By Begin Again
Savannah, Georgia
St. Simons Island
Friday Night
Cars over-flowing with college students and friends crammed the beach highway, parking in every available space in the East Beach lot and all the grassy areas along the road. Savvy residents roped off their yards and blocked their driveways. Before the Savannah Bulldogs met their football rivals in Jacksonville, Florida, the traditional Frat Beach Party served as the kickoff to a crazy, wild weekend.
The black Lincoln Town Car eased through the congestion, and uncontrolled pedestrians ran wildly between moving cars as they crossed the highway. Vito Moretti, an ex-con, impatiently strummed his fingers against the steering wheel. His passenger, a lifelong friend, Charles Dubois, fidgeted with the radio.
Vito sighed, “Oh, to be their age again. Wild and carefree.”
“You were wild, Vito, so much so, you spent eighteen months in the county jail.”
“Yeah, I started down the wrong road at nineteen, and I’m stilling traveling it. Spending eight years in Georgia’s State Prison gave me an education I won’t ever forget. What about you?”
“Me? I couldn’t afford college, so I fought a war I never understood. I learned a few skills that came in handy, and, fortunately, I served with Jimmy Carrington. Trying to save his life landed me the cushy job of caring for his wife at the manor.”
Both men laughed at their private joke as Vito maneuvered the car down a narrow blacktop drive marked Private Property. A gate blocked the entrance. Vito opened the car window, punched in a code, and waited for access to the property. As the gate opened, he laughed, “Luckily, the old folks never change their passcodes.”
A thick forest of oaks draped in Spanish moss separated the residential property from East Beach. The heavily laden tree branches cast shadows across the expansive lawn, covering the Town Car and its occupants. Vito climbed out of the driver’s seat and popped the trunk, exposing their cargo. Charlie joined him and took a deep breath, shivered, and slowly released the air. The dim cargo light played across the woman’s lifeless face.
Vito’s gruff voice broke the silence. “Let’s get this done.” He tossed one of two backpacks to Charlie. “Grab the other one, and I’ll carry our star.”
Charlie was skeptical. “We going to dump her in the trees?”
Vito shook his head. “Nope, we’re going to the beach party. A giant bonfire sounds perfect right about now.”
“You’re taking a dead woman into all those people? Have you lost your mind?”
“It’s perfect, my friend. They’re so drunk, nobody will notice us. The bonfires are already roaring. We drop a blanket, booze, her stuff, and it looks like a party gone wrong. We’re in and out.”
All those days working out in prison were paying off as Vito tossed the woman over his shoulder and disappeared beyond the tree line, with Charlie following close behind.
********************************
“Henry!” Tina shrieked. “You can’t shoot them. Have you gone mad?” The gray-haired woman’s eyes were wide with fright.
Eighty-two-year-old Henry Pagani and his wife, Tina, were fourth-generation residents of St. Simon Island, near Savannah, Georgia. The quaint villages and winding streets lined with charming shops and breathtaking beaches played host to thousands of tourists during the summer season. The serene, family-friendly atmosphere offered the residents an income plus a fairytale setting to call home except during the annual college beach party.
Tina’s shrill voice startled her husband, hidden behind a four-foot clump of Crinum Lilies. He jerked and stepped back to catch his balance, bumping into a moss-covered oak.
“What’s the matter with you, woman?” Henry snarled. “Get your glasses if you can’t tell the difference between a gun and a Nikon camera.” He waved his camera toward her.
Tina shook her finger at her husband and scowled. “Henry Pagani, if you are taking pictures of those half-naked, drunk-crazed girls on the beach, you’re going to be sorry.” She turned to return inside but added, “I hope you’ll enjoy sleeping in the hammock.”
“It’s the annual Frat Night Party, Tina. Look at all the garbage; we’ll have a big mess to clean up tomorrow. Those dang kids have no respect. Bonfires, booze, and babes are all that’s on their minds. It’s a blend of Girls Gone Wild, Spring Break, and Football Frenzy. These kids are out of control, and someone needs to stop them. Listen to them, screaming, shouting, and smashing things. And the music, if that’s what it’s supposed to be, is deafening.”
Tina scoffed. “You think your pictures are going to make a difference? It’s not going to happen.”
“Maybe.” Henry pointed toward two men staggering from the edge of the trees onto the beach, dragging a woman between them, toward the last of the many burning bonfires. “What do you think those idiots were doing with that girl in the woods? She’s so drunk she can’t walk.” Henry adjusted his telescopic lens, and the camera clicked, clicked, clicked, snapping a series of photos. “This camera is awesome.”
“Come on, Henry. Come inside before you get some crazy ideas from those college boys.”
“You go in, Tina. I’m going to snap a few more pictures.” Tina shrugged, leaving her husband to snap useless photos of wild young people destroying their beautiful beach. The income generated in the small shops this weekend would trump any of her husband’s outcries.
Henry snapped photos of a group funnel drinking, a naked volleyball game, and groups of scantily clad people wildly dancing around campfires. His attention drifted back to the last bonfire. The men appeared to be emptying large liquor bottles over the woman on the blanket. One man was spraying cans of something on her.
A delicious smile adorned Henry’s face, and he murmured to himself, “Hmmm. Whip cream–sweet!”
Ashamed of his thoughts, Henry chastised his momentary fantasy and then chuckled. “Get real, old man! Your days of wild sex-- who am I kidding, any sex, are long gone.”
One of the revelers scattered a bag of trash on the ground, angering Henry. He snapped their picture and two more shots of the raging bonfire and the sparks shooting into the night.
Shaking his head, he aimed his camera and snapped one last picture.
“Boom! Boom! Boom!” The loud explosions ripped through the air. Panic surged across the beach. The drunk, hysteric party-revelers screamed and ran for cover, grabbing random clothes as they disappeared from the beach. Henry hastily collapsed to the ground, continuing to snap pictures of the chaos, including the two men racing toward the trees without the woman.
Standing in the doorway, Tina screamed, “Get in here, Henry. Who’s shooting?”
Henry’s legs shook, barely holding him up, as he stumbled to the doorway. “Something exploded. Probably aerosol cans. I told you those kids were dangerous.”
Tina scowled, “Aerosol cans?”
“Yeah, I think those idiots were spraying whipping cream on the woman. Probably tossed the cans in the bonfire.”
The couple went inside and locked the patio door behind them, drawing the drapes closed to block out the night and the frightful scene unfolding on their lovely beach.
“Let’s go to bed, Tina. That was too much excitement for one night.” Henry hugged his wife of sixty years. “My heart can’t handle the genuine stuff anymore.”
Tina chuckled, “We’ve got the memories, Henry. And some outstanding ones, too.” Tina hugged her husband and kissed him goodnight.
**************
Vito turned the Town Car toward Carrington Manor, leaving the body burning on the beach. After years of considering how to pay back the journalist responsible for exposing the evidence that sent him to prison, Vito was satisfied that the first step of his plan was underway.
On the other hand, Charles hadn’t expected to be involved in a murder and shuddered over Vito’s plans for revenge. Regardless, he was indebted to Moretti, and it prevented him from backing out now.
| Author Notes |
Welcome! Thank you for reading the beginning of "Revenge," a follow-up to Book Three - Secrets in the Wind. I hope you find enjoyment in the story. Allie Shelton is an Investigative Journalist. One of her first assignments resulted in the wrongful arrest and imprisonment of Vito Moretti.
Characters: Vito Moretti - a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - a childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously Marion Carrington - a star in her own mind and suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators |
By Begin Again
NAPA VALLEY, CALIFORNIA
Second Crime Scene
(2800 miles from Savannah, Georgia)
Francesco’s Restaurant
Friday, 10:30 P.M.
“Have you heard from ballistics yet?” Garth snapped as he surveyed the room. His chest tightened when he saw Emmy and Liz consoling Allie at a far table.
“It’s only been two hours since we found the bullet, boss. It takes time.”
