Spolit

by

Joanne Ellis

Published by Night Publishing, Smashwords edition

Copyright 2010, Joanne Ellis

ISBN 978-1-4523-4193-4

Thank you for downloading this e-book. You are welcome to share it with your friends. This book may be reproduced, copied and distributed for non-commercial purposes, provided the book remains in its complete original form.

All characters are fictional, and any resemblance to anyone living or dead is accidental.

To discover other books by Joanne Ellis, please go to http://www.nightpublishing.com/id34.html.

The terror in her eyes and the realisation she’s going to die is sweet medicine to my soul.

Her eyes widen, and then concede, when the spoilt bitch knows her time is over.

Her blood spills as I carve into her flesh my hate for her perfect existence.

Oh, the gratifying sound of her last breath.

She too will taste the feeling of nothingness.

Chapter 1

Lucas

Monday

Lucas tried to shake off his nightmare as the icy water prickled his skin. The hollow pain living in his chest threatened to suffocate him. He stuck his head under the spray while their faces haunted his mind and forced the torment deep down, back where it came from, where it belonged.

The shrill of the phone broke through his troubled thoughts. He held their images in his mind for a moment before allowing them to fade. As he cleared the haze, they disappeared. Chilled through, he stepped out and his aching body protested with a shiver. Physical pain was easier.

Throwing a towel over his hips, he ran to answer the insistent ringing.

“Hudson.”

“It’s me,” Maggie responded.

“What’s up?”

“We got another one.”

“Dammit. Where?”

As Maggie gave him directions, Lucas pulled a suit, shirt and tie from his well ordered wardrobe.

“I’ll be there in twenty,” he told her.

Lucas returned to the bathroom and shaved quickly. He glanced in the mirror and noticed his eyes bloodshot from lack of sleep. He shrugged. What did it matter? Running his fingers through his hair, he took a few deep breaths in preparation for what he was about to face. He threw on his clothes and after a tedious ride in the lift, he jumped into his unmarked car.

As he drove, memories of that day came with a vengeance. The day he’d successfully put behind him, until last week. The visions refused to fade night and day now. He looked down and saw the blood, so much blood.

He shoved himself back to reality. He needed to concentrate. During his twelve years as a cop, he’d seen the horrors, dealt with them all before pushing them aside. Some were harder than others but he’d gotten through mostly unscathed, until now. This case was different. It was affecting him.

Lucas parked next to his partner’s car and as he climbed out the humidity warmed his still cold limbs. The oppressive heat would only get worse as the day progressed. Maggie leant against her car, waiting. When she spotted him, she strode over, her frame athletic and expression grim. Even with a scowl, she was a stunner. With her short blonde hair and penetrating blue eyes her beauty was unique. She certainly didn’t look like your average cop. Her physique and angular features turned heads.

“Definitely the same?’ Lucas asked.

“’Fraid so.”

A long forgotten yet familiar lump surfaced in Lucas' throat as they flashed their badges at the taped-off scene. An officer directed them towards the dank alleyway in the rear, which was undetectable from the road. The unmistakable stink of rotting garbage assaulted them as they turned the corner.

The victim lay face-up, naked and brutalised. She appeared to be in her mid twenties and would probably have been beautiful, like the first victim once was. Her wrists and ankles were lacerated as though she’d been bound and at her throat remained a gaping smile. The absence of blood implied she’d been murdered elsewhere. Purple and yellow bruises speckled her body indicating days of abuse while her face was battered and swollen. Lucas could see the fear frozen in her unseeing eyes.

Across her chest the words SPOILT BITCH were slashed in red - light and dark. Lucas determined the varying degrees of colour and congealment indicated the wounds were inflicted over time. Another pretty young woman tortured and left in a dirty alley behind a warehouse, as if she meant nothing. It would not feel like nothing to the people who loved her. Lucas knew this first-hand. Bile rose in his throat. What kind of sick bastard could inflict these horrors?

Techs were walking the grid, collecting evidence and taking photos when the Medical Examiner arrived. David Walker was in his late forties. A short, squat man with pointed features and thinning hair, his compassionate nature complemented his thoroughness. His knees creaked from the strain as he knelt beside her.

“The chest wounds and cause of death appear consistent with the last victim,” he began. “Ligature marks on the wrists and ankles too.”

“Similar dump spot as the last one,” Lucas said.

“Yes, all too familiar.” Maggie shook her head. “Any ID again, Dave?”

“Can you help me roll her over?”

As he crouched, Lucas slipped on latex gloves from his pocket and helped roll the body from back to side. He held her in place as Dave examined the victim, took her temperature and checked for ID beneath her. Lucas swallowed down the lump still wedged in his throat; handling dead victims never got any easier.

“Yes, here it is,” Dave said. He passed the ID to Maggie’s now gloved hand, which she bagged.

“Kate Miller,” Maggie read.

“Thanks, Dave.” Lucas turned to Maggie. “Same MO.”

She nodded.

Lucas helped ease the body back again and as he stood, tore off his gloves ready to deposit them in the nearest bin.

“Let’s go,” he said. “See if we can work out what these two have in common.”

* * *

At the station, coffee in hand, Lucas logged onto his computer. As it went through its sluggish loading process, he rubbed tired eyes, ran his fingers through his hair and drank his strong caffeine hit, anything to distract his mind. A solitary word became his silent mantra. Focus. He tapped his fingers impatiently, waiting for the missing persons’ database to load Kate Miller’s report. He considered making another coffee when at last the details materialised before him.

Kate had been reported missing the previous Monday night, although she’d in fact been missing since Sunday. He pulled the report on the first victim, Libby Greene, from the pile on his desk, to scan again with fresh eyes, checking the correlations. Libby had been missing for six days before her body was discovered early the previous Tuesday morning.

Libby had been sexually assaulted several times over the six days, while the letters cut into her chest were also inflicted over time. Her throat had been slashed, leaving the identical gaping hole they’d seen that morning. She too, had been dumped behind a warehouse having been killed elsewhere. ID left with the body but no other possessions.

“Hey,” Maggie said. As she slid into her chair opposite, she aimed a breakfast roll at him. “Here, eat something.”

“Thanks, but I don’t know if I can.” He grimaced. “Kate’s been missing for six days. There’s an overlap.”

“So he might’ve grabbed Kate before he killed Libby.” She paused. “This is one sick puppy we’re dealing with here, Hudson. Holding one girl while stalking another and perhaps holding them both. Can you imagine what they would be listening to ...?”

Lucas nodded. “He could have more than one location too.” He shook his head in frustration. “We’re speculating until we get Dave’s report.”

“A lead would be helpful.” Maggie paused. “I guess it’s time to talk to Kate’s family, see to the notification.”

Maggie studied Lucas as he grabbed his jacket from the chair and picked up his keys without saying a word. This usually indicated he wanted to drive. She noted the tight set of his jaw and the dark smudges under his eyes. He wasn’t sleeping again. She quickened her step as she followed him to his car. He lit a smoke, a habit she barely remembered him having. His dark eyes reflected his far off thoughts and troubled mind. His self imposed solitary life was slowly destroying what little light remained. His passionate nature was being torn apart by loneliness. Maggie was well aware of how much this case would be disturbing him. She wondered whether this would be the one that tipped him over the edge.

Chapter 2

Chelsea

Friday

Chelsea sat on her overstuffed suitcase and forced it closed. Although she’d planned a three day trip, she’d packed enough for a week. She thought back to her last visit and realised it had been months since she’d visited her home town. Eagerness to escape from her busy schedule, along with excitement about seeing her family, rose within her. After hopping off the case on the bed, she threw the remaining items into a bag.

“I think you’ve packed enough,” said Elle.

“Probably. I never pack light.”

Chelsea shrugged before glancing over her shoulder at her friend and roommate. Elle’s tall, slim frame leant gracefully against the doorway. She flipped her long, blonde hair over her shoulder as she studied Chelsea through dark blue eyes.

“I’d better get going. If I’m late I’ll never hear the end of it.” Chelsea lugged the suitcase off the bed.

“Let me help you.” Elle took most of the heavy burden. “Seeing I have the house to myself this weekend, I might ask my new guy over for ... dinner.” She grinned.

“So when do I get to meet him?”

“If all goes well, this weekend.” Elle nudged Chelsea with her elbow. “Maybe we can organise something when you get home.”

“Sounds good.”

They walked into the garage and Chelsea hit the button to open the automatic door. Elle loaded the suitcase into Chelsea’s sleek, compact car while she jumped in.

Chelsea stuck her head out the window as she backed out. “Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.”

“Doesn’t leave me much,” Elle grumbled before waving.

Chelsea waved as she drove away before glancing back at her home, which held many memories, happy and painful. The two storey contemporary house with a small colourful garden - which Chelsea tried to keep tidy when time permitted - was welcoming, while the two balconies extending from the front bedrooms added charm and a view. Regardless of the sadness that surrounded her within its walls, she felt a smile tug at her lips at the comforting sight of home.

Leaning forward she turned the radio up and settled in for the long drive ahead.

* * *

Amy

Monday

Lucas drove in brooding silence while Maggie scanned Libby’s murder file and Amy Miller’s statement about Kate. When finished, she turned to stare at him.

“What?” he asked and grinned, hoping it would deter her questions.

“Are you ok?”

“Yeah.”

“I just thought ...”

“I’m fine, Mags.”

“If you want to talk about it ...?”

“I know where you are.” He smiled. “Thanks.”

Their silence resumed and continued for the rest of the journey. Lucas parked out the front of the small townhouse where Kate lived with her sister Amy.

“Let’s get this over with,” he said.

The girl who answered their knock appeared to be a younger version of Kate and there was no doubt they were in the right place.

“Can I help you?” she asked.

“Yes, I’m Detective Hudson.” He showed the girl his badge. “This is Detective Johnson. We’re here in relation to Kate Miller’s disappearance.”

The hopeful smile which greeted them disappeared from her face.

“Did you find her?”

“Yes, Ma’am, we believe so,” Maggie said. “May I ask your name please?”

“Yes, my name is Amy Miller. Is she okay?”

“Are your parents at home?”

“Only Kate and I live here. Please will you tell me? What is it?”

“You might want to sit down. Can we come in?”

“Please, where is she?”

Amy’s anxiety-filled eyes darted between Lucas and Maggie.

“We believe we found your sister this morning.”

“Where is she? Is she ...?”

“Perhaps it would be better if we came in.”

“Okay.”

Amy led them to the sitting room and perched on the edge of the couch. Maggie sat beside her and Lucas took the chair opposite.

Amy stared at them for a moment wide eyed before asking in a broken voice “Please, where is she?”

“We’re really sorry ... your sister has been murdered,” Maggie said gently.

“Oh no, please no,” Amy whispered as the blood drained from her face. “Kate ...”

Tears streamed down her face as she sat rigid for a moment, her face full of shock and disbelief. She buried her face in her hands and broke into wrenching sobs. The two detectives glanced at each other; they hated this part of the job. Several heartbreaking minutes passed before Amy’s tears subsided and her composure returned. She took a deep breath and with a determined set to her chin, looked at Maggie.

“We’re very sorry about your sister but we do need to ask you some questions so we can find out what happened to her. Would you like to call someone? We could continue this later.”

“I want to help.”

“If you need time,” Maggie said.

“No, I want to do it now. What do you need to ask me?”

“When was the last time you saw Kate?” Lucas began.

“On Sunday night as I was leaving to go out with friends. About six, I think, as the movie started at seven.”

“Was she here when you got home?”

“I don’t know. It was about eleven and her door was closed.”

“When did you realise she was gone?”

“The next day. She’s usually home from work by six, so when she wasn’t home by eight, I began to worry. I rang her work and they said she hadn’t been in ...” Amy’s voice trembled. She dabbed at her eyes with a tissue.

“This was when you reported her missing?”

“I rang her phone first and heard it ringing from her bag in her room.” She paused. Lucas and Maggie exchanged another glance. Libby’s possessions had been left at home too. “I rang everyone we know and no-one had seen her ... so I reported her missing.”

Amy picked at the tissues scrunched in her shaking hands and chewed on her lower lip.

“Did she say if she was going anywhere or meeting with someone?” Lucas asked.

“No.”

“Do you know if she was having anyone over?” Maggie asked.

“Um, she mentioned she’d met this guy but she didn’t say if she was meeting him.”

“Did she tell you his name?”

“No.”

“Perhaps she had him over or he came to pick her up?”

“I doubt she would have invited him here. She’s really ... cautious. She might have planned to go out but she didn’t say anything. Kate would have told me if she was seeing anyone special. We are … I mean were, very close.” She bit her lip again and fresh tears threatened.

“Could there be anyone who may have held a grudge against her?”

“No! She’s a kind, beautiful person. I don’t know why anyone would want to do this.”

The tears Amy held back now ran down her face.

“Just a few more questions and then we will leave you in peace,” Maggie said.

“Do you or your sister have a lot of money?” Lucas asked.

“What?”

“Is your family well off? Were you spoilt?”

“No. Why are you asking me this?” She furrowed her brow.

“There was a ... note left at the scene.”

“No, our parents are working class. We rent this apartment. We pay our own way ... I ... I don’t understand.”

“Can you think of anything else about the man she was seeing?” Maggie asked.

She shook her head. Amy didn’t bother wiping away the flowing tears now.

“We don’t want to make this any harder than it already is but we need to send over some crime scene investigators to check for fingerprints and evidence, in case she invited someone in.”

She nodded her assent.

“We appreciate it.” Maggie paused. “We also need someone to come down and identify her. Would you like us to arrange for your parents to do it? We would have gone to them first but we didn’t have any contact details.”

“It’s ok, I’ll ring my parents. I don’t know how I am ... Can we do it later?”

“Yes, when you’re ready. Are you sure you’re ok?”

She nodded.

“Again, we’re sorry,” Maggie said as Amy showed them to the door.

Once in the car Lucas and Maggie sat in silence for a few minutes, both lost in their own thoughts.

“More of the same,” Maggie spoke breaking the quiet. “Both had a mystery guy and were missing five days or longer. Neither spoilt nor well off but had the words cut into them. Why use these particular words?”

“I’m having trouble with that too. They both have dark hair and are short and petite too. Maybe they resemble someone or they dressed well and he assumed they were rich.”

“Hopefully Dave will have something for us.”

Chapter 3

Broken Souls

Friday

It was around nine but there appeared to be little activity on the streets. As Chelsea drove through the stillness, a familiar sentimentality flowed through her. Her mind drifted back to the first time she’d brought Wes to meet her family. How his brilliant blue eyes widened in amazement at the houses and estates, almost as if he couldn’t believe places like this existed. She remembered his beaming smile as they drove in the gates and how proud she’d been to bring him home.

Stop it, Chelsea, he’s gone.

The second Chelsea pulled to a stop, her sister ran out to meet her. Charlotte wrapped her in a big bear hug as Chelsea climbed from the car.

Charlotte’s curly strawberry-blonde hair bounced and her dark brown eyes sparkled as she gave Chelsea an animated update on the latest gossip. Her chatter remained constant as she strode towards the house. Chelsea, considerably shorter than her tall, slim sister, quickened her steps to keep up. As they entered the large hall, a fluffy grey cat wandered in and wound his way around Chelsea’s legs.

“Hello, Sebastian.” Chelsea beamed as she picked up their beloved pet. “It has been so long since I’ve seen you.”

Chelsea placed Sebastian down as Sarah’s short, petite frame rushed down the stairs, to embrace her eldest child.

“Oh, darling, I’m so glad you’re finally here. I was beginning to worry.” Her brow creased. “I wish you would leave earlier and get here before dark.”

“I couldn’t close early today. I had to finish some bouquets for a wedding this weekend.”

The arrangements were for her shop, Bloom, which she’d bought with the help of a business loan, several years before. Chelsea took pride in what she’d achieved without the aid of her wealthy parents.

“You work too hard, Chelsea. Maybe you should hire more help.” Sarah stopped. Chelsea’s expression silenced her. “Very well, no lecture. Let’s go and locate our men.”

The girls followed their mother toward the study while Charlotte continued to update Chelsea. “You’re not going to believe this but Evan is already seeing Sasha Brooks.”

“You broke up about three weeks ago, didn’t you? I thought it wasn’t that serious.”

“That is not the point. I broke up with him and he still should be heartbroken.”

“Aren’t you already interested in someone else?”

“Once again that is not the point.” She pouted her full lips before stomping into the study.

Chelsea laughed, amused by her sister’s latest folly. As she followed Charlotte into the room that had always been their sanctuary, the comforting warmth surrounded her. The blazing fire from the hearth produced an inviting glow.

Her grandfather, Harold, sat in one of the comfortable leather chairs by the fire, drinking his ritual nightcap of brandy. His thick beard always ready to tickle your cheek and his wavy grey hair was, as usual, in disarray. Chelsea always found her Pa to be an uplifting sight.

Her father, Bradley, sat opposite, attempting to read a book. His lanky frame filled the chair, while his dark wavy hair crept down his face as he came very close to snoozing.

Chelsea’s brother, Hayden, a younger version of his father, lay on the adjacent couch with iPod plugs in his ears. He thumped out a beat on his legs.

Seeing her baby brother, ten years her junior at fifteen, always brought forth familiar tender feelings. She’d loved to mother him as a child.

Hearing the women enter the room, Bradley’s eyes sprang open as though he wasn’t about to doze off and Harold beamed at her.

“Come over here and give your old Pa a kiss.”

Chelsea walked over to give her grandfather an affectionate cuddle and kiss. “Hi Pa, it is so good to see you. Hope you’ve been good.”

“Never. I have to keep Mrs. Simpson down the road on her toes.”

Chelsea laughed and proceeded to her father. “Hi, Dad,” she said giving him a squeeze. “I’ve missed you; it’s nice to be home.”

“We miss you too, honey. It has been far too long.”

Chelsea glanced over at Hayden, who was still playing a drum solo and totally oblivious to anything happening around him.

“Hayden,” Sarah yelled.

“Huh?” he yelled over the music. “What?” He opened his eyes and seeing his sister, pulled the plugs out of his ears. “Hi, Sis.”

Chelsea walked over to her brother and kissed him on the top of his head. “Hey, Hads.”

“Now I can go to bed?” he mumbled.

Hayden unfolded his long, lean frame from the couch and trundled out of the study and upstairs to his room in the left wing of the house.

“So full of conversation, our Hayden,” said Sarah, rolling her eyes.

“He’s a teenager, Mum. I don’t remember being much better. Cut him some slack.”

“I do, Chelsea, but sometimes trying to talk to him is like pulling teeth.”

Chelsea curled up on the couch her brother had vacated, happiness warming her as she listened to the chatter around her. For the first time in months she felt relaxed and comfortable. She soon discovered her eyes growing heavy.

Through her sleep haze Chelsea heard her name and opened her eyes to see Sarah’s kind face beside hers.

“I think perhaps you should go off to bed, honey, especially if you want to get an early start in the garden tomorrow.”

She glanced around to discover only Sarah and Charlotte were still up.

She said goodnight before heading up the staircase to her old room still painted mauve with butterfly motifs adorning the walls from her teenage years. Her white canopy bed draped with sheer curtains looked inviting as always. Remembering her suitcase, she turned to retrieve it from the car and paused when she saw it on the seat by the window. Probably brought up by Bradley. She smiled.

As she prepared for sleep, she tried to ignore the memories of Wes. They troubled her most in this room. She recalled their last visit together when he’d proposed to her on the balcony, under a star-filled sky.

After the family celebrations, they had laid together on this very bed. His broad shoulders were facing her as he propped up on one arm beside her, staring at her with his pale blue eyes. His straight blonde hair fell over one eye as he grinned at her in his boyish, charming way. How they’d gazed at each other filled with love, unable to contain their happiness and excitement about the prospect of a life together.

If he wanted a life with you, why did he leave? Why can’t I forget him? It’s been a year. I’ve gotten on with my life, run the shop, kept busy but he just keeps creeping back in. Stop it, Chelsea, he’s gone, get over it.

Feeling fatigued, she closed her eyes and tried to block out the memories.

* * *

Lucas

Friday

Her hug was warm and he brimmed with comfort and love. She kissed his cheek and ruffled his hair. He scoffed a little but he loved her attention nevertheless. She waved goodbye, her eyes filled with motherly love as she told him not to be late.

As her face began to fade, the house disappeared and as he spun around, he realised where he was. He rushed to where she lay crumpled on the floor, her blood so dark it looked black. Her hazel eyes stared lifeless while he held her cold hand. His clothes became soaked with her blood as he drew her close. He hoped in vain her heart would still beat or her eyes would fill with warmth. He never wanted to let her go, even as the kind voices urged him to do so. He didn’t want them to take his mother away.

Lucas jolted upright, bathed in sweat. The dreams had returned after years of silence, the horror re-emerging. The memories fresh as though it happened yesterday. His chest ached and his eyes stung. He breathed deeply, trying to slow down his rapid beating heart.

Now that his dreams were haunting him again, he began to doubt, for the first time since receiving his badge, his capacity to continue with the case. He was beginning to lose focus, his edge. When conscious he could escape but now the nightmares had returned and sleep was no longer his friend.

Chapter 4

Hope

Saturday

The sun streamed through the window and the birds chirped their morning songs. Chelsea sat up and stretched languidly. She gazed out the window and the colourful spacious back garden greeted her with its assortment of annuals and perennials along with the numerous hedges edging the yard. Pottering around in the garden with Sarah and Charlotte would be just the therapy she needed today. Filled with sudden enthusiasm, Chelsea went down the hall to shower.

The smell of waffles and pancakes intoxicated her as she descended the stairs. As she followed her nose, she heard her mum singing along with the radio blasting from the bench and smiled.

She spotted Hayden first, slouching on a stool at the breakfast counter, scoffing down a pile of pancakes. Charlotte sat in her pyjamas next to him, drinking coffee, and attempting to wake up.

Her pa and dad were sitting at the table discussing issues from the newspaper and not agreeing. Sarah swung her hips in time to the music, which accompanied her humming and singing as she flipped pancakes at the stove. Chelsea grinned at the welcoming scene.

“Well this is a sight for sore eyes,” Chelsea said as she entered the kitchen.

She was greeted by her family in various fashions.

Chelsea slid onto the stool beside Charlotte. When her stomach growled she discovered she was as hungry as her brother appeared to be and devoured her awaiting breakfast.

“Thanks, Mum, that was great.”

“You’re welcome, dear. Why don’t you head out to the garden while I clean up in here?”

“What are you up to today, Charlotte?” asked Chelsea turning to her not quite awake sister.

“Give me another half an hour and I’ll help you.”

“Good, we can catch up some more. What about you, Hads?”

“What?” he said glancing up from - was that more pancakes? “Um, I have to do some study otherwise I can’t go to the movies tonight with Josh,” he mumbled looking at Sarah with distaste.

“Don’t look at me like that, Hayden. The rules were the same for the girls.”

“You bet they were,” Charlotte grumbled.

“I’d better get started, then. It looks like you two have been a bit neglectful of the garden lately.”

Chelsea’s mind drifted back to Wes again as she attacked the garden and pulled out stubborn weeds. She remembered him doting on her as she completed the very same tasks. He’d fetched her drinks, wiped her sweaty brow and lovingly made and brought her lunch. She thought they’d been so happy together.

They’d spent the afternoon hours chatting in relaxed comfort until she’d finally, after almost three years, asked about his family. He’d never spoken of any living relatives and she’d thought, now they were engaged, she ought to know this much about him. When the subject was broached he’d become very touchy so she hadn’t asked again.

Wes had always been awestruck by the Summerville’s wealth and rightly so, she supposed. She wondered whether this had anything to do with his family. She’d received a privileged life but never took anything for granted and understood how fortunate she was. Chelsea, Charlotte and Hayden never went without or wanted for anything. Her entire family had and still worked hard. Her parents and her grandparents before them were dedicated to providing the best possible upbringing they could for their children. Chelsea was well aware of how daunting it could be to some.

Many people over the years resented or were jealous of her birthright and while at school the taunts were prevalent. Chelsea was often hurt by the derision, nonetheless it made her more determined to go out on her own and rely less on her parents. Despite the fact that her parents owned the house where Chelsea and Elle lived, she insisted on paying her half of the rent. She knew them to be proud of her independence and her need to pay her own way, although they didn’t want or need her to.

When Charlotte and Sarah joined her, Chelsea shook away the painful memories and settled into the tasks ahead. The women spent the remainder of the fine, warm day catching up and Chelsea began to feel lighter in her heart. Being around her family always lifted her spirits. As usual, Charlotte did more talking than weeding and Chelsea was warmed by the familiarity of her perpetual entertainment.

That night, exhausted after a day in the garden and full after a nice dinner with numerous debates, the girls settled in the large sitting room, with a bottle of wine and their favourite movies.

Hayden completed his studies as promised and had gone to the movies. Harold and Bradley had settled in the study for the evening. It was just as it had always been. Chelsea thought perhaps the last of her scars were finally beginning to heal.

* * *

Lucas

Saturday

Lucas couldn’t sleep again, afraid of what the night would bring. His mind swirled with images of their lifeless bodies. The familiarity of the case was troubling him and sleepless nights were doing little to help.

He considered blocking out the images which were refusing to leave him alone with a sexy brunette. Lucas wondered whether getting up and going out to pick up any random girl to occupy his mind and fill his bed would help. He couldn’t remember the last girl he’d brought home to his near-empty apartment when he thought a roll in the hay might relieve some stress.

He finally decided against the idea as another girl with a name he wouldn’t remember or would never see again would be a pointless waste of energy. Besides they usually wanted to experience the re-run and he was not in the mood to deal with any strings or scorned women. He couldn’t be bothered to be polite as he refused a second round. He was too tired to be nice.

Did he crave someone to share his life and burdens with, or was he just lonely? With haste he shook off the whimsical notions. He didn’t get involved. Being too close to anyone, and then losing them, hurt way too much.

Wandering around his barren apartment like a lost child, Lucas considered a walk to the corner shop, falling back on the old habit. Cigarettes brought the burn to his lungs, brought the physical pain which masked the emotional one, even if was only for a few minutes. Lucas decided against this too. He’d kicked that habit and wanted to leave it behind, so he tried the next best thing.

First, he did push-ups till his chest burned and the sweat stung his eyes. Turning over he did crunches until the pain washed over him and all he could think and feel was the ache. Chin-ups and more push-ups followed until his body protested and sweat drenched his skin. It didn’t help. Nothing seemed to stem the hollowness in his chest, the empty feeling as though something was missing. He was used to feeling numb and for years had stumbled through his life without feeling.

An icy shower prolonged the ache in his muscles but didn’t alleviate the empty hole in his soul. Did he really want to be alone? His thoughts drifted back to the possibility of letting someone into his life, so he stuck his head under the cold water and buried his longing.

Fatigued, Lucas fell into bed, attempting to clear his mind and obtain some much needed rest. But he knew it would simply bring the demons.

* * *

Sunday

After having breakfast the following morning, the sisters decided to do some window shopping. Neither Chelsea nor Charlotte could ever say no to a relaxing Sunday, walking the streets and perusing the local wares.

“So how’s your love life?” Charlotte asked in her typical inquisitive way.

“Fine thanks.”

“Meaning you have none, right?

“I don’t have the time or inclination. I have family, Bloom and friends. I don’t need anything else.”

“Chelsea hasn’t it been a year? Just get over it already.”

“It has nothing to do with Wesley. I’m just not interested,” Chelsea said a little too bitingly. “Oh, Sylvia’s shop looks great. I love the bag in the window. It would go great with my brown boots.”

“Yeah, it’s great. I get the hint, Chels. I’ll butt out.”

“Thanks. So who’s your new guy?”

“Well, he’s not mine yet, but give me time. His name’s Scott and he’s in one of my classes. He’s really smart and so cute. I can’t believe I didn’t notice him before.”

“You were pretty wrapped up in Evan.”

“Yeah I suppose, but I don’t usually miss someone so hot.”

They both laughed, which turned into a fit of giggles and Chelsea couldn’t remember the last time she had laughed so hard with her sister. The rest of the afternoon was spent catching up and walking through the quiet streets.

* * *

Later that day, Chelsea sat in the study reading her favourite book from the collection when her Pa sought her out. When he sat in the chair opposite, she closed her book and waited. She knew this meant there was something he wanted to say. Harold had been a psychiatrist before retiring many years before and Chelsea appreciated and trusted his advice, as did the rest of the family.

“Chelsea, you still don’t appear to be your old self yet.”

“No, Pa, I’m not quite there yet. I still miss Wes. I realise it’s been a year but I loved him. I wanted to marry him more than anything in the world. I don’t understand why he left and like he did.”

“Chelsea, his soul was troubled. I don’t believe he would have made you happy, not long term anyway.”

“Yes, he was sometimes very edgy, but it added to his charm.”

“Time heals, Chelsea, and I believe you will find the right man for you.”

“I thought that was Wes.”

“No, I don’t believe that to be so. You are a beautiful, sweet, lovable girl and you will know when the time comes.”

“I hope so, Pa. You know it has always been hard for me to trust. There have been a lot of people in the past who only befriended me because of all this.”

“Yes it is hard to know whether people’s intentions are always the right ones. You can’t close yourself off just in case though.”

“I’m scared of being hurt again.”

“I know you are, but we just want to see you happy. It’s time to let go.” He smiled and left her with her book.

Chelsea wondered whether her Pa wasn’t right after all. She had always blamed herself for Wes’ walking out on her without a word of explanation. There must have been something she had done. She must have made him feel bad in some way, maybe asked too many questions about his family that one time. It must have been her fault.

But maybe it was more that Wesley’s soul had been troubled, as Pa had put it. Maybe he had been intimidated by her family and become envious, resentful, angry. Had he only been after her money and walked out when he realised she was too independent to take money from her family. She had always believed that it had been something she’d done, that she hadn’t been enough, but perhaps there had been more to it.

Either way, it was time to stop the self-pity. Maybe Wes wasn’t her only chance at love after all.

* * *

Monday

“Well the cause of death is the same. Bled out from a cut throat,” Lucas read from Kate Miller’s report. “Ligature marks are consistent with being tied at the wrists and ankles with what appears to be a nylon rope, which of course can be bought anywhere. Her injuries were inflicted using some type of thin blade once again.”

“The cuts were all made over the period they were missing and there are signs of multiple sexual assaults. This guy is patient.” Maggie paused. “The question still remains about the ID too. How is he getting his hands on it when their handbags are left at home?”

“I still think he is knocking them out first or threatening them with a weapon, and then takes the ID with him.”

“Yeah, maybe or he somehow gets his hands on it before. Something we need to consider. So where do we go from here - Kate’s friends?”

“Yeah, I think so. Libby’s friend. What was her name?” he asked Maggie, who looked over Libby’s report in front of her.

“Kelly Bradshaw.”

“What did she say about Libby’s new man?”

“Kelly told me according to Libby he was charming and handsome but shy and that was why she hadn’t introduced him to anyone. She thought Libby seemed pretty keen.”

“Maybe Kate met the same guy and he used the same excuses. Obviously he didn’t want anyone to meet him so no-one could identify him.”

“Looks that way. I’ll go through missing persons now and find all girls around twenty-five who match the victims’ description. If our man is true to form, he may have already grabbed another.”

Lucas nodded in agreement before returning to Kate’s file. He looked up suddenly.

“Did Libby have trace evidence on her body which came back as flour?”

“Um,” replied Maggie once again scanning the report. “Yes, a flour substance from transference, either from his hands or the location.”

“I’ll check out all abandoned warehouses and factories that would’ve used flour.”

Lucas began his search hoping there would only be a few to check out. The database located four possible warehouses within the metro area but spread out over the city. Two were in bread and baked goods production, the other two were flour mills. None of the locations was in close proximity to the two scenes where the bodies had been dumped. It would take a while to conduct a search.

“Lucas, I’ve found two possible missing girls who fit the description. Maybe we should talk to the people who reported them missing, see if they had a mystery guy. We might get a description, something.”

She proceeded to tell him their names and last known address.

“One of the factories is nearby. We can check it out on the way. Maybe we’ll get lucky.”

* * *

When it came time for Chelsea to leave on Monday, Sarah started with her standard lines.

“You should come home more often.”

“You work too hard.”

“We just miss you so much.”

The more Chelsea protested the more it continued. After a final goodbye, she headed off on her journey back home. She used the drive to reflect on the last three days and how much better she felt. It was time to move on, to stop wallowing and wipe away the painful memories. Was it pure loneliness that caused her to dwell in the past? Was this why she couldn’t let go? Did she miss Wesley or just the idea of him? If only she could forget his beautiful face.

Three and a half hours later, after a delay getting back into the city, Chelsea pulled into her drive to discover the house dark. She decided Elle was probably asleep and forgot to leave the light on or, more than likely, she was out. Elle spent many nights away from home so Chelsea wasn’t concerned.

After lugging her suitcase up to her room, she decided to sit and reflect on the balcony, her favourite haven. While gazing at the lights over the city and listening to the hum of city commotion, she vowed to give herself a new beginning.

Chapter 5

Missing

Tuesday

Chelsea woke feeling refreshed and ready to make some changes in her life, starting with Bloom. Naturally, she would continue to work with diligence, as she always did, however, she resolved to open her life to new opportunities and stop burying herself in work.

After showering, she swept her hair up into a neat pony tail and wondered whether Elle was home. She looked out towards her room to discover the door still closed.

She's probably asleep.

Chelsea hurried through breakfast and a kick-start coffee, knowing there was a lot to get through today. She walked into the garage to discover Elle’s car parked next to hers.

She must be home - her car’s here. Was it here last night? Chelsea couldn’t remember. Of course, she’s in bed, don’t worry.

On the drive over to Bloom, she tried to go over the arrangements to be completed but her thoughts kept drifting back to Elle. Should she have checked on her? I’ll ring when I can.

When she pulled up at the back of the shop, her delivery driver, Gavin, arrived in his van.

“Morning, Chelsea,” he called as he hopped out. “Did you have a nice weekend?”

“Very relaxing thanks, Gav. How was your weekend away?”

“Great. It was nice having the extra day off with my family,” he replied with a grateful smile.

“They all well?”

“Yes, they’re growing up fast. I’ll start unloading so you can get started.”

“Thanks.”

While Gavin loaded the van, she prepared arrangements for sale and display. Bloom, her home away from home, filled Chelsea with contentment. It was a quaint shop with displays lining each wall and a counter in the rear. Although the lighting was low, it didn’t detract from the overall visibility. It merely set the ambiance. The walls, painted in cream, were adorned with hanging baskets containing flowering plants which were also for sale.

The large front window displayed her favourite collections of the day. ‘Bloom’ was painted across the top with artistic flair and bordered by a creeping vine. In the back storage area were two large industrial fridges to keep all her flowers fresh. Being surrounded by the wonderful aromas and colours always soothed and lifted her spirits. As she opened the front door, Mrs. Nelson, a regular customer, breezed through the door.

“Good morning, dear,” she said. “What have you got for me today?”

“This one over here,” Chelsea replied collecting an arrangement from one of the vases. “I had you in mind when I put this together.”

“Oh, it’s perfect darling. The Watsons are coming for dinner tonight and Susan is always envious of my table arrangements, but I never let her in on my little secret - you.”

“Thanks, Mrs. Nelson, I think.”

“Oh, but if I told Susan, it could bring more business for you. Well sorry, dear, I’m keeping you for myself.”

“I’m flattered.”

“Well must rush, lots to do.” She went out the door the same way she came in.

Chelsea’s day kept her busy, preparing the deliveries whilst serving new and regular customers. Each time she went to ring home, someone came in or the phone rang. For once, she wished she wasn’t so busy. The only welcome relief was that it allowed her no time at all to think about anything.

Stop thinking about him, Chelsea! He’s gone! Like Charlotte said, it’s been a year!

She nodded her head to conclude those thoughts once and for all and finished up for the day. It was on the way home that she began to wonder again about Elle and chastised herself for not finding the time to call her over the course of the day.

When she arrived home and entered the garage, Elle’s old beat up car - suiting her unfussy lifestyle - was still parked in her spot.

She ran up the stairs and called out to her friend.

“Elle,” she called again. “Are you here?”

The door to Elle’s room was closed as before. She knocked before entering. Her room was empty, the bed made, and the blinds closed.

This is strange…

Chelsea fished her phone out of her bag and dialled Elle’s number. She heard the familiar upbeat tone coming from the room she’d just left. This is when she noticed Elle’s much-loved and much-used handbag sitting on her dresser.

Maybe she went for a walk or something. I’ll give her an hour. Maybe her mum picked her up and she’s forgotten to ring. She’s done that before.

After the hour passed, Chelsea located Elle’s address book and decided to call everyone she knew, starting with Elle’s mum.

“Hi, Mrs. Sheridan, it’s Chelsea. How are you?”

“Well, dear, and you?”

“Good. Um, I was wondering if Elle’s with you.”

“No I haven’t spoken to her since around nine on Saturday morning. I was surprised she called so early.”

“Did she mention if she was going anywhere?”

“Yes, she told me a young man was picking her up to take her to breakfast. I guess this was why she was up. What’s the matter? You’re beginning to worry me.”

“It’s nothing, I hope, but I don’t know if Elle came home last night. I’m sure she’s fine, just forgotten to ring.”

“Hmm, she has been known to do that ...”

“I’m sure that’s all it is, that she forgot to call, you know how she is?” Chelsea joked. She felt a little uneasy now.

“Unfortunately, yes, this is not the first time she’s forgotten to ring but she’s always been alright so far, thankfully.”

“I promise I’ll have her call when she gets home. I didn’t mean to worry you.”

Chelsea called her other friends, the ones Elle usually went out with - Chelsea didn’t go out much - however no-one had seen her.

It was quite late now and she considered going to the police station to report her missing but thought better of it. There was probably an explanation. Elle had done this before. Chelsea recalled the time when she met a backpacker from overseas, France she thought, and had disappeared for an entire weekend with him. At first, Chelsea was sick with worry but, after being absent two days, Elle had turned up glowing and happy. She told Chelsea she wouldn’t worry her like that again but, Elle being Elle, Chelsea knew she quite possibly could. Her vivacious energy and total absorption in her latest mission or conquest determined that she mostly didn’t keep her promises.

Chelsea never begrudged Elle for this. Her passion and zest for life made her who she was. If she didn’t turn up by morning, she would go to the police station. She could open a little later than usual tomorrow. Chelsea decided it best to go to bed as there wasn’t any more she could do right now, but her unease didn’t lift.

* * *

I think it’s time to go and see what the spoilt bitch is up to.

Does she know her friend is gone yet?

Does she care?

She doesn’t care about anyone but herself, with all her luxuries.

I watch her every day.

Ah here she is now. Well, we look a little concerned today.

Don’t fret. You won’t have to wait long. Soon you’ll know where she is.

It’s almost time to go and collect up my next practice run.

They are sooo easy. All I have to do is turn on the charm.

They always open the door for me, they know and trust me. Desperate fools!

* * *

Perched on a stool at ‘Clive’s’, Lucas nursed his third beer and considered ordering another shot. The pleasantly numb feeling that followed the buzz began to spread through his veins and he welcomed it. The thought of returning to his empty apartment after work held little appeal, so he’d decided to bury his troubles at the bar.

It had been several years since any case had affected him this way. The familiarity of the murders stirred up buried memories. Even after all this time, a simple reminder caused the pain to return. Not being able to sleep and having an empty apartment weren’t helping. A drink-induced stupor could solve that problem, for at least tonight anyway.

“Excuse me,” a female voiced invaded his melancholy. “Is this seat taken?” Very original, sweetheart.

“No,” he told her, his eyes not leaving his near-empty bottle.

“Why so glum?”

Lucas turned and found just what he needed to occupy his mind. Long dark curls, small trim figure, large brown eyes and a pretty smile.

“Tough week,” he told her.

“You’re way too cute to be sad or even alone for that matter.”

He groaned internally. She knew all the lines. This would be too easy.

“Thanks.” He offered her his winning smile and sealed the deal. “You’re way too pretty to be chatting up men in bars.”

Chapter 6

Who’s Next?

Wednesday

Lucas opened his eyes and found himself in a strange bed with the remnants of too many drinks fogging his mind. He turned to find the girl still asleep beside him and he gave silent thanks. Perhaps he could sneak away without having to make excuses or showing any pretence. He didn’t plan on seeing her again and couldn’t remember her name.

Ignoring the guilt and the pounding in his head, he dressed with haste and crept out of her apartment. On the street, he tried to get his bearings so he could call a taxi and make his way home.

As he waited for his ride, he attempted to recall the details of the previous night but, as always, it was the same. No sparks flew. They’d gone through the motions until they were both satisfied, and crashed. Nothing memorable there, as always. Just the way he liked it. No strings meant no loss, which meant no pain.

After a refreshing cold shower and two cups of strong coffee he was ready to face the day.

* * *

All night Chelsea listened for noises signifying Elle’s arrival home. Every little sound prompted Chelsea to climb out of bed and check, fruitlessly, to see if Elle had returned. As a result she slept poorly, leaving her head feeling thick from the many interruptions to her slumber.

She got up and staggered yet again to Elle’s bedroom in the hope that perhaps she hadn’t heard her and she was in fact home after all, but her room was still empty. Filled with dread and anxiety for her best friend, tears pricked Chelsea’s eyes as she tried to convince herself that everything would be all right.

After taking a quick shower and throwing on the first thing she could find, she drove as fast as the law would allow to the police station, consumed with worry. How long had Elle been missing? Chelsea couldn’t be sure. She walked towards the station, filled with irritation for not having done this sooner. Meanwhile her fear continued to build, fast.

