that is a total of twelve attacks.” Joe explained for the two FBI agents.

“Do you know who’s been investigating the other attacks?” Wetmore asked.

“According to Cartwright’s CI SVU has been handling the attacks, LT.” Ramsy said.

“Whose this CI? And are they reliable?” Little asked as he pulled out a note pad.

“Don’t answer that Cartwright. Agent you know damned well that you can’t legally ask for a CI’s name. They’re a Confidential Informant for a fucking reason. As for reliability I trust my officers. If they bring me this type of intel from a CI then I trust. Especially if it is intel on a fucking murder that might be linked to a pattern.” Lt Wetmore snarled.

“Sorry Lieutenant. It’s just that we rarely have a this type of information just dropped in our laps.” Little explained for the three Baltimore cops.

“It’s okay sir. I would question my reliability too. As for where I got the information Agents I got it the old fashion way. I walked and talked my ass off last night. I learned of the attacks during the course of our investigation last night. To be blunt gentlemen. The attacks are all the hookers on the stroll are talking about. They’re even talking about how a waitress from one of the Cabaret clubs gets attack first, then a Drag Queen seven days later, then finally one of the trans whores seven days later with a fourteen day break before the attacks start over.” Joe explained for them.

“Why the hell didn’t we know about these other attacks?” Shaw demanded.

“Because I’m just finding about them myself asshole. So take a breath.” Wetmore snarled before he turned to Joe and asked politely. “Cartwright do you have any idea of why we don’t know about these other attacks?”

“It’s simple sir. The trans community don’t like talking to the cops. Nine times out of ten unless one of them is killed the cops feel they got what they deserved. It doesn’t matter if they’re lying in a pool of blood. They deserved what happened.” Ramsy told him and the two Agents.

“Then how do you suggest we handle this problem? If they won’t talk to us this nut job could keep killing.” Lt Wetmore asked.

“First give us the profile. We still put Cartwright on the street, so we don’t blow our operation. While she is working the drug trade, me and Friday work the attacks with SVU. Keep the agents in the surveillance van. Let them monitor Cartwright as she works the girls.” Ramsy said quickly.

“I don’t like putting our UC in danger like this, but it could close both cases.” Wetmore said

“Sir I won’t be in any more danger than I would be during a normal undercover operation. Though I might not be in danger. My CI also gave us a lead that could led to a massive break in the Twisted Blue.” Joe told him with a smile.

“How?” Wetmore demanded.

“Our suspects are known to hit the Subway Club on Amateur and Open Mike nights. Today is the club’s Amateur night. From what I’ve found on the web. The Subway’s amateur night is the biggest one in the area. They have a five hundred dollar grand prize. Instead of working the stroll I’ll be at the club hopefully making a buy. If we do it right we’ll nab both the four main dealers and their supplier.” Cartwright explained for Wetmore.

“Damn Cartwright. What are you trying to do? Put me and my division out of work?” Wetmore asked with a mile wide grin. “Keep up the good work Officer.”

“I told you I had more information last night, sir.” Joe pointed out with a smile.

“That you did. I just didn’t listen. What I want to know. what were my regular officers doing while you were busting your ass?” Wetmore asked of Ramsy. “Well I’m waiting Ramsy.”

“Try digging through more intel gathered in six hours than we were able to gather in six months. I swear boss. I don’t know how Joe did it last night, but he had those gals talking like she was their newest sister.” Ramsy told him honestly.

“Simple. I showed two of the grand ladies my cock.” Joe told her honestly.

“You did fucking what? Do you realize how many regulations you broke? Not to mention laws.” Wetmore snarled as he glared at Joe.

“Absolutely zero sir. Before you say otherwise there no law against me or those hookers on the Oceanside stroll using the public restrooms. In fact by law we’re supposed to use them. It’s that whole public indecency thing.” Joe pointed out for him. “So long as they use either the women’s or family restrooms. They’re not breaking the law. Despite what’s between their legs.”

“I hate to say this LT, but Cartwright is right. And for the duration of the operation he has to follow those laws. The same laws the Unsub is following.” Ramsy told Wetmore in surprise.

“Excuse me Detective. Are you saying that our unsub is using the law so how?” Little asked.

“Yes sir. Last night I noticed something when Cartwright was interacting with the gals. She never once accused the other girls of prostitution or solicitation. She asked them how their date or what their John liked. She always treated them like a fellow pro. When she talked about the drugs she never asked if they were dealing. Only where she might get a hook up. She also asked which corners she should stay away from. She asked about what bars she could work. Where to get warm during the winter or cool in the summer. Where to get something to eat late at night. Things like that. She also talked about how to avoid breaking the law. What not say to a John. What hotels to avoid. By treating them like friends Cartwright got the pros to open up to her and talk.” Ramsy explained for Little and Shaw.

“Damn. We might have to keep you Cartwright.” Wetmore chuckled.

“Sorry sir. But when this op is over I’m headed for Mounted Patrol.” Joe said with a smile.

“I already talked with Captain Higgins this morning. Mostly because I figured we might have to shut down your investigation Ramsy. But with this new information we can afford to keep it going for now.” Lt Wetmore told them then turned to the FBI agents. “You good with this is plan or do we need to shut the investigation, Agents?”

“Normally we would have you shut down your investigation until we had our suspect.” Shaw said as he thought over what they were trying to do. “But this is one time were an independent operation could actually help us. Especially now.”

“What is going on that you’re not telling our people agents?” Wetmore demanded.

“The unsub we’re looking for is most likely a white male in their late twenties. When he kills he does not kill for the purposes of torture, money or any financial gain. His method suggests he kills quickly and that the mutilation of the body was the key driving force behind the murder. He isn’t sadistic in the sense that his infliction of pain was giving him pleasure. He is out to cleanse the city of what he believes is a sickness. He incapacitates his victims first and then, once they’re down, he performs his ritual of mutilation. This suggests a killer who wants to dominate his victim with power and sexual violence. His actions show a deep resentment towards his victim where he must destroy who they are. He is what we call a purifier. Making him a mission oriented killer. What that mission is we may never know. This also makes him extremely dangerous.” Little explained for Ramsy and Joe. He then asked. “Knowing this are you sure you want to continue with your operation knowing you might be placing a target on your back?”

“Somebody has to act a bate for this sick fuck. It might as well be me. At least I stand a chance at taking him.” Joe told them. “Besides, I still have an operation to finish and a drug ring to take down. I want those fucks off the street before the ruin any more lives.”

“Okay Officer. Just remember to keep your head on a swivel.” Shaw said.

“I didn’t survive three tours of duty in the Sand Box by being stupid Agent.” Joe snarled and turned to Wetmore. “Sir if there’s nothing? I need to get ready to brief the rest of the squad.”

“Use the empty desk in the bull pen, Officer. Give him a hand Ramsy.” Wetmore said.

“Yes sir.” Kelly and Joe said at the same time and left the office. Once they were gone Wetmore turned to the two FBI agents. “You’re holding something back from your profile. What is it?”

“While the unsub isn’t a part of the LGBTQ community. He can charm is into any social group. Especially a fringe group like the transgender. He’s a real life chameleon. Officer Cartwright may have already met our unsub.” Little told him.

“Shit. Any suggestions for increasing his safety?” Wetmore asked.

“Just what you’ve already decided. Let Cartwright work the club with your Vice detectives. While they’re working the Twisted Blue case. Have SVU and Homicide work the strolls. Hopefully you’ll be able to bust whoever’s pushing the Twisted Blue in the next three to four days. Because I doubt we’ll catch a break anytime soon in these murders.” Little told him.

“Why are you saying that?” Wetmore asked.

“Because this guy is following a pattern and he is disciplined enough to not deviate. If what Officer Cartwright and Detective Ramsy found out is even halfway true. The unsub won’t strike again for another fourteen days.” Shaw explained for Wetmore.

“Fuck. Other than what you said earlier about him what else can you tell me about the unsub?” While Wetmore wanted to clean up his streets he knew he needed more to go off of as far as a description went then just a white man in his late 20s.

“He’ll be well groomed. Almost obsessed with his appearance. Even if he works in the trades. Which is doubtful. He’s most likely a white color officer worker. Holds a midlevel management position but feels like his deserves a higher position despite his education. If and this is big if he does work in the trades he’ll most likely be a freelancer or subcontractor. Most likely in the IT Field. His arrogance will prevent him from working for someone else for very long. Which is why he would hold a white color midlevel management position.” Little told him.

“How do you explain his proficiency with a knife?” Wetmore asked.

“Normally we would say the unsub has military training. Except for the methodical butchery of the bodies. It’s almost like the unsub is field dressing a dear or some other animal.” Shaw said.

“This maybe eastern Maryland but we still have a large hunting community.” Wetmore pointed out for the two agents. “If you think the suspect is field dressing his kills. Then it is a good beat that he’s doing exactly that.”

“Lieutenant you just added a totally whole new layer to our profile.” Little sighed. “The trophy collector. Whatever he’s taking from his victims is going to hold meaning for the man. A perfect example of this is the ribs that Jackson Pollman collected.”

“Ah shit. I remember that sick fuck. I was a fresh out of the academy rookie when you took him down. That was just over twenty years ago. How many bodies did you finally pin on that fucker?” Wetmore asked the two agents.

“We found thirteen, but Pollman had the ribs from twenty-seven deferent bodies. Never did find the other fourteen.” Shaw answered.

“What’s our guy taking?” Wetmore asked.

“That’s just it we don’t know. The bodies are so mutilated that it’s taking the coroner forever to process the bodies.” Little told him with a straight face.

“Fuck. Well good hunting gentlemen. I got a briefing to attend and a UC’s safety to insure. By that I mean get out of my office.” Wetmore told them.

Making friends.
The Subway Cabaret.

“Hey girl. Taking a break from the stroll?” Alice said as Joe walked down the stairs to the club.

“I thought I would check out the talent show. I heard that there’s some real talent that shows up.” Joe said as he joined her at Alice’s table.

“Depends honey child.” Lexus said as she joined them with two white wines. “I would’ve have gotten you one Josephina, but first timers have to show their id at the bar.”

“Not a problem. Be right back.” Joe told them and headed over to the bar. When he finally got the bartender’s attention he showed him his id. “A pink lady please?”

“Sure thing. That’ll be nine dollars.” The bartender said as she started mixing the drink. Joe just put away his UC id and took out a ten dollar bill. The man smiled as he set the gin and applejack cocktail in front of Joe. “One pink lady.”

“Keep the change.” Joe said as before he took a sip of the drink. “Nice. Just right.”

“Haven’t seen you around here before. You new in town?” The bartender asked.

“Just moved here. I thought I would check out the local talent show.” Joe told him.

“Danny Thorp. Student by day, bartender by night.” Danny said as he held out his hand.

“Josephina Espina, working girl by student by day.” Joe said as he shook Danny’s hand.

“I noticed that you know Alice and Lexus. We don’t mind you ladies come in. Just know that we have two rules. Rule one no turning tricks in the club. Rule two you have to drink. Can’t have you tying up a table just to get warm.” Danny told her.

“No problem. I do have one question. Do I have to turn dates away if they approach me?” Joe asked Danny politely.

“So long as you don’t actively look for work we don’t care. Just take them elsewhere.” Danny said as he used a towel to wipe down the bar top.

“Thanks Danny. I’ll keep my business to the stroll. In here I just want to have a few drinks and enjoy myself by watching a talent show.” Joe told him as he picked up his drink.

“Then enjoy the show. Next drink is half off.” Danny said as he hand Joe a white subway token. “White token are half off, blue are seventy-five percent off, and red is free.”

“Cool.” Joe said as he turned the token over in his hand. He could tell that the token was fake. On one side was printed ½ and the other was the club’s logo. Slipping the token into his jacket pocket Joe headed back to Alice and Lexus. He had barely made it halfway back when he spotted Ramsy and Friday entering the bar. Sitting down Joe asked. “Do straight couples normally come here?”

“Pretty much. Though they usually only show on amateur nights like tonight and open mike nights.” Alice explained before taking a sip of her wine.

“So long as they don’t cause problems Tim and Jackie won’t turn them away. The minute they cause problems they’re out the door. Trust me Chica. Big and little Billy can handle just about anyone who comes through that door.” Lexus said with a smile.

“Who’s Big and little Billy?” Joe asked them.

“Club bouncers. Though tonight Neal will be on the door, and David will be on the floor.” Alice said before she started to giggle. “I wonder what Willma and Betty’s act will be tonight?”

“Excuse me, but who are Willma and Betty? And what does that have to do with who is working the door and floor as bouncers?” Joe asked.

“Willma and Betty are Big and little Billy’s stage names. They don’t always join in on the fun, but when they do a drag number it’s totally worth the five buck surcharge at the door.” Alice said.

“Um I didn’t pay a surcharge when I came.” Joe said before taking a sip from his cocktail.

“T-girls, Drag Queens, Crossdressers, get in for free on amateur nights. Its half off on Fridays. Though the best night to be here is Monday from five to eight. Drinks are two for one.” A Drag Queen said as she sat down beside Joe. “Hi there cutie. They call me Connie Fidence.”

“Connie Fidence as in confidence?” Joe asked with a raised eyebrow.

“More like con artist.” Alice snarked then hugged Connie before kissing her cheek. “So where you been hiding Connie? We haven’t seen you in a dog’s age.”

“Been working down in DC for the last few months. Had to chase down a runner with a half million dollar bond. The shit bird was hiding out at his grandmother’s house.” Connie sighed and waved down a passing waitress. “A Stroh’s beer in the glass please Gretta.”

“Sure thing Connie. Just let me drop these off.” The waitress said with a smile.

“You must be a regular.” Joe said with a small smile.

“You could say that. I normally only come in on the weekend. But I heard Wilma and Betty are preforming tonight. I always show for them.” Connie answered then frowned as she spotted Ramsy and Friday. “Damn what are they doing here?”

“What’s wrong Connie? Do you see a runner?” Alice asked.

“I wish. Do you see that couple over in the corner?” Connie asked as he pointed at Friday and Ramsy. When all three nodded she continued. “That’s Detectives Kelly Ramsy and Joe Friday. They’re with Vice in the North Central district.”

“Wonder why they’re here?” Joe asked casually.

“I doubt it’s for anything good. The Vice squads normally stay out of the LBGTQ clubs. Then again we tend to police ourselves.” Connie explained.

“Could they be here on a date?” Joe asked just load enough for his wire to pick up the hint.

“Are you kidding Chica? Vice cops don’t date each other.” Lexus snorted then gapped as Friday leaned over and gave Ramsy a kiss. “Holy shit!”

“Maybe they are here on a date.” Alice grunted in surprise. Before asking Joe. “Why did you guess they were on a date Josephina?”

“Back in Buenos Aires the polícia would go to LGBT clubs if they were dating another officer. This way they could keep their romance quiet until they were ready to marry.” Joe quickly explained hoping to through of Alice’s suspicions.

“I hate to say this, but that sounds right for those two. They would know which clubs they could go to and not get beefed for being together by other cops.” Connie said with a thoughtful look.

“They do make a good looking couple. I would never have guessed they were police.” Lexus said as she watched the two detectives. “They certainly look like they’re dating. Why would they want to keep things on the down low?”

“Politics Lexus. Departmental Politics.” Connie sighed as Gretta returned with her beer. “Thank you Gretta. Has the couple over the corner ordered yet?”

“Yup. One G-and-T, and an Irish on the rocks. You want to back them up?” Gretta asked.

“No. I was just wondering.” Connie said as she placed a twenty on her tray. “Keep the change.”

“Okay Connie what was that all about?” Lexus asked her.

“Normally cops don’t drink if they’re on duty. Seeing as how they both ordered cocktails they’re most likely off duty.” Connie explained. “Still I suggested you stay off the nose candy Alice. They see you snorting a line or two. They’ll have to run you in.”

“Shit. Then you better stop the Four Witches at the door. They’ve been dealing Twisted Blue. They’re sure to have at least dealer wait on them.” Alice told Connie.

“Sorry not my circus ani’t my monkeys. If they’re stupid enough to deal in front of a pair of Vice cops. Then they’re too stupid to stay out of jail.” Connie snorted before taking a drink of her beer. “You forget I make a living off dumbasses who break the law.”

“Excuse me, Connie, but what do you mean?” Joe asked her.

“I’m a bail bondsman. That’s how I know Alice and Lexus. I bailed them out a few years ago. The best part is they always pay the bail and don’t try to run.” Connie said with smile. “They’re some of my best repeat customers.”

“No surprise there. At least you don’t over charge the girls working the strip like the other bondsmen.” Alice said as Amy Gates, Betty White, Fifi Nicks, and Sherry Addams walking into the bar. They weren’t alone either. A well-dressed older gentleman in his mid-60’s accompanied them. Joe could tell that the man’s suite was tailor made and cost at least three hundred dollars. “Ah shit. They would have him for a lawyer.”

“Who is he?” Alice asked before Joe could.

“Robert Thorton of Thorton and Brown attorneys at law. They handle some of the biggest scumbags in the city. I talking about a real who’s who of drug dealers, mob guys, and biker gangs. If those four are dealing drugs then they’re dealing for either Koskov Georgiyevich or the Dead Demons MC. Not fucking good.” Connie said as they watch the four t-girls and their lawyer take one of the tables near the stage. “That’s strange.”

“What’s wrong Connie?” Lexus asked Connie with real curiosity.

“If they are dealing then they just did the stupidest thing in the world. Everyone and their fuck buddy can see what they’re doing.” Connie said as she opened her purse and took out a silver and black cigarette case with matching liter. As she opened the case Joe noticed the business cards on the back side of the case. Joe personally knew the drag queen sitting next to him.

“Nice business cards, Connie.” Joe said hoping to redirect the conversation. The last thing Joe needed was for retired Major Crimes Detective Marten Flex getting involved in his operation.

“Thanks.” Connie said as she lite up a cigarette. Taking one of his cards out Connie handed it to Joe with a smile. “Call me if you ever get picked up. I’ll give you the friends and family discount.”

“Thank you. I will.” Joe said as he put the card in his purse. He had barely closed his purse than the MC took the stage. “Looks like the show is about to start.”

“Ladies and gentlemen welcome to the Subway Cabaret. I’m your hostess this evening, Trixie Foxx.” The MC said as she stood center stage just before the opening notes to "Willkommen" came from the club speakers. A song from the 1966 musical Cabaret. At first Joe expected the MC to lip sync so he was surprised to actually hear the drag queen singing.

“This must really be your first time.” Connie said as she leaned over next to Joe.

“Yes it is. How could you tell?” Joe asked.

“Your surprise. I bet you were expecting Trixie to lip sync.” Connie said to which Joe nodded. “Well you’re in for an evening of surprises. One of the rules for amateur night is no lip syncing. You have to use your actual voice in your act.”

“Why? I thought lip syncing was like part of the whole drag queen thing.” Joe told him.

“You see those three men over in the back corner?” Connie asked as she pointed out three men in business suites. Joe just nodded. “They’re talent scouts for record labels. The one in the center is the guy who scouted Rue Paul. They’re always looking for the next underground super star.”

“Do they only come the amateur nights?” Joe asked Connie.

“They also show up for open mike nights. Never know who will be the next break out star or what their act will be.” Lexus said having overheard their conversation then added. “Best keep it down before we attract David’s attention.”

“Sounds good. Besides I want to see the rest of this show.” Joe said and sat back to watch. Over the next two hours Joe amazed by the talent he saw on stage. He was even more surprised by Connie’s performance. While over the top, her rendition of Bonney Taylor’s Holding out for a Hero blew Joe’s socks off. Though the one act that Joe found to be the funniest was belonged to Wilma and Betty, the Bedrock Sisters.

While Joe enjoyed the show she spotted several people going up to the Four Witches and their lawyer throughout the show. They would have a short discussion then one of the four t-girls would head to the bathroom. They were always followed their table visitor. By the end of the show only Sherry Addams still had her hair up in the twist. Seeing her chances at making a buy dwindling fast Joe excuse himself from the table and followed Sherry towards the restrooms. Taking a big chance Joe approached in the unisex restroom.

“I heard through the grapevine that you and you’re friends are the one to see about party favors.” Joe said as he reached into his purse for the buy money.

“Sorry honey. We’re all sold out.” Sherry said as she let her hair down out of the French twist.

“Oh. I was hoping to get something before I headed for Oceanside.” Joe sighed.

“I remember you. You’re the new girl on the stroll. Got to say sweety you made a name for yourself. Especially after you put Irish Red in his place.” Sherry said as she worked a brush through her hair bushing out the tangles.

“I wasn’t trying to. I just hate assholes. Irish Red got lucky last night. I kept my temper.” Joe told her as he moved over to the stalls and stepped inside. Hiking his miniskirt up Joe moved his thong out of the and untucked to relieve his bladder without sitting down.

“Damn girl. Has anyone taught you how to piss like a lady?” Sherry asked sharply.

“Si. My mama taught me how to behave like a lady.” Joe said over his shoulder. “But there is no way I’m sitting down on a piss covered seat.”

“Okay I can see that.” Sherry chuckled as she checked out Joe’s ass. “You got a pimp?”

“Don’t need or want one. Besides I arrange most of my dates through the internet.” Joe answered as he tucked and pulled up his thong. After pulling down his mini skirt Joe turned around.

“Then why were you walking the stroll last night?” Sherry asked.

“Scouting the local talent. I’m looking to build a website for working girls. This way they can get off the streets.” Joe told her sticking to the story he and Ramsy worked up so when the operation was over. No one would tie the busts to her.

“Smart. Looking to become your own Madam. Risky business though. You found yourself a mouthpiece yet?” Sherry asked as she took in Joe’s outfit. “A classy gal like you could get hurt or thrown in jail. Especially if you don’t have a lawyer and protection.”

“No offence, but unless you know one that you can trust. I got no use for lawyers.” Joe said.

“I know one you can trust Chica. He’s also one of the best. He doesn’t care what you do, so long as you pay his retainer, he’ll represent you and not ask any questions. He’ll even arrange protection for you and your gals. For a small fee of course.” Sherry said with a small smile.

“You got one of his cards?” Joe asked politely.

“Here.” Sherry said was she dug out a business and handed it to her. “Give him a call in the morning between nine and ten. I’ll let him know you’ll be calling.”

“Thanks. Well I need to get going. I got a date that I supposed to meet up with in an hour.” Joe said as he headed for the door. “Will I see you later tonight at the stroll?”

“Not tonight honey. Me and my friends are headed for a party over in Ten Hills after the show. I’ll be honest. I surprised when we didn’t see you up there.” Sherry told Joe.

“I might try the open mike. I’m not a very good singer, but I’m told that I am very comedian.” Joe said and left the restroom. As he passed Ramsy and Friday’s table he gave the signal to stand down. As he sat back down at his Connie asked.

