“I’m sorry, ma’am, but we can’t take checks. We’re not allowed. It’s cash, money order, or cashier’s check only.” The clerk pointed to a sign on the desk that listed the approved ways to pay bail.

Hannah could read the sign from her chair in the waiting room. NO PERSONAL CHECKS. CASH, CASHIERS’ CHECKS, OR MONEY ORDERS ONLY. NO EXCEPTIONS.

“That’s ridiculous. I’m the mother-in-law of the Winnetka County Sheriff. Do you really think I’d give you a bad check?”

“I’m sorry, ma’am,” the clerk stood firm. “We’re not allowed to take personal checks.”

Andrea stepped up to the counter. “My mother’s upset,” she said. “Surely you can understand that. This is the first time anyone in our family has ever been in court, and we didn’t know about the rules for paying my sister’s bail.”

“I understand,” the clerk said, “and I wish I could help you, but I can’t take a personal check. It’s not allowed.”

“But I’m Andrea Todd, and I’m the wife of the Winnetka County Sheriff, Bill Todd. I’ll personally guarantee that my mother’s check is good.”

The clerk looked as if she wished she were anywhere but standing behind the counter, but she shook her head. “I’m sure it’s good, but I’m not allowed to accept it. Your sister will have to stay here in jail until you can produce cash, a money order, or a cashier’s check for the entire amount. It’s the rule and I’m not allowed to make any exceptions.”

Delores pursed her lips and Hannah knew her mother’s expression well. She was about to give the clerk a piece of her mind. Andrea stood by, seemingly a helpless witness to what was about to happen, and Hannah sent up a silent prayer that her mother would calm down. If Delores insulted the clerk or caused a scene, she might be the next person who had to go in front of Judge Colfax!

And that was when the white knight arrived, striding into the clerk’s office. “Let me,” Norman said, silencing Delores with a glance and taking her arm. “I’ve got this handled.”

Hannah watched in amazement as he turned to the clerk and gave her a smile. “Sorry for the trouble. They didn’t realize how the system works, but I’m here to make Miss Swensen’s bail.”

“Thank you, sir,” the clerk sounded very relieved. “Ten percent of the bail for Miss Swensen is five thousand dollars. You’ll have to put up collateral for the rest.”

“I’m prepared to do that,” Norman said. Then he opened his wallet and drew out several cashier’s checks. “I have one for five thousand dollars right here,” he told the clerk, handing it over. “And if you give me the papers, I’ll sign over my house for collateral.”