“Tell them I need answers, stat. Do you understand, Tango?” Garth couldn’t take his eyes off Allie. “It was supposed to be a beautiful night, but someone had other plans.”
Dozens of FBI agents and law enforcement swarmed Francesco’s dining room. Garth Woodman, the FBI Director’s right-hand man, had wrapped up the case he’d been working on and had arranged an intimate dinner with Allie, aka Allyssa Shelton, Investigative Journalist, and FBI Contributor. Moments after he joined Allie at their table, all hell broke loose.
“Boss, the Director, wants me to record your statement regarding the moments up to the shooting.” Tango knew his boss all too well and waited for the explosion.
Garth’s face was angry, and he growled, “Not now, Tango. I need to walk every inch of the crime scene, inside and out. He can hear about it later.”
Tango winced and stretched out his hand to Garth. It held his cell phone, and the Director was face timing. “Agent Woodhouse, I want you to do it now, and that’s not a request. I am ordering you.”
Garth grabbed the cell from Tango’s hand and turned his back on him. He couldn’t recall the last time the FBI Director had referred to him as Agent Woodhouse. They’d worked together for years and remained on a first-name basis. “Director, I need—”
“Garth, it’s not about what you need. I want you to step away from the scene with Tango and record a statement. Do I make myself clear? Or I can have a jet ready in thirty minutes and come there personally if you prefer.”
“That won’t be necessary,” Garth sighed. “Owen, you know you are the only person who could get away with this, don’t you?”
The Director chuckled. “That’s why I’m on the phone. Now, get it done so you can get back to the investigation. Call me as soon as you know anything.”
“Yes, sir.” Garth shoved the cell phone into Tango’s hand. “You could have warned me.”
“Nope, I was following orders.” Tango fought to keep a straight face. “Shall we go outside?”
Garth’s eyes traveled to Allie. “Give me a minute.” Not waiting for an answer, he moved across the room to the women.
Allie jumped up and rushed toward him, burying her tear-stained face against his chest. “What’s happening? What about my sister? Who shot at us?”
Garth tightened his arms around Allie and stroked the back of her head. “Slow down. Give a guy a chance, okay?”
“Sorry. I’m just so scared. I need to know if Jaz is alright.” She lifted her face toward his and their eyes locked. “Tell me she’s okay.”
“I wish I could, but right now, I don’t have any answers. I’m going to step outside where it’s quiet and record a statement. When I come back, I need you to tell me every detail you can remember about your last conversation with Jaz and anything else you think would help. We need to know where to look for her before we can help.”
“Oh my God, I don’t know. I haven’t heard from Jaz for six months, and that conversation didn’t end well.”
“You can do this, Allie. We need names of people who might know where she was or what she’s been doing. The video was short, but did you recognize the background or the guy? Did you notice anything different about her?”
“I only saw a man’s hand on her arm.” Allie cried again. “I can’t do this, Garth. She expects me to help.”
“And we will help, Allie. We have to start somewhere, and tracking her whereabouts for the last six months might give us a clue. Think hard, Allie. You are our link to finding her.” He hugged her tightly against his chest and then released her. “Emmy and Liz, keep a close eye on her, please.” He kissed the side of Allie’s head. “I’ve got to get back to work.”
Their eyes met before Garth walked back to Tango. “Okay, let’s get this out of the way.”
| Author Notes |
Welcome! Thank you for reading the beginning of "Revenge," a follow-up to Book Three - Secrets in the Wind. I hope you find enjoyment in the story. Allie Shelton is an Investigative Journalist. One of her first assignments resulted in the wrongful arrest and imprisonment of Vito Moretti.
Characters: Vito Moretti - a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - a childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously Marion Carrington - a star in her own mind and suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators |
By Begin Again
JEKYLL ISLAND
Carrington Manor
Garden Veranda
Saturday, 8 A.M.
Dressed in a white shirt and black pants, Charlie joined Vito on the garden veranda. "Hey, Vito, got you a cup of mojo. Just like you like it, black and strong."
"Have you lost your mind?" Vito jumped out of the chair and walked to the dining-room door, checking to see if anyone was around. "What if Marion had been downstairs?"
"What? I'm dressed, and I was bringing you coffee. Isn't that what the butler is supposed to do?" Offended, Charlie gave Vito an indignant look.
"In front of Lady Marian, you are Charles, remember? And I am her husband, James. She might have dementia, but one never knows when a lucid moment might occur."
"I'm sorry, James. I guess I forgot."
"You can't afford to forget if you want to remain living in this luxurious home. James sent you here to care for his wife, and now that he--well, I-- have returned home, we must do our best to keep my wife happy." Vito sighed. "I know it's confusing, but that's the way it has to be. Just do your job, and I'll do mine. Okay?"
Charles set the coffee on the table. "I brought your coffee, sir. It's strong and black as you requested."
"Much better." Vito took several swallows of the hot brew. "Any mention of the beach party on the news this morning?"
"Matter of fact, they announced the East Beach was closed due to an investigation into the death of an unidentified woman. The Sheriff's Department won't be releasing any further information at this time."
"Good. By now, the law has gathered all the clues we conveniently scattered around the bonfire and will contact the California authorities to reach out to Miss Shelton." Vito laughed. "I sure wish I could be there to see her face when they ask her to come to Savannah to identify the body."
"The make-up artist did one fantastic job of transforming Angel into Jasmine, but that was on a video. What about when your journalist sees her in the morgue?"
"Well, I imagine seeing your sister looking like a burnt marshmallow will make her skin crawl."
"Do you think all the stuff we left on the beach will convince her it's Jasmine?"
"Guess if it does, then we'll know she's not as good as everyone says she is. It makes our job a little more complicated, but not impossible. It's a game of Clue, my friend."
"Charles." A female voice called his name as she exited the house. "Oh, there you are. Lady Marian has requested a poached egg, jam and toast, and a cup of Earl Grey on the veranda. Lemon, No sugar." Cheryl hadn't noticed James sitting in the lounge chair. "Sorry, James. I didn't see you there."
"Not a problem. Nice to know my darling wife will join me this morning. I hope she slept well last night."
"Oh, not to worry. I gave Lady Marian the medicine, and she drifted off to sleep immediately." Cheryl smiled. "It was wonderful not to worry about her walking around all night. You get a big thank you from this girl for coming up with that suggestion."
"Can't take credit. I mentioned your concerns for my wife's welfare, and the doctor gave me the prescription." He failed to mention the doctor no longer had his license, and he had paid him handsomely for the pills. "Just doing my best to make life easier for everyone, including our guests in the West Wing."
Cheryl and Charles laughed at Jame's mention of guests. "You mean those wanna-be actresses. I was sorry to hear Angel left so suddenly. Charles said she was Hollywood-bound. Poor girl. She'll be living on the streets in no time instead of in the lap of luxury she enjoyed here."
"I tried to tell her, but she decided to leave. I doubt we will ever hear from her again, though. She said something about getting discovered by Spielberg or Scorsese because she was so hot."
James smothered a laugh. "Hot? She'll probably be one of those that goes down in flames. She wouldn't need much make-up for one of Tarantino's horror flicks."
"She might get burnt real bad, fooling around with the wrong guy." Charles turned away from the others, unable to hide his amusement from James' cruel joke.
Unaware of the undertones shared by the men, Cheryl chimed, "I'll try to make time to clean out Angel's room today. Lady Marian keeps me busy, and she says she's on set today."
"Don't worry about the West Wing, Cheryl. You concern yourself with keeping my wife happy. Charles and I will tend to the area until I can hire some additional help."
"Are you sure?" Cheryl's eyes widened in surprise. "Some days, it is rough, but I don't want you to think I can't do my job."
"You do a great job, my dear. Keeping Lady Marian content is a full-time job. You shouldn't worry about the film studio and a few spoiled starlets as well." James smiled. "Have our leading actress wear the red gown today. I believe she'll be starring as Scarlet O'Hara today. She loves playing feisty women, especially when Rhett Butler is involved."