As she went to open the door to the station, it came away in her hand and she found herself face-to-face - well more like face-to-chest - with someone leaving the precinct.

She looked up and up, to set eyes on a tall, broad-shouldered man whom she assumed was a policeman. His dark wavy hair was longish and dishevelled. His chiselled, handsome face held an intense expression and the look in his hazel eyes was … she didn’t know what that was. He looked almost dazed.

He seemed for a moment to stare at her before his face become blank and he cleared his throat.

“Is there something I can help you with? I’m a detective here.” His voice was deep and soothing. Chelsea realised she was the one now staring at him. Those intense hazel eyes bewildered her already uneasy mind as she struggled to piece together her words.

Lucas gazed down into her face. Lust rushed through him and his mind went blank. Only one lingering thought remained. Wow! He gave her another once over and his eyes become locked to the vulnerable expression on her face. Wow!

Eyes the colour of emeralds peered up at him. Her long, dark hair fell in waves past her shoulders. Her smooth, milky skin was calling him to reach out and stroke her face. She was petite. She was exquisite. He felt an overwhelming need to protect her, a concept foreign to him. Her anxious expression brought forth feelings long since forgotten. He wanted to grab her and … Sheer electricity.

“I...I...hope so. I’m worried about my friend, my roommate. She seems to have gone missing.” Her voice was so soft he almost didn’t hear her.

Great. He needn’t let her go just yet. “Come with me. We’ll write up a report,” he suggested, as his professional radar switched itself on - another missing girl. At least that was still working. He could scarcely concentrate in her presence. Thankfully, the previous day the two missing girls resembling the recent victims had returned home unharmed. Was this another false alarm?

“Um, thanks,” she murmured.

She followed his lanky frame towards a room down the hall. Everything inside her was on fire. His broad, strong shoulders and amazing eyes did incredible things to her. She suddenly found it difficult to breathe, or to stand.

He’s just a guy, Chelsea. You’ve been alone too long.

Still, try as she might, she couldn’t ignore whatever this feeling was. Emotions she couldn’t recall ever experiencing before flurried inside her like a swarm of tiny butterflies. The confidence oozing from him rendered her incapable of rational thought.

Totally amazed by the impact she was having on every one of his senses, Lucas attempted desperately to get himself back under control. She’s just another beautiful girl. He saw them every day. But, he couldn’t bury his urgent need to protect her, which was the totally opposite reaction to what usually occurred when he saw a pretty face.

As they walked into the interview room, his hand shook as he gestured for her to take a seat. Lucas took out a pen clumsily, placed a notepad on the table and sat opposite her.

“What’s your friend’s name?”

“Elle Sheridan.”

“Elle?”

“Elle.”

This was stupid. Get a hold of yourself.

“When did you last see Elle?”

“Friday night, about six, a—“

“You’re only reporting it now?” He cut her off with a gruff tone, overcompensating for what he would really have liked to have said to her.

Lucas observed her jolt back as though she’d been struck, before a frost entered her expression.

“As I was about to say,” she replied with a definite briskness after composing herself, “I saw her last Friday night, about six, as I was leaving to go to my parents’ house for the weekend. I didn’t return until Monday night and I wasn’t sure if she was home. It was late and her bedroom door was closed. She usually leaves a light on for me, so I did wonder if she was home or not, as the house was dark.”

“You didn’t talk to her over the weekend, while you were away?” Chelsea noted his tone was still brusque and his eyes had darkened by several shades.

“No I didn’t. We don’t check up on each other,” she replied in the same cool tone.

“So you don’t know how long she’s been missing?”

“No, I don’t. When I got home Monday night, I wasn’t sure if she was home and even if she wasn’t, I didn’t find it too unusual. Elle often stays away overnight. The only thing that was strange was that her car was there, but I thought she must have got a lift with somebody else.”

“You didn’t think it was strange she could’ve been gone for two days?”

“Not at first, but when I found she wasn’t home this morning, I was concerned, which is why I’m here now. I called her phone last night and this was when I found her handbag in her room. I was going to report it then but, like I said, it has happened before.”

Lucas stiffened as a chill tickled its way up his spine. This was beginning to sound familiar.

“What does she look like?”

“She’s tall and blonde, with blue eyes.”

He breathed out with relief. Wrong description but still it didn’t pay to discount her completely.

The relief broke his concentration. Is that her that smells so good? What do I need to ask her? I can’t think straight. Snap out of it, Hudson.

“I’ll log the details into missing persons and they’ll investigate this further.” He had to move her out as quick as possible before he felt tempted to touch her.

“Is that it?” she said. Her small full lips pursed, sending Lucas’ heart into a flurry.

God she’s incredible. Lucas steadied himself. “Yes, that’s all we can do for now. In the meantime, contact everyone she knows. She could be staying with someone and have forgotten to phone.”

A delicate dark eyebrow arched and a slight smile touched her lips. “Without her bag and purse, Detective?”

Lucas frowned and internally kicked himself. “It’s possible. I’m sorry this isn’t my area. I can only enter your statement. A missing person detective will follow it up.” Not my area? What are you on about? You’re a cop, Lucas! Everything is your area. He needed to get away from her. Trying to string a thought together was becoming impossible. He was awestruck, something he couldn’t remember being in a long time and never this powerfully.

“Fine,” she said standing with haste. “Thank you for your time.” She strode out of the room and down the hall.

Lucas sat mesmerised for a moment, attempting to recover from meeting the most beautiful girl he’d ever seen. Sure he’d seen and met a lot of pretty girls but they had never rendered him completely hopeless before. He hadn’t even interviewed her properly. Being so close to her was beyond intoxicating. He hadn’t asked her name. He hadn’t told her his. He hadn’t asked her enough questions. Was he going to jeopardise this investigation because he’d lost his head over a passing infatuation?

Shoving his fanciful thoughts aside, Lucas considered for a moment the possibility Elle had been kidnapped by the same perp, even though her description didn’t match the pattern. Could the killer have changed MO? He’d better fill Maggie in on the details, it could be important.

Incensed with himself, Lucas went back to his desk to speak with his partner. He slammed down into his chair, disrupting Maggie from her note taking.

“What’s eating you? I thought you were going to grab us some breakfast.”

“I got side tracked. Another girl has gone missing.”

“What, who, when?”

“She’s blonde.”

“So? Maybe it isn’t just about hair colour. Was there anything that was the same as the others?”

“Yeah, her personal belongings are still at home.”

“Well what else? Is there a mystery guy? What?”

“I don’t know,” he mumbled.

“What?” She frowned.

“I got distracted.” He wouldn’t look up at Maggie and continued to stare down at his notes.

“Distracted?”

“Yeah, I was thinking with the wrong head.”

Maggie laughed.

“What’s so funny?”

“You. I thought you were this tough, impenetrable brick wall.”

“She was pretty, I haven’t been laid for a while, no big deal,” he lied, hoping to avoid further questions. He knew this was not the reason for his reaction but couldn’t understand exactly why he’d responded as he had.

“I didn’t think anyone or anything got to you, well not on first sight anyway.”

“You did.” He lifted his eyes from his notes and offered a slight smile. “Look, I fucked up, it won’t happen again.”

“Ok,” she smirked raising an eyebrow. “I believe you.”

“So how about we concentrate on the case at hand and not my lack of sex life. I think we should check out the other warehouses seeing the first one was a bust.”

“Sure, I don’t think we can rule out this missing girl. Did you even get her name?”

“Yes, Elle Sheridan.” He glared at her.

“My mistake.” She lifted her hands in a gesture of surrender. “Let’s go then.”

They headed out and this time Lucas went in Maggie’s car. He needed time to collect himself. Maggie waited a few moments before bringing up the subject again.

“Did you get Elle’s address? Maybe we can re-interview ... what was her name?”

Lucas paused. “I don’t know.”

“You didn’t even ask that?”

“I told you, I wasn’t concentrating. Besides we can look up her address.”

“I suppose. This isn’t like you. Are you alright?”

“Yeah, just not sleeping well.”

“The dreams?”

“Yeah, how did you know?”

“You’re distracted and you look uneasy. I’ve seen the look before.”

“It’ll pass, it always does. I’ll follow up the missing girl in the morning.”

“Ok, but I’m always here if you need me.”

“Yeah, I know, thanks, Mags. Let’s just hope the missing girl has nothing to do with our case.”

Chapter 7

Love and Confusion

Wednesday

Furious, Chelsea strode down the hallway and slammed out the front door. The nerve of that detective. When she realised he didn’t ask her name and hadn’t given her his, her annoyance grew. What kind of detective was he anyway? She wondered whether he’d taken her seriously at all. Perhaps she should go back and talk to someone who would listen or at least care. Right now, though, she was livid and needed to calm down.

Chelsea didn’t intend to open the shop today. However, after her encounter with the uncaring detective, and with Elle missing, she needed somewhere she could relax and find some comfort. The one place she could do that was at Bloom.

Sick with worry and anxiety she drove towards her sanctuary. On the way she considered going home. What if Elle were to phone or return home? But would sitting around waiting for her to return really help?

Having tossed the issue this way and that, Chelsea eventually decided to drive on towards Bloom and resolved to check in over the day. What else could she do?

* * *

After investigating the other three warehouses and finding them vacant, the detectives decided to finish up for the day and start over in the morning. On the drive home, Lucas wondered which direction to take. The lack of evidence intensified his frustration.

The report on Kate Miller’s house would be completed by morning and he prayed for a fingerprint match or perhaps some kind of trace evidence, anything that would lead them somewhere closer. They needed a suspect, and fast, before they had another victim. Could this missing girl be the next one? He sincerely hoped not but as there weren’t any other missing women who fitted the description it was a possibility.

He decided they would have to go over everything again. They were missing something. Where were they meeting this guy? How were these girls connected? Lucas needed to refocus and obtain a clear head for the morning so sleep was his number one priority.

* * *

When Lucas walked into his apartment, a sudden sense of loneliness overcame him, something which was occurring more and more often lately. His home, small with sparse furniture, suited his needs as he spent little time here. After having a quick shower in an attempt to free his mind of circling thoughts and haunting visions, he collapsed into bed. He closed his eyes and attempted to block out the memories tormenting him. He tossed and turned but the images remained and sleep became impossible.

As he pushed aside his demons, milky soft skin and big green eyes swept over him. What was it about her that had him so stupefied? He conjured up briefly in his mind a parade of some of the many beautiful women he had known, and even slept with, but there was something more about this girl, something much stronger which tugged at him and he didn’t know what it was or why. He couldn’t allow these feelings to push through. He didn’t get close to anybody, especially to anyone related to a case. He’d made that mistake in his first year as detective and he had paid a heavy price. Anyone linked to an investigation in any way was off limits. Even if this hadn’t become his cardinal rule from all those years ago, the painful reality of losing loved ones deterred him from making any sort of commitment. He never wanted to love and then grieve again.

Giving up on rest, he grabbed the victims’ files from the side table and began to read. The flour trace was important. He could feel it, but how? Was it being transferred from where they were being held? It didn’t appear to be coming from the locations they had searched and there weren’t any other abandoned warehouses that fit the bill. So the killer could be taking them out of town or to a house filled with flour, but who has that much on their premises? Lucas didn’t want to think about the endless possibilities.

The other option could be the perp was a baker or chef of some kind and transmitted it with his hands. How many bakeries, cafés and restaurants were located in the city? Far too many to interview every person in every possible occupation. He grunted in frustration, there were too many options to consider and investigate. Time was what they needed to follow all the potential leads and time was what they had little of.

This wasn’t the only troublesome thought. The words SPOILT BITCH, why those words? Envy could be a contributing factor and driving force but both victims weren’t wealthy. Were they spoilt in another way? How?

He threw the folders down on the bed. Going in circles wasn’t getting them any closer. It all came down to Kate’s autopsy report and search of her house. They needed more evidence, something new.

Sleep was fitful for Lucas that night as he dreamed of emerald eyes, milky skin and bloody throats.

* * *

Maggie walked into her snug two bedroom cottage. The simple furnishings and quiet ambience suited Maggie and Steve. Being busy cops, and seeing the horrors they did, enhanced their need to come home to a sanctuary.

Maggie was welcomed by a delicious aroma emanating from the kitchen and knew Steve was preparing something mouth-watering.

“Hey, I’m home,” she called out.

“In the kitchen.”

“Smells great, babe. I’m famished.”

“Please sit down, my lady, and I’ll bring dinner to you.”

“Oh well, thank you, Sir,” she grinned.

Steve could always sense when she needed looking after. Her knight in shining armour, the most gorgeous man alive, was tall dark and handsome.

“Tough day, Mags?”

“You could say tough week. We’re getting nowhere with this case.”

“You’ll get him, you always do.”

He kissed her tenderly before placing her dinner and a glass of wine on the table in front of her. “I love you.”

She smiled.

She started to tuck into the meal he had lovingly prepared. “Speaking of love, some girl got to Lucas today.”

“No way! That man is made of steel.”

“It appears he isn’t after all. He questioned a girl whose roommate is missing and it might have helped with our investigation but he froze up instead. It was like he couldn’t get her out of there quick enough.”

“He’s so thorough.”

“Not today,” she grinned.

“Well I guess everyone needs a bit of love.”

“Oh, you’re such a romantic, Steve.”

“I know,” he said lifting her out of her chair. When he kissed her again it was with absolute passion. “That is because I’m married to an amazing woman,” he told her before guided her toward their bedroom.

* * *

When Chelsea walked into the house, she immediately checked to see if Elle had been home. Finding Elle’s room eerily untouched, Chelsea walked towards the kitchen, her heart heavy. She remembered Mrs. Sheridan and how worried she would be, so she phoned her to tell her about reporting Elle’s continued absence to the police. Hearing the fear in her voice only intensified Chelsea’s anxiety. She sighed, wondering what to do next.

She considered dinner but the thought turned her stomach, so she went upstairs instead. She sat out on the balcony and thought about Elle. This only agitated her all over again recalling that detective and his lack of … anything! He was sexy though, and those eyes, so enticing. He definitely sent her heart fluttering. His rude and unsympathetic manner, on the other hand, was inexcusable. First thing in the morning, she would go back to the station and make someone listen to her this time.

Worry consumed her as she remembered happy times with Elle. Chelsea prayed her disappearance was like all the other times when she’d spontaneously spent days with a man or stayed with a friend. Doubts undermined her fervent attempts to believe in every positive scenario. Chelsea couldn’t remember Elle being without her handbag and phone during any of those absences. Hot tears crept down her face as she tried to push aside her worst fear, that Elle was gone forever.

Oh Elle where are you?

* * *

It’s now time for her to say goodbye to her life. Nothing personal, Blondie, but I need to make it perfect.

Will she fight like Libby or will she accept it like Kate? She is feisty this one so I guess she’ll fight to the end.

* * *

As I thought, she fought death. She kicked and hit out as far as her restraints would allow until she gurgled her last breath. I know this one will hurt her and she will understand loss. Just like my loss.

She will soon know what it’s like to have nothing, like I had nothing. She would never have known what it was like to wear old dirty clothes that were too small and have everyone laugh. To understand how it feels to eat little and always be alone. To have a father who hates you and a mother who left you. What it’s like to live in the worst house, in the worst neighbourhood.

She never had to do anything for what she had. No, not Daddy’s Princess.

I cannot wait to see her blood flow but I have to wait, more to rehearse on yet. I can hear the next one now in the other room. She’s awake and calling for help. There is no-one here to help you, Lindsay.

Now I need to take Blondie to her final resting place. When I come back, I’ll have to start on you, Lindsay. Listen to your first screams and see how much of a fighter you are. Scream all you want, just like the others because no-one can hear.

Ah, there she is sitting out on the balcony. Is she wondering about her friend? Well she is watching the night sky now too just like you but unlike you, Blondie’s eyes are sightless forever.

Chapter 8

Gone

Thursday

The sound of the phone woke Lucas from another restless night. He bolted upright and rubbed his eyes before grabbing the phone.

Oh shit, what now? “Hudson.”

“Well he lives.”

“Morning, Carrie. It is morning, isn’t it?” he grumbled, picturing his sister on the other end of the phone, her auburn chin-length curls bobbing as she spoke, the same hazel eyes as his own filled with concern.

“Yes, grumpy, it’s just after seven. I haven’t heard from you for a week and was wondering if you were still with us.”

“I’ve been busy.”

“All work and no play, little brother.”

“Yeah I know but this case has been tough and we’re getting nowhere fast.”

“Are you ok? I saw the news and was wondering—“

“I’m fine,” he cut her off.

“Ok, Lucas, but I know how hard this must be for you.”

“It was a long time ago, Carrie. I can handle it. I believe I’ve told you this too many times before.”

“You know, I can’t help it. I worry about you.”

“You don’t have to, I’m all right,” he replied his voice softening. “How are the kids?”

“Same as always. Mabel lost another tooth. Tommy decided he could fly again so he took a leap off the kitchen bench and split his head.”

“Ouch, is he ok?”

“Yeah he’s fine, just like his uncle.”

“Ha ha, I miss them. I promise I’ll do something with them soon, when this case is over.”

“They miss you too and I’ll hold you to it.” Not finished grilling her brother she continued. “So, what else is bugging you?”

“Nothing.”

“No fooling me, brother, spill.”

“Ah, ok, I let someone get to me yesterday and didn’t do my job properly.”

“A girrrl,” she taunted.

“Shut up.”

“That’s not like you. She must have been something.”

“Look it was nothing. It won’t happen again.”

“There is nothing wrong with letting someone in Lucas. Nathan and the kids, they’re the best things that have ever happened to me, you know that.”

“Yeah well that’s you. My job keeps me busy. I don’t need anything else.”

“Oh Lucas …”

“Carrie, I’m fine. Please, it really is alright.”

“Very well, I’ll leave you alone.” She paused. “For now.”

Lucas laughed. “Thanks for your concern but I gotta get up and go to work.”

“Don’t work too hard. Love you.”

“Love you too.”

As he readied himself for the day, Lucas wondered if they would catch a break or find a lead today.

Maggie was at her desk when he came in and had a coffee waiting for him.

“Thanks, Maggie, what have we got?”

“CSI’s found little at Kate’s house, apart from fingerprints but there were no matches in the database and nothing else that seemed significant.”

“Damn.”

“But the ME found a blond hair on Kate, in one of the wounds on her chest.”

“Tell me we can use it for DNA comparison.”

“We just need to find someone to match to because, once again, we got no hit.”

Lucas’ phone interrupted them.

“Hudson.” While listening, he looked at Maggie and she watched as he paled. “We’ll be right there.”

“Don’t tell me.” Maggie spoke before Lucas could.

“Sorry, Mags but we’ve got another one.” Oh God, what if it’s the blonde? Lucas didn’t want to think about that prospect.

* * *

Lucas and Maggie arrived at the all too familiar scene, but whereas Libby and Kate had been discarded behind a warehouse, the latest victim was behind a small shop, albeit with the same dark, dank alley in the rear. As they strode towards the building, the familiar lump crept into Lucas’ throat.

Concentrate, Lucas, you’re a cop, you signed up for this. Focus!

They found the girl presented to them in the same manner as the others, naked and on her back, the same habitual words slashed onto her chest, the same cavernous throat. There were exceptions this time, though. She was neither a brunette nor short; she was tall and blonde. Lucas cursed as they walked toward the body.

“It might not be her.”

Lucas stared at Maggie for a moment. His gut told him it was.

“It’s her. I should’ve asked more questions. If I had, we might have found her in time.”

“We might not have either, Lucas. We still have no idea where this is happening or the motive for doing it, and we have zero suspects.”

“Yes but we could have interviewed people she knew, gone over her house, something.”

“Don’t beat yourself up. Let’s just collect what we can from this and find this prick.”

“Just give me a minute,” he mumbled and strode away.

“David, did you find her ID?” Maggie inquired.

“Yes, her name is Elle Sheridan. She lived just around the corner,” he replied passing the bagged ID to Maggie.

“Thanks, David, I think we should get onto this straight away. Let us know when you’re done and if you find anything new.”

“Will do.”

Maggie found Lucas standing at the front of the shop, smoking.

“I thought you quit.”

“I did but I just needed ... something. I got it from a uniform. I don’t really want it,” he said, butting it out.

“We have an address. Let’s go.”

Lucas hesitated.

“It’s not your fault,” she said. She stepped towards him to lay a reassuring hand on his shoulder. “She was only reported missing yesterday. There was no time to find her.”

Lucas looked at Maggie with sad eyes. “I just wish I’d done more.”

They drove the short distance to Elle’s house, which was literally around the corner. A welcoming two story house with a fragrant garden filled with bright flowers greeted them as they pulled up.

Lucas walked to the door, dread consuming him. Concentrate, Lucas, you have to keep your head.

Maggie knocked on the door and they heard a voice inside.

“Coming.”

The door opened and there standing before them was the girl whose face was still vividly etched into his memory.

“You,” she said her voice frigid. “What are you doing here? How did you find me … Oh no! Elle?”

Maggie glanced over at Lucas, who appeared to be lost for words.

“I’m Detective Johnson and this is Detective Hudson.”

“Please, is she ok?” She raised a shaking hand to her mouth.

“May I ask your name, Ma’am?”

“It’s Chelsea Summerville. Now tell me, please.”

“I’m sorry, Chelsea, but we found Elle murdered this morning.”

Chelsea’s knees buckled and Maggie stepped forward to catch her.

“Whoa there little lady, stay up,” she said and helped Chelsea over to the couch.

“Sorry, I’m ok. I’m just so shocked. I wasn’t expecting this. Well, maybe I was expecting it … I don’t know what I was expecting.” Chelsea placed her shaking hands into her lap and clasped them tight together.

“That’s ok, honey, we understand,” Maggie replied glancing at Lucas who stood rooted to a spot just inside the door.

“What happened?” Chelsea asked.

“We believe she was targeted by a serial killer we’ve been trying to track.”

“Oh.”

A shaky hand went to her mouth again.

“Are you up to answering a few questions?” Maggie asked.

Chelsea nodded.

“Now you mentioned to Detective Hudson that you didn’t know how long Elle had been missing. Is that correct?”

“Yes, I’d been away from Friday night and didn’t return until Monday. I wasn’t sure if she was home when I returned.”

“So it’s safe to say she could have been missing from Friday night onwards?”

“Yes, it’s quite possible.” She paused. “Actually no, when I rang Mrs. Sheridan she told me she’d spoken to Elle on Saturday morning.”

“Are Elle’s possessions here?”

“Yes, as I explained to Detective Hudson,” she said giving a fleeting look to Lucas, “I discovered her handbag and phone were still here when I tried to call her phone and it rang in her room.”

“Do you know if Elle was planning to have any visitors over while you were away or if she planned to go out?”

“Elle goes out most weekends.” Chelsea offered a brief smile. “She mentioned inviting this new guy she’d met over for dinner.”

Maggie glared at Lucas, who still stood in the same spot.

“Do you know his name?”

“I don’t remember her mentioning one.”

“Do you have any questions, Lucas?” Maggie enquired.

Lucas looked over at Maggie and Chelsea. He was upset with himself for not doing his job the previous day. Seeing her again had tied his tongue again too.

She might still be alive if you had been thinking about the investigation and not your pants. It’s time to get back to business. Where is that hard tough cop when I need him? You can do this.

He shook his head to clear his mind of lustful thoughts and pushed aside his annoyance.

“Chelsea,” he began, “you don’t know who this man is?”

“No,” she replied glaring at him as he sat across from her. “I never met him.”

“So you don’t know what he looks like then?” he snapped.

“No, I just said I’d never met him.”

“Elle never told you anything about him?”

“No, she didn’t, which was strange for her but I knew she would introduce me if he became important to her.” She paused to wipe away the tears spilling over the rims of her eyes and returned her hand to clasp the other. “She ... liked to keep her options open, so to speak.” She looked from one detective to the other. “Why are you asking me questions about some guy?”

“The other victims had a new man in their lives and we are trying to find a connection,” Lucas said. Assuming the role of bad cop and being back in control brought an immediate relief. See, she’s just a beautiful woman, move on.

“I’m sorry. I don’t remember anything specific about him.”

“Not even where or how they met?” he asked a little condescendingly.

“Not that I can remember. She told me lots of things.”

Lucas watched as colour rose in Chelsea’s cheeks and her knuckles clenched and whitened. His heart lurched and his resolve began to waver. Focus!

“I thought friends told each other everything,” he said a little too loud.

“We do!”

“Then why didn’t she tell you about him?”

“I don’t know.” She stood up and sent Lucas a look that would have frozen fire. “You’re welcome to take anything you need from Elle’s room and if you need to send someone over to collect evidence or something, that’s fine but, if you don’t mind, I would like to be alone.” She started out the room.

“Wait, please,” Maggie called. “I’m sorry if Detective Hudson seemed rude,” she said frowning at him again, “but anything you can tell us could be important.”

“I can’t think of anything. Can I get back to you later? I’m just a little upset at the moment.”

Her cool tone penetrated the last of his defences. Her heartbreaking expression and the misery in her eyes were more than Lucas could bear. Being tough only caused her more pain. Granted he was known for being the assertive half of the partnership, but he couldn’t recollect ever being so tough on a distraught witness - not like this. He was firing questions at her like she was a perp holding onto a confession. Why was she having such an effect on him? Why was he letting this case get to him so much?

The blood, there was so much blood. Their lifeless bodies discarded on the floor. His life destroyed by callous punks.

Lucas heard Chelsea sob, which propelled him back to the present.

“We need to inform Elle’s family so someone can identify her. Do you have an address for her parents?”

Chelsea nodded. Maggie handed her a notepad and pen. Once Chelsea had written down the information she handed it back to Maggie.

“Thanks. We’ll leave you to it,” Maggie said before handing Chelsea a business card. “Call me if you think of anything or are ready to answer some more questions.”

“I will. Thank you, Detective Johnson.”

“It’s Maggie,” she said offering her a comforting smile.

Chelsea returned a feeble smile and nodded towards the door. “You can see yourselves out.”

Once they were in the car, Maggie spun round to face Lucas. “What the hell was that about?” she asked him in astonishment. “I know you like being Mr Tough Guy but that was going too far. She was upset and you were badgering her.”

“I know, I don’t understand what has gotten into me,” he said with a contrite expression. “I … this case … her … it’s all just got a hold of me.”

“Well you need to either snap out of it and stop being a bully or put your guard down and let someone in.”

“Let’s just take off and see if we can work out a motive because it seems our perp is not just targeting brunettes, making it all the more difficult for us. We have to find a connection.”

“You really are preoccupied by her. I’m stunned.”

“What?”

“You don’t see any resemblance.”

“What are you getting at, Maggie?”

“Libby and Kate are not similar looking to Chelsea? Short, petite, dark hair, you can’t see it?”

“What about Elle?”

“She was her roommate. Man, you are somewhere else, aren’t you?”

“It’s all pretty thin, Mags. It could just be a coincidence.”

“You’re probably right. She does look a little like them, though.”

“So do a lot of women, Mags. You’re reaching.”

“I know but what else do we have?”

Chapter 9

Connection

Thursday

Chelsea just couldn’t believe Elle was gone. Immediately, she felt very lost and alone. Disbelief overtook her. She slumped back onto the couch. Sobs wracked her body as she covered her face with her hands, unable to comprehend the reality.

How could this have happened? Who could have done this? Why?

With tears streaming down her face, Chelsea picked up the phone and called the only person she knew would give her some comfort.

“Mum,” she moaned.

“Chelsea?” Sarah said. “What’s happened? Are you all right?”

“Mum ... Elle ... she's been … she’s gone.”

“Gone, dear, where did she go? She didn’t run out on you? She’s always been a little erratic—“

“Mum,” Chelsea cut in, “she’s dead.”

“What? How can she be dead? Chelsea honey, what happened?”

“Have you seen the reports on the news regarding the murders?”

“Yes horrible. Dreadful for their families.”

“Well they think he got Elle.”

There was a heavy pause, a decisive pause. “Chelsea, I’m going to come and stay with you. You shouldn’t be alone right now. I can get a locum to cover for me at the surgery and I can be there by tomorrow. Charlotte will come with me.”

“Thanks, I really need you both.”

“We’ll be there tomorrow.”

They said their goodbyes and hung up. Somehow Chelsea managed to get to her room and climb into bed before she burst into uncontrollable floods of tears.

* * *

When they arrived at the station, Lucas and Maggie were called into their Captain’s office. Everett Shaw exuded superiority. With his large stature and booming voice, he could menace the bravest of men. He got the job done and expected the best from his detectives and officers. And yet his rugged looks and boyish smile could also charm almost anyone.

“Sit down, Detectives,” he commanded. “I hear we have number three. Is that correct?”

“Yes, Captain.” Lucas took the floor. “We have just come from speaking with her roommate.”

“There is a lot of heat on us right now to get results. Where are we on this?”

“We’re about to go over all three and see if there’s a connection. The only link we have at present is the first two looked similar and the third girl’s roommate resembles the victims. We also know all three were seeing a new ‘mystery’ man but we’ve been unable to get a description. There were hairs found on Kate, which luckily can be used for DNA comparison. We have flour traces from two of the victims. We’re waiting for the results from Dave to see if the same is true for the third.”

“Good, keep focusing on how these girls could be connected and I’ll get you some manpower to help with canvassing. They can also re-interview all the friends and family.”

“That would be a great help, thanks, Captain,” Maggie answered.

“Great let’s get to work.”

They had been dismissed.

Maggie headed off to organise CSIs and officers to search Chelsea’s house and to allocate tasks to the detectives assigned to help on the case.

Lucas strode back to his desk, determined to find something, anything, no matter how small, tying these girls together. He didn’t want to think about Maggie’s theory regarding Chelsea regardless of their similarities. Just because he mentioned it to Captain Shaw didn’t mean he wanted to consider it. The idea made him uneasy and he didn’t know why.

Instead, he looked over the list of items retrieved from Kate Miller’s house and found it wasn’t long. All items had been fingerprinted. They had found no matches within the department databases but they did match the prints taken from Libby’s house. This confirmed what they already assumed; the same killer was responsible for both murders.

Scanning down the page, he stopped when he came to a Coffee Break Café paper cup. It seemed familiar but even though he mulled it over for a moment, he couldn’t place why.

Then he remembered. That’s it!

While brooding by the door at Chelsea’s house that morning his cop radar had still been active. He’d scanned the room and now thought he’d seen the very same coffee cup on a table near the stairs. Could this be the connection? Only one way to find out.

Grabbing his jacket off the back of his chair, he bounded off looking for his partner. He located her getting coffee in the break room.

“Maggie, everything organised?”

“Yeah, bud, what’s up?”

“I need you to do something while I check out a possible link.” He gave her his crooked grin.

“You know I can’t resist that smile, Lucas, what do you need?”

“Could you ring Amy Miller and Kelly Bradshaw, find out whether Kate and Libby frequented the Coffee Break Café?”

“Sure, where are you going?”

“To ask Chelsea the same question. I think I found a connection.”

“Lucas,” she called out as he turned to leave. “Are you sure? I mean, after this morning and yesterday.”

“I need to make up for my mistakes, Maggie. Make amends with her.”

“Ok, I trust you. Thousands wouldn’t. Keep me posted.”

“Will do,” he called out as he rushed out.

* * *

The sun streaming through the window stung Chelsea’s raw eyes as she opened them. She blinked a few times as her head thudded out its own drum beat. Disorientated, it took her a moment to recall what had happened and why she was in bed, fully clothed.

Elle.

With dread, she dragged herself up and looked at the time. It was still morning. She must have dozed off after the detectives left.

Detective Lucas Hudson, so that was his name.

His gruff manner lingered from the previous day but that didn’t reduce her attraction to him. Some things go beyond reason. The way his eyes penetrated her, as though looking right into her soul. Scary. Enticing. Unnerving. He’s rude and abrasive, not you’re type, no matter how sexy he is. Don’t be silly, he doesn’t even like you.

He’d made that crystal clear.

The doorbell jolted her out of her reverie. Chelsea was greeted by four Crime Scene Techs and two officers, who’d been sent over by the detectives. She showed two of the techs to Elle’s room while the other two fingerprinted the living areas. The officers stood at the entrance.

Chelsea determined to do something with her day, to keep her mind from wandering. Although she felt hollow and tears hovered beneath the surface, Chelsea tried not to think about the aching pain in her chest.

She proceeded to the kitchen to make some coffee. Perhaps some caffeine would shake the fog from her head. She brewed her favourite blend and the aroma lifted her spirits a little. Her mind wandered as she prepared her coffee. She was running though her orders for Bloom to ensure everything was completed for the next day when a thought jumped into her head. Mrs. Sheridan!

She dialled Clare Sheridan’s number to find her, as expected, full of anguish.

“Mrs. Sheridan, I’m sorry about Elle. If I’d gone to the police sooner...”

Elle’s mum was quick to reassure her. “Chelsea, you couldn’t have known. Elle ... well you know …” Her voice caught and she cleared her throat.

“I do. I ... if you need anything.”

“I’ll ask.”

“Yes, please.”

“I will. You’re sweet. Thanks for calling, Chelsea. Take care. Are you still in the house?”

“Yes.”

“Maybe it isn’t safe to be there.”

“Mum and Charlotte are coming over and I am surrounded by cops.”

“Chelsea, are you sure? He could have keys, anything.”

That scared her. He could. “I’ll think about it carefully, Mrs. Sheridan.”

“You do that.”

Talking to Elle’s mum had really upset her. Her heart ached at the senselessness of the world that took such a wonderful daughter and friend. And Mrs. Sheridan was right. He might come back. No, why would he?

She shivered and allowed a few tears to escape before wiping them away. Tears for Elle or tears for herself? Both. Things were never going to be the same. It hurt too much to think about it all now.

She poured herself another cup of coffee as the first did little to help her think. As she headed upstairs, to sit out on the balcony, the doorbell rang again.

What now? Should she answer it? Of course she should. The place was crawling with cops.

Chelsea opened the door to discover Detective Hudson standing there with a solemn face and remorseful eyes. His attitude appeared so changed from their previous meetings that she became confused.

“How can I help you, Detective Hudson?” she asked cautiously.

“Please, call me Lucas,” he replied with a crooked smile. “I was wondering, if it’s all right, could I ask you a couple of questions?”

What a smile. How could she resist that smile? Why hadn’t he done that before? And his eyes seemed to have taken on an amber hue.

Chelsea, what has gotten into you?

“Sure come in. Would you like some coffee?”

“Yeah, that would be great, thanks.”

“I was just about to go upstairs and sit on the balcony, to keep out of the way of ...” She pointed towards one of the techs. “Do you mind if we sit up there to talk?”

“I don’t mind. Wherever you feel most comfortable, Chelsea.” It felt nice to say her name again.

Lucas watched her small, sexy form as he followed her through the living room, which he’d only glanced at earlier that day. The furniture was modern but welcoming and the couch just begged to be snuggled into. With her.

She walked into the kitchen which was separated from the living room by the stairs running up the middle of the house.

He passed the table he’d spotted earlier with the paper coffee cup. His memory had served him well and the cup was in fact from the Coffee Break Café and sat exactly where he remembered it. Lucas gestured to one of the techs to bag the cup.

“How do you take it?” she called.

“Milky and sweet, thanks.”

She emerged with two steaming mugs of coffee, passed one to him, their fingers touching as she did so sending a jolt up his arm, before proceeding up the stairs. Lucas climbed up behind her so transfixed by the lure of her body that his mind clouded over completely, full of her.

Stop acting like a school boy with a crush, Lucas. You have a job to do.

The stairs led up to a setting much like downstairs. The top level was split into two halves with a bedroom on each side and what appeared to be another bedroom and a bathroom in the rear. At the top of the stairs, a large window gave a fantastic view of the city.

He assumed Elle’s bedroom had been to the left as there were two techs collecting evidence and fingerprinting there. He gave them a nod as he went past while Chelsea went to the right, through her bedroom and out a sliding door. Lucas strolled out behind her to discover the same sensational view from her balcony as he’d seen from the window.

“This is a beautiful house you have here.”

“Thanks,” she said with a weak smile. “I’ve always loved living here but now well …”

“It’ll get easier.”

“I hope so. Now what did you need to ask me Detec ... I mean, Lucas?”

The sound of his name on her lips was intoxicating. She is intoxicating.

“I noticed a coffee cup from the Coffee Break Café downstairs. Was it yours?”

“Um no, it was probably Elle’s ...”

“Do you know if she went there often?”

“Yes, most days, I think. She started a new job a few months ago in the same group of shops as the café. Um, Dazzle was the place she worked. Anyway she used to go and have a coffee before work or when she went on a break. She ate lunch there a bit too.”

“Do you think she might have met the new guy she was seeing there?”

“It’s possible. Now that you mention it, about a month ago she told me about a blond guy who worked there or he might have been the owner,” she paused. “Knowing Elle and it being a month ago, she could have moved on. She was a ….free spirit.” She gave him a brief smile.

His heart lifted into his throat. He cleared it and continued.

“Did you ever go to the café with Elle?”

“A couple of times. She sometimes came and helped me at my shop and we went and had lunch there. She always talked about the food.”

“You have a shop?”

“Yes, I’m a florist.”

“That would explain the gardens.”

She smiled again. “I guess it does but I’ve been neglecting them lately.”

“You can’t tell. They’re … nice.”

“Why, Lucas, you do have a soft side after all.”

Did I just blush? He cleared his throat again. “Thanks, um, can you think of anything else about the café that might be helpful? Did you ever see the owner?”

“No ... Wait! I’m sorry, I just remembered. I haven’t been thinking very clearly. She told me about meeting someone when she was leaving one day. She said she ran into him as she was coming out and she talked about him a bit that night. How could I have forgotten this? I don’t know if it was the same one who owned the cafe or a different man. I don’t remember what she said about the café owner and it could have just been someone else that worked there. I hope that helps.”

Stop rambling Chelsea.

“Very helpful, thanks.” He smiled.

“Do you have any more questions?” she asked as she placed her now empty coffee cup on the table.

He followed suit. “Um no, I think that’s it for now. We’ll go to the café and check it out. I might have more questions after that.” He paused. “Um, this morning and yesterday, I was rude.”

“Yes you were, why?”

“Because I … because …”

“Because what, detective … ?” She cut him off and a little frost returned.

He wanted to answer but his traitorous mind went blank. His eyes moved to her lips and he wanted to taste them.

“I don’t understand it myself.”

A playful smile danced on her face.

Does she feel it too? He took a deep breath.

Then something surprised him. She took a step forward. “What is it?”

He knew she now wanted him to touch her. She does feel it too.

“I … no, I really can’t explain …”

That smile again. Encouraging him.

“… I can only show you …”

Her hand reached out towards him, bridging the short distance between them before returning to her side. “Show me what, Lucas?” Her tone suggested she understood and her eyes reflected his sentiment.

It was now or never.

“This.” He took the final step towards her and placed his hands lightly on her waist. Pulling her towards him, he stooped down to kiss her softly but he craved more. She feels and smells so good. He wrapped his arms around her, lifted her slightly from her feet, bringing her tight against his body and deepened the kiss.

Chelsea’s mind went blank as she melted into his arms. He feels so good. How does he do this to me? She lost all control of her hands as they wound around his neck. Her fingers dove into his hair.

He groaned and she felt his tongue ease against hers. Her tongue came to meet his and she moaned audibly. Her pulse raced as a fierce surge of electricity shot through her. His tongue against hers, his soft lips and hair, his strong arms around her waist, caused desire to overcome her and she groaned again. At that moment she couldn’t even imagine their lips parting.

Stopping abruptly, he lowered her to the ground.

“I’m sorry,” he said with a husk laden voice. “I shouldn’t have done that.”

His sudden backtracking shocked her to inexplicable outrage and she fixed him with an icy glare. “That’s right, you shouldn’t have. I hope you got what you came for. You had better leave before I report you.” She wasn’t sure whether she meant it or not. She was lost.

So was Lucas. He stared as her for a second, mumbled an apology, and left.

Chelsea stood there visibly shaken, as shaken as she had been when she had been told that Elle wouldn’t be coming back. She knew exactly what the emotions were that he had stirred within her, but it had been a long time since ... However, this was no whimsy. She’d let him in and now she was on fire. How could he make her feel ablaze one moment and then like ice the next?

Chelsea decided this could not happen again. She was not going to get involved with this gruff detective and then hurt by him, no matter how sexy he was.

* * *

Lucas stormed out to his car. What was he thinking? She was part of an ongoing investigation. He had just put his job on the line – for what, green eyes and milky skin? Well, there could be worse reasons but, no, he wasn’t going to get involved. He wasn’t going to get close to anyone and certainly not someone relating to a case. It’s just chemistry. She’s out of my system now. Wasn’t she?

No, he realised she wasn’t, not now that he’d tasted the pout of her lips. She wasn’t going to leave his mind in a hurry, however much better it would be if she did.

* * *

Lindsay has turned out to have no fight at all and this is making me more anxious to have the real thing, the real spoilt bitch. She just sobs and her screams are just not the right ones.

I must be patient, make it right for when I have my way with the princess.

I think it’s time to make my presence known to her with a nice little chat.

She’s home, so now might be a good time to see how she has been affected by her loss, to see how she feels about losing someone she cares about.

Ah here she comes now, out on the balcony. It’s so convenient that she likes to sit out there so I can watch her. Who is that with her? Oh, the detective who thinks he’s going to find me. Well think again!

Wait, what is she doing? Is she kissing him? That tramp, I knew she wouldn’t be waiting for me to come to her! What a betrayal, I think that has just bought her an extra day of pain.

I must keep it together. I have to go to my mundane job, keep up appearances otherwise someone may get suspicious if I don’t turn up. If it weren’t for that drab job I wouldn’t have found all these lovely ladies to play with now, would I?