“You didn’t buy anything from Sherry did you?”

“No, but I did see her hand a small package to that t-girl in the purple latex dress.” Joe answered honestly. “Why is she pushing bad drugs?”

“More like deadly Josephina. She and the three bitches with her are pushing that Twisted Blue shit. In the last ten days there have been seventeen ODs from that crap.” Alice told Joe.

“Damn. I had no idea.” Joe said before finishing off the last of his cocktail. “Well guys. It’s been nice but I got a date in about thirty minutes. Maybe I’ll see later.”

With that Joe headed for the exit. As he exited the club Connie step out behind him. At first Joe was suspicious of the drag queen. Until Connie waved down a taxi. Thankfully Ramsy and Friday came out right behind Connie. Taking a deep breath Joe headed for the meet up point. A four story parking garage two blocks down the street. As Joe walked he slowly became high headed and dizzy. The more he walked the drunker he felt. As he passed the alley between the garage and an office building Joe stumbled. Instead falling over though he was caught by a stranger who pulled him into the alley. When Joe tried to fight back he suddenly felt a massive electric shock slam through his body. That was the last thing he remembered before blacking out.

What the hell hit me?
University of Maryland Medical Center 0915 am
Critical Care Unit.

“Oh fuck my head.” Joe moaned as he came to. The sound of a heart monitor let him know that he was in a hospital. Other than that Joe had no idea where he was. Opening his eyes he slowly looked around the exam room he was in. It wasn’t until I saw the IV and the cast on his left arm that Joe realized he had been attacked. “Oh shit. Not good.”

“Finally back with us Officer?” a nurse asked as she entered the room.

“Depends. What can you telling me?” Joe asked.

“Not a lot Officer. All we know is you were attacked and that you’re undercover. If you can wait a few minutes I can get your Lt.” The nurse told him honestly.

“Sure. Can I get something for a headache?” Joe asked her.

“For that you’ll have to wait until after the doctor has looked at you.” The nurse said and left the room. While she was gone Joe took the time to check out his injuries. First he lifted the sheet. Using his good hand Joe ran it across his abdomen then his chest. When he brushed his hand across the prosthetic breast he almost jumped out of his skin. He actually felt his hands. Not believing what his mind was telling him. Joe pinched the nipple and almost screamed in shock. “Oh fuck me sideways in a back alley. This can’t happening.”

“I’m afraid it that is Joe.” Lieutenant Wetmore said as he entered the room with a doctor. from the looks on the two men’s face something totally fucked up had happened last night.

“What the fuck do you mean by that sir?” Joe snarled softly.

“Excuse me Lieutenant but I think I should be the one to explain Officer Cartwright’s condition.” The doctor said as he took a seat in the only chair. “By the way I’m Doctor Markus Chan.”

“Pleasure to meet you doc. From the sounds of things something totally FUBAR happened at the of last night’s operation.” Joe said as he slowly sat up in bed.

“About that Joe. First you need to know that you’ve been unconscious for the last twelve days.” Wetmore said slowly as if talking to a victim of a violent crime.

“Twelve days? You got to be fucking kidding me. This is some kind of a joke right.” Joe said trying his best to keep from going into a full blown panic attack.

“I’m not joking Joe. Before the doctor goes into all the medical mumbo jumbo I think I need to back things up to the night of the operation. The operation went according to plan. Except for the pay. Ramsy and Friday were able to get solid video of all four Twisted Blue dealers. We were even able to get audio evidence on them. The intel you were able to gather through your wire we’ve been able to trace everything back to their suppliers. Not to mention solid leads on the Dead Demons and their involvement in the Twisted Blue trade.” Wetmore explained slowly.

“Good to know. So how did I end up here and why do I still look like a woman?” Joe said.

“Some time during the evening someone roofied your drink. How they did it we don’t know. According to Ramsy and Friday you never let your drink out of your sight.” Wetmore explained then asked. “Any idea of they might have done it?”

“As much as I hate to say this no sir. I doubt it was the three people I was sharing the table with. As for the waitress I never use her. I always went to the bar myself for my drink order.” Joe told him as he tried to remember the night.

“Don’t worried about it Joe. From what Ramsy and Friday said you followed procedure to the t. The closest we were able to figure out to wasn’t anyone at your table.” Wetmore told him.

“Wait minute sir there was one time my drink was out of my sight. It was when I went to the bathroom. I placed my drink on the sink counter as I took a piss. There were two other people in the restroom with me. Sherry Addams and a Drag King that went by the name of Jett Setter. He had just made a buy of Twisted Blue off Sherry.” Joe said excitedly.

“That would explained the Twisted Blue in your system.” Doctor Chan said slowly.

“I thought Twisted Blue was a new type of crystal meth. Shouldn’t I have become hyper or some shit. Not sluggish or well pass out.” Joe told the man.

Dr. Chan nodded in understanding. “Twisted Blue on its own acts much like a potent form of crystal meth, which typically causes hyperactivity and increased energy. However, when Twisted Blue is mixed with alcohol, the combination has a very different effect. The substance reacts with alcohol to produce a slow-acting sedative effect, similar to Rohypnol®. This reaction explains why, instead of becoming hyper, you became sluggish and ultimately lost consciousness.”

“Oh. What other effects does it have?” Joe asked.

“Sadly we’re still finding out. Though by the time users reach us they’re overdosing. The only way to describe that is nasty. Even if we save them, nine out of ten times they might as well be brain dead.” Doctor Chan explained for Joe. “Though in your situation something strange happened. There was an extreme reaction between the bastardized form of Twisted Blue and the bio-adaptive cosmetics and structural modification systems.” Doctor Chan told him.

“What do you mean doctor?” Joe asked.

“We’re still figuring things out. What we do know is the combination of these substances did not simply interact passively; instead, their effects were amplified, leading to a highly unpredictable outcome. The altered chemical composition of Twisted Blue, when introduced to the advanced bio-adaptive technologies utilized for temporary cosmetic and structural modifications, resulted in a heightened physiological response. This synergy between the drug and the systems caused the body to react much more severely than it would have to either, component on its own, which contributed to the complications following your exposure. Complications that were compounded when your assailant struck you with a modified taser during the attack.” Chan explained.

“When did that happen?” Joe asked with confusion.

“I was coming to that, Joe. Shortly after you left the club the Twisted Blue hit you hard but not har enough to put you out. Anyway you had just reached the alleyway between the Norton building and the parking garage when you stumbled. That’s when your assailant attacked. Before Ramsy and Friday could react the asshole hit you with the taser when you fought back. You might have been roofied, but you put up a hell of a fight.” Wetmore told him with pride. “You bought Ramsy and Friday enough time to bust the fuck wad before he could get away.”

“What held up Kelly and Joe’s response time? they were right behind me.” Joe asked politely.

“Do you remember that bail bondsman you were sitting with in the club?” Wetmore asked Joe. It took Joe a few minutes, but he finally nodded. “Well he confronted they as the came out of the club. To protect your cover they gave him a cock and bull story about dating and wanting to keep it on the down low. Because of the delay they were out of position when the asshole attacked.”

“What aren’t you telling me sir?” Joe asked sharply.

“Ramsy and Friday got to you just as the asshole was loading you into a ten foot box truck. Joe I don’t know how to say this, so I’ll just come straight out. Ramsy and Friday got you just in time. If they had been two or three minutes later. You would have been raped, and mostly likely tortured to death. The asshole had outfitted the truck as a mobile rap and torture room. The FBI are all over the truck. From what they’ve told us. They’ve found DNA from all twelve of his known victims plus another four unknown victims.” The more Wetmore explained about the attack the more Joe realized just how close he came to dying.

“Wait a minute Lieutenant. Are you saying that there are more victims out there that we don’t know about?” Joe asked in shock.

“We know of at least four unknow victims just from the Baltimore area. Don’t worry he’s not going anywhere. Hell the fucker started to sing the moment we put the cuffs on him. We also found his trophies.” Wetmore told him.

“What did he take LT?” Joe asked.

“A lock of hair and driver’s license from all of his victims, but he took something more from his murder victims.” Wetmore said before he took a deep breath. “Remember how you suggested the guy might be a hunter. Well he kept the gallbladder from his murder victims.”

“What the fuck? Why in the hell was he taking the gallbladder?” Joe exclaimed no longer worried about the thought he might have been raped.

“The FBI is still trying to figure that out, Joe.” Wetmore told him honestly.

“So they have their unsub?” Joe asked.

“They do and they owe it all to you Joe. As for the Twisted Blue operation. The Organized Crime Unit for the FBI has taken over the investigation. Before you blow your top you uncovered a massive organization. Between what you were able to gather during the operation and the busts of the Four Witches the following night. We set to take down not only the Dead Demons MC but the Georgiyevich family as well. By the way we wouldn’t have that intel if wasn’t for you tying Robert Thorton to the Twisted Blue trade.” Wetmore said with a smile of pride before he frowned. “Sadly we had to turned everything over to the FBI’s Organized Crime Unit after we busted the Four Witches on Friday night. We got them and Thorton with enough Twisted Bleu to power an aircraft carrier for a year.”

“Damn. I wish I could have been there for the take down.” Joe sighed then looked down at his body. “If the Four Witches and the serial killer are off the streets. Why do I still look like this?”

“About that Joe I think Doctor Chan should give you the bad news.” Wetmore said with a frown.

“This is what we know so far Joe. Do you remember how I said there were complications following your exposure to the Twisted Blue. Complications that were compounded when your assailant struck you with a modified taser during the attack?” Doctor Chan asked, and Joe nodded. “Well the bio-adaptive technologies in your system were already customizing the temporary cosmetic and structural modifications for a much longer duration than originally planned. These technologies use a skull cap containing a neural net. As you know it is an advanced interface designed to connect directly with the wearer’s brain, allowing for seamless and real-time cosmetic changes. The problem is the neural net in the skull cap, was never meant to handle a sudden surge of electricity. When your attacker hit you with the taser, it overloaded the system, supercharging the neural net before ultimately causing it to short out a two days ago. That unexpected jolt is what complicated your situation and left you in your current condition.”

“So I’m stuck like this?” Joe asked in shock.

“I’m afraid so. While we are able to remove the wig, panty girdle, breast and hip pads. We were unable to remove the neural net of the skull cap.” Doctor Chan told him.

“What aren’t you telling me Doctor?” Joe asked with a cop’s suspicion.

“Your body has remained in a hyperactive state for the past several days. To clarify, Joe, your current physical appearance is natural. The body has redistributed fat and muscle tissue to match the configuration previously achieved through temporary cosmetic and structural changes. The issue is due to a malfunction in the neural net. According to True Flections, all aspects were expected to return to normal within twenty-four hours as your body chemistry stabilized. However, available information indicates that prior to the neural network's malfunction, it permanently altered your body chemistry to this current state,” Doctor Chan stated.

“Thank you doctor.” Joe said as Chan left the room. Joe turned to Wetmore. “LT can I get some time alone. I need to think over my options.”

“Of course Joe. I just want you to know that the Department will have your back no matter what. The Commissioner has already declared your situation a line of duty injury. You take as much time as you need to make your decision. Personally I won’t blame you if you take the medical retirement payout.” Witmore told him kindly.

“Thanks sir, but I already know that I won’t be taking the buyout. I’m no quitter.” Joe told him before closing his eyes and leaning back in his bed. If Joe had kept his eyes open he would have seen a small smile cross Witmore’s lips as he left the room. He also might have noticed the officer standing just outside his room.

“No body other than approved hospital staff enters that room without an escort. Am I understood officer?” Wetmore ordered the man.

“Yes sir. Before you go sir. Can you tell me if Cartwright is going to be okay? I’m his TO.” The officer told Witmore with real worry in his voice.

“Depends Officer Nolan. He’s facing a lot of big life choices over the next few days.” Witmore told him honestly. “Why do you check in on him during diner.”

“Yes sir. Oh before I forget. Earlier this morning there were two FBI sniffing around. I had Carter and Jackson show them the door.” Nolan told Witmore with a nasty grin.

“Officer Nolan let your Patrol Sergeant know that no one sees Cartwright without first talking to me. Especially those fucks in the FBI.” Witmore snarled as he turned to walk away.

“Understood sir.” Nolan said to Witmore’s disappearing back. As Nolan stood his watch he would check on the sleeping form of his rookie from time to time. He still couldn’t believe the beautiful Latina was the Irish/German rookie he’d be training for the last year. Then again if it hadn’t been for Detective Ramsy showing him the video of Joe’s transformation he wouldn’t have taken the courtesy watch assignment. “Don’t worry Joe. If nothing else Patrol will have your back.”

-----tbc-----

Walking the Blue Line.
Every rookie police officer knows the dangers of the job by the second week under their training officer. By the end of their training every rookie understands that there are something they can’t control, and not all crimes will be solved. Though all rookies share the same dream. Their first assignment following training. For 21 year old Officer Joe Cartwright of the Baltimore PD that dream is to be a member of the Mounted Patrol. What he got would lead to a life changing path.

Chapter 4
Hospital visits.
University of Maryland Medical Center 10:30 am, 5 days later.

“Morning Joe.” Ramsy said as she and Friday entered Joe’s hospital room.

“Hay Kelly. Where the hell have you guys been? Staking out the nearest Dunkin Donuts?” Joe asked in a joking manner.

“I wish. The LT has had our asses sitting on a possible cocaine stash house waiting for a reason to get a search warrant. Finally got what we needed last night just before midnight. SWAT hit the house just after sunrise. Nailed them with more than two hundred kilos of uncut cocaine, over five hundred pounds of pot, and over five million in cash. Not to mention enough firearms to outfit an Infantry Platoon. I’m talking about AK forty-sevens, M-sixteens, a few Tech-nines, several shotguns and a case of grenades.” Friday told him with a smile. “This is one time the boys and gals in SWAT earned their paychecks.”

“Fuck. I would say so.” Joe grunted as he slowly walked across his room.

“You’re moving better today.” Kelly told him. “You got your sway back.”

“Thanks. The rehab specialist told me I should be moving the way I was during my undercover assignment in no time. Which with this body might be for the best.” Joe told them with a sigh.

“I take it the docs gave you more bad news.” Kelly said as she sat down at the room’s table.

“You could say that. They talked with the people at True Reflections. Seems their technology needs a working biofeedback to deactivate the bio-adaptive cosmetics and structural modification systems. Which I don’t currently have.” Joe told them.

“Then just pull off the wig and replace the old cap with a new one. Problem solved.” Kelly said.

“That’s just it Kelly. They can’t remove the skull cap without scalping me first. Which is not an option right now.” Joe told her honestly.

“Why not?” Friday asked with real concern.

“The neural net has fused to my nerves. It is literally part of my nervous system now. Just like the rest of the bio-adaptive cosmetics and structural modification systems.” Joe then went on to explain his situation for the two Vice Detectives. When Joe finished explaining both knew and understood what Lt Wetmore told them a lot better. They also knew that Joe had a choice to make.

“Maybe I can give you some advice Joe. Kelly told me about your inheritance. How you own the building you live in. Take the medical payout and retire. You’ve sacrificed enough already. Thanks to your work we took down one of the largest drug rings to hit Baltimore in decades. You also helped to put an interstate serial killers behind bars.” Friday told him bluntly.

“Joe what did you want to be as a kid?” Joe asked out of the blue.

“I wanted to be a lawyer, but life took me down a deferent path. Why?” Friday answered.

“What about you Kelly? What did you want to be?” Joe asked her.

“Well that’s kind of hard to answer. I originally wanted to be a ballet dancer, but I broke my leg in my teens and never recovered enough to dance professionally. After that I wanted to be an EMT. Then one night I watched my best friend OD on some bad ecstasy. After that I wanted to take down every drug dealer I could. So I become a cop. Why are you asking Joe?” Kelly said.

“The only thing I ever wanted to be was a cop. Just like my father, my uncle, my grandfather, and my great grandfather. When I enlisted I had my choice of MOS. I picked MP. I did my time, came home and applied to the academy. I bet you didn’t know that I graduated second in my class. My scores were so damned good I could have applied to any city’s police force. I spent the last twelve months busting my ass. Dealing with the biggest hard ass TO on the force. I worked extra shifts with him just to prove I had what it took to be a good cop. Then your fucking undercover assignment came down the pipe. On my first night I got you more intel than any of you gather in six months. So no I can’t just retire Joe. I can’t just forget about my dream.” Joe told them as he stood up and started to pace the room. As Joe walked around both Kelly and Friday noticed his movements becoming more fluid, more graceful.

“Say Joe what are you thinking about right now?” Kelly asked with a smile.

“How much I want to be a cop. Why?” Joe asked as he stopped pacing. As he stood there Joe was practically posing. He looked like a Paris runway model posing at the end of the catwalk.

“Just that in the last few minutes you paced back and forth like you were walking a runway. Hell right now you’re posing the way a runway model would.” Kelly said with grin.

“Shit Cartwright. I know you’re a man, but in the last few minutes I’ve seen nothing but a high class lady walking around this room. One that I would be trying my damnedest to take to bed if I saw her on the street.” Friday admitted.

“It’s more than just that Friday. She reminds me of that Argentinian supermodel Zaira Nara. I doubt you two know who I’m talking about, but she was super-hot and as graceful as a ballerina. Not surprising really. Part of her training as a teen was as a ballerina.” Kelly told them.

“Sue and Anna said something about using a former supermodel as the model for my movements. They just never told me who. Though what does that have to do with the way I move?” Joe said.

“If my hunch is right you getting out of here in simple. Do you remember how you are moving during your undercover assignment?” Kelly asked him.

“Sure. I just had to stop resisting and let the movements come naturally.” Joe said then facepalmed hard enough to give himself a headache. “Oh for the love of little green men.”

“I wouldn’t say that kid. You just needed to remember is all. Just let your body do what it wants to do naturally. Sure your walk is sexy as fuck, but who cares. You look like a beautiful and exotic woman embrace it.” Friday told him.

“Thanks guys. So other than coming by to see how my PT is going what are you here for?” Joe asked them with a friendly smile.

“Well we thought you might want to know the Four Witches turned States Evidence against that shit bird Thornton. He then turned around and flipped on Georgiyevich, and the Dead Demons. The good news is you won’t have to testify at their hearings. Those kids you spotted working the stroll were also picked up during a sweep. The DA’s office showed an uncommon amount of common sense for once and got the girls enrolled in some special school over in Western Maryland.” Kelly told Joe with a smile.

“That would be the Garret School for Exceptional Girls, in Friendsville, Maryland. It’s a boarding school that takes in young girls with troubled pasts.” Joe told them with small grin.

“Um Joe how do you know about this school?” Kelly asked him.

“Remember when I told you I was born Frostburg? Well when I came home after serving in the Army. I heard all about the school from one of my cousins. She’s one of their teachers. Those girls will be well looked after.” Joe said with sad smile. “If it wasn’t for my age. I would enroll there myself. Just so I could take advantage of their medical staff.”

“What kind of school is this place?” Friday asked of Joe.

“Let’s just say they handle all types of girls.” Joe told them and changed the topic. “Did you guys find the Twisted Blue factory?”

“Found it two days ago. It was being run by the Dead Demons. They were set up to turn out a hundred pounds of Twisted Blue three times a week. The Feds were able to tie the distribution network to the Georgiyevich family. So they’ll be going down as well.” Kelly told him.

“Holy shit. That must have been a massive lab.” Joe said in surprise.

“It was more like a pharmaceutical factory. We’re not talking about your high school lab here. The place looked like it belonged to Bayer or some other big pharma company.” Friday told him.

“From the sound of things you guys have been putting a real dent in the drug trade lately.” Joe said with a smile for the two detectives.

“We might be but none of this would be happening if not for your undercover work. Your one night of working the Oceanside stroll has led to thirty-eight busts. I won’t even go into what the intel from the club uncovered. To be blunt Joe, you’re a trail blazer. Because of what you were able to do. Our makeup magicians have been working overtime. They’ve figured out how to use the tech from True Reflections for every type of uc operation possible and not just as women. Hell I even went undercover as man.” Kelly said smiling.

“Speaking of uc work we got some bad news for you. Somehow during the take down of the Four Witches and Thorton your cover id was blown. Josephina Espina is a known undercover cop. I hate to say this kid, but we can’t use you for undercover work anymore.” Friday told him.

“How the hell did this happen guys? This is the second time a UC’s cover has been blown in two months.” Joe demanded of the two detectives.

“We’re working on it, Joe.” All three officer turned to face the door as Lt Wetmore entered the room. “Trust me. As much as all of us hate them. Internal Affairs is investigating.”

“Do we really need to go that far sir? I mean it’s got to be something simple.” Kelly told him.

“I wish it was Ramsy. This last leak proves we’ve got a mole in the department. I’m not going to tell the rest of the division this but Cartwright and you two were directly affected by the leak. That’s why I’ve had you two pulling surveillance duty only. All three of your faces will be known to the drug dealers after today. Thorton got a hold of a redacted form of your records during discovery and released your pictures to the press. He may be a piece of shit but he’s still a defense lawyer.” Wetmore told the three officers. “I wasn’t expecting to see you here detectives. What brings you by other than taken a break on the clock?”

"Don’t worry, sir, we clocked out before checking on our UC. We thought Cartwright could use some company and wanted to see how his physical therapy is going. I also needed to ask him, as his union rep, if he’s considering the medical buyout or returning to patrol," Ramsy explained.

“Well I can shed some light on that front for both of you.” Wetmore said as he placed a folder in front of Joe. “I won’t pussyfoot around Joe. The Commissioner has approved your full medical retirement. He’s also approved your transfer to any patrol unit you want. You should know that your chances at making detective are almost zero.”

“What the fuck sir? Joe busted his ass for us and Downtown is going to fuck him over with patrol for the rest of his career. That’s bullshit.” Kelly snarled.

“It’s worse than that Ramsy. Joe got ‘injured’ in the line of duty. They can legally force him out if he doesn’t take one of the two options.” Friday reminded her.

“Oh fuck no! If the Commissioner wants to play that fucking game. The Union will be beating down his fucking door with enough lawsuits to bankrupt the city.” Ramsy snarled.

“Will you cool your jets Kelly.” Joe snapped then looked up at Wetmore. “I think the LT has more to say. I think there’s more going on here.”

“You’re right Joe. If you accept the patrol duty you won’t be the only one headed back to patrol. Ramsy and Friday will be Joining you.” Wetmore told them bluntly. At Friday and Ramsy’s looks of shock Wetmore explained. “Here’s the deal you two. Several districts are in need of training officers. Thanks to the leak you’re usefulness as Narcotics officers is over.”

“We can still work in surveillance boss.” Ramsy pointed out.

