Chapter 6
“Call for you, Pooch.”
At least the constable spoke with a mild grin. Bobby had heard more mutt jokes than he could count; such jokes quips would ‘dog’ him throughout his life. There was the option of changing his name, but his animal couldn’t help being amused.
“Yes?” He spoke into the receiver.
“Sergeant Pooch?”
“Speaking.”
“Thought so. Bobby, it’s Gordon.”
“Gordon Atkins?”
“The same.” The pleasure in his old sarge’s voice drifted down the line. “So, no longer a constable?”
“No. It’s three stripes now.” Bobby almost reached up to finger the three down-pointed chevrons on his epaulettes.
“Well, it’s no surprise you’ve moved up a rank.” At once, Gordon’s tone changed, becoming formal. “I’d shoot the breeze, but I’ve a spot of bad news for you.”
Bobby listened without s
