The One Day Story

Inspector Krasniqi folded his newspaper and throw it on the table in front of him. He did not find anything new inside. He turned back to his first, morning, macchiato. Quick glance on wristwatch told him that he had half hour before the work. He drunk rest of his coffee and glass of mineral water and waved to kid, who watched Good morning Kosovo on the TV, to come. Kid jumped and in three big steps was in front of him. Inspector pulls out one euro from pocket of his jacket and asked about his boss. Poor little fellow was still in the hospital. His heart did not hold his youngest son car accident. Now, he and his son are in hospital and both in coma. He told to the kid to convey owners wife his regrets about tragedy and that he wish her son and husband to become well and healthy and then he left the coffee shop. Outside was beginning of another Pristinas spring Sunday. Yesterdays rain washed streets and cleaned air. Sky was dark blue with tear to pieces white, little clouds. Almost look like cotton balls candy his father bought him when he was a young. He grabbed the keys of his fifteen years old Volkswagen Golf and chased away memories of his father. His partner will be very pissed off if he was late today. Today is the big day for her. Her promotion! He smiled and turns the engine on. She will be so damn important today. He can missed that!
*

Inspector Linda |Demiri was checking impatiently golden buttons on her dark blue official KPS uniform. Impatient was all over her. Shit! Do I look all right? I am not looking fat, do I? You can tell me. O Lord, I am so nervous., she said turning herself to Artan. You look O.K. I told you at least hundred times today. Just calm down., said inspector Krasniqi watching his partner and smiling, I can ensure you that everything will be perfect , Lieutenant. Even I am not drunk and O, shut up, please!, she cried and took deep breath. So, your folks coming on the ceremony?, asked Artan and lined back in his chair. Her face expression changed and became tighter up. Yes. I think so., she said trough her teeth. You are bad liar, Linda. You father is not coming, isnt? He supposed to stay at home. Something important., she said pretending cleaning hat and trying to avoid his view, I do not want ask to much questions. Sure., Artan said slowly, He is still mad because you joined police. An unsuitable job for a woman. He is really Albanian dad. Women are in kitchen and men are everywhere else. Artan shrugged and stud up. Well, this little incident will not change our big day, Lieutenant. Lets go to pick up the stars. You deserved them.
*

Ceremony was short. Chief made impressive speech about women in service. Linda was almost past out from excitement and her father wasnt there. Only her brothers and mother. Artan greeted them and told them how Linda is excellent policewoman and good partner. Brothers were not so excited with their sisters daily duties but he noticed how mother inspecting him from top to the bottom and that he, probably, passed her exam. His impression is that she thought about him like good sonin-law, definitely. He tried somehow to escape further conversation which Lindas mother in that direction and her

brothers carefully watching and listening. He switched look to Linda for help but she was in Chief s and his secretary Mirvets grip watching him with helpless look. Then he noticed one of his uniformed police officers, waiving him. He excused himself and almost run toward him. Sergeant Naim! It is so nice to see you. You are my savior for today. , cried Inspector slapping him on shoulder. Naim looked back with his reindeer-under -spotlight look. He was very confused and that was his almost normal state of mind. Never mind. So, whats up?, said inspector changing the voice and regretting what he said second before, Why you need me? We have suicide case, sir., said Naim still puzzled with inspector latest behavior. Some teacher hanged himself in the school., he continued. Are you kidding me? Hanged him self in the school? Pretty odd. I will be down by the vehicle in the minute. Wait for me. Naim saluted and left immediately. Inspector turned his view to Linda asking himself whether to call her or to take this case alone. He meets her begging look again and realized that she will definitely kill him if he doesnt call her. He cleared his throat and approached little bunch.
*

That is so wrong. Unfortunately event! Professor Mustafi was good and devoted man. I do not know what happened to him. My God! Little, bold, chubby man in the fifties was walking next to him panting. His gray suit was creased. Upper button of his not so white shirt was unbuttoned. Sweat was rolling down his face and neck. Inspector Krasniqi wasnt sure if he was sweating because of situation with a dead professor in his school or because of woman in shine, police uniform he couldnt take his eyes. He smiled watching Linda under his eye. She was pretending not to notice Principals staring. He realized that she was very pissed off because of the uniform and because of this, little, annoying man. Lott of fun! He will be remembering this day for long, long, time. Do you have any knowledge that professor had problems? Something that will have reflect on his everyday work with kids and relationship with colleges? Some disputes with his colleagues?, Artan asked questions just trying to turn principals attention from Linda. On the end of the long corridor he noticed people from Forensic and Crime Unit. All these school buildings from time of socialism look like each other, he was thinking in himself for the moment. Long, tall corridors painted in green or light blue greasy paint with dead plants in the flowerpots near to the wall and pictures of the dead revolutionaries and enlighteners above them. O, no, no! I can ensure you that he was very quiet, hard working man. He wasnt married, unfortunately, but he said that studies took lot of his time and energy so he decided to stay with his ill mother and that he will see later. Poor one., said Principal interrupting him in his thinking and stopped in front of the room. One of technicians went out taking big metal case and nodded to inspectors. Linda and Artan nodded back. Thank you, Mr. Ibushi. It will be nice for you to wait for us in your office with all your staff. Call them all. We will be there in a half hour-forty-five minutes., said Artan and put hand on Principals shoulder guiding him out of crime scene until he was trying to see what was going on in the room.