“Normally I would agree with you Ramsy. There is only one problem. Until the trials against Thorton and the Dead Demons are over you’re both sidelined. Mostly because of all the discovery motions filed by Thorton and his law firm. I won’t even go into the horse shit the Feds are pulling. To be blunt, the Chief of D’s is being forced to either put you on desk duty or send you over to patrol. Guess which option he picked?” Wetmore told them.

“Do we at least get to pick which patrol unit we’re assigned?” Friday asked him.

“That’s the only good news. You get your choice of Patrol Assignments, and you will be training officers. As for you Cartwright you’ll be reporting to the central district stables as soon as you’re cleared for duty.” Wetmore told them.

“God damn. Talk about giving us the dick while promoting us at the same time.” Ramsy grunted.

“It could be worse Ramsy. We could be stuck with desk duty. At least we get our choice.” Friday reminded her as he thought about which district he wanted. “Sir let the Chief know I’ll take the Northeast district. That way I’ll be closer to home.”

“I’m good with the Southeast district LT. I might as well give Romley a hand. Last time I checked she was the only TO in the Motorcycle patrol.” Ramsy said with a small smile.

“Thank you for understanding detectives. Once we find the leak we’ll let you plug it.” Wetmore told the two officers. “Cartwright I know that you might want to retire after you find out about the conditions the Commissioner has placed on you.”

“That’s where you’re wrong sir. I don’t care what I look like now. I still want to be a cop.” Joe told him bluntly.

“That’s very admirable Joe. You need to know something your doctors have informed the department that your situation can’t be reversed. If you want to continue as a patrol officer it will have to be as a female. You should also know that whoever this leak is let it get out that you’re transexual. Thorton and his firm are trying to paint you as a DEI hire or some horse shit. If they can discredit you our case may fall apart.” Wetmore told him honestly.

“Not that it matters to me sir. The shrinks have been pushing me to accept the fact that I’m stuck this way. If the Department wants to cover their asses in this whole fucking situation they can pay me to keep my mouth shut and live as a woman.” Joe told him bluntly.

“Don’t worry Joe. The mayor and city council have offered a settlement of five million. So long as you follow their script. If anyone outside of the department asks. You’re a transgendered woman working for the police as a patrol officer. You transferred from the Buenos Aires PD as part of an International Exchange Program.” When Joe heard Wetmore say International Exchange he stopped the Lieutenant.

“That won’t work sir. At least not for me. I won’t give up my citizenship as part of a cover up.” Joe told him bluntly.

“Then what do you suggest Joe?” Ramsy asked him.

“We use my undercover identification as the foundation for my new identity. The records indicate that I was originally from Buenos Aires, with the name listed as Josephina Cartwright rather than Josephina Espina, the name previously assigned by the department. The department was aware of my transition and assigned me to the Twisted Blue undercover operation accordingly. Any review of the records will show that the department has maintained their stance on equality hiring of minors.” Joe explained for Wetmore with a sly smile.

“What about your property Josephina?” Ramsy asked him.

“If anyone asks I tell them the truth. I inherited it from my grandfather.” Joe explained.

“What about your family Josephina?” Friday asked.

“Let me handle that. They already know that I’m in the hospital. Sorry sir but I had to let them know. My Aunt Carla called my cell yesterday. She’ll be here later today to visit. I’m sure that after I explain the situation. They’ll get behind my play.” Joe said thoughtfully.

“I think I can sell this to the mayor and the council. I know that I can sell it downtown with the Commissioner and Chiefs. Though I’ll need to call in a few favors with the FBI.” Wetmore said.

“Why call in any favors sir. They fucking owe me for what happened with their god damned serial killer. Those mother fuckers knew that bastard had crossed state lines and didn’t tell us. Instead they knowingly let us stumble around in the fucking dark. We ended up with four bodies, and a total of twelve assault victims that we know of. All of which were raped. The real bitch I would have been his next victim. The fucking FBI owes me and the department big time. Don’t say they don’t LT. I’ve been watching the news every night since I woke up. There hasn’t been one fucking word said about a serial rapist or killer on any of the channels. Not even those slugs over at Clenton New Network have said anything. I figure FBI is going out of their way to keep shit out of the news. If they want to keep it out of the news. Then they can provide me with everything I need to continue living my life as a cop.” Josephina said with a nasty grin.

“Damn it Joe. Chill out.” Kelly whispered.

“It’s Josephina or Josie with an IE for short.” Josephina said with a friendly smile.

“Gotcha Josie.” Friday said with a chuckle then asked. “What property is Ramsy talking about?”

“His grandparents left him a covered warehouse downtown. You should see his, I mean her, condo. We’re talking about up scale big time.” Kelly said with a grin.

“That explains Josie’s address,” Wetmore said with a laugh. “I hate to say this about any officer under me, but I briefly suspected he was corrupt, and so had IA run a background check.”

“Just out of curiosity Josie. Are there any vacancies in that building of yours?” Friday asked.

“Sorry detective but not at this time. Maybe in a few months.” Josie told him.

“Excuse me Cartwright, but just how much do you earn off your building?” Wetmore asked.

“To be honest sir, I don’t know. Before you ask why. Let me explain. While I own the building outright, I still have to pay property taxes. Then there is the upkeep of the public areas. Plus a whole lot of other things. That’s why I have a property management company that specializes in handling everything from the Condo Association fees to rents. After they pay for general building upkeep, any condo repairs, taxes, utilities, and insurance. I clear around nine grand a month.” Joe told the LT honestly then chuckled. “Though I only see three grand of that as the rest is put in an IRA for later in life.”

“I got to say Josie. For a young officer you got your head on straight.” Wetmore grunted.

“Sir I had to have my head on straight. I was eighteen when I learned a very important life lesson. Everyone has an expiration date stamped on their ass.” Josie chuckled sadly.

“That’s right. I forgot you’re a combat vet.” Wetmore said as he rubbed his shoulder. “I wasn’t much older than you when I learned that same lesson in Iraq.”

“Damn LT we didn’t know you were a vet.” Friday said.

“Joined right out of high school. I did four years as a Cav Scout with the Seventh Cav. Came home and applied to the academy. That was just over twenty-one years and two ex-wives ago.” Lt Wetmore joked with his officers.

“Hopefully it won’t take me that long to figure things out.” Josie snarked then asked. “By the way LT shouldn’t you be coming up on Captain?”

“Captain’s bars aren’t in my future Josie. Back shortly after I got promoted to LT I did something really fucking stupid. I let a suspect play the system and he walked on a murder charge. Only he didn’t walk far as the local gang beat his ass to death. IA cleared me of any wrongdoing, but I still ended up with a letter of reprimand in my jacket.” Wetmore told them.

“No wonder you’re always riding our asses about documenting our evidence and getting warrants. You don’t want one of us screwing up and pulling something similar.” Friday said sagely.

“Pretty much Friday. Look you and Ramsy are two of the best officers I have. Ramsy’s got the drive, and you got the experience. Between the two of you, you’ve got this crazy synergy going on that just breaks cases wide open. If you were in Homicide or Major Crimes you would be rock stars.” Wetmore told them before he turned to Josie. “Cartwright all I can say is keep doing what you’ve been doing. You’ll make Sergeant in no time. You’ve got a good head on your shoulders.”

“Yes sir. I do got one question. It concerns the mole.” Josie told him.

“I’ll go ahead and tell you what I can about the investigation Officer Cartwright. Which isn’t much as IA is handling that whole investigation. What they do know is that the leak isn’t anyone in Vice. At least not directly. IA cleared all the detectives and UCs currently working in Vice. That still leaves a shit load of people that had access.” Wetmore told him with a frown.

“Sir I know it’s not my place but have the rat squad concentrate their investigation on the evidence lock up personnel.” Josie said with a frown.

“Why there Josie?” Wetmore asked as he pulled out a note pad.

“Simple sir. They’re the only ones with ties to ours, Cambell’s, and Samuel’s cases sir. Them and the guys over in surveillance.” Josie explained for the Lt.

“Shit. I never saw it. There’s also the guys over in cyber.” Wetmore snarled.

“Why would cyber have access to Vice cases sir?” Kelly asked him.

“It’s part of the Commissioner’s new Combined Policing Initiative. All cases that have possible ties to Organized Crime is now run through cyber division on the off chance there might be an internet connection. Which makes them a problem for the Feds.” Wetmore explained slowly.

“Talk about fucking over the locals. Does the Commissioner realize what he’s doing or is he just fucking stupid?” Friday snarled clearly let his anger over the situation fill his voice.

“What do you expect from a desk jockey who spent his entire career in cybercrimes? Everything has to be connected by the internet.” Kelly snapped.

“Look, I know that the three of you are pissed. I get that and understand your reasons.” Wetmore was saying when there was a knock on the room door. “We’ll pick this up back in the bullpen.”

“Excuse detectives but it’s time for Officer Cartwright’s physical therapy.” A nurse said as she pushed a wheelchair into the room.

“No problem nurse. We were just leaving.” Kelly said as she stood up. “Is there anything we can get for you Josie?”

“A change of clothes and a washer kit. I got a pair of sweats in my locker. These gowns are kind of drafty.” Josie snarked as he flapped his hospital gown.

“Anything else?” Friday asked.

“I could really go for a number three from El gato genial on North Front Street.” Josie said grinning.

“One double burrito meal coming up. I’ll have Kipling swing by and pick it up for you before he comes in for the evening shift.” Wetmore told him with a grin of his own before asking. “By the way Josie. How did you find the Cool Cat?”

“Me and Nolan responded to a dine and dash at that location. After taking the report we took our a meal break. I got to say they have some of the best Tex-Mex in the city.” Josie smiled.

“If you like the Cat then you got to try the Spanish Mission on the corner of East Clement St and Cooksie Street. They have the best old world Spanish cuisine in Baltimore.” Kelly countered.

“No way. If you want real Spanish food there is only one place to go. That’s the Spanish Princess on Keystone Ave in Television hill.” Friday said offering his own opinion.

“I hate to be the buzz kill detectives, but we really need to get going. Josephina’s PT therapist wants to try something new today.” The nurse told them as she patted the wheelchair.

“Understood nurse. Ramsy, Friday, let’s go. You still need to report into tech support, and I got reports to go over from last night’s raid. Cartwright the sooner you get PT to sign off the sooner you get the fuck back to duty.” Wetmore told the others.

“Yes sir. See you tomorrow Josie.” Friday said before leaving.

“Later Josie. I’ll swing by this evening after shift with your sweats and shower.” Ramsy said before giving her a kiss on the cheek and leaving.

“Later guys.” Josie called out to them before looking up at Wetmore. “Remember what is said about those mushroom farmers sir. The leak has to be there.”

“Don’t worry Josie. I won’t forget.” Wetmore said as he followed his detectives out.

“So what does Torquemada want to try today?” Josie asked as he sat down in the wheelchair.

“I don’t know Josephina. I was only told to bring you down an hour early today.” The nurse told him as she pushed Josie through the hallway to the elevator. As they waited the nurse gave Josie some good news. “Before we head down to PT, I was told to swing by the gift shop. Tom said you can pick up some workout clothes.”

“Cool. Do they have sweats?” Josie asked as the elevator doors opened.

“This is a University Hospital. I’m sure we can find you something. Though we might want to look in the women’s section.” The nurse told Josie as she pulled Josie into the elevator.

“They won’t happened to carry bras and panties as well?” Josie asked her.

“They only carry cotton, but the store does have panties and bras.” The nurse told him.

“Anything will be better than going commando.” Josie snarked.

“I feel you girlfriend.” The nurse said just as the elevator stopped on the ground floor. A few minutes later Josie was being pushed into the gift shop. At first Josie was surprised by the selection. Then he remembered that the hospital was a University Hospital. That meant they had both an emergency room and trauma center. That meant there was always people in need of clothes following discharge or hospital approved sleepwear. After finding a 4 pack of women’s Hanes, 2 bras, a cotton nightgown, a 6 pack of yoga socks, 2 pink with white trim yoga outfits Josie had the nurse push her over to the cashier. Only then did Josie realize he had no way to pay.

“Just show the cashier your hospital ID band. Everything will be charged to your room.” The nurse told Josie with a smile. Shrugging his shoulders Josie held out his wrist when the total was rung up. Josie was actually surprised by the total because it was only 78 dollars. With his hospital clothes in hand the nurse pushed Josie down to the PT lab. As they entered the PT lab Josie groaned as he spotted Tommas Thorn or as Josie called him Torquemada, the Grand Inquisitor.

“Thanks Marry, I’ll take him from here. I’ll see you in about an hour from now.” Tom told the nurse as moved behind Josie.

“Sure Tom. Have fun.” Marry said and left.

“Okay Torquemada what fresh hell do you have for me today?” Josie asked Tom as he pushed him over behind a curtained off area.

“First we need to get you dressed for your therapy. I talked with your undercover seamstress over at the department. So these should fit you.” Tom said as he placed a shopping bag in Josie’s lap. Wondering what was inside Josie opened the bag. Inside he found six pairs of white dance tights, six black leotards, a pair of ballet slippers, and a pair of high heels. He also found six gaffs. “I’ll leave you to get dressed. Wear the slippers and bring the heels.”

“Okay this is off the wall.” Josie sighed.

“Look Joe, I’ve been thinking. You’re whole problem is you’re fighting the way your body moves naturally. I talked with the people at True Reflections. From what I understand the makeup team used bio-feedback and a behavioral modification program to train your muscles so you would move like Argentinian supermodel Zaira Nara.” Tom told him as he stepped around the curtain to give Josie some privacy.

“About that. Before I came down here my partner made a comment about that. It seems that when I’m not thinking about it I naturally move like her.” Josie told Tom as he stood and removed the hospital gown. Taking out one of the gaffs Josie quickly tucked and pulled the gaff in place.

“According to True Reflections you should have reverted to your normal movement patterns when the neural network shorted out. But I think it fixed your natural movement patterns in super model mode. What we’re going do today is test that theory.” Tom said.

“And how is me dressing in tights and a leotard going to do that?” Josie asked as he pulled a pair of tights up around his waist. Next came the leotard. “I mean it’s not like I don’t trust you.”

“But you don’t trust me. Don’t worry I get where you’re coming from Joe. I know what I’m going to suggest is going to sound crazy, but I found a bunch of old training videos of this Zaira Nara. What I want to do is show you these videos and then have you copy her. The first two videos are of her in a ballet studio stretching out.” Tom told him just before Josie pulled the curtain back. “Damn. Please excuse me Joe but fuck you’re hot. If I didn’t know.”

“You’d be all over me. Yah I get it. So drop it already Torquemada. By the way the name is Josie with an I.” Josie snarled.

“Sorry about that Officer Cartwright. That was totally unprofessional of me and a total dick move.” Tom said by way of apology.

“Forget about it Tom. I’m still getting used to the way I look. I know that I was undercover this way, but it was supposed to be temporary.” Josie said as she slipped on the ballet slippers. “Oh I almost forgot. The name’s Josie with an I.”

“Okay Josie we’ll start off slow.” Tom said as he set up a laptop. For the next ten minutes Josie watched Zaira slowly go through the classical ballet stretches. “Okay Josie I’m going to turn on some classical music. Just listen to the music and try to perform the stretches.”

“Okay. I still think you’re crazy, but I’ll give anything a try once.” Josie said and moved over to an exercise map laid out on the floor. When he heard the music Josie just let his body move in time with the beat. To Josie’s utter amazement his body moved in harmony with the music. After fifteen minutes Josie moved over to a set of parallel bars. Once again Josie just let his body go and listened to the music. Soon he was working his way through all of the classical ballet bar exercises. When he finished at the bar Josie was ready for center work. Only Tom stopped the music. “Holy shit. They did more than just program your muscles, so you move like Zaira.”

“What do you mean Tom?” Josie asked not liking where this might be going.

“I don’t know how they did it, but TR tech actually implanted years of ballet and model training in your subconscious. I know it was supposed to be temporary, but all that knowledge is now permanently a part of your subconscious. When you try to walk like you used to your muscles and subconscious is fighting the way you want to move. Do you understand?” Tom asked Josie.

“It’s like when Alex and Sue were first programing my movements. Are you saying I just need to move and forget about how I move?” Josie asked him bluntly.

“Pretty much. If you don’t believe me just walk to the far end of the room and back. Don’t think about it just do it.” Tom ordered Josie. With a shrug of his shoulders Josie did as Tom asked. It wasn’t until he was halfway back that Josie noticed himself in the wall mirrors. He was moving with the same fluid grace he had during his time undercover.

When Josie reached the end of the room, he picked up the high heels and changed his shoes. Without any prompting, Josie walked to the far end and back, observing his movements in the mirrors out of the corner of his eye. This self-awareness marked a shift in his approach to physical therapy. For the next hour, Josie did more than simply walk around the room; he practiced sitting, standing, and posing. Each movement became progressively more natural and unconsciously elegant. The way he crossed his legs when sitting, the smooth motion of his hands over his hips when standing, and the gentle sway in his walk all reflected an effortless grace. These actions felt increasingly automatic, as if they were ingrained in his muscle memory.

Through this process, Josie realized that by letting go of his anxieties and simply allowing his body to move, all the difficulties he previously experienced with movement disappeared. The transformation was a result of embracing his new identity and trusting in the instincts that had been programmed into her subconscious.

During his physical therapy session, Josie experienced two significant breakthroughs. The first was a profound shift in his self-perception. As he practiced in the leotard and tights, garments originally intended to assist with his stretching he found that they highlighted his feminine figure. No matter how hard she tried, Josie could no longer see a man reflected back at him in the mirrors. Instead, she saw a beautiful and exotic woman with an impressive physique.

The transformation was not just physical; it was mental as well. By the third time Josie walked up and back across the room, she began to think of herself in the feminine. Where once she used masculine pronouns and thoughts, she now naturally referred to herself as "she" and "her." This internal acceptance marked a major step forward in her journey of self-discovery and adaptation.

Josie also realized deep down that before the neural network finally shorted out it imprinted on her subconscious a total new life. Not just any life but a female life. While she might not have the memories of Zaira Nara she might as well be her doppelganger. At least as far as her movements, mannerisms, speech patterns, and tastes went. She want to be as much like Zaira Nara as possible.

“Okay Josie. Your time is up. You can go ahead and get changed.” Tom said at just before noon.

“Thanks Tom but I’ll just wear this and the ballet slippers back to my room.” Josie told him as she sat down and changed her shoes. Before she sat down in the wheelchair Josie placed everything in the same bag. “Thanks for all your help Tom. You may not know it, but you did more than help me with getting back on my feet.”

“Don’t take this the wrong way Josie, but I figured as much. The more you moved around the more you moved like the lady you appear to be.” Tom told her then tapped the side of his head. “I may only be a physical therapist, but I’ve helped more people with what’s up here than the shrinks.”

“How’s that?” Josie asked.

“Because a lot of people who have physical disabilities also have a mental block. Sometimes I have to get them out of their heads before we can really start working on the physical problem.” Tom told her honestly. “In your case. You kept looking for the man in a gown but were seeing a half-naked woman instead. That sight was throwing everything off. Not only with how you moved but with the way you saw yourself.”

“Is that why you had me wear the leotard and tights today? To force me to see the woman?” Josie asked him with real surprise.

“Pretty much. I figured if you were confronted with the harsh truth. You would figure shit out on your own and the rest would fall into place.” Tom said as an orderly entered the lab. “And here’s your ride. I know you think you’re ready to walk back to your room on your own, but you’re still recovering from a comma. That means a wheelchair for all transport between the labs and your room until your release date.”

“Fine. I’ll deal for now.” Josie sighed and waited for the orderly to push her back to her room. “See you tomorrow Tom.”

“Maybe, maybe not, Josie. I got other patients. Though if I’m not here my replacement will have a workout waiting for you. Oh and be sure to wear the leotard and tights. Also bring the slippers and heels. Until you’re discharged I want you going through those ballet exercises every day. It may not seem like it, but they help get you in the right mind set for what we’re doing here.” Tom said as he walked her to the door.

“And exactly what are we doing?” Josie asked.

“Reminding your mind and body in how to move.” Tom said before turning back to the lab.

When Josie got back to her room the first thing she did was to take the first shower she’d been allowed in days. After drying off Josie dressed in a fresh gaff, panties, socks, and one of her yoga outfits. She had just gotten the leggings and matching sports bra on when her lunch arrived. It wasn’t the burritos she wanted but it still killed her hunger. After eating Josie asked for a brush or a comb to take care of her hair. When she first woke up it was only a few inches long, now her hair reached clear down to her collar. As she ran the brush through her Josie could have sworn she felt it going longer with each stroke. Only she knew that had to be impossible.

“Knock, knock.” His Aunt Carla said before she saw Josie sitting off to the side in a chair watching TV. “Oh excuse me Miss. I was looking for my nephew Joe Cartwright’s room.”

“Come on in Aunt Carla. You’re in the right place.” Josie said as she turned off the TV.

“Where’s Joe, Miss? Down have some test run?” Carla asked as she entered the room.

“It’s me, Aunt Carla. I know I don’t look like it, but I really am your nephew Joe.” Josie said as she got up and closed the door.

“Verry funny young lady. Now where’s Joe?” Carla demanded.

“Aunt Carla it really is me. I can prove it.” Josie said as she opened up her phone and showed her the tame lap video Alex had made for her of the transformation. When the video finish Carla gave Josie a funny look. “What?”

“When you were nine. Where did you go for summer vacation the summer before your senior year in high school?” Carla asked out of the blue.

“You took me Disney World.” Josie answered automatically.

“What happened on Space Mountain?” Carla asked him.

“We got stuck halfway through the ride near the top.” Josie answered with a smile.

“What did you and Beth do together on the last day?” Carla asked with a grin.

“We did the Princess for a Day. Beth dressed up as Anna, and I was Elsia.” Josie confessed.

“God lord. You really are Joe.” Carla gasped then grabbed Josie in a hug only to pull beck in surprise. “Those don’t feel like they’re fake.”

“Because they’re not Aunt Carla. I think it’s best if I take things from the top.” Josie told her aunt and led her over to the chairs. Over the next hour and half Josie told her aunt everything. From the undercover assignment to the attack and finally how the attack lead to her current condition.

“I don’t know what to say Joe. As fantastic and impossible as this all sounds. I’m forced to believe it. Simply because the proof is right there in front of me.” Carla said when Josie finished. “Though I do have one question. If the doctors were able to remove the prosthetics why do you still look and sound the way that you do?”

“I could give you all the technical mumbo jumbo, Aunt Carla, but the simple answer is that my body is somehow stuck in a hyperactive state. For some reason, my body’s chemistry matches that of a teenage girl. The doctors and the techs from True Reflections say it’s like my whole system was reset. There are also a few cosmetic changes they couldn’t remove before the neural net short-circuited, so what you see is basically permanent. It’s not just how I look. It’s my voice, my mannerisms, even my metabolism are completely different now. It’s like my body has been reprogrammed and no one really knows how to reverse it.” Josie explained.