I have to go now, princess, but soon I’ll get to see your blood spill.

Chapter 10

Suspect

Thursday

Maggie was talking with Detective Peterson, one of their extra manpower, when Lucas entered the precinct.

“Hey, tough guy, how are you?” asked Andrew Peterson.

Lucas always thought Andy looked more like a soldier than a cop. Medium height with a short blond military style cut, friendly blue eyes and a stocky, well built physique. His precision on the job made him an excellent detective.

“I’ll be better when we catch this guy,” he replied.

“I’ve just been filling Maggie in on our interviews with Elle’s family. Greg and I are about to go and speak with her friends and then start a canvas of the street.”

“Great, thanks, Andy.”

“Catch ya later.” He waved as he headed out to join his partner.

“So, how did it go with Chelsea?” Maggie asked, her tone wary.

“I think we might have a lead regarding the Coffee Break Café,” he replied with renewed energy, trying to put Chelsea out of his mind. “Were Libby and Kate customers like Elle?”

“Yes, they both had coffee there most mornings on the way to work. It’s a popular place and the food is supposed to be good.”

“Did the victims’ friends know if maybe this mystery guy of theirs worked there?”

“I asked but none of them knew.”

“Chelsea remembered Elle talking about a blonde guy who either worked there or owned the place.”

“Let’s check it out while we’re waiting for the reports from David and the findings from Chelsea’s house.”

“I could do with a decent lunch, so we could grab a bite while we’re there. We don’t get much time to eat good food on this job.”

As they pulled up, Lucas pointed out where Elle worked and how close it was to the café. They walked in to find a trendy but cosy atmosphere and one free table.

“Can I help you?” a perky blonde waitress asked.

“Yes, can we get a table for lunch?” Lucas gave her a crooked grin.

“Why certainly, big guy,” she said. “Have the table over there by the window. I’ll come back and take your order in a moment.”

“Do you have to melt all the women we meet?” Maggie asked.

“I was simply warming her up, ready to ask her some questions.”

“I think you are going soft on me, Hudson.”

“Never happen.”

The waitress returned with her notepad in hand.

“What can I get for you?” she asked, looking at Lucas.

“I’ll have a black coffee and garden salad,” Maggie answered, diverting her attention.

“Sure and what can I get for you?” she said, turning to Lucas again.

“Um, I’ll have a burger and coke, Laura,” he replied, reading her name tag. “If it’s at all possible, when you come back with our food would you be able to answer a few questions?” He showed her his badge. “We’re investigating the murders of three women.”

“Oh how awful.” She paused. “I don’t know how I’ll be able to help though.”

“We believe they used to eat here.”

“Oh, ok, I’ll be back with your orders shortly,” she said flashing her smile at Lucas again.

“How can you eat that stuff all the time and stay thin?”

“Good metabolism, I guess.” He shrugged.

“Yeah well, it pisses me off. If I ate that stuff, I’d have to spend an extra hour on the treadmill.”

“I still go to the gym sometimes too, when I have the time.”

“Yeah, but if I ate like you, I would live there.”

He shrugged again.

As they waited, Lucas perused the room, taking in every face. There were several blond men and brunette women in the cafe, lots of potential victims and perps. Were they looking in the right place? It would certainly be an easy venue for the killer to meet his vics, especially if he worked here. Disgust turned his stomach.

When Laura returned with their meals, she pulled up a chair.

“Ok, shoot.”

Maggie pulled out the photos they’d obtained of Libby, Kate and Elle.

“Do you recognise these women?”

“Sure, that’s Elle!” she said pointing to the photo. “Oh God, that means she’s dead?”

“Yes, I’m afraid she is,” answered Lucas. “Did you know her well?”

“Oh my God! I just can’t believe it. She’s so nice. This is awful.”

“Are you ok?” Maggie said.

She looked absolutely stunned, sitting there holding her breath. “Yes, I think so,” she said, and started to cry. Maggie placed her hand on the girl’s arm to comfort her.

Eventually the waitress wiped her eyes and blew her nose. “You are going to ask if I know her well,” she ventured bravely.

Lucas nodded.

She nodded back emphatically. “A bit. She’s been in just about every day for the last couple of months.” She stopped. “I did wonder why I hadn’t seen her since last Friday.”

“Did you socialise with her or know anything about her?” Lucas continued.

“Sort of. Occasionally, if I was on a break when she was in for lunch, I would join her. We started talking one day and found we had stuff in common and it kind of grew from there.”

“Do you know if she was seeing anyone?’

“No-one in particular.”

“Did anyone pay her any particular attention – anybody who works here or a customer?”

“Yeah, everyone.” She smiled. “Elle has a way about her that made everyone around her feel comfortable. She’s so bubbly and fun.”

“So there was no-one who seemed to take a particular interest in her that you noticed?”

“Well, depends on what you mean. Adrian, the owner, was always trying to go out with her.”

“Do you know if she did?”

“I think so but she saw through him. He’s a bit of a player. He used to try it with these two as well,” she said pointing to the other photos.

“You knew both these girls too?” Lucas asked with growing excitement. Could they have finally found a witness?

“Yeah, this one is Libby. She’s been coming here for a long time, most mornings before work, for a takeaway coffee. I don’t know her name,” she continued, pointing to Kate’s picture. “She was quiet and kept to herself. She ate lunch here regularly. I just can’t believe they’re all dead. So terrible.” She dabbed at her eyes again.

“Did they go out with Adrian?”

“I don’t know.” She thought about it for a moment. “Adrian is always trying it on with beautiful women.”

“So, he’s a sleaze, then?” Maggie asked.

“No, he’s just charming and very cute, but I wouldn’t trust him.”

“Why not?”

“If you turned your back he would be onto the next girl.” Laura was on a roll now. “Trust me, I know.”

“Did you go out with him?” Maggie said.

“Yeah, but then he just moved onto the next one. She comes in here quite a bit. I think her name is Lindsay.”

“You don’t think it’s strange that your boss chats up these women, they then go missing and then they turn up dead?” Lucas asked in a probing tone.

“Well, no, because they weren’t the only three he’s ever flirted with. Like I said, he’s a player.”

“It didn’t bother you, working with him after he dumped you?” Maggie said.

“No, he was good, if you know what I mean.” She grinned. “I had fun. That was all it was for both of us anyway. All I’m saying is if you got too attached to him, you might get hurt.”

“Is he here?”

“He was running errands. He should be back by now. I’ll check the kitchen. He cooks our baked goods,” she said, getting up. “You won’t tell him I told you all that stuff will you?” she asked looking concerned.

“No, Laura, we won’t,” Maggie said. “You have been really helpful, thanks.”

“You’re welcome. So sad. Hope you catch him.” She smiled slightly and wondered off to find her boss.

Maggie looked at Lucas.

Baked goods? Flour!

“What do you think?” she said.

“I think I’m very interested to hear what Adrian has to say.”

Across the room, a tall guy, a couple inches shorter than Lucas, with straight blonde hair, blue eyes and boy next door good looks, came out from the back of the café and walked towards the detectives.

“Hey, I’m Adrian Matthews. Laura told me you wanted to talk to me.”

“Yes, I’m Detective Hudson and this is Detective Johnson and we’re investigating the murders of three women. We would like to ask you a few questions.”

“I don’t know how I can help you, but I’ll try,” he said, flashing his boyish smile.

“Are you the owner here?”

“Yes, but what does this have to do with me?”

“Do you know any of these women?” He pointed to the photos on the table.

“Yes, they all come in here.”

“They’re all dead, Mr Matthews,” Maggie said.

“Oh, I’m sorry to hear that,” he said, the smile disappearing very suddenly. “They were nice girls.”

“Did you have a relationship with any of them?”

“I went out with Elle a few times but it didn’t work out.”

“What about Libby and Kate?”

“Are those their names?” He gave them a smug grin. “No, but not for lack of trying.”

“Do you know a girl by the name of Lindsay?” Lucas asked.

“Yeah, she’s a hot one that one. I asked her out a few days ago and she said she would let me know, but I haven’t seen her since.”

“Do you ask a lot of your customers out?’

“Perks of the job.” He grinned again.

“You don’t think it’s strange that three women you went out with or tried to go out with have gone missing and then been found dead?”

“No, a lot of women come in here and I go out with quite a few of them, or try to,” he said giving Lucas a disconcerting look. “There are a lot of regular male customers that come in here too.”

“Would you consider letting us give you a DNA test?” Maggie asked.

“Um, no, I wouldn’t. I don’t like what you’re insinuating, Detective.” His face grew fierce. “I have work to do.” He got up to leave.

“Mr Matthews,” Maggie said carefully, “the test would rule you out as a person of interest. It’s only because you knew all the girls.”

“You don’t need to rule me out because I didn’t do anything.”

He started to walk off again.

“Matthews,” Lucas called after him. He turned his head and looked at Lucas. “Do you do the cooking here?”

“Yeah, some of it. I bake the cakes and quiche, things like that. What has that got to do with anything?”

“So you would use a lot of flour then?

“Yes. Why are you asking me these stupid questions?”

“Just routine. Thanks for your time.”

Adrian disappeared into the kitchen again.

“I want to test this guy, Maggie.”

“I know. Me too. Do we have enough to bring him in?”

“All we have is he’s a chef and he knew all three women, but there are plenty of chefs out there and lots of cafés. Like he said, there would be plenty of customers that could have been here when all three girls were.”

“I would like to see whether he has a record and what missing persons have for us. I’m sure whoever this guy is, he’s not finished.”

* * *

I’m greeted with terror in her pretty eyes.

She knows what I’m going to do, as it’s the same every day.

Even though it’s no use and she knows it, she continues to beg me not to, but we both know I will.

She shakes her head from side to side while I have my way with her. When I’m finished, I cut the next letter into her chest and watch the blood flow while I listen to her screams …. the screams that remind me of another time.

“Stop snivellin’. Be a man,” my father shouts at me as he kicks me again in the stomach while I lie helpless on the floor, waiting out his assault. “We’d have more money if not for you,” he slurs again as the boot goes in once more.

I remain still and wait for it to be over. He’s the one that spends all the money on booze and speed. He’s indulged again tonight and I’m on the brunt of his drunken rage, as usual.

“You’re the reason your mother left,” he yells as he grabs the nearest sharp knife and holds it to my throat.

“I oughta cut you up right now.”

Then I hear a scream and realise it’s me.

Or was that her again? I’m not sure anymore. Her cries and shrieks start to subside as I complete the last cut for today.

I watch a bit longer as her blood spills and then I clean her up and stop the flow. Can’t have her die just yet.

I’m getting restless and wish for it to be that perfect little princess lying here on the dirty mattress and not this substitute.

I must be patient and make it perfect, just like she thinks she is.

I need to practice and get it right.

Chapter 11

Dinner

Thursday

While Maggie checked to see whether their friend Adrian Matthews possessed a record, Lucas checked the files sent over from missing persons. Three girls had been reported missing who matched the descriptions of the victims. The first file Lucas opened contained information on a blonde girl about the right age but she wasn’t tall like Elle. He put the file to the side, as he couldn’t discount her yet.

He opened the second file and the face staring up at him caught his breath. If he didn’t have Chelsea’s face etched into his memory, he would have thought it was her photo in the file. Even though the missing girl’s eyes were blue, everything else about her matched Chelsea. Her listed measurements showed she was a waif of a girl and her hair was long and dark. Lucas glanced across at her name and stopped.

“Maggie,” he said, not believing his eyes. “Did Laura at the café say that a girl named Lindsay came to the coffee shop?”

“Yeah, she said her sleazy boss had been trying to go out with her. Why?”

“I think I’m looking at her.”

“She’s missing?”

“Yep.”

“Since when?”

“Yesterday afternoon.”

“That was reported fast.”

“According to the notes, she was very career orientated so when she didn’t turn up for work her mother became concerned. She too left her possessions behind.” He paused to look up at Maggie before returning them to the file. “She never leaves the house without her phone. Her mum reported her missing because she knew this was unlike her daughter.”

“And with the murders all over the news ...” Maggie added.

“She grew very concerned, which is lucky for us. We have an early heads up.”

“Well, well, we might be able to bring Mr. Matthews in after all. Now with this, along with the fact he has a record ...”

“What for?”

“Violating a restraining order his ex-girlfriend took out against him.”

“Print out his photo.”

“What are you going to do with it?”

“After seeing this photo of Lindsay, I’m starting to believe your theory about the resemblance to Chelsea,” he said, showing Maggie the photo. “I would like to show her his picture, see if she knows him. On the way there, I’ll visit Lindsay’s mum and show her the photo of Matthews, follow up with some questions.”

“Show Chelsea the other girls’ photos too, just in case.”

“Will do,” he said grabbing Libby, Kate and Lindsay’s photos before retrieving the photo of Adrian Matthews, which had just come off the printer.

“While you do that, I might talk to the other staff at the café to see if I can track some of Matthews’ movements. We can compare notes in the morning if you want,” she said, looking at her watch. “I’d also better go home for dinner or my husband might forget what I look like.”

* * *

Chelsea’s stomach rumbled and she realised she hadn’t eaten since breakfast. After Lucas had left her reeling, she’d decided to take her frustrations out on the weeding and pruning. It was simply too difficult to think about either Elle or Lucas. She did, however, place a bouquet of cut flowers in Elle’s room and several more around the house, which lifted her mood slightly.

She was heading towards the kitchen to scrape something together for dinner, when the doorbell rang for the fourth time that day.

Again she hesitated to answer it. Get a grip, she told herself. You can’t refuse to answer your own door.

And there was Lucas again. His hair was damp and unruly and he smelt like the ocean breeze. Instead of a suit, as he’d worn earlier in the day, he had on a green t-shirt which clung to his broad shoulders. One hand was thumbing his jeans while the other held a file. His crooked smile and luminous hazel eyes took her breath away.

“Hi. Your garden still looks great.” His intense scrutiny of her face sent tingles through her body.

“Thanks. It was a good way of escaping …. everything,” she replied.

“Smells good in there too,” he said, nodding his head towards the living room.

“Oh, I brought some of the flowers inside and threw them together.”

He peered over her shoulder. “They look great. You have a knack for throwing them together,” he said still smiling and staring at her with those amber eyes.

“Thanks. Um, would you like to come in?’

“Yeah, thanks. I’m sorry to intrude but I have some photos to show you. I guess they could have waited till tomorrow but I also wanted to apologise for this morning.”

“What for, for kissing me or apologising for it?” she asked with the frosty look he was beginning to become familiar with.

“The second option.”

She smiled and her emerald eyes softened.

“I was just about to make some dinner. Have you eaten?”

“No, not yet. I went home and got changed, then came here so I guess I haven’t got around to it.”

“Would you like to join me? It won’t be much, just whatever I can throw together.”

“You throw things together so well, I’m sure it’ll be great.” His eyes twinkled and her breath stopped, again. “Anything would be good right now.” It was hard to stay mad at him.

“Would you like a drink?” she asked as she led him out to the kitchen.

“A beer would be great, if you have one.”

“Sure do.”

She pulled one from the fridge, twisted off the top and handed it to him. He touched her hand as he took the drink. The stormy look in her eyes quickened his pulse. How was he going to keep his hands off her? How could he look at those lips and not kiss her again? Did she just ask me something?

“Sorry, I missed that?” he said, pulling his eyes away from her lips.

“What do you need to show me?”

“Oh, it can wait.”

“No, let’s get it out the way and then we might be able to enjoy dinner together.” She smiled.

“Ok, if you’re sure.”

She nodded, so he pulled the photos from the file he was carrying.

“This is Libby and Kate they were …um, do you recognise them?

Chelsea looked at them intently while he did the same to her. When she looked up he looked down at the photos.

“No, they don’t look familiar to me. Sorry.”

“That’s ok. How about Lindsay?” he asked putting her photo down next to the others.

They both stared intently at different things again.

“No, I’m afraid I’m not much help.” She tightened her lips.

“It’s ok. I didn’t expect you to know them. We aren’t sure how they are connected yet. I have one more for you and then we can try and forget about it for the evening.”

He placed the photo of Adrian Matthews on the counter.

“I’ve seen him before,” she stated. “I’m not sure where.”

She thought for a moment. “Wait, I know, the café,” she said as she remembered. “One day, a week or so before I went away, Elle and I were having lunch at the café. She kept glancing toward the kitchen, like she was looking for someone, then he,” she pointed to the picture, “came out and she waved to him. I asked her who he was and she said ‘Just a cute guy that works here’ and I didn’t push further. I can’t believe I didn’t remember that before, when you asked me about the café.”

“That’s ok. It happens a lot, especially when people are in shock.” He looked into her eyes. “This is why we show people photos because sometimes it reminds them of the little things they might have forgotten or thought weren’t important. What you told me is helpful.”

“Do you think it’s him?”

“Not sure yet but we’re looking at him. Just wondering also if you have a recent photo of yourself?”

“Why do you need that?”

“Just in relation to Elle’s case.”

Her eyes studied his for a moment before she pulled out an album from a cupboard and removed a photo.

“It’s not very recent.”

“It’ll do thanks.” She gave him another quizzical look before returning the album.

Lucas decided to change the subject and picked up the photos. “So what are you cooking up for me?”

* * *

While Chelsea cooked, he decided to divert her attention away from murder by asking about her family. Her eyes lit up and Lucas was glad he’d asked.

“When my Dad was twelve, my grandparents retired and bought a house in Tidwell. They wanted to enjoy their retirement in a small town community and away from busy city life. My Pa was a psychiatrist and my Nan a midwife. She died about five years ago. They worked hard and invested wisely, enabling them to retire at an early age. My Dad is the local doctor and my Mum the vet, so they are both well known and respected. I grew up knowing most of the townspeople.” She paused and blushed. “Sorry I’m babbling.”

“No, please, go on. Do you have any brothers or sisters?” He wanted her to keep talking. He enjoyed watching her speak with renewed vigour in her eyes which were shining greener than ever. She was doing things to him he’d never experienced before. He ignored the warnings in his head.

“Yes, Charlotte is two years younger than me and is studying to be a vet. She works part time with our mum. Hayden is ten years younger and a typical fifteen year old. Doesn’t say much. I guess he never really has. Charlotte and Hayden are very much the opposite. She is confident and outgoing whereas he is very shy and reserved. I guess I’m kind of in between. Charlotte talks too much and Hayden not enough. At the moment though, I think I would give my sister a run for her money. I feel ... comfortable with you I guess.”

She blushed again, almost provoking him to throw caution to the wind. Almost.

“I don’t mind. I’m a good listener. Part of the job criteria.”

“I don’t see them as often as I should or want to. Our busy lives seem to get in the way.”

“I completely understand. I work too much too.”

He watched her as she finished dinner and served up. His heart threatened to leap from his chest. He just wanted to touch her again.

She poured herself a wine and refreshed his drink and, once they were seated, asked him about his family. At first his face went blank, then a look of utter sorrow passed over it so that she deeply regretted asking.

She makes me want to tell her. I need to tell her.

“My parents are both dead and my sister lives about half an hour out of the city,” he said in a flat tone, not looking up.

She gasped. “Oh, I’m so sorry.”

“It’s ok. It was a long time ago. It’s part of the reason I became a cop actually.” He brought his eyes to hers and found himself telling her the rest, without even thinking. The words just poured out.

“I was seventeen when it happened. I was ... at a friend’s and was going to the electronics store my parents owned afterwards, to help my Dad with his stock take.” He cleared his throat but the hurt was still in his voice, in his eyes.

“I called out to them as I came in the back door but there was no reply. I felt something sticky on the floor and that is when I saw the blood...” He trailed off and dropped his eyes.

“You don’t have to tell me any more,” she said in a whisper, touching his hand.

“I want to.” He was surprised by how much he wanted to. “I saw my Dad’s feet sticking out from behind a box and, as I walked around, well I was never going to be prepared for what I saw. Both he and my mother had had their throats cut for one day’s takings and some electrical goods.”

He stopped. She dropped her fork.

“They never caught who did it. Carrie, my older sister, and I moved into a small apartment. I joined the force; she started a hairdressing business and got married.” He looked up to discover tears running down her face. “Oh God, I’m so insensitive. How could I tell you that today?”

“I’m not crying about Elle, Lucas. I’m crying for you.”

She reached across the table a second time and put her hand onto his clenched fist, leaving it there this time.

He liked the feel of her soft hand on his. “It’s okay. Like I said it was a long time ago. My sister has always been my rock and she has two beautiful kids, who I adore.” He smiled and the hurt from his eyes vanished. He unclenched his fists. “It’s ok. Please don’t cry.”

“I just couldn’t imagine …”

“I guess that is why I have been so …”

“Curt?”

“Putting it nicely. This investigation has got to me some.” His lips thinned.

“Well,” she said, trying to brighten the mood. “I think today calls for chocolate cake.”

“You have some?” His nose crinkled delectably.

“Well of course. I bought it yesterday in case Elle came home ...”

“I’m so sorry, Chelsea. If I had listened to you ...”

“It’s not your fault. There was probably nothing you could have done anyway. Come on, let’s have some cake on the balcony. You thought the view was good during the day.”

* * *

They sat in comfortable silence admiring the view while Lucas sneaked glances at her when he thought she wasn’t looking. Little did he know that not only had she noticed, but she was doing the same.

After he had finished his dessert, Lucas placed his plate on the table, looked at his watch and stood up abruptly.

“It’s late. I should go.”

They went downstairs and stood at the door, neither in any hurry to end the evening. He pulled out a business card and gave it to her.

“If you need anything, ring me, anytime. Thanks for dinner.” He turned to leave.

“I think I like this Lucas much better,” she said quietly and he almost didn’t hear her.

He turned to her as she stood on her tip toes to offer him a brief kiss on the cheek. He groaned. All his composure shattered like glass on a tiled floor.

In one swift motion he scooped her up into a powerful embrace and devoured her mouth, his tongue teasing hers. One hand dove into her hair to stop and cup her head, to pull her in closer. The other circled her waist to clasp her tight against his body. He deepened the kiss, pouring all his desire and passion from his mouth to hers.

Her body tingled all over as she reached up to touch his face before running her fingers through his hair. She wrapped her legs around his waist and buried her hands deeper in his waves, clasping it now, drawing him closer.

Having her legs wrapped round him was almost too much for him to endure. If he didn’t stop now, he never would. Feeling her body tight against his made him dizzy. He pulled his head back but didn’t put her down.

“If we don’t stop, I will not be responsible for what happens next,” he said hoarsely.

“Me neither,” she purred.

“Chelsea, as much as it pains me to say this, I think we should stop. I don’t want rush in, do anything too soon ... not with you.”

And suddenly he knew he meant it. This usually ended differently but he didn’t want it to go this way. His desire-filled mind couldn’t make sense of it all.

Chelsea looked into his eyes and saw the truth there. She did want him to stay but it was too soon and she’d gotten carried away. She unwound her legs and he gently lowered her down without removing his hand from her face. He bent down to kiss her tenderly.

“Good night,” he whispered.

He left quickly before he could change his mind.

After he’d gone, Chelsea leant against the door and sighed. She knew she’d seen the real Lucas tonight and he wasn’t the tough guy he made himself out to be. What was she going to do now?

* * *

As he drove home, Lucas attempted to bring himself back under control. He nearly turned the car around, but he talked himself out of it. How had he stopped himself from taking her as she wrapped herself around him? Why did he stop? What made her so different?

He decided a good night’s sleep would improve his focus but, once in bed, sleep was unattainable. She kept sliding sensuously into his mind.

He couldn’t believe he’d stopped and not taken the next step. He’d been a one night kind of guy, no strings attached. He didn’t want one night with Chelsea; he wanted more, much more. For the first time ever, he saw a woman as more than a pretty face, a conquest, someone to warm his bed for the evening, to stave off his loneliness. He did not just want this from her; he wanted everything. She’d felt so comforting when he’d poured his heart out to her and when she cried for him before touching his hand.

He was totally dumbfounded by how he had managed to stop himself from leaping across the table and taking her there and then.

He could barely keep his hands to himself whenever he was around her, yet he had managed to do just that the entire evening. Then her kiss to his cheek, so affectionate, so trusting somehow and her adorable face gazing up at him were almost his undoing. He knew at that moment he had to slow things down, to play for higher stakes.

He lay with his arm over his face in an attempt to block out her floating image so he could get some sleep.

Big question - would she still want him once she knew how many women he had slept with? The thought made him feel insecure, even panic briefly in a rare moment of shame, and he knew it would be best for them both if he stayed away from her for a while, got over her. That was what he should do, now could he do it?

That night, instead of death haunting his dreams, it was milky skin, emerald eyes, kissable lips, and her small hips pressing against him. The nightmares were gone again.

* * *

What’s this, Princess, having dinner with the detective now, are we? Well you are full of surprises. Don’t get too comfortable. Soon I will be coming for you. Tomorrow we will speak. I need to hear your voice and to let you know that soon you will taste the bitterness of one more loss. Losing your friend is just the beginning.

Chapter 12

Family

Friday

Sitting around thinking about Elle was not going to bring her back. The pain threatened to overwhelm Chelsea as she pottered around the house, busying herself with mundane tasks. Nothing took her mind off the fact that her best friend was gone.

Chelsea decided to open Bloom to escape the silence and constant reminders. Elle wouldn’t have wanted Chelsea to put her life on hold and it would take her mind off things.

As she headed out the door, the phone rang. She rushed to answer it.

“Hello.”

“I’ll be coming for you soon,” a strangely metallic voice threatened before hanging up.

Her heart dropped but she pushed away the fear, almost convincing herself that it was a prank call, someone’s idea of a sick joke.

* * *

When Chelsea entered the back of her shop an instant comfort of aromas and colours washed all over her. She was pleased to see Gavin had delivered the flowers along with the arrangements for display she’d purchased, allowing her to get a start on her orders.

The next hour passed quickly and, before she knew it, opening time arrived. Next to Saturday, Friday was her busiest day and she appreciated that the morning would go quickly. Sarah and Charlotte were arriving at lunchtime and she was eager to see them.

She closed for lunch and headed home to greet her family. The moment she walked in the front door, the phone rang once again. Dropping her bag and keys on the table, she ran to answer it.

“Hello.”

“Soon it will be your turn.” Again that metallic voice.

She put the phone down, hard. This time she couldn’t shrug off her growing anxiety so easily. Was this threat real? It certainly sounded it. No, of course not, she told herself, but she failed to convince herself. Underneath she knew she wasn’t being paranoid.

The voice sounded cold, harsh and very serious. Inhuman, in fact. She stood frozen, her heart thudding. The hairs on her neck bristled. As goose bumps spread down her arms, she rubbed her hands over them and tried to shake off the mounting terror.

She thought for a moment about picking up the phone again and calling Lucas. Perhaps the calls could help with his investigation. No, surely it wasn’t the killer. Why would he call her? She thought it would be nice to call Lucas and this could be a reason to. A slight smile touched her lips as she remembered their evening, their kiss. She brought a hand to her lips as she remembered how they felt against hers.

When the phone shrilled again, she jumped and she let out an involuntary cry. As she picked it up, apprehension crept into her chest. Taking a deep breath she summoned some bravado.

“What?”

“Chelsea?”

Relief dispelled the trepidation at the sound of a familiar voice.

“Yes.”

“This is Clare Sheridan.”

“Oh, I’m sorry for sounding rude, Mrs. Sheridan. I’ve just been receiving some nuisance calls.”

“Are you sure they are nuisance calls, dear and not something more serious? Please tell me you will be careful. And it’s Clare.”

“Ok, Clare, please don’t worry I’m sure it’s nothing.” Chelsea reassured her, not won’t to cause her any further distress. “How are you doing?”

“Not so good, honey. I’ve lost my baby and I don’t know how I’ll get through it.” Her voice caught.

“I miss her too.”

“I called to find out whether you would mind ... if my daughter, Megan, can come around on Monday to collect ... Elle’s things.” Her voice broke and she paused a moment. “I can have her do it sooner if ...”

“No Monday is fine, Clare. There’s no hurry.”

“Thank you and also the ... funeral is Tuesday. Megan can give you the details on Monday, when it will all be finalised.”

Clare sobbed quietly, her composure barely holding.

“Thank you for letting me know, and if you need anything else, please call, anytime.”

“Thank you, dear.” Then she was gone.

Chelsea experienced a sense of dread and sadness. Tears which threatened during her call with Clare escaped now. She would actually have to say goodbye to her beautiful friend. Chelsea wasn’t sure how she was going to manage this. She couldn’t understand why life took such a wonderful person like Elle. Leaning against the counter, she wiped away the tears and took a shaky breath.

Trying to put Elle and the calls out of her mind for the moment, she walked to the kitchen to prepare lunch.

With perfect timing, just as she’d finished, the front door opened and Charlotte breezed through with Sarah following close behind. She ran to greet them and was enclosed by a Summerville hug, Charlotte from behind and Sarah in the front. Sarah pulled back and cupped her face.

“How are you holding up, sweetheart?”

“Ok,” she squeaked.

“Well, we’re here now so you don’t have to worry about anything. What time do you need us to head over to Bloom?” she continued in her no fuss way.

“In about half an hour.”

“Well let’s eat, then,” Charlotte decided.

They caught up on lighter subjects over lunch. As they prepared to leave, the phone rang again.

“This phone has not stopped,” she said with exasperation.

“Hello.”

“You head off to your little shop now, Chelsea. I’ll see you soon.”

This time Chelsea hung up.

“Who was that?” Charlotte asked.

“No-one, just a prank call.”

“How many have you had?” Sarah asked.

“A few.”

“What did they say?” Charlotte said.

“He would see me soon and that he was coming for me, that kind of thing, nothing serious. It’s probably some kids who have seen the news and know Elle was murdered.”

Chelsea was still hoping against hope that this was actually the case, although her rapid pulse and the prickles of cold fingering her spine, told her otherwise. He knew her name.

“How would they know where she lived?” Sarah asked.

“I don’t know. I’m sure it’s nothing.” Chelsea shoved her shaking hands in her jacket pockets to hide their betrayal of her words.

“It doesn’t sound like nothing to me,” Sarah said, just getting started now.

“Mum, it’s okay, really.”

“Drop the bravado, Chelsea. I can tell from your face that the call bothered you.”

“He said my name.”

“What? You have to tell the police.”

“I don’t know if that’s really necessary.” She wished it wasn’t.

“Yes, it is.”

“Can I call Lucas later, when we get home from Bloom?” she asked. Chelsea instantly realised her mistake once the words left her mouth.

“Who’s Lucas?” Charlotte asked with one eyebrow raised.

“He’s a detective working on Elle’s investigation.”

Chelsea attempted to keep her face straight, hoping to deter further questions. However, with Charlotte, this would be unavoidable. Her sister was far too inquisitive. Chelsea wasn’t ready to share Lucas with anyone yet. Besides she wasn’t really sure what was happening anyway.

“You like him.”

“He’s nice.”

“Is there something going on?” she asked, her voice laced with excitement.

“I don’t know.”

“What do you mean you don’t know?”

“Exactly that, I don’t know. We had dinner last night, nothing serious.” She shrugged trying to appear nonchalant.

“Chelsea’s got a boyfriend,” she teased.

“No, I haven’t. How old are you anyway? Six?” she said a little too fiercely. “Now we have to get going and open Bloom, so I can make a living.”

Chelsea promptly stormed out the door. Charlotte and Sarah exchanged looks and shared a secret grin before following Chelsea.

There was much to do. Chelsea completed all the bouquets required for the next morning out the back and away from her sister’s questioning looks. Sarah manned the phones and took orders, while Charlotte served and flirted with her customers. By the time they’d helped the last of them and shut the door, they were exhausted.

“How do you do this every day by yourself?” Charlotte asked throwing herself dramatically into a nearby chair.

“I don’t do it by myself. On busy days, like today, I have Lauren to help me,” replied Chelsea, referring to the part-time student who worked for her.

“Oops, did we steal her job today?”

“No, she had exams today which, by the way, shouldn’t you be doing?”

“No, I only had two and they’re done.”

“Good. I wouldn’t be happy if I took you away from your studies.”

“Well you haven’t,” she stated standing up. “Can we go now? I have a craving for a glass of cold wine.”

Once the day’s takings were counted and all the flowers put safely in the fridges, they headed home. As they walked in the front door, the phone rang again. Chelsea looked at Sarah and Charlotte.

“Should I answer it?”

“Yes and then I think you should write down every phone call,” Sarah told her.

“Yes,” she answered the phone.

“Not long now.” The phone went dead.

“What did he say?” Sarah asked.

“Not long now.”

“Write all the calls down now, so you don’t forget.”

“Ok, I am really worried now. The calls only happen when I’m home,” she said, frowning. “See there are no messages on my machine. It’s like he knows when I’m here.”

“So do you think you should call the police now?”

“Yes I do, but after dinner, okay?” Sarah nodded.

Over dinner and a glass of wine, Charlotte began to grill Chelsea again.

“Please tell me, what is going on with Lucas. I’m dying of curiosity.”

“I already told you, I don’t know.”

“Have you kissed him?”

“He kissed me, twice.”

“I want details.”

“Are you going to stop pestering me if I do?” she asked, rolling her eyes.

“Maybe.”

“The first time I met him, I thought he was rude ... and cute.” Chelsea smiled. “I went to the station to report Elle missing and he acted like he couldn’t get me out the door fast enough. Then I saw him again the next day – yesterday – when they came to tell me about Elle.” She stopped as her voice broke a little. It was going to take awhile to say her friend’s name without heartache.

“What happened then?” Charlotte prompted.

“He was rude to me again.”

“Then how did you end up kissing him?”

“How did he end up kissing me, you mean?”

“Stop using nitpicking as a stalling tactic and spill.”

“He came back later to ask me some more questions and to apologise. Then he kissed me, apologised again and ran away.”

“Keep going.”

“Then he came back last night to apologise again. Seems he does a lot of that, now that I think about it.” She paused. “Oh and he wanted to show me some photos. He stayed for dinner and we kissed goodnight, that’s it.”

“You’re in love with him,” Charlotte declared.

“What? No I’m not. Besides I hardly know him. I only met him Wednesday.” Now that Charlotte had mentioned it, she wondered if perhaps she was at least falling in that direction. Was it possible to love someone on sight? She was definitely infatuated by his amber eyes and crooked grin.

“Shouldn’t you be calling him about your calls?” Sarah said reminding her.

“Ok I’ll do it now” she said getting up to get his business card and the phone.

Chapter 13

Adrian Matthews

Friday

Lucas arrived at the station feeling groggy. First his nightmares plagued his already troubled sleep, now, it seemed, Chelsea was going to occupy his mind during slumber in their place. Instead of seeing his parents’ faces on the lifeless forms, he dreamt about her. He could protect her and do his job or allow his attraction for her to win the war raging inside his mind. She was also part of an ongoing investigation, another complication.

After pouring a cup of coffee, he found Maggie at her desk.

“You look like shit,” she told him.

“So would you, if you slept as little as I have,” he snapped.

“Testy.” She stared at him for a moment before continuing. “Anyway, I went back to the café yesterday evening and Matthews wasn’t there. The two waitresses working there gave me very similar information to Laura. That he’s a player who tries to pick up all the lookers. One of the girls knew Lindsay. She’s been a regular for years. She also said she hadn’t seen her for a few days either.”

“What are his movements like?”

“Both girls very happily informed me that Matthews is in and out a lot all day. He comes in, bakes what needs to be done, maybe does some paperwork and serves a few lady customers before he leaves again. He does this several times over the day and evening.”

“So it’s quite possible that he could be going in and out to visit the victims.”

“Sure looks that way. What did you turn up?”

“I saw Mrs. Anderson last night and she told me the last time she saw Lindsay was when they had lunch together that day. Mrs. Anderson left to go back to work first and she assumed that Lindsay followed soon after. When she arrived home that evening, Lindsay wasn’t there. Mrs. Anderson rang her work and they told her Lindsay’s hadn’t returned after lunch. When she rang her phone and it rang in Lindsay’s bag, she grew concerned because she never left the house without it.”

“Any info on the mystery guy?”

“No. I asked about Matthews and showed her a picture but she didn’t recognise him.”

“Looks almost certain now. Lindsay’s been abducted by the same man.”

He nodded grimly. “I’ve organised some CSIs and uniforms to collect her things and fingerprint the place. I think we’ll end up with the same again - no match to the database. If we find any prints, we can see if they match the ones taken from the vics’ houses, then at least we will know for sure.”

“Worth a shot. Hopefully they will find something new too.”

“Chelsea recognised Matthews from the café.”

“Please tell me we have good news.”

“She remembered Elle seemed interested in Matthews when they were having lunch but she didn’t know whether or not he was her mystery man.”

“Perhaps we can bring him in for further questioning now.”

“I was thinking the same thing. Let’s go and pick him up.”

They arrived at the café to find it half full, with mostly the same faces Lucas had seen previously enjoying coffee or brunch.

“Hope he’s here,” Maggie said as they walked up to the counter.

“Good morning,” Lucas said, smiling at the girl manning the bar. “Is Adrian Matthews in?’

“Yes, I’ll get him for you.” She disappeared into the kitchen.

A moment later Adrian Matthews strutted out but halted when he saw the detectives.

“What are you doing here, Detectives?”

“We have some questions we would like to ask you at the station. Could you come with us please?” Maggie asked him.

“Actually, no, I can’t. I’m busy and have some cakes baking. You can ask me anything you need to right here,” he said without budging.

“I really don’t think you want us to ask the questions we’re going to in front of your staff and customers,” Lucas said, giving Matthews a steely- eyed scowl.

“Fine,” he conceded. “I’ll come then. I have nothing to hide.”

He threw his apron at the girl behind the counter and asked her to watch his baking and then followed the detectives out to their car.

Matthews initiated small talk on the drive to the precinct but neither detective was interested in chatting with their suspect. When they arrived, they showed him to the interrogation room and offered him a drink, which he refused.

Maggie pointed to the chair across from where she sat at the table. “Have a seat, Mr. Matthews.”

“Please, call me Adrian. We don’t need to be formal.”

“Ok, Adrian,” Lucas said as came to stand behind his chair. “Where were you Wednesday afternoon?”

“Probably at the markets getting produce like I am every Wednesday afternoon.”

“And you were there last Wednesday?”

“Yes I was.”

“Do you know Lindsay Anderson?” Lucas asked as Maggie put her photo on the table.

“Yeah, I’m trying to bag that one.” He turned and looked at Lucas conspiringly. “Didn’t I tell you this already?”

Maggie shot Lucas a look to calm him and took over the questioning.

“Mr. Matthews, this is no joking matter. Lindsay is missing.”

“Oh sorry, Ma’am, meant no disrespect.” He flashed a charming smile.

“What about Elle Sheridan?” she continued, putting down the next photo.

“I already told you this. I went out with her for a while then moved on.”

“Did she dump you? Did she piss you off somehow?” Lucas asked.

“No, I dumped her and moved onto the next lucky lady. Laura, I think, from the café.”

“What about Kate Miller and Libby Greene?” Maggie asked him.

“What about them?”

“Did you know them Mr. Matthews?” she asked again pointing at the photos on the table.

“Yes, from the café. Why are we going over this again?”

“Did you go out with them?’

“No, but not for lack of trying.”

His unoriginal lines were beginning to irk Lucas.

“So they rejected you and you didn’t like this much, did you?” Lucas asked.

He came around from behind the chair to stand over Matthews.

“No, not really, but plenty where they came from.” He shrugged.

“Mr. Matthews, do you know Chelsea Summerville?” Maggie placed the photo of Chelsea on the table.

“I’ve definitely seen her before. She’s hot.”

Lucas took a step forward and before he could grab his shirt and heave him out of the chair, Maggie grabbed his arm.

“Please, Mr Matthews, just answer the questions. Where have you seen her before?” Maggie asked using her calming tone while Lucas paced around the room, attempting to cool off.

“She came in the café and ate lunch with Elle a couple times.”

“Have you been out with her?”

“No, I was dating Elle at the time and I don’t like to have too many going at once. Hard to keep up. I would love to have a go though.”

“You’re a real charmer aren’t you, mate,” shouted Lucas. He grabbed Matthews by the collar and heaved him from the chair, shoving him up against the wall, hard.

“Detective Hudson,” Maggie said. “A word outside please.”

He put Adrian down and stormed out of the room.

“Please sit down, Mr. Matthews. I’ll be back in a moment,” Maggie said as she shut the door.

She grabbed Lucas’ arm and dragged him down the hall.

“What are you doing?” she hissed.

“That prick had it coming.”

“Yeah, maybe he did, but you can’t man-handle the suspects. We won’t get anything out of him now.”

“We aren’t going to get anything out of him anyway. He’s either not our guy, arrogant or stupid. I’m not sure which yet.”

“Look, I think you have too much personal interest in this investigation. You need to chill out for a bit. Go walk it off and I’ll finish up.”

“Fine.”

He strode past her and slammed out the front doors. Maggie went back into the interrogation room.

“I’m sorry about that, Mr. Matthews.”

“What’s his problem?” he said nonchalantly. “I haven’t done anything and I don’t really know why I’m here.”

“You’re here because you knew three women that ended up dead and one that is missing. It is a bit more than a coincidence.”

“Well it has to be because I did not kidnap or kill anyone!” He stood up.

“Please sit down, Mr. Matthews.” After he did, she continued. “So, you don’t know where Lindsay Anderson is?”

“No, I don’t.”

“Where were you Wednesday night?”

“Out on a date”

“You seem pretty sure about that. You don’t need to think about it for a minute?”

“No I don’t. I was out with this chick called Marissa. I know it was Wednesday because we met at the market and went straight out afterward.”

“What time did your date finish?”