Cheryl sighed and smiled at her employer. "She's so happy you've come home. And catering to her delusions is unbelievably kind." She turned to leave. "I'll bring her down for breakfast and then lay out her wardrobe. You're a true gentleman and loving husband, James."
"Thank you. That's very kind of you." Both men exploded in laughter as Cheryl disappeared inside.
"Guess I better get breakfast ready for the lady of the house." Charles started to leave but stopped. "What do you want me to do with the Francesco set?"
"We've got a busy day today, so just put it in storage. You can burn it later unless you haven't played with enough fire." James swallowed his cold coffee. "I'll take another cup when you bring Marion's breakfast."
"Sure thing, boss. Oops! I mean, yes, sir. Anything else?"
Before James could answer, Lady Marian, dressed in satin leopard pajamas and an iridescent black taffeta lounging coat, made her grand entrance, swishing the full skirt from side to side.
James jumped from his lounge chair and walked swiftly to his wife's side, planting a passionate Hollywood Style kiss on her lips. "Good morning, darling. I hope I didn't smear your lipstick, but I couldn't help myself. You look gorgeous this morning. I am sure even the sun dims in comparison to your beauty."
Her eyelashes fluttered as she swooned at his words. "Oh James, my heart can't take all this flattery. You tease me so."
"Tease? Never, my love, unless you were referring to our exquisite lovemaking last night." James did not doubt that she would play along, not wanting to admit she couldn't recall anything about last night. "You haven't forgotten, have you?"
"Forgotten?" Marion pressed her ruby lips against his lips. "What woman could forget a night with such a handsome man. Your soft touch drives me wild."
"Ahh, you remember, my love." James took her hand and led her to the table. "Come, let's have breakfast before they need you on set."
"On set?" For a moment, Marion appeared confused, but in acting style, she recovered quickly, pressing her manicured nails against her lips. "Dear me, I'd forgotten. What's my role today, darling?"
"Scarlett, of course." James lifted her hand to his lips. "Aren't you eager to be with Rhett?"
Marion's eyes sparkled, and her smile was dazzling as she looked into James's eyes. "Frankly, darling, with you by my side, I don't give a damn."
James laughed. "Fair lady, I believe you stole my line."
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - a childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators |
By Begin Again
“Good morning, Garth. Come on in and have a seat.” Sheriff Ortiz shook the FBI agent’s hand and pointed to a chair across from his desk. “I’m sorry to bring you down to the station so early this morning, but I didn’t think this could wait.”
“No problem, Sheriff.” Garth lowered himself into the uncomfortable chair and stretched his legs till they touched the back of the desk. “Got you crammed in here a bit, don’t they?”
“Yeah, it’s only temporary until some remodeling gets done in my office. You and your team have been keeping me so busy, I’ve barely had time to notice the inadequacies of this office till now.”
“Guess we rounded up quite a few of the unsavory town residents, didn’t we?” Garth leaned forward, stretching the kinks out of his back. “Did your men uncover anything on last night’s shooting?”
“Not exactly, but I seriously believe what I have to say is related to last night.” The Sheriff ran his fingers through his thinning hair and frowned. “I got a call from the Savannah, Georgia police department this morning.”
“Savannah, Georgia? A bit out of your jurisdiction, isn’t it?” Garth watched a bug crawl across the floor and then looked at the Sheriff. “Is it about the video?”
“Indirectly. Sheriff Welcher knew nothing about the video, but he was trying to contact Allie.”
“If he didn’t know about the video, what did he want with Allie?”
The sheriff surveyed the top of his desk, took a swallow of his coffee before meeting Garth’s eyes. “He was following up on a female body discovered on St. Simon’s Island after a football beach party last night. Their investigation is in the initial stages, but they can’t rule out murder.” Ortiz stood and walked around to the front of his desk. His discomfort in reporting the likely death of Allie’s sister to Garth showed in the deep lines on his face.
“Murder? Was she shot?” Garth felt his throat tighten. “In the video, we saw Jaz and then heard a gunshot.”
The sheriff grimaced and then spoke, “As I said, they located the body only a few hours ago.”
Garth snarled, “Come on, Sheriff. It doesn’t take a forensic investigator to determine if a person has a bullet hole in them or not.” Unfamiliar emotions were ripping through his mind. People had briefed him on thousands of deaths, but this one involved Allie, and he could already feel her pain.
“I’m afraid it does when the body is tossed in a bonfire and doused with gasoline.” The sheriff frowned. “It’s a gruesome sight.”
“You gotta be kidding me.” A bug moved from under the Sheriff’s desk, and Garth squashed it with the toe of his boot. “What made the sheriff connect the death to Allie? Were they able to get fingerprints or any facial recognition?”
“He said Frat Night gets pretty wild. The clean-up crew discovered the body in a firepit. She’s burned beyond facial recognition, but forensics located personal items belonging to Jasmine Shelton in the vicinity. She could have stumbled and fallen into the fire, or someone could have dumped her body. No one’s come forward with any additional information.”
“Sounds like there wouldn’t have been any sober ones anyhow.” Garth pressed the heels of his hands against his legs. He was expecting the Sheriff’s subsequent remarks, and he didn’t want to hear them.
“They were hoping Allie might identify the body.” The sheriff’s shoulders heaved, and he sighed. “After last night, I thought if the information came from you, it might be easier.”
“Easier?” Garth heaved a deep sigh. “I appreciate your call, but no matter who Allie hears it from, it’s going to be devastating.” Garth pushed himself out of the uncomfortable chair. “Did they tell you what personal effects they found?”
“A beach bag with her driver’s license, an old newspaper clipping with an Allyssa Shelton byline, some movie stuff, a few business cards from people in the film industry. I think he said a few other things, but it was mighty early this morning, and I hadn’t had my first cup of coffee.”
“I’ll have the team get the full scoop from the sheriff’s department before we get there.” Garth was already focusing on the case and where his team would begin.
“Sheriff Welcher mentioned a partial tattoo on one of her legs. He hoped that might help with the identification.”
“It’s a start, I guess.” Garth extended his hand to Ortiz. “I appreciate you allowing me to break the news to Allie. We’ll leave as soon as we can get a flight.”
“Sorry, Garth. I wish I’d had better news.” Ortiz shook his head. “But in this line of business, bad news usually trumps the good.”
“Yeah, I know what you mean. Thanks again, Sheriff.” Garth stepped to the door. “Let me know if you get any leads on last night’s events, but I have a feeling it originated in Georgia. Somebody was sending a message, and now they’re going to answer to me.”
“Stay safe.” Ortiz shook his head as he watched Garth walk away. Ortis’s body language, drooping shoulders, and sour face spoke volumes. They’d become friends during the last few months, and he hated having to deliver such devastating news.
He returned to his desk chair, muttering, “Keep focused on the crime, my friend. Love makes you blind sometimes.”
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - a childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden Police Department Sheriff Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth |
By Begin Again
Allie felt the butterflies fluttering inside her stomach. Her warm smile and sparkling eyes sent a message to Garth as he approached her.
“Good morning. Out early this morning, are you? Trying to solve the crime without me?” Allie fist-bumped his arm. “That’s poor sportsmanship, you know. We’re a team.”
Garth forced a smile while his gut twisted and turned. “Not a chance, gorgeous. I didn’t think you would be up and about this early.”
“What? Do you take me for a slacker?” Allie scowled. “Besides, I overheard Tango saying you’d need all the help you can get. I’m ready to hit the payment.”
“That’s mighty nice of you, but I have a few things to take care of first.” Garth needed that coffee, and Allie wasn’t making things any easier for him.
“Tell me. I can help.” Allie prodded Garth. “Where’d you go so early this morning? Did you talk to Sheriff Ortiz? Is there any news about last night?”
“Girl, how can you have so much energy after last night? I’m exhausted, and a cup of coffee sounds like a perfect solution.”
“Coffee?” Allie tossed a devilish smile at Tango. “Did you hear that, Tango? Your boss needs coffee. He thinks he can stop my interrogation by sending me on an errand, but it’s not happening. Your mission is a pot of coffee, and mine is to get some answers.”
