Silent Strings: Nashville Justice, #4

By Cole Steele

In the heart of Music City, an unexpected legal battle begins. "Silent Strings", the gripping new entry in the "Nashville Justice" series, throws attorney Lori Tolliver and investigator Shaun into a complex fight for justice. When Chinese immigrant Lu Jianwang, a food truck owner, finds himself the target of a powerful local organization's lawsuit, a story of conspiracy, fear, and resilience unfolds. From the bustling Nashville streets to a looming international incident, this riveting tale strikes a powerful chord. Prepare to be pulled into the rhythm of danger, discovery, and relentless pursuit of truth in "Nashville Justice: Silent Strings".

• Language: English
• Publisher: Cole Steele
• Release date: May 20, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223851646

Cole Steele

Cole Steele is a versatile and talented author residing in the United States. With a vivid imagination and a knack for storytelling, Cole Steele has successfully created two enthralling book stories and a captivating short story series. Cole Steele is deeply grateful to the writers who first ignited his passion for storytelling and provided the inspiration to embark on this creative journey.

Book preview

ONE

Nashville, Tennessee, a city usually brimming with vibrant country music and Southern charm, was in the midst of a grey, rainy morning. As Lori Tolliver was pouring her second cup of coffee in her small law office, she heard an unexpected knock at the door.

Before she could answer, a disheveled man pushed the door open. Panting and soaking wet from the rain, he was hunched over, clutching a side as if he'd been running for his life. He looked around wildly, then closed the door behind him and leaned against it.

I need help, he gasped in heavily accented English. His dark eyes were filled with a mixture of desperation and fear.

Startled, Lori put down her coffee and approached the man. You're safe here, she said, her tone steady. She recognized him as Lu Jianwang, the friendly man who operated a food truck downtown.

What happened, Lu? she asked, guiding him to a chair.

Lu quickly described his harrowing journey, from China to South Korea, and then stowing away on a cargo ship to America. He told her about the night he insulted the Premier of China, referring to him as a Rabid Panda on WeChat. He described how authorities showed up at his residence in China the next day and how he fled before they could imprison him.

Once in Nashville, he used the last of his money to purchase a food truck, his only source of income. A local church had taken his family in, providing them a place to hide from those who sought to force him back to China.

And now, Lu said, looking up at Lori, two men from an organization here in Nashville are suing me. They say I stole from them. They are not who they seem to be, Lori. They are part of China's secret police. They want to send me back.

Lori listened, her mind racing. She had handled tough cases before, but this was different. The stakes were life and death.

As she looked into Lu's pleading eyes, she knew there was only one thing she could do.

Don't worry, Lu. We won't let them take you. She turned to her office door and called out. Shaun! We have work to do!

TWO

Shaun, a rough-looking man with a stern face softened only by his warm eyes, stepped into the office. A two-year-old, tattooed date on his wrist marked his release from prison. Since then, he had served as Lori's investigator, using his street smarts to dig up information in places the law couldn't reach.

Talk to me, he said, glancing from Lori to the frightened man sitting across her desk.

Lori explained the situation, her words cut with concern and urgency. Shaun listened carefully, his keen eyes studying Lu as he nodded in understanding.

That's a serious accusation, Lu. Are you sure about this NGO? The Metro Nashville Chinese Association? Shaun asked. His question wasn't doubting Lu but understanding the gravity of the situation. They needed to be sure of what they were getting into.

Yes, Lu replied, a hint of certainty underlining his fear. They are after me. They've already vandalized my food truck, my only means of income. They want me to give up, to go back.

Shaun looked at Lori, and she could see the gears turning in his head. I'll need to dig up information about this NGO. Find out who's running it, who's funding it. This is far from an ordinary civil suit, Lori.

"I know, Shaun.