“The next morning.” He grinned.

“I’ll need to check your alibi. What is Marissa’s surname?”

“Don’t know. I won’t be seeing her again.”

“That’s very convenient, Mr. Matthews.”

“Is for me.” Again the grin.

“Do you resent people with money?’

“Um, no, I have plenty of my own.”

“You’ve been in trouble with the police before, haven’t you?”

“It was a misunderstanding,” he said between gritted teeth.

“Violating a restraining order is a misunderstanding?”

“It was my ex-girlfriend. She thought I was stalking her. I was just trying to win her back.” He gave her a look that made her uneasy. “She dropped the order.”

“Very convenient again, wouldn’t you say?”

He didn’t answer, so she went on. “Would you be willing to have a DNA test?’

“No.”

“If you have nothing to hide, Mr. Matthews, it would clear you of any suspicion.”

“I know I didn’t do anything and I don’t have to prove it to you. You have nothing tying me to these murders. I want a lawyer.”

“You don’t need one. You’re not under arrest, yet.”

“Then I don’t have to stay?’

“No, you’re free to go.”

“Then I’m outta here. Let’s hope my day’s baking isn’t ruined. Good day, Detective,” he said with a wink as he walked out the door.

Lucas was sitting at his desk, brooding, when she returned.

“Have you cooled off yet?” she asked.

“Yes, I’m sorry, Mags. I lost it.”

“She’s more than a distraction, isn’t she?’

He shrugged.

“I hope so. I’d like to see you happy.” He smiled.

Maggie was about to update Lucas on what he missed when Captain Shaw strode up.

“I hear we have a suspect in custody.”

“No, Boss, we had to let him go. We didn’t have enough to hold him and he refused a DNA test. When he wanted to lawyer up, I said he didn’t need one, so he left.”

“Keep on him but find other links too, in case he’s not our guy.”

“I don’t think he is,” Lucas piped up.

“Why not?” Shaw and Maggie asked simultaneously.

“He’s a player and I don’t think he holds a grudge. He just moves on. I think he’s the dumper and not the dumpee. I really don’t think rejection bothers him all that much. I wouldn’t write him off completely but he just doesn’t seem right to me. He doesn’t really come off as the shy type.”

“Maybe he just said that to them so he didn’t have to meet anyone, to draw suspicion away from him. He is very arrogant, and someone who’d take the vics’ IDs and leaves them with the bodies for us to find, to taunt us, would be pretty sure of himself,” replied Maggie.

“Whoever it is, he is making it easy for us to ID them, which would suggest he thinks he’s smarter than us. He also somehow manages to get his hands on the IDs undetected unless he makes them bring it when he takes them. We found no fingerprints except those of the vics themselves on both IDs and belongings. Anyway, I still think Matthews is too loud and stands out too much. Everybody knows he’s a player so it would be difficult for him to hide. I just think our man would be inconspicuous.”

“You could be onto something there,” Shaw said. “Anyway you two keep at it but not this weekend. You’re both supposed to be off and I don’t want to hear that either of you have been here or are doing anything on this investigation. I want you to do whatever it is you do on your time off and come back Monday revitalised. Peterson and Stewart are on, so they can continue with interviews and canvassing. I have also set up a hotline for calls and tips and all the major news channels are running a story tonight. We are working on this around the clock.”

“Fine by me,” Maggie said.

“But Captain, we’re not getting anywhere and with Lindsay missing...” Lucas began.

“That’s an order, Detective. No arguments.” He walked off before Lucas could protest again.

“Looks like I can catch up on some lovin’.” Maggie winked at him.

“Please spare me the details.”

“Aw come on, don’t pretend like you don’t remember.”

“Hmm, we did have fun.”

She smiled at the memory.

“Yeah, anyway, why don’t you ask Chelsea out and have some fun too?”

“I might do just that,” he said. “I need to see my sister and her family as well.”

“I know it’s probably not wise as far as protocol is concerned, but I won’t tell.” She winked. “Wouldn’t be the first time you broke the rules anyway.”

“No it wouldn’t.” They shared a smile.

“Shall we meet with Peterson and Stewart and go through what we have?” Maggie said.

Lucas and Maggie located the detectives and they gathered round the white board displaying Libby, Kate and Elle’s photos and constructed a list of all the consistencies between the cases:

Cause of death

Chest wounds

Similar dump spot (except Elle behind shop)

Flour transference

Coffee Break Café

Adrian Matthews

Mystery Man

Possessions left at premises

IDs on body - how and when is killer taking this?

Noted also was the blond hair found on Kate’s body, and that the fingerprints found with no matches to the database were present in all three of the victims’ houses.

The detectives also included the kidnapping of Lindsay in the list, even though she had not been discovered dead yet. They all hoped that they would find her and soon and that she wouldn’t be moved over into the column with the other victims. However, the longer it took to find her, the more likely it was that she would turn up dead.

The similarities between Libby, Kate and Lindsay were also discussed and listed. They then added Chelsea’s photo because she could possibility be a target. The similarities between Chelsea and the victims were strong and, until they knew for sure she wasn’t in danger, they were taking them into consideration.

The big question was why these girls? Did they have a link to Chelsea? Why choose girls of similar appearance? These were questions that were on each of the detectives’ minds. Lucas grew increasingly concerned as the meeting went on.

What puzzled them the most was the relevance of SPOILT BITCH and the perp’s motive. None of the girls came from any kind of moneyed or ‘spoilt’ lifestyle. Lucas mentioned perhaps this could be linked to Chelsea too in that, from what she’d told him, her family might be wealthy.

They surmised that the victims could be merely practice runs for the perp’s intended goal, his grand finale. Was it Chelsea he wanted? If not, why did the victims resemble her and why kill Elle and change his MO? Lucas volunteered to look into this further as well as investigating possible suspects and who may want to harm Chelsea. It was a long shot but worth following up.

The team also decided not to rule out Adrian Matthews until they obtained a DNA sample, confirming things either way. Peterson and Stewart were assigned canvassing areas and people to interview over the weekend.

After the meeting, while Lucas and Maggie were checking over their notes once more before heading home, Lucas’ phone rang. He glanced at Maggie before answering.

“Hudson.”

“Hi, Lucas, it’s Chelsea.” His heart did a little flutter.

“Hey there, how’re you doing?”

“Better now my family is here,” she replied. “Um, I called to ... talk to you about something.”

“What’s up?” He saw Maggie packing up to leave.

“Um, I’ve been receiving some phone calls.”

“What kind of calls?” he said abruptly, stopping Maggie in her tracks.

“Well threatening ones but I’m not sure how seriously to take them. Probably just someone playing a joke but my family insisted I let the police know, so I’m calling you.”

“What was the content of the calls?”

“I have written them all down and when they occurred. Would you like me to read them out to you?”

“No, I’ll come over. I have to talk to you anyway.”

“Ok, sounds ominous,” she said half joking.

“I’ll be there in an hour,” he said and hung up.

“Was that Chelsea?” asked Maggie.

“Yeah, she’s been receiving calls.”

“Hmm, maybe we are on the mark with her being a target.”

“Unfortunately it’s looking that way,” he said grimly. “Have a good one, see you Monday,” he called over his shoulder as he raced out.

Chapter 14

Stalker

Friday

Almost an hour later, Lucas arrived at Chelsea’s. He’d gone home to shower and change first, and had deliberated over what to wear for far too long. As he stood at her door, he realised how nervous he was about seeing her again. He took a deep breath and rang the bell. He heard a voice call out that wasn’t Chelsea’s, “I’ll get it.”

The door opened to reveal a stunning leggy strawberry blonde, giving him the once over. If his mind hadn’t been so preoccupied with Chelsea, he would have welcomed her in a shot.

“Well, hello there, handsome,” she said in a deep flirty tone. “You must be Detective Hudson.”

“And you must be Charlotte.”

“That I am. Aren’t you just good enough to eat?”

“Charlotte,” Sarah scolded as she came up behind her. “Stop flirting with the man and let him in.”

“Of course, silly me, come in, Detective.”

“Lucas, please.”

“Well you’ve obviously met Charlotte. I’m Sarah Summerville.”.

A beautiful short petite woman with striking green eyes and strawberry blonde hair extended her hand.

“Nice to meet you, Ma’am.”

“Please, call me Sarah, Lucas.” She smiled. “Chelsea is just upstairs. She’ll be down in a moment.”

As she spoke, he noticed Chelsea descending the stairs. Her jeans hugged her petite curves and her legs were covered to her calf with brown boots. Her deep green flowing shirt brought out the rose in her cheeks and lips. Her long hair was loose and shone under the overhead lights and he felt a compelling need to touch it. Her pure sexiness erased all rational thought from his mind. Desire overcame him as her scent filled the air. As she approached, his eyes locked on hers and he couldn’t pull them away.

Chelsea saw Charlotte mouth ‘wow’ behind Lucas’s shoulder as she walked towards them. She kept her face even as she looked at him and instantaneously her eyes became glued to his. They all just stood there for a moment as the electricity passed between Chelsea and Lucas.

“Chelsea,” said Sarah breaking the silence, “do you have your list there for Lucas?”

She nodded and handed him the list. He scanned down the page reading her small neat writing and then locked eyes with her again.

“I wasn’t sure how seriously to take them but by the look on your face, I’m now assuming I should be.”

He nodded.

“Is this because I resemble the other girls?”

He nodded again, not breaking eye contact.

“Why would someone want to hurt Chelsea?” said Charlotte.

He cleared his throat and dragged his eyes from Chelsea’s and put on his Detective face.

“That’s what I’m here to find out.”

“Charlotte,” said Sarah turning to her daughter, “we should get going if we don’t want to miss the start of the movie.” She dragged Charlotte towards the door.

“Ok, ok,” Charlotte replied before giving Chelsea a wink over Lucas’ shoulder. “I guess you’re not coming then, Chelsea?”

“No, I guess not, Charlotte,” she replied glaring at her sister before returning her eyes to Lucas.

“We’ll be back in a few hours, Chelsea. Can we get anything for you while we’re out?” Sarah asked.

“No thanks, Mum,” she said. “I don’t think we need anything.”

“We’ll see you later then. Say goodbye, Charlotte.”

“Good bye Charlotte,” she said with a smirk and followed Sarah out to the car.

“Can I get you anything?” Chelsea asked him.

“No thanks. Can we sit down so I can ask you some questions?”

“Sure,” she said leading him to the couch. It was as comfortable as he imagined it would be.

“Do you have any ex-boyfriends who might want to hurt you?” Lucas asked getting straight into it, even though he did not want to hear about her relationships with other men.

“I’ve only ever had one serious boyfriend - well fiancé actually - but I can’t imagine why he would want to hurt me,” she told him. “Wesley left me about a year ago and I haven’t seen or heard from him since.”

He noticed the hurt in her eyes and felt a stab of jealousy. “What happened?”

“I don’t know. I thought we were happy, but he simply disappeared and I never saw him again.”

“Were you living together?” he asked.

“Yes, we were living here and then, after he left, Elle moved in,” she said.

“Did you go to the police?”

“Yes, but they didn’t seem very interested in finding him. They said his father was dead and that his mother had left her husband many years ago. They didn’t think anything had happened to him, just that he must have just taken off. They seemed to think I was better off without him.”

“And his friends?”

“I didn’t know any of his friends. I don’t think he had many, he was pretty shy.” This piqued Lucas interest but he had to be thorough.

“Have you had any other boyfriends or high school sweethearts?”

“No, I don’t really date much,” she said, blushing. “At school I wasn’t very popular.”

“Why’s that?”

“In Tidwell, about a quarter of the families are what some people would call well off and ours is one of them. As I told you last night, my family worked very hard to get where they are. We were the minority, so we were singled out.”

“So you’re rich then?”

“Um, if you want to call it that, my family has money,” she said. Her face became guarded and Lucas knew he’d hit a nerve.

“Would you say you’re spoilt?”

“No!” she said indignantly. Her eyes became cool and a flush filled her cheeks. “I have never taken anything for granted. Sure I didn’t want for anything but I am not the spoilt brat I was often referred to as. I have made my own way and bought my own business and do not in any way accept anything from my parents. They own this house but I pay half the rent, well now the full rent. My parents don’t want me to but I do, I would never rely on them for money.”

“Was Wesley – what’s his surname?”

“Robinson.”

“Was he envious of you or your family, or did he ever give you any indication he thought you were spoilt?’

“Not that I was ever aware of. He did seem a little awestruck by our family’s house but he never indicated he was jealous. Why are you asking me about this? How is it relevant?”

“Hey, I’m not having a dig at you. I didn’t really want to have to tell you this but—“

“What? I can handle it,” she cut in and set her chin.

“The words ‘spoilt bitch’ were cut into the chests of all three girls before their throats were slit.”

An expression of horror emerged on her beautiful face and her eyes dropped to her shaking hands. He mentally kicked himself. What made him tell her that?

“I’m sorry, I didn’t want to tell you but there is a reason I’m asking you about this,” he said softly as he took her small hands in his.

“These murders,” she said with a catch in her voice, “you think they could be because of me? Elle is dead because of me?”

“This is not your fault. It’s this sick bastard’s fault, whoever he is.”

“I hope I don’t know anyone that would do this,” she said in a small voice.

“Me too, I don’t want anything to happen to you,” he assured her, a lump rising in his throat. “We have to be realistic and look at the connections, try to work out who it could be. You only knew Elle and you don’t seem connected in any other way to the others besides your resemblance to them, except via the café. Now that you are getting calls we have to work out why you may be a target.”

She looked up at him. “I really don’t know, Lucas.”

The forlorn expression in her amazing green eyes was too much. He lifted a hand from hers and lightly ran it over her hair and down to stroke her face. Pink rose in her cheeks as he leant forward to kiss her gently on the lips.

His tenderness surprised her and the intensity in his eyes caused her to blush. The touch of his lips sent an instant fire through her body. Wanting more, she threw her arms around his neck and brought his mouth back to hers.

He groaned and intensified the kiss, pulling her up with him as he stood. He hoped she would wrap her legs around him again and she didn’t disappoint. His groin tightened and he knew tonight he was not going to be able to stop.

Chapter 15

Passion

Friday

Chelsea ran her hands across his hard chest and shoulders longing to touch the skin underneath his t-shirt. She groped at it and was rewarded with a smooth taut body beneath. She lifted her hands to bury them in his hair and they became lost in the thick waves. She urged her tongue against his, craving more. She couldn’t get close enough to him.

He could feel her nipples harden against his chest as he carried her towards the stairs. She teased his bottom lip with her lips and tongue as he navigated her upstairs. When they entered her room, he swiftly removed her shirt and explored her soft milky skin with urgent, tender hands. He went with her as he placed her gently on the bed and sought her lips again. Her delicious scent surrounded him and he craved to taste all of her.

Chelsea’s hands roamed his chest and back before slipping off his t-shirt. She lost control of her hands as she explored his honey coloured skin. She craved to touch every part of him.

His hands roamed her body as he kissed her hungrily. He trailed kisses slowly across her jaw and down her neck, inhaling her scent. He took one rosy nipple then the other into his mouth.

She arched her back in response, squeezed his shoulders and sighed out a moan. Her hands roamed to his hair again, gripping it with ardour.

He continued his trail of kisses down her body and removed her pants before removing his own. His mouth teased and kissed her inner thigh. She moaned again as her breathing intensified.

Lucas brought his mouth back up to hers as he slipped his fingers between her legs. She groaned into his mouth and while continuing to massage her, his mouth came down to taste her nipples again.

As she arched her back and cried out, he lingered for a moment, teasing her with his fingers before removing his hand. He brought his mouth back to hers as he plunged inside her. She gripped his shoulders while he cradled her head. Their mouths remained together as he eased into a leisurely rhythm.

“Oh Lucas,” she breathed out her pleasure as he gradually increased the intensity.

He brought them both to the brink and back, wanting to prolong the feeling of her. When she arched up to meet him, he slowed the pace so he could bring her to the peak of desire once more. He kissed her neck and face as she gripped his back. Gradually he intensified his movements and when, for the third time, she tensed, arched her back and cried out with intense pleasure, he groaned along with her, as they united in pleasure.

He lay beside her, pulling her in close as he attempted to reclaim his breath. Her pleasure-filled panting almost had him wanting to start again.

“Now that was much better than I imagined,” he said huskily.

“Yes it was,” she said with a contented smile, her eyes melting into his.

“I aim to please.”

“I’m very pleased,” she said, running her fingers over his chest and stomach.

He lay for a few moments enjoying her gentle touch, before sitting up. He took her hand, grabbed the covers from the bed and led her outside onto the balcony. He sat down on the chair and gestured for her to sit on his lap. Once she did, he wrapped the covers around them.

“It’s so beautiful up here at night,” she said.

“You’re beautiful.” He kissed her tenderly.

“You’re not too bad yourself.” She smiled.

He cleared his throat. “Chelsea … ”

“If you need to ask me more questions, you can. I’m feeling pretty relaxed right now.”

“I know it’s not the best time but we have to find out who might be doing this.”

“Please ask and get it over with.”

“Are you absolutely sure that Wesley wouldn’t be doing this?”

She nodded.

“Do you know much about his family - why he may have been envious of you and your family life?”

“The only things I know about his family are what the police told me. I really can’t imagine it could be him. He was sweet and never seemed to be bothered by anything. Like I said, he was a little in awe of my family’s house but never gave any indication during our three years together that he was jealous in any way. We were getting married, what was mine would have been his. I believe he left me because either he couldn’t go through with the wedding or perhaps he just didn’t actually love me. Besides it’s been a year, if he really felt that way, wouldn’t he have done something before now?”

“Resentment builds over time and a lot of planning would have gone into this.”

“I still think you’re looking in the wrong direction.”

“Well, alright, what about people you went to school with or grew up with? Was there anyone in particular that seemed to have singled you out?’

“No, it wasn’t just one person, and it was a long time ago.”

“Like I said, resentment and hatred builds over time.”

“There is no-one in particular I can think of.”

“Okay, what about people you work with?”

“There is Lauren, my part-time employee who is a student and a girl...”

“Go on.”

“Gavin, my pickup and delivery man. He doesn’t actually work directly for me but for a courier company. He does all my deliveries and picks up my orders at different set times each day.”

“What does he look like?”

“He’s married,” she said, looking up at him.

He gave her a stern look.

“Okay, he’s got short sandy blond hair, he’s in his late thirties with two kids and, like I said, a wife.”

“Is it possible he could have something against you?’ Lucas immediately jumped on the fact he was blond.

“No, he’s lovely and I find it hard to believe that he would be behind this. Move on.”

“Well hopefully there aren’t any other men in your life besides me,” he said with a crooked grin. “So the only people left could be customers or someone you don’t know who has formed an opinion about you for some reason. However this is unlikely and I tend to think it was someone who knows your family has money.”

“Not many people do. My customers wouldn’t and Gavin certainly doesn’t, so maybe I’m not really a target and it’s a coincidence after all.” She paused. “I’m sorry, I’m not much help, am I?”

“No, not really.” He smiled. “You’re right, it could be a coincidence but I’m not taking the chance. The phone calls also suggest that you may know this person and they know where you live. He did use your name. I’m glad you’re not here by yourself.” He ran his knuckles across her cheek and chin before pulling her in closer, cradling her head against his chest and playing idly with her hair.

“Yes, when he used my name it scared me, along with the fact that when each call came in I was either leaving the house or had just walked in. As I said to Mum and Charlotte, it’s like he knows when I’m home. The call this afternoon came in while I was home for lunch, which I don’t normally do.”

“So maybe you’re being followed. Have you noticed anything?’

“No.”

“I don’t want you going anywhere by yourself.”

“I don’t want to talk about this anymore,” she said. She lifted her head up to nibble on his ear.

He groaned. She twisted her body around to kiss him before straddling him.

“Now it’s my turn.”

He groaned his assent as she slowly moved against him, her body pressed to his. He buried his face in her breasts and sucked hungrily on her nipples. When she knew he was ready, she eased herself onto him and slowly rocked. As she picked up momentum he met her movements. She threw her head back and her tempo increased once more. It took all his self control to wait for her. Watching her wild abandonment sent jolts of desire through his veins. He held her hips and met each thrust. When she cried out, he couldn’t hold out any longer and their groans mingled.

* * *

In the early hours of the morning, Lucas awoke and gazed toward the sleeping girl beside him. He watched her in the moonlight, as it cast light and shadow across her face and body. Her hair was fanned out around her lovely face. He stared at her in the moonlight as thoughts raced around in his mind.

It wasn’t unusual for him to leap into a girl’s bed so quickly but what was unbelievably new was the intensity of his feelings.

Although never having been a selfish lover in the past, his efforts last night definitely exceeded any he’d put in before. He craved to please her over and over again. He’d never wanted or needed to do that before.

Everything about her cried out to him to stay, not to run away scared, without her actually saying the words. He was drawn to her like a moth to the flame, his only fear - getting burned. His head pleaded with him to run. Contentment and panic waged a battle within his chest.

Lying on his side, Lucas continued to watch her. He caressed her face and hair hoping she would wake up. Her eyes fluttered open and she stared back at him sleepily.

“Hey,” he said.

“Hey you.” He continued his caresses as she stared back at him. “I want you to know something about me, Lucas. I don’t usually do this.”

He gazed at her, encouraging her to continue.

“I don’t ... sleep around and have never rushed into ... this. I just wanted you to know this. You’re different somehow.”

“This is all new for me too.” He leant over to kiss her, then rolled over onto his back, bringing her with him. “I think I would like a repeat performance from the balcony.”

“Lucas!” she admonished, before kissing him and complying.

Chapter 16

Carrie

Saturday

The sunlight streaming in the window rudely awoke Lucas the next morning.

How does she sleep with the blinds open?

He pulled on his pants and decided to see if he could get some coffee organised for them. Chelsea was fast asleep, her hair billowing across the pillow. She looked so peaceful. His heart lurched. He needed to do everything within his power to ensure she remained safe.

The smell of freshly brewing coffee hit him as he strolled into the kitchen. Charlotte sat at the table sipping from a cup. Reality hit him in the face and the jitters began to creep into his chest. Perceptive to her family’s awareness of the change in their relationship, he suddenly got cold feet, the fear almost paralysing him.

“Well, well, well, looks like big sister got lucky last night.” Charlotte raised her eyebrows. “Very lucky,” she said, gazing at his bare chest.

“I think I’m the lucky one.”

“So this is more than just casual sex then?” she grilled him.

“Um, think so. Hope so.”

“I know where to find you. If you hurt her, you’ll have to deal with me.”

“That’s telling me.” He grinned at her.

“Don’t you give me that look. I’m serious. Chelsea doesn’t do casual, so you better be thinking about sticking around. She might act tough but she really is quite vulnerable. She doesn’t take rejection well.”

“I plan to stick.” He wanted to. He simply wasn’t sure yet if he could.

“Good. Do you want some coffee?”

“Yeah, that would be great.”

“Help yourself. The cups are in the cupboard above the coffee machine.”

As he made himself a cup he formulated some questions to ask Charlotte. It might be the only opportunity he would have to speak with her alone.

He sat across from her at the table, took a sip and then began. “How well did you know Wesley?”

“I only met him a few times. With my studies, I don’t get a lot of time to visit here, but Chelsea brought him home a few times.”

“What can you tell me about him?”

“He was shy, kind of charming in an unassuming way. I don’t know a lot. He didn’t share much about his life with Chelsea. I always wondered about this.”

“Do you think he was jealous of your family’s wealth?”

“Awestruck maybe. I’m not sure about jealous. Like I said, he was pretty guarded.”

“Do you know anyone who would want to hurt Chelsea?”

“No. Do you think she’s in danger?”

“I hope not, but we have to be cautious.”

Charlotte studied him for several minutes and her scrutiny brought his apprehension to the surface again.

“Do you have anything else you want to ask me?” she asked, her eyes still searching for answers in his.

“No, um, where’s your mum?”

“Out on her daily morning work. Bit embarrassed to face her?” she teased.

“Um, yeah, a bit,” he replied sheepishly. “I think I’ll take off.”

He stood abruptly, dropped his cup in the kitchen before disappearing upstairs. Charlotte watched him leave and hoped he wouldn’t be scared off. She’d seen that look before.

* * *

So, the detective stayed all night and she has only known him for two days. I thought she was sweet and innocent but it turns out she’s not. Spoilt bitch.

Well she better not get too comfortable because soon her time will come.

I must have scared her with my phone calls yesterday. I might just have to call her when she gets back from the shop this afternoon.

I know all her movements and soon I’ll watch her blood spill.

Yes, I can hear you, Lindsay. Oh how hard it makes me to think of the blood and it isn’t even hers. How good is it going to be when it is …?

* * *

After his swift departure from Chelsea’s, Lucas went home to shower and change before going to the only person who could help him sort out his feelings and confusion. Carrie.

On the way he called Peterson.

“Peterson.”

“It’s Hudson. I need you to access something for me.”

“Sure.”

“Chelsea Summerville has been getting some threatening calls. Could you get her phone records, check it out?”

“On it.”

“Call me if you get anything we can chase up.”

“No probs. I’ll leave a copy of the log on your desk either way.”

“Great, thanks.”

Lucas knew it was probably going to lead nowhere but they needed a break, a slip-up, and he hoped this was it.

* * *

After he knocked on his sister’s door, he heard a loud chirping sing-song voice from inside.

“I’ll get it.”

She opened the door and he automatically smiled. Mabel with her long straight blonde hair and big blue eyes always brightened his day.

“Uncle Lucas.” She leapt into his arms.

“Hello, Mabe Babe.” She giggled.

“Now, what have I told you about answering the door?” he asked her before giving her an affectionate cuddle.

“Always ask who it is first.”

“That’s right.”

“Look,” she said. “I lost another tooth and got two dollars from the tooth fairy.”

“Well it has certainly gone up since I lost a tooth.”

“I was drawing a picture. Do you want to see it?”

“I would love to.”

At that moment Carrie walked into the hall.

“Well, hello, little brother,” she teased. “About time we saw you around here.”

“I know, I know, I’ve been busy but I had to come and see you,” he said kissing Mabel on the nose.

“Mabel honey, can you go and finish your drawing so I can talk to Uncle Lucas?”

“Okay,” she said reluctantly. “I’ll draw you a picture,” she said directing her gaze towards him again.

“That would be great, Mabe Babe.” She giggled again and ran off to do her uncle a picture.

“Where are Tommy and Nathan?”

“Down at the park doing some male bonding thing.”

He grinned happily and Carrie eyed him for a moment.

“You need a haircut.”

He followed Carrie into the kitchen and while she got her scissors and brushes organised, he got comfortable in her makeshift salon. She wrapped a gown around him and proceeded to give him what she thought was a much-needed haircut.

“How’s your investigation going?” she asked.

“Nowhere, unfortunately. We have hardly any leads or suspects and he doesn’t appear to be slowing down.”

“Are you handling it ok?”

“Like I’ve told you numerous times, Carrie, I can handle it.”

“Alright, I’ll drop it,” she said before starting on her next line of questioning. “So, who is she?”

“Who is who?”

“The girl who’s making your eyes glow.”

“Chelsea.”

“Is she the same one from the other day?’

“Yes.”

“Do you love her?”

“Bit soon for that isn’t it? Besides I don’t do the love thing.”

“No it isn’t. I knew from the moment I met Nathan he was the one. Once you feel it you can’t shake it.”

“Well I don’t know. All I know is she’s on my mind constantly. When I’m around her I can’t think and struggle to keep my hands to myself.”

Carrie smiled. “Sounds like love to me.”

“I’m definitely crazy about her and she … I …. I can’t explain it.”

“Love cannot be explained, Lucas.”

“I’m terrified.”

“You can’t go through life being scared of what could happen. I believe I have told you this before”

“Yeah you have, but this is so new for me. I don’t think I could lose anyone again.”

“So you would prefer to be without her just in case? Life is not that simple, Lucas. God forbid, something could happen to one of us at any time. You can’t control these things. No-one can. What happened to Mum and Dad was devastating and I miss them every day. You also know how grateful I am that you weren’t there as well.”

“You don’t understand. This investigation is leaning towards Chelsea being the killer’s real target and it’s like he’s using these other girls as …. practice,” he paused. “I can’t lose her the same way.” His voice broke.

“Well then protect her. She needs you. Don’t run away.”

“How did you get so wise?”

“I’m a hairdresser. I listen to and solve people’s woes every day.” She smiled. “There, finished.” She brushed his face and removed the gown. “Much better,” she declared, checking her work.

“Thanks, Carrie, for everything, but I really have to go home and get some sleep.”

“Not sleeping well?”

“With the case and … other things. I’ve had a lot on my mind and after last night well … my imagination didn’t compare.”

“That explains the grin.”

“What are the kids doing tomorrow?”

“Nothing much. We don’t have any plans.”

“I might come and pick them up, take them to the carnival by the beach.”

“They would like that, Lucas. They miss you.”

“I know. I miss them too and it will give you guys a bit of a break.”

“More like some much-needed together time.”

“I understand. Don’t tell me anymore.” He went off to find Mabel to say goodbye.

At the front door, Carrie hugged and kissed him.

“Take a chance, Lucas.”

“Bye, Sis.” He waved, jumped into the car and drove home.

When he arrived home he climbed into bed as planned and went straight to sleep for the first time in weeks.

Chapter 17

Taking Chances

Saturday

Chelsea stirred and it took a moment for the memory of the previous evening to urge its way through the fog. She reached sleepily over, only to find herself alone. Did she imagine the whole thing? No, there was no ignoring the masculine scent which clung to her sheets. She smiled as she thought about the night she’d just spent with Lucas and realised no-one had ever had this impact on her before. For a split second his absence panicked her but she felt wonderful and allowed her worries to slide away.

I think I love him.

She shook it off. It had only been a couple of days. Surely it doesn’t happen that fast. Nevertheless, there was no denying her feelings. He was the most incredible man she’d ever met. Falling in love was a journey and the thought of taking the ride with Lucas thrilled her.

Underneath the gruff exterior lived a passionate man who craved to be loved. Being aware of how terrified he was about becoming close to anyone after the way he’d lost his parents, and knowing he could be taking a chance on love, only intensified her growing feelings.

She would never have the internal fortitude to cope with such a loss and she believed this showed Lucas’ true strength of character. How courageous to join the police force and deal with dramas so similar to his own. How he was persevering through these murders, so similar to his parents’ fates, was amazing.

Filled with a renewed vigour that she hadn’t experienced in a long time, she got dressed and went downstairs to find Lucas. She found instead Sarah and Charlotte in the kitchen cooking breakfast. Worry gripped her chest. Did he leave? Would he come back? She’d never been in this position before and had absolutely no idea what to do now.

“Morning, Sleepyhead,” greeted Charlotte. “Bit tired, are we?” she noted dryly with a raised eyebrow.

“I haven’t been sleeping well since Elle disappeared.”

“I’m sure that’s not the only reason.”

“I’m not sure what you mean,” she replied.

“Mum knows, Chelsea, you don’t have to act coy. She saw his car when she went out for her walk this morning. He’s gone by the way, if you were wondering. He left about an hour ago.”

Chelsea blushed.

“If you really like this man, dear, I think it’s wonderful. It’s been too long since you were happy and if he’ll be the one to do that, then I think it’s a good thing,” Sarah said.

“I hardly know him and by the way, Charlotte, I’m not acting anything.”

“You obviously know enough because you’re not the kind of person to jump into anything,” Sarah continued.

“Yeah, like his bed!” Charlotte quipped. “Or in this case yours.”

“Charlotte! I know this is totally unlike me but I just … couldn’t help it.” She smiled.

“He is very hot,” Charlotte stated.

“Hands off.”

“Wouldn’t dream of it, sister dear. Does he have a brother?”

Chelsea laughed. “No, an older sister. Are you coming to help me at the shop today?”

“Yes.”

“Well, I guess I’d better go and get ready then.” Chelsea grabbed a slice of toast. “I’ll be ready in fifteen minutes.” She hurried up the stairs.

“What do you think?” Sarah asked her daughter.

“I think she’s in love!”

* * *

The girls were busy all day at Bloom and didn’t have much time to chat. Charlotte tried to drag the details out of Chelsea but she was tight lipped.

“I don’t kiss and tell like you do, Charlotte.”

Chelsea was happy for the distraction of a busy day. It gave her little opportunity to think about who could be stalking her, if that was actually what was happening. She knew that Lucas thought so, but he was a cop and was suspicious of everything, as he had to be. This didn’t reduce her anxiety. When Gavin came in at lunchtime to collect the deliveries, she couldn’t help but look at him differently. Could he be the killer? She shook her head - of course not. It had to be someone else. But who?

And then there was Lucas. Where were they going? She didn’t want to fall too hard too soon. She wasn’t going to make the same mistake again. Her heart skipped too fast when she thought of him. Chelsea hoped again he hadn’t run out on her this morning. She wished she knew what was going on in his head. Regardless of her concern, a smile crept back and she hummed as she worked.

Her mind wondered to Elle as she finished her final arrangements of the day and her smile dropped. Here she was walking around like a starry-eyed teenager and there was a vicious killer on the loose who had murdered her best friend. How could she be happy so soon after Elle’s death, especially when her friend was never going to experience anything again? There was nothing she could do about Elle except help Lucas in any way she could with the investigation. She couldn’t help falling in love and Elle would have been excited to see Chelsea ‘out there’ again, like she used to push for her to do. Elle constantly tried to set her up with her male friends. Chelsea smiled at the memory.

I miss her so much.

She really hoped they would catch the bastard that took away her best friend.

* * *

Lucas awoke with a start and looked at his watch to find it was almost six. He had slept for six dream-free hours and felt refreshed. He got up, showered to shake off the sleep and realised he was hungry. Discovering nothing appetising in the kitchen, he threw a few things in an overnight bag, grabbed his keys and headed out the door. It was time to take a chance.

* * *

The moment Chelsea and Charlotte walked in the door they were greeted by the aroma of their mother’s cooking. Mouths watering, they located Sarah in the kitchen.

“You don’t have to cook, Mum. You’re my guest.”

“Nonsense, you were at work all day and I needed something to do. I went and did some shopping.” She pointed to an opened bottle of wine. “Help yourselves. I did your laundry and tidied up – not that there was much to do – but it kept me busy. You know I can’t sit idle.”

“Thanks, Mum.” She kissed Sarah’s cheek, then filled their glasses.

The phone rang making them all jump. Chelsea walked to the bench to answer it and cast a worried glance to her family before picking it up.

“Hello.”

“I know you had the detective over all night. Whore! You’ll get what’s coming to you soon, spoilt bitch.” The line went dead.

Chelsea’s face paled and her hands started to shake.

“Chelsea, what is it?” Sarah asked, rushing over to her.

“He knew Lucas was here and he called me a spoilt bitch, which is what he has been leaving on his victims. Lucas was right. I am a target. Who would do this?”

The knock at the door startled them and they all yelped in surprise.

“We’re all a bit jumpy,” said Sarah, trying to calm her daughters. “I’ll go and see who it is.”

Sarah applied the safety chain before opening the door a crack. The girls heard her say “Thank goodness it’s you”, and when she came back to the kitchen, she had Lucas in tow.

“What happened?” he asked, seeing the scared look in Chelsea’s eyes.

“He called again.”

Charlotte filled him in on the latest call. Lucas listened intently and said nothing for a few moments. Fear for her safety threatened to choke him as images of the victims flashed through his mind.

“Please don’t open the door for anyone and, if you do, put the chain on like Sarah did. Chelsea, please don’t go anywhere by yourself.” He wrapped her up, pulled her close and kissed her tenderly. “Are you alright?”

“I’m a little shook up but I’ll be ok,” she answered, gazing up at him. “You had your hair cut?’

“Yeah, whenever I visit my sister she gets her scissors out.”

“I like it,” she said running her fingers through it.

“Have you had dinner, Lucas?” asked Sarah.

“No, not yet. I don’t cook much. It’s not really my thing. There wasn’t anything to eat at home anyway so I came by to see what you girls were doing. I see I have arrived just in time. It smells great.”

“Well, there’s plenty here. I always make too much. Please join us.”

They steered clear of any disturbing subjects over dinner and Charlotte as always was the chatty entertainer. Lucas watched Chelsea as she talked and laughed with her family. He suddenly realised there was no way he could walk away now. She already possessed his heart and he didn’t want it back.

Charlotte and Sarah discreetly decided after dinner there was a café they wanted to try with great desserts. After Lucas warned them to be careful, they left.

Once alone, Lucas scooped Chelsea up and carried her towards the couch. He placed her lightly but with haste to the floor. Impatiently he groped at her clothes as his lips sought hers.

Her eagerness to feel smooth skin equalled his and she tugged at his clothes with the same fervour. With arms wrapped around her, he brought her with him as he sat on the comfortable cushions so she was astride him. They made love on its softness, their bodies pressed tightly together, their mouths exploring, their hands buried in each other’s hair. They reached the crescendo together, their groans of pleasure in unison.

As their slick bodies slowed to a stop, she rested her head on his shoulder and feathered kisses along his neck and jaw while he caressed her back and hair. Snuggling with her as she sat cradled in his lap, was just how he imagined it would be.

“Sorry to pounce on you like that but I’ve been thinking about doing that with you on this couch for a couple of days.”

“I’m not complaining.”

“I’m also sorry for running out this morning.”

“It’s ok, I understand. We have only known each other for a short time and this is happening really fast.”

“I feel like I’ve known you forever.”

She giggled. “Spoken like a true romantic cliché.”

“I know but it’s actually true in this instance.”

She smiled, stood up, took his hand and guided him towards the stairs.

“Again?” he asked.

She just nodded and took him to her room. This time she wanted him to make love to her.

* * *

As they did the previous evening, they sat out on the balcony enjoying the scenery. They were feeding each other chocolate cake while drinking wine. Lucas was grateful for the cover of darkness. If Chelsea was being stalked, he didn’t want to give the maniac any fodder for his delusions.

“I wish we could stay here forever and forget about everything,” Chelsea whispered. “I suppose that’s naive and probably just as corny as what you said downstairs.” She giggled.

She popped another piece of cake into his mouth with her fingers, which he nibbled on.

“It would be nice not to have to see another murder victim,” he said once she’d removed her fingers.

“Then why do you do it?” she asked before he put cake into her mouth and she sucked his fingers.

He groaned and closed his eyes until she stopped. “I don’t want other families to go without justice, like my family did.” He clenched his jaw so Chelsea kissed him and his eyes turned amber again.

“That’s better,” she said, looking into his eyes. “I love it when your eyes go that colour.”

“Yeah, they tend to do that when I’m happy or ….” He kissed her again.

“Oh and how do you know this?”

“I’ve been told.”

“By whom? All those other girls you’ve been with?” A stab of envy pierced her heart.

“A few have mentioned it,” he teased.

“Oh, I suppose there have been lots. I mean you’re attractive and I don’t actually know if you’ve been serious with anyone before ... and you’re so amazing and a man ... who I guess has needs ...” She trailed off, not able to look at him now.

“Chelsea,” he waited until she brought her eyes back to his. “I’m not going to lie to you, there have been .... a few but I’ve never felt about any of them the way I feel about you.” He paused. “Attractive huh, is that all you got?”

“Okay, then, to quote my sister, you’re hot.” He laughed.

“I’ve just decided I’m going to enjoy teasing you.” He brushed her face tenderly with his lean fingers. “If you must know, there have only been a few who have seen me happy. It’s how my sister knows, just like she did this morning. She hasn’t seen it happen very often though, and not in a while.”

“You were happy this morning?”

“Deliriously.”

She smiled and began to play with his hair. “Not as much hair to do this now.”

“I’ll grow it back for you, then.”

“I like it both ways, so maybe just more time between haircuts.” She smiled again before her face grew serious.

“I’m scared, Lucas,” she whispered.

“Me too”

“What are you scared of?”

“This animal getting you.”

He pressed his forehead to hers and held her hands in his.

“Don’t come out here by yourself, ok?”

“Ok.”

“I’m going to see about getting uniforms to protect the house when I’m not here and to escort you to work.”

“Is that really necessary?” she asked, pulling her head back to look into his eyes.

“It would ease my mind a little.”

“Ok.”

He stood, scooped her up and carried her back to bed. They made love slowly, looking into each other’s eyes. They cherished every moment, both wishing they could stay this way forever. They fell asleep that night in each other’s arms.

Chapter 18

Mabel and Tommy

Sunday

Chelsea lay watching Lucas, waiting for him to wake. He stirred, which entailed an adorable groaning noise, opened his eyes, gazed at her sleepily, and smiled. She poked him in the ribs evoking a boyish giggle which delighted her even more.

“What’re you doing today?” he asked.

“Not sure. Charlotte probably wants to go shopping.”

“Would you like to spend the day with me and my niece and nephew?”

“I’d love to! I’ll go take a shower.”

She leaped out of bed and disappeared into the bathroom. When the shower door opened, she was in the middle of washing her hair.

“Want some company?”

“Yes, you can wash my back.”

She wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him ardently. Using her vanilla body wash and discovering this was the source of her delicious aroma; he lathered her body, leaving a familiar trail of kisses down her wet body before coming to rest between her thighs. When he brought his mouth to her, she threw her head back and cried out loudly. He teased her with his tongue until she shuddered and moaned out his name.

Lucas eased her up against the tiles and, as she wrapped her legs around him, he thrust inside her. The water cascaded down their bodies while they kissed feverishly and rode the waves of ecstasy together.

“You’re going to wear me out,” he whispered.

“You’re the one who interrupted me,” she whispered in the same satisfied tone.

“I couldn’t resist knowing you were naked and wet.”

“You’re a naughty boy, Lucas, and I love it!”