Dismissing Tango, Allie spun back around toward Garth, poking her finger into his chest. “For your information, cowboy, you can’t distract me so easily.”
Tango shifted his eyes from Allie and then to his boss. “It appears you are going to need that coffee. Be back in a sec.”
Garth shrugged, then nodded at the agent. “Yes, it does. And make it strong if you don’t mind.”
“Gotcha, boss.” Tango headed into the house for coffee and a shot of whiskey. Garth was going to need it.
As soon as Tango disappeared inside the house, Allie zeroed in on Garth. “What’s with all the evasiveness? After working on the last case with you, I thought we were past the secrets. I’m part of the team, right?” She moved closer, leaving little space between them. “You’re not thinking of squeezing me out because of someone’s stupid stunt last night? Because when I get a hold of my sister, she’s going to get a piece of my mind. Jaz and her acting friends must have gotten a big laugh out of their joke.”
Garth wrapped his arms around Allie and pulled her tight against his body. Her hair was damp from the shower, and she smelled like sweet lavender. He kissed the top of her head before releasing her. “Do you always smell so delicious in the morning?”
“I suppose, but don’t go off-topic, please. I want to know what you are trying so darn hard not to tell me. You know I won’t stop, so you might as well spill your guts.”
“Here’s your coffee, boss.” Tango had a tray with two mugs of coffee, a pint of Jack Daniels, cream and sugar, and several fresh pastries from the kitchen. He glanced at Garth and then set the tray on the table. “I’ve got a few things to do, so I’ll leave you two to hash it out. Poppa and I will be on the front porch if you need us.”
Allie watched Tango disappear around the corner of the house before turning back to Garth. “Okay, Tango’s as nervous as a cat on a hot tin roof. What the heck is going on?”
Garth took Allie’s hand and led her toward the two-seater lounge. “Make yourself comfortable, and I’ll bring the coffee over here.” He quickly retrieved the tray and set it on the table in front of the lounge chair. “How about the coffee first?” He picked up the bottle of Jack and poured a shot into his mug. “Would you like some too?”
“I’ll reserve my decision till after I discover what you don’t want to tell me, okay?” Allie laughed, “I’ve never seen you so nervous. Are you breaking up with me or something?”
Garth leaned over and kissed her, running his hand across her cheek. “The thought never crossed my mind, I assure you.”
“Then what’s going on with you? Did they find the shooter already? Is it someone I know? Though I can’t figure out how Jaz would know anyone in California to pull off her prank.”
Garth emptied his coffee mug and replaced it on the tray. He reached over and took both Allie’s hands, wrapping his own hands around them. “Sheriff Ortiz called me into the office this morning because he wanted to share some information with me.”
“About last night? I knew it. You don’t have to hold things back. Whoever it was, they deserve to get what’s coming to them. Jaz and her friends need to know things like that aren’t funny.”
Garth squeezed her hands and took a deep breath. “Allie, listen, okay? Your chattering isn’t making things any easier.”
“My chattering?” Allie tried to pull her hands away from him. “Excuse me, but I was trying to get a simple answer from you. If you’d tell me what’s going on, maybe I wouldn’t have to keep guessing.”
“Alright, I can’t find an easy way to tell you, and I’m sorry.” Garth tried to wrap his arms around her, but Allie moved away. “Allie, don’t be like that.” Garth looked like a lost schoolboy. His heart was breaking, and he had no idea how to proceed without destroying Allie.
“I don’t need to be coddled. Someone shot at us last night. I lived through it, and now you need to tell me what you know so we can move forward and close this case. Simple as that!” Allie snapped. “If it wasn’t Jaz, then who was it and why? What did Ortiz tell you?”
Garth sighed, “The Sheriff got a call from Savannah, Georgia, early this morning.”
“Savannah, Georgia? Is that where Jaz is? I know there are a lot of film studios in that area. Did she do something illegal?”
“Allie, I didn’t think this could be any more difficult than it is, but your continual questions are only adding to my struggle.”
“I’m sorry. I’ll be quiet so you can tell me what’s happening?” She pretended to zip her lips.
“Thank you.” Garth took a deep breath, exhaled, and held her hands. “Savannah called because they found a body on the beach this morning.”
“A body?” Allie bit her lip. “Was it a swimming accident?”
“No, they believe it was probably murder. The sheriff said—”
“A murder? What happened? Who is it?” Allie wailed, “Is it Jaz? Oh, my God, Garth, tell me they didn’t say it was my sister.”
“They discovered the female body after a wild college beach party. Police found Jaz’s personal effects in the area.”
“Then they should be able to compare her driver’s license picture with the body. If it doesn’t match, that will eliminate Jaz, right?” Allie’s breathing labored. “Can’t you call them and ask?” Her eyes registered terror as she waited for a simple confirmation.
He pulled Allie into his arms before answering, “We have to go there, Allie. They found the woman in the ashes of a bonfire.” Tears glistened in his eyes as he held Allie tighter. “Her face is burnt beyond recognition.” He swallowed the bile rising in his throat and struggled to remain calm.
Allie’s scream sounded like a wounded animal. “No—oo—oo!” Her flailing fists struck Garth’s head, arms, and chest. “It can’t be Jaz. It can’t be.” Her sobs racked her body, and all Garth could do was hold her.
“I’m sorry, love. I am so sorry.” He kissed her head and brushed his hand down her hair and her trembling back. “They need you to identify the body. We’ve got to go to Savannah. Do you think you can do that?”
He felt her head nod against his chest, but she could say nothing. For now, his arms wrapped around her were the only comfort he could offer. She needed to absorb the pain before she could even breathe again. At that moment, he knew how much he loved and wanted to protect the woman in his arms.
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - a childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth |
By Begin Again
As the jet’s landing gear touched down on the runway at the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, Garth whispered to Allie, “Time to wake up, my love. We’ve landed.”
His arm was numb from holding her the entire trip, but he hadn’t the heart to bring her back to reality until they touched the ground. Learning the possibility of her sister’s tragic death had broken her spirit, exposing a side of Allie he’d never seen. Her feistiness and quick wit disappeared, and all that remained was a broken shell resembling the woman he knew he loved.
Allie lifted her ravaged face to look at Garth. The grief in her eyes was more than he could bear. Knowing words wouldn’t heal those wounds, he hugged her and kissed her cheek, simply whispering, “Just lean on me, Allie.”
A line of cars waited on the tarmac, followed by a shiny blue Mercedes. Garth could see a few familiar faces through the small jet window, including Hank’s and Emmy’s. He was thankful that Emmy could be by Allie’s side today. Garth spotted a sheriff’s car parked a few feet away and assumed either Sheriff Welcher or someone from the department was there as well. He hadn’t expected a welcoming committee. He’d have preferred to remain off the radar until he had more information, especially if Allie’s life was at risk.
“Allie, please remain on the plane until I come back to get you. You need to keep a low profile until we know what’s going on.”
“I will not hide,” Allie snapped as she brushed a few strands of red hair from her face. Garth smiled because he saw a glimmer of his Allie sparking from her beautiful green eyes.
“No one asked you to hide, Allie. Let’s play it safe until we know more about what’s going on, okay?”
Allie took a deep breath and closed her eyes for a moment before staring directly at Garth. “If it was okay for me to take risks to save Cassidy’s life, it is more than okay for me to protect my sister and my life. I understand you want to be in control, but it’s my life.” She sighed, “I’m sure you can understand how shocked and scared I was; well, I still am, but now it’s time to uncover whoever is behind it. I can do it, Garth, with or without you at my side.”
“I know you can, but—” Garth reached for her hands.
“No, stop right there.” Allie could see fear in his eyes, something she’d never seen in him before now. “Garth, I know you want to protect me, but you can’t change who I am. I can do this; I have to do this for Jaz and—and for me, too.”