“I see. Has the department classified this as a line of duty injury?” Carla asked him.

“Yes ma’am. I’ve already turned down the medical retirement.” Josie told her then explained his reasoning. The whole time Carla just listen and nodded her head.

“Well if your Union Rep couldn’t talk you into retiring I know I can’t. Though you do know that once the press leaks your story your chances at detective go out the window.” Carla told her.

“I know that Aunt Carla, and it doesn’t bother me. Grandpa spent his whole career working a beat. Hell great grandpa never made it pass Patrolman three and he retired from the force after thirty years. Uncle Rick worked patrol right up to the day he had his heart attack. Uncle Ronny is still patrolling the highway only as a Lieutenant. Being a patrolman isn’t an end just another path.” Josie said then told her aunt about joining the Horse Mounted patrol.

“If you’re going to be use in a publicity campaign anyway by the mayor and Downtown. Then you couldn’t go wrong with Mounted patrol. Though are you sure you don’t want to take the medical dear? No one would blame you.” Carla said with real concern.

“I’m sure Aunt Carla. Besides there is no way I can just quit now. Not after busting my ass for the last nineteen months.” Josie told her honestly. “Besides can you think of anyone better suited for mounted patrol than me?”

“Actually yes I can. Sue and Beth were always better riders. At least when it came to Jumping or Dressage.” Carla told her with a smirk. “Now Steeplechase on the other hand there isn’t a better rider in all of Western Maryland.”

“Except for the Wolf family. Those women are crazy.” Josie complained good naturally.

“Doctor Wolf and her daughters have to be the best for what they do, Josie. In the last six years those three women have trained more than fifty horses for police work through their equestrian therapy work over at the school. Hell they even trained my prize jumper.” Carla told her.

“I thought you trained North Star.” Josie said referring to her aunt’s prize Tennessee Walker.

“Nope. Picked him up at a charity auction for the school. Speaking of charity auctions. The Garett county Four-H is holding an auction next month. Want me to pick you up one of Doctor Wolf’s horses if there are any for sell?” Carla said to her.

“No thanks Aunt Carla. I still have to get the shrinks and PT to sign off before I can return to duty. Even then I have to compete six weeks of training before they’ll let me go out on patrol. Then I have to have special permission to use my own horse.” Josie reminded her aunt. The whole they talked Carla watched Josie like a hawk. Waiting to spot some movement that screamed man.

“Josie, tell me about this model those technicians used to model your movements.” Carla said.

“All I can say is that Zaira Nara is a classy lady with a classical ballet background.” Josie said then chuckled softly. “I learned that during my PT this morning. Why are asking?”

“Child if those idiots used Zaira Nara as the guideline for your undercover. Then you won’t have too many problems on the back of a horse. Her husband Jakob von Plessen is one of the world’s premier jockeys and horse trainers. Trust me, that man taught Zaira how to ride. You’ll probably ride even better now.” Carla told Josie.

“How do you figure that Aunt Carla?” Joise asked.

“You said they basically ‘downloaded’ her movements into your subconscious. Well the why you walk, sit, and stand translates into the way you ride a horse. Which for you is a good thing. Zaria Nara is one of the finest horsewoman in Argentina.” Carla told her.

“I hope you’re right, Aunt Carla. Because once I’m cleared for duty. I report to the stables for Mounted duty.” Josie told her with a smile.

“When will that be?” Carla asked.

“If today’s PT was any indication. Sometime in the next two weeks.” Josie said with a smile. The first real smile in the last several days.

“There’s the Joe that I know.” Carla said and patted Josie’s knee before looking at the room clock. “And as much as I hate to say this dear.”

“I understand Aunt Carla. You got a long drive ahead of you.” Josie said then added. “You know you can always stay at my place.”

“I would love to Josie, but I got to get back home. I’m boarding a mare that’s ready to drop her foal any minute day now.” Carla said as she stood up.

“Yah you definitely need to head home. I want pictures of the foal once they’ve been dropped.” Josie told her.

“If I didn’t change your dippers. I would swear you were born a girl.” Carla said with a grin.

“Why do you say that?” Josie asked.

“Because there are times when you act like every girl I know around horse.” Carla chuckled before giving Josie a hug. “Take care of yourself dear and listen to your doctors.”

“Yes ma’am.” Josie grinned.

Walking the Blue Line.
Every rookie police officer knows the dangers of the job by the second week under their training officer. By the end of their training every rookie understands that there are something they can’t control, and not all crimes will be solved. Though all rookies share the same dream. Their first assignment following training. For 21 year old Officer Joe Cartwright of the Baltimore PD that dream is to be a member of the Mounted Patrol. What he got would lead to a life changing path.

Chapter 5
Return to Duty.
Downtown District Station House. 7:00 am, 4 months later.
As Josie walked through the doors of the Downtown District, she did so with a confidence that set her apart from most rookie officers. Very few newcomers to the force could match the assuredness she displayed, and even fewer would show it so openly in their stride.

The past four months had been challenging for Josie. It had taken her that long in physical therapy not just to recover, but to come to terms with the changes she was forced to deal with as a woman. Though she had been cleared to return to duty, her adjustment was ongoing. Once a week, she continued to meet with her psychologist, working through the emotional and psychological aftermath of her forced gender change.

Her struggles were compounded by the unwanted attention from the media. The press had managed to obtain her personnel records, and the situation worsened when they published her picture in connection with the Twisted Blue case. The exposure made an already difficult transition even more challenging, by adding a layer of public scrutiny to her private battles.

As she approached the lobby desk Josie noticed a young man standing off to the side holding a folder, a uniform on a hanger, and police issue duffel bag. Walking up to him Josie sit her duffel bag down and held out her hand. “Hi I’m Josie Cartwright.”

“Neil Pattrick.” He said and set down his duffle bag to shake her hand. “I’m transferring in from the Northwest district. How about you?”

“West District. Which unit are you reporting to?” Josie asked politely.

“Motor Patrol. You?” Neil answered referring to motorcycle patrol.

“I got Mounted Patrol.” Josie answered with a smile.

“I know this is going to sound corny, but you can pay me enough to put up with the horse shit of Mounted Patrol.” Neil snarked offering the oldest joke about the Horse Mounted Patrol and police work. Josie just grimaced and shook her head.

“Neil that joke is so old that it’s mummified.” Josie grunted.

“I know it’s old but still a good one.” Neil chuckled then turned thoughtful. “Don’t take this the wrong way Josie, but you look like that transgender cop.”

“Because I am the transgender cop. You got a problem with that?” Josie almost snarled.

“Not really, I just can’t believe you made it through the academy. I mean they must have been going out of their way to drive you out.” Neil told her honestly.

“Let’s just say I was already being held to higher standards than other cadets. And not just because I’m transgender. I also had to deal with my family’s reputation.” Josie told him bluntly.

“Let me guess. You come from a big cop family?” Neil asked.

“I’m fourth generation PD blue. How about you?” Josie said.

“First one in my family. Though I can understand your situation.” Neil told her.

“How so?” Josie asked him.

“I come from a big Army family. My first diaper was GI issue.” Neil joked then turned serious. “My dad expected me to join the army after high school. Instead I went to college for criminal law on a baseball scholarship. Halfway through my senior year I blew out my knee and lost my ride. After I recovered I applied to the academy. The rest as they say is history.”

“You two our transfers?” The desk Sergeant asked from behind the desk.

“Yes sir.” Joise answered and walked over to the desk. “I was told to see a Captain Mathews.” Josie told him as she handed over her transfer orders.

“Go down that hall take the third right. You’ll find Captain Mathews’ office at the end.” The Sergeant said and handed back the folder after taking out of copy of her orders.

“Thanks Sergeant.” Josie said before turning to Neil. “Maybe I’ll see on the streets.”

“Maybe.” Neil said before Josie turned and walked off. Once she was out of earshot Neil looked over at the Desk Sergeant. “At least they have her in working a publicity unit. Leaving the real police work to real cops.”

“Son I suggest you correct your fucking attitude. That little lady was working undercover before she ever completed her rookie year. Thanks to her work a major drug ring was taken down, and a serial killer that had terrorized five cities was busted.” The Desk Sergeant told Neil.

“That might true, but it was real cops who did the actual arrests.” Neil countered.

“Listen up, Officer,” the Sergeant said. “Josie Cartwright volunteered for a dangerous undercover assignment instead of returning to patrol, despite the risks. She spent over a month recovering from severe injuries in the hospital and three more on medical leave. She's earned her place here, while you're still proving yourself. Understood?” The Sergeant handed Neil his folder and a key.

“Report to Officer Daniels in the motorpol. Your locker is third from the end on the last row. Now leave my area.” As Neil walked away, he wondered what he'd done to upset the Desk Sergeant. Meanwhile, Josie was introducing herself to her new Captain.

“Excuse me sir, but are you Captain Mathews?” Josie asked form the door to his office.

“Come on in and take a seat Officer. I’ll be right with you.” The captain said as held his hand over the receiver of his desk phone. “Mr., Harper I told you that we need to have the hay here by Thursday. I understand your position sir, but you signed a contract with the city.”

“Sir tell Harper that if he doesn’t have that hay here by Thursday per his contract, you’ll call Walians Acme in Hagerstown.” Joise said without thinking.

“Walians Acme?” The captain asked before covering the receiver. “What? Oh nothing Mr. Harper. I was just talking to one of my officers. They mention something about getting his hay and feed for his personal horses from Walians Acme in Hagerstown. Well of course, we don’t want to change suppliers but if you can’t meet your delivery dates I’ll be forced to look to a more reliable contractor. Of course, see you on Thursday.”

“Arrogant asshole. If he didn’t have that damn contract I would love to call Walians Acme. But we can’t.” The captain said as he hung up the phone. Taking a deep breath he looked up a Josie. “You my new officer?”

“Yes sir.” Josie said and handed over her transfer folder. “Excuse me sir, but what was Harper’s excuse for delaying our hay?”

“Harper said his cost of delivery has gone up and can’t afford to make more than two trips per month into the city. He just doesn’t understand that we can’t store as much hay as we like because of city health codes.” The captain explained as he looked over Josie’s personnel jacket.

“Sir if Harper keeps delaying your deliveries go ahead and cancel his contract. I can get my aunt to fill our hay stores weekly.” Josie offered.

“That’s right you’re Carla North’s nephew. Sorry I mean niece. You probably don’t remember me, but I know your family Josie. Back before you were born and your parents meet I was your father’s partner. That was before your father took the transfer to Frostburg.” At Josie’s look of shock Mathews waved for her to set down.

Captain Mathews leaned forward and spoke candidly to Josie Cartwright. “Look, I’ll be honest with you, Cartwright. When I heard Josie Cartwright was being assigned to my unit, I stormed the Commissioner’s office. Not because you’re transgender, I know the truth about your situation and how you ended up here, but because I have thirty-two qualified officers for Mounted Patrol, including myself, and only twenty-six horses.” He paused for emphasis, then continued.

“That means, on any shift, I have thirteen officers on horseback and the other five riding shotgun in a patrol car. With you, that’s one more officer I have to put in a car until you’re trained for mounted duty.” Mathews’ tone grew more direct.

“To be blunt, officer, the last thing I need is a public relations officer who doesn’t even know how to ride.” He watched Josie closely, awaiting her response to his concerns about her readiness and the practical challenges of integrating her into the Mounted Patrol unit.

“I understand sir, but I think I can put your worries to rest. I already know how to ride, and I also know mounted procedures.” Josie told him with confidence.

“Care to explain that Cartwright?” Mathews asked as he sat back in his chair.

“For starters sir, I’ve been riding since I was six years old. I’ve been Eventing since I was twelve. I grew up around horses sir. Also as part of my rehab I spent the last two months with a family friend learning Mounted Patrol procedures at their farm.” Josie told him honestly.

“Who’s this family friend?” Mathews asked in bewilderment.

“Doctor Victoria Wolf, in Garette county sir.” Josie answered honestly.

“You couldn’t have found a better shrink. I take it she was the one to sign off your return to duty?” Mathews asked with a smile. Josie just nodded her head. “If that’s the case I only got one problem. It concerns the locker room.”

“About that sir. I know there will be problems with the other women in the unit, but there will be just as many problems with the men. That’s why I won’t use the showers unless I absolutely have to. So long as I never drop my panties in front of the other officers. I can guarantee that one of them will ever know what is between my legs sir.” Josie assured him. At his look of consideration Josie made him offer. “Sir if you like I can use the men’s lock room, and you can see for yourself.”

“I’ll take your word for it Cartwright. Do you have the correct uniform with you?” Mathews asked as he pointed towards Josie’s uniform.

“Yes sir. I picked everything up last week after Doctor Wolf signed off on my return to duty.” Josie told him as she stood up and showed him the dark blue breeches, uniform shirt, English riding boots, vest, winter jacket, and helmet. “I also have working breeches and paddock boots in my duffle bag. In case you want me to muck out the stalls.”

“Not today Cartwright. Go get changed into duty uniform and meet over at the motorpol.” Mathews told her as he handed her a key and piece of paper. “That’s your locker assignment. Don’t lose the key. It costs the department seventy-five dollars to replace them.”

“Yes sir.” Josie said with a smile and headed for the women’s locker room. It didn’t take her long to find her locker. As she stripped down to her lingerie another female officer entered the locker room. The woman took one look at how Josie was dressed.

“Where did you get your under breeches?” She asked.

“Website called the Lady Equestrian. They specialize in women’s equestrian wear.” Josie said as she pulled on her long sleeve base layer shirt.

“I so got to order me a few pairs. I’m Sally McGragor.” The woman said and held out her hand.

“Josie Cartwright.” Josie said as she shook the outstretched hand. Sally blinked her eyes then looked Josie up and down.

“Don’t take this the wrong way, but how could anyone ever mistake you for a boy. When did you start your transition in grade school?” Sally asked.

“Believe it or not I live as a man for twenty-three years. I even served five years in the army as an MP. I got three tours of duty in Afghanistan.” Josie told her as she pulled on her boot socks.

“Well welcome to the Mounted Patrol. Do you know who your TO is going be?” Sally asked as she stripped down to dress for patrol. Seeing Sally in just her panties and bra Josie reached into her duffle bag. Pulling out a pair of under breeches and handed them to Sally.

“Here I packed a spare set. You’ll find they smooth and support you while eliminates panty lines and boasts a seamless, gusseted crotch design for comfort.” Josie told her then added with a soft chuckle. “Don’t worry they’re brand new. I just took them out of the package this morning.”

“Damn girl. You must have been riding for a long time to know about these.” Sally said.

“Since I was a kid. As for knowing about under breeches. I learn about them from my aunt. She’s been riding for almost forty years. Oh I almost forgot. You want to wear over the calf boot socks.” Josie told her as she pulled up her uniform breeches.

“I got to say. I can already feel the deference. I can’t believe I’ve been working Mounted Patrol for two years and never heard of under breeches.” Sally said as she sat down and pulled on a second pair of boots socks.

“What’s with the second pair of socks?” Josie asked her as she pulled on her uniform shirt.

“I kind of need them. I can’t find a pair of boots in a five and a half. So I get size six and double up my socks.” Sally told her as she pulled on her uniform breeches.

“Have you tried Ariat or Dover Saddlery?” Josie asked as she tucked her shirt tail in.

“No. Do they have websites?” Sally asked as she pulled on her long sleeve base layer shirt. When Josie saw the name brand she sighed.

“Sally don’t take this the wrong way, but where the fuck have you been shopping for your base wear and other nonuniform equestrian clothing?” Josie asked as she sat down to pull on her boots.

“Harm and More uniforms. Why?” Sally asked as she pulled on her uniform shirt.

“Okay. Look I don’t mean to sound like a bitch but their the wrong people to shop for women’s equestrian clothing. How many of our female officers shop there for other than their uniforms?” Josie asked as she stood up and stamped her feet setting boots.

“All of us why?” She asked.

“Oh man. Look pass the word to the other females. Meet back here at end of shift for an all experiences paid shopping trip. I’m paying. Don’t worry I can afford the shopping spree.” Josie told her as she pulled on her winter jacket.

“You do know that there are another twelve females in the Mounted Division. Oh and that is not counting you and me. Are you sure you want to do this?” Sally asked as she pulled on her boots.

“Trust me Sally. I want to do this. Besides I can afford it. The city paid me a settlement after what happened with the press.” Josie told her as she closed her locker down.

“That was kind of fucked up. I mean you were already dealing with shit that is extremely personal on top of working undercover on the Twisted Blue case. Then that shithead reporter goes and puts your face front page center. I heard you got injured during the take of that serial killer. Is that true?” Sally asked as she secured her duty belt.

“Yes put I don’t want to talk about that, if you don’t mind. I’m still dealing with the whole mess.” Josie told her honestly as Sally pulled on her jacket.

“Sure I get that. At least you’re cop enough not to take the medical retirement like some slugs.” Sally said as she closed her locker.

“Got too much cop in me to do that.” Josie told her as they turned to leave the locker room.

“Say you never said who your TO is for Mounted Patrol.” Sally said.

“I don’t know yet. The just told me to get suited up and meet him in the motorpol.” Josie told her.

“Oh you poor soul. You must have told Skipper that you know how to ride.” Sally chuckled. “Come on. I got to get to roll call, and you need to meet up with the Skipper. Though I got to know why you would tell him you knew how to ride.”

“Well he was worried about having to train in how to ride.” Josie said before she was interrupted.

“Someone told the Skipper they could ride are they crazy?” Another female officer remarked as they approached the locker room. “Hay Sally who’s the new meat?”

“Carrie Storm meet our newest rider Josie Cartwright. The gal who’s treating the ladies of Mounted Patrol to a shopping spree at the end of shift. So be nice.” Sally told her.

“Can you at least ride?” Carrie asked Josie.

“I’ve been riding since I was six. Not just western but hunt seat was well. By the time I was twelve I competing in dressage, cross country, and showjumping.” Josie told her bluntly.

“Holy shit you were Eventing at twelve?” Carrie asked in total surprise before running into the door jam. “Oh damn it that hurt.”

“I’m just full of surprises.” Josie smirked then asked. “Which way to the motorpol?”

“Take that hall to the far end and turn right go through the double doors. See you this evening.” Carrie said as they neared the bullpen.

“Thanks. See you later.” Josie said and headed for the motorpol.

“I got twenty that says she won’t last the day.” A male Mounted Patrol officer said as he walked up to Sally and Carrie as they entered the bullpen. “Any takers?”

“Put your money away Skinner. Cartwright’s been riding since she was six. If anyone is going to be in for a hard time keeping up it’s the Skipper.” Sally told him.

“Cartwright? As in that DEI hire we got stuck with. That Cartwright?” Skinner bitched.

“Drop it Skinner. Cartwright earned their shoot with us. Besides, if anybody should have a bitch it’s us. She’s using our locker room after all.” Sally snarled.

“Wait. That hottie was a guy?” Carrie asked with a grin then turned serious. “Skinner the captain might not have given you shit birds the low down on our new rider, but he did for us. She was actually supposed to join our division three months ago. She got fucked up really bad during the take down of that serial killer. Enough that she’s been on mandatory medical leave until today.”

“You mean to tell me those rumors we’ve been hearing about him being some kind of super cop are true?” Skinner asked in surprise.

“If you’re talking about Josie Cartwright, Skinner. It’s her and yes the rumors are true. I talked with one of the Detectives that worked the Twisted Blue case with her. They had nothing but praise for the little lady. Believe me when I say she isn’t a DEI or publicity stunt. If even half of what he said is true. We’ll be the ones trying to keep up with her.” The shift Sergeant told them.

“No offence Sergeant Grady but why do we have to get stuck with the DEI hire? Why can he be happy working patrol? Better yet why not send him over to Vice to work the with the rest of the freaks? We got good cops working a desk. Let him take over one of them.” Skinner demanded.

“Skinner this is your only fucking warning. Drop the attitude or turn in your badge and gun. I mean it. Officer Cartwright more than earned her place here and in any unit. If it wasn’t for that fucking reporter she would have been give her choice on any detective squad. Now she’s stuck working patrol for the rest of her career.” Sergeant Grady snarled.

“Skinner I don’t care about your personal fucking hang ups. You give Cartwright any shit, any at all, I’ll report your ass to Professional Standards myself.” Carrie snapped.

“She isn’t the only one Skinner. Better yet. Just transfer over to another unit. We don’t need officers like you in our division.” A tall male officer snarled.

“Don’t tell me you’re on their side Harper?” Skinner asked in surprise.

“Let’s just say I’m willing to give her the chance she’s earned to be here. Unlike your sorry ass Skinner I read the case files that earned Cartwright her place in this division. I also read her file. To be blunt Skinner next to her you’re nothing more than a slug.” Harper sneered. “Now do us all a favor and turn in your badge.”

“Fine if you guys want to work with the DEI hire. Knock yourselves out. Sergeant I want a transfer.” Skinner said with a frown. “Just don’t expect backup from the real cops.”

“That’s fucking it Skinner. You just earned yourself two weeks unpaid leave. You can wait for me in my office.” Sergeant Gardy snarled.

“This is bullshit. You’ll be hearing from my rep.” Skinner snarled back.

“Go right ahead and call me, Skinner.” Another police officer said as he joined them in the bullpen area. “Only the Union won’t be supporting you. Before you bitch. There are seven other officers on unpaid leave for the same bullshit harassment against LGBTQ officers. The days of you homophobe assholes being protected by the union are over.”

“What the fuck is the world coming to when decent cops are being fucked over for the freaks we used to bust.” Skinner spat. “Well two people can play the discrimination card Yates.”

“Skinner let me give you some advice. Take the suspension and apply for a transfer to another city. Say some place out west. Because by the time the HR department gets done with you. No department will touch you with a ten foot cattle prod. If you think I bluffing talk with Hines over in the Southeast. He just lost his case.” Yates told him.

“Fine if you wanted to work with the freaks. Go right ahead with your DEI horseshit. Sooner or later you and the department will learn they’re making a mistake. I just hope it isn’t too late.” Skinner spat as he pulled off his badge and gun before setting them on the bullpen podium. Before he walked out Skinner gave one last parting shoot. “I just hope the department’s DEI policies don’t get a good cop killed before it’s too late.”

“God what an asshole. I wonder how many more there are like him in the department.” Grady sighed. As he picked up the badge and service weapon. “I hate to say about an asshole, but Skinner is a good cop. He’s just pissed off because he was passed over for Detective again. This is his third strike. He either transfers to another department or stays in patrol until there’s an open Sergeant’s position somewhere in the department other than patrol.”

“Doesn’t give him an excuse to be a fuck head Sergeant Gary.” Carrie grunted.