He eased her down to the floor and they finished washing each other tenderly.

Once they were both dressed and ready to leave, Chelsea noted his different attire and smiled smugly.

“You brought a change of clothes. Very presumptuous of you.”

“I didn’t presume anything. I came here to stay.”

They drove in comfortable silence to Carrie’s house. Chelsea, however, became increasingly nervous the closer they got to their destination. How would his family react to the swiftness of their relationship? Would they think they were rushing things? Would they approve?

“Don’t be nervous. They’re all going to love you,” Lucas said.

“How do you know I’m nervous?”

“Let’s see, because you look it. I’m trained to notice these things. You won’t be able to hide anything from me.” She peeked at him from the corner of her eye and realised his serious tone was all in jest as her favourite smile adorned his face.

“Don’t tease me. I’m nervous enough.”

“No need to be. Trust me, Carrie is the least judgemental person I know.”

“There’s something to judge me for?”

“Chelsea, you’re making me happy and that’s all that matters to Carrie and Nathan.”

As he helped her out of the car, her nerves intensified to the point where she believed her heart would actually leap right out of her chest. Lucas was important to her and how his family felt about her suddenly became of the utmost significance.

An adorable blonde girl of about seven answered the door and leapt into her uncle’s arms.

“What have I told you about answering the door, Mabe Babe?” he asked, kissing her on the nose. She promptly jumped down and shut the door.

“Who is it?” she sang.

“It’s me?”

“Who’s ‘me’?”

“Uncle Lucas.”

The door flew open and she catapulted herself into his arms again.

“That’s better.”

“Who are you?” she asked.

“Chelsea.”

“You’re pretty,” chimed a little voice from below.

“Thank you.” She smiled and looked down to discover a miniature version of Lucas. “You must be Mabel and Tommy.”

“How do you know who we are?” Mabel asked as she studied Chelsea with big blue eyes.

“Mabel!” warned a tall pretty auburn haired woman with the same intense amber eyes as Lucas.

“It’s ok,” she said to Carrie and turned to Mabel. “I know who you are because your uncle has told me all about you but he didn’t tell me you were so beautiful.”

Knowing she had made an instant friend, Mabel jumped down from her uncle’s arms to give Chelsea a hug.

“I like you,” she stated. “You can stay.”

“Is she your girlfriend?” she asked Lucas.

“Maybe,” he said smiling at Chelsea.

“Ok that’s enough now, Mabel. Come in.” Carrie gestured for them to come inside. “Hello, I’m Carrie.” She then turned to the tall sandy blond haired man with the same blue eyes as his daughter standing next to her. “This is my husband, Nathan. You must be Chelsea.”

“Hi, nice to meet you both.”

Carrie made coffee while Mabel continued her inquisition. Tommy gazed at Chelsea shyly while Nathan and Lucas caught up. Once coffee was served and Carrie was seated, her very own inquest began.

“So, what do you do, Chelsea?”

“I own a shop - Bloom.”

“Oh I know it. I’ve admired your work many times in the window. Nathan has simply not gotten the hint yet.”

“When he does I’ll be sure to make something special.”

Carrie’s line of questioning continued regarding every aspect of her life. After about twenty odd questions, Nathan intervened.

“Carrie, honey, I don’t ask this many questions in court. Stop badgering her.”

“I’m not! Lucas never brings a girl to meet us and seeing he has, I wanted to learn more about her. This is a novelty for me. The last time was ...”

“Carrie,” Lucas interrupted. “Chelsea doesn’t need to know about ... that.”

Chelsea glanced at him. Who was it he didn’t want her to know about? She brushed aside her annoyance so they could enjoy the day. There would be plenty of time to quiz him later.

Lucas decided this was the perfect time to leave before the girls talked the day away. Chelsea suspected it was before Carrie gave away too many secrets.

As they were leaving, Carrie whispered in her brother’s ear “she’s adorable.”

“I know.”

“And whether you know it or not little brother, you do love her.” She waved goodbye.

Chelsea turned to wave and saw the couple embrace, seemingly grateful they would be spending the day alone together. Her appreciation for Lucas increased and her annoyance completely dissipated. He wasn’t only doing this to spend time with Mabel and Tommy.

“That is very thoughtful of you, giving Carrie and Nathan some time together,” she said to him quietly.

“I try and do it once a fortnight, when I’m not working. I love spending time with them. They’re great kids.”

“Yes they are.”

It was a bright warm day and the beach and water looked inviting. Once a year for two weeks the carnival was held by the shore and Chelsea hadn’t been since she was a teenager. There was an assortment of rides for all ages and sideshow games with the usual novelty prizes along with all the junk food and sugar one could consume.

As they walked from the car to the carnival, the children jumped around excitedly while they chatted about what they wanted to do first. Lucas took Chelsea’s hand and pulled her close.

Mabel and Tommy went and lined up for the carousel while Lucas and Chelsea watched them go around. After several laps involving enthusiastic waving, Chelsea and Lucas became completely absorbed in one another and it felt as though there was no-one else in the world around them. They stared tenderly into each other’s eyes, shared little kisses and whispered their mutual admiration.

“I feel like a love sick teenager,” he told her. “It’s wonderful.”

“I think you’re incredible,” she told him. “I can’t wait to get you alone again.” His eyes spoke his assent.

They were oblivious to the children, who had run up to them, until they spoke.

“Eeeww, gross! They’re kissing like Mummy and Daddy do,” said Mabel with disgust.

“You’ve got a girlfriend,” Tommy mocked.

The rest of the day flew for all concerned. After they had been on every ride they could, eaten as much sugar as was humanly possible and played every sideshow game until they could not carry their prizes anymore, the sun had started to set. They piled into the car and headed home.

During the drive, Mabel and Tommy promptly fell asleep in the back and Lucas had not let go of Chelsea’s hand.

“Thank you for today,” she whispered. “I had a wonderful time. It was nice to forget about everything for a while. Having children around reminded me how to have fun.”

“Yeah, me too,” he answered.

They dropped the children home and said their goodbyes. When they pulled up at Chelsea’s, Lucas walked her to the door but it didn’t appear as though he was going to come in.

“I really want to stay with you tonight but, if I do, I know I won’t sleep much.” He grinned before his face grew serious. “I’m worried about leaving you alone though, but I have to be focused tomorrow. We have to catch this guy and soon. I really need to sleep.” His brow furrowed in confusion.

“I have to open the shop tomorrow but I’m sure I can be a little later than normal.”

She was determined that now they’d found each other they wouldn’t spend a single night apart. Life was too short.

“I thought you didn’t open Mondays.”

“I don’t usually but I’m not opening Tuesday because of Elle’s funeral. Come on, big guy, stay. I promise I’ll let you get some sleep.”

“Oh, of course. Do you want me to come with you?” He resisted her seduction for the moment.

She nodded and waited.

“You promise to be good,” he asked playfully.

“Only a little bit.”

* * *

With excitement Anna glanced in the mirror for a last check before grabbing her handbag from the bed. Sophie would no doubt accost her again as she headed out the door but she wasn’t going to reveal anything to her sister, not yet. Chad asked her not to share their growing affection with anyone. The idea of a secret affair thrilled Anna. Having an identical twin usually meant there were no secrets. It was nice to have something that was just hers for once, something she didn’t have to share.

Meeting a shy Chad, all blond and beautiful, was the nicest thing to happen to Anna in a while. The least she could do was keep their secret. His coy nature drew her to him that day in the coffee shop. She determined this was his reasoning behind their budding relationship remaining between them for now.

Anna cheered as she went to close the door - she was going to make it without the questions - until Sophie pounced.

“Where are you going?”

“To meet Sandra. You were there when I told Mum and Dad.”

“That isn’t where you’re going. Who is he?”

“There is no he.”

“Anna, why are you hiding this from me?”

“I’m not, I’ll see you later or tomorrow. I don’t know what time I’ll be home.”

“I’ll get it out of you yet.”

Anna shrugged, waved and shut the door.

At the bus stop, Anna saw Chad waiting in his car. She rushed over exhilarated. This was only their third official date but they’d been talking on the phone often since meeting over a week before.

“Hey Anna,” he said, once she’d jumped in. “You look beautiful.”

“Thanks, you look great too.” She smiled and wondered where they were going.

“I’m taking you to my place tonight so I can make you dinner.”

“Oh, you can cook too. I’m liking you more and more.”

He smiled then drew her towards him to indulge in a mind numbing kiss before starting the car.

Chapter 19

Playing Hooky

Monday

Maggie’s reluctance to climb out of her comfortable bed and start the day proved an even harder task after spending two wonderful days with her husband who lay idly beside her, caressing her from head to toe. She couldn’t remember the last time they’d spent an entire weekend off together.

She in return played with the fine mat of hairs on his chest. When her phone rang, she groaned. She hoped this wasn’t bad news. With Lindsay still missing, every moment counted and every phone call could bring news of her demise.

“Johnston.”

“Morning, Mags.”

“Oh, I’m glad it’s you, Hudson. I hoped it wasn’t the call we don’t need right now.”

“I was wondering whether you could cover for me for a couple of hours. I’m going to be a little late.”

“Is something wrong?”

“No, just playing hooky. I need to catch up on some ... sleep.” She heard him clear his throat before mumbling something incoherent, which wasn’t directed at her.

“Sleep, eh?”

“Let’s just say staying where I am at the moment is much more appealing than coming into work.”

She heard him laugh, which was more like a giggle, and a smile tugged at her lips. Looks like Hudson got lucky.

“I know exactly what you mean.” She gazed with longing at her husband. “You can fill me in later. I’ll get up to speed with Andy and Greg and decide our best course of action.”

“Thanks. I owe you one”

“Yeah, you do. See you a bit later.”

“Am I to interpret from your call that the workaholic Hudson is actually going to be late?” Steve asked after she’d hung up.

“Yes, honey, it appears the love bug has bitten my partner.”

* * *

“Now that wasn’t playing fair, Summerville. I was trying to have a serious conversation with my partner,” Lucas said.

“Really serious, Lucas. You’re ditching work. Besides it isn’t my fault you’re so ticklish.” Chelsea tortured him again with her sleek fingers on his ribs. His cackling laugh was too delightful and she craved to hear it over and over.

“Chelsea, stop it,” he managed between breaths. “You have a huge advantage.”

“Would that be that I’m not ticklish?”

“Yes, although I don’t actually believe you. You’re the first girl I’ve ever met that isn’t.” He pinned her wrists above her head and sat lightly astride her to cease her assault on his ribs. When her face contorted in a pained expression, he instantly released her wrists.

“Sorry, babe, was I hurting you?” he asked concerned. Her expression was perplexing.

“No, Lucas, your touch is always gentle. I’m more concerned about how many girls you have actually tested the tickle theory on to know.”

His laugh was spontaneous, bringing her frosty look to the surface, the one he now found completely endearing.

“Chelsea, I already told you there have been ... many.” Her frown cut him short. “They were all hollow, meaningless encounters which meant nothing, unlike you. I must admit, your jealousy is definitely appealing, though.”

“Who didn’t you want me to find out about yesterday?”

“I was hoping you’d forgotten about that.”

“Well, I haven’t.”

“It doesn’t matter.”

“If it doesn’t matter, then you can tell me.”

“Why do you need to know this? I don’t particularly like hearing about your fiancé.”

“Ex-fiancé, and he is the only guy who I ...”

“What?” His mouth twitched briefly in amusement.

“Yes, besides you there’s only been one other.”

He frowned before grinning. “I think I kind of like that.”

“You would. Stop avoiding the issue.”

He sighed. “Fine, but just so it’s clear, I didn’t bring her home so to speak. Carrie came to my apartment. She hadn’t seen me for a few weeks so she came to check up on me and she was there.”

“Who?”

“Maggie.”

“Your partner?”

“Yeah.”

“I thought that would be a no-no.”

“It is. That’s why no-one actually knows about it but Carrie and Nathan.”

“You’re still partnered together, how ...?”

“We parted amicably. She met Steve and got married.”

“Do you ... still ... feel that way?” He laughed, she was simply too adorable.

“No. She’s my partner. I trust her with my life and we’re friends. For the short while we were together, well it was the first time I’d gotten close to anybody since ... anyway, it was only for a few months and it was a while ago now.”

She eyed him suspiciously for a moment, deliberating over his confession. An expression of acceptance crossed her face before she attacked his ribs once again. This time when he managed to grab her wrists between spasms of laughter, he didn’t let go until they were both satisfied.

A few idle hours later, Lucas reluctantly checked the time and decided he should go to work. They had a brutal serial killer to locate before it was too late for Lindsay. Chelsea grudgingly allowed him to leave but continued to stall by showering him with affectionate kisses at the front door.

“I have to go home and change first and I’m so late already. I’ll owe Maggie big time for this.”

“I know I have to let you go but I don’t want to.”

Lucas laughed. All that was missing from her sentence was a childish pout. “Lock the door, beautiful. I’ll call you later.”

She closed the door behind him and locked it as instructed. When she turned around, she was pounced on by Charlotte.

“So, how does it feel to be in love?”

“It feels wonderful.”

Chapter 20

Running Out of Time

Monday

Lucas came armed with a peace offering of a black coffee, placed it on Maggie’s desk and bestowed her with his most charming smile.

“Wow, you look happy and refreshed,” she noted, studying him. “That sleep in obviously did you some good?’

“We both know I wasn’t sleeping in.”

“So, you did get lucky then?”

“I might have.” He smirked at her. “What you working on?”

“Reading over the reports from Andy and Greg, oh and thanks for the suck up coffee by the way.” It was Maggie’s turn to smirk. “Where do we go from here? What did you find out from Chelsea?”

“I have a couple of possible leads to check out, an ex-boyfriend of Chelsea’s, Wesley Robinson, and her delivery driver, Gavin Morgan. At the moment, they seem to be the only people that have a lot of direct contact with her, past or present. The calls she’s been receiving are personal which indicates to me that he knows her and where she lives.”

He tapped away on the keyboard for a few moments while Maggie waited with anticipation. “So, what did you find?”

“This is interesting. Robinson has a sealed juvie record. I’ll request a copy of the file. Nothing came up for Morgan. Chelsea is convinced neither of them could be involved but I’m not taking any chances. I think Lindsay might be running out of time.”

“Agreed, this is her fifth day missing.”

“I’m going to ask Captain Shaw for some uniforms to watch Chelsea’s house and Bloom.”

“Might be a good idea.”

Lucas knocked on Captain Shaw’s office door and waited for his response.

“Enter.”

He went in and sat on the chair opposite and hoped he had enough for his boss’s approval.

“What is it, Hudson?”

“Captain, Maggie and I believe that Chelsea Summerville may be our perp’s target. She has been receiving threatening phone calls.”

“Her resemblance to the victims is certainly a concern.”

“With Elle’s murder and her family’s wealth it doesn’t seem too far of a stretch. We may be wrong but I don’t think we should be taking any chances.”

“Are you talking about twenty-four hour surveillance?”

“Ah, no.”

“I hope you know what you’re doing, Detective.”

Lucas nodded.

Shaw brought a hand to his chin while he mulled it over. Lucas waited impatiently.

“One uniform is all I can give and, as it won’t be continuous protection, the overtime will be justifiable.” He pulled a form from his desk drawer and filled out the acquisition of a uniform for protective duty and handed it to Lucas.

“Thanks, Captain.” Lucas stood and walked over to the door, anxious to organise the officer.

“Lucas,” Shaw called. Lucas turned as he opened the door. “Be careful. I’m turning a blind eye to this and I don’t want egg on my face. Are we clear?”

“Crystal, Captain.”

Shaw offered a curt nod. Lucas set the wheels in motion before returning to his desk.

“Done,” he said Maggie.

“Good. So any other suspects to consider?”

“The only other option I think we may have is one of Chelsea’s regular customers. She’s going to fax me a list of names this morning. She told me they are mainly females though.”

“Have you told her the suspect could be blond?”

“No.”

“Is Robinson blond?”

“Yeah, I was able to get a description but no details of his arrest or photo.”

“So he could be a suspect?”

“Yes, Morgan is also blond but I think it’s unlikely he’s a suspect. The thing we can’t connect him to is the flour. I believe our perp would have to have access to a lot of it to transfer it. I can’t see any reason why Morgan would have this kind of use.”

“I can go and talk to him if you like, just in case?”

“It wouldn’t hurt. See how he reacts to the photos and if he knows any of them. I have Chelsea’s phone records that Andy left for me.” He scanned the document. “It appears all the calls she received were from an untraceable pre-paid phone.” This was why Andy hadn’t called regarding the log - there was nothing to report.

“Of course, have we gotten any sort of break so far? This guy is really covering his bases. He’s definitely been planning this for a while. Should we still be pursuing Matthews?” Maggie said.

“Yes, but I don’t know if we have enough for a court order to compel him to have a DNA test.”

“Hang ten, I’ll make a call,” she said as she picked up the phone.

“It’s done,” she said after she’d hung up. “We’ll have it this afternoon. Someone owed me a favour,” she told him being her only explanation.

“Good, we can have two uniforms pick him up. Let’s hope he’s a match and then we don’t have to look any further.”

“Let’s say he isn’t, should we be looking at the flour angle as well? Perhaps there is a bakery where all three girls went or maybe he’s a customer at the café and he works nearby. What about Robinson? Does it say anything about an occupation?”

“Nothing on screen about Robinson. I’ll ask Chelsea.”

Jumping onto the computer, Maggie looked up all the bakeries in the vicinity of the café. There was only one and it was around the corner. They hadn’t noticed it when they visited the café on previous visits, as they’d come from the other direction.

They found Ben’s Bakery four shops down from the Coffee Break. An appetizing aroma of baking bread and cakes greeted them.

“Can I help you?’ a young assistant asked.

“Yes, I’m Detective Johnson and this is Detective Hudson. Could we ask you a few questions?”

“Sure.”

“Do you have any bakers working here with blond hair?”

“Yes, Chad.”

“Is he here at the moment?”

“No, he’s off today and tomorrow. He’s working on Wednesday.”

Do you know his surname?”

“No, I never asked.”

“Is there someone here who may know?”

“The manager would but he’s at the bank at the moment.”

“Can you tell us anything about Chad?”

“He’s medium height with straight blond hair and blue eyes. He’s very cute and charming but a bit shy. What has he done?”

“Nothing, we just need to talk to him about an investigation.”

“Oh, okay.”

Maggie placed her card on the counter. “Could you have the manager call us when he returns?”

“Sure.”

They decided to ascertain whether any of the staff from the café recognised the name Chad. His description definitely piqued their interest.

After they’d interviewed two of the three waitresses on duty, with neither of them having heard of him or recalled anyone with that description, they were starting to think that they were either looking in the wrong direction or would have to interview the night staff, when they struck gold with the third waitress.

“Yeah I know Chad,” she said. “He’s super sexy. He asked me out last week and said he would make arrangements with me the next day and I haven’t seen him since.”

“When did you last see him?” Lucas asked.

“Um, it was Wednesday. I remember because Adrian wasn’t here so I was able to stand and chat with him for a while without getting in trouble.”

“Would you say he was shy?”

“Absolutely. I saw him watching me for days before he even had the courage to talk to me.”

“Thank you for your help.”

“Is it me or did that waitress resemble someone?” Maggie asked him.

“Yes, she looks a little like Chelsea,” he said with hardened expression.

“He’s blond, a baker and is shy but charming.”

“Sounds exactly like the guy we’re looking for.”

Maggie’s phone rang as they walked to the car. Lucas watched as she listened to the caller.

“We’ll be right there.” She ended the call. “The manager is back at Ben’s”

* * *

“I’ll go get him for you. One moment please,” the assistant said when they walked back in. She disappeared out the back.

About ten minutes later, she returned with a short man in his fifties, with a friendly face and rosy cheeks.

“Sorry to keep you waiting. You’re looking for Chad?”

“Yes sir. Do you have any details for him - surname, address?” Maggie asked.

“Wilson - that’s his surname.”

“Do you have an address on file for him?”

“This is the strange part. His file is missing.”

“It hasn’t been misfiled?’

“No, I checked all the employee records and it’s not there.”

“Do the employees have access to the records?”

“Not normally. Sometimes my office door is open and the cabinet isn’t locked when I’m here, so it’s possible that someone could access them if they wanted.”

“Well, if you could try to find his records for us, that would be helpful.”

“We’ll do our best.

“And we’ll be back to see him when he returns to work on Wednesday.”

“Be my guest. I’m sure he’ll co-operate. He is a good worker.”

When they’d returned to the station, Lucas immediately looked up Chad Wilson, to find no record of him whatsoever.

“This guy is a ghost,” he said when she hung up. “It’s quite possible this is our man. He’s not in the system and has no driver’s licence.”

* * *

What was left of the morning went slowly for Chelsea and Charlotte. Chelsea filled her sister in on her day at the carnival. Charlotte attempted all morning to get the juicier details but Chelsea wasn’t forthcoming.

Chelsea’s phone rang early in the afternoon and she welcomed the distraction. She checked the caller id before answering, to see it was Lucas.

“Hello, Detective,” she said seductively. “I was just talking about you.”

“Oh, were you now? I hope you found something nice to say about me?”

“Absolutely.”

“What are you doing tonight?”

“Just dinner and a movie probably. Then again, there is this sexy guy with hazel eyes I was thinking about inviting over.”

“How would you like it if a certain detective came and spent the night instead?”

“I would say is the day over yet?”

Lucas laughed. “What about the guy with the hazel eyes?”

“He might be busy. You’ll do.”

“You’re in big trouble now.”

“What are you going to do, tickle me?”

“Keep it up and you’ll find out.”

“Empty threats, Detective.”

“We’ll see about that. I’ll come over after work.”

“I suppose you would like dinner too?” she teased.

“I am a simple man who can’t cook.”

“Dinner is at six-thirty. Don’t be late.”

Huskiness filled his voice. “I’ll be there earlier if I can. I miss you already.”

“I miss you too. I went back to bed after you left and I could still smell you in the sheets.”

“Ah, please don’t say anymore. I have to get through the rest of the afternoon and I need to concentrate. Have you received any more calls today?”

“Yes, before I left this morning, just more of the same thing. I think I’m going to stop answering the phone and let the machine pickup.”

“That could be better for us too. We may be able to use the voice recording, if he leaves a message that is. Anyway, an officer should be there shortly.”

“Why?”

“To protect you.”

“Oh, he just walked in.”

“I don’t want you going anywhere without him.”

“Ok, will he be at the house all the time?”

“Except when I’m there.”

“Oh. So, how’s it all going?”

“Well, that is another reason I called. Do you know a guy named Chad Wilson?”

“Name doesn’t ring a bell.”

“Have you ever been to Ben’s Bakery? It’s near the Coffee Break Café.”

“No, I don’t think so. Do you think he is the one doing this?”

“We aren’t sure yet but he seems to fit in with the evidence and he’s a customer at the café.”

“Elle did say she met a guy there as she was coming out one day.”

“Yes, I remember, which only makes him more of a person of interest. We just don’t know where he lives yet.”

“I’m sorry, Lucas but I don’t think I know him.”

“That’s okay, babe. Um, there is one other thing.”

“What is it?”

“As much as I dislike hearing about you with Robinson, I need to know what he did for a living.”

“Oh, he was a law student and worked part time at a sports store.”

“He’s not a chef?”

“Not when I was with him.”

“Ok thanks, babe. I’ll see you tonight.”

“I can’t wait.”

When Lucas returned to his desk, he updated Maggie.

“I guess now we should divide up the victims’ families and friends and ask them about Chad,” suggested Maggie.

“Yeah, hopefully someone remembers him.”

“We got lucky today with the bakery. Maybe we can get lucky again.”

“Let’s hope so, for Lindsay’s sake.”

They divided who was going where and they knew it would take the rest of the afternoon to interview everyone, so they decided to compare notes after the funeral the following day.

Chapter 21

Saying Goodbye

Monday

After going home to change and pack extra clothes, Lucas eagerly drove to Chelsea’s. He chatted briefly at the door with Officer Lewis who informed him there had been no-one suspicious hanging around the house. Lucas asked him to be back early in the morning and sent him home.

He enjoyed another Summerville family dinner with Charlotte divulging all of Chelsea’s secrets, which in turn merely strengthened Lucas’ already growing love. Charlotte also divulged that Chelsea was in fact ticklish, just in a different place to him and he vowed to obtain his revenge later that evening.

After dinner, they all curled up on the couch to enjoy a movie from Chelsea’s collection. Until that very moment, Lucas had forgotten how it felt to belong to a family and the warmth comforted him. Listening to her unrestrained laughter evoked thoughts of replicating it later when he carried out his tickling revenge, which led to thoughts of what would follow. Concentrating on the movie from this moment on became impossible as he waited with impatience for it to end.

Later that night, as they lay in each other’s arms, Chelsea broke their contented peace. “Did you get anywhere today?”

“You had to ask, didn’t you?”

She nodded and remained quiet.

“Kate Miller’s sister, Amy, recognised Chad’s name. Kate mentioned him once in passing after she’d met him in the café. It doesn’t actually lead us anywhere as we still don’t know where he lives. We could be totally off and looking in the wrong direction. We’ll see what happens when we go and see him on Wednesday. Anyway enough about that,” he said lifting her chin so he could look into her eyes. “I believe a just punishment is required for bringing up work and breaking the moment.” He picked up one of her legs with a devilish look in his eye.

“You wouldn’t.”

“It’s only fair. You tormented me this morning.” He lightly brushed behind her knee until she was writhing with uncontrollable laughter. He took pity on her and let her go. She exacted her revenge immediately.

“You’re unbalancing the scales, beautiful. I believe a severe punishment is coming your way.”

Sadness abruptly entered her eyes and tears welled up, threatening to spill over.

“Honey, why are you crying? Did I hurt you? I’m sorry.”

“It isn’t you, Lucas. Elle used to tickle me whenever she wanted info from me. She was amazingly strong for a girl and I was always helpless against her.” She smiled weakly. “The memory reminded me of tomorrow. It’s a good memory, one of many I’ll always cherish, but it made me sad. I don’t want to say goodbye, Lucas. I barely said hello. I miss her so much.” The threatened tears now streamed down her face.

He pulled her close and stroked her hair until her tears subsided. “Are you going to be ok tomorrow?”

“I have to be. Megan, Elle’s sister, was here today and my mum helped her pack up Elle’s things. It hit me today I’ll never see her again. She was a sweet, beautiful friend and had so much to look forward to. She was only twenty-four years old, Lucas. I just don’t understand,” she said. Then she stopped, realising the misery she felt was nothing compared to what he had suffered. “Are you going to be ok? You don’t have to come, if you don’t want, if it’s too hard.”

“Funerals are hard for everyone and I know how important it is to have support from people who care about you. I want to be that person for you.”

“Thanks,” she whispered and kissed him tenderly. The only thing she wanted to think about tonight was how good it felt to be in his arms.

* * *

Her chest rose and fell in the rhythmic breathing of slumber as she lay snuggled against him. Lucas buried his face in her hair to take in her intoxicating aroma as she lay spooned against his body. His heart lurched when she began to make tiny moans as though she was dreaming something pleasant.

He believed she had finally and unexpectedly healed the last of his wounds and repaired the heart he thought had been broken for good. There was little chance of turning back now as he was totally and unconditionally in love with her. The thought of losing her terrified him and, in the past, he would have walked away long before this moment, but there was no running away from Chelsea, not now.

The feelings she evoked in him were ones he’d never come close to experiencing before. Loving and protecting her had become his sole priority in life, his only purpose. Shielding his fragile heart was no longer an option because it belonged to her and for the first time in thirteen years was whole again. Contentment filled his soul as he drifted off to sleep and the last thought that ran through his mind was that since meeting her his nightmares had gone and, he believed, this time for good.

* * *

When Lucas’ phone rang and woke them, they looked at each other and then the clock, and realised that at this early hour it could only be bad news. When Chelsea saw the expression on Lucas’ face, she knew he didn’t liked what he’d heard. Lindsay Anderson was probably dead. He finished his call and looked at her. She took one of his strong, lean hands in hers to offer her support.

“I may be a little late for the funeral but I promise I’ll be there as soon as I can.”

“Is it … is she?” She really didn’t want to know.

“Yes, someone just found a girl who we assume to be Lindsay.”

“I’m so sorry, Lucas.”

He shrugged. Lucas didn’t want Chelsea to know exactly how worried he was. They’d done everything they could to find the monster killing these beautiful young girls but it wasn’t enough and frustration tore through him. He dragged himself out of bed and attempted to wash away the visions swirling around in his mind with a refreshing shower, without reward. After he dressed, he kissed Chelsea goodbye and, with a grim face, braced himself for the task ahead - another brutalised body.

Chelsea went downstairs. Sarah and Charlotte were both up – the latter not totally awake. They’d heard Lucas leave and were concerned.

“Someone found a body which will probably be Lindsay Anderson,” she said.

“Oh how awful,” Sarah said quietly.

“I don’t know how much more of this he can take.”

She told them about Lucas’ parents and how seeing these victims brought back memories he didn’t want to remember.

“That explains the tough guy act,” Charlotte mumbled, still half asleep.

“Yeah but the Lucas I know is doing it tough,” she said.

Chapter 22

Lindsay

Tuesday

Thoughts swirled through Lucas’ mind as he sat in his car at the scene, waiting for Maggie to arrive. How much longer was this going to go on? Was Chelsea a target? To even allow the thought to enter his mind was driving him crazy. It would be too much for his heart to endure if anything were to happen to her.

When Maggie pulled up, he jumped out of his car and they walked towards the back of the warehouse, to the now all too familiar scene. She had been brutalised and discarded identically to the others before her, and the ID confirmed what they’d already assumed.

Once they’d given the unpleasant news to Lindsay’s mother, Lucas told Maggie he was going to Elle’s funeral.

She decided to join him.

* * *

The service was moments away from starting. Chelsea and her family were just about to go in and take their seats in the small, quaint chapel when Lucas and Maggie arrived.

“I’m glad you’re here,” she said, hugging him tightly.

“You need me, I’m here.”

He tried to ignore his rapid beating heart and the lump lodged in his throat. Lucas took her hand once they were seated and wrapped his other arm around her. Glancing around the room and seeing people in various stages of grief sent his already thudding heart into a flurry. He nodded at Maggie who stood at the back of the chapel surveying the mourners. Was the killer there, sitting amongst the family and friends of the girl he mutilated? Could they be that lucky?

Sarah sat beside Chelsea, a comforting hand on her leg while Charlotte’s arm went across their mother’s lap to hold her hand.

The service began and each person took the podium to speak about Elle’s short life. Their faces transformed into the ones who had stood and spoken about his parents. He was there again, the pain acute as he remembered his sister crying beside him, clutching his arm as he’d sat rigid, waiting for it to be over. Although he was aware he should be thinking of Chelsea, his selfish heart and haunting memories refused to allow this to happen.

As though sensing his unease, Chelsea squeezed his hand and guilt became the paramount emotion. He felt weak for allowing his feelings to come before hers. Her compassion for him only exaggerated it further. Disgusted with himself, he drew her close and kissed the top of her head and hoped he was providing her with enough. How, after all these years, could this still affect him and so much? Guilt continued to overwhelm him even after they’d left the chapel.

“Are you going to be alright?” he asked after the service.

“Yes, go to work; find the monster who took my friend away. I have Mum and Charlotte with me. I’ll be fine.”

“I’ll come by later but it might not be until late.”

“I’ll be waiting.” She kissed him before heading to the car with her family.

* * *

Lindsay was moved on the whiteboard from missing to deceased and they noted down the location where she’d been found. There appeared to be no set pattern to the dump sites. They were spread out all over the city. Whilst the girls who were similar to each other were all left behind warehouses, Elle was found behind a shop close to home and they speculated on the relevance of this.

“Wait a minute,” Lucas exclaimed. “Where Elle was dumped is significant, as is her difference in appearance. I think it’s his way of telling us Chelsea really is the target, to mock us again, like the IDs. The scene was right around the corner from their house. He left Elle there to send a message, to show once again he thinks he’s smarter than us. We were right. I’m glad we have someone on Chelsea’s house.”

“You could be onto something, Lucas. The other girls weren’t left near where they lived or nor near where Chelsea lives. Everything about Elle’s murder is different yet it is connected to Chelsea, just like the other girls who resemble her.”

“He seems to know Chelsea’s movements, which suggests he’s either following her or lives close by.”

As they continued to discuss possible places to canvas, one of the lab techs brought the DNA results for Matthews and handed them to Maggie.

She looked over the results and glanced up to see Lucas staring at her impatiently, waiting for the verdict.

“No match.”

“I hoped it would be but my gut told me it wouldn’t.”

“We now have to consider looking closer at this Chad guy when we go and see him tomorrow. He seems to be all we have left.”

“Let’s hope it’s that easy and he’s our man. There’s still Wesley Robinson too. We’re waiting on his file.”

“I’ll head over to the café again and see if anybody recalls seeing this Chad guy. I wish we had a picture of him.”

“While you do that I’ll stay here and go through the notes Peterson and Stewart wrote up regarding their canvassing and the results from the hotline calls.”

Maggie left and Lucas pulled out the file containing the notes taken by the other two detectives over the weekend. Scanning through the document he noticed a trend amongst Chelsea’s neighbours. No-one saw anything the weekend Elle disappeared. They were all devastated that someone in their street had been kidnapped and murdered and most were disappointed they didn’t have any information. No-one noticed a blond man living close by who appeared strange or kept to himself. It was amazing how little people noticed about their surroundings and the people they lived close to.

He observed that there were three houses on Chelsea’s street where, on two separate occasions, at different times and on different days, the detectives' knocks went unanswered. They’d noted down that they should try again the following day. Lucas made a mental note to check their progress as soon as a new report was submitted.

The canvassing around the houses of the other victims was very much the same. No-one really paid any attention to what was happening around them. What he would have given for there to have been a nosy neighbour peeking out their window.

Deciding this wasn’t getting him very far, he grabbed the notes Maggie had taken regarding her interviews with the family members she’d questioned along with her interview with Gavin Morgan.

Lucas had already brought Maggie up-to-date with the interviews he had undertaken the previous day with Mrs. Anderson, Amy Miller and a few of Kate’s friends. The information he’d obtained didn’t helped with their investigation either.

It was all more of the same - none of them had heard of Chad or knew any information about their loved ones' mystery guy. The girls had all been quite secretive about their new romances. It was amazing how he could convince these girls to keep their budding relationship a secret and still gain their trust.

Maggie’s interview with Gavin Morgan had gone as they had both expected. He was a decent family man and didn’t show any recognition when he saw the girls, apart from Elle, and it was a given he would know her from the times she’d worked at Bloom with Chelsea. He wasn’t suspicious in any way and willingly gave a sample for DNA comparison.

Next, Lucas went through the list of hotline tips. Every call had been logged and then followed up. Most of them were the usual crazy calls, confessions and people reporting their neighbours. Nothing substantial came from them either.

He grunted in frustration. They were still getting nowhere. He searched the endless files piled and scattered on his desk to ascertain he’d yet to receive the file on Wesley Robinson. He placed a call, only to be informed he should receive the file in a few days. It was archived and still being retrieved. He shook his head, annoyed at the system for holding things up. They were hitting one dead end after another.

The only thing left to do was check missing persons. Now they’d found Lindsay, it was plausible the killer had kidnapped another girl. There was one hit, a young brunette who’d left her house the previous day and not returned.

Glancing at the time, Lucas discovered he’d spent the entire afternoon reading over the reports, which in the end had been totally unproductive. He would make a detour on the way to Chelsea’s and speak with the latest missing girl’s family.

Chapter 23

Elle

Tuesday

Drained from an emotionally raw morning, Chelsea’s head ached and her eyes stung. Upon arriving home, she decided to rest. After a dream-filled nap, she located Charlotte and Sarah outside eating their lunch and enjoying the sunshine. Chelsea, suddenly famished, tucked into the sandwiches and iced tea lovingly prepared by Sarah.

“Are you feeling better, honey?” Sarah asked.

“Yes, much better.” She managed a slight smile. “I hope I don’t have to do that again in a hurry.”

“It’s never easy to say goodbye to someone you love.”

“As much as I loved Elle very much and I’ll miss her a lot, I can’t even imagine what it would be like to be a family member. I don’t know how Lucas coped with the loss of his parents or stayed so strong for me today.”

“Lucas had Carrie.”

“I really don’t think he has ever gotten over it. I believe his initial bluntness towards me was unconscious. He has been so busy pushing everyone away, it became an automatic reaction, almost a natural response to attraction.”

“He’s taking a chance with you, Chelsea, which indicates to me it’s getting easier for him, although it has taken the poor boy an awfully long time to get over it. I remember when your father lost your Gran, he was heartbroken for quite a while, and he was an adult. I can’t imagine how a young man could deal with such a tragic loss, and witnessing the aftermath too.” She shook her head in disbelief at the horror. “I feel for Carrie too as she, being the eldest, would’ve needed to be strong enough for both of them. Perhaps, in the end, this made it easier for her.”

“I can barely imagine it, much less live through the ordeal. I think Lucas is amazing. He has a strength I can’t comprehend and I admire him for it.” Chelsea stopped and stared into the garden for a few moments. “I would like to find someone else to live here but feel like I would be replacing Elle.”

“You‘ll never replace her, dear, but it’s nice to have company too.”

“Maybe Lucas will move in with you,” Charlotte said, pushing love, as always.

“I think it is a bit soon for that, don’t you?” Chelsea asked.

“Is there a time limit on falling in love? The only thing that is going to change is the intensity.”

“That wasn’t the case with Wes. He just upped and left.”

“Wes was different and there was always something about him that felt wrong.”

“That’s what Pa said. What felt wrong was he didn’t love me. I don’t want to take the chance as quickly this time.”

“I think it’s too late for that,” Charlotte informed her. “You’re already in love with him. I can tell by the goofy look on your face all the time, even in grief.”

“Yes, I suppose it’s too late.” She smiled.

Deciding that a lazy afternoon relaxing in the yard was essential, a bottle of champagne was opened and instead of mourning Elle, they resolved to celebrate her life. The first glass after their toast began to lift their spirits somewhat. They avoided talking about death and the evil lurking out there somewhere. Knowing there was an officer at the front door and that they could still sit unseen in the private back garden helped alleviate Chelsea’s fears a little.

Chelsea told stories about Elle and her memories of their time together, which lightened her heart. This was definitely the best way to say goodbye to Elle and she thanked Charlotte for thinking of it. Chelsea knew Elle would have appreciated this much more than the gloominess of bereavement.

The sun began to descend and the dusk regaled them with pinks and purples. Chelsea thought it a fitting way to end the day she’d said goodbye to her friend. Darkness ended their outdoor party. They moved inside and Sarah prepared dinner. The girls opened another bottle of champagne. Chelsea, feeling tipsy, began giggling hysterically at everything Charlotte said and an overwhelming happiness consumed her. She couldn’t wait for Lucas to arrive. She missed him and longed to share the celebrations and her champagne buzz with him.

* * *

After discovering the missing girl had actually packed her things and simply left, Lucas drove to Chelsea’s house. His frustration and confusion grew from the endless dead ends and because, as far as they knew, another girl hadn’t been abducted. Although this pleased him somewhat, he was suspicious nonetheless. Surely he wasn’t finished? Could he have simply stopped? Killers this bloodthirsty rarely stopped unless captured - escalation was usually the norm. They would need to check missing persons again in the morning.

He forced thoughts of the killer from his mind. His excitement grew as he thought of his girl. He wondered how she was fairing after her difficult ordeal. Funerals, although a good way to say goodbye, were never pleasant.

The girls were cleaning up when Lucas entered after dismissing Officer Lewis. He could hear them playfully fighting, their squeals and giggles a wonderful welcome. He crept quietly in their direction and winked at Sarah, sitting at the table, on the way past. He watched as Chelsea and Charlotte, while attempting to wash the dishes, flicked bubbles and water at each other.

“I hope I won’t have to arrest you two for disturbing the peace,” Lucas said, coming into kitchen. They both squealed again, this time with fright. “I’m sure only dogs can hear you, though.”

“Lucas!” Chelsea said giddily. “Are you going to use your handcuffs, Detective?” She sidled over to him with her arms up, wrists together and his desire was instantaneous. How does she do it to me?

“As much as the idea appeals to me, I think I want to kiss you.” He pulled her roughly to him to give her a kiss filled with urgency.

“Okay, I think that is my cue to leave,” Charlotte groaned. “You can finish the dishes.”

Lucas lifted a hand to her hair to remove the bubbles lingering there.

“It’s about time you got here. I’ve missed you.” She kissed him again. “And from what I can tell, you missed me too.” She smiled seductively.

“I should be late more often then. You seem happier than I expected, this being a good thing by the way.”

“We were celebrating Elle with some bubbly and I guess I’m a little tipsy.”

“I like it.”

“You’ll like it more later,” she purred.

“I want to like it now.” He grabbed her hand and all but dragged her to the stairs.

“Good night,” she said cheerily to Sarah and Charlotte as they hurried past.

* * *

“I want to know everything about you,” Chelsea said as they lay entwined. “Tell me something, anything.”

“There isn’t much to tell.” He didn’t want to taint this life with anything from before her.

“Who was your first girlfriend?” He stiffened.

“Did I say something wrong?”

“No.”

“I promise I won’t be jealous ... much.”

“I had no life before you.”

“Lucas, as sweet as that is, I want to know.”

“I was with Stacy the night my parents died. She was my first ... everything. That night was the first time for us both. I was late because ... well you know. Anyway, it probably saved my life. I broke up with her the next day. I felt guilty, ashamed that I was getting my rocks off while ...”

“Oh well, I’m glad you were late.”