“Okay, as long as you think you can do it, I won’t stop you. Just promise we’ll work together. No secrets.” He bent down and kissed her lips. “Promise?”
Allie crossed her fingers as she murmured, “Promise.” Garth saw her hand tucked next to her leg and grimaced. Now he knew what to expect.
“Allie, this isn’t a game. These people are playing for keeps. How do I make you understand?”
*************
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - a childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth |
By Begin Again
James leaned against the railing on the East Wing balcony and watched as the sun rose above the treetops. His thoughts were on today’s filming. He heard the expected knock on his office door, but he waited for someone to call out to him.
“James. James, are you in here?” He recognized Cheryl’s voice; smiling, he remained at the railing. “Oh, James, there you are. I know it’s rather early to be bothering you, but I’ve got a problem.”
Turning to face the woman, he gasped, “Not with Marian, I hope.”
“Oh no, she’s still sleeping like a baby.” Cheryl stepped onto the balcony and gazed for a moment at the well-manicured lawn and gardens. “It’s quite beautiful, isn’t it?”
“Yes, it is.” He expected Cheryl to continue but she appeared enthralled with the sunrise, so clearing his throat, he added, “I believe you said you had a problem, Cheryl.”
“Oh—I’m sorry.” A slight pink crept across her cheeks as she tore herself away from the glorious view. “Yes, yes, I do. I tried to give your little darling in the Red Room a wake-up call, but she’s not responding.”
“Did you check if she’s breathing?” James knew she was, but he enjoyed playing this game. “She’s not dead, is she?”
“Dead?” Cheryl gulped, and her eyes widened. “You don’t think—”
With impeccable thought-out timing, Charles entered the office as Cheryl slumped into the chair. “Hey, boss, I just dropped off today’s lines to the girl in the Red Room—” Stopping mid-sentence, the butler rushed to Cheryl’s side. “What’s wrong? You look like you are about to faint.”
Cheryl lifted her terrified eyes to look at Charles. “You were in the Red Room? Is the girl—is she alive?”
“Alive? Of course, she’s alive.” Charles glanced at James before he continued, “Sleeping Beauty swallowed an extra melatonin or two, I think.”
“Melatonin? Why would she do that? She knows she’s filming today, right?”
“It might be my fault. The girl was having difficulty sleeping last night, and I offered her the sleep aid. Except for two pills, the bottle was empty. I assume I accidentally left it there.” Charles scowled and turned to James. “I’m sorry, boss. Do you want me to cancel the shoot?”
James kicked the lounge chair he was standing beside and then turned his back on the duo. “Our production schedule is already behind. How could you have been so stupid, Charles? Maybe I should take the money out of your paycheck or, better yet, fire you for your incompetence.”
Charles wailed, “Fire me? Please, sir, I’m sure we can do something.”
“Of course we can.” Feeling sorry for the butler, Cheryl added, “Can’t we use another actress?”
James spun around, allowing anger to flood his face. “And how do you suppose we make the new actress look like our current beauty? And where do we get someone on such short notice?”
“Lady Marian. She practices the lines as if she was starring in the role.”
“Lady Marian?” James scowled and then turned away in deep thought. “Yes, I’ve heard her, and yesterday, she performed the scene for me. It surprised me by how well she did.” James grimaced. “But she doesn’t look like our girl.”
“How about using a makeup specialist? They can make Lady Marian look exactly like the girl.” Cheryl smiled, pleased with her suggestion.
“I think you might have something there, Cheryl.” James laughed. “Charles, I believe she’s saved your job.”
Charles grabbed Cheryl, lifted her from the chair, and hugged her. “Thank you.”
Flustered by Charles’ reaction, Cheryl stammered, “You—rrr wel—come.”
Charles’ eyes darted toward James. “Maybe we should ask Lady Marian before we get too excited.”
“Oh, she’ll jump at the chance.” Cheryl edged away from Charles in case he might hug her again. “You know how much she loves to act.”
“Great idea, Cheryl. Hurry and ask Marian.” James stared at Charles. “Please shut the door. I want a word with you before you go.”
Cheryl tossed a sympathetic glance at Charles and hurried out of the room, pulling the door behind her.
For a moment, it was eerily silent on the balcony. James looked sternly at Charles, and then the two men bent over, squeezing their sides in uncontrollable laughter.
Gasping for air, James finally spoke. “You should have been in Hollywood, my friend. It was perfect!”
“Thanks.” Beaming with pride, Charles patted his shoulder. “Neither woman will ever realize it was our idea, not theirs. You sure know how to cover your tracks.”
“You sure can act! I almost believed you myself.” James grinned. “It’s fun leading the sheep to the slaughter, isn’t it?” He sighed, adding, “One step toward the grand finale. I haven’t decided on the grand finale yet, but I know it will be spectacular.”
“It’s quite the stage production just to pay back a young woman for her mistake, but—”
James spat his words. “She accepted someone else’s words and confidently wrote them in the newspaper article. I spent eight years in prison because of it. Lack of evidence didn’t matter to the jury. They believed what she wrote.”
“What about all the other crimes, though? Maybe your past swayed the jury more than her article.”
“It doesn’t matter. Miss Shelton needs to be knocked down a peg or two. Hob-nobbing with the FBI and thinking she’s a crime investigator. I intend to see how smart she really is.” James grinned a big toothy smile. “Destroying her as she watches her sister suffer is going to be the crowning jewel.”
“My source tells me she’s been to the morgue. She knows that the body isn’t her sister.”
“Great! I’m sure the tattoo gave it away.” James walked into the office. “How about some coffee before we get to work? It’s going to be quite a busy day.”
*******************
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - a childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth |
By Begin Again
From their first meeting at the airport, Garth had a bad vibe from Sheriff Welcher, but this early morning standoff in the Sheriff’s office was beyond irritating.
A defiant Sheriff Welcher snarled, “I’ve got better things to do than stand here and argue with you.” He shuffled through some papers on his desk, dismissing any further conversation with Garth. “I believe you know your way out.”
Garth fought to control his anger, but he had more to say, even if the Sheriff didn’t want to hear it. “Listen, Sheriff—”
“No, you listen, Woodman, this is my town and my department. The woman isn’t the one you’re looking for, so I believe your part, in this case, is closed.”
“Don’t you think it is suspicious that your men found Jaz’s effects at the scene, especially since the woman isn’t Jaz?”
“There were a lot of people on that beach. Maybe she dropped them when she was running after the explosion?” The Sheriff shrugged and continued to read some papers on his desk.
“Someone wanted us to believe the woman was Jaz. Why? Aren’t you even a little curious?”
“Pretty elaborate for a hoax, don’t you think?” Welcher raised his eyes from the papers and smirked. “It’s not Hollywood, after all.”
“I’m not saying it’s a hoax. We don’t have enough information either way. Someone sent Allie a video involving her sister being shot, and then your department discovered Jaz’s things by the body. To me, that’s more than a coincidence.”
“Listen, Woodman; it looks like a tragic accident on the beach to me. Our forensic team will do their best to identify the remains, but we know it’s not Jasmine Shelton.”
“Was the woman shot? What happened?” Garth shook his head. “Is that how you close cases down here?”
“I don’t know how they run things in Washington D.C., but I don’t need you to tell me how to run my department. Initial reports indicate our victim was intoxicated and most likely stumbled and fell into the bonfire. Reports say there was an explosion of cans, whipping cream cans, I believe. Someone probably startled her; she lost her balance and fell. It’s unfortunate, but it’s not a crime.”
Garth snarled, “You aren’t even going to consider foul play?”
“There’s no need. It’s an annual frat party that gives the residents of St. Simon Island a great deal of money. Revenue they count on to get them through till next spring. The last thing they want is adverse publicity. The story of a tragic accident will blow over, but murder will not.”
“What about the girl? Doesn’t she deserve a proper investigation?” Garth wanted to grab the man by his shirt collar and shake him.
“Which is what we gave her.” The Sheriff glared across his desk at Garth. “Go back from where you came from and leave our town alone.”
