Ace continued to stand over him, not intimidating but protective, said, “You’ve obviously traveled a long way for something. You claim it’s important. No doubt involving Johnny’s NYPD past.”
The mention of the NYPD stirred Jonathan Tolliver from his quiet stupor. Suddenly he perked up. He eased the reclining function, sitting up straight and looking directly at Jimmy. His eyes looked like they were trying to reach back into his memory banks. Jimmy said nothing. Gave the man a chance to work things out. From what he knew about ALS patients, it was the body that failed; the mind remained as sharp as ever. A cruel disease.
“I know you,” he finally said.
“My name is…”
“McSwain, that much I know. I see Joey in you.”
That comment struck Jimmy in the heart, and he fought hard to control his