“That’s what Carrie says. I haven’t had or wanted a serious relationship since then, until now.”

“Really?”

“Yes I never want to go through that again.”

“You mean you’re serious about us? I know we’ve only known each other a week, but it feels right being with you. I know that’s crazy.”

“Yeah it is a bit but I feel the same.” He paused and his voice turned serious. “Promise me you won’t leave the door unlocked again, like it was tonight. I know the officer is on the door ...”

“I promise. I’m sorry, it's habit keeping it open.”

“So are you okay after this morning?”

“Yes. I know Elle wouldn’t have wanted me moping around. She would be really happy for us.” Her voice broke.

“I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have brought it up.”

“I need and want to be able talk about her. I’ll miss her a lot but she’s gone and there is nothing I can do but remember her.” She lifted her head to look into his eyes. “I’m sorry I made you come to the funeral today. It must have been difficult.”

“At first I thought I wasn’t going to be able to handle it but then guilt took over.”

“It wasn’t your fault, what happened to them.”

“That wasn’t why I felt guilty.”

“Why then?” She searched his face with her trusting green eyes and the words tumbled out.

“I was thinking about myself and not you. I kept wondering why my memories aren’t happy ones, why I have never gotten over this. I thought I had, until this case and today. It is the first funeral I’ve been to since. Thinking of them still brought pain. I thought I was over it, it was so long ago, but these murders have rehashed all the anger and pain that I pushed aside for all these years. I’ve been in homicide for five years but never have I come across a case so callous, so similar to their deaths. I learned to switch off and focus only on the case and never allowed any feelings to surface. Maybe I would have dealt with it sooner if I was confronted with something like this before. There were many times I thought I wouldn’t make it through but somehow managed to bury it all, until last week. I have never allowed myself to grieve and I think this is why my memories are painful. I don’t want them to be. I want to be happy when I remember them. It’s time to move on.”

“I’m sorry I asked you to come. It was selfish of me.”

“No, Chelsea, I should never have let my feelings get in the way of being there for you. I’m upset with myself.” She lay silent for a moment.

“Tell me about them.” She waited, wondering whether he was going to speak, until he cleared his throat.

“My Dad was a good man but had trouble showing his feelings. We were close in the usual distant father-and-son type way. Mum ...” He cleared his throat again.

“It’s okay, I thought it would help. You don’t have to say anymore.”

“It does help. Mum and I were close. She possessed all the qualities I admire in a person - unconditional love, empathy and passion. I’m more like Dad, though. In many ways I wish I was more like her.”

“Lucas, you are. Your passion is why you are who you are. It is very much a part of you. Your inability to let yourself feel or express those emotions is how you differ. You feel them all, you just never let them out.”

“Where were you when I needed you all these years?”

“Waiting for you.” She smiled at him and he lent down to kiss her.

“I’ll do everything I can to find the guy who did this, Chelsea. I can’t bear the thought of anything happening to you. This is my promise to you.”

She kissed him, then tickled his ribs. “Enough talking, Detective. I think it’s time for you to show me that passionate side of yours again.”

“You are insatiable.”

“Are you complaining?” she asked with an eyebrow cocked.

“Not one bit.”

Chapter 24

Anna Jones

Wednesday

Discovering another missing girl on the database filled Lucas with dismay. After reluctantly leaving Chelsea that morning, he’d gotten to the station early to find his hunch was correct, the killer wasn’t slowing down. Although he didn’t know for sure if Anna Jones had been taken by their perp, it appeared more than likely. Her disappearance was reported on Tuesday morning but hadn’t been entered before he’d left the previous day. He frowned. If only he’d known yesterday he could have chased it up the previous evening.

Anna, a short slim brunette with blue eyes, had left her parents' house on Monday night supposedly to meet with a friend. However, according to the notes, her sister Sophie thought she was meeting with her new boyfriend. Even though her personal possessions hadn’t been left behind like the others, Anna still could have been targeted.

Maggie wandered in, armed with breakfast and sat waiting for an update, so Lucas told her about Anna. After placing a call to learn Sophie was at home, they arranged to meet with her to follow up on the disappearance.

When Sophie Jones answered the door, Lucas’ heart stopped. Standing before them was another Chelsea look-alike and a spitting image of the photo from the file. For a moment he stood confused. Perhaps Anna had come home and then the penny dropped. Anna and Sophie were identical twins.

“Please come in, Detectives.”

“We may be going over some of the same questions as the officer who took your statement, but we need to confirm some details,” Maggie said.

“That’s fine. My parents and I reported her together and they aren’t here at the moment.”

“That’s ok. If we need to ask them anything, we can come back.”

“Ok.”

“So the last time you saw Anna was Sunday night?”

“That’s right. She told my parents she was meeting a friend but I knew she was going to meet her new boyfriend.”

“Did she tell you this?”

“No, but I knew. I also heard her on the phone. I asked her and she denied it, which surprised me, but I still knew.” She started to cry.

“What is it?” Maggie asked.

“Something terrible is happening to her, I can feel her ... terror. It’s a twin thing.”

“Do you know his name?” Lucas asked her.

“No.”

“Can you tell us anything about him?” Maggie took over.

“No. We usually tell each other everything too but this time, nothing. What is it, Detectives? Where is my sister?”

“We think she may have been taken by ....”

“Not the killer on the news, ‘The Spoilt Slayer’?” Lucas cringed at the name; the media really possessed no conscience.

“We think so, yes.”

“Oh God.” She began to cry again, then stopped abruptly. “She’s still alive, I can feel it. How long ... how much time do you have to find her?”

“Maybe a few days. We’re doing everything we can. If you can think of anything, even the smallest detail, it could help.”

“From what I overheard, this was their second, maybe third, date and she was meeting him at the bus stop round the corner. So when she told us she was meeting her friend, Sandra, in the city, my parents didn’t think it was strange that she left on foot because she often catches the bus. When I asked her about him as she left, she denied it again. This is the first time ever that she hasn’t confided in me.”

* * *

They added Anna to their whiteboard under the suspicion of being the latest girl to be abducted. Peterson and Stewart were dispatched to interview Anna’s friends, particularly Sandra, and then the occupants of the houses near the bus stop where she had been collected. They hoped someone had at least seen Anna getting into his car. Lucas couldn’t believe how time and again the perp remained unseen, how he was always one step ahead of them.

Lucas and Maggie went to Ben’s Bakery again to follow up on Chad. The girl they’d interviewed on Monday greeted them again.

“Hi, Detectives.”

“Is Chad here today?” Maggie asked.

“He was.”

“Where is he?”

“He left.”

“Isn’t he supposed to be working?”

“Yes but after about fifteen minutes or so he left.” Lucas noted her sheepish look and knew exactly why Chad had left.

“Did you tell him we’d been here looking for him?”

“Yes, I’m sorry. I didn’t realise he would leave.”

“Did Chad’s file turn up?” Lucas asked.

“No.”

“Do you mind if we send our sketch artist around to do a composite.”

“No, not at all, detectives.”

* * *

She found his note on what she now considered his pillow. Chelsea smiled at his handwriting - neat and precise - the opposite of his ruffled appearance. Still smiling she read his note.

Good morning, Beautiful,

Sorry I didn’t wake you to say goodbye. I wanted to but then we both would’ve been late.

I realised last night, we haven’t been out on an official date, which is very remiss of me, so I’m formally asking you to dinner this evening.

I will collect you at seven, wear your best dress, sweetheart, I have decided it’s time I pampered you.

Till then, know I think about you every minute we are apart.

Your new romantic,

Lucas.

Clutching the note to her chest like a schoolgirl, she leaped out of bed immediately eager to start the day so it could be over. She ate a hasty breakfast while continuously urging Charlotte along so they could leave. Then to add to her frustration, Wednesday was usually her quietest day at Bloom. She busied herself by completing more arrangements than she needed to and by changing the window display three times. Charlotte answered the few phone calls that came in.

“Chels, I really don’t know why you are so excited about this evening. It isn’t like you have to impress him or anything. You’ve already bagged him.”

“Nice expression, Charlotte.”

“Well, I don’t get it.”

“I want tonight to be special and I’m always excited about seeing him.”

“Well your constant rearranging and time wasting is making me tired just watching you.”

Chelsea decided Charlotte was right as her fruitless attempts at passing the day away was getting her nowhere. If they left early, it would give her plenty of time to prepare for her date.

“You’re right, let’s go home and pick out my dress.”

Charlotte rolled her eyes. “Finally.”

Charlotte drove home because she didn’t trust her anxiety-filled sister to keep them on the road. Chelsea thought about the evening ahead and although they’d been out together before, this was different, special, and she aimed to ensure they remembered their evening together.

She enjoyed a long, relaxing bath before going through her wardrobe three times and determining she needed Charlotte’s help. Finding her downstairs, leisurely thumbing through a magazine, she recruited her for the task.

“Okay, so these are the best three,” Charlotte said.

She held up a slinky black cocktail dress, a deep green flowing dress and a fiery red strapless figure hugging dress that Chelsea hadn’t even considered.

“Now it depends on what look you’re going for.”

“I don’t know about the red one, Charlotte. It isn’t really ... me.”

“Then why did you buy it?”

“I think you actually talked me into it one day.”

“You didn’t answer my question.”

“Something memorable.”

“Then the green one is out - way too sensible.”

“I don’t know about red.”

“More reason to wear it.”

“I think the black.”

“Try them on for me and then we’ll decide.”

Chelsea went with the black first and felt wonderfully sexy as it swirled around her knees. The thin straps, figure hugging bodice and flowing skirt were simple but pretty.

“It’s nice, Chels, and you look pretty, but sexy is what you need.”

“It’s dinner, Charlotte. Besides I don’t want sexy. I don’t actually need to seduce him.”

“Yes, but you want him thinking about how great you look through dinner. The anticipation is wonderful.”

“Fine, I’ll try the other one.” She grabbed the red dress Charlotte was dangling in front of her and put it on. She glanced in the mirror to see that it looked both sexy and much classier than she thought. Perhaps it was the better choice and she wouldn’t look like a tramp after all.

“Oh, now that looks great on you. Not what you thought at all, is it?”

“No, I thought I was going to look like a ... floozy, for lack of a better word.”

“You look sexy and classy - great combo.”

“Ok, you win. Can you help me with my hair?”

Chapter 25

First Date

Wednesday

After trying on his fourth tie and shirt combination, Lucas laughed at himself. Knowing he didn’t have to impress Chelsea didn’t detract from the fact he wanted to. Although they’d dined together several times, this was their first official date alone and he was determined that it should be memorable. Finally settling on a combination that happened to be the first he had tried, he checked the time to discover he had better go and collect his date.

As he drove, he thought about how much he’d changed in just a week since meeting Chelsea. Under normal circumstances, if there was an open case, he wouldn’t be going out and having fun; he would’ve been working around the clock on minimal sleep. The workaholic Lucas he had once been would never have left the case for other detectives to follow up. He realised for the first time ever he felt relieved and happy knowing Peterson and Stewart were taking up some of the slack.

The extra detectives manning the phones had been busy since the story had aired so prominently on the news, and the calls and anonymous tips were pouring in. Each tip was being followed up and Lucas knew these files would be ready for them each day. The sketch of Chad Wilson was already in and he resolved to show it to Chelsea the following day. Even if she were to recognise him, did it mean anything? Only if Chad was Wesley, Lucas decided, otherwise it just confirmed that Chad went to the café from time-to-time. He had begun to really despise Wes and what he had done to Chelsea. Had he finished with her yet? He was having his severe doubts.

He felt his focus was slipping and it was important that he keep his head on the job. Tomorrow he would re-focus. He didn’t want the case to taint the evening ahead. There was nothing more they could do, so he decided there was nothing wrong with living his life to the full for a change. He’d dedicated twelve years of his life to the force, to helping others; he deserved to be happy. Lucas couldn’t remember ever being this content, at least not since his parents' death anyway.

He walked nervously to her front door and laughed again. He was actually experiencing first date jitters.

* * *

Chelsea had been waiting anxiously for her date to arrive, repeatedly asking herself why was she so nervous. Finally judging her apprehension to be ridiculous, she sat down to stop herself from pacing. His familiar knock sent her darting out of the chair to answer the door.

* * *

Nothing could have prepared Lucas for the sight that met his eyes when Chelsea answered the door. The vision before him reduced him to abject silence and wonderment.

* * *

Lucas looked incredible. He was wearing a black suit she hadn’t seen before. His shirt was also black. His tie, patterned in different tones of blue, contrasted wonderfully. When she gazed into his face, his expression was unreadable and she feared she’d been right about the dress after all. “I told Charlotte this dress was all wrong. I’ll just go and change.” She turned to leave.

“No, wait!”

She looked at him again, puzzlement furrowing her brow.

“You look beautiful and incredibly sexy. Please don’t change it.”

“You were looking at me kind of weird.”

“Yeah, I guess I probably was.” He blushed and she smiled. “I was trying to get control myself so we could still go to dinner. You have no idea how beautiful you are.”

“Oh.”

He kissed her tenderly.

“Shall we go?” He took her hand and she nodded.

His choice of restaurant surprised Chelsea - expensive and romantic, or so she’d heard. Anton’s reputation spoke for itself.

“Lucas, you don’t have to go to so much trouble and my budget doesn’t quite stretch this far.”

“Chelsea, let me do this for you.”

“Okay, I’ve heard the food is good. Have you been here before?”

“Yes, I eat out a lot. Well, at least I did.”

They were greeted by the maître d' who directed them to a small private booth in the corner. The dim lighting glowed from candles on each table, setting the mood. The furniture, in deep dark wood and varying shades of red, surrounded her with instant warmth. Waiting for them was champagne in an ice bucket. Their waiter placed menus in front of them, filled their glasses and then discreetly disappeared.

“I can see why this place has such a good reputation.”

“Hmm.”

She studied the menu for a moment before speaking again. “So you said you’ve been here before?”

“Yes.”

“Oh.”

“I love it when you get jealous. I came with Carrie and Nathan.”

“Did I ask?” She peered at him over her menu.

“You didn’t have to. You get this tone when you are trying to find out things you think I haven’t told you.”

“I’m sure there are lots of things you haven’t told me. You know everything about me and I don’t know anywhere near as much about you.”

“You know all you need to. The things I don’t tell you are better kept that way. I ... don’t want the past to get in the way of our future. If there is anything you really want to know, all you have to do is ask.”

“Since we met, you’ve only stayed with me. How come you haven’t invited me to your apartment?”

“I like your house better - you’re there.” She glared at him. “Because my place is ... part of my old life and you are part of the new.”

A waiter came to take their order. Once he was gone, Lucas turned to find her frowning.

“Babe, this is why I don’t want to talk about this stuff, because you look at me that way. I wanted tonight to be special and I don’t want to ruin it with my blemished record.”

“Lucas, I don’t care about before because I understand why you were so closed off from everyone, but I want to see where you live. It is a part of who you are.”

“If I take you there, will you stop asking questions?”

“Maybe.” She smirked. “I’m sorry if I’m being too pushy. I tend to do that ... you ... I ... like being with you.”

“I know. Me too.”

They ate in companionable silence, Lucas’ eyes pouring into hers. It took all his restraint to control his overwhelming desire aroused by her stunning little red dress. Over coffee he intentionally kept their conversation light to stop his mind from drifting. He wanted love not lust to be the dominant emotion, at least for now.

The quiet continued on the short drive to his apartment. After he showed her in, he watched her as she wandered around. Once her inspection was complete, she came to sit down on one of two chairs in his small living room.

“I told you there wasn’t much to it. I don’t spend a lot of time here.”

“It’s not what I expected.”

“More furniture perhaps?”

“Yes, but you’re neat.”

“Mostly. See, now you’re here, it really does feel like an empty space, not a real home like you have. It suited my life, simple and empty, but I guess you couldn’t call what I did before living really - just existing.”

“I know I’m probably moving too fast for you and I still can’t believe I’ve only known you a week, but my life was pretty lonely before too.”

“I want to show you something.”

She watched him go into what she’d guessed was his bedroom and returned carrying a book.

“Carrie gave me this journal for my eighteenth birthday. I started writing in it from that day, just before I was accepted into the force. There are entries in there up until last week - twelve years of my life. Writing everything down, well it helped keep me sane. I don’t think I need to write in it anymore. I have you now instead.” He passed it to her. “I want you to have it. Now that sounds crazy,” he mumbled.

“Lucas, this is personal. I couldn’t.”

“Please take it. Maybe you won’t ask me so many questions. I just hope you’ll still look at me the same way after you have read it, but it’s a chance I’m willing to take because I want you to. I need you to know the connection we have. I’ve never felt it before.”

“Okay.” She took it from him and he stood awkwardly next to the chair opposite hers.

She opened it to the first page to find the same neat handwriting she had seen in his note that morning. She read the first entry before skipping along and choosing a few random pages to skim, vowing to read it all when time permitted. He trusted her with his most private thoughts and she would value every word. The few entries she read were filled with confusion, angst and loneliness.

The Lucas she saw within the leather bound book was a shattered man and different from the one man who stood waiting for her to accept him faults and all. He was revealing all of himself to her and he now feared she wouldn’t accept him. Her heart broke for him and then swelled. Allowing her into his life this way, she knew was something he’d sworn never to do but still did regardless. Lucas had taken a huge step this evening and he was terrified. She gazed up to find his eyes downcast and his face contorted in embarrassment and anticipation. He was waiting for her acceptance.

She placed his secrets carefully on the small table in front of her and walked over to him, removing her shoes on the way. She stood on tiptoe and cupped his face. He lifted his eyes but the tortured look remained.

“Thank you for trusting me with your life. I know how difficult this is for you.”

“Even if I wanted to stay away from you, I don’t think I could.”

He scooped her up, sat down in the chair and settled her in his lap. She rested her head on his shoulder and he played with the curls tumbling down from the twist in her hair.

She didn’t know how long they sat there together, content with each other’s silent company. Loneliness had lived with them both for too long. When he cleared his throat, she waited for the serious detective Lucas to speak.

“Babe, I don’t want to break the moment but I need you to promise me something.”

“Anything.”

“Please be careful.”

“I promise. What is it?”

“We think another girl has been abducted by ... him and she ...” He stopped.

“Let me guess, she looks like me again.”

“Yes, that is why the officer will stay watching your house.”

“I just don’t understand why this is happening.”

“Neither do we, which isn’t good.”

“I think for bringing up work, it’s your turn to be punished.” She poked him in the ribs until he giggled.

“You’re in trouble now.” He stood up and carried her to his bed.

* * *

When she woke surrounded by darkness, it took her a moment to orient herself. Accustomed to either moonlight or the morning sun lighting her room, it was strange to wake in Lucas’ dim apartment. Chelsea waited for her eyes to adjust to the night and then, with caution, made her way to the kitchen.

She searched several empty cupboards until she found a glass for water. How does he live in such a vacant home? There wasn’t any food in the cupboards and the fridge only contained a jug of water, a few bottles of beer and food not fit for human consumption. It was little wonder he’d dined with her every night, he really didn’t cook. Her heart ached at his lonely life and she resolved to ensure he didn’t live this way any longer. Lucas had been closed off to the world long enough.

She tiptoed back to his room and found she hadn’t disturbed him. She lay close to him so she could watch him sleep. His handsome face appeared untroubled as he slept and she hoped his fragile heart was finally healed. Her own heart lurched and fear seized her chest for a brief moment. Would he stick around or leave like Wes? Would his fear overcome him?

She thought back to her Pa’s words about knowing when you’d found the one, and she realised his words were true. She did know and Lucas was it. Did he feel the same? Was he as in love with her as she was with him? Her answer to this question was the leather bound journal which meant he trusted her with his life, which in turn meant he trusted her with his heart. Cuddling in close, she breathed in his scent as she drifted off to sleep.

* * *

Although waking up to Chelsea sleeping in his bed was strange, it was also wonderful. Sleeping in his bed from here on in would be a pleasure, and his unpleasant, empty past would be erased and replaced with her. He kissed her gently to wake her up. Her eyes fluttered open and she smiled.

“Time to wake up, babe. I want to get an early start.”

She groaned and buried her face in the pillow. She turned to look at him again with desire in her eyes.

“Your bed smells delicious, like you.”

This time he groaned. “Have a shower with me.”

Chapter 26

Loss

Thursday

After reluctantly depositing Chelsea safely at home, Lucas drove to work in a dream and smiled at his whimsical behaviour. He never thought he could feel this wonderful.

At the station he read through the thick file of calls received on the hotline over the past few days to see if any of the information was of any use. As always, they mostly revolved around anonymous callers either falsely confessing to the crime or ratting out someone against whom they held a grudge. All calls would be followed up but, once he’d read through the entire file, experience told him that the majority of them were a total waste of time, again.

He noted down what he thought were potentially legitimate tips and placed them onto Peterson’s desk for follow up that afternoon when he arrived for his shift.

He was on the phone with the ME when Maggie came in. She’d called him earlier that morning asking him to cover her for a few hours as the return favour. He decided to use the time to get up to speed and organise the day.

“Dave’s finished with Lindsay’s autopsy. He found a hair in the rape kit and it’s being processed as we speak, we should have the results by tomorrow.”

“Anything else new?’

“No, the rest was the same. I went through the tip line stuff but there isn’t much there. Still no file on Robinson and I cannot find anything on Chad Wilson. I placed a few calls but he’s not on any systems, so it has to be an alias.”

“Did Chelsea recognise him?”

“Dammit.”

“What?”

“I meant to do it this morning but got distracted. Sorry, my head hasn’t been in the game. I’ll show her tonight.”

“We really haven’t caught any breaks so far. She may not even know him and, if she does, she might not know where he lives. She didn’t recognise his name so it is quite possible she has never met him. Either that or it is an alias. If she has never met him, it just makes it all the more confusing. Why would he be after her? However, if she recognises him she might be able to give us his real name,” Maggie said.

“Yeah, maybe. I have been wondering the same things myself. It doesn’t make any sense.”

“It may be another dead end anyway. In the meantime let’s keep looking. Throw me the files from Peterson regarding their canvassing. I’ll see if there is anything we can follow up.”

“Do you want to read in the car? I’ve lined up some of the victims' family and friends to re-interview regarding Chad Wilson.”

“Sure no problem.”

* * *

“As much as I love having you both here, you have lives and stuff to do at home. You don’t need to babysit me anymore. I’ll be alright,” Chelsea told Sarah and Charlotte over breakfast.

“You really shouldn’t be here alone,” Sarah informed her.

“I won’t be.”

“No, Mum, Chelsea has a permanent visitor now. He practically lives here anyway so you may as well ask him to move in as I suggested.”

“Why would I have Officer Lewis move in here?” Chelsea winked at Sarah.

“Very funny, Chels, but we all know who I was talking about.”

“Still too soon, Charlotte. I am crazy about him though.”

“Are you sure you’ll be ok?”

“Yes, Mum. It’s a slow time of year for Bloom so I can take a week or so off if I need to.”

“You will be alone in the house all day. Wouldn’t you like the company?”

“I’ll find something to do. I have a ... new book I want to read.”

“I have to go back to Uni anyway, Mum.”

“Alright we’ll go on Saturday then, which still gives us another two days together.”

The phone rang and they all stared at it.

“Did it ring when I wasn’t here yesterday or last night?”

“No.” Sarah said.

They let the answering machine pick up and the only message left was a hang up.

“Maybe he’ll stop ringing if I don’t pick up,” Chelsea said. “I just don’t know who could possibly be doing these terrible things to those poor girls. Lucas told me another girl has gone missing.”

“In that case, we're not leaving, Chelsea, not until this is over,” Sarah said.

Chelsea went to protest until the thought of being in an empty house all day depressed her.

“I just don’t want everyone to put their life on hold for me.”

“We aren’t. Think of it as a little holiday together,” Charlotte said.

“Ok, I just hope they catch him soon.”

Determined to occupy their minds with other things, they chose to watch a romantic comedy playing at the local cinema and follow it up with lunch at their favourite cafe.

They arrived home feeling buoyant and relaxed until the phone rang again. They were relieved when they heard Lucas’ voice on the machine. Chelsea went to answer it.

“Hey, have you been receiving more calls?”

“How did you know?”

“You didn’t answer the phone straight away.”

“Only one and they hung up, or he did, if it was him.”

“Don’t answer it. You didn’t go to Bloom today?”

“No, I have decided to take a week off.”

“Good idea. Are your family staying too?”

“Yes, I told them to leave but they won’t.”

“Good, I don’t want you to be alone. I’m going to be later than I thought tonight. We have a lot to follow up.”

“Ok, I’ll keep some dinner for you.”

“Thanks. You do look after me. I miss you.”

“Me too.”

* * *

When a car pulled up out the front of the house, Officer Lewis stood up. A man strolled towards him carrying a package. At last something to do, he thought. Even though guarding Chelsea’s house bored him, he knew how important it was. He took his duties seriously and kept his mind occupied for the most part watching diligently at the house and shop for any suspicious characters who might be Chelsea’s stalker.

As the man approached, he rested one hand on his weapon.

“Good evening, Officer.” The man with the package stopped and smiled. “I have a delivery for,” he paused to check the clipboard in his hand, “Chelsea Summerville.”

“I can take that for you.”

“Oh, it’s just that it says here she needs to sign for it personally. I’m only helping out today for a friend and I really think I should make sure. That’s why I’m in my car rather than the usual delivery van.”

“Sorry, Sir, but I’ll have to take it.” Lewis reached forward to take the package and left his other hand near his gun.

“That really isn’t the answer I wanted.”

Lewis heard the quiet pop a second before he felt the bullet tear through his flesh. Blood gushed from the wound in his stomach. As he withdrew his weapon from his holster, the man dropped the package to reveal his gun. Another silenced shot sounded and Lewis gasped as the bullet hit his throat. He dropped to his knees, trying to breathe as blood filled his lungs. He fell heaving, drowning, as the man walked to the door and knocked.

* * *

They were about to sit down to dinner, when the knock came. Chelsea bounced happily to answer the call, excited to see Lucas.

“I thought you were going to be late,” she sang out as she reached the entranceway. “I think you purposely turn up just as we are about to have,” she opened the door, “dinner.” She stopped.

“Not who you were expecting?”

She was speechless for a moment.

“Who are you?” Chelsea asked.

“Aren’t you going to ask me in?”

“No, why would I?” she said abruptly.

“You’re polite and perhaps interested to know who I am and why I’m here.”

“I don’t really care, to be honest. Perhaps you should leave.” Her words belied the fact that her heart was pounding wildly in terror.

“I told you I was coming for you.”

“It was you making those horrible calls?”

“Yes, Chelsea, it was and it’s time you came with me.”

She started to back away as Charlotte and Sarah rushed over to come and stand behind her.

He reached behind him to pull a large pistol with a silencer attached from the back of his waistband.

“Back away you two,” he said, pointing it at her family. “She’s coming with me and if you try to stop me, I’ll shoot you. If you call the police, I’ll shoot her. I wanted to kill her slowly but if I have to, I will shoot her now.”

“Why are you doing this?” Sarah asked. She guided Charlotte back with her hand, as she took small steps backwards herself, as cautioned.

“You’re all spoilt rich bitches who deserve to find out what it feels like to have nothing, to suffer loss. Now turn around,” he said to Chelsea.

She turned her back to him, urging her family with her eyes to stay where they were.

“Now say goodbye to your family, Chelsea,” he told her.

He grabbed her with his free arm, yanked her tightly against his body and shoved the gun roughly against her ribs.

“Please don’t do this.”

“Don’t beg, Chelsea. It doesn’t suit you,” he said.

He started to back out the door. Charlotte ripped herself free from her mother’s protective arm. “You’re not going anywhere,” she said.

“I warned you,” he replied. He lifted the gun, aimed it at Charlotte and fired.

Chelsea watched in dismay as Charlotte flew back as the bullet penetrated her shoulder. She screamed her name in vain as he dragged her out the door, urging her towards the awaiting car. Chelsea bit back a scream when she saw Officer Lewis lying in a pool of blood by the front door.

* * *

Sarah bent down to attend to Charlotte, who was conscious and bleeding profusely. She went to retrieve some towels.

“Press this hard against you,” Sarah said. “Try to reduce the flow while I call the ambulance.”

“He said not to call the police,” she said, her voice strained. “He’ll kill her.”

“I’m not calling the police, I’m calling an ambulance and the police will come regardless. We have to take the chance, Charlotte, or you’re going to bleed to death.”

Sarah called the ambulance, returned to Charlotte and anxiously waited for the authorities to arrive.

* * *

There was a call over the radio about a shooting and Lucas was only half listening. When the dispatcher stated the address for the nearest officers to respond to, his heart plunged to the floor and he thought for a moment he’d heard it wrong. He could have sworn the dispatcher had just said Chelsea’s address. When the address was confirmed by the responding officer, he fired up his siren and drove like he was running from the gates of hell.

He pulled up hastily and double parked beside a squad car. An ambulance was already at the scene. As he leapt out of the car he glanced towards the house and saw a body being loaded onto a gurney. He bolted towards the house where he found a young officer on duty at the door.

“Officer Lewis?” Lucas asked.

The rookie nodded. “We were just about to call you...”

Lucas ignored him now and stormed passed.

“Chelsea,” he called as he ran in the door.

“She’s gone,” he heard Sarah’s quiet distraught voice from the floor.

He looked down to see Sarah kneeling near Charlotte’s head while a paramedic attended to her.

“Are you alright?” he asked Charlotte

“I’ll be okay, but Chelsea, he took her.”

“Who did?”

“I don’t know. We’ve never seen him before.”

Oh God, Chelsea.

Chapter 27

Kidnapped

Thursday

The man walked her casually to the car with the gun concealed but wedged hard into her back. She thought about running, screaming, but his restraining arm and the risk to her life and the lives of her family kept her mouth firmly closed. The only illumination came from dull street lights and Chelsea thought with despair this would conceal their escape. Anyone witnessing them leaving wouldn’t see enough to be helpful.

He loaded her into the car and warned her about trying anything. Her mind screamed 'run' as he walked to the driver’s side but her traitorous fear kept her rigid and frozen in the seat.

After he climbed into the car, Chelsea turned to him in astonishment.

“What the hell is wrong with you?” she exclaimed. “You just shot my sister.”

“I warned her.”

“Who are you? Why did you kill all those girls? And Elle?” She was angry now.

“They looked like you and I was practicing to make it perfect. As for Elle, at least I got a free ride from her before I sliced her up.” He turned to her with a crazy look in his eyes. “No more talking or I’ll shoot you right here.”

“Go ahead. You’re going to kill me anyway.”

He continued to stare at her with a crazed look filled with such malice that it kept her mouth firmly closed. She decided to bide her time. She would talk to him, reason with him. She would find a way to escape.

He drove around the block and parked outside a vacant building almost directly behind her house. Had he been living behind her the whole time?

He hauled her from the car and dragged her back in the direction they’d just come from. They crossed the street and he continued to tow her towards a house two doors up but across the road from her house. She cursed the darkness that concealed them as fear seized her heart.

As they snuck up to the front door, she heard an ambulance siren heading up the street. She breathed a sigh of relief. Maybe Charlotte would be alright. She couldn’t believe he’d been living here across the road the entire time, murdering those poor innocent girls and Elle.

He dragged her toward a room in the rear of the house. The walls were lined with some type of foam material. She was trying to figure out exactly what its purpose was as they passed through the hall.

“The walls are sound proofed. It’s so no-one can hear you scream.”

Her blood went cold.

He took her into a room containing plastic on the walls and floor. The only furniture was a dirty mattress. He hauled her towards it and she was relieved to see it was free of blood. Pointing the gun at her, he told her to lie down.

“Why are you doing this to me, to them, to Elle?” she choked the last name out. She was really scared now. Cold shivers ran through her veins as her imagination ran rampant at what he wanted to inflict on her. With a resolve buried deep inside her, she urged herself to stay alive long enough for someone to find her. Lucas.

“You need to know what it feels like to have nothing. All your life you’ve had everything you’ve ever wanted. I never had anything. I wanted you to see what that was like.”

“My parents worked hard for everything they had, as did my grandparents. What’s it to you?”

“It’s everything to me.”

“Who are you? What am I to you? I’ve never seen you before in my life.”

“I’m not surprised you don’t remember me.”

“Why would I know who you are? Have we met?”

“Oh yeah, we’ve met, many times. But of course you don’t remember me at all, you spoilt bitch. I’m nothing to you.”

“But I don’t know who you are.” Tears welled in Chelsea’s eyes from the combination of the terror and the frustration.

“Well, I’m sure going to make an impression on you this time. Now shut up and lay down or I’ll kill someone else you love.”

She reluctantly lay on the filthy mattress and told herself to remain calm. She did not want him to see she was afraid.

He tied her wrists and ankles to the mattress with a nylon rope already fastened to the sides. From underneath, he pulled out a long thin knife. He slowly cut open first her t-shirt, then her skirt, but left her underwear untouched. She was thankful for small mercies. He started to undo his pants and the fear rose to rest in her throat.

“Please don’t do this.”

“I have been waiting a long time for this, a very long time, and nothing is going to stop me from enjoying doing what I did to those other girls with you. I promise it’s going to be a whole lot better with you.

“Please don’t.”

He emitted a short manic laugh. “I told you not to beg it really doesn’t become you, Chelsea.”

Chelsea studied him, trying to place his face. Something about him reminded her of …. No, she couldn’t think straight. “Why are you doing this?”

“Because you are a spoilt bitch and need to be taught a lesson.”

“I never did anything to you.”

“Oh but you did.”

“What?”

His expression changed. The wild look suddenly returned to his eyes. His stare caused her heart to beat frantically but she continued on, hoping to reason with him. “Tell me why you are doing this ….”

The blow surprised her. Her cheek burned and she could taste the blood in her mouth where she bit her tongue. Tears pooled in her eyes and stung her face as they fell. As the ringing in her ears cleared, Chelsea heard another voice calling. Although faint, it was definitely a call for help coming from somewhere else in the house. The other missing girl!

“Dammit, I guess I better go deal with her. Don’t you go anywhere.” He laughed snidely.

Screams and cries followed and Chelsea couldn’t block them out no matter how hard she tried. She tugged at her wrist restraints until they tore her skin, as she tried to pull them to cover her ears with the inside of her arms, anything to block out the pleas for mercy. The horror behind those screams was something she didn’t even want to think about as her blood crawled and her skin went cold. Abruptly the sounds ceased and Chelsea knew what this meant. It was all over.

“Did you enjoy the show?” He asked when he returned.

“I can’t believe you .... This can’t be happening.”

“I’m going out for I bit. When I come back it’s your turn.”

* * *

Lucas bolted out the door with one intention, to find information on whoever had Chelsea and fast. Sarah and Charlotte had said that it hadn’t been Wesley Robinson, but he wasn’t convinced. Perhaps it was Chad Wilson, working with Robinson in some way. It couldn’t be just anybody who had Chelsea, someone she didn’t now. That didn’t make sense. Wesley Robinson had to be behind it somehow. He needed that artist’s impression of Chad Wilson to show to Sarah and Charlotte.

He dialled Maggie’s number as he jumped into the car.

“Lucas,” she answered. “I was just about to ring you, one of the waitresses remembered Wilson and ....”

“He’s got Chelsea,” he said, cutting her off.

“Who has?”

“I don’t know. Sarah and Charlotte didn’t recognise him, but I’m my gut tells me that Wesley Robinson is behind this, and that Chad Wilson has something to do with it. We’ve got to show that sketch to Sarah and Charlotte. I should have shown it to Chelsea while I had the chance. I wasn’t focused on the job. I got distracted. I should have been there to protect her. I could’ve stopped him. I should have done more. It’s all my fault.” His words were all rolling into each other in his panic. He couldn’t think straight or get his head around it all.

“It’s not your fault, Lucas. It wouldn’t have helped to show the sketch of Chad to Chelsea because she probably doesn’t know who it is anyway. We don’t even know if it’s him that took her and even if we knew, we don’t know where he is anyway. We also don’t know if this has anything to do with Wesley Robinson. It wasn’t him that took her. If you’d been there, you’d probably be dead by now, like Lewis.“

Lucas cursed. “I’ll meet you at the station,” he told her. “We have to see if we can find out who Chad Wilson is and where he lives. Either he is Wesley Robinson or he is the kidnapper working with him. We have to find out one way or the other. Only Sarah and Charlotte can tell us that. And I’m positive Wesley Robinson is behind this. I can feel it.”

* * *

Maggie strode in and joined him at his desk. She stood behind his chair and placed a comforting hand on his shoulder.

“Dammit Maggie, I didn’t protect her,” he said, his voice thick with despair.

“We had an officer on the door, Lucas. What more could we have done?”

“I should have done something, Maggie. I dropped my game and now Lewis is dead too. I should’ve been there. I should’ve shown Chelsea the sketch, then we would know who we are dealing with, and whether there is one or two of them.” He banged his fist on the table. He took several deep breaths.

Maggie waited until he lifted his eyes to hers. “We were only speculating, we didn’t know for sure she was a target.”

“What about the calls? She was being threatened.”

“Yes but the calls couldn’t be traced. We were hitting dead ends everywhere. We couldn’t even find out where Chad Wilson lives, or anything about him whatsoever, and we have no positive ID on Robinson either.”

“What are we going to do? I can’t lose her.”

“Let me go and canvass the street, I’ll take Peterson and Stewart with me. Maybe someone saw which way they went or what he was driving. Then I’ll take to sketch over to the hospital to show Sarah. You won’t be of any use to us tonight. Go home, go see your sister, but for tonight let us try and find her.”

“I can’t sit around and do nothing,” he shouted.

“You’re no good to us like this, Lucas.” She leant against the desk and placed a hand on his face. “Let me do this for you.”

“No, I’ll stay here and look over everything again, see what we’ve missed. Maybe there is something, some piece of evidence that will point us in the right direction.”

“Fine, Lucas, I’m not going to argue with you.” She left to round up the other detectives.

* * *

Sarah rode in the ambulance with Charlotte gripping her hand. The concern for both her daughters became a vice around her heart.

“Oh God, Chelsea,” Charlotte cried. “Mum, we can’t lose her. If that man does anything to her, I’ll kill him.”

“Please don’t talk like that, Charlotte. Just you get better. Chelsea will be fine. Lucas will find her,” she assured her and prayed she was right.

* * *

Something heavy was pressed down on her chest and Chelsea opened her eyes. She yelped when she realised the killer was sitting astride her.

“Time to scream,” he said to her as he held the knife aloft.

He knelt up and began to cut an S with slow precision into her chest. The sharp, searing pain took her breath away and she bit her lip to stop from crying out. Chelsea didn’t want to give him the satisfaction. She hoped it would end swiftly. She clenched her jaw and went somewhere else. Lucas. She thought about his hazel eyes and his gorgeous little giggle ... Oh God it hurts! She screamed out in pain and he offered her a disturbing smile.

“Finally, a full-on scream. I was hoping for that. You’re quite tough for a rich bitch.” He stopped and she could feel the blood flowing in rivers down her chest towards her stomach.

“I wanted you to feel what it's like to have something done to you, something you didn’t want. I want to hear you beg me to stop but there’s plenty of time for that later.”

“Please, untie me. We can sort this out.”

“I don’t think so, sweetheart.”

His face is vaguely familiar. I have seen him before ….

He hit her again and this time everything went black.

* * *

Sarah sat anxiously waiting for Charlotte to be brought from recovery. The doctors informed her they had removed the bullet, repaired the damage and that she was going to be alright. Charlotte’s shoulder would be stiff and sore for quite a while and she may have trouble with it from time to time but overall she would come through it alright. When they wheeled Charlotte in, she was sleeping. Sarah stroked her hair waiting for her to wake. Relief over Charlotte surged through her as her desolation over Chelsea consumed her. Sarah’s hands shook and tears saturated her cheeks. Her baby, her Chelsea.

“Have they found her yet?” Charlotte asked the moment she opened her eyes.

Sarah discreetly wiped her tears.

“No, honey but I’m sure it will be soon. Please don’t worry about that now, just rest.”

Charlotte closed her eyes. She was just so tired. She was afraid of life without her sister.

As Charlotte lost consciousness, Sarah heard someone enter the room. She turned to see a tall blonde approaching her.

“Mrs Summerville, I’m Maggie, Lucas’ partner. How is she?” She said, indicating towards Charlotte.

“Please call me Sarah. She’ll be sore but she’ll be fine, thanks, Maggie. How is Lucas?” She furrowed her brow.

“About the same as you.”

Sarah smiled slightly.

“I told him to go and see his sister and let us try to find Chelsea.”

Sarah nodded once before speaking. “What can I do to help, Maggie?”

Maggie sat in the seat beside her. “I need to show you something.” She handed her the sketch of Chad Wilson. “Do you recognise this man?”

Sarah frowned. “He looks a little like the kidnapper.” She studied it a moment. “He looks a bit like Wes too, not really like either of them. Who is he?”

“He’s a man we are trying to locate called Chad Wilson. He’s a suspect.”

“Well, it could be the kidnapper. It’s hard to say. These sketches can look like lots of people really, can’t they?”

“So you think it could be either of them?”

“Yes. I really can’t say for sure. I don’t suppose that helps ….”

“Could Wesley Robinson have changed his appearance? Could it have been him that kidnapped Chelsea?”

“I don’t think so. I don’t think it was Wes, and Chelsea didn’t appear to think so either, and she would have known. Charlotte didn’t recognise him either. It all happened so fast ...” Her voice faltered and she clasped her hands together tight in her lap.

“From what you know of Wesley Robinson, was he capable of doing anything like this?”