Good, good No problem..., answered man still standing , watching curiously and ignoring him. Inspector shrugged and stepped into the room, closing door behind Linda and leaving curious Mr. Ibushi outside in the corridor.
*

I hate this uniform and that little, stupid Principal. Prick! You see how he was staring at me. It is like he never saw a policewoman. Stupid idiot! Linda was furious. Room they entranced was full of forensic people and crime technicians. Artan put forefinger in front of his mouth. Calm down Lieutenant. He only thinks that you are gorgeous, sexy. Definitely, tonight will be his night. His wife will be surprised, trust me., whispered Artan and start putting his rubber gloves on. O, shut up., hissed back Linda. One man in white jumpsuit was walking toward him. Inspector recognized one of the chief pathologists, Dr. Zekas deputy. It was one and only. Dr. Bislimi. Inspector., he said with cold voice. Doctor., answered Inspector same way. Linda watched curiously two men. Doctor turned his head to Linda and nodded for greeting. Linda smiled and offers her hand for handshaking. Sorry. My partner is so inconsiderate. Inspector Linda started Linda but her hand was left hanging in the air. Expression on the Doctors face didnt changed. I was waiting for you, Inspector and I do not have all day to spend here., he said ignoring Linda, I need to Inspector didnt answered or even listen to him. He was carefully watching the body of unfortunate teacher; a tall, skinny man with thick, messy, black hair, unnaturally leaned on the radiator with his neck broken. His eyes and mouth were closed. Pretty unusual fact for somebody who just hang himself. He was in cheep grey suit and black, long-sleeved shirt. One of the brown, moccasin shoes was slipped from the foot dressed in white sport sock and was almost one meter from the victim. Another unusual thing. Grey was definitely latest school employee fashion, thought Artanr until he was squatting down near to the victim. He tried to said something to Linda but he noticed that she went to talk to uniformed police officer and janitor who found the body so he continued carefully studying body in front of him. Long, black belt, maybe from his pants because his shirt was pulled out and there was not belt on the pants, was around his neck very tightly. Obviously, implicated Artan, he made slipknot with a buckle and belt and he tight up very strongly other end of the belt to the central heating pipe. Then he climbed on the radiator, jumped down and broke his neck. What a dead if it is real way he died? Inspector stud up and slowly moved front victims head. There was not so much coagulated blood on the radiator and on the teachers hair and neck. Artan assumed that he hit the radiator after he jumped but lack of blood forced him to think that is much better to wait forensic laboratory report . He pulled out from victims inside pocket a wallet. He whistled. Contents were totally surprise for him. He waved Linda to cam.

Inside were five of one- hundred euro bills and two of twenty euro bills, piece of paper with Pristinas PTK phone number and brand new package of Durex extra soft condoms. Well, one is sure. Our professor preferred cash over plastic., said Artan waiting Lindas reaction. Yeah, that is true. And safe sex., she said watching the condoms. He wasnt so nave like his chief want to convince us. By the way, no suicide notices and janitor didnt saw and heard anything unusual. No? Well, definitely, we know one fact that he was for safe sex and against the AIDS and teenage pregnancy., said Artan and ask one uniformed police officer for plastic zip bag, I am thinking that we finished here for today. Lets our noble doctor Bislimi and his crew to finished work what they was paid for and we go to talk with horny Principal and his crew before they runaway all over the town. Sure. What else to do? Lets go., Linda smiled and turned to the door. Artan put the wallet in the plastic evidence bag and handled to one of the crime technicians. He followed Linda without saying hello to Dr. Bislimi who was pretending that he did not saw they leaving.
*

Meeting with the Principal and some of his bunch was fruitless. Linda and Artan were trying to get some more information about professors private and professional life but nobody knows anything. Female professors were, some with interest and some with disgusting, watching Linda and making her more nervous and pissed off. Principle stare was one pain plus. But, they didnt know any of the late professor good or bad habit. It was custom Everything best about dead and they stuck to that custom. Artan decided to finish for today and go back to the 7th Precinct for coffee and some food. Also, he realized that he need to move his partner out of this environment if he dont want investigate case of massacre because Linda was ready commit one. She did not say anything on way back. Artan told sergeant Naim to bring him results from forensic as soon as they came. Also to see what is going on with his Kia Sorento SUV and are mechanics fixed transmission. He explained him that he need vehicle for today afternoon because of case. He was hoping that he understood his demand but you never know Naim.
*

O my good. At last!, said Linda and put her shine uniform in the closet. She was very happy be back in her black turtleneck sweater and old faded jeans. She put out her pistol holster on the desk and checked her Glock 17. I am hungry. Do you want pizza? I am buying., said Linda watching carefully her gun. Sure, answered Artan dialing phone number he find in professors wallet. What are you doing?, asked Linda again putting pistol in the safe .Who you calling? Artan raised his head from phone. Phone number from professor wallet. One second. Deep male voice answered call. Tip-Top. Yes. I want to order pizza. Two Margaritas and one Capricciosa and said Artan smiling on Linda. Deep male voice interrupts him.

