Chapter 17: Defense Ready

Candice made her way up to the main house at Josef's curious about his call. He'd requested she come by stating very seriously that he had a case for her. She'd kept up with all her duties as his lawyer and had reviewed all the open contracts to make sure nothing had been overlooked but everything was up to date. She was told to come right in and met him in his home office when she arrived.

Making her way to the office door she paused and knocked softly to announce herself. She had no intention of disturbing him when he was having a meal, it made him cranky. "Come in Candice."

She made her way inside and went straight to his desk, "What do you need my legal expertise with today?"

Josef motioned for her to sit down, "What do you know about the current situation here?"

Candice looked at him confused, "What do you mean?"

"David hasn't told you about the woman staying in the guest house?"

"He mentioned having to arrange extra security but didn't go into details. We don't spend a ton of time talking shop."

Josef lips turned up into a grin, "I see. Well one of the women Jean was working with at the clinic had an incident. She's been staying here while the police investigate."

Realization dawned, "This is the woman Mick and Beth are working to help. I was with Beth when they got the call."

Josef nodded, "She was in an abusive relationship. She woke up in a hotel room covered in blood, her husbands blood to be precise. The police are calling it a murder even without a body due to the amount of blood. The thing is Grace can't remember anything. The police haven't charged her with anything at this time but I want you to start working on her defense just to be on the safe side."

Candice shook her head, "Of course. Is she here?"

"She's in the guest house. I told her to expect a visitor."

Knowing this was important Candice stood up and headed for the door. She made her way quickly to the guest house and said hello to the guard who was one she was familiar with. He knocked for her and told Grace she had a visitor. Grace ushered Candice inside and towards the living room offering her a drink before joining her.

"I'm sorry to intrude I understand this is a difficult time for you," Candice started easing into things.

Grace sipped her soda, "Not at all I'll talk to anyone they need me to but who are you exactly? Mr. Kostan just told me to expect someone...he's been so nice to me but I have to admit when Jean isn't around he sorta gives me this…uneasy feeling."

Giving a little laugh Candice reached into her bag and pulled out a tablet and pen, "I'm Candice Cabrea and I'm their main attorney."

"Oh," Grace looked nervous. "I'm so grateful for all they have done."

Shaking her head Candice laughed, "Don't worry about it Josef has that effect of people. Given his profession he's supposed to intimidate business associates and sometimes he forgets to turn it off."

Grace relaxed some, "That's understandable. I think I just…I'd only ever saw him with Jean and the way he looks at her…well it was different seeing him today."

"I understand," Candice took in the healing cut on Graces forehead and made a note. "So if you could walk me through what happened I'd appreciate it."

"I don't mind but…why do I need to talk with an attorney? Am I…in trouble?"

"Not yet but Josef likes to be prepared for anything."

Agreeing Grace told Candice everything she could which wasn't much. After she had everything she could get from her Candice let herself out and made her way back to speak to Josef.

"I have everything I need from her right now I'm going to talk with Mick and Beth and see what they have. They're working with the investigation so I can get the information without filing a motion of discovery. I'll keep my work under the radar for now."

"That you my dear," he nodded.

"Just a heads up though, you might want to limit your time around her. I'm no expert but she's been in an abusive relationship with an intimidating man and you…you are intimidating."

"What?" Josef looked up shocked. "I've done nothing …I'm nothing like that bastard of a husband she had."

"I know Josef but you are an imposing man. You exude power. We know you are really a softy at heart and she doesn't think you'll hurt her but your presence alone sorta sets her nerves on edge."

Taking in what she said Josef agreed, "I'll keep my distance."

"Just remember to be calm, maybe think about Jean or even Kayla before speaking to her. They always bring out your soft side."

Josef raised his eyebrow at her, "This stays—"

"In our family I know," she smirked. "I'll keep your appraised of the situation."

Candice let herself out and dialed Beth as she headed for her car. Beth's phone went to voicemail and she left one saying she was on her way to the office to try and catch her.

To Be Continued…

Evilous