She shrugged. “I couldn’t tell you. I suppose anybody is capable of almost anything when they put their mind to it. When he just disappeared on Chelsea we were all surprised and couldn’t understand it. Something must have happened or perhaps he held some kind of grudge. It was all very strange.” She paused. “Please find my baby.”

“We’ll do everything we can, Sarah. I promise.”

* * *

Carrie located Lucas at his desk, head in hands. She couldn’t recall seeing him this distraught, not since that fateful night. She walked over to him and put her hand on his shoulder.

“Lucas, come home with me for a while, get some rest. You can come back in the morning, when you’re fresh.”

“How can I sleep, Carrie?” He lifted his head and his expression broke her heart.

“Lucas, please just come home with me.”

“I can’t lose her, she is the best thing that has ever happened to me,” he said with such anguish that he worried Carrie further.

She grabbed his hand, guided him out to her car and took him to her house. The children were asleep and Nathan was waiting when they arrived.

“Can I get you anything?” Nathan asked.

Lucas shook his head. Nathan said he would go and check on the children and catch up on some work in the study. Carrie sat him down beside her on the couch. He rested his elbows on his knees, his hands dropped despondently between his legs and his eyes on the floor.

“Lucas,” she paused and waited for him to look at her. “She’s still alive and can be found.”

“Carrie, what he did to those girls …”

“Don’t think about it.”

“I can’t help it. For the first time since becoming a cop, I don’t know what to do next.”

“Do you know who it is?”

Lucas shook his head and returned to his eyes to their scrutiny of the floor. “Not for certain. He could be Chad Wilson, he could be Wesley Robinson. He could be anybody. Maggie showed the sketch to Sarah and she couldn’t be sure. I still think Robinson is behind this. Chad could be Wesley’s accomplice. There could be two of them doing unspeakable things to Chelsea, unimaginable things … we have no idea who has her or where she is ...”

“Oh, honey.” She pulled him into a hug.

They both sat for hours, holding onto each other.

Chapter 28

Anna

Friday

Maggie decided to get an early start and found Lucas already at his desk.

“You haven’t been here all night have you?”

“No, I was at my sister's for a while. I’ve been here about an hour.”

“Well, I’m glad Carrie came and got you.”

“Ah, so you rang her then?”

“Yes, Lucas, I’m worried about you.”

“It’s okay, I’m better this morning and determined to find this son of a bitch and my girl. How did you go last night, Maggie? Any witnesses?”

“No, as usual, no-one saw much. One witness said she’d seen them leave the house but assumed they were going on a date because his arm was around her, which probably just indicates he had the gun on her. She said the car was a dark colour sedan but she didn’t know the make.”

“We can’t trace a car to either Wesley Robinson or Chad Wilson, so the vehicle is probably stolen or in another name entirely. We could look up all dark stolen cars, which would be like trying to find a needle in a haystack. We don’t even know how long he’s had the car, if it’s even stolen.”

He shook his head, frustrated again. Why wasn’t anything falling into place when they had so little time?

“There would also be a lot of dark coloured sedans to go through. It could be black, blue or green, who knows - it was dark.”

“The results came back on the hair from Lindsay’s autopsy, and the DNA matches the one found on Kate. It doesn’t really help us much we have nothing to compare it to.”

Maggie’s phone rang and as Lucas listened to the one-sided conversation the realisation hit him hard. A body had been found. Chelsea!

“Maggie?” he asked when she’d hung up.

“It could be Anna.”

“What if it’s not?”

“His MO suggests it is. It’s too soon for Chelsea.”

Lucas drove to occupy his mind. Every moment of the past week passed through his mind and his heart set up a permanent residence in his throat. He told himself it wouldn’t be Chelsea. Maggie was right, it was too soon. He couldn’t even comprehend or consider the idea of a life without Chelsea, a world where she wasn’t in it. He’d given his heart and soul to her. If she was dead, his life would be over too.

Lucas pulled up at the warehouse but couldn’t bring himself to get out of the car.

“I’ll go and check,” Maggie said.

His hands gripped the steering wheel until his knuckles were white and the pain helped divert the torment in his heart. He closed his eyes, lent his head against the seat and waited for the long excruciating minutes until Maggie returned. He didn’t want to allow the images of her into his mind but they came regardless. A flash of her laughter and the thought of her kiss caused his chest to tighten and panic to surge through his body. What type of cruel world would take away someone else he loved, especially someone as lovely as Chelsea? He clenched his jaw against the pain threatening to consume him.

The last image of Chelsea saturated his mind - her engaging smile as he dropped her at her door the previous morning. As he’d driven away she’d blown him a kiss. Would that be his last moment with her?

He nearly leapt out of his skin when Maggie tapped on his window. He lowered the window and stared at her. She shook her head.

“It’s Anna Jones.”

Relief filled his chest, which instantly turned to guilt when he realised he was happy that it was Anna. This only intensified his fury towards the kidnapper, whoever it was.

“It’s perfectly normal to be relieved, Lucas.”

“Doesn’t make it right, though.”

“I asked Dave to do a preliminary ASAP so, if he finds anything, we can move on it straightaway.

When they got back to the station, Wesley Robinson’s file was waiting on Lucas’ desk.

“Anything in the file we can use?”

“Probably not, but his record is for manslaughter.”

“Who’d he kill?’

“His father when he was sixteen. After years of physical and emotional abuse, he slit his father’s throat one night after another particularly nasty bashing. The court went easy on him because of the abuse and he was released when he was eighteen after serving nearly two years. He grew up with nothing. His mother left and his father was an alcoholic who drank his wages.”

“It looks like it could be Wesley Robinson after all. Same MO. He grew up poor and probably resents Chelsea because she didn’t. They were getting married weren’t they?” Maggie said.

“Yes,” he said with a clenched jaw.

“So he could have just married into the wealth. Why leave her and then plan to kill her?”

“I guess that is only something he can answer. I haven’t been able to work that out either. Years of abuse obviously affected him. He also worked in the kitchen as a baker’s assistant while inside.”

“There’s our flour. He must have been working somewhere, but where?”

“If we could find that out, maybe we could get his address. I already checked and haven’t found any employment records,” Lucas said.

“Perhaps we could show his photo around at the café, see if he ate there. Maybe someone knows something about him. If he didn’t go there, maybe there is another way he knows all the girls. This could be a way to lead us to him. We can read over the files with Robinson in mind now, particularly the calls. Maybe we’ll be able to link something up.”

“It’s worth a try, I suppose. What else do we have?”

Maggie’s phone rang as they were leaving. “The ME has finished his preliminary report on Anna and wants to see us,” she told him after hanging up.

They made their way down to the lower level to David’s office and lab.

“Good afternoon, Detectives.”

“What have we got, Dave?” Maggie asked him.

“Well, cause of death is consistent with the other four girls. The wounds again have different levels of clotting.”

“Did you find any trace substances?”

“Not this time. No trace of flour at all that I can find. This girl has either been cleaned or he didn’t transfer any this time. No seminal fluid or hairs from the rape kit but signs of trauma, so once again he may have used a condom or didn’t ejaculate. I would be more inclined to go with the latter as there were no traces of a condom having been used, same as before.”

“Any other differences, besides the flour?” Lucas asked him.

“Yes. With regard to the wounds, this time the cuts were inflicted over a shorter period of time, as though he rushed, or there was less time between each cut.”

“So, he’s either escalating or he was in a hurry to move on,” said Lucas with a grim expression. “This means we could have less time.”

“He could have been in a rush to reach his real target in Chelsea. He might take his time again with her.”

Lucas glared at her.

“This is a good thing, Lucas. It means we have more time to find her. The quicker we do, the lesser the injuries.”

“I hope you're right. Anything else?” Lucas asked the ME.

“Not at this stage. I have only done the preliminary. I’ll let you know if I find anything else inconsistent.”

“Thanks, Dave.”

“Was he working somewhere? Where was the flour coming from? Why isn’t there any this time?” Maggie now sounded as aggravated as Lucas felt.

They were waiting impatiently for the lift to take them back to their floor.

“He must have been working somewhere using an alias.” He paused. Lucas turned to Maggie as a thought entered his mind. “Wesley Robinson and Chad Wilson are the same person.”

Chapter 29

Chad Wilson

Friday

“Of course, this is why there was no flour on Anna’s body, because he kidnapped her after he stopped going to work. Wait, the sketch doesn’t look like the photo and they didn’t recognise him,” said Maggie. “

“It’s an old photo. I wouldn’t have guessed they were the same person.” He held up the photo and the sketch. “See the nose is wrong. Different face shapes. Maybe he’s had his face altered.”

“Didn’t Jenkins say that the manager and girl couldn’t agree when they described him?”

“Yeah, that could explain the differences. Maybe if I’d shown Chelsea...”

“Don’t beat yourself up.”

“We should go back to the bakery to find out about a vehicle and show them a photo,” Maggie suggested. “We should check at the café too.”

“If only I’d thought of this yesterday. We could have been onto this sooner. It should have clicked when we were going over the notes, but with everything going on .... I have to be more focused than this.”

“I missed it too, partner. Even if we could have been sure they were the same person, we have no clue where he lives. They still may not be the same guy.”

“After we’ve been to the bakery and café, if our suspicions are correct, I’ll call Peterson and Stewart to let them know that Wesley is Chad, just in case they come across him while doing their door-to-door, and they can ask the neighbours about both names.”

“Good idea. We haven’t briefed them on our updates yet.

The same assistant was at Ben’s Bakery when they arrived.

“Hello Detectives,” she said after they walked in. “How can I help you?”

“We just need to ask you a couple of questions about Chad Wilson,” Maggie began.

“Sure go ahead.”

“Do you recognise this man?” she asked showing her a photo of Wesley.

“It looks a little like Chad, I think.” She looked closely at the photo for a moment. “He looks younger there but it could be him.”

“Did you ever hear him referred to as, or use the name, Wesley Robinson?” Maggie said.

“Not that I remember.”

“I assume no employment records have turned up?” Lucas asked.

“No.”

“Do you know what type of car he drove?”

“Yeah, a dark blue sedan, um, a Ford, I think.”

“Are there any other details about the car that you can recall?” Maggie said.

“No, I don’t remember the registration number or anything. I just remember the car because I’d seen him arrive in it and thought it was a nice car.”

“Don’t you remember anything else about him?” Lucas demanded impatiently.

“No, I don’t.” She glared at him.

“That’s okay. If you think of anything else give us a call. Thank you for your time,” Maggie said.

“Sure thing.”

“Take it easy, Lucas,” Maggie said once they were outside. “We need all the information we can get and being rude is not going to get us anywhere. I know you’re worried about Chelsea but you have to stay cool.”

He nodded. “I know, I’ll try and keep my emotions in check.”

“Good”

They went into the café and were fortunate enough to find the waitress who informed Maggie about Chad. She had the same ‘could be him’ recognition as the bakery assistant towards Wesley’s photo but didn’t know what type of car he drove. She thought he’d always walked to the cafe and couldn’t recall ever seeing him in a car.

As they were driving back to the precinct, a call came over the radio from a uniform who’d found a car parked outside an abandoned building. The officer called in the registration number, its description and its location.

“That street runs behind Chelsea’s house and it’s the kind of car we’re looking for,” Lucas said.

They waited for the dispatcher to come back with the findings and she told the officer the vehicle was reported stolen three weeks prior. The officer said he would have the car brought to the impound lot.

Maggie jumped on the radio and advised the officer the car could be part of a murder investigation and it needed to be checked for evidence. The officer said he would make sure it was organised for them.

“Could he have been this close to her all along?” Maggie asked him.

It’s like he knows when I’m home.

Lucas cursed.

“What?”

“Chelsea told me when the calls came in she’d been just leaving or just getting home. He also called once when she would normally be at the shop. She said it was like he knew when she was home. I assumed he was stalking her and was making the calls from the pre-paid phone while watching the house. It never occurred to me that he could see her from where he lived.”

“Didn’t Peterson and Stewart canvass all the houses on her street?’

“Yes, but there were a couple of houses where no-one answered. I’ll ring Peterson now. They are closer than us. They can check the building then canvas the street where the car has just been found. Chelsea’s house has windows front and back, so it’s possible he was living behind her.”

“And we can check the other houses on her street.”

The first house they stopped at was down the road from Chelsea’s and seemed unlikely as a possibility due to its location. Her house was only partially visible but anything was worth a try. The lady living in the house hadn’t seen anything and didn’t know Chelsea or Elle. She also didn’t recognise Wesley Robinson’s photo.

They knocked on the door of the second house directly across the road from Chelsea’s and next door to the last house they needed to visit.

A short, blond lady answered the door.

“Can I help you?” she asked.

“We hope you can, Ma’am. I’m Detective Johnson and this is Detective Hudson. We were wondering if we could ask you a few questions about your neighbours across the street.”

“Oh yes, Chelsea and Elle. Very tragic what happened to her.”

“You knew Elle?”

“Only to say hello or wave. Chelsea too.”

“Chelsea was kidnapped last night by the man we think killed Elle.”

“Oh dear that’s terrible! She seems like such a lovely girl.”

“She is,” said Lucas. “Were you home last night, Ma’am?”

“No, I’m a doctor at the local hospital and I work long hours. I was on call last night and was at the hospital from around five until about one this morning. My name is Helen, by the way.”

“We’re sorry to disturb you so early, Helen, but we’re trying to find Chelsea,” Maggie said.

“That’s ok. Please ask me what you need to.”

“As you weren’t home you probably can’t help us with what occurred last night, but the weekend that Elle went missing did you see anything?" Maggie asked. "That was the weekend before last.”

“No, I’m sorry, I’m not going to be much help there either. I actually had the weekend off so I went to visit my sister and was gone from Friday night till Sunday night.”

“Do you know anything about the person who lives next door?” Lucas asked her pointing to the neighbour on her left.

“No not really. He lives there alone as far as I know. He must be a shift worker like me as I have seen him leave the house at odd times during the night. I remember because I found it strange that he sometimes went out on foot in the middle of the night and didn’t use a car.”

“What does he look like?” Lucas asked her with urgency.

“Um, he has dark hair and is medium height. The few times I’ve seen him he was wearing a baseball cap so I couldn’t really see his face. He seems to keep to himself and he’s quiet.”

“Have you ever seen him bring any women to the house?” Lucas asked.

“Once, she was a pretty little thing with dark hair.”

“Do these photos look like any of the girls he brought here?” Maggie asked showing her photos of the four brunette victims.

“Um, it could have been but they all look quite alike don’t they. I didn’t get that good a look, I’m afraid, but it’s possible.”

“When was this?”

“Um, last week sometime. May have been Wednesday of last week but I can’t be certain.”

“Do you recognise this man?” Maggie asked, showing Wesley’s photo.

“He looks familiar.”

“Could he be the man living next door?”

“Well the hair colour is wrong and I haven’t ever really seen his face properly.”

“Is there anything else you can tell us about him?”

“I can’t think of anything.”

“Do you know if he is home at the moment?”

“I don’t know.”

“Thank you for your help, Helen,” Maggie said and handed her a business card. “If you think of anything, no matter how small, please give me a call.”

“I will. Have a nice day, Detectives.”

“Is it possible he lives right there?” Lucas said.

“It’s possible but the description doesn’t match.”

“Even if he’s not our man, he may have seen something.”

They knocked on the door and got no response. Lucas walked around to the back of the house, checking all the windows as he went, but the blinds were all down. At the back of the house was an alley which could easily be used as a service road to the garage, also in the rear. If someone wanted to get in and out undetected, they could.

He came back around the front and there was still no response at the front door. Maggie saw the look on Lucas’ face and knew what he was thinking.

“You can’t go in there, Lucas. We don’t have probable cause and if it’s not the right house, you’ll have a serious problem.”

“But what if it is, Maggie? She needs me and she could be right here.”

He took a step forward and Maggie grabbed his arm

“We’ll continue looking, try to find a reason to go in there or we just have to wait for him to be at home.”

“How can I wait?” He shrugged off her arm.

“Lucas, if you go in there and you’re wrong, you could be taken off the case. You won’t be able to help her at all if that happens. Think about it.”

He frowned. His eyes went between Maggie and the door until they finally came to rest on her. “Fine, you’re right. I’m just going out of my mind.”

As they got back into the car Maggie called Peterson to discover the abandoned building, where the car was found, had been searched and was empty. They were also part way through canvassing the street so, Lucas and Maggie went to give them a hand.

After making no headway with their interviews, they tried the house on Chelsea’s street again and there was still no response. Peterson and Stewart left for the evening and would continue with their interviews in the morning. Two detectives were assigned to stay on the house and watch for any movement. They would also keep knocking until they got an answer, in case he arrived home through the back. Lucas and Maggie went back to the station, they needed to start again.

Chapter 30

Despair

Friday

Chelsea blinked several times after opening heavy eyes. Disorientated, she took in her surroundings. The room was dim and unfamiliar. The goose bumps on her skin suddenly made her aware of the cold.

What happened? Where am I?

She felt something dry and sticky near her lips while her chest throbbed and stung. When she attempted to lift her hand to her face she realised her wrists and ankles were bound.

As she remembered, despair engulfed her. The crazed killer, the one who thought she should know him, had cut her and this was the source of the severe ache. Her mouth and left eye felt swollen where he’d hit her. She glanced down to see her clothes were in tatters and did little to hide her nakedness. Her mind, although cloudy, began to regain its memory, bit by bit. Who was this man? She searched her memory trying to find the answers. Why did he seem vaguely familiar and a complete stranger at the same time?

Then she remembered Charlotte and prayed she was alright.

She’d begun to devise a plan of escape when the man walked into the room.

“Well, you’re finally awake.”

“Can’t we work this out?” Chelsea pleaded urgently. “We could leave together – run away. You don’t have to do this. I can access my trust fund and we can use it to escape.” Chelsea didn’t know what he wanted but she hoped this was it. She had to try everything.

“What, you think we can be together, that this is what I want from you? Didn’t you listen to me? Why would I want to be with you now? It’s far too late for that. Even if that was what I wanted, I’ve killed five people, six including the cop. You are my final mission. I don’t want to spend time with you. I want you to scream in pain. I want to see you suffer and I want to watch you die as I slit your throat.” He snickered. “You’re a spoilt bitch, and soon everybody will know.”

Terror seized her chest and stole her breath. His words echoed in her mind as fear overcame her. Then suddenly she remembered, an image flashed through her mind. She knew who he was. Andrew Smyth. From school! The dirty, scruffy guy who hung out with Wes, before Chelsea and Wes were together. People used to say how similar they looked. “You’re Andrew Smyth.”

His expression changed to betray the truth before he could hide it from her. “Who is Andrew Smyth?”

“You. I recognise you. We were at school together.”

“Very clever, Princess. We did go to school together. So you do remember me. Who would have thought? You always looked down your nose at everyone - such a snob. So beautiful though. Too good for me.”

Chelsea looked at him earnestly. “What did I ever do to you?”

“You really don’t know?”

Chelsea frowned. “No, I honestly don’t.”

“You treated me like I was a nobody, like I was worse than a nobody.”

“I didn’t know you.”

He smirked. “Well you’re about to get to know me much better …” He started to unhook his pants.

Quick, Chelsea. Think of something. “Weren’t you friendly with Wesley Robinson at school?”

He stopped. “Wes? Yeah, you could say we used to be friends. Actually, we were team. He was my cousin”

Was?

He spat out an ironic laugh when she frowned. “You didn’t know Wes was my cousin, did you? Of course you didn’t. He wouldn’t have admitted knowing such low life as me. He became far too good for me. When he met you, he immediately broke off all contact with me because I was never good enough to be around someone like you. Mind you, neither was he, but you probably didn’t know that. If only you knew the truth. We were tight, Wes and me, once. We were family and we were both treated like shit by our families. Our mothers were sisters and they both left us to the mercy our drunken, abusive dads. We suffered in the same way. We were like twins. People said they couldn’t tell us apart. The only real difference between us was that I didn’t get lucky with you and he killed his dad.”

Chelsea gasped. “Wes? I don’t believe you,” she protested.

“Yeah he slit his throat. He called me after and I saw for myself. I visited him every week while he was in juvie. Then after he got out and met you, I never heard from him again. That is how he repaid me for my loyalty to him, for our years and years of friendship. For our love for each other. That is what you spoilt bitches do. You tear people apart for your own amusement, and you don’t give a shit. You even enjoy it. It’s all about you, isn’t it? There is nothing in the world of a spoilt bitch other than her. You get everything you want at the expense of others.”

Chelsea couldn’t believe it. All her composure fell away. She couldn’t believe this man’s hatred, his twisted mind. She screamed and fought against her bindings.

Andrew grinned wickedly. “So there was Wes, my best friend, my cousin, my world, and along you came. With your beauty, your fancy rich world and that was it. No more Wes. Wouldn’t talk to me. Wouldn’t have anything to do with me. I soon got the message. But then I decided it was time to send some messages of my own so I let him know our friendship was really over.” Andrew’s mouth lifted in a sardonic smile. “I slit his throat. That was fitting, wasn’t it?”

Chelsea’s heart nearly stopped and her eyes stung with tears. Wes was dead? He hadn’t left her? This maniac had taken away her love, for what? Because he was jealous? Because he resented Wes’ happiness and that he might for once be able to enjoy the good things in life, the things her family had worked hard for and were willing to share with the people they loved, no matter who they were? He had destroyed her life once and now planned to do so again.

She shook her head desperately trying to shake the memories of Wes out of it. She couldn’t mourn him now. She had to think clearly.

“How could you do it?” she whispered.

Andrew laughed. “He begged me not to do it, said he loved you. Well, that wasn’t a reason to spare him, was it? But it was a reason to kill him, and to kill the one who started it all, the person who took him away from me, who deserved to suffer for what you had done. You’re just like my mum. You take exactly what you want, then you toss everything else aside like worthless trash. You’d have tossed Wes aside one day too, but it would have been too late for me. Nobody betrays me like that and nobody treats me the way you did. He needed to die and you needed to suffer.”

Chelsea shook her head in disbelief.

“So I invited him over for old times’ sake. All he could talk about was you and how cool it was that he had his life together and that he would be marrying into money. He was so surprised when I cut him.”

Chelsea screamed and shook her head even more violently to rid herself of every memory, of every thought, of every part of this horror. She needed a clear head to get away from this animal. She wished again that she wasn’t bound so she could block her ears. She didn’t want to hear any more but he kept going anyway.

“They never found his body. They’ll find yours, though, but they won’t find me. Oh, I will enjoy watching every last drop of your blood spilling, you spoilt bitch.”

Oh god, Wes ... Lucas, I need you …. Thinking about what happened to Wes, and remembering Lucas, was almost too much to endure.

“When the fun of watching you cry over Wes wore off, it was time for you to die, so I started practicing, to get it just right. Seeing the terror in their eyes, watching their blood spill and hearing their last breath was like sweet medicine to my soul. I enjoyed cutting those other girls as I thought about you. Now you are my last, Chelsea. My ultimate prize. It has been worth the wait. Soon, you too, will taste the feeling of nothingness.”

He continued to undo his pants and Chelsea braced herself for what was to follow, when she heard a knock on the front door.

Andrew looked up alert and tense. “Don’t make a sound or whoever it is gets it,” he said to her with threatening look and removed the gun from the waistband of his pants. He disappeared out the room.

Didn’t he say if I yelled no-one would hear me? Should I try?

Confusion reigned. If she called out would she be putting someone in jeopardy? Was she willing to take the chance, to save her own life at the risk to another?

* * *

Andrew peered through the peephole and saw two detectives standing at the door, one of them the bitch’s lover. So you think you have found me? Well think again. Chad Wilson lives here, not Andrew or Wesley, for that matter. I bet you are looking for Wesley. I shall be very disappointed if you aren’t. I knew eventually you would find out about his record and assume it was him. Exactly what I wanted, I will get away with murder and you will continue to look for a dead man. He caught a glimpse of Hudson as he ventured down the side of the house and around the back. Look all you like, you won’t see anything. After a several minutes he watched them leave. Now I can finish what I started.

* * *

“Your boyfriend was here but he’s gone now. No-one is going to save you,” Andrew said when he returned. “Time to hear you scream again.”

Two emotions raged through Chelsea: relief because he wasn’t going to rape her and fear regarding the pain she was about to endure again. She didn’t know which one was winning.

When he took out his knife, fear won.

Lucas …..I love you ... If only I could see you one last time ... Wes ….

She tried to block out the pain. It was excruciating and she didn’t know how much longer she could take it. She screamed again, from the pain, from the anger, for Wesley and, most of all, at the thought of never seeing her loved ones again. She could feel the blood streaming from the incision in her chest and, for a slight moment, hoped she would bleed out and the nightmare would be over. He stopped the bleeding and cleaned the wound as her emotions switched between relief and despair. He then left her alone without saying another word.

Lucas ... come back.

If he came once, he might come back. Lucas was thorough and would not give up. Something led him here, maybe it would again. She needed to hope, it was all she had left. Andrew wasn’t going to see reason. If someone didn’t find her soon she was going to die here.

Hours passed and the pain from her wounds dissipated whilst her desolation overwhelmed her. There was no escape.

Later that day – at least she presumed it was the same day - she heard another knock on the door. She yelled out until she was hoarse but the knocking soon stopped and whoever it was went away again. She possessed no clue as to the time or how much of it had gone passed. Her mouth was so parched and her throat hurt when she swallowed. All she could do was think and hope. She thought about his beautiful amber eyes, his sexy smile, his passion and tenderness while tears rolled down her face. She screamed in frustration. Regardless of the uselessness of it, she screamed for help again. Endless minutes passed. Her yelling became a squeak as her voice finally gave out. Her wrists began to bleed again from pulling relentlessly at her bindings.

Chelsea lost all hope of ever being found alive. Hot tears slid down her cheeks and her croaky sobs filled the empty room. Goodbye, my love.

* * *

“It’s getting late and there isn’t much else we can do tonight. I’m going home so I can get an early start in the morning. Perhaps you should do the same,” Maggie said after hours of fruitless scouring of files and interviews.

“I’m just going to go through everything one more time. I think we’re missing something. I can’t just sit around at home. I have to find her.”

“Suit yourself,” she replied. “I’ll see you in the morning.”

Oh God, Chelsea, where are you? What is he doing to you? I can’t lose you too.

Lucas read through every report and interview on file. He called the techs working on the stolen car and advised them to run any fingerprints found against Wesley Robinson’s - now accessible since his file had been re-opened. He cursed when he saw, due to the age of the case, that there was no DNA from Robinson’s juvenile record. They would have nothing to check the hairs that had been found against unless they found Wesley. Even if they had a comparison it wouldn’t tell them where he was but at least they would know if they were looking in the right place. Now he had nothing to check to be sure.

While reading through the files for what felt like the hundredth time, one of the techs arrived with the results from the car. Plenty of fingerprints but none of them were Wesley’s. Was it even the kidnapper’s car or had he been wearing gloves?

As the night progressed and each minute passed, his despondency grew. What was he missing? His gut told him the house across from Chelsea could be where he was holding her but he couldn’t bust in there on instinct alone. He needed a reason and at the moment he didn’t have one. All he had were dead ends and his despair. According to the neighbour, he wasn’t blond. Could he be wearing a disguise? He was, after all, using a different name? Anything was possible, but it wasn’t enough to obtain a warrant or to enter the house. His hands were tied. A dark haired man who kept to himself who lived across the road from Chelsea hadn’t answered the door. No probable cause there. He checked his phone for the hundredth time, urging the detectives watching the house to call. Lucas contemplated waiting there himself but knew he wouldn’t be able to stop himself from kicking down the door. He could barely contain the urge now.

Returning his attention to the files in front of him, he searched them again, looking for something, anything that could give them a clue, a reason to charge in there.

I know she’s there. I can feel it. Forget the job. I have to know.

If he didn’t check, he was going to lose his mind. He swiftly stood up, ready to charge into the suspect house, consequences be damned.

Captain Shaw intercepted Lucas as he strode towards the exit.

“Where you off to, Hudson?” he boomed. “Have you found a lead?”

“Yeah, I think so.”

“You’re going alone?’

“Yes, Captain.”

“You’re not going to do anything to jeopardise your career are you, Detective?”

“Um, I would prefer not to answer that.”

“I am aware of what is happening with this case, Hudson. I realise you have a hunch about where the perp may be but I’m advising you strongly to follow procedure.”

“He’s going to kill her!”

“Give it one more night, Lucas. We have men on the house and they will keep trying. If they don’t get lucky, well it’s up to you then.”

“I can’t give it one more night. Do you know what he did to those other girls?”

“Of course I do. If I have to, I’ll take you off the case then if you go there tonight you will be doing more than breaking procedure. I’m doing this for you, Lucas. You’re one of my best men and I would hate to see you go because you lost your head. If this were a different girl you would wait.”

“It’s not a different girl.”

“I know, but please just wait.”

“Ah fuck it all!” He stormed out of the precinct.

* * *

Charlotte opened her eyes to see her whole family by her bedside. Harold, Bradley and Hayden had driven down first thing that morning and had been sitting vigil by her bedside since they’d arrived.

Her Pa was snoozing in a chair in the corner and her parents were sitting either side of her. Hayden was sitting in the opposite corner looking downcast and miserable.

“Where’s Chelsea?” she asked.

“I’m sorry, honey, there’s been no news yet,” said Sarah, her voice filled with distress.

“Mum, Dad, what will we do without Chelsea?”

“Lucas will find her. You have to believe that, Charlotte” Sarah said.

* * *

Carrie was just about to go to bed when there was a soft knock at the door. She opened it to find her brother looking worse than she’d ever seen him and still wearing the same clothes from when she’d brought him home the night before. He appeared haggard, unshaven and dishevelled. His expression was the worst of all and it broke her heart. His torment was apparent in every feature.

“Oh, Lucas, honey.”

He walked in, sat on the couch and put his head in his hands before groaning in anguish.

“I might know where she is,” he said through his hands, “but due to fucking procedure I can’t go in because if I do and we catch him, he could get away with it. I almost went there tonight anyway at the risk of ruining this case and my career. I still want to ... I don’t care about my job, my life ... if she ...”

“Is she worth losing everything for?”

“Yes and the thought of life without her … I just can’t ....”

There was nothing she could say to him to make it better, so she did exactly what she had done the night before. She held him.

Chapter 31

Fate

Saturday

Dawn’s first light spilling through the window woke Lucas. He opened his eyes tentatively and found he was curled up on Carrie’s constricting couch. He sat up slowly, feeling stiff and tired from another sporadic night’s sleep.

Although still desperate to locate Chelsea, he felt slightly better after obtaining some rest. He decided to go home to shower and change with the aim of freshening his mind as well as his appearance, before heading into the station. He called Detective Smith on route.

“Hey, Hudson, we haven’t seen any signs of life. We tried several times last night, but got no answer again at the door. I’m just about to try again now.”

“Call me as soon as you know.”

“Will do either way.”

Lucas tapped his fingers anxiously on the desk, waiting for his phone to ring, whilst looking over the files he was now beginning to memorise. He jumped when it rang.

“Hudson.”

“Yeah, it’s Smith.”

“How did you go?” he asked, holding his breath.

“It’s not Robinson.”

“Did he answer the door?”

“Yeah.”

“Did he see anything?”

“No, he said he was working.”

“Did you find out his name?”

“Yeah, Chad Wilson.”

“What?” Did he hear right?

“Chad Wilson, but he’s not our perp.”

“That’s either his alias or his accomplice. Didn’t you read the file?”

Silence followed.

“Smith?”

“We read some of it. I thought knowing the suspect and victims' names and when the kidnapping occurred would be enough. I asked him what he saw, if he knew the girls and his name. I thought you would want to know when he was home. You know more about the case and I thought you would want to talk to him yourself.”

Damn rookie detective. He knew he should have gone himself.

“Are you still at the house?” Lucas asked.

“No we left when it wasn’t him and we’re getting some breakfast. Sorry man, we can go back ...”

“I got it.”

He flew out of his chair and, as he ran from the station, he called Maggie’s phone.

“He answered the door,” he said when she’d answered.

“Who did?”

“Chad Wilson.”

“What?”

“It’s the right house, Mags. I’m on my way there now.”

“I’ll call for backup and meet you there. I’ll be there in about twenty five minutes. I’ve just left home.”

He hung up, jumped into his car and fired up the siren.

The drive went in slow motion. When he finally arrived, he decided he wasn’t going to waste time waiting for back up.

* * *

The pounding on the door woke Chelsea. She heard someone call "Police, open up," but it didn’t sound like Lucas. The persistent knocking and calls to open the door had occurred several times the previous evening. At least she thought it had been the previous evening. Was it morning now? Chelsea wasn’t sure but she guessed it had been several hours since the last knock. The room seemed lighter despite the blackened windows so she thought the sun must be up. Each time the knocks came, she called out but knew no-one could hear her. They weren’t giving up and Chelsea allowed hope to enter her heart again.

She heard Andrew yell out "Just a minute" from the hall near the front door. Could someone hear her if she yelled out?

“Help! I’m in here.”

Andrew appeared in the doorway. He was wearing a dark wig and baseball cap.

“If you make one more sound, whoever it is will die. Do you understand?”

“Yes,” she whispered, her voice almost gone now. Even if she yelled with all she possessed, no-one would hear her.

He disappeared down the hall. Was he actually going to open the door to the police? She couldn’t believe it? Maybe there was a chance after all.

* * *

Andrew opened the door to the young detective. As he wasn’t Hudson or his good looking blonde partner, he figured if he kept his face concealed, it was safe to answer. Perhaps they would cease their persistent knocking if he did.

“Good morning, I’m sorry to bother you so early, Sir.”

“That’s ok. What can I do for you?”

“My name’s Detective Smith and we are looking into a kidnapping which occurred across the street. Could I could ask you a few questions.”

I don’t think he recognises me.

“Sure, I’ll do my best, Detective.”

“Were you home on Thursday night?”

“Um, no, I was at work. I work night shift sometimes.”

“So you didn’t see what happened across the street?”

“No Sir, I was out from about seven until well after five a.m. I wasn’t aware something had happened.”

“Do you know the girls who live across the street?”

“No, I haven’t been living here very long and don’t know any of my neighbours. I keep to myself and I work a lot, so I don’t really see much that goes on in the street. I like to mind my own business.”

“Ok, Sir. I won’t take up anymore of your time.” He turned to leave. “Oh, I didn’t catch your name.”

“Chad Wilson.”

“Thank you, Mr Wilson. Have a nice day.” He left and Andrew smiled smugly to himself. He was definitely going to be able to finish what he started with Chelsea now. They wouldn’t be back.

* * *

No! Please come back.

The detective hadn’t recognised his name. Didn’t Lucas ask her if she knew a Chad Wilson? Chelsea was sure she’d heard the name before. He’d shown no recognition, so maybe this wasn’t the name Lucas asked her about. She couldn’t get anything straight in her head. Had her last chance for survival just passed her by?

With a heavy heart she closed her eyes and waited for Andrew to come back.

Time passed slowly and she even wished he would come back and finish what he started so it could all be over.

“Well that should be the last time we see them. I think it might be time for me to try again,” he said when he finally appeared.

Chelsea allowed her mind to drift and fade slowly towards the darkness. Fear and sadness consumed her. The pain seemed endless now. She accepted her fate and her heart broke for Lucas. Through the thickening haze she heard pounding.

“This is the police, open up.”

Lucas? Now I’m hearing things. Maybe I’m dead or dreaming. I can hear his voice even in ... She drifted towards the darkness once more.

A resounding crash sounded. Andrew jumped up and she was shoved back to light.

“Chelsea?” Lucas?

“Here ...I ...” She was cut off by a blow to the face. Her eyes filled and what she assumed to be blood ran from her nose.

Something cold pressed against her throat, she lifted her eyes, blinked away the tears and found Andrew kneeling behind her, his eyes manic.

Lucas charged through the door with his gun drawn. “We have police on every exit so there’s nowhere for you to go.”

* * *

Lucas stared at the man holding Chelsea. Where was Wesley Robinson? Was he involved at all? Had his hunch been wrong all along? This man looked like the Chad Wilson from the sketch. He also looked a little like Robinson?

He stared at the knife pressed hard to Chelsea’s throat, and the trickle of crimson at her neck caused fear to squeeze his heart.

“Drop your weapon. Tell your people on the back door to move away,” Andrew growled. “I have a car in the garage and we’re getting out of here.”

“You can leave but Chelsea stays here.”

“No, she’s coming with me.”

“I don’t think I can let you do that.”

“If you don’t, I’ll kill her right here, right now.”

“You’ll be dead if you do.”

“I don’t care if I live or die, Detective. Do you care if she does?” he asked, pressing the knife harder against her throat producing a solid flow now. The blade pressed close to the vein which would end her life. If he moved it any further, she would bleed to death.

His mind flashed back to the shop all those years ago. There was blood everywhere. He recalled the anguish upon seeing his parent’s lifeless bodies. His clothes were soaked in their blood. He remembered now how it felt on his skin. It had been weeks before the metallic smell of blood left his hands and hair. When the police took him home to tell Carrie, her cries of denial tore through his heart. He could not let that happen to Chelsea. He could not live in a world without her in it.

“Ok, I’m putting the gun down,” he said, placing it on the floor. “I’ll get on the radio.”

Not that it matters. I’m the only one here.

“All units, this is Detective Hudson. Could the officers at the rear stand down. Wilson has a hostage.”

“It’s done,” he said.

Lucas hoped Maggie would arrive soon to back him up.

“I’m going to cut the ropes so she can come with me. If you go for your gun, she’s dead,” he told Lucas.

As Andrew cut the ropes holding her wrists and ankles, Lucas considered reaching for his weapon. Would he have time to pick it up and fire before Wilson finished his trail across her neck? Feeling helpless, Lucas watched as he returned the knife to Chelsea’s throat and hauled her to her feet.

* * *

Once her wrists were free, Chelsea tried to cover herself with what remained of her clothes. As he pulled her up, her legs shook and felt unsteady. She was afraid they would give out and push her throat harder against the knife. She managed somehow to keep her feet as he dragged her towards the door. She attempted unsuccessfully to break free of his strong grasp.

“If you follow me or anyone tries to grab me, she’s dead.”

“Lucas,” she gasped as Andrew pulled her through the door and into the hall.

Lucas dived on his gun and was hot on their tail. When he heard a familiar voice, relief washed over him.

“Stop right there and drop your weapon,” Maggie commanded, her gun trained to the back of Andrew’s head.

“I’ll kill her right now,” he screamed at them. “Drop your guns!”

Lucas watched in horror as he began to cut across Chelsea’s throat. A stream of blood flowed quickly now from the deep short wound. Her cries felt like daggers in his heart. Maggie took a few steps back and dropped her weapon.

He was about to continue his assault with the knife, when a shot rang out.

Chapter 32

Over and Done

Saturday

Andrew dropped to the floor bringing Chelsea with him. When his arms flopped, releasing her from his hold, she knew it was over.

Lucas took the shot before he even thought about it and hoped his training wouldn’t let him down. He raced to her and dropped to his knees. He ensured Chad Wilson was dead before holstering his gun.

“Oh God, I’m so glad I found you, babe,” he whispered into her ear. Lucas tenderly scooped Chelsea up. He kissed her gently on the lips and stroked her matted hair.

Maggie passed him a towel, which he pressed against the wound on her neck. She then located a blanket and helped Lucas to wrap Chelsea securely within it.

“I thought I would never see you again,” she replied in a strained voice.

“Shh, don’t talk anymore. Let’s get you to the hospital.”

“Charlotte?”

“Is in the hospital. She’s alright.”

He took her outside to the awaiting ambulance and stood beside her as they attended to her.

“I’ll be right behind you,” he told her as they loaded her in. “I love you,” he whispered but she didn’t hear him.

Once the ambulance was on its way, Lucas walked around to the side of the house and sunk slowly to the ground. This was where Maggie found him sitting with his back against the house, his head and arms resting on bent knees.

“Hey, you ok partner?” she asked him.

“Yeah, I just need a minute.”

“She’s still alive, Lucas. You found her.”

“Yes but did you see what he did to her?”

“Yes I did and also what we can’t see.”

“You think I’m worried about whether he ... touched her?”

“Well, yeah, maybe.”

“If he did, I can deal with it and so will she.”

“Then what’s the problem? I thought you’d be tailing that bus.”

“I came so close to losing her and I don’t ever want to feel like that again.”

“Well hopefully you won’t have to.”

“Exactly, if I’m not with her, then I won’t if anything does.”

“Are you saying you’re going to walk away now, after everything she’s just been through? I can’t believe it. She makes you so happy.”

“I can’t go through this again.”

“She’s not your parents, Lucas. She isn’t dead.”

“Yes but what if something else happens to her? I’ve had a taste of what that would be like and I don’t think I could take it. I lost my head when she was gone. I have not been doing my job properly since I met her. I lost focus. I should have been at the house when he turned up and took her. If I’d shown her the sketch we may have been able to identify who Chad Wilson was and we could have prevented this from happening. And we still don’t know where Wesley Robinson is, because that wasn’t him.”

“I don’t think Wesley had anything to do with this. I think Chad Wilson was working alone.”

“Why? What could the motive be?”

“We’ll have to wait and ask Chelsea about that when she is recovered enough to talk to us, if she even knows. Are you in love with her?”

“Totally and unconditionally but she’ll be better off without me. I didn’t protect her. I’d rather try and get over her now than have to do it later, when it will be that much harder.”

She shrugged. “It’s your happiness. Good luck with that.” She shook her head and walked off.

* * *

At the hospital, a nurse came into Charlotte’s room to inform them that Chelsea was alive and being treated.

“Oh thank heavens,” Sarah murmured. “Please let us know when we can see her.”

“Is Lucas Hudson here?” Charlotte asked.