Sorry, man. It is wrong place and wrong number. Artan noticed that guy on the other side of the line became suspicious. How you get this number? Oh, those stupid bitch on the PTK information. She gave me wrong number. I am so sorry man. What kind of place it is, you said? I did not. The line went dead. Well. Our professor definitely had interesting life., he said to Linda putting phone receiver back, Ever heard about place called Tip-Top? O yes. It was a night bar behind Pristinas stadium. I was there once when I worked on patrol. We had raid and we collect about ten ladies of the night from Moldavia and Ukraine. It was that kind of place. I didnt know that this shithole still working? It is look like that place operating on some way. According to dudes reaction from other side of the line, this number is probably not in the city phone book. He was very, how can I say, surprised. Great.! Lets eat some pizza and then call Naim and fine out is our vehicle ready. We need to visit victims mother today and than his favorite pick-up bar. Maybe I will find something for me. You wish. There is not such thing like girl for you even you need to pay for her. I dont think so. Ask your mother. She thinks that we can somehowyou know. What my mother said?, Linda interrupted him surprised, What she said? Tell me! OK,OK. I will tell you but you need to lock your pistol and order and pay pizza. After I am ensure myself that I will survive in any case, I will tell you. Its a deal? Linda thought couple of seconds then nodded and dialed pizza-delivering service. Better be good. I want to know what she said to you. Exactly. Word to word. You will be surprised how high opinion you mother have about me. And how great expectations she has. You will be amazed, trust me, said Artan leaned back in his chair. I doubt., answered Linda and ordering two Cappriciozas pizza and Fanta exotic.
*

Big surprise was waiting for them on the police parking lot. Instead of dark blue Kia Sorrento there was Naim with white Skoda Favorit station wagon. Whats happened sergeant , asked Artan approaching policeman. Your vehicle isnt fixed yet, sir. They gave me this for substitute until yours car will be ready. They told me that was serious problem with transmission and that vehicle will be ready in two, maybe three days. Please, sir, sign here., said Naim giving to the Inspector paper sheets and keys. Artan shrugged and signed document without asking to much questions. They where in hurry and Naim were not person for easy understanding. They jumped and started engine. He throw glance on his wristwatch. It was four afternoons. This will be long day. Linda didnt say a word after he told her what her mother have on her mind about her destiny. She look pretty scared.
* Inspector Krasniqi parked Skoda on the parking place near Pristinas University library. That was closest way to the professors apartment. Artan knew where lived when he wrote address in his notebook- old, brownish building not far away from Library. Apartment was on first floor. He ringed doorbell on the door

