The Letter - Chapter 45

Ellie Kosko.  Think of that.  It was really nice of her to call.  Talking with Ellie had helped me to feel a little bit better.  I now felt more confident this would all get resolved for the best.  At least I know where Jennifer is and that she’s safe.   I’m sure Melissa wouldn’t do anything to hurt her.  And if I don’t hear from him today, I’ll be able to reach Joe McKay tomorrow morning to discuss what we need to do to get Jennifer back.  It’s kind of funny that Ellie was so concerned about the comments on my article.  I opened my computer and went to the Post-Gazette’s website to see for myself.

There were many supportive comments from those who agreed with my arguments.  But Ellie was right.  There were a number of comments insulting me personally for my views and a smattering of comments that included veiled threats.  The newspaper had published my personal email address at the end of the article, so I decided to see of anyone had emailed their comments to me.  Again, there were several supportive emails, most of which came from people I knew from my days as a corporate attorney.  But there were a few emails that were actually a little frightening.  I sent responses to the people I knew and considered whether I should respond to the negative emails.  I decided they were just trying to blow off some steam.  No matter what I might say to them, I wouldn’t be able to persuade them to my position, and I certainly didn’t want to say anything to incite them further.  Ignoring them was the best course of action.

Just then my cell phone rang.  I didn’t recognize the number.  Perhaps it was Joe McKay returning my call.  I answered the phone, hoping that one of the threatening commenters hadn’t somehow gotten my number.

“Hello.  Is this George Leskovic?”

I hesitated.  “Uh, yes.  This is he.  Who is this?”

“Hi, Mr. Leskovic.  This is Tom Brannigan from WTAE TV.  How are you?”

“I’m fine.  What can I do for you?”

“I read your article in the Post-Gazette this morning.  It was very well written.  Gun violence is kind of like the weather.  Everyone talks about it, but nobody ever does anything about it, right?”

I wasn’t sure how to respond.  “Mr. Brannigan, I don’t want to be rude, but what is it that you want?”

“I’m sorry.  I can understand your wariness.  I read the online comments to your article.  If nothing else, the issue you wrote about stirs up a lot of emotions on both sides.  Correct me if I’m wrong, but you were involved in that altercation at the vigil last week weren’t you.”

“I hate to admit it, but yes, that is true.”

“Like it or not, Mr. Leskovic.  Between the film footage last week and your article in today’s paper, you have become the spokesperson for those in our area that would like to see some type of controls on guns.”

“Mr. Brannigan, obviously you know that over 90% of Americans believe there should be some controls, such as background checks.  And yet, Congress refuses to do anything.”

“Well, a movement has to begin somewhere, Mr. Leskovic.  That’s where you come in, if you’re willing.  I would like to interview you – to give you a soapbox, if you will, to try to energize that ninety percent to actually get something done.  Would you be available to come to our studio tomorrow, let’s say, around 2:00 PM?  That will give us enough time to get it ready to air on the six o’clock news – and at eleven.”

I thought about Jennifer and what I might need to do tomorrow to try to get her back.  “I think that would be all right, Mr. Brannigan.  Actually, I am in the middle of a custody fight with my ex-wife and that could affect my availability.  Perhaps I could call you tomorrow once I have a better idea how that is going to affect my schedule.”

“I’m sorry to hear that.  I hope you can get it resolved quickly.  Sure, if you aren’t available tomorrow, we can reschedule.  But it’s a hot story now, and I’d like to strike while the iron’s hot if you know what I mean.”

“Sure, I understand.  Look, if you don’t hear from me, I’ll be there at 2:00 PM.  What’s the best way to contact you?”

“Let me give you my cell phone number.  You can use it to reach me 24/7.”

I wrote down his number.  “Okay, Mr. Brannigan.  I’ll see you tomorrow.  Should I wear a suit or something?”

“Business casual is fine.  We’ll be behind a desk, so as far as I’m concerned, pants are optional.”

I smiled at the phone.  “Thanks.  I’ll see you tomorrow.”  I hung up.  Wow.  What have I gotten myself into?