“Yes, I believe so. He’s in the waiting room.”

“Can you ask him to come and see me please?”

“Sure, I’ll go get him for you.”

“Thanks.”

A few minutes later a tired and drained looking Lucas trundled into the room.

“Lucas,” Charlotte said. “Come here.”

He ambled over and perched uncomfortably on the edge of her bed. She sat up awkwardly and gave him the biggest hug she could manage with an arm in a sling.

“Thank you for finding my sister.”

“You’re welcome,” he said.

His expression was blank and unreadable.

Charlotte introduced him to the rest of the family, who each in turn, showed him their gratitude.

“Is she ok?” Sarah asked him.

“She’s a little banged up but she’ll be alright.”

“Did he …. do anything else to her besides ...?”

“Um, I don’t know.” He cleared his throat. “I’m sorry but I have to go to the station and fill out some paperwork. I just came to see if you were both ok.”

“Who was he?” Sarah asked.

“Chad Wilson.”

“Who is he and why would he have done such a thing?”

“We are hoping Chelsea will be able to tell us that.”

“She’ll want to see you, Lucas,” Charlotte said.

“I’ll come back later.”

He stood up abruptly, said his goodbyes and strode out.

“Something’s not right with him,” said Charlotte. “I thought he would be happy and relieved, but he looks almost sad. I thought he’d be anxiously pacing the hallways, not going into work.”

“Maybe he’s just tired or in shock. It has been a long couple of days,” Bradley assured her.

“Hmm, I just hope he’s not running away,” she replied with a grim expression. “Chelsea will need him more than ever now.”

* * *

Alone in the room Chelsea attempted to block out the recurring horrors. The screams and pleas of the other poor girl filled her mind as she tried to rest. Chelsea gave up on sleep. Her thoughts switched to Andrew and her confusion over his complete hatred for her. What had she done that was so terrible? Ignored him because she didn’t know him at school? Become engaged to his cousin and unknowingly shattered their relationship? These were very unstable and flimsy reasons to take the lives of five young girls. She couldn’t comprehend it. And he had murdered Wes too. She couldn’t believe Wes was dead. When the reality hit, she choked back a sob. He hadn’t walked out on her – he had been murdered. What possible actions on her part could have provoked such a cruel plan? Was she really the spoilt snob she’d been dubbed most of her life? Was she responsible for Wes’ death? Guilty tears streamed down her face. Lucas, where are you? I need you. This only prompted fresh tears and agonising sobs.

Chapter 33

Case Closed

Sunday

Consumed by guilt and sorrow, Chelsea tossed in her sleep. When she woke the next morning her entire body throbbed. Although the morphine was dulling her physical pain, it could not alleviate her emotional scars.

The previous night, when the doctor came to see her, she buried her troubles and put on her bravest façade. He advised her she would have to spend several days in the hospital, to rest and recover. She’d listened numbly as he ran through her injuries.

The wound at her throat required twelve stitches and her chest more than twenty per wound. The injuries to her face, though nearly as painful, were much less serious. Her eye and cheek were bruised and her x-rays revealed no breaks. A small laceration on her left eyebrow also required stitches and her nose was fractured. He told her it would heal straight but it didn’t matter to her, she was far to numb to care. As she’d lost blood and was dehydrated they were replacing her fluids via an IV drip. The doctor, concerned about infection, was also giving her medication to starve it off.

After the doctor left, her whole family, except Charlotte, came to see her with concerned expressions.

“I’m alright, really,” she said to them. “He didn’t do anything to me that you can’t see.”

“Who was he, Chelsea?” her dad asked and she explained everything she knew and they commiserated Wes’ loss with mournful expressions.

She asked after Lucas and they told her he came to see Charlotte but had to go back to the station. They stayed with her until she went to sleep, thoroughly exhausted. Staying asleep had been the problem.

* * *

A nurse wheeled Charlotte in, wearing a sling and an unreadable gaze, while Chelsea was attempting to eat her breakfast. When the relief at seeing her safe and well washed over her, fresh tears began to fall.

“I’m so glad you’re ok,” Charlotte said, hugging Chelsea as best she could. “I was freaking out, Chelsea.”

“I’m so happy you’re ok too.” Her tears stung her lip as they cascaded down.

“It takes a lot more than that to stop me.” She smiled. “Chelsea, please don’t cry, are you ok? Are you in pain? Should I get the doctor?”

“No, I don’t need a doctor. I’ll be alright in a minute. I’m just really glad to see you.”

“Me too,” she paused. “Where’s Lucas?”

“I don’t know. I haven’t seen him. He’s probably busy. I’m sure I’ll see him later.” Hoped was more the word.

“He’d better.”

“Why wouldn’t he?”

“No reason.” She shrugged and averted her eyes.

“Charlotte?”

“When we saw him last night, he looked kind of sad and made excuses about why he wasn’t waiting until he could see you. He had on his stone face detective look. He was most likely just tired and still in shock. I’m reading into nothing.”

Chelsea didn’t say anything for a few moments trying to gather her thoughts. “I thought he would be here after the doctor left last night or at least this morning. I know it would be hard to see me like this, but I still thought he’d be here.”

“You do look pretty awful.”

“Gee thanks, Charlotte.”

“You know what I mean. He loves you. He was doing it tough when you were missing. I’m sure he’ll be here as soon as he can.”

Chelsea nodded but she wasn’t feeling as confident as Charlotte appeared to be.

“Time for you to return to your room,” said the nurse as she walked in. “You both need to rest.”

Charlotte rolled her eyes and waved as she was wheeled away.

By mid morning Chelsea still hadn’t seen Lucas since he put her in the ambulance. Her despondency grew with each passing minute.

* * *

Chelsea managed to get a couple of hours sleep before lunch arrived. She attempted a few bites but found she couldn’t stomach it and proceeded to push the peas and tasteless mashed potatoes around the plate. Thoughts swirled around her mind like the marks left by her fork in her food. She gave up and pushed it aside. Her heavy heart filled with angst. The pain living inside her chest was more vivid and intense than the wounds on the outside. Where was Lucas?

It was late afternoon before she received another visitor, however, it wasn’t from the detective she longed to see.

Maggie sat on a chair beside the bed. “Hey, are you feeling?”

“A bit sore but it could be worse. I’m not even going to think about looking in the mirror for a while,” she said, trying to be cheerful.

“You look a little beat up but not too bad.” Maggie smiled. “Do you mind if we run through what happened just so we can close the case. If you’re not up to it, I can come back later or tomorrow.”

“No, it’s fine.” She looked down at her hands clasped together in her lap. “Where’s Lucas?”

“He hasn’t been to see you yet?”

Chelsea shook her head without lifting her eyes.

“I thought he’d already been. He kind of opted out from doing this part. It was a bit more than he wanted to hear I think. He went home to get some rest. He didn’t sleep much the last couple of days. He was kind of going out of his mind.”

“Yeah, well me too and I’ve been told that already. Still doesn’t explain his absence,” she said, still looking down. “Let’s get this out of the way.”

“Sure,” said Maggie warily. “I’ll ask the tough ones first.”

Chelsea nodded her consent.

“Can you tell me what happened?”

Chelsea began from the beginning and told Maggie the story as she relived every moment again in her mind. She finished by voicing her confusion and guilt. That she couldn’t understand how he’d been driven to kill first Wes and then the girls. That it appeared he been consumed with jealousy and anger that she didn’t know she had caused or how. That, because of his obsession with her, and his jealousy of Wes’ love for her, he had destroyed five lives and families. When she reached the end of the horrific story, guilt threatened to consume her.

“I’m sorry about Wes.” Maggie paused and Chelsea offered a weak smile of thanks. “The doctor has filled me in on your injuries but he didn’t do a rape kit so I have to ask whether you were sexually assaulted?”

“No, he tried but I distracted him. He was interrupted again when you and Lucas knocked the first time, thankfully.”

Maggie could see the guilt in Chelsea’s expression and hear it in her voice. She determined she needed to prove to Chelsea that she didn’t do anything to incite Andrew Smyth to murder. “Chelsea, this wasn’t in any way your fault, any of it. This man was unstable, probably insane. You absolutely mustn’t blame yourself.”

Chelsea didn’t answer.

“Are you ok?” Maggie waited and Chelsea offered a quick nod. “I don’t think there is much more we need to know. We’ll do more background work on Smyth but he is deceased and all the evidence is in his house so we should have all we need. The rest you probably don’t know anyway, so we can close this without going into any more detail from you. If I do need anything else, is it ok if I come back?”

“Yes of course, whatever you need.”

* * *

As Maggie walked out of the hospital, she realised that Chelsea hadn’t looked up once. It appeared that guilt was destroying Chelsea’s soul and the one person she needed had abandoned her. When she got back to the station, she found Lucas finishing off some paperwork.

“Did you get some rest?” she asked.

“Yeah, a bit and then I cleaned up and came back.” He cleared his throat. “Um, how is she?”

“How do you think, Lucas?” she said tightly. “You could go and find out for yourself and stop being a coward. If you are actually going to break up with her at least have the decency to tell her.”

“I don’t know what I’m going to do yet. I’m not ready to see her like that again just yet.”

“This isn’t just about you, Hudson. She’s just been through a horrific ordeal and found out her fiancé was murdered. She needs you more than ever now. You can at least go and see her, for her.”

“Get off my case, Maggie. I’ll go when I’m ready.”

“I’m just about to type up my notes and I think you should read them. Do you at least want to know who he was and why he did this?”

“Knowing the gory details aren’t going to help.”

“She blames herself for everything that happened.”

“Well she shouldn’t.”

“He didn’t touch her either. Not in the way he did the others. She said he got distracted and then interrupted by us. I don’t know whether that makes any difference to you or not.”

“It doesn’t, I told you it has nothing to do with that but I’m relieved she didn’t have to suffer through that as well. I’m still not going to read your notes. I don’t want to know ... it’s hard enough. Are you able to finish closing the investigation? I don’t want to think about it anymore and we have an arson case with a body and someone needs to attend the scene.”

“Fine, go,” she said curtly.

After he left she shook her head.

Men!

She typed out her notes and left the file on his desk. He needed to know how much she needed him. Knowing how stubborn he could be, Maggie did the only thing she could think to help them. She picked up the phone to call Carrie, for the second time that week.

Chapter 34

Heartbreak

Sunday

Gavin and Lauren called by to see Chelsea with a large bouquet of flowers from Bloom, which brightened the room but did little to shift her dread. She put on a brave face for her visitors who filtered in over the afternoon and felt slightly comforted by the friendly faces of her family and friends. None of them was Lucas. Chelsea’s heartache was more intense than all her external injuries combined.

Her thoughts went to Wes and her heart broke for the loss of his life. The only consolation was that their love had been torn apart by a heartless killer, not because of anything she had done. Then again, Andrew had murdered him because of her. What was worse?

Her first love was murdered because of his association with her and the second absent when she needed him. Lucas. How could he stay away for so long? Why was he avoiding her? If it was him and not her lying in the hospital bed, she would never have left his side. She understood he was working but was a five minute visit too much to ask? Annoyance replaced despondency for the moment until realisation hit. Did he care so little about her? Did he love her at all? Maybe she was only a passing fancy? Another conquest. Or had she simply driven him away? Despair overwhelmed her again. Deciding to find out once and for all, she reached for the phone.

“Hudson,” his voice sent her heart into sudden nervous palpitations. Did she really want to hear this?

“Hi,” she squeaked. Now that she had him on the phone, she didn’t know what she wanted to say.

“Hello, Chelsea,” he answered her in a formal, polite tone. “How are you feeling?”

“I’ve been better.”

“Yeah, um, I suppose you have. I hope they’re looking after you.”

What is with the tone? Why is he being courteous, polite, just as he would with someone he didn’t know? Like a witness!

“Of course, it’s a hospital, Lucas,” she said. Was it possible her heart could break further?

“I’m sorry I haven’t been in to see you. I’ve been swamped and there’s a new case.”

“Five minutes wouldn’t hurt you, Lucas.”

“I’ll come a bit later, okay?”

“Suit yourself.” She hung up.

What was with him? Why was he being so indifferent? She was right he didn’t love her. What little was left of Chelsea’s broken heart shattered to the floor.

* * *

After attending the arson scene, Lucas drove around for a while and tried to get his head together. Chelsea’s call caught him off guard and he hadn’t known what to say. Guilt clutched his chest but he still could not bring himself to see her. He couldn’t bear the thought of ending it with her either. Confusion played havoc in his mind.

His thoughts drifted back to the previous day. After leaving the hospital, he’d gone back to the station and filed his report regarding the shooting. He wanted to get it out of the way so the case could be closed and he wouldn’t have to think about it or her.

He’d gone home to catch up on some much needed sleep but it hadn’t come. All he could think about was the knife at her throat and the blood running down her neck. He had never wanted to get involved with anyone, ever. Then he’d met Chelsea and she’d turned his world upside down.

Her kidnapping nearly sent him crazy. He never wanted to feel dread and helplessness again, as he had the day his parents died. But Lucas did feel it all over again and it was almost too much. He had to walk away. He wouldn’t be able to take it again.

That morning, after a useless attempt at trying to rest, he discovered he still wasn’t ready to face anything just yet, especially her. He called Maggie and asked her to cover for him for a few hours and she kindly said she would.

“Take all the time you need,” she told him. “As long as the decision you make is the right one.”

He’d spent all morning thinking about her and their time together, which merely caused his heart to ache. If it hurt this much and she was still alive, imagine how much it would hurt if she wasn’t. This was the mantra he repeated over and over but his heart wouldn’t listen. So to escape reliving their memories, he showered and went to work.

Now he didn’t know what to do. Maggie was right - he was a coward and he decided he’d better make a decision, so he drove towards the hospital.

* * *

Chelsea was lost in her memories when Lucas trudged in, eyes downcast. He slumped into the nearby chair. She noticed immediately that he could not, would not, lift his eyes to her. She knew they would be dark and troubled.

“How are you feeling?” he asked.

“I’m not going to tell you until you look at me.”

He brought his eyes to hers and the unmistakable look of regret and sadness was etched within them. His expression however, remained blank.

“I’m fine,” she said shortly.

“Chelsea …” He paused as he traced her injuries with his eyes before looking down again. “I can’t go through that again. Losing my parents and seeing them that day was the worst thing that has happened to me, until Thursday. I never wanted to ever get close to anyone so I wouldn’t ever have to feel loss like that again and …” He trailed off, unsure of what to say.

“And what, Lucas?” she said coolly. “You would rather be alone and sad than scared and happy?”

“Something like that,” he mumbled.

She didn’t answer, so he continued. “You’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever met. I guess I just got lost in the moment and I ....”

“Just go,” she said to him cutting him off.

“Chelsea I …”

“I ... said ....go.”

He stood up and walked out without looking at her. Dumbfounded, Chelsea curled up and hugged the pillow to her chest. Hot tears stung her face as the pain consumed her.

Chapter 35

Indifference

Sunday

It felt as though his heart had been ripped out. Lucas thought it was impossible to feel worse than he already did, only to discover it wasn’t. Work was the only answer, so he drove towards the precinct with the intent of absorbing himself in the arson investigation. Perhaps he could forget her face and how battered it was because, at the moment, it was a permanent scar in his mind.

Her left eye was various shades of purple and yellow, with stitches in the corner near the eyebrow. Her bottom lip was split and swollen and there was a large dark bruise on her right cheek. Both wrists were bandaged, as was her throat, and he definitely did not want to imagine what was underneath.

Seeing her battered and bruised had been what tipped him over the edge. Walking away was the only option. He hadn’t protected her and she’d gotten hurt. He had lost focus and she had almost lost her life. Yes, he was going to be alone and miserable but he knew that it was better than living with the constant fear of her death. He loved her and he was doing this for her.

As he was about to climb out of the car, his phone rang again.

“Hudson.”

“Hello, Lucas, how are you?”

“I’m fine, Carrie.”

“You’re always fine but I want to know how you really are. Come over after work. Nathan is taking the kids to a movie so I thought I would cook you some dinner. I doubt you’ve eaten properly in the last couple of days. I won’t take no for an answer. See you at seven.” She hung up.

He dropped into the station on the way to Carrie’s to drop off his notes from the arson case to be typed up in the morning. Chelsea’s file was sitting on his desk and he knew Maggie had left it there, urging him to read it. He picked it up and thumbed the cover as he contemplated what to do. Did he want to know what was inside? This was hard enough. Knowing about her ordeal was definitely not going to help. Andrew Smyth, or Chad Wilson, or whatever his name was had been deranged and there would be nothing in the file to indicate any differently. Maggie had said Chelsea was feeling guilty but this would be her empathic nature rather than reason. She had nothing to feel guilty about. This wasn’t her fault, it was his. He had been chasing the wrong person all along. Throwing the file back on Maggie’s desk he decided to ignore it.

* * *

As he didn’t want to make the lecture he was about to receive any worse, Lucas ensured he arrived at his sister’s house promptly at seven. Nathan, Mabel and Tommy were heading towards the car as he walked to the door.

“Uncle Lucas,” they both cried together before running over to hug his legs.

“Are you coming to the movies with us?” Mabel asked him.

“Not tonight, Mabe Babe. I’m having dinner with your mum.”

“Will you be taking us out tomorrow?” Tommy asked.

“No, I have to work this weekend but I promise next week, okay?”

“Okay,” they chimed and ran towards their father’s car.

“Being happy is terrifying but it is worth it.” Nathan patted him on the back and then followed his children to the car.

“Wow, you look miserable,” Carrie said.

He shrugged.

“Come and tell me what is going on in that head of yours.”

“Nothing, Carrie. I’m fine.”

“Yes, so you said.”

She guided him into the dining room, put a plate and a beer down in front of him and began her inquisition.

“So, I hear you’re going to walk away from the best thing that ever happened to you.”

“Who told you that?” he asked her between bites.

“Maggie did.” She paused. “Before you get cranky, I would have found out anyway.”

He shrugged again and continued eating.

“Lucas, I thought you loved her. How can you do this, especially after everything she’s been through?”

“I’m doing this because of everything that happened. Besides too late now, it’s done.”

“What has gotten into you? Yesterday you were devastated at the thought of losing her and today you walk away.”

He shrugged. “It ran its course. She was kidnapped and it was my job to find her as it was my job to investigate the murders. I was concerned because I had a thing with her. I wasn’t focused enough to do my job and I blame myself for what happened.”

“Lucas! Stop using your tough detective act with me.”

“I’m not.”

“What happened to the Lucas I saw last Sunday?”

He shrugged. “He got caught up in the moment I guess. The moment has passed. This is great by the way.”

“Ok, if you’re going to hide behind this bravado, Lucas—“

“I’m not,” he cut her off. “Why is this your concern anyway?”

“Damn it, Lucas. Stop it!”

He looked up at her and his composure crumbled.

“I just can’t do it, Carrie. Look how I reacted when she was gone and I’d only known her just over a week. It is only going to get harder the longer I know her and if anything happened to her again, it would be the end of me,” he said his voice full of torment.

“Ah, there you are.” She paused. “Lucas, honey, I already told you about what-ifs. You can’t go through life worrying about what might happen.”

“It did happen, Carrie. I didn’t protect her because I couldn’t think straight when I was with her.”

“You really believe this is your fault?”

“Things seem to happen to people that love me.”

“She’s still alive, Lucas and she is because of who you are.”

“That is not the point, Carrie.”

“Well, what is?”

“That I was right all along about not to getting involved. I knew my heart wouldn’t be able to take it.”

“You’re so stubborn.”

“Look who’s talking.”

“Ok, be a hard head about this but I think you deserve to be happy and I think Chelsea is the girl who will do that. I saw you with her and I got my little brother back for the first time in thirteen years. Yes, you’re terrified but we all feel like that, Lucas. You think it was easy for me? I can tell you that it wasn’t. As much as I loved Nathan, the fear felt like it was bigger.”

“Exactly my point.”

“I’m not finished,” she said, frowning at him. “Once the love grew stronger the fear went away. The chance to be happy was greater than the fear. The feeling of being in love was so wonderful that it didn’t matter what would or could happen tomorrow. All that matters is how you feel each day, and to cherish every moment. You’re just going to be miserable without her anyway.”

“Why do you think I’m finding it so difficult? I think about her every moment of every day. The ache I feel because I’m not with her, that I’m not there for her is getting worse but I … just ... can’t ...”

“I know, honey but how does it feel when you’re with her?”

“Like there’s no-one else in the world.”

“Then take the chance. Something bad has already happened and she’s still alive. You should be relieved, not running away because she might not be.”

“I hurt her. She won’t want to see me now.”

“I think you’re underestimating her feelings for you.”

“I have to think about it some more.”

“I think you do too much thinking and what you should be doing is following your heart. Now there is nothing more I can say. It’s up to you now.”

“You’re right it is up to me and I thought I’d already made my decision.”

“Well I think it’s the wrong one,” she told him taking away his dinner dishes. “Maybe you should go home. I’m far too annoyed at you right now.”

Lucas thought about everything Carrie had said to him while sitting alone in his barren apartment. With his heart empty and his mind full of Chelsea, he tried once again to get the sleep he needed.

Chapter 36

Home

Sunday

After Lucas had left her the previous day, Chelsea spent the rest of the afternoon and night with her misery. She told the nursing staff she didn’t want any more visitors. She couldn’t believe it could possibly hurt so much after only knowing him a week. Chelsea couldn't remember feeling this awful, even when Wes left her and they’d been together three years.

Wes. He hadn’t left her though had he?

She shuddered and decided that door needed to be closed, permanently. Guilt would consume her if she didn’t. She didn’t want to believe her very existence drove Andrew to destroy so many lives. He had been unstable and she should be grateful for being alive. She had assumed Lucas would be too but how wrong she’d been. Did she push too hard, ask too many questions? Had she wanted too much too soon? She’d pushed Lucas away with her excessive questions, her neediness.

The idea of returning to her empty house filled with memories drove a wedge of pain through her already shattered heart. The thought of getting on with her life or even Bloom held little appeal. What was she going to do now? Chelsea pondered over this while nursing her heartache. She had some decisions to make.

She’d made up her mind only moments before Charlotte was wheeled in again for a visit after lunch.

“Sorry I haven’t come to visit again before now but the drill sergeant nurse wouldn’t let me.” She frowned at the nurse pushing the chair. “She says we need our rest but I feel perfectly rested and can’t wait to get out of here.”

“In a couple of days,” the nurse told her and then left.

“So you look as gloomy as me. Are you ready to go home too?”

“Yes but not back to my house. I want to go home, back to Mum and Dad’s.”

“You probably need a holiday. It’s a good idea.”

“Not for a holiday, Charlotte. Permanently.”

“What? Why?”

“There’s nothing for me here.”

“What about Lucas? And Bloom?”

“The shop can be sold. I can open one down there. Since Mrs. Newman’s store closed, there’s no florist and there is a whole market waiting to be serviced.”

“What about Lucas?’

“What about him?”

“I thought you were in love with him.”

“I am, it seems - he isn’t.”

“What happened?”

“He decided I wasn’t worth sticking around for.”

“He’s just scared. He was going out of his mind when you were missing. Someone doesn’t do that if they don’t care, Chelsea. He’ll come around.”

“If that really was the case, where is he now I’m safe? Besides I’m not sitting around here waiting for him to make up his mind.”

“I’m not saying that. I’m simply suggesting you hold off making any decisions right now. Give it a bit of time and then come home.”

“I’ve made my decision. I’ll call Mum later and have her put the house up for rent or sale. The shop I can sell when I get home.”

“Is this what you really want?”

“No, yes, I don’t know.”

The drill sergeant returned. “That’s long enough.”

“Of course it is,” Charlotte said, glaring at the nurse. “Please just think about it some more, Chels,” she said as she was wheeled away.

* * *

That afternoon the doctor came in and checked on her.

“How are you feeling, Chelsea?

“Sore.” She offered a small smile.

“I’m pleased with how you’re progressing. You have finished your course of antibiotics and your blood tests show you are free of infection. Your wounds are healing well, so I think you can go home in the morning.”

“Thanks, Doctor.”

“You’re welcome.” He offered her a warm smile before making notes on her chart.

Chelsea was grateful to be leaving and couldn’t wait to pack her things so she could get to her parents' house as soon as possible. Now that she’d made the decision to be where she felt happy and safe, she was anxious to get started.

“My only condition for sending you home early is you have to promise to rest.”

“I will.” He smiled again and left her to it.

Moments later Carrie walked in, her expression guarded as she sat in the chair.

“Hey, Chelsea, how are you feeling?” She stopped when Chelsea turned to her. “Ouch! Looking at you, I think I have my answer.” She smiled.

“I think it looks worse than it feels.” Chelsea smiled in return, trying to feign a happy face.

“How are you, really?”

“I’ll be better when I go home.”

“When are they releasing you?”

“Tomorrow morning then I’ll be packing to go home, back to my parents' house.”

“How long are you going for?”

“I’m going to stay. There is nothing for me here anymore. I’m going to sell the shop and start again.”

“Lucas does love you. He’s just scared.”

Chelsea just shrugged. “I need to be around people that love me right now. I need to … heal.”

“For what it’s worth, I think you’re very brave.”

“I feel a little bit like a coward, like I’m running away.”

“Sweetie, you’re not a coward, Lucas is.”

Chelsea shrugged again, what more was there to say? He no longer wanted to be in her life and she had to accept it.

They chatted about other things for a few minutes until Chelsea pretended she was tired and Carrie left.

The moment she was gone, Chelsea called her mother. After a long drawn out conversation with Sarah, who asked numerous times if she was sure it was what she wanted to do, Chelsea assured her it was. Sarah told her she’d take care of it on Monday.

* * *

Hoping he wouldn’t have time to think about her, Lucas buried himself in work. He would get over her in time; didn’t they say it healed all wounds?

When Maggie came in, she took one look at Lucas and knew immediately he hadn’t sorted things out or made the right decision.

“Do not even start with me, Maggie and thanks for calling my sister again.”

“I’m just trying to help you, Lucas. I want you to be happy. I was starting to enjoy the new you.”

“Well, I just want everyone to stay out of my business.”

“Ok, point taken. Now where are we with the arson case? Better get me up to speed.”

Lucas ran through the case and his findings along with what the arson specialist from the fire department had discovered. They spent the remainder of the morning conducting interviews and deciding on the next course of action.

By the end of a long day fatigue began to kick in, so Lucas, after grabbing a takeout dinner, went home to crash. He was just about to jump into bed, when his phone rang.

What now?

“Hudson.”

“I’m sorry about last night, honey.”

“That’s ok, Carrie. I’m used to it.”

“Ha ha, look, I’m just worried about you.”

“I’ll be right.”

“Ok but I have something else to say and then I’ll drop it.”

“Good because I’m tired and I don’t want to talk about it anymore.”

“She’s leaving.”

“Who is and where?”

“Don’t play dumb, Lucas. Chelsea is leaving the hospital and the city. She’s going back to live with her parents. I think she’s selling the shop and moving permanently.”

His heart stopped when he realised he would probably never see her again.

You weren’t going to anyway.

This is what he tried to tell himself but he couldn’t understand why he suddenly felt so lost and alone.

“Lucas, you still there?”

“Yeah, I’m here.”

“Well, are you going to let her go?”

“It’s not my choice, Carrie. It’s hers.”

“Yes but you could change her choice.”

“She’ll be better off with her family. They’ll take care of her.”

“So can you.”

“Cleary. I did a rotten job of that already.”

“It wasn’t your fault, Lucas.” When he didn’t answer, she continued. “Okay fine, I just thought I would tell you, so you would at least realise that she would be gone from your life for good and let you discover how you feel about that. Good night.” Then she was gone.

Chelsea was leaving? How did he feel about this? Like someone had taken a knife and stabbed him through the heart.

She’ll be better off.

He went to bed and dreamt about her beautiful face being constantly out of reach. When he reached for her, she moved further away until he couldn’t see her anymore. Lucas woke up with a start and looked around the blackened room. Would he ever be able to escape his dreams?

* * *

Chelsea didn’t intentionally tell Carrie that she was leaving, it had slipped out. Well, sort of. She knew that deep down she did want to know what Lucas’ reaction would be to her leaving. Would he care?

She spent her last night in hospital, curled in a ball, wondering if she would ever be as happy again as she was for that one week with Lucas. Chelsea had believed she had found the one man she had wanted to spend forever with. Her Pa had said she would know. Had she gotten it wrong all over again?

Chapter 37

Goodbye

Monday

After attempting to eat her breakfast to find she couldn’t stomach it again, Chelsea decided to get up and shower before packing her things. Gingerly, she undertook the task and it ended up taking most of the morning to ready herself to leave. Once the doctor had cleared her, she decided to visit Charlotte on her way out.

“Hey, honey, how are you feeling?’

“Like someone shot me in the shoulder.”

“Good, you’re still as feisty as ever. You must be feeling better.”

“I want to leave but I have to stay one more day. I just want to go home.”

“I know, honey. When you’re discharged from the hospital tomorrow, I’ll have packed my clothes and we can go home altogether.”

“I guess you haven’t changed your mind then.”

“No I haven’t.”

“Suit yourself, but I wouldn’t let him get away.”

“It’s not my choice, it’s his. He broke up with me. Now I have to go, Mum will be waiting. See you tomorrow.”

On the way home in the car, Sarah began to drill her eldest child.

“Chelsea there really is no hurry to leave. I can stay with you for a few weeks while you consider some more.”

“I don’t need to consider anything, Mum. Nothing has gone right for me since moving to the city. I give up and I just want to go home.”

“At least think about leasing Bloom out for a while, in case you want to come back.”

“I won’t be coming back.”

“Are you sure, Chelsea? Once it’s done, you can’t change your mind.”

“I know and I won’t change my mind.”

Sarah dropped the subject and Chelsea remained silent. As soon as they walked in the door, Chelsea headed upstairs.

“That’s a good idea, honey, you go and rest. I’ll pick up some groceries.”

“I’m not going to rest, Mum, I’m going to pack.”

“That can wait. I’ll help you with it later. There really is no hurry. Charlotte won’t be leaving the hospital until tomorrow. Besides, you should be resting.”

“Mum, I rested in the hospital. I just want to get started.”

Sarah knew to argue with her would be pointless and let her go.

As Chelsea entered her room she flashed back to the last morning she’d seen Lucas sleeping in her bed, his handsome face so peaceful and .....

Stop it!

She opened her wardrobe, determined to make a start and cease the memories that threatened to take over her thoughts. As she began to pull clothes from the hangers and throw them on the bed, she noticed an overnight bag sitting on the floor of the cupboard. Puzzled, she picked it up and after opening it, regretted it instantly. Lucas’ masculine aroma assaulted her. Dropping the bag back where she had retrieved it, she stepped back until she ran into the bed and fell back onto it.

She lay down and put her head on the pillow Lucas had slept on and his scent greeted her once more. How am I going to get through this again? Heart wrenching sobs overcame her and she released the heartache she thought would never leave.

* * *

Lucas blew off work, something of a habit of late. He knew Chelsea would be leaving the hospital today and wondered again whether he’d made the right decision. He'd failed to protect her. It was the best thing for them both. He tried to convince himself and his heart that he’d made the right decision, but it did little to remove the emptiness living inside him. Why was this so hard?

I need closure. Once I have that, I can move on.

Remembering he’d left some of his possessions at her house, he thought it a perfect opportunity to collect them and to say goodbye. He drove slowly, dreading the thought of having to see her one last time and then never seeing her again. Sarah answered the door and her expression was a combination of hope and irritation.

“Hello, Lucas, please come in. Would you like some coffee?”

“No, thanks. I just came by to say goodbye.”

“I think she’s resting and I would prefer that you didn’t disturb her right now.”

“Maybe I should go.”

“No, have a coffee with me. I want to talk to you.”

Leaving no room for argument, she walked to the kitchen, poured two cups and gestured for him to join her outside.

“Is this really what you want?” she asked him bluntly.

“No, yes. It’s the best thing for both of us.”

“No, Lucas, it’s best for you.”

“I ... can’t ... I didn’t protect her, I ...” He stopped, unable to find the right words. “I’m not going to change my mind. She’s better off.”

Sarah shook her head and took away his untouched coffee. “She’s upstairs. Just say goodbye and leave. She’s been through enough.”

She disappeared into the house while Lucas sat for several moments, preparing himself to face Chelsea again.

Entering the house had been like walking straight into his memory. He’d relived each moment as he walked up the stairs, the visions flooding his mind, suffocated him. As he walked into her room, he swallowed down the lump in his throat.

His breath caught when he saw her curled up asleep on the bed, hugging the pillow on what had been, for a short time, his side. It took every ounce of his willpower not to join her. Instead, he sat at the foot of the bed and gently called her name.

“Sorry for intruding,” he said quietly when she opened her eyes.

“What are you doing here?” She sat up abruptly at the sound of his voice. Wincing, she brought a hand to her chest to press on her bandage. His throat constricted as his heart leapt into it. He cleared it.

“I heard you were leaving. I came to say goodbye.”

“Why? Wait, don’t answer that.” She furrowed her brow and crinkled her nose. Lucas went to lift his hand to touch her face. It took all his resolve to stop himself. “You’ve said it now, so goodbye.”

He said nothing for a moment. “Did I leave any of my things here?”

“Probably,” she mumbled, well aware that he had but trying to make it as hard for him as possible.

She climbed tentatively from the bed and it was Lucas’ turn to wince. Chelsea opened her wardrobe and retrieved the bag holding his belongings. She threw the bag at him before walking over to her side table and retrieving his journal.

“Here have your old life back while you’re at it.” She threw the book at him. The gesture and her bitterness nearly broke him

“Chelsea, I’m sorry.”

“I don’t want to hear it,” she answered through gritted teeth.

“I didn’t protect you from him.”

She looked at him, puzzled. “You blame yourself?”

“Yes.”

“It wasn’t your fault, it was mine.”

“How can it be your fault?”

“You obviously don’t know the full story then.”

Damn he should have read the file. What could possibly have happened for her to even think this was her fault. “There is no way you could have done anything to make that .... him do what he did. The only one to blame is me. I should have done more.”

“It’s not your fault. I don’t blame you and neither should you. Now you have got that off your chest, you can go.”

She walked slowly out to the balcony and shut the sliding door tentatively behind her. The exertion caused her face to grimace in pain. Again his heart mirrored her expression.

He stared sadly after her for a moment before standing abruptly. He collected his bag and strode out, leaving his leather bound memories on her bed.

Chapter 38

Healing the Soul

One Month Later

Chelsea’s external wounds were healed but her heart refused to mend. Being around her family, although comforting, did little to alleviate her sorrow or shift her loneliness, so she simply withdrew. Try as she might she could not forget about Lucas. She told herself over and over that she was being ridiculous, juvenile and simply pathetic but her heart wasn’t willing to listen. Was this what it was like to give up on life?

Charlotte took her out and encouraged her to date, which Chelsea politely refused to do. Her ever-changing moods, from melancholy to anger and loneliness and back to melancholy, started to worry her family. The only company she kept was a leather bound book. Even though it was painful, she couldn’t control the urge to read it. She wanted to stop torturing herself but did it nevertheless. Having read it several times through, she’d come to understand the man who broke her heart better than she knew herself.

When she put Bloom on the market and urged her parents to do the same with the house, they did so reluctantly. Her Pa tried to coax her back into life and Charlotte advised her daily that there were plenty of fish in the sea. Chelsea only wanted one fish. Pathetic.

* * *

Maggie began to grow tired of her partner’s impossible mood swings. He growled at everyone and was abrasive with her. She couldn’t remember ever seeing him behave this way.

When they first became partners, he was insensitive and apathetic and, for a short time, she’d managed to entice him out of this, albeit only slightly. Over the years he had softened a little but after he'd met Chelsea, the real Lucas had resurfaced.

She'd had many conversations over the past month with Carrie, who reinforced Maggie’s belief that Lucas had changed for the better during his week with Chelsea. She told Maggie how he reminded her of the seventeen year old Lucas, the sweet young man who disappeared when they lost their parents. Chelsea had relit Lucas’s soul, which had turned dark once again. Maggie and Carrie were at a loss.

* * *

Lucas woke up with a hangover, again. This, he discovered, was the only way to cease the images haunting him day and night. Every dark haired girl on the street during the day caused his heart to leap. At night, in his dreams, he relived every moment of their time together. There was no escape.

He opened one eye cautiously and was relieved to find he was alone. He had come close many times over the past weeks, in his drunken haze, to bringing home another nameless girl. This is how he used to fill his empty days, before Chelsea, when his heart was a shadow. Meaningless nights with just any girl would do nothing to ease the oppressing loneliness he lived with now that she was gone.

Last night was still blurry in his mind as he tried to recall through the fog what had occurred. He remembered attempting to pick up a brunette in the bar. He was now, in the cold light of day, thankful he hadn’t. His self-loathing was appeased only slightly, by the fact that he hadn’t used some poor girl to mollify his emptiness, albeit for one night. He knew though, even if he hadn’t been alone, he would still have been lonely.

This morning, for this very reason, he decided enough was enough.

He was still crazy in love with Chelsea Summerville and it was time to have her in his life again, where she belonged. He no longer desired to wake up alone and without her.

* * *

Two Weeks Later

The drive to her parents' house was scenic and relaxing, though it didn’t calm his ragged heart from beating uncontrollably.

What if she doesn’t want me back in her life?

Three anxious hours later, he drove up the sweeping driveway and stared in awe at the majestic house. Immediately catching the eye were stone pillared balconies jutting from upstairs rooms, while the front alcove leading to a set of double doors looked a little magical. His notions were so fanciful and everything appeared different to him now.

The beautiful, vast gardens, sprinkled with the various colours of summer, brought memories flooding back to a time when they lay whispering to each other in the wee hours. He remembered every little detail now, as though it was yesterday, when she’d recounted stories from her life in Tidwell. Her beautiful face had lit up and her eyes had grown wide and vivacious as she’d spoken about her first love, flowers.

His knock was answered by Charlotte and her first reaction was to scowl before bursting into a beaming smile. He knew the large two story house contained two wings separated by a sweeping staircase through the middle, but a quick glance over Charlotte’s shoulder revealed that Chelsea had understated the house’s size and appearance.

“It’s about time you showed up. Chelsea is sulking upstairs.”

Chelsea sat on a small love seat by a large inviting window providing a view of the lovely gardens below. She was hugging her knees to her chest and her face was turned away towards the window. Beside her on the seat sat his journal and his heart beat frantically in hope. He cleared his throat.

* * *

Chelsea stared out into the garden, unseeing. Someone had purchased both Bloom and her house. Her life in the city was over. Now that it was done, she felt sadder than before. Her parents advised her both properties were purchased through an agent and they were unaware who the buyer actually was. That chapter of her life was now over but she still couldn’t close the book. What was she going to do now?

A familiar throat clearing jolted her from her reverie and for a moment she thought she’d imagined it. She turned slowly to find Lucas perched on the foot of her bed, gazing at her, his face guarded and his eyes amber. Her heart leapt.

“What are you doing here?” she asked.

“I want you to come back to the city.”

“Why?”

“Because I do.”

“Why? Besides, I can’t. I've sold Bloom and the house.”

“I know. I bought them both.”

“What? Why?”

“My parents left me some money, which was more than enough to purchase the shop and house. I want you to come home.”

“Why?”

“Because...”

“Because what, Lucas?”

“Because ... I’m in love with you. I was from the moment I saw you.”

He stood up and strode the short distance across the room. He lifted her up from the seat and drew her in close to him. A wave of emotions coursed through her as she studied his expression. His crooked smile sent her heart into a flurry and his eyes were full of love. His hand came to her face and he ran a fingertip down her cheek and stopped at her chin.

“Can you forgive me?” he asked in a broken voice.

She nodded, unable to speak.

His lips sought hers, lovingly, hungrily. She wrapped her legs around his waist and returned his kiss with vigour, the long lonely weeks pouring from her lips to his. He pulled back to stare into her eyes and saw he was still there.

“I love you too.” She smiled with delight.

“Please come home with me.”

“If you promise you won’t ever leave me again.”

“I’m not going anywhere,” he said and kissed her again.

Epilogue

Six Months Later

“I’m so glad we still live here,” Chelsea said to Lucas while curled up in his lap in their favourite spot. “The view is just too good.”

“It is,” he said, but he was only looking at her.

She began to nibble his ear.

He cleared his throat.

“Ok, shoot,” she said.

“What?” His innocent expression didn’t fool her.

“I know you want to say something important because you cleared your throat and now you have a serious face on.”

“Well, I do have something to ask you and it is very serious,” he said, with a straight face.

“What is it?” she said, looking concerned.

“Well, I was wondering if you would make me really happy and marry me?” He pulled a ring from his pocket.

“Oh Lucas,” she cried, throwing her arms around his neck and kissing him all over his face. “Of course I will. I love you,” she said and she kissed him passionately.

The phone rang, breaking the moment.

“Now who could that be?” she said, uncurling herself and admiring her ring on the way to the phone.

“Hello.”

“Guess what?’

“Hello, Charlotte.”

“Oh hi. Guess what, I have some news.”

“Well as a matter of fact, so do I,” she said, smiling at Lucas.

“You go first.”

“Ok,” she paused for effect. “Lucas and I are getting married.”

Charlotte screamed and then told everyone in the house the news and there was a stream of congratulations and happy cheers.

“So, what’s your news?”

“Well, it’s not as exciting as yours but I’m moving to the city. I have a job with a vet there while doing my last year.”

“That’s great, Charlotte. We can plan the wedding together and you’ll be close by.”

“I’ll be more than close by; I’m going to move in with you and Lucas.” And then she was gone.

- The End -

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