painted in dirty yellow color and with marker written last name on them- Mustafi. There was chair with flowers in the, on the half cut, plastic mineral water bottle near to the door. A short, older woman with white scarf on her head opened the door. Expression on her face exposed tiredness and seriousness. Somebody already told family bad news, thought Artan and pulled out his police badge for identification. Linda done same. Inspector Krasniqi and Inspector Demiri, KPS. Sorry we interrupt you maam in this sad moment but we will like to have talk with Mrs Mustafi. Are you Mrs. Mustafi?, said Artan. I am her sister. She was tired and she is resting now., said woman quietly and waved with hand showing them to come in, Come inside! I will wake her up. Inside was meaning small kitchen with big white stove on wood, small table , for wooden chairs and kitchen elements on the wall. Everything was very clear and neat. Two other women, one older and one young, both with white scarf on they heads, were sitting there and watching with interest what is going on. This is our younger sister and this is my daughter. We came to help when we heard whats happened. My poor sister has also two sons in Macedonia and two in Germany and they will be here tomorrow. She did not have female children and her husband passed away five years ago. She is now alone., said small woman slowly choosing the words. Artan and Linda didnt said anything. Woman nodded with her head and murmured something for herself. Artan was sure that she mentioned god. Then she turned to her daughter, and her voice became harsh, unpleasant. They are police, Makfire. Make him tee till we wake up Sanije. They want to talk with her about Abaz. She turned back and, without word left the room. Other woman followed her silently. Artan bend on and whispered to Lindas ear that will be much better she to ask questions. Linda nodded. Young woman silently make him tee, put in front of them and sat in her corner. She was avoiding to look in they direction. Especially in Artans. Artan put two fool spoons of sugar in the glass and started stirring. He closed his eyes and gulped first sip of Russian tea after long time. Familiar taste overflowed his palate which was dulled drinking macchiato and espressos. Again, some memories from his childhood emerged out bringing pictures of his family, father, kitchen like this one...He opened his eyes aware that somebody is looking at him. His partner and girl from corner were watching him with interest. He smiled. Girl in corner blushed and looked down in the floor. It is excellent tee. I didnt drink such good tee for a long time. Artan raised glass. Real good. Girl smiled but still watching the floor in front of her. Thank you. Her voice was soft and calm. So, do you know very well deceased? I mean, it was your first cousin., continued Artan. She cleared her throat. I didnt know him very well. He was older than us and he did not like to visit us very much. Artan did not realized what she said in beginning. He was thwarted by her proportional face lines and long, aristocrat fingers she crashed. Lindas voice wake him up. What are you mean he didnt like to visit you. Where are you come from? Girl was disrupted with Lindas harsh voice. Her shoulders tighten up little but she did not changed sound her voice. We are from Drenica, village of Kijevo. A-a! OK. Well, it is pretty far from Prishtina. You cant blamed him for that., said Linda gesticulating to Artan who send her very unfriendly look. He was prepared to ask another question to calm down situation but the sisters come back. Girl quickly started fixing her scarf and wardrobe. Her mother throw brief glance trying found out what is going on here but voice of tall, skinny woman with washed face and big, light blue eyes they hold under her armpits stopped her to ask questions. She introduced her self and slowly sat on one of the chairs. It was noticeable that her sons devastated tragically dead has had large impact on her life. Questioning was slow. She was talking with great pain and distress. Slowly, very slowly and quietly. Artan and Linda realized that Mrs. Musliu and her late son had deep mother and son relationship because he decided to stay with her after his fathers dead and, that he was dedicated and devoted son. He did not have luck with female and it will be nice if he found some good woman to take care of him but today girls are not like before, in her time, and that her son did not had real friends, just some colleges from work. No debts , no hobbies that she was aware of , just a work and taking care of her and home. She remembered that he left earlier to school this morning, about seven o clock, and that he said to her that he will be late because he was on duty. She was not surprised why he need to go on Sunday because it was not for the first time. She started breathing heavily and crying in one moment. Linda realized that talks are finished. Nothing more today they will be possible to find out about her son.She thanks her, expressed one more time condolences and ask for permission to see her sons room. Woman shrugged and agree asking her older sister to show him the room because she was feeling tired. Older sister stood up took them to the small, simple single- man room on the end of the corridor. Behind them younger sister and the girl took victims mother to her room. Artan caught girls glance. She was watching him and than bashfully smiled

and turned head back. Older sister opened rooms door. Inside was couch, couple of bookshelves with mostly history literature, one big, old wardrobe, table, chair, and only luxury, brand new Samsung TV with DVD player on the commode with two bootleg movies- Transporter 1 and 2 . Artan opened top drawer. Inside were neatly folded underwear, pants and sleeveless t-shirt, and one black, cheap Chinese made CD holder. He took him out and opened zipper. Inside was about twenty compact discs with no title, just numbers on them written with red marker. A woman on the door was watching him carefully. Do you know what is on this CD?, ask Artan. Linda stopped checking the closet and turned to him curiosly. No. I do not have idea. His mother told me that he like to watch movies all night and that this was his only bad habit., said older sister, She went back in her room. Do you want me to ask her. No, no! It is OK. Can we take this for checking? We will bring that back in few days., sad Artan closing zipper on the folder and looking the woman cautiously . I think so. I do not think that he will need them anymore and certainly, his mothers dont watch the movies. She doesnt know how to used this new video he bought. Thank you, said Artan and turned to Linda, Are you finished? Yes. I think we are ready to go., said Linda and closed the wardrobe. She was studying them with her tired eyes. This is big disgrace for our family., said woman holding the door half open, We did not except such thing from Abaz, god bless his soul. His poor mother is broken now and I do not know how will she survive the day. This was so stupid from him. What kind of Sheitan entranced and possessed his soul we will never know. Only mighty Allah. Artan and Linda waited until old woman closed the front door and then went silently back to the vehicle. *