“Especially towards an officer who was injured in the line of duty during an undercover assignment he lacks the balls for in the first place. The kick in the head is she was outed by a leak in the department. One that damned near blew five Narcotics and two Organized Crime cases.” Gardy told the gathered officers. Looking at the time Grady shifted to business. “Okay people listen up. We got to BOLOs this morning. Both in connection to a missing persons.”

Downtown Motorpol
When Josie found Captain Mathews he was standing next to a police pickup truck with a horse trailer. As she walked up to him Josie asked. “Excuse me sir but what’s with the trailer?”

“Here’s the deal Cartwright. The Mounted Patrol patrols just over eighty square miles of parks and eleven square miles of waterways in the Baltimore area year around. That doesn’t count parade and special event duties. The safest way to get our equine partners to and from our patrol areas is by trailer. Currently we have three four-horse trailers and one two-horse trailer. So not only do you have to know how to ride but drive a pickup truck with trailer.” Mathews told her as he handed her the vehicle logbook. “Let’s see what your Patrol TO taught you.”

“Yes sir.” Josie said as she began her inspection of the truck and trailer. The first thing Josie noticed was the cracked passenger side taillight. While Officer Nolan never trained her in how to tow or hook up a trailer her father had. After checking the ball latch and chains Josie tugged on the trailer electrical hookup for the lights. With a firm shove Josie reset the lose plug. “Sir can you please turn on the lights?”

“Nice catch Cartwright. You’ve dealt with trailers before.” Mathews said with a smile.

“I dealt with my first horse trailer when I was eight sir. I lost count of the number of times I hooked up our family’s for competitions. Though it has been awhile since I last hooked up one up.” Josie told him as she walked to the rear of the trailer. “Sir do we have any spare bulbs?”

“Why?” Mathews asked in confusion as he joined her at the rear of the trailer. When he saw the dark taillight Mathews sighed. “There should be spares in the toolbox. Passenger side.”

Josie just nodded and went to check the toolbox. A few minutes later she returned with a new bulb and a Philps screwdriver. Ten minutes later the bulb was changed and the cover replaced. “Sir how often does this trailer blow taillights?”

“Why are you asking?” Mathew wondered where Josie was going.

“Simple sir. If this trailer is blowing taillights on a regular basis then we could have a short somewhere in the wiring harness. My father had a similar problem with our trailer.” Josie said.

“Then write it up in the logbook and include your suspicions.” Mathew told her. “Are you done with your walk around or is there something else you need to check?”

“As this is the first time I pulling this trailer. I want to check the inside, and the loading ramp sir. But I can do that at the stables.” Josie told him.

“Okay. Do you know how to get there?” Mathews asked as he waved for her to get in.

“Not from here sir. I can get there from my condo with my eyes shut.” Josie told him as she moved to the passenger side of the truck.

“At least you’re honest. By the way get behind the wheel. I want to see how you do actually pulling the trailer.” Mathews told he as he tossed her the keys. “Don’t worry I give good directions for an Officer. I learned how from your father.”

“Yes sir.” Josie said with a chuckle as she moved around the truck to the driver’s side. Once they were driving Mathews was impressed with Josie’s handling of the truck and trailer. As they made the trip to the stables Mathews quizzed Josie on her horse knowledge. Even when he tried to trip her up with trick questions Josie sidestepped the trap. When they finally reached the stables Mathews had one last test instore for Josie.

“Back the trailer into the load area. This is a timed proficiency test officer.” Mathews told her as he checked his watch. Josie just smiled and backed the trailer into the loading area without using the trailer mounted backup camera. “Damn. Five minutes from start to finish. That is the fastest anyone has ever maneuvered a trailer into position.”

“I told you sir. I’ve been dealing with horse trailers since I was eight. My mother may have done the road driving when my dad couldn’t make a competition, but I always parked the trailer for my mom.” Josie chuckled as she set the parking brake.

“If I didn’t know better Cartwright. I would swear you were farm raised.” Mathews chuckled as he climbed out of the truck. “Come on. I’ll introduce you to your partner for the day.”

“Yes, sir.” Josie said as she closed the door. Ten minutes later Joise was looking at a four year old Chestnut Tennessee Walker mare with a white blaze. The name on the stall door read Star Dancer. Holdin out her hand to the horse Josie talked softy to the mare. “Hello pretty lady. Want to get out of there for the day?”

“Damn. I’ve never seen Star nuzzle a hand like that before.” Mathews gasped. “She normally bits people when she first meets them like this.”

“Root beer candy drops work wonders with temperamental mares and fillies.” Josie chuckled as she held out a handful of the aforementioned hard brown candies.

“That is playing dirty Officer Cartwright.” Mathews chuckled. “But I can’t fault you. Who told you about the Star Dancer test?”

“The test has been around for years sir. The Mounted Patrol has been testing newbies with the most unpredictable horse in the stables at the time. Though I do have a question sir. I can tell that this stable is big enough to house forty horses. Why do we only have twenty-six horses?” Josie asked as she pulled open the stall door.

“Reality check time, Cartwright. Currently the Mounted Division is being kept afloat with donations from privet citizens. As such we don’t have the funds for our full complement. We made be one of the oldest Mounted patrol units in America, but our budget keeps getting slimmer and slimmer every year.” Mathews said as he opened the next stall and stepped inside.

“Excuse me sir. Is that why we’re having to pay for our uniforms, boots, and helmets out of our own pockets?” Josie asked she took a curry brush to Star Dancer.

“Pretty much Cartwright. I would give my eye teeth to see all these stalls filled once more.” Mathews told her as he brushed down his own mount.

“Sir, how many of the female officers were trained to ride by you?” Josie asked out of the blue.

“Of the twelve female officers not counting you under my command. I trained ten of them. Only Lieutenant Sarah Albertson and Sergeant Angie Stone on second shift were trained by my predecessor. Why are you asking?” Mathews asked her.

“Well sir, while I was changing that Sally McGragor and Carrie Storm were missing certain personal items that should be part of their uniform. Not so much for appearances but comfort during their duty shift.” Josie told him as she slipped Star Dancer’s bridle over her head. “Good girl, you’re not so mean are you?”

“Did you just get Star Dance to take her bit without getting bit yourself?” Mathews asked from his stall in total surprise. When Josie nodded Mathews chuckled. “I can’t wait to see you ride.”

“Why do you say that sir?” Josie asked as she attached a lead rope to the bridle.

“Because in the last half hour you have shown more horsemanship than every officer in the unit and that includes me. It’s like you were born in the saddle as they used to say.” Mathews told her.

“They still say that in parts of Maryland sir.” Josie chuckled as she tied Star Dancer to a hitching ring outside the stall. “Do we have time to much the stalls sir?”

“That’s next in our daily duties Cartwright.” Mathews answered as he led his own mount out of its stall. When Josie saw the midnight black stallion she felt a stab of jealousy. The Morgan was big for the breed standing a good 17 hands high. A full hand taller than a normal Morgan. “Meet Sky Warrior, Cartwright. The second most temperamental horse in the stable.”

“Which one is the most temperamental, sir?” Josie asked as she took a pitchfork and went to work cleaning out Star Dancer’s stall.

“You’re riding her for today. If you can handle Star through a full shift. I’ll keep you off the regular patrol rotation.” Mathews told her honestly.

“Understood sir. Though I do have one question.” Josie said.

“What do you need to know?” Mathews asked.

“Where’s the wheelbarrow?” Josie asked earning a laugh from Mathews. Over the next half hour as they muck out the stalls the rest of the Mounted officers for the shift arrived. Because they didn’t attend morning roll call Mathews and Josie were the first ones out of the stables. This time Mathews drove the truck. While Josie tried not to show it, Mathews driving scared the shit out of her. When they reached the parking area for Herring Run Park she practically kissed the ground when she got out of the truck. Turning to face her Captain Josie said. “No offence sir, but who the fuck taught you how to drive?”

“I’m not that bad.” Mathews countered then asked. “Is that any way to talk to a superior officer?”

“Sir please don’t take this the wrong way, but I could feel our mounts kicking the trailer ramp.” Josie joked as she moved the rear of the trailer.

“Okay I’ll confess. It’s been a while since I last pulled a trailer. I normally work the downtown beat and let one of the others drive while I do paperwork.” Mathews told her then chuckles at the look she gave him. “I guess what they say about certain skills getting rusty if you don’t use them. I think it’s been almost four years since I last drove one of the rigs.”

“Sir, please don’t take this the wrong way, but I’ll drive back to the stables at end of shift.” Josie told him with a grin as she lowered the ramp. “At least we don’t have to report damage to the ramp. These babies can cost an arm and leg to replace.”

“Sounds like hard earned experience Cartwright. That and a story.” Mathews said as he entered the trailer to get Sky Warrior out first.

“You could say that sir. Back when I was sixteen my mother loaded my horse after a Four-H show. Like a fool I didn’t check the ramp latches. Halfway back to my Aunt’s farm the ramp dropped. By the time I got pulled over I had dragged the ramp for three quarters of a mile. I had to work a shit load of overtime to replace the ramp.” Josie said as she backed Star Dancer down the ramp. After tying her to the side of the tailer Josie went to the truck bed for her saddle, saddle pad, and the girth. It didn’t take her long to have Star Dancer saddled and ready to ride. While Mathews was saddling Sky Warrior Josie closed the ramp and secured the truck. “Sir do we leave the rig here until the end of our shift?”

“Yes. That’s why we parked at the far end of the lot. Remember when I said we have ninety plus square miles of land and waterways to patrol. This is one of the largest areas we patrol. We cover everything from Hall Spring down to I-eight-ninety-five. That’s three-hundred-and-seventy-five acres of urban woodland and covers two point three miles of the Herring Run stream.” Mathews told her as he mounted his horse.

“That’s a lot of area to cover sir for just two officers.” Josie said as she mounted up.

“That’s why the second mounted patrol is at the South end of the park. As we work our way south along the eastern half they work their way north on the western side. We ride a circular route through the park. This way there is always somebody patrolling the parks. Only the midnight shift doesn’t have a mounted patrol working the parks.” Mathew explained.

“Is it a lack of funding sir or lack of resources?” Josie asked as she thought about her settlement.

“Both really. I’m currently working on a grant proposal. If it comes through I’ll be able to add twelve more horses, two more rigs, and get the rest of the unit out of patrol cars.” Mathews said as they headed for the first park trail. “We follow the trails but stay off of them as much as possible during our patrol.”

“Yes sir, about how many miles is that?” Josie asked him.

“Between the loop, park, horse, and running trails, just under ten miles. In this park alone. When I add in all the other parks with their trails. It comes to just over fifty-eight miles. The Baltimore Greenway Trails Network will expand that by adding another forty-eight miles. That means more foot and bike patrols if the Mounted unit is ever shut down.” Mathews told her as he led the way along the park’s walking trail. As they rode Josie noticed that most of the people using the trail at this time of the day were either jogging or walking.

“Sir, I know this is going to sound like a stupid question. Why are we patrolling the park at this time of the day?” Josie asked him.

“Two reasons. First is to actually keep the morning exercisers safe. The prime time for park muggings is between seven and eight am. Number one targets of those muggings is joggers and walkers. Reason two is this is when most dumped bodies are found. Usually by a some walker’s dog. When the body is found in the parks we’re usually the first unit to respond.” Mathews told her as he led her a little further away from the trail towards the Herring Run waterway. “One of our main concerns during our first sweep of the parks is the waterways.”

“Why’s that sir?” Josie asked as they neared the stream.

“We want to be on the lookout for bodies. Waterways are favorite dumping grounds for criminals. And not just serial killers. Drug dealers, hired hitters, you name it, even your first time murderer knows that water is a great counter forensic measure. By the time a body fills with gas and starts to float most DNA, and physical evidence has washed away.” Mathews told her bluntly.

“So we’re looking for bodies before some nature lover finds them?” Josie asked as they rode.

“That and any signs of people screwing with the herring nests. Don’t forget the waterways are protected zones.” Mathews said with a smile before adding. “And dropping bodies into them is considered an act of illegal dumping.”

“Uuuhhhggg. That was bad sir. I talking that’s a Dad level joke.” Josie groaned before chuckling.

“What can I say. I got a thirteen, eleven, and seven year old at home. All my jokes are dad jokes.” Mathews told her with a grin before turning serious. “Cartwright I got to ask. Why didn’t you take your settlement from the city and run?”

“Because this is all I know sir. Seeing as how you know about the settlement, I assume you know the deal I struck with Downtown and the FBI?” Josie said only to see Mathews nod.

“I know the whole story Josie. I hope you don’t mind me calling you Josie?” Mathews asked.

“No sir. If you’re keeping my secret then I guess I can allow you that.” Josie sighed then asked him. “Just how much were you told by your source?”

“That you really aren’t transgender in the normal sense. From what the Chief of Ds told me. You were a normal rookie. Close to the top of your class, good performance in the field, were twenty days shy of completing your rookie year when the tasking came down. You went undercover using some new kind of tech. Tech that was so good it let you pass as a real trans girl. Then during the second night of your uc assignment something happen. From what I understand you were roofied and then attacked by a serial killer. I was told you spent the next twelve days in a coma, and something went wrong with the tech that helped you go undercover. I don’t know what went wrong with the tech, but I was told it screwed with your body big time.” Mathews told her.

“Then you know that used to be Joe Cartwright. As for what went wrong that is hard to explain. The tech that was used was supposed to be temporary.” Josie told him then went on to explain about how the Twisted Blue and electrical shock from the modified taser reacted with the bio-adaptive cosmetics and structural modification systems. By the time Josie finished with her explanation Mathews could tell there was more to the story.

“What aren’t you tell me Josie?” Mathews asked politely.

“A whole lot sir. Before you ask, sir. I’m under an NDA concerning what I can tell you and what I can’t.” Joise told him honestly.

“Understandable. I take it part of your NDA concerns the tech that was used?” Mathews asked.

“Yes sir. There are currently several undercover operations underway that are using the tech.” Josie told him as she guided Star Dancer around a bolder.

“Understandable. No need to endanger UCs. Though I do have to ask. Are they aware of a possible repeat of your situation?” Mathews asked her.

“They are. Though from what I understand my situation was a one in a million convergence.” Josie answered with a frown.

“From the look on your face. You’re wishing you knew about the risk beforehand.” Mathews said as he guided them away from the water’s edge and back towards the trail.

“Let’s just say I’ve been remind of that old military saying. Never volunteer. Even for KP.” Josie joked as they spotted a group of early morning walkers. “Do the elderly normally use the trails?”

“There’re several Assessed Living Centers that bring the more able residents to the park during the spring, summer, and fall. Though sometimes they bring them during the winter when the weather isn’t too cold, the sun is out, and the trails are clear. Days like today. Speaking of bad weather. We still patrol the parks and waterways during inclement weather. Especially during snowstorms. Though we usually move over to the streets and patrol the less traveled areas.” Mathews told her as they passed the elderly walkers. “Morning folks nice day for a walk.”

“Morning Captain Mathews. Who’s the newbie?” One woman asked him with a smile.

“Morning Mrs. Wells. This is Officer Cartwright. She just joined my unit today.” Mathews said as he reigned Sky Warrior to a stop.

“Morning ma’am.” Josie said as reigned in Star Dancer.

“You must really know your horses young lady. You’re the first officer we’ve seen riding Star Dancer in three years. I think the last person to ride that mare was Sergeant Ben Atlas.” Another old woman said as she reached up and stroked Star’s muzzle. “Good morning Star. You being a good girl for your new rider?”

“In more ways than one, Mrs. Henshaw. Star didn’t even take her customary nibble.” Mathews chuckled bring startled gasps from the old ladies. “Cartwright allow me to introduce the Blue and Gray Society. Everyone here is or was married to a cop. In some cases, both. Like Mrs. Henshaw here. They are also some of our biggest supports.”

“More than that later dear. We’re also part of the Police Auxiliary. We take care of fund raising events and making sure the annual Police Ball happens without any problems.” Mrs. Wells said as she took something from her pocket and held out her hand to Star. The mare quickly, yet very gently, took the sweet from the old woman’s hand. Though mare wasn’t fast enough that Josie didn’t see the small brown hard candy.

“So you’re the one who got her hook.” Josie laughed.

“Don’t blame me young lady. We all know about Star’s love for root beer candies. If you want to blame anyone blame her former rider Ben Atlas. You’ll find him over in the South District Homicide division. You can’t miss him. Tall red head, green eyes, and goes through a pack of Bazoka Joe bubble pre shift.” Mrs. Wells chuckled as she pushed Star’s muzzle back. “Sorry greedy guts. That’s all I got today. I was expecting to see you out and about.”

“Well she wasn’t on the rotation Mrs. Wells. As it is Star Dancer is due to retire at the end of the month. I figured Officer Cartwright could be her last rider.” Mathews said as Star tossed her head.

“How does she rate the retirement horse Tim?” An old man asked him. then held out his hand to Josie. “Captain Jake Slone I retired out of the Northern District.”

“Josie Cartwright newly assigned to the Mounter division. Pleasure to meet you Captain.” Josie said as she leaned down and shook his hand.

“How’s the leg Jake?” Mathews asked him.

“I have my good days. You still haven’t answered my question Tim.” Slone said as they shook.

“Let’s just say that of all the riders currently under my command. Cartwright is probably the most overqualified officer for mounted patrol. From what her Aunt Carla told me. She’s been riding horses since she was six years old and competing since she was twelve.” Mathews chuckled. “The only thing I need to teach is proper procedure for a mount patrol.”

“If her aunt is who I think it is Tim. You won’t have too much to teach.” Jake chuckled. They would have continued to talk with the walkers, but a radio call would call them away.

“Ten-Mike-two-hundred see the man at the East end of Montebello Lake for a possible ten-eighty-nine.” The dispatcher called.

“Copy. Show Ten-Mike-one-hundred and Ten-Mike-fourteen responding.” Mathews said into his radio before turning to Josie. “Okay rookie time to get your feet wet.”

“Hope you can keep up sir?” Josie said with a grin and wheeled Star Dancer in place. Before she spurred the mare Josie tipped her helmet towards the walkers. “Ladies and gentlemen it’s been a pleasure. I hope to see you again.”

As she took off at a high lope Jake Slone turned to Mathews. “Tim I think you just found your replacement for Adams. She’s a spitfire.”

“Yah she is. Look I got to go. See you on Friday.” With that Mathews spurred his horse into a gallop to catch up with Josie. As soon as he did Josie moved Star Dancer into a gallop. Mathews was amazed at not only her skill but the confidence she showed as she rode through the woods towards the lake at the other end of the park. By the time they reached the lake Mathews knew that Josie would be his newest patrol officer.

It didn’t take them long to find the gentleman in question. The possible bomb turned out to be a lost backpack, but they still followed procedure and called for the bomb squad. An hour later the backpack was secured by the bomb squad, and they were back to their patrol. Josie was surprised when the Captain called them out of service at just after one. With a smile Mathews led her out of the park to a nearby McD’s just outside the southern end of the park. Josie had to laugh when Mathews led her through the drive through to place their order. After a lunch of hamburgers, fries, and shakes the two mounted officers returned to their patrol.

“Sir I have to ask. Does that McDs always make you go through the drive through?” Josie asked.

“Only on days that end in y.” Mathews chuckled as they returned to the park.

-----tbc-----

Walking the Blue Line.
Every rookie police officer knows the dangers of the job by the second week under their training officer. By the end of their training every rookie understands that there are something they can’t control, and not all crimes will be solved. Though all rookies share the same dream. Their first assignment following training. For 21 year old Officer Joe Cartwright of the Baltimore PD that dream is to be a member of the Mounted Patrol. What he got would lead to a life changing path.

Chapter 6
Making Friends.
Downtown District Station House. End of Shift 6:15 pm.
Women’s locker room.

“Hey Josie, what’re you doing this evening?” Sally asked as she changed her breeches for jeans.

“Well, I after I swing by Gentery Saddlery to pick up an order from Lady Equestrian nothing much. Why?” Josie said as she changed her breeches for a pair of straight leg jeans.

“Well me and the other riders are headed over to Bradly’s for pizza and beer.” Sally told her as she pulled on her blouse. “I was wondering if you want to join us.”

“Sure. Give me about an hour. I really want to pick my order before they close.” Josie told her.

“What’d you order and from where?” Carrie asked as she stepped around the row of lockers.

“I ordered a couple of winter turtlenecks and leggings, and a few more under breeches from the Lady Equestrian.” Josie told her honestly as three more female officers for the Mounted Patrol joined them on their row of lockers. Not knowing what was going on Josie waved at them. “Hi everyone, I’m Josie. The new girl.”

“More like our newest rockstar. I heard you kept up with the captain today.” A burnet woman said as she stepped up to Josie and shook her hand. “Hi I’m Judy Marten.”

“I hear the captain was having to keep up with her.” A red head said before introducing herself. “June McFeeters and I’m the division union rep.”

“Terry Keys and I’ll be your TO starting tomorrow. Though from what the Captain told me. The only training I’ll be doing is on our patrol routes. Is it true you’ve been riding since you were six years old and Eventing since you were twelve?” Terry asked as she shook Josie’s hand.

“All true. I started riding cross-country when I was ten. I spent my weekends and summers helping my aunt on her horse farm.” Josie told Terry as she slipped a hip holster into the waistband of her jeans. When Josie slipped her off duty weapon into the holster she saw the looks of the other female officers. “What don’t you carry an off duty weapon?”

“Well of course we do. But none of us carry a hand cannon. What is that a ten millimeter?” Sally asked as she slip her hip holster into her pants.

“It’s a Colt Commander M-nineteen-eleven forty-five. Been carrying one since my time in the Military Police.” Josie told her as she pulled on her jacket.

“Aren’t you worry about control?” Terry asked her. “I mean that’s a lot of gun.”

“Contrary to popular belief. The forty-five APC doesn’t have much of a kick. Also the Browning nineteen hundred series pistols were originally designed for women.” Josie told her as she ran a brush through her now shoulder length hair. “I think half the women I know in Garrett county carry a forty-five of some type. Though there is one woman I know that carries a Colt Peacemaker long colt forty-five whenever she rides.”

“Damn. Who is this crazy broad? Why would she need a fucking hand cannon like that in the first place?” Sally asked as she closed her locker.

“Believe it or not, she’s an author who works with the local Four-H club for the Southern Garrett County High School. The kids love her, and the parents respect her. From what I understand she’s former military and a crack shoot. As for why she would need a Colt Peacemaker the answer is simple. Ever face down an angry black bear?” Josie told the gathered women.

“Woah. Talk about a reality check.” June chuckled.

“Trust me. I’m not even from the western part of Maryland and I know not to go up there unarmed during certain times of the year. Those people are crazy.” June chuckled.

“They’re not crazy just diehard hillbillies for the most part.” Josie said as she closed her locker. “Now if you’ll excuse me. I really got to get going.”

