There was no hatred there, just a look of satisfaction that sent a chill up Ella’s spine. Despite a big, colorful bruise on her cheek, Gladys looked like a cat who’d just eaten a six-pack of canaries. Working hard to keep her expression neutral, Ella sat down as Carolyn began to question and examine Gladys. “She told me to turn around just as we reached the police car, and slapped me as hard as she could.” Gladys smiled at Ella. “But you didn’t get away with it, even though the other policeman wasn’t looking. My brother Leo saw you, and will testify to what you did, too. I bet you don’t have many people stand up to you this way.” Ella said nothing, but held her gaze. Carolyn examined the woman. “Was this bruise caused by a right- or left-handed person?” Carolyn asked matter-of-factly. Gladys looked at Ella, then at her right waist where her weapon was holstered. “Right-handed,” she smiled confidently. “You sure?” Carolyn shook her head, shrugged, then looked at the uninjured side of Gladys’ face.