Skoda , they got for replacement, was piece of nothing. It did not want to start and they are forced to take taxi. Artan called sergeant Naim and told him what happened and ordered him to send someone to pick up the vehicle. He didnt want police car to be stolen and newspaper to make fun about that. His chief will be freak out and all over him. When they come back, Linda asked duty officer about DVD player and TV and he said that there is one in technicians room and that he needs to find a key because technicians are out in the field. He was back with reserve key in two minutes. Another surprise was waiting for them later. Compact discs, they found, where mostly, how Artan expected, full of porno movies and pictures. But this were not an ordinary, straight porno movies. This was respectable gay collection. Barely legal gay collection! Linda and Artan watch to them self. Professor was that kind of man who is interested in young guys. Wow! This is something! I never saw gay movie before., Linda said fascinated with situation on the screen, Is this how they doing? They are pretty good looking boys. I dont know. I never saw something like this., said Artan inspecting her attraction with a muscular young men on the screen. You like this? What about you. Do not lie to me that you never saw something like this., she said without moving her view from TV. Good. That is enough. Thank god it is evidence and I am not afraid that you will take this home watch all night. We need some job to do., said Artan and turned off DVD and TV, Common, lets go to office. I need to talk with Naim about Skoda episode. You didnt answer my question., said Linda smiling, I know that people experimenting with they sexuality. It is not such a big deal. You can tell me. Linda, stop the crap and lets go. Yes, I saw on the cable TV such a movie and no, I did not experiment anything. I am straight like arrow. Now go! It is a order.

Linda jumped from the chair and start laughing. Artan shake with his head watching her walking the corridor toward the office. She was in god mood again and he likes when she laughing because it was so rare. She have nice smile and contagious laugh.
*

Next big surprise was waiting for them in the office. Yellow folder with forensic results of teachers death was on the Artans table. There was sticker on the front with phone number, dr. Bislims name and notice call immediately. Artan was surprised how fast report was on his table. He dialed number and opened folder. Dr. Bislim cold voice answered call. Yes? This is Inspector Krasniqi. I jus got your report. What is so urgent, doctor? Please check the cause of death. It is on second page. Artan turned the page. Expression on his face changed immediately. Shit. This is bad. He turned folder and showed with forefinger Linda what to read. Yes. He didnt kill himself. He was already dead, probably hour when he was hanged. He was strangled and than hanged., continued Doctor Bislimi. Thank you Doctor. So this is now murder case? A homicide? Yes. Have good day Inspector. If you need something, call me. You have my number. Yes, I do. You too, Doctor, have good day. Artan put phone receiver down. So, somebody killed our dear Professor and fake his suicide and fake it amateurish., said Linda listing the forensic report. A-ha. What are you think about this?, asked Artan watching her carefully. His partner was going slowly trough the report. She raised the head and shrugged with shoulders. First, we need to see that club then find out about his CD collection and how somebody can get in Pristina such explicit gay material. Some pictures look like homemade pictures. And definitely, we need to talk with his students tomorrow., Linda said closing the folder. So, you think what I am thinking. I dont know what are you thinking. What is happened in that school today is connected with the school. O, yeah, sure. Well, we are thinking the same way. She smiled. Somebody knock on the door. It was sergeant Naim. Nice to see you, Naim., said Inspector, What is new about our vehicle. I am so sorry about accident. I did not know that they gave to you that crappy car., he said trying to find excuse. Dont worry. How can you know? But, we need a car for tonight. Can you do something about that? And, also we have something else to do for us.

You will get your car tonight. I am sorry again. It was a mistake
OK, OK. Forget about Skoda. Just try to bring something else decent for transportation tonight, please.

Yes, I will. But I didnt know, continued Naim. Once more, forget about it., sighed Artan and raised hand, You need to find for us some information from the street. Who is selling illegal homosexual pornographic material in Pristina, OK? Naim shut up immediately. His famous deer glance show up. Now what?, shouted Artan. But, Inspector, he started mumbling, I do not know how. I It is not end of the world, man. Just go and ask your friends from street what is going on. I need that information tomorrow morning. And also something else. Write it down! I need any information about nightclub, or some other place under the name Tip-Top. Understood?

Understood sir, but

There is no but , interrupted him Artan, Now go and bring me some good information tomorrow. And we will wait for that car in seven. Artan was sitting in the chair watching Naims leaving. He took deep breath and turned back to the forensic report. No comment, please. He is good police officer but sometime is little slow., he said without rising view from report. I can notice that. In fact, I noticed that first day I came., said Linda tipping something on the computer, But he is reliable. He is. I hope he is. But if he bring us motokultivator for transportation, he will be not longer reliable. I will help you to bring him in unreliable state. Thank you, dear Lieutenant for your offer. Your mother will be proud of you. Shut up before you became very unreliable., cried Linda.
*

Artan informed Chief that suicide case became homicide and what knowledge they had until now. Chief was surprised how case changed and insists Artan to inform him about any further developing. And Naim did not disappoint them. Dark blue Kia Sorento was waiting for them on the parking lot together with sergeant and the papers. At last they will have decent transportation, thought Artan signing the documents.They went to see infamous Tip-Top nightclub. Well, there was something with name Tip-Top, a dark, cold and empty hole with couple of chairs, tables, and huge, metal bar with neon lights inside. Big bold guy in red sweater was making coffee behind them. Artan and Linda approached showing him police badges. He did not try to change his mean face expression. Bar is closed till ten in the evening How can I help you, inspectors., he said coldly putting his coffee on. Sound of his voice was deep like on the phone couple hours ago. Well, you can make us cafe macchiato and tee like good host, for beginning, and than answered some question., said Artan and sat on the bar chair. Linda followed him. Big guy sighed and without word turned back to coffee- mat.