Before Garth could explode, the telephone on Welcher’s desk rang. Turning his back on Garth, the Sheriff answered the phone. “Sheriff Welcher.”
He listened to the person on the other end and then hung up the phone. He stared out the window, not turning to look at Garth. The clock on the shelf sounded like a ticking time bomb.
“Well, Sheriff, I’m sorry my team and I have taken up your time. We’ll be hanging around town for a few days. Maybe we can locate the missing Shelton sister. If any information comes your way, I would appreciate it if your department could let us know.”
When the Sheriff didn’t turn around, Garth opened the office door to leave. “Give my condolences to the family, or don’t they do that around here either?”
Welcher turned and glared at Garth. Sparks shot from his eyes as he pressed his lips together like a vise. He looked past Garth into the outer office and then spoke, “That was forensics on the phone. They found a bullet wound.” The Sheriff hesitated and reluctantly added, “Guess we’ve got a murder.”
Controlling his ‘I told you so smirk,’ Garth nodded. “Good luck on your case, Sheriff. I’ve got a missing girl to find.” He pulled the door closed and walked out of the department.
“Lesson 101. You’re only as good as the evidence you collect, Welcher.”
***********
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - a childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth |
By Begin Again
A massive iron archway across the thoroughfare welcomed tourists to Patron Square. Small, quaint shops mixed with restaurants lined both sides of the street. Tourists strolled the walkway, window-shopping, relishing their ornate finds, and enjoying the gorgeous fall weather. On a typical day, the shops would have drawn Emmy like a magnet.
As she waited for Hank, her eyes shifted from the activity down the street to the elaborate store signs and then back to the flashing lights. A few stores caught her attention, and she made a mental note to make a return visit.
Hank dropped several quarters in the meter before joining Emmy. Trays of tempting pastries in the bakery shop window and a massive wedding cake display slowed his progress for a moment or two.
“Wipe the drool from your chin, sweetie.” Emmy slipped her arm through his arm and playfully tugged it. “The crime scene is this way.”
“Are you sure? It seems to me, ignoring those sweet edibles would be a major crime. They are calling my name.”
“Death by chocolate?” Emmy laughed at her husband. “Though, that French cruller with the raspberry filling looks very tempting.”
“This isn’t exactly the crime scene I expected.” Garth’s voice startled the couple as he walked up behind them.
Surprised, they both turned to face Garth. Hank recovered first. “Perfect timing, my friend. Emmy was losing her battle with the pastry shop.”
Emmy’s eyebrow raised as she smirked at Hank. “Two more seconds, and Hank would have been buying out the store.”
Tango dodged a few cars as he zig-zagged across the street and joined the group. “Found a parking space about three blocks away. Quite a busy part of town.”
“Well, we aren’t sightseeing, so let’s go see what Sheriff Welcher’s crew might be willing to share.”
“With all this traffic, how'd you get here so fast? Tango practicing his California driving again?” Emmy nudged her elbow into the agent’s ribs.
“Nah, we were canvassing an area a few blocks away. Poppa said he’d been told lots of people in the film industry hang out in the area.” Tango’s eyes widened as three young women in mini skirts strolled past their group. “I might volunteer to interview all of them if they look like those three.”
“Put your eyes back in your head. We’ve got some investigating to do. You guys mingle with the crowd; see if you can learn anything. I’ll go find Sheriff Welcher.” Garth grimaced, “I’m sure he’ll be thrilled to see me at another crime scene.”
**************
Crossing the crime tape was more accessible than Garth expected. The young officer working the crowd recognized him from the airport and waved. Garth flashed his badge and introduced himself, and crossed the line without being challenged. The officer pointed down the alley and told him he’d find the Sheriff in that direction.
Garth nodded and smiled as he moved through the officers and their vehicles. Red and blue lights reflected in the store windows and lit the area like Christmas. As he passed by the officers and plain-clothes detectives, his ears tuned into their conversations.
“Guess she’s a wanna-be. Forensics found a movie script lying on the ground near her body.”
“Don’t imagine she thought her starring role would be a murder victim.”
“She was stabbed. Probably in the wrong place at the wrong time.”
A white sheet covered the victim’s body. Garth spotted her red hair, and his throat tightened. Thoughts of Jaz flashed through his mind as he approached Welcher.
“Hello again, Sheriff.”
Welcher’s conversation with the coroner abruptly stopped when he heard Garth’s voice. “Give me a second, Harold. It appears the FBI has arrived at the scene.” The sheriff turned and stared at Garth for a moment before speaking, “Mind telling me how you learned about the murder so fast. Are you monitoring our radios?”
“Nothing so underhanded, Sheriff. My team and I were canvassing the area for information on Jaz. We just stumbled onto your crime scene. All the flashing lights and sirens were a dead giveaway. Excuse the pun.”
“The victim might put a damper on your humor.”
“How’s that? Have you identified her?” Garth stared at the body. He waited for the Sheriff’s reply.
“Not exactly. Though she was wearing a locket that might interest you.” He opened his hand, exposing a gold heart-shaped necklace. “It’s engraved.”
Garth glanced at the necklace and then at Welcher. “You seem to be enjoying the suspense. Either tell me about the crime, the engraving, or anything, or I’ll question the forensics myself.”
“It might be a coincidence; one never knows.” The Sheriff shrugged his shoulders. “It’s not a common name around here.”
Garth’s dark eyes were smoldering as he closed the space between Welcher and himself. “The name.”
Welcher snapped, “You don’t have to get so testy,” but he moved a step back. He handed the locket to Garth. “See for yourself.”
Garth opened the locket and saw the engraving “Jaz.” His throat tightened, but he refused to let Welcher get under his skin. He closed the locket and handed it back to the sheriff. “Can I see the body?”
“Don’t see why not.” Welcher called out to one of his officers, “Tom, our FBI friend would like to see the victim. Would you uncover the body?”
“Sure thing.” The officer stood between Garth and the body and lifted the sheet, blocking the view. Garth moved closer and examined the victim. A ripple of relief washed over him, but he gave no visible signs.
“Recognize her?” Welcher held a small purse, some folded twenties, a credit card, and a business card for a restaurant. “I’m guessing this is the credit card used at Haley’s Diner early this morning.”
Garth reached for the business card. “May I?”
“Yeah, sure. It looks like it’s for one of those Italian places over a few blocks. They hand them out left and right around here.”
“She looks like a working girl. Maybe—”
“This ain’t no red-light section of town. It’s all upscale around here.” Welcher shook his head. “What reason would a hooker have in this area? You think she’s working out of one of these boutiques?”
“My mistake, Sheriff. I wasn’t clear, I guess. I was referring to someone who might work in an office or as a hostess in a nice restaurant. She’s not dressed to attract men, and her nails are perfectly manicured.”
“Yeah, yeah, I saw that. Guess I got distracted by the blood and all those knife wounds. Probably a robbery went wrong.”
“You think it was a robbery? Hmm—the perp left the money, credit card, and the locket. Wonder what he took?”
The sheriff tossed his coffee cup in the trash. The contents splashed against the rim of the bin, barely missing Garth. “I don’t have time to stand around chit-chatting. I need to work this investigation, so if you don’t mind, I’ve got work to do.” Without another word, the sheriff walked away from Garth and started giving orders to his officers to search the area. “We’re looking for the knife. The perp might have tossed it.”
Garth saw Hank and Tango standing near the crime tape, so he headed in their direction. Emmy was standing with a group of women, smiling and laughing. She waved goodbye to the ladies and rejoined the group.
“Tell us it’s not Jaz.” Hank asked the dreaded question that all of them were wondering.
“It’s not Jaz. Though someone went to a lot of effort to make us think it was her.” Garth looked around at the shops. “Let’s go see if that pastry shop serves coffee. We can fill each other in while Hank gets his fill of everything in the store.”
“Sounds good to me.” Hank reached for Emmy’s hand. “You got enough money with you, darling. I’m mighty hungry.”