“Before you go Josie. Where is this saddle store you’re heading for? I want to pick up a couple pairs of under breeches.” Sally asked her as they headed for the door.

“Forty-six-hundred York Rd. you can’t miss it. It’s right on the corner of East Old Coldspring Lane. If you want you can follow me.” Josie told her as the six females of the Mounted Patrol left the station house. When the other five women saw Josie’s truck they stopped dead in their tracks.

“No wonder you can handle one of our rigs.” Sally said as she pointed at the two tone gray and blue 1995 Ford F-350 crew cab dually. “Where did you get your hands on this beauty?”

“I’ve had her since I was seventeen. I picked her up at the Masion Lodge auction. I had to rebuild the engine before I could drive her.” Josie said as she unlocked the tail gate.

“Well you’ll be ease to follow.” Carrie joked as she headed towards her car. A 2021 red Jeep Wrangler. Josie noticed that the other women were headed for the own cars and had an idea.

“How many of you are planning on following me to Gentry Saddlery?” Josie asked first.

“All of us. Why?” Judy said.

“Then why don’t we save gas and just take my truck. There’s more than enough room for all of us. This beast can seat six comfortably. Just put your stuff in the bed with mine.” Josie offered then grinned. “I’ll even be the Designated Driver for the evening. That way everyone can have a few drinks.”

“Are you sure Josie?” Sally asked with a smile as she set her duffle in the big truck’s bed.

“I wouldn’t have offered if I didn’t. Besides, the way I see it’s the new guy’s duty to play DD first time out.” Josie snarked as the other four women quickly put their duffle bags in the truck bed. “I only have one rule in my truck. No eating or drinking.”

“Understandable. From the looks of it you spent a lot of time restoring this baby.” Terry said as they all climbed into the cab.

“Spend every weekend on her when I wasn’t at an Event. The kids in my Four-H took pictures of every step documenting the restoration. It’s still on the website.” Josie told them as she climbed behind the wheel. “It’s not the only truck anymore. Mine was the first but five more have been add over the years. The sixth one has just been started.”

“Sounds like you’re still active in the Four-H Josie.” Sally said as Josie backed out of her spot.

“I wasn’t until just recently. Working with those kids kind of gives me a sense of peace.” Josie said as she pulled out of the parking lot and into traffic.

“I know what you mean. They helped you with your recovery, Josie. I spend my off days working at the Paws and Tails animal shelter. I find working with abandoned and abused animals relaxing. It’s a great way to destress after a forty hour week.” Terry told her.

“Speaking of our work schedule. What’s with the four ten workweek? I mean the rest of the department is working a standard five eight workweek.” Josie asked them.

“It’s because Mounted Patrol only operates two shifts. One in the morning and one in the evening. Normally we work as single patrols, except for the downtown patrol. That is always done as a pair. We’re actually surprise that the captain took you out today.” Sally told her.

“I got a question guys. I saw the extra stable. Why are we so short on horses and patrolmen?” Josie asked them as she weaved her way through the traffic.

“Because all of our horses are donated. Unless someone donates a horse or we purchase our own horse. That stable will remain empty. That’s why the captain has been busting his ass trying to get that grant. We need at least fourteen more horses and officers to bring our unit to full strength. Though to be honest it would be nice to see the other stable full.” June told her.

“How many horses would that take?” Josie asked as she thought about her settlement.

“Well, if we filled our current stable and the auxiliary stable. We’d need another fifty-four horses. That would bring us to our original complement of eighty officers and horses. The problem would be in finding and training officers to bring us up to full strength.” Terry told her.

“I know the captain would be happy with enough horses and officers to fill out both shifts. That would be forty horses and officers.” June told them. “I know that if we had forty horses the captain would have his pick of rookies coming out of the academy.”

The more Josie heard the more she wanted to help. As she drove Josie thought about the settlement True Reflections, the FBI, and the city paid her to keep her mouth shut about her accident. She originally only wanted the money from the city, but Kelly Ramsy had filled the other lawsuits on her behalf against True Reflections and the FBI. The FBI paid him another two million because they wanted to cover up their mistakes in the serial killer case. True Reflections was even quicker to settle to keep their name out of the papers. She ended up with just over ten million dollars when all was said and done. That was way more money than she could ever spent.

“Why would the captain want rookies? Wouldn’t he be better off with officers that have completed the FTO program?” Josie asked.

“Josie you may not realize it, but you have a leg up on most officers that apply to the Mounted unit. You already know how to ride. Because of that we only have to go over procedure with you. The average training for a mounted officer is six to seven weeks before we start training them in Mounted Procedure. By getting rookies we can trained them not only in regular procedure but mounted procedures at the same time. We also get Officers for at least a year before they started looking to move up the ranks in some other unit. Retention is our biggest concern. We’re constantly losing officers to other divisions.” June told her as Josie pulled into the parking lot for Gentry Saddlery. “I pass this place every day on my way to work. I thought they only sold saddles and tack for horses.”

“You can find everything you need for riding here. Let me take that back. There are certain saddles they don’t sell like trick, reigning, and pack saddles.” Josie told them as she shut down the big truck. “I won’t be long but you’re welcome to look around.”

“Are you kidding Josie? Look is about all we can do here. The only place we can afford is Harm and More uniforms.” Carrie snorted.

Thinking fast Josie asked. “Don’t you know about the Mounted Officers Uniform Fund?”

“What uniform fund?” They all asked her at the same time.

“Some rich lady with ties to the Mounted Division left something like two and half a million dollars in a fund to cover essentials. Though the only place you can use the fund is here or Nelson Equestrian. That’s how I can afford most of my order.” Josie lied as she exited the truck.

“Why only here and Nelson Equstrain?” Carrie asked as she climbed out.

“Because she set the fund up to be used only by the Mounted Division. The only reason I know about it is because I know the store owners. All you have to do is show your badge and proof you’re with the Mounted division.” Josie told them as the six women headed inside the store. “Why don’t you look around. I’m sure there a few things you can pick up while we’re here.”

“Thanks Josie. Hopefully they have boots in my size.” Sally said and headed for the footwear.

“She’s not the only one who needs a pair of boots that fits.” June said and joined her.

“Where can I find those under breeches?” Carrie asked and Josie just pointed towards the women’s section. “Thanks. Hopefully they have some in my size.”

“What are under breeches?” Terry asked.

“Trust me you want to get a couple of pairs Terry. Josie loaned Sally a pair and she’s already ordered six pairs online. She couldn’t stop talking about how they helped in saddle.” Carrie told her as the two women headed for the women’s section.

“I think I’ll just browse around.” June said with a smile leaving Josie alone. With the other five women looking through the store Josie headed for the service counter.

“Is Mrs. Gentry here?” Josie asked the sails lady currently on the counter.

“Just a moment. Can I said who is asking?” The woman asked.

“Tell her Josie Cartwright is here and needs to talk with her.” Josie told her.

“Be right back.” The woman said and hurried off. While she waited Josie took out her personal checkbook. She quickly wrote a check for $2,500,000 to the store. When the woman returned she was accompanied by an older woman.

“Hello Josie, we have your order in back. Alice please go grab the Cartwright order.” Once they were alone Mrs. Gentry got down to business. “Now how can I help you Josie?”

“I want to set up a fund for uniform incidentals for my fellow officers on the Mounted division. Will this be enough?” Josie asked her as she handed over the check.

“I take it you don’t want your fellow officers to know that you’re the one behind the money?” Mrs. Gentry asked only to see Josie nod her head. Mrs. Gentry just handed the check back. “In that case tell your friends to put everything on the JC Stables account. I’ll send you the bill at the end of the month like normal.” Mrs. Gentry said as she tore up the check. “Just tell me one thing Josie. Why are you doing this?”

“These officers are having to buy their equipment just to ride comfortably out of their own pocket. That ain’t right Mrs. Gentry. Hell most of them don’t have boots that fit correctly. Let alone proper foundation undergarments for long term riding.” Josie told her before lowering her voice. “Mrs. Gentry most of them only learned how ride after they were assigned to the division.”

“Oh dear that’s not good. Never mind the bill let me handle everything dear. Where are they?” Mrs. Gentry said as she came around from behind the counter.

“Three are over in the women’s section and two are looking at boots.” Josie told her as she picked up her order. “How much do I owe?”

“Just take everything over to the cashier then join me over on the sales floor.” Mrs. Gentry said then changed her mind. “On second thought take care of your friends over in the undergarments. I’ll take care of your friends over by the boots. When they’re done shopping let me know.”

“Yes ma’am.” Josie said and headed over to the sales counter with her order. After putting her order on the counter Josie headed over to June, Terry, and Carrie. By the time josie got done recommending items. Each woman’s arms were full. Josie suggested they place everything on the checkout counter then check out the boots. While the others were shopping Josie paid for her order and took it out the truck.

What had started off as a simple spot to pick an order turned into a major shopping spree for the five seasoned members of the Mounted patrol. Each woman ended up with 6 pairs of padded briefs, 6 under breeches, 6 minimal bounce bras, 6 winter turtlenecks and leggings, 6 pairs of winter boot socks, a pair of paddock boots, and a pair of tall field boots. Each woman had close to $1500 dollars in merchandise. When the totals arrived Mrs. Gentry entered an override code and gave them all a 90% discount. Bring the total down to around $150 dollars for each woman. To Josie’s surprise they were all able to cover the much lower bills. With bags and boxes in hand the six women left the store much happier than they arrived.

“Damn that fund must be major. I know horseback riding isn’t cheap, but I never realized it was that expensive. How do the Four-H kids afford it? What do they do? Work two or three jobs?” Terry asked as she put her bags in the bed of Josie’s truck.

“Well most of the kids in Four-H work their family’s farm or odd jobs during the summer. Then in the fall take part time jobs to cover their costs. I know that I worked for Weller Feed and Seed while I was in high school. I got paid slightly better than minimal wage. It was more than enough to cover my costs.” Josie told her then chuckled. “At least we’re not having to pay for Show wear. Now that shit really gets fucking expensive.”

“How can it be more expensive than what we just saw?” Terry asked in surprise.

“Try nine-hundred for a shirt, jacket, and breeches and that’s without the boots. With boots you’re looking at somewhere around fifteen-hundred. If you add in a hat, helmet, gloves, belt, and other accessories that nine hundred dollars can jump to twelve even thirteen hundred dollars.” Josie told them honestly as she closed the tailgate to the truck. “So where do you want to go first? Back to the station to drop this off at your cars or stop for a beer and pizza?”

“Beer and pizza.” They all said as one. June smiled. “Besides we saw you working out a deal with the shop owner for the discount. What did you say to her?”

“I’ve known Mrs. Gentry for close to twenty years. She fitted me with my first pair of paddock boots. She helped me with my first set of breeches and field boots. I bought my first Hunt seat from her. So when I told her that the ladies of the Mounter Patrol were in disparate need of her help. She stepped up. Most of what she discounted will be used as a tax write off.” Josie told her.

“Damn, talk about working the system.” June chuckled.

“She’s not working the system June. Just doing some creative accounting. Besides, every time she discounts something for the Mounted Patrol she can declare it as a donation. She does it all the time for the local Four-H clubs. At years-end donations qualify as tax deductions. Believe me she needs every deduction she can get.” Josie told them as she climbed into the driver’s seat.

The others quickly followed by climbing in. Soon the six women were headed for Bradley’s Pies and Stiens. Even as they pulled into traffic Josie was beginning to understand that she had a major leg up on other newcomers to the Mounted division. Then again she wasn’t a normal Mounted Officer. Ever since she was six riding horses had been her escape. When her parents died riding had been her solace during that dark time. When she came home from her first tour of duty in Afghanistan riding had helped her with leaving the horrors of combat behind her. Then when she was forced to deal with her changing body riding was the only thing that kept her grounded.

“Say Josie, I got to ask. There’s a rumor going around about that undercover assignment you were on.” June said out of the blue. “Is it true that a mole almost blew the whole case?”

“Yup. The asshole tried to destroy more than just my case. There were a total of nine cases the mole endangered. Not all of them were in Vice either. The Chief of D’s had to pull three long term UCs because of the asshole.” Josie snarled.

“That sucks. What happened with your case?” Sally asked politely.

“The whole Vice division had to move fast. We had less than twenty-four hours before everything blew up in our faces. We were able to roll up the whole Twisted Blue operation. Not to mention taking down that slug Thorton and the Dead Demons.” Josie told her.

“Then you really did work your way inside in just one night’s work?” June asked in surprise.

“That part is nothing but rumor. I got nowhere close to getting on the inside, but I did figure out their whole distribution network. I also spotted the main players and how they were working the deal.” Josie told her as she made the turn for Bradly’s Pies and Steins.

“I got to ask Josie. What was the mole threatening to expose?” Sally asked her.

“Two things. The first that I wasn’t a real cop, but a hooker turned CI. The second was that I’m transgender and nothing more than a DEI publicity stunt.” Josie said as she pulled to the end of the parking lot. “I really need to find a smaller truck for around town.”

“No offence Josie, but who cares if you’re trans. I know the Union has your back.” June said.

“It’s all about the optics June. That slug Thorton is trying to discredit my testimony. Which isn’t a bad strategy except for one problem. The department knew I was transgender from the day they hired me.” Josie told them as she pulled into a parking lot. Before she shut down her truck josie turned to face the others. “Look this is a personal journey. It’s also one that I don’t need or want plastered all over the news. It has nothing to do with the undercover operation that I was part of.”

“That may be true Josie, but you have to admit being trans helped with you getting close to the pros over on Oceanside. You can’t fool those gals down on the stroll.” Terry said.

“As much as I hate to say this Terry, you’re right. It shouldn’t matter but it does. Which is why I go out of my way to just be a solid cop. Being trans is just me being me.” Josie told them as she climbed out of the pickup truck. The others were quick to follow.

“So what’s you’re plan now that you’ve been outed?” Carrie asked as she closed her door.

“For now I just want to finish my training and complete my RLT. While saving up enough vacation time and money for my SRS. The docs tell me I’ll need at least four to six weeks to recover from the surgery. All of which is unpaid time off because SRS is still considered elective surgery. As it is I only have two weeks of vacation time on the books. If I add in my personal days I get another week.” Josie told her.

“Damn, that sucks ass. I mean we get a mandatory three months for maternity leave at the minimum. Most female officers use the full six months. I won’t even go into the mandatory three weeks for an on duty injury at the minimum. Then you got the bullshit you got to deal with if you’re involved in a shooting.” June told them as they walked towards the door for pizza joint.

“Speaking of duty injuries. How long were you out Josie?” Sally asked her.

“Between my physical therapy and the shrinks just over four months. It would have been longer, but I got a waver to use my regular therapist. Most department shrinks don’t deal with transgender patients. The only one who does is a subcontractor for the city. Thanks to her schedule I was able to use my regular therapist.” Josie explained for the other women as they entered the restaurant.

They had just stepped up to the hostess’s counter when one of the male officers waved at them. “Over here ladies. The pies are already ordered, and the beer is waiting.”

“Thanks Danny.” Sally called back and led the way over to the table. As the ladies of the Mounted patrol took their seats Sally introduced the men. “Okay Josie starting with the loudmouth we have Danny Lockleer. His normal patrol area is Television Heights park. Next to him is Steve Harper, followed by Mike Thomason. They usually work the downtown area. Up next is Pete O’mally, he’s our floater. The stoney goon next to Carrie is Sargeant Gardy. He normally patrols the Gwynn Falls-Leakin Park with me. Lastly we have TJ Shear. His patrol area is Druid Hill and the zoo.”

“Damn that is a lot of area to cover.” Josie said as she took her seat.

“It’s not that bad. We do get support from the bicycle patrol. The only time we’re on our own is during snowstorms. Then it’s just us out there. Though we usually get pulled to cover the downtown areas when snowstorms hit.” Sargeant Gardy told her with a smile.

“Anybody heard the forecast for tomorrow?” Thomason asked.

“Wear your long-johns kiddies.” June told them then giggled. “Though the ladies are set for a heavy blow now, thanks to Josie.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Gardy asked her.

“She took us the perfect place to shop for equestrian wear. All of us are now set for temps down to fifteen degrees. Though it won’t matter if the guys don’t get their act together.” Carrie giggled.

“I hate to say this Carrie, but unless the temps fall below ten degrees we’ll still be patrolling.” Sargeant Gardy told the gathered officers.

“What happened to the twenty and below cut off Sarge?” Thomason asked him sharply.

“That’s the reason I called for this little powwow. I’ve got good news and bad news. It’s the reason the Skipper isn’t with us tonight he’s meeting with the Department’s Compu-toller to arrange for the disbursement of a million dollar grant for the preservation of historical patrol units. That’s the good news, now for the bad news. When that happens we’ll be getting those fourteen new officers and horses we’ve been needing to bring us up to full strength. Which means everyone here with the exception of Cartwright will be acting as training officers.” Gardy said.

“No offence Sarge, but Cartwright is more than ready to act as a training officer.” Sally told him.

“I agree with Sally, Sarge. She can out ride everybody here.” Carrie told him.

“I heard that the Skipper had a hard time keeping up with her during that ten-eighty-nine call.” Jane told them with a grin before asking. “How did that call turn out Josie?”

“It was some kids gym bag. I don’t blame the shop owner for calling in a possible bomb threat. When I first saw the bag I thought it was a bomb myself.” Josie answered honestly.

“Ever since that mess in Boston last month the number of bomb calls has reached a new high. Don’t be surprised to answer at least one a week until things calm back down to normal. It happens every time someone actually does detonate a bomb. I was a rookie during nine-eleven. We must have answered over two-hundred calls for suspicious packages over the next six months.” Gardy told them as the waitress arrived with four large pizzas and four pitchers of beer. “Though back then we were more worried about Anthrax than bombs.”

“I know this is going to sound stupid but how often do we answer calls outside of our normal patrol areas?” Josie asked as she grabbed two slices of pizza.

“A lot more than we like Cartwright. You can expect to answer at least two to three calls per shift outside of the parks. If you’re working the downtown area you can expect to answer a shit load of civil complaints. Most of our calls are for nuisance crimes. Though you’ll want to be on your guard for the one-oh-three calls. Those normally happen around the local sports bars. Especially on Sundays when the Ravens are playing out of town. I won’t even bother but I’ll warn you anyway. If the Orioles are playing and there is a bar anywhere near your beat. Expect at least four to five one-oh-three calls. No matter what you do, don’t respond without backup. As much as I hate to say this about our fellow citizens. They get stupid when it comes to sports and the beer is flowing freely.” Thomason told her bluntly as he grabbed another slice of pizza.

“The only time you really need to worry is during playoff seasons.” June told Josie with a smile that for some reason didn’t quite reach her eyes.

“Why don’t I believe you?” Josie asked with a smirk.

“Because you’re smarter then the average rookie.” Thomason chuckled.

“Cartwright I got a question for you. Carrie and the other ladies told us that you first started riding when you were six. Is that bullshit?” Pete asked out of the blue.

“Nope. I actually started riding at six. By the time I was twelve I was attending Events all through Maryland in the under eighteen age group.” Josie told him honestly.

“When did you start Steeplechase?” Gardy asked her.

“I rode my first steeplechase three months after my fifteenth birthday. Though I really didn’t get into Dressage until I turned sixteen.” Josie told him.

“I got to ask. Is it true you did three tours in the sandbox?” TJ asked Josie to her surprise.

“How did you find that out TJ?” Jill asked at Josie’s stunned look.

“A buddy of mine in personnel filled me in on our newest officer. I got to say guys. We’re in the presence of an honest to God hero. Cartwright has three tours of duty in Afghanistan. Two of which were as convoy guard.” TJ told them.

“Hoah you were assigned to a gun truck. That’s some serious shit. My kid brother was a driver for a gun truck. He told me that route Hotel Alpha Seven in the Baghlan Province was one of the hottest routes in all of Afghanistan. Did you ever work the route?” TJ said.

“Never had the pleasure. Though from what I heard Hotel Alpha was nasty. From what my uncle told me only the gun trucks in Vietnam had a harder time.” Josie said trying to downplay her time in the military. Like many vets Josie didn’t like to talk about her time in country. Thankfully Gardy spotted the signs and put an end to questions along those lines.

“Cartwright I heard a rumor that you own an apartment building over by Johns-Hopkins. You wouldn’t happen to have any vacancies?” Gardy asked her with a grin.

“I own a converted warehouse over in the old warehouse district. I’ve got a three/two on the ground floor, and a studio loft on the eleventh floor that are open. What are you looking for Sargeant?” Josie asked him with a smile of thanks.

“How big is the studio loft?” Gardy asked her.

“Just under nine hundred square feet.” Josie answered honestly. Then grinned. “I usually rent it along with the other nine out to college kids.”

“How close are you to Johns-Hopkins?” Gardy asked her.

“Not close enough to walk if that’s what you’re asking. The MTA runs regular buses every fifteen to twenty minutes. The last bus runs at midnight. The first bus usually runs around six am.” Josie told him as she grabbed a slice of pizza.

“Sounds good. What’s the rent?” Gardy asked her.

“Fifteen-hundred, but that includes utilities. Access to the roof. Trash is handled by dumpster. Most of my tenants are early twenties to mid-thirties. There are no short term rentals. So if she were to move in now she would be expected to stay until next year.” Josie told him.

“How much is your three/two?” Carrie asked her.

“Twenty-five-hundred but that includes all utilities and basic cable. Why are you looking for a place?” Josie asked in confusion. She knew that Carrie was married and lived in one of the better parts of town.

“Not for myself. My little brother is coming home from San Francisco at the end of this month. His enlistment is finally up. Him and his family are going to be needing a place with three bedrooms.” Carrie explained for Josie.

“Let your brother know that I can hold the apartment until the middle of next month, but no longer than that. If he wants me to hold it longer I’ll need first month’s rent and a five-hundred dollar deposit. Both of which are refundable if he finds something else.” Josie told her.

“What about pets?” Carrie asked quickly as she pulled out her phone and began texting.

“Depends on the pet. Cats are fine, but dogs over a hundred pounds require a four hundred dollar deposit. Oh I also forgot. Any exotic pet needs to have the proper paperwork.” Josie told her.

“Talk about being reasonable. You’re not going to make Slum Lord by listening to your tenants like that Josie.” June chuckled as she poured herself another glass of beer.

“I may not get rich but at least I can sleep at night and look myself in the mirror. Besides, if all I care about was money. I could have sold the building off a dozen times and retired to someplace where it doesn’t snow.” Josie told her honestly as she poured herself another beer.

“Don’t drink too much people. We got duty in the morning, and I don’t need another investigation by the rat patrol. It’s bad enough the Skipper has to deal with them over Daniels’s DUI.” Gardy grunted as he watched his officers refill their glasses one last time.

“When can we expect that mess to get straightened out?” TJ asked him.

“His union lawyer got him a deal. Before you ask they’re pulling his badge and suspending him for the next six months without pay. He also has to complete mandatory drug and alcohol rehab plus three months of AA before he gets reinstated. Personally I would have thrown the fucking book at him, and he wouldn’t being getting reinstated. The dumb shit blew a BAC of point one-five. That’s almost twice the damned limit.” June snarled.

“Is this his first offence?” Josie asked her.

“It’s the first time he was busted. He’s had a drinking problem for awhile now.” Gardy answered her then explained. “Daniels lost his wife during a carjacking two years ago.”

“He hit the bottle when the perp only got five years after he flipped on his crew. Didn’t matter the asshole was shanked two years into his sentence during a riot. Not that it did Daniels any good. By the time of the perp’s death he was up to a fifth of whiskey a day. I was his partner for the last two and a half years. I can’t remember a day when he wasn’t hungover.” TJ told her.

“Why didn’t you report him before he got bust for DUI?” Josie asked politely.

“He may have been hungover, but he was never drunk on duty. If he showed up for work and was questionable I would give him a breathalyzer test. He never blew over a point zero two at the start of a shift. Which he could explain away as mouthwash.” Gardy told her honestly.

“Did he ever drink on duty?” Josie asked politely.

“Getting kind of personal with the questions there Cartwright. You some kind of IA rat?” Carrie asked her with questioning eyes.

“No. I just don’t like it when a good cop slips through cracks. My first TO was injured by a drunk drive. By the time he completed his rehab and was cleared for duty he was addicted to pain killers. He ended up having to go through a second rehab for drug addiction.” Josie told her.

“That would be Peter Jackson. Go cop. How’s he doing?” Gardy asked her.

“Seven months clean and back working a beat. Though it was close. I don’t know which is worse anymore. Alcohol or opiates.” Josie said before draining the last of her beer.

“It's hard to choose between them. Among First Responders and us, alcoholism and drug addiction have hit record levels over the past decade.” June told her with a put upon sigh.

“It could be worse June. I remember when the only help most officers got was from the local AA and NA. Things have changed more than you realize. A lot of officers are taking advantage of the mandatory counseling following shootings, or undercover work.” Gardy told her before he checked his watch. “As much as I would love to set here bullshitting with you clowns. The wife and kids are expecting me home. See you all at rollcall.”

With that Sargeant Gardy got up and left the restaurant. The rest of the patrol began to leave shortly thereafter. Josie and the ladies all left as one. After dropping the others off at their cars Josie headed for her apartment. As she drove through the late evening traffic Josie stopped a black and white following her. Not wanting to cause problems she pulled into the parking lot of a Sheetz gas station and parked in front of the door. As she exited her truck Josie pulled out her credentials.

“Evening guys. What can I do for you?” Josie asked the officer as he exited the cruiser.

“We were wondering why you drove through the station parking lot.” The officer said politely.

“I was dropping off the rest of first shift at their cars.” Josie told him with a chuckle as she held out her credentials. “Officer Josie Cartwright. I was just assigned to the Mounted patrol today.”

“Sorry for following you Officer Cartwright. After the bomb scare this afternoon our LT has us checking any suspicious vehicles pulling through our parking lot.” The officer told her as he handed back her credentials. “I’m Jake North, tall, dark, and stupid over there is Harris South.”

“You got to be kidding me. North and South? Really?” Josie asked in disbelief as she put away her credentials.

“No joke, Officer Cartwright. At least we don’t get the Bonanza jokes.” South chuckled.

“Uhga! Please no little Joe comments?” Josie asked the big man.

“It could be worse. We could be asking for just the Facts?” North snarked.

“Oh god. One of my last partners would have shot you for that one.” Josie moaned then chuckled as she realized that North and South knew Joe Friday. “Have you guys heard anything from Joe?”

“He’s doing pretty good. He’s got himself a real hard charger for a rookie. He told us to keep an eye on you if you were on our shift.” South told her. “Welp we need to get back on patrol. You take care Cartwright.”

“You too guys and stay safe out there.” Josie told the men as she turned and headed inside the Sheetz to grab herself a coke. She watched as the cruiser pulled out of the parking lot. As much as she wanted to trust her fellow officers Josie knew she couldn’t trust them all. She knew that a lot of them still saw her a DEI higher and a publicity stunt to get votes for the mayor. Until she proved otherwise too many would look for a reason to drive her out.

Although Josie had recently joined the Mounted Patrol, she was keenly aware that acceptance did not necessarily equate to trust. The unit may have allowed her to become a member, but there remained an undercurrent of skepticism about her position.

After purchasing her coke, Josie made her way back to her truck. Reflecting on the recent traffic stop, she recognized that the justification provided by Officers North and South seemed plausible on the surface. However, Josie couldn't shake the feeling that the stop was unfounded, even if she had no way to prove it. Her vehicle was new to the station, and her action, driving through the parking lot and stopping at several cars to drop off colleagues, could easily be misinterpreted by officers on heightened alert.

For those unfamiliar with her routine or motivations, her conduct could be perceived as questionable, potentially suggesting that she was focusing on police officers for reasons that were not readily apparent. This perception highlighted to Josie the complexities involved in establishing trust and respect among her colleagues. She was aware that some members of the department regarded her primarily as a diversity and inclusion appointment by the mayor and the Department. Her objective now was to demonstrate her capabilities and alter these perceptions.

As she was parking her truck Josie was surprised to see her neighbors pulling into the spot next to hers. Climbing out of her truck she smiled as greeted Mike and Neal. “Hi guys. Got the night off or are you playing hooky?”

“Neither. We got together with a friend and bought the Blue Note.” Neal answered with a grin. “The club is shut down for renovations.”

“Renovations? What happened? I thought the Blue Note was the prefect bar for and after work beer.” Josie said as she grabbed her purchases from the bed of her truck.

“We’re going to turn it into a true piano and cocktails lounge. We plan to open at ten and close at midnight.” Neal told her then asked. “So how was your first day back?”

“Educational to say the least.” Josie told them as she closed her tailgate.

“Mike let’s give her a hand with those bags. I got a feeling our friendly neighborhood cop could use a night cap and a friendly ear.” Neal said as he grabbed one of the shopping bags out of Josie’s hand. “You take care of your equipment bag.”

“Thanks guys.” Josie told them as they headed for the exit. As they walked across the street to their apartment building Josie wondered how she could have survived the last four months without the help of these two men. They had become more than just neighbors to her they had become more like older brothers she always wanted to have.

“Alright Josephina what happened? The other officers give you a ration of shit?” Mike asked her as they entered her apartment.

“Not so much a ration of shit, but more like they don’t trust me. That or they’re treating like an experiment in DEI. Just drop those on the couch guys.” Josie told him as she set her backpack down on the kitchen counter. Opening her refrigerator Josie grabbed three Iron City beers. After opening them she hand one to each of the men.

“You knew that was a good chance of this happening sweetheart. What happened to drive the point home?” Neal asked her kindly.

Josie took a moment to gather her thoughts before speaking. “Maybe I should back up a little bit. Most of the officers in the Mounted unit have accepted me and are taking a wait-and-see attitude. It’s the other officers at the station that are the problem.”

She spoke candidly to Mike and Neal, explaining the situation as honestly as she could. Josie described what had happened after she left the station, recounting the events in detail and sharing the challenges she faced. By the time she finished telling her story, it was clear to both Mike and Neal what the issue was.

“Some of them go out of their way to keep their distance, like I’m contagious or something. Others are polite enough, but you can tell they’re watching every move I make, just waiting to see if I mess up.” Josie continued, her voice more subdued now. “It’s weird being under a microscope when all you want to do is get back to doing your job.”

Neal looked at Josie with genuine concern and offered his advice. “I hate to say it, sweetheart, but the only way you’re going to change their minds is to keep your head down and just do the damned job. Like the old saying goes, actions speak louder than words.” He paused for emphasis, making sure Josie understood the weight of his suggestion.

He continued, “If you have to break the first rule in the military, volunteer for extra shifts or take on the tough assignments. Don’t hesitate to work the problem areas. Let that hardworking, take-no-bull attitude of yours shine through.” Neal’s words were firm but encouraging, reminding Josie that her actions would ultimately speak for her and help her earn the respect she deserved.
Josie nodded slowly, absorbing Neal’s advice while taking a long sip of her beer, the cold bitterness grounding her resolve. She glanced between the two men, grateful for their unwavering support, and managed a small smile. “I guess the only thing I can control is how I handle myself, huh?” she said, her voice steadier now. Mike gave her a reassuring pat on the shoulder, while Neal raised his bottle in a silent toast. The moment settled between them, comfortable and reassuring, a reminder that even when the world felt uncertain, she wasn’t facing it alone.

----tbc----

Sorry for the delay. I was out of town last week for Veterans Day and to attend a special function for my oldest daughter in Baltimore.

Walking the Blue Line.
Every rookie police officer knows the dangers of the job by the second week under their training officer. By the end of their training every rookie understands that there are something they can’t control, and not all crimes will be solved. Though all rookies share the same dream. Their first assignment following training. For 21 year old Officer Joe Cartwright of the Baltimore PD that dream is to be a member of the Mounted Patrol. What he got would lead to a life changing path.

Chapter 7
New horse and partner.
Condo 12 B, Joe’s Place. 6:00 am, 3 weeks later

The sound of the door buzzer drew Josie’s attention. “Whoever this is better be dead or fucking dying.” Josie snarled as she walked over the door and hit the call button. “Yes.”

“It’s me Kelly, Josie. Let me in. I need to talk to you.” Kelly Ramsy called back surprising Josie.

“Okay just a minute.” Josie answered and hit the door release button. After holding the button for account of twelve she released it and headed back to her kitchen counter after unlocking her door. Knowing Kelly would be wanting a cup of coffee Josie headed for the pot. After fixing Kelly’s coffee she set it on the counter and returned to dressing for work. At the knock on her door Josie called. “Come on in the door is open.”

“Morning Josie. Is the coffee on?” Kelly asked as she entered the condo.

“Fixed and waiting for you on the counter, Kelly.” Josie called out from her bedroom as she pulled a turtleneck thermal shirt over her head. “What’s so all fire important that you need to raid my place at oh dark stupid girlfriend?”

“Transfer orders is what’s so all fired important. Did you have to tell your Captain that I know how to ride a damned horse?” Kelly told her as Josie walked out of her bedroom.

“What the Sam Hill are you talking about Kelly? I didn’t even know you knew how to ride.” Josie bitched back as she slipped her feet into her paddock boots.

“If you didn’t tell your Captain about me then who did?” Kelly bitched.

“Damned if I know. Is it anywhere in your records?” Josie asked as she sat down next to Kelly.

“No. It’s something I do on my days off.” Kelly answered honestly.

“Do you use the city stables or the police stable for your horse?” Josie asked her.

“I rent one of the stalls down at the city stables. Why?” Kelly asked as drank her coffee.

“That’s how Captain Mathews found out. He boards his and his wife’s horses at the city stables. He’s been asking the stable hands if there are any officers that use the rental horses every day since we got the grant.” Josie told her honestly.

“Damn it you could have warned me, girlfriend. I liked my old unit. I had the best boot working for me. Now I got to start all over again.” Kelly moaned.

“Don't blame me.” Josie said frankly to her friend. “Ever since we received that grant and a generous donation for horses and their care, the Captain has been trying to recruit every officer who knows how to ride. We’re still short three officers out of our allotted forty, but now we’ve got funding for up to eighty officers. If the Captain doesn’t use this budget, the horse patrol will lose it. In fact, I’m supposed to spend part of it with Sergeant Grady by picking up three new police trucks and three eight-horse trailers.”

Kelly shook her head, trying to wrap her mind around the sudden changes. “Guess I better brush up on all those patrol protocols again.” Kelly muttered, glancing at the coffee in her hands as if it could offer some reassurance.

Josie managed a small smile. “At least you know the horses already. Most of these rookies get nervous just putting on a helmet.” They both shared a brief laugh, the tension easing just a little. “It could have been worse. You could have been sent to one of the cycle patrol units.”

“Thank god for small mercies.” Kelly chuckled then asked. “What’s this about a donation and having to use it or lose it?”

“A few days after Captain Mathews secured approval for a federal grant totaling two million dollars, a lawyer representing a horse breeder and trainer from Western Maryland arrived with news of an additional private donation. This donation amounted to five million dollars, but it came with a condition: the funds could only be used for the mounted division.” Josie told her before taking a sip of her coffee and continuing.

“Meanwhile, the officials at city hall have their own ideas about how to allocate the federal grant money. They want to use the funds to replace aging cruisers, motorcycles, bicycles, and even purchase new boats for the harbor patrol units. However, Captain Mathews worked hard to acquire that grant specifically for the horse unit. Because the grant is federal, the city is required to allocate enough money to bring the mounted division up to full strength first. Any remaining funds can then be spent at the city's discretion.” Josie slowly explained for Kelly.

Kelly took a deep breath, rolling her shoulders as if to shake off the unwelcome weight of new responsibilities. “Well, change is the only constant, right?” she said, trying to muster enthusiasm she didn’t quite feel. Josie nodded in agreement, her expression softening.

“Yeah, and at least this time, I’m riding into change with a good horse under me and a decent partner at my side.” Kelly managed a grateful smile, the two friends lingering for a moment in comfortable silence before the city outside beckoned them back to duty. “You said you have to pick up three new rigs with trailers. Who’s driving the third rig?”

“Lieutenant Sarah Albertson for the second shift.” Josie answered quickly.

“What do you know about her?” Kelly asked politely.

“Not much really. I’ve only met her a few times, but it seems like she has her act together. She was trained by Captain Mathews’ predecessor, she came over from Major Crimes after she was promoted to LT, and everyone says she is one hell of a rider. From what I hear she doesn’t put up with bullshit from her officers. She’s a real by the books officer. Why are you asking?” Josie asked Kelly with a frown.

Kelly hesitated, choosing her words carefully. “Just want to know who I’m riding with. The last time I got paired up with someone brand new, it took weeks before we were on the same page. If she’s solid and knows her stuff, that’s good for all of us.”

Josie nodded, understanding the concern. “Sarah’s not the type to let anyone slack off, so I think you’ll find things run pretty smooth.”

Kelly seemed reassured, nodding quietly as she finished her coffee. With the city waking up outside and the department shifting gears for the start of another busy day, Josie glanced at her watch and motioned toward the door.

“Come on,” she urged, her voice steady but encouraging, “let’s get this day started. With new faces, new rigs, and plenty of changes, it’s up to us to keep things moving.”

Kelly followed, her earlier worries easing into a sense of determination, ready to meet whatever came next as the two officers stepped out of the condo, heading toward the elevator. Once outside they split up each headed for their own car. As she drove to the station Josie knew the Kelly would fit in with the second shift just fine. As it was, Josie knew that her day was going to be filled with a lot of driving.

Downtown District Station House. 7:30 am rollcall.

“Okay people settle and take your seats.” Sergeant Gardy called as he entered the squad room. once everyone had found a seat he got down to business. “Alright people listen up. Today we get to play my favorite game. Pin the tail on the dumbass.”

“What does that mean?” Josie whispered to Sally a little louder then she expected.

“What that means Officer Cartwright is we get to pick up where the third shift left off. We have nine open cases to deal with. Now for those of you who haven’t play pin the tail on the dumbass before this is how the game is played. We have nine suspects still at large that need to be brought in for questioning. Now thanks to budget cuts third shift had to clock out before they could clean up their board. Those dumbasses are now our responsibility.” Sergeant Grady told her then turned his attention the rest of the patrol. “Everyone will be receiving copies of the BOLOs. I want those smucks rounded up and off my board by end of shift people. Am I clear?”

“Loud and clear, Sergeant.” TJ Shear called out for everyone.

“Good everyone can report to your patrol routes except for the mounted patrol. Stay safe out there and watch each other’s backs. Mounted patrol Listen up people for your assignments. Shear, Mitchel, you got Druid Hill. Locklear, Norton you have Television hill today. O’reily and Young are covering Gwynn Falls-Leakin Park with McGregor and Salone be sure to check the back trails for one of our BOLO suspects. Storm, Fitzhue, you got Oceanside and Riverwalk along with Stow and Manning. If the pros are working try to get them to move elsewhere. Rider as this is your first day on patrol with us you’ll be with the Skipper in Herring Run Park. Keys you and Lee can play backup for them. Thomson, Hill, you’ve got Locas Point. Make sure those RVs are out of Fort McHenry visitors parking lot. Martain, Hope you’ve got downtown with McFeeters and Snow. Cartwright you’re with me. That’s all people. Be safe and watch your backs out there.” Gardy said after giving out the assignments.

Josie noticed that the new riders were already trying to get their bearings, exchanging quick glances and shuffling through the stack of BOLOs that had been handed out. Josie gave them a reassuring nod as she gathered her own paperwork, feeling the familiar buzz of anticipation before a long day on the streets. The chatter in the room faded as officers filed out in pairs or alone, boots echoing down the hallways, each one ready to track down their assigned suspects.

Josie squared her shoulders, ready to tackle the unpredictable day ahead with Sergeant Gardy, knowing that with teamwork and determination, they'd have a shot at clearing that board before sundown. Not that she and Gardy would be making any arrests. They had their own mission. As they exited the station they were met by Lieutenant Sarah Albertson.

“Morning Sergeant Gardy, Officer Cartwright.” The Lieutenant greeted them.

“Morning Lieutenant.” They both said answered them.

“Ready to pick up our newest rigs?” Albertson asked them with a smile.

“Yes ma’am. Our we picking them up from the Central motorpol or from the dealership?” Gardy asked with his own smile.

“City motorpol. From there we have to head over to Frederick for the trailers. Then from here were heading over to Hagerstown, Cumberland, and finally Accident.” Albertson told them.

“What are we picking up in Hagerstown, Cumberland, and Accident ma’am?” Josie asked.

“Twenty four new horses. The Captain was able to pick them up at the local four H auctions. They're all certified for patrol work and have solid temperaments, so they'll fit right in with our current herd. The Captain wanted to make sure we had the best possible stock for the upcoming season, and these horses meet all the department's standards. We'll be running basic assessments once we get them settled in, but initial reports from the auctions are promising.” Albertson told her as she looked down at her clipboard.

“That’s a lot of driving ma’am. Can I make a suggestion. Once we’ve picked up the trailers we each take a separate pickup for the horses. That way you can make the pickup in Hagerstown and head back here.” Josie suggested to the Lieutenant.

“I’d love to do that, Cartwright, but I have to sign for each horse.” Albertson told her.

“Damn that sucks ass. Is there any way we could get a fourth driver. So we can send the trucks from Hagerstown and Cumberland back while the last ruck heads for Accident?” Josie asked her.

Albertson considered Josie’s question, tapping her pen thoughtfully against her clipboard. “I’ll see if dispatch can spare someone, but with the parade detail this weekend, we’re running lean on available drivers. If they can free up a reserve officer, we might be able to pull it off. Otherwise, we’ll just have to stick together and make it work.”

With a plan in place Josie and Gardy headed over to the city motorpol. When they arrived they were greeted by the motorpol supervisor. The man smiled like a proud papa as he showed the three brand new F-350 pickups. The big diesel trucks were outfitted with gooseneck trailer hitches in their beds. Gardy took one look at the gooseneck hitches and grunted.

“I am not very familiar with these hitches, Cartwright. I have never operated a trailer equipped with a gooseneck.” Gardy admitted candidly before inquiring. “Are they difficult to drive?”

“Not really Sergeant. In many ways the gooseneck makes it easier to maneuver at tailer. I know that my aunt using a gooseneck setup for all of her horse trailers.” Josie told him as she checked not only the ball but the electrical hookups. She spent the next fifteen minutes going over all three trucks. “The trucks are good to go Sergeant.”

“Now we just need the LT, and we can get rolling.” Gardy told her as he checked his phone. “She should be here in ten minutes. She was able to get Rockford to drive her rig.”

“Who’s she riding with?” Josie asked as she closed the hood on her truck.

“Seeing as you know Western Maryland better than me. She’ll ride with you.” Gardy told her.

“Cool. Do we have a break down on the horses that we’re getting?” Josie asked him.

“The Skipper was able to get ahold of seven Walkers, two Percherons, two Clydesdales, three American Saddlebreds, three Morgans, four Quarter Horses and three Thoroughbreds. All of them are three and half to four year olds.” Gardy told her.

“That’s a lot of horses to train for patrol duty.” Josie pointed out.

“That’s the good thing about the horses we’re picking up today. They’ve already gone through desensitization, basic obedience training, crowd control and patrol training, and obstacle course training. We just need to pair them up with their partners.” Gardy told her.

“Regarding the new recruits, Sergeant, do we have enough officers available to manage training for such a large number?” Josie asked him with real worry.

“I’ll be honest with you Cartwright. We barely have enough to get the job done. As it is you’ll be the only officer that won’t have a trainee. Before you say you can handle the job Cartwright don’t bother. Both the Skipper and I know you can but department regs say you have to have three years on the job before you can act as a TO or be a P-three with two years. You’re barely a patrolman second class.” Sergeant Grady told her bluntly.

“Well there might be a way I can help cut down on the training time Sergeant.” Josie told him.

“How?” Was all Gardy asked.

“I am qualified to train new riders, as I previously assisted my aunt in preparing her Four-H students for Dressage during my youth. I am confident that I can apply the same instructional methods when working with new trainees.” Josie told him with a smile.

“I’ll run it by the Skipper when we get back.” Gardy told her as Lieutenant Albertson walked into the motorpol with another officer. Josie smiled as she recognized the equipment and weapons Sergeant. “Thanks for pitching in Rockford.”

“No biggie Gardy. It gets me out of the cage for the day. Besides this is something that you don’t let a rookie do.” Rockford said with a chuckle.

“Okay people let’s get mounted and rolling. We’re already thirty minutes behind.” The LT told the other three officers as she climbed into the cab of Josie’s truck. A little over twenty minutes later the three trucks were pulling on to I-70 West heading for Hagerstown. As the three trucks worked their way through the morning traffic Albertson asked Josie about herself. “I heard through the grape vine that you’ve been Eventing since you were twelve years old. Did you ever want to try out for the Olympics?”

“I would have loved to ma’am, but I would have had to go through one of the college programs for that and I was never good enough to earn a scholarship.” Josie told her honestly.

“I understand that you are part of the Cartwright family. Did you ever want to be something other than a police officer?” Albertson began, only to be interrupted by Josie.

“Before you proceed, Lieutenant, what do you know about my transition? Can you describe the circumstances surrounding it?” Josie asked pointedly.

“I possess considerably more information than most others, including the Skipper, Cartwright. My understanding is that your transition was due to a technological malfunction regarding a disguise.” Albertson responded candidly.

“Lieutenant, I require clarification on how you discovered this.” Josie demanded.

“It is common knowledge among officers of Lieutenant rank and above, Josie. The fact that you declined medical retirement is particularly notable. Additionally, I suspect you are the anonymous donor who has contributed five million dollars for new horses and equipment. Is my assumption correct?” Albertson inquired.

Josie hesitated for a moment, her expression unreadable. After a brief pause, she nodded. “Yes, Lieutenant, that’s correct. I preferred to keep it anonymous because the unit’s needs matter more than recognition. The well-being and effectiveness of the team have always been my priority.”

“Okay I’ll keep your secret. Though I do have to ask because I’m a vet myself. Were you really part of the raid that took down Iyaad al-Rafiq in Gogra in Ghazni?” Albertson asked politely.

“Yes ma’am. I was the second man through the door.” Josie answered grimly as she thought about the raid that brought down one of the Taliban’s most radical members.

“I heard that raid was a total shit show.” Albertson said kindly.

“That’s putting it mildly. We went in expecting no more than a hand full of fighters. What we got was a company sized unit of diehard terrorists and a backroom full of kids being held hostage. My platoon rolled into Gogra in standard convoy formation. I was in the second HUMVEE to the town. We had just finished clearing the outer streets when all hell broke loose. We were taking fire from the roof tops. The whole village was a fucking kill box. If it hadn’t been for a flight of Uglies I doubt we would have survived.” Josie told her honestly.

“You were what nineteen at time.” Albertson said as they passed the exit for I-695.

“I was eighteen and fresh out of AIT. I went from Leonard Wood to the four-thirty-nineth and Afghanistan. What about you ma’am? How did you heard about the al-Rafiq raid?” Josie asked her with real concern.

“I’m a Reservist was halfway through a three month rotation with the third of eighteen MI in Kabul when the raid went down.” Albertson told her then asked. “Other than family tradition. Why did you become a cop?”

“Believe it or not. It’s all I ever wanted to be. Sure I could have gone to school for anything under the sun, but I just couldn’t see myself as some white collar worker. As it is those two weeks of desk duty drove me nuts.” Josie almost snarled as Albertson chuckled.

“It could have been worse Cartwright. Jack Keller for motor patrol had to do four months of desk duty before the docs signed off on his return to full duty.” Albertson told Josie.

“Four months?! What the hell happened to him?” Josie asked in shock.

“He was working a routine traffic stop when a tow truck clipped him breaking his femur. When he got out of the hospital the docs restricted him to desk duty until his leg healed. Even after he got his cast off they wouldn’t let him back out on patrol until he completed his PT. The docs kept sighting some bullshit workman’s comp clause.” Albertson told Josie.

“They did the same thing with me. Though I had to deal with the shrinks.” Josie grumbled.

“At least you haven’t had to deal with a Psychic review for a shooting. Delco is assigned to a desk until she completes her mandatory review by the Department shrink. Leaving me short an officer.” Albertson told her with a grunt.

“That shooting was five months ago. I thought IA ruled that a clean shoot. What’s the hold up?” Josie asked she pulled around an 18-wheeler.

“The shrink is pushing to have Delco attend mandatory counseling for the next six months. As much as I hate to say this, there is nothing we can do.” Albertson told Josie honestly.

“Why isn’t the union stepping in?” Josie asked.

“The same reason you had to go through four months of rehab and therapy. Not that I’m going to complain about officers seeking help after a shooting. After the shit I saw in Afghanistan. I have my own nightmares, but that was from combat.” Albertson told her.

“I can understand that. I know I dealt with my far share of shit from my time in the Sandbox. I won’t go into what I went through after my uc work.” Josie told her honestly.

“I heard Detective Kelly Ramsy from that mess is joining the unit. Is that true?” Albertson asked.

“Yes ma’am.” Josie answered.

“What can you tell me about her?” Albertson asked her.

“She starts next week. I think she’ll be a good fit, but you know how it is—everyone’s got their own adjustment period.” Josie glanced at Albertson, gauging her reaction. “I’ve worked with Kelly before, and she’s solid under pressure. Just needs a chance to settle in.”

Albertson nodded thoughtfully, her gaze lingering on the windshield as the hum of traffic filled the silence. “We’ll keep an eye out, make sure she gets what she needs from the team,” she said, the lines around her eyes deepening with a mixture of fatigue and resolve. “It’s tough coming into a new unit, especially with everything we’ve been dealing with lately. But if she’s got your backing, Josie, that counts for something.” Albertson shifted in her seat, the tension easing just a bit as they drove on, both knowing that the coming weeks would test not only Kelly’s adaptability but the resilience of the whole department.

“I got a question for you LT. Why are we having to drive clear over to Hagerstown for the trailers? Isn’t there somewhere close?” Josie asked her.

“For two reasons. The dealer we normally get our trailers from would has to order anything over a five-pen trailer. Secondly the nearest dealer that has what we need is in Hagerstown. We actually got lucky that they have the three trailers.” Albertson told her with a soft chuckle.

“How so?” Josie asked.

“Because the next dealer that carries a trailer that size is over in Harrisburg Pennsylvania.” Albertson told her with a chuckle as Josie cringed. Just the thought of driving through the Pa, traffic hauling a 35ft trailer, was enough to give her a headache.

“No thank you LT. You couldn’t pay me enough to deal with that traffic.” Josie moaned.

“It could have been worse.” Albertson smirked.

“How so?” Josie asked dreading the answer.

“We could be heading for the dealership in Fairfax for our trailers.” Albertson snarked.

“Don’t even threaten me with something like.” Josie snarled then joined her as they both laughed. It was a well know fact that the worse area to drive in Maryland was around the Nation’s Capital.

“It’s not a bad as driving through Cincinnati or LA.” Albertson chuckled.

“True but the worse place to drive has to be DC or New York, hands down.” Josie snarked as she slipped into the outside lane going around an 18-wheeler hauling a John Deer combine. “There goes a shit ton of money.”

“More money than I can afford.” Albertson chuckled.

“From what my aunt tells me one of those costs anywhere between three to eight hundred thousand dollars and up. That’s why a lot of the smaller farmers go together and buy just the one combine. Which they share between all the farms.” Josie told her.

“From the sounds of things. You know a lot about farming.” Albertson said.

“I know enough to be dangerous, but I’ve always wanted to be a police officer. The mounted patrol allows me to combine my love of horses with police work.” Josie admitted as she spotted Information sign for the exit ramp for the Fredrick trailer dealership.

“Damn that was a quick trip.” Albertson said as she spotted the sign.

“What can I say traffic is light today. Though going home is going to be another story. Once we get on sixty-eight it’ll be all up and down going through the mountains of west Maryland.” Josie told her as she pulled over for the outside lane.

“True. We’ll also be hauling full trailers.” Albertson told her.

“About the horses we’re picking up today. I know that Star Dancer is due to be retired at the end of the month. Is one of the horses her replacement?” Josie asked as she pulled onto the off ramp.

“Yup. You’ll actually get your pick of the herd.” Albertson told her.

“Is that why you asked for me?” Josie asked her.

“Nope. I needed an officer who can handle a truck with a trailer in heavy highway traffic.” Albertson told her then chuckled. “I know that one of the requirements to be part of the mounted is to know how to handle a truck and trailer, but let’s be honest. Most of us can barely drive in a straight line hauling a trailer. Forget about backing one up.”

“I hope you’re not including the Skipper in that generalization?” Josie asked jokingly.

“Are you kidded me?! I respect the hell out of the Skipper. He’s one of the finest officers I know, but if I could. I would never let him behind the wheel for one of our cruisers, let alone one of our rigs. That man can’t drive worth a shit.” Albertson snarked.

“I’m glade that I’m not the only one who doesn’t trust his driving.” Josie joked.

“Cartwright you got lucky the one time he drove with you as his partner. Don’t let it get out but we have a standing policy when it comes to the Skipper and our rigs. He never drives unless there is no other choice. Whenever he has to pull a patrol we stick him with Thomason. Honestly I was surprised when he let you drive the rig back to the stables.” Albertson told her.

“I took the keys to the rig from him. During the drive over to Herning Run park he scared the shit out me and the horses. It took me close to ten minutes to calm Star Dancer down enough to ride her.” Josie told her as she worked her way into the Fredrick traffic and pulled to a stop at a traffic light. “Okay Lieutenant which way do we go now?”

“Turn right at the light go three blocks then turn left. The dealership should be on the left.” Albertson told her as Josie maneuvered the big truck through traffic.

Josie nodded, her focus narrowing as she eased the truck into the right turn. Navigating the next few blocks, she kept a watchful eye on the cross streets, weaving carefully between midmorning traffic and watching for any sudden stops. The cityscape blurred past her, brick storefronts, a scattering of pedestrians, and the occasional impatient car horn. At the third intersection, she flipped on the turn signal and swung left as Albertson had directed.

“There it is.” Albertson said, pointing ahead. Josie spotted the dealership’s wide lot and slowed, scanning for the entrance.

“Let’s hope they’ve got the trailers ready for us.” She muttered, already plotting her approach as she prepared to pull in. She was slightly surprised to see Gardy and Rockford waiting for them. She expected for them to already be hooking up their trailers. Climbing out of the truck Josie went up to Gardy asking. “What’s the holdup Sergeant?”

“Waiting for you and the Lieutenant. She needs to sign for the trailers before they’ll let us hookup. That’s what the holdup is, smartass.” Gardy grumbled.

“Keep your britches on Sergeant. I’ll be right back.” Albertson snapped as she headed inside.

“So how did you truck handle?” Rockford asked with a grin.

“Like a dream. I’ll know more once we hookup to the trailers.” Josie told him honestly.

“About that. The dealer told me that one of the trailers is bigger than we ordered.” Gardy told her.

“How much bigger?” Josie worriedly asked.

“It’s a twelve horse pen trailer. Of the three rigs we brought only yours has the power to pull something that big.” Grady told her then asked. “If you want I’ll swap rigs with you.”

“How many horses are we picking up in Accident?” Josie asked him. Gardy checked his clipboard before answering her.

“Let’s see. Eight horses in Hagerstown, ten in Cumberland and the rest in Accident.” Gardy told her then asked. “You still up to making the run to Accident?”

“Sure. I think it’s best that I make the Accident pick up. No offence Sergeant but unless you know that area it’s best to stay out of Garret County. The locals don’t take too kindly to outsiders. As far as most of them are concerned Whisp Ski resort and Deep Creek lake are nothing more than nuisances.” Josie told the two men honestly.

“Sound like you know the area pretty well, Cartwright.” Rockford chuckled.

“I have family that lives up that way. If I know who was stabling our new horses I could probably get away with just faxing them the authorization.” Josie told them with a chuckle.

“According to my paperwork. Our horses are being held at the Lazy Moon Stables.” Gardy told as he looked down at his clipboard.

“Damn. Looks like I’m going to be stuck with the Lt. for the rest of the day.” Josie grumbled.

“The owner of the stable a hard ass?” Rockford asked.

“No, worse. He’s a retired Air Force Colonel.” Josie replied, her tone making it clear she found the prospect daunting.

Rockford whistled softly, shaking his head. “Well, good luck with that. I hear those military types run a tight ship. Just remember, you’re not on base, you’re picking up horses, not doing drills.”

Josie managed a faint grin, but her mind was already running through possible scenarios at the Lazy Moon Stables. She took a deep breath, squared her shoulders, and turned to Grady. “Let’s just get loaded up and hit the road. The sooner we get there, the sooner we can figure out what kind of day the Colonel’s got planned for us.”

“Soon as the Lt. gets done signing for the trailers we’ll get moving again. About how long do you think it’ll take us to get Hagerstown?” Gardy asked her.

“About an this time of day about forty minutes with traffic. We should be pulling into Hagerstown a little bit before noon.” Josie told him honestly.

“Where’s a good place to eat?” Rockford asked her.

“I don’t know about you but if we have time. I’m hitting Iron City Subs.” Gardy said quickly.

“You’ll have to forgive me gentlemen, but I wait until I hit Accident. You haven’t lived until you’ve had a Blue Moon Cheese Steak sandwich.” Josie told them with a smile.

“Okay Sergeants, let’s get hooked up to our trailers. Cartwright you got the twelve pen trailer.” Albertson said as she exited the dealership.

“About that ma’am. Me and Cartwright are swapping trucks and trailers. So you need to grab your stuff out of the truck.” Gardy told her.

“Seeing as how I have to sign for all the trailers. I guess I better get my act together.” Albertson said as she grabbed her equipment bag from Josie’s old truck. Once she was out of the way Josie started her truck and pulled it over to the three waiting trailers.

With the help of Sergeant Rockford she was soon backing up under the drop leg of the first 8-pen trailer. After parking Josie climbed out and helped Gardy with backing up to the 12-pen trailer. After Grady parked he hoped out and helped guide Albertson under the last trailer. While he was doing that Josie hooked up the electrical and lowered the drop leg onto Gardy’s ball after closing the tail gate. While she was doing that Rockford hooked up Josie’s trailer. With the trailers taken care of Josie grabbed her equipment bag and transferred to the other truck.

Once everyone was hooked up and ready to roll Albertson gather everyone around Rockford’s truck. “Okay people listen up. I will ride with each of you from here out starting with Rockford. After I sign for the horses I get in the next and we roll on. Whoever is hauling that load of horses takes care of loading. Then heads home. Any questions?”

“Any chance of stopping for lunch before we make the first pickup?” Gardy asked her.

“I don’t see why not. Suggestions?” Albertson said.

“Iron City Subs.” Gardy suggested.

“Five Guys Burgers.” Rockford put in.

“I’m good with whatever you decide on. I can still get my cheese steak for dinner.” Josie smiled.

“Seeing as how it is up to me. We’ll hit Iron City Subs for lunch. Now let’s get rolling. I want to get home sometime tonight.” Albertson said as she picked up her equipment bag.

“If you want to just throw that in my truck ma’am you can.” Josie told her as she opened the rear passenger door of her truck door. Albertson just smiled and tossed her bag in next to Josie’s. With the driving arrangements shorted the three police trucks left the specialty dealership. A little over 30 minutes later they were pulling in the back parking lot Iron City Subs. Josie had to admit that Iron City sub sandwiches were pretty good. Not mention filling and cheap. By the time they were done eating it was going on twelve-thirty. Which meant they needed to get a move on.

Thankfully the stable where they were making their first stop was on Highway 40. It took the three trucks twenty minutes to work their way through Hagerstown and another ten minutes to reach the stables on Highway 40. Instead of driving up to the stables Josie and Gardy parked on the side of the Highway before heading up to the farm to check out the horses. At twenty after one they were once again heading west while Rockford stayed behind to load up his eight horses and head back to Baltimore. While Josie made the drive by herself she enjoyed the solitude.

The road stretched ahead, punctuated only by the gentle hum of tires on asphalt and the rhythmic rattle from the trailer behind. The midday sun peeked through scattered clouds, casting fleeting shadows over fields and roadside farms as Josie kept a steady hand on the wheel. Passing the occasional car or farm truck, she let her mind wander to the task at hand and the horses waiting at the next stop. With each mile, the weight of responsibility felt lighter, replaced by the simple satisfaction of a job well underway. The radio played softly in the background, blending with her thoughts as she navigated the familiar route, anticipation building for the final leg home and the quiet reward of a day’s work nearly complete.

As she drove towards Cumberland Josie thought about the first horses they picked up. The six Walkers, and two Percherons would make a fine addition to the Mounted Patrol’s heard. Even though she saw them before having to leave none of them really tickled her interest. Josie was slightly surprised that they would be collecting the last of the Walkers, two Clydesdales, four Quarter Horses and three Thoroughbreds at their next stop. Josie knew this part of Maryland. She expected there to more Percherons and Clydesdales. Good farm stock work horses. Then again Quarter Horses and three Thoroughbreds were two common breeds good for riding.

She considered the prospect with growing anticipation, wondering whether any of the Morgans or Saddlebreds would stand out as a true partner for her on patrol. The thought of swinging by Sky Warrior Pastures lingered at the back of her mind a place with a reputation for giving wild Mustangs a second chance. Though she doubted their herd would offer the kind of horse she needed for the unit. Regardless, Josie trusted her instincts; she knew when she saw the right horse, something would click, and that moment was just a short drive away.

When they reached Hickman Stables in Cumberland Josie parked down by the road and rode up with Gardy and Albertson to the stables. While Albertson was signing for the horses and handing over the their payment Josie looked over the small herd. Once again she was disappointed that none of the horses clicked with her. With a heavy sigh Josie walked back down the driveway to her truck to wait for Albertson. When the Lt arrived she started the truck and continued her drive west on Highway 40 towards route 219 while Gardy stay to load the ten horses and head back to Baltimore. Albertson took the time to ask Josie her opinion about the horses they’ve picked up so far. Josie took a few moments before answering, thoughtfully recounting the strengths and temperaments she’d observed so far.

“They’re all solid horses, ma’am, well suited for patrol work,” she said, her gaze still fixed on the winding highway ahead. “But none of them feel quite right for me personally. I guess I’m hoping the next stop has one that just stands out a horse with that spark, you know?”

Albertson nodded in understanding, offering a reassuring smile as the countryside rolled by. The quiet camaraderie between them was comfortable, each woman lost in her own thoughts but united by their shared mission. With miles yet to go and another stable ahead, anticipation and a touch of hope lingered in the cabin, blending seamlessly with the steady rhythm of the road. We they finally reached Accident Albertson pointed over at the speed limit signs.

“They don’t give you much warning do they.” She commented about the sudden drop in speed limit from 40 to 25 mph. “I wonder how many speeding tickets get issued through here?”

“Not a lot really ma’am. The few times someone does get a ticket through here it’s usually given by the High Patrol. They’re barracks for this part of Maryland is down in McHenry.” Josie said as she turned onto Accident Bittinger Rd.

“The way you’re driving you must know where you’re going.” Albertson said politely.

“You could say that ma’am. There’s only one stabling farm in Accident, Butterfly Pastures.” Josie chuckled as she turned down Fratz road. “We’ll be there in a few minutes.”

“Thank god. This day has dragged out.” Albertson sighed.

“It could be worse, ma’am. You could be looking at working a full shift when we get back.” Josie snarked only to have Albertson give her a dirty look causing Josie to chuckle.

“You do know that I’m the one who sets the roster?” Albertson snarled.

“I do now Lt. How about to make it up to you. I treat you to the best cheese steak sandwich this side of the Eastern Continental divide?” Josie offered as she slowed down to make the turn for the drive to Butterfly Pastures.

“Deal, but it had better be as good as you say.” Albertson told her.

“Trust me ma’am. They are. The good news is our return trip will go a lot faster. We can take the Interstate all the way back to Baltimore.” Josie told her with a grin as she drove up the drive to the stables. As she drove pass the coral Josie spotted three American Saddlebreds, and three Morgans. “Those must be our horses Lieutenant.”

“I hope so. Those are some fine looking animals.” Albertson told her.

As Josie eased the vehicle to a stop near the barn, the afternoon air was thick with the scent of hay and the distant sounds of horses shifting in their stalls. She stepped out, motioning for Albertson to follow, and together they walked toward the corral, boots crunching on gravel. The horses lifted their heads, ears pricked forward in curiosity, and Josie felt a surge of pride at the sight of the sturdy Saddlebreds and graceful Morgans waiting for them. Albertson paused at the fence, her gaze lingering on the dark bay Morgans, admiring their sleek coats and calm demeanor.

“Let’s see if they live up to their reputation.” Albertson said quietly, her earlier fatigue replaced by a flicker of anticipation. Josie nodded, already picturing the ride ahead and the promise of a quicker return to Baltimore, buoyed by the thought of a well-earned cheese steak sandwich before their journey back to Baltimore. With a shared glance, the two women stepped forward, ready to meet the horses, and the next leg of their mission.

“Afternoon ladies. How can Butterfly Pastures be of service?” An old man asked them.

“Afternoon sir. We’re here to pickup the horses for the Baltimore PD.” Albertson told him.

“Then you’re looking at the right horses. Tom Hickman foreman.” The said introducing himself.

“Lieutenant Sarah Albertson, sir. This is Officer Josephina Cartwright.” Sarah said making introductions before pointing at the six horses. “Care to make the introductions?”

“Well the two bays are Jelly and Bambam. You can tell them apart by the white flash on Jelly. The black is Wave Dancer.” Tom told them only to smile as Josie climbed over the fence. “If I was you little lady. I would take my time around him. Wave Dancer can be temperamental.”

“Is that so big boy? Are you temperamental?” Josie asked as she walked up to the big stallion. Holding our her hand palm up Josie let the horse take the root beer candy from her hand. After taking the candy the big horse butted her softly in the chest. “No you’re not temperamental are you. You’re just picky about your friends.”

“Well I’ll be damned.” Tom chuckled, shaking his head in amusement as he watched Josie and Wave Dancer interact. “Looks like you’ve already made a friend,” he said, tipping his hat back and glancing at Albertson. “That one’s got a good eye for people, he don’t trust just anyone, but if he likes you, he’ll follow you to the ends of the earth.”

Albertson grinned, her earlier reservations fading as she watched Josie scratch behind the stallion’s ears, the horse leaning into her touch with obvious pleasure.

“If the rest of ’em are half as agreeable, we’re in for some good mounts.” Albertson remarked, glancing at the other horses with anticipation. Tom gestured for them to come closer, ready to introduce the remaining horses, the late afternoon sunlight casting long shadows across the corral as the promise of the journey ahead settled over them.

Josie just smiled as Albertson and Tom went over to the three remaining horse. She had her new mount. “You and me are going to get along just fine. Aren’t we big boy?”

The big horse just whinnied and nuzzled her hand for hand for another candy. Josie chuckled patted him on the snout. Wave Dancer snorted softly, nudging Josie’s shoulder as if to confirm their new bond. She laughed, the sound carrying across the quiet pasture, and gently stroked his sleek neck. The horse’s ears swiveled forward, attentive and curious, responding to every movement with an eager trust that felt almost uncanny.

With Wave Dancer won over Josie set about loading the Morgans into the trailer. Starting with the big stallion. It didn’t take Josie long to load them and soon she was loading the three Saddlebreds. With the last of the horses loaded Josie took a few minutes to go through the stables and collect their tack. As she did Josie scouted the horses still in their stalls. She was surprised to see a fairly large number of Mustangs. During one of her trips out to the truck she stopped a stable hand. “Excuse me sir, but are the Mustangs for sell?”

“No ma’am. Come back in a few months we should have some for sell.” The man told her.

“Thank you sir.” Josie said and headed out to the truck. She still had a cheese steak sandwich to eat and a long trip home ahead of her.

-----tbc-----

To all my readers Happy Holidays.