We are in middle of suicide case investigation. Somehow man who killed himself had a phone number., said Artan watching his reaction, It was scribbled on the piece of paper founded in his wallet. Bartender put coffee and tee on the bar and turned back to his coffee. His face expression did not changed. And? What this have to do with the place? Probably nothing if this number was just a number. But it was not. And? I do not getting, Inspector. Where this story is going? Bartender was trying to stay calm. Tell me,you dont make pizzas, arent you?, asked Artan and smiled. No. We do not., answered man. He was now puzzled how this situation is going on. You are right. I have a so short memory., continued Artan and put sugar in his coffee. You told me same half hour ago. You remember? Men behind bar turned his sight to coffee pot and started making small circle with plastic spoon. He take deep breath. What are you want Inspector? Artan pulled out photography from his inside pocket. Do you recognize this man. Well, he is not looking very healthy on this picture., answered bartender watching police shoot. He did not have time to brush his hair. So?, asked patiently Artan. Linda jumped from chair. I need to go in restroom till your boys finished this nice conversation. It is OK for you guys?, she said and went without waiting answer. Female problems., said Artan with grin on his face, So, do you remember him. No. I dont. What happened? He hanged himself on his working place. I think it was about love. Really. Wow! Yes. His boyfriend left him. Artan noticed small spasm in bartender shoulders. And I think you know what I am talking about. I do?, he answered scratching his nose. Yes, you do. I think we have idea what is going on here. And you know how people are allergic on that kind of businesses, mister..? Sopi. Well, Mr. Sopi, they will be shut your bar down. By the way, this is your bar, isnt? No, it is not. I am just manager., answered Sopi. Artan continued. They will be not nice like we was when we shut down this place last time. Remember? Anyway, they will be shut down this place forever and god knows what will be happened to you, your boss and his reputation. Or else. Bold guy was watching him quietly. Then he took photography again and throw one more glance on here. OK. I saw him. He was with male company. A younger male company but definitely not under aged. That is all I know. Older guy was you regular customer? You mean is he coming often? I dont think so. I saw him first time. Maybe my guys from first shift know him.

And you see him when?.. Yesterday evening. He and that young man argued about something. Then, younger literary run away from bar. Older guy stayed for half hour more and left alone. What time? About eleven. Can you describe youngr man. Skinny, ordinary, nothing special. It was dark but I saw that he was in big, denim pants and, some kind of red, sport jacket. O yes, he had wool cap in same color like jacket. Artan write note and finished his macchiato. Linda jumped back on the chair. Your bathroom sucks and smell bad. Do something about that, man. You do not want sanitary inspection to be unhappy like me. Bartender jaw trembled little bit. He did not say anything. Linda pushed her tee. I do not need tee anymore. Are we finished, Inspector? Yes, I think so. Only, if this gentleman have something else to say to us... Artan watched man behind the bar. He stands his look without changing face expression. OK, Probably not. It was long day for us. Lets go home., said Artan and throw euro on the bar, Se you round, man., I hope not, answered bartender hissing.
*

What are you think what is going on there?, asked Artan Linda opening Kias door. Probably same thing like before but with man to man love with little more conspiracy. A gay club in Prishtina? , she said scratching her forehead, My god. It is pretty amazing. We dont know it is a gay club or just ordinary prostitution with gay addition. We will need to talk with somebody from Vice. They know much more about this hole. Artan started the engine and turned back vehicle. So, what you find there?, he asked. Linda pretended that she is surprised. There is a stairs and room upstairs but it was locked. Probably private space for special guests, I presume. We will need to have warrant order from the court to entranced. And, how you know that I was sneaking around? Common. I know that you never using public lavatories. I am police Inspector and good one. My level of perception is high. I am noticing everything. Yeah, right. You cant noticed that zipper on your pants is open if somebody else not said to you. About zipper on my pants, I must tell you that if is open it is mean that I am ready and Drive! I dont want to heard your macho shit. Linda turns her head and started watching people on the street.