“Hank Armato, you are only getting two pastries, you hear me.” Emmy tugged on Hank’s sleeve, then looked at Garth. “The ladies are mighty friendly around here. When they learned the FBI was on the scene, they couldn’t wait to share some interesting information concerning their Sheriff.”
“Really?” Tango leaned closer to Emmy. “Was it something juicy?”
“Not exactly, but I’m sure you’ll find it quite interesting.” Emmy slipped her arm through Hanks. “I’ll fill you in over coffee; besides, if my darling husband doesn’t fill his mouth with a pastry soon, he might be too famished to walk there.” Emmy laughed and weaved her way through the crowd, with Hank following close behind.
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - a childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth |
By Begin Again
“Oh, it smells heavenly.” Emmy stopped outside the bakery shop and inhaled. “They’re baking bread. Hank, we must buy a few loaves for everyone at the house.”
Tango inhaled and then laughed. “Do you think a bakery shop has pastrami? I could eat one right now.”
Hank opened the door, and the aroma of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies greeted them. A young girl dressed in a pink and white uniform, holding a tray of cookies, smiled and offered them a sample.
“Don’t have to ask me twice.” Hank picked the biggest one from the tray and bit off half of the cookie. The gooey, melted chocolate clung to the corner of his mouth. “Emmy, we need at least two dozen of these.” He finished the cookie with a dreamy look in his eyes. “Maybe we should get more than two dozen so the others can have some too.”
“Look at this display case, Hank. Everything looks scrumptious. They’ve got a crazy selection.” Emmy surveyed the countless pastries and cakes.
Hank scowled and attempted to read the stickers on the case, “Chou—quettes. Tarte Bour—da--loue.” Hank continued to slaughter the French words. “Mille—feuille. Beign—ets. Pro—fi—”
“Profiterole. It’s a chocolate-covered pastry filled with freshly whipped cream or vanilla custard. It’s like our cream puffs but with a lighter, buttery flavor.” Emmy laughed as her husband drooled over each tray of pastries. “You don’t even know what they are, Hank.”
“Doesn’t matter. They look and smell delicious. We need some of everything.”
“I don’t think so, my love, unless you plan on buying a larger size of dress pants. Ones with an expandable waist, maybe?” Hank made a face at his wife.
“I don’t know about you two, but I’m finding a table.” Garth pointed at the sign on the wall. “And I’m ordering a sample plate.” A picture of a sixteen-inch platter piled with various pastries, cookies, and cakes hung on the wall directly above the order here sign.
Hank couldn’t contain his excitement. “Quick, a table for four, and we’ll each take one of those sample things.”
“Each, sir? That’s quite a lot of pastries. Would you like me to put some in a box?” The young girl glanced at all of them, but when no one confirmed the box idea, she smiled. “Follow me. There’s a table right over here.”
As they chose their chairs, Garth whispered to the hostess, “We’ll probably need those boxes, but coffee and a tray would be great to start.”
“Yes, sir. Bon appétit.” She hurried away to place their order and to send someone with coffee.
With the first tray of pastries, the young man brought four small espresso shots and a pitcher of cream. “Good afternoon, monsieur and mademoiselle. Please, enjoy a cup of un café. I brought a pitcher of steamed milk. Not everyone likes the strong, black flavor of French coffee.”
“Do you serve café Americana, s'il vous plaît? The men are used to mugs of coffee.” Emmy looked as the men rolled their eyes and arched their brows at the tiny shot glass in front of them.
The server chuckled. “Of course, we usually want to give you a sense of dining in Paris while you enjoy the pastries. Mugs of coffee coming right up.” He hurried away and returned with four mugs of steamy coffee.
“Much better. Merci beaucoup.” Garth and Tango rolled their eyes at Hank’s French. “What? I can speak the language. I have manners.”
Emmy coughed into her napkin and mumbled, “You’ve just used your full extent of the French language. A thank you very much is all you've got.”
“Not so! I understand bon appétit.” Hank couldn’t control his laugh.
“Of course you do. Anything to do with your appetite.” Emmy chose a small pastry from the tray. “Better get one, guys, before Hank picks and chooses. I guarantee he’ll forget he’s sharing with any of us.”
They each chose a dessert, oohing and aahing with each bite.
“So, boss, did you learn anything from the crime scene? Was it just a random stabbing, or did the girl have anything to do with our case?” Tango had heard about the locket from an officer, but he waited for Garth to share the details.
“Welcher tried to play it off as a simple stabbing, but they found a small clutch with a credit card belonging to Jaz, and she was wearing an engraved heart locket with Jaz’s name.”
“Looks like someone is going to the extreme to make us believe each murder is Allie’s sister. What do they expect to gain?”
“I’m guessing it’s a game to whoever is doing this. Someone leaves a clue to our next move each time.”
“So, what’s the clue this time? Was the locket unusual so we could track it?” Tango guessed the locket needed to be expensive to track it.
“No, it’s a cheap piece of jewelry. I think the clue was a business card in the purse.”
“A business card? Like they left us a calling card? Who’s it for?”
“Not a who, but a place. It’s for an upscale Italian restaurant. Located only a few blocks away from here. The name is Francine’s Ristorante.”
Tango’s eyes met Garth’s. “Wow, almost the same as Francesco’s where someone shot at you and Allie.”
“Exactly. Quite a coincidence, I would say.” Garth nodded. “I think we need to check it out, but first, I want to hear what Emmy has to share with us on Welcher.”
Emmy smiled, dabbed at her lips with the napkin, and took a swallow of coffee. Clearing her throat, she began, “I would never have guessed that Welcher was born into a very prominent family, and his father took careful steps to groom him for a political office.”
“Welcher? In politics? The guy has no finesse. I can’t imagine him kissing babies and hugging everyone’s favorite grandma.” Hank shook his head in disbelief.
“Neither could the ladies who shared their stories with me.” Emmy laughed. “He had the looks, the muscle, the money, but he couldn’t leave the women alone. One woman even said she’d heard Welcher had a bit of a fetish for some rough sex with the girls. Of course, it was all rumor, but enough to put a gray cloud over his future as a senator or the governor.”
“So, how did he end up in law enforcement?” Hank asked. “Did daddy’s money get him the job?”
“Betty Jo said her husband was at a poker game, and a few guys were joking about Welcher applying for a job with the Federal Bureau of Investigation.”
“You gotta be kidding me. Welcher was in the FBI?” Tango almost choked on the words.
“He was going through the process, but got caught in a raid one night. A reporter plastered Welcher’s pretty face across the front page, along with a few scantily clad young ladies. Since it happened in Washington D.C., the reporters and politicians had a field day, mocking the bureau about their recruits.”
Garth thought for a minute and asked, “Did they say how long ago this was?”
“Betty Jo thought it was about the time she had Lily, her second child. She said it was about nine or ten years ago. Welcher came back to Savannah and became the rich playboy around town.”
“Another woman said an old boyfriend told her there’d been a big fallout between old man Welcher and his son. Daddy got him set up as the Sheriff and then disowned him. Nobody knows what happened. They all agreed the sheriff became a bitter man.”
“Explains a lot. Maybe the Director can dig a little deeper on the guy. In the meantime, we’ll be careful what we share with him.” Garth finished his coffee. “Tango and I are going to pay a brief visit to Francine’s restaurant. I’ll pay the tab, and Hank, if you don’t mind, maybe you and Emmy can swing by and check on Allie.”
“Sure thing.” Hank ran his hand across his stomach. “Don’t think I could do justice to pasta right now, anyway.”
Everyone laughed, and Garth and Tango headed to the cashier.
| Author Notes | A member of the crime team is drawn into a diabolical scheme by an ex-con, Vito Moretti, who spent eight years in prison for a crime he didn't commit. Upon his release, he set out to get revenge. |
By Begin Again
Garth parked the car in a municipal lot, and the two men stood looking up and down the street. It was early in the day, so the area wasn't as crowded as the street where the pastry shop was located.. Double parked trucks and smaller vans were blocking alleys. Uniformed men and women with two-wheeled carts balanced stacks of boxes as they delivered their product.
