On the Ropes: A Duffy Dombrowski Mystery

  I still had no idea what was going on.

  “Therefore, on behalf of the city and upon the recommendation of Officer Kelley, Mr. Zuckerman, and the city of Crawford, we would like to honor you with a special ceremony this week at city hall. You, Duffy Dombrowski, will be our very first ‘Human Service Worker of the Year.’”

  “You hear that, son?” Hymie said, shaking my hand. “You made me very proud.”

  Claudia’s jaw hung open and she went pale.

  “So, Duffy, you haven’t answered us,” Mayor Jenkins said. “Can we honor you with a ceremony at city hall this Friday?”

  “Of course, Mr. Mayor, I’d be honored.”

  “Now, I’ll be there and Mr. Zuckerman will be there. We’d like someone else in your life to present you with the award and say a few things about your dedication. Is there someone who comes to mind, Duff?”

  “Yes, sir, there is.” I smiled from ear to ear.

  “Who would that be, Duffy?” the mayor asked.

  “I can’t think of anyone who I’d like to give me that award more than my boss, Claudia Michelin.”

  I thought Claudia was going to collapse. Hymie and the mayor looked at Claudia. Through gritted teeth and a face that showed more tension than a bungee cord, Claudia managed the most painful smile I’d ever seen.

  “I’d love to,” she said.

  It was the second best time I ever had in this office.

  The End

  About the Author

  Tom Schreck’s debut novel is based on his experience as a former director of an inner city drug clinic and a professional boxing judge. Officiating fights at Madison Square Garden and elsewhere, he has appeared on HBO, Showtime, and ESPN. Schreck also writes a boxing column for Fightnews.com and has contributed to The Business Review, Professional Counselor, and Catfancy. He lives in New York.