What are you doing tonight, my dear partner?, asked Artan, inspecting her reaction with the end of his eye. Why. You asking me an date., answered Linda still watching the streets. A-ha, you can call that date if you want. We need to visit this nice place right this night. It is Sunday and club is working only for weekends if I still remember schedule I red on the door. What a memory, Sherlock. Yes, it is working only for weekends. Do I need to dress something special. Well, I will put some makeup and you dress your black suit with tie. I think that is a dress code for the club. Linda smiled and turned back to him. I do not doubt that you have something in your closet that will surprise me. Little, black, cocktail dress and high heels. What about you? Hugo Boss? Bitisian? Armani? By the way, this will be our first official date any. Your mother will be delighted. There is her daughter on date in the first, still unofficial, gay club. It is so romantic! You are totally asshole, you know that? She punched him in the shoulder. Artan felt the pain. She had very hard punch. He thought what will happen if this punch finished in his face. He didnt like that idea.
*

Club was half full. They passed the bouncer on the front door showing him badges. He was not surprised and also not thrilled. His owner probably explained him that it is possible police visit tonight. Bold guy, wasnt behind bar. Artan did not have time to call somebody from Vice and to have more information about Mr. Sopi, his boss and his TipTop business so they decided to found table in the corner and observe the customers. Bar was woman free zone, like lot of places in the town, but here they talk quietly holding each others hand, steering in each others eyes and smiling on unusual way. It was completely different than when you want drink tee with your buddies from neighborhood. Artan noticed couple of young boys with older guys. Older guy will be whispered something on the barmens ear and few moments after, boy will come. Artan called waiter and ordered Hineken beer and Linda asked for Bacardi Breezer. They drunk in silence watching unusual happening in front of they eyes. Artan was amazed why owner did not closed bar tonight or, at last, warned his customer about police present tonight. He told that to Linda. It is all about money. And, probably, somebody big is watching his back. You right. He is showing us that he is not scared. Maybe Mr. Big is his customer., he said that noticing one young, skinny boy in baggy jeans and red jacket entranced the bar. Waiter jumped and pushed him back whispering him something angry in the ear. Common! Our boy is here. Lets pick him up before he vanished., said Artan and jumped from chair. Linda followed him without word. Skinny boy in red jacket noticed them and run toward door. Artan jump to catch him but something punch him in the shoulder and he hit the wall. He heard how Linda cursing trying to find way trough tables. Mr. Sopi was on the door with a bouncer, smiling.

Inspector, what is hurry? You missed something? Jeton, help inspector! He have trouble hit the door. Get the fuck from the door, Sopi. It is obstruction of police work., said Artan panting and trying to get out. Linda was standing near to him nervously observing the situation. Sorry, Inspector it was accident. Isnt like that, Jeton. Bouncer did not say anything. Bold guy slowly removed himself from the door leaving him open. Have good night, Inspectors. Artan and Linda went outside on the street. Young boy was disappeared and Artan was furious. Fuck! We lost him. That motherfucker Sopi will be paid for this. What is happened with you? he turned to Linda. I stuck between tables. I almost kill myself and that guy who was decided to take piss or whatever just in same time when you run., she said closing zipper on her jacket. So what we gone do now. Lets remove our car near to the market, in the dark, and wait for a moment. I think he will be back soon., he said trying to catch the sound of running steps but street was quiet. Common, lets wait for our lover boy.
*

They did not wait for long. The red jacket showed from the ruins of the former Yugoslav police building. He start walking fast toward bar. Inspector jumped from vehicle and run to catch him. Kid was surprised. Artan slowed down ad raised hands up. Calm down, man! I just need to talk with you! Just talk! Boy was frightened but he stops. You are police, arent you? What you want for me?, he cried and furiously trying to find a way to escape. Nothing specially. I just need information about Mr. Mustafi.I think you know him. He killed him self and we have knowledge that you saw him day before his dead., said Artan and started to coming closer. He was about eighteen, skinny with trace of firs facial hair and pimples on the face. Only thing on him worthy were a big, blue eyes. His red North Face jacket was dirty like his jeans pants. A working class kid. Lets seat in the vehicle and talk. OK? Artan show direction with hand, Nothing will happened and nobody will see you. Young boy was reluctant for few seconds and then he confirmed with nodding. They went together toward Kia. Linda opened door and step outside. Inspector, this is ? Kid said name. Bashkim. This is Bashkim. He will tell us something about Mr. Mustafs last night, arent you Bashkim? Bashkims view was jumping from Artan to Linda and back. He nodded again. Good., said Linda, Hop in on the front seat and we will talk. Boy slowly sat in the front curiously inspecting inside of police vehicle. Artan start first. Newer been in the police car? I dont want to loosing you precious time. We just want to know how you became familiar with Mr. Mustafi. Dont tell us something like that you

do not had a business whit him. We have enough witnesses who saw you together several times? So? Artan blink to Linda. She realized what he want and accepts the good copbad cop game. Common kid. I do not have all night to wait. Spit it., continued Linda angry. Boy took a deep breath. I meet him in Tip-Top bar. He paid us drink and we started talk. Who are us?, asked Linda. Bashkim look her scared. Dont be a scared. I told you that nothing would happen to you. said calmly Artan and then turned to the Linda, Easy, Inspector. There is no need for unkind attitude. Continue man. Boy turn head to the ground. Me and my friend Uka. He was Ukas teacher last year so he knew him. Linda leaned closer to kids ear. Are you boys homos? Geys? . Kid was quiet. Must be, because you hanging on place like Tip-Top? I do not think that you will catch girls on that place. Linda smiled, Maybe some dude dressed like girl. No, I am not homos and neither Uka. We have a girlfriends. You cant became homo if you blow somebody... I know that for sure., cried boy, I am not homo! Yeah, right. One American president said that blow is not sex . According to that ,you are not and I dont care. All I want to know is how you ended with people like Professor., asked Artan scratching his goatee. Boy in front of him was totally confused. Poor , working class, kid who is now discovering his real sexuality on the worst way. In smelly latrines and rooms blowing or whatever horny, ugly, old people. You are selling your ass for money. For how much?, interrupted them Linda harshly. Kid turned his view to Artan begging for help. How you get involved in this bullshit, Bashkim?, asked him calmly Artan. Kid took another deep breath and started playing with air condition exhaust on the side. Uka knew some guys from street and they introduced him to boss. He called us if he needs us. I mean, he called Uka. Who is the boss?, asked Linda. I do not know him, said Kid, Uka saw him once. Guy gave him mobile phone and Uka told me that I will get one if customers are satisfied. I never talk about him with Uka. Only I know that he is very rich and that he is driving new , silver Mercedes Benz. Uka is fascinated with the cars. Good. How much money you need to give to the Boss? Half and half is my. We gave money to Boldy. He is bartender in the Tip Top. I can imagine who will that be? What are think ,inspector., Artan smiled to Linda, And what about Mr. Mustafi. Nothing! Really!, answered kid nervously, He wanted something else for me. Some stupid games and I quit. Artan noticed that kid is now lying. He became more nervous and started crashing fingers.

What kind of games, Bashkim? You know, games and other things. Linda glanced Artan astonishingly. Artan was carefully watching kid in front of him. So, that was happened yesterday in Tip-Top? Isnt? Boy rose surprisingly look to him. Isnt, Bashkim? Sort off. And I run away. I didnt saw him after that. I swear in my mothers grave, I did not. OK. By the way, where you living now if we want to find you? Here. Around. With some people, you know. I see! And Uka? Where he living, and do you know his mobile phone number. You just mentioned that he have mobile phone., ask Artan. Boy was thinking for moment and than give his friend address and mobile phone number. He is living with his family near to road to Ferizaj, on the end of the town. His father just starts building the house. And where is your family?, asked Linda. Kid became older like his voice. He was steering in front of him on the empty street. I am from Shtimlje. My mother died when on same day when I was born. My father blamed me because of that and bit a shit of me every day so I run away from home.. My father has a new wife and he does not want to hear about me. That is bad, man. Well, I think that is everything I want to know, Bashkim., said Artan calmly, You can go now. He pulls out from inside pocket business card with his phone number and gave to kid. If you have something interesting for me or you need help, call me any time of day and night. And, Bashkim, take my advice and stay away from Tip-Top bar. It is not good for you. Not in this moment. Kid jump from vehicle and, without word, disappeared in the darkness. Artan turned to Linda Do you think that kid will listen my advice? Not really. This is lot of life for eighteen years old kid., said Linda watching dark street where kid just vanished. It is., confirmed Artan, So what you think about his relationship with Professor. I think that he is lying. He is hiding something. Probably, but I think we need to talk with his friend Uka and we will find out what is really happened. You are right Linda. We will see tomorrow. I am so tired. Lets go home. Yes. Me too. Lets go home. Tomorrow is a brand new Monday. Enough time for everything.
*

Boss! Yes? We fixed the problem. Good. So whats happened? Why police came?

Our good customer, Professor. He hangs him self and they started sniffing around. Somehow, they find out that Bashkim was with him last night before he killed himself. How they got that? I do not know, but you know Bashkim. He had big, filthy mouth. I did not like him at all. Had? What are you mean had? Well, that is the problem we fixed. Bashkim and Uke told us that they killed Professor and hanged him to look like suicide. Shit! Why they killed him? Like they told us, Professor was jealous on Uke. He likes Bashkim too much .On his own way, actually. Anyway, there was big fight, Uke pushed him and somehow he broke his neck. Rest is picked up from movies. Stupid kids. And?.. Do not worry boss. We taught them how to make real suicide. They learned on the hardest way. What about our customers? We have fresh blood. Much better than this two dirty punks. OK. Call this number only if is emergency, only if police show again. Understood?! Do not worry, sir. Me and Inspector Krasniqi are good friends. Then the line shut up. Big bold guy smiled, grab from his pocket light blue Nokia 3310 mobile phone, pull out the chip, and throw him trough the window of his car and then started vehicle. He went to pick up fresh meat on buss station. Delivering from Albania.
*

Bodies looked like broken dolls. Puppets without strings to hold arms and legs and spread all over concrete and dirt. Blood around them was mixed with the dust and it was like cooper brown molasses. One of the boys red jacket was now gray. They were dead, smashed by the fall in the empty, devastated, old police building which was almost like home for them. Almost. THE END