"According to the business card, this Francine place should be in the next block."
"Yeah, that semi is blocking part of the sign, but I think I see it on the other side of the street." A Sysco Food Truck was unloading supplies, and the letters Franc was all that was showing. "Something about this place gives me a chill. Seems like another clue."
"Even the outside of the building looks similar to Francesco's, like kissing cousins." Tango laughed at his observation and then frowned, "or maybe sisters."
"Come on, Tango. Let's go see if we can learn anything."
As they entered the restaurant, both men stopped, took in the decor, and then looked at each other. From the outside, the building gave the impression it was a small, intimate setting where a business group or a family might grab a family-style pizza or a plate of pasta. Inside, it was much more opulent. The building was far longer than it was wide, with two separate rooms, the main dining room, and an intimate, secluded room for couples complete with a fountain and a fireplace, almost a replica from Napa Valley's Francesco's.
As they gazed around the restaurant, a young woman dressed in black pants, a black silk blouse, and a red bib apron approached them. Her smile and sparkling eyes were welcoming.
"I'm sorry, gentlemen, but we aren't open for lunch until eleven o'clock, though you can enjoy refreshments at the bar."
Garth returned her smile and flashed his badge. Her eyes widened as she read the FBI logo. "I'm Garth Woodman, and this is Tango. We were wondering if we could ask a few questions?"
"Questions? About what?" She turned her head toward the kitchen area and then back to Garth. "If you need the owner, she's busy with the deliveries. I could take your card and have her call you."
"That's unnecessary. I'm sure you can probably help us."
Her smile returned. "My name is Seline. I'd be happy to assist if I can, but I can't imagine what I might know that would help the FBI."
"We're investigating the possibility of a woman's murder and were curious if there had been any shootings in the area."
"Shootings! Oh heavens, and a murder. That would have been the major topic of conversation of everyone if it had occurred anywhere around here."
"Nothing out of the ordinary? Extra police in the area? Or some other strange activity?" Garth tried to prod her memory.
"I don't know if this would count as strange, but a guy rented the entire restaurant so he could film a movie scene. He did it after-hours, so we weren't even around to see it."
"Wow, a movie. That had to be interesting. Did you get to meet any of the actresses or crew?" The mention of a movie struck a nerve with Tango and Garth. "Mind if I ask around to see if anyone else remembers anything?" Tango glanced around the room.
"We were closing when the crew arrived, so only myself, Thomas, and Mary Beth were around. The director tipped the entire staff and told them they could leave early. Everyone flew out of the restaurant."
"Are Thomas and Mary Beth working today? I could ask them a few questions while Garth talks to you."
"That's Thomas folding napkins over there by the register." Selene pointed in Thomas's direction. "I'm afraid you can't talk to Mary Beth because she hasn't been here since that night. They hired her to play the part of a server, but then decided not to use her. I guess he felt bad, so he offered her another job. She left a note pinned to her timecard, apologizing for not giving notice, but this might be her big chance."
"Didn't that seem strange?"
"Not really. Most of these young girls are hoping to get a job in the movies. They leave, and then in a few weeks when things don't work out, they come back looking for a job."
"Could I get her address?"
"She'd lost her apartment recently. That's why she jumped at the movie job. The director dude told her he could provide her with an apartment."
"Do you remember anything else about that night? And would you have a phone number or emergency contact for Mary Beth?"
"Sure, I'll get it from the office. Be right back." As she hurried away, Garth could see Tango talking to the young man. He decided Tango could handle the conversation, so he roamed around the room set aside for intimate dinners. As he approached the table by the window, an icy chill crawled across his shoulders, and a flashback of him lying on the floor with Allie in his arms caught him off-guard. He pulled out a chair and sat, reliving the scene.
"Excuse me, got a second?"
Thomas lifted his head from his task of rolling silverware and folding napkins. "You can have longer if it means I can stop rolling these things."
Tango laughed. "Sure thing. Let's take a break and sit for a minute."
After taking a seat on two bar stools, Tango introduced himself, "My name is Tango, and I'm with the FBI." Thomas's droopy eyes opened wide. "The young lady over there said you might help me."
"Me? I'm just a busboy. I doubt I can help the FBI."
"I'm told you were working the night a film crew rented the restaurant?"
"Yeah, but they didn't allow Selene or me out front."
"Did you see or hear anything from the crew?"
"Not from the crew, but I found a few interesting items in the dumpster."
"What was that?"
"When I dumped the trash in the dumpster, it was dark and all I could see was some red hair sticking out from beneath the first bag I had tossed in there. I ran inside and got a flashlight." Thomas laughed. "Man, I felt like an idiot when I saw it was a wig. I saw a movie script lying there too."
"A wig? I probably would have gotten creeped out too. What did it look like?"
"Beautiful red hair, long and wavy like one of those movie actresses." Thomas thought for a moment, then added, "The woman acts with John Wayne. I just finished watching the Rio Grande. She's one hot chick."
"Maureen O'Hara."
"Yeah, she's the one. I've got the wig and the script in my locker if you want to see it.
"That would be great. Do you know what the script was about?"
"Sure do. I read the whole thing. It was scary. Not Halloween scary, just evil. I was worried about the little girl."
"Little girl? What happened?"
"They kidnapped her. Her name was Annie, and she had a St. Bernard named Sebastian. I remember because I had one when I was about five or six."
Tango pressed his lips together, absorbing what Thomas had said.
A script about Annie and Sebastian. This couldn't be just a coincidence that the script actually happened in Napa Valley, and their team worked the case, could it?
"Can you get those things for me? I'd like to take a look."
"Sure thing, but you're not going to take them, are you? I'd like to keep them if possible."
"Tell you what; you let me borrow them, and I'll make sure you get them back. Deal?"
"Deal." Thomas hopped off the stool, shook hands with Tango, and added, "Maybe I could get something from the FBI too." The young man's smile was hopeful.
"I promise I can do that for you, too." Tango extended his hand and they shook to seal the deal.
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - a childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur |
By Begin Again
Thomas returned with the wig and script, grinning from ear to ear. Tango extended his hand, and after a slight hesitation, the young man handed over his precious treasures to the FBI.
“Let’s go join my boss. I think he’ll be interested in your find.” Tango laughed. “He outranks me, so maybe you can con him for something better.”
“Cool! You think he’d part with his badge?”
“I wouldn’t shoot that high, but I’m sure he’ll come up with something good.” Tango dropped his voice an octave and whispered, “Bet we could get him to make you an honorary agent, especially when he sees the clues you found.”
Thomas straightened his posture, brushed off his apron, and smiled. “Let’s go, Agent Tango. We’ve got work to do.”
Tango couldn’t conceal his chuckle as he followed the proud young man toward Garth and Selene.
“What you got there?” The red wig caught Garth's attention.
Tango handed the wig and script to Garth. “Thomas was quite observant the night the filming took place. He found this wig and a movie script in the dumpster.”
Garth read the character list and raised his eyes to Tango. “Did you see this?”
“Sure did, boss. I told Thomas you might reward him with an honorary agent certificate for doing such good work.”
“Awesome work, Agent Thomas.” Garth shook the young man’s hand. “We need more men like you.”
Thomas looked at Selene, making sure she’d heard what they’d said about him. His chest puffed out with pride.
“Do either of you know this director guy? Or maybe you have a credit card receipt for the rental?”
Selene answered first, “He had a carrier deliver the money. He paid the $5000 in cash. I never got to talk to him.”
“I was dying to get a closer look at the set. Didn’t think it was fair that Mary Beth got to be in the movie.” Thomas scowled and then smiled. “I went outside with my binoculars and stood in the doorway across the street. It was cool until a guy with a badge came and told me to move on.”
“A police officer?” Garth raised an eyebrow
“To tell you the truth, I was so busy trying to keep my binoculars hidden, just in case he tried to confiscate them, I didn’t get a good look at him. I’m sure he wