Jessica and her father waited patiently for Jarrod's arrival before he would share what he found out in Denver.
Ben asked, "Where did Jarrod go?"
Jessica shrugged her shoulders, "He didn't say. Just that he had to run some errands."
"Oh." Ben sipped his drink as he looked at his daughter. "How was he after the vote?'
Jessica snorted as she folded her arms , "Hmph. He was as cranky as ever."
"He's under a lot of pressure dear. I couldn't image what he's been going through all this time." He looked at his daughter and winked, "But I do believe there's a silver lining to all of this."
Jessica blushed and said, "I certainly hope so."
Ben laughed, "Dear it's quite obvious how he feels about you and you about him. I have watched him and his eyes never leave you when you are in the room and the same goes for you." Ben arched his eyebrow at his daughter.
Before Jessica could respond Jarrod showed up.
"Sorry I'm late." Jarrod kissed Jessica gently on the lips and shook Ben's hand. "Did I miss anything?" Jarrod questioned as he sat next to Jessica.
Ben smirked, "Nothing that you already don't know."
Jessica frowned at her father and blushed again which Jarrod noticed and asked, "Do I even want to know?" Jarrod laughed.
Jessica answered, "No."
Ben cleared his throat and started, "Jessie tells me you have a meeting tomorrow night?" Jarrod shook his head. "That's good." Ben got up to fix a drink and sat back down looking at his daughter and Jarrod and made the realization he was going to be a father-in-law sooner than later which brought a smile to his face.
Jessica asked, "What on earth are you smiling at father?"
Ben chuckled, "Private joke I just recalled." Ben took a sip of his drink before continuing. "Now Jarrod you said you were in San Francisco when this happened correct?" Jarrod nodded his head yes. "That's what I thought. Do you recall if anything was mentioned about another possible eyewitness?"
Jarrod thought a moment and said, "No, I don't recall anything about that. Why? Was there another witness we didn't know about?"
Ben smiled as he answered, "Yes and I have my detectives looking for him right now. Apparently after he found out what his friend had been threatened with he left town and hasn't been heard of since. But I have all of his information so hopefully we'll be able to find him."
Jarrod asked, "But will he talk if you can find him?"
Ben smiled, "Yes. I'll assure the young man if he comes forward he'll be protected."
Jarrod sighed and said, "I don't know how I could ever thank you Ben for everything you have done for me."
"I haven't done anything yet Jarrod. This is still a jigsaw puzzle we are trying to put together but more pieces are fitting. I would like to see the file you have at your office in Stockton."
"That will not be a problem since we're going to Stockton this weekend for my niece's first birthday party."
Ben asked, "We?"
Jarrod smiled, "Yes I received an invitation today and I have already informed my mother I'll be bringing two guests with me." Jarrod looked at Jessica who smiled widely. "I've already booked three rooms at the Cattleman's Hotel."
Ben replied, "I like the idea of staying in town so we'll be able to go to your office without anyone knowing and we won't be rushed in looking through the files."
Jessica added, "And between the three of us it shouldn't take that long."
Jarrod turned to Jessica, "The three of us?"
Jessica smirked, "Yes, the three of us."
Ben chuckled, "I like that idea. Besides it's not like we are breaking and entering since it's still is your law office Jarrod."
Jessica added, "Well that settles it father. You are going to Stockton for a birthday party."
Ben added, "Guess I could use a few days off. However in the meantime I am hungry. Do you have anything to cook in your kitchen Jess?"
Jessica suggested, "I would rather go out."
Ben smiled, "Sounds good to me."
Jarrod added, "Dinner ONLY for me tonight." Ben and Jessica laughed at Jarrod.
