Hunting A Spider- The Pain Of Unconditional Love 19

   While I pondered my mother’s fate, the authorities in Ohio moved with rapid speed. Since Early is a retired cop with a distinguished career, I let him handle the investigators in Ohio, who naturally were very skeptical of him, despite his impeccable background. “They think I’m a mental case, but I probably would think the same thing if I were in their shoes.” Early said. “Are they taking you seriously?” I asked. “I suppose, but they seem more interested in me. We really stirred up the shit tank on this one, Drayton, and I fear that we’re both gonna be raked over the coals before they realize that we’re trying to help.” “It’s a big lead, Early, and one that they didn’t find.” Early gave me a wary look, tinged with frustration. “Drayton, when they discover you’re family history combined with the latest development involving your mother, things could get real dicey.” “I understand that, but they just need to follow the evidence.” “My family history is gonna get dug up too, Drayton.” “That wasn’t your fault, Early, and you know it. Let’s just simmer down and take it slow and easy.” “That’s not how it’s gonna be played out, Drayton.”

   The last thing I need is for Early to fall apart on me, but that’s what usually happens when he starts dwelling on his son, and because there’s no dealing with him when he gets into one of his spells, I would have to battle two fronts by myself, which would be overwhelming. For such a hard man, Early does have a soft spot for his family, who never adequately reciprocated his unconditional love for them. Sometimes I wonder if the world would be a better place minus unconditional love and forgiveness because there would be less pain and frustration to deal with. I know the Buckeye Strangler doesn’t concern himself with unconditional love.

   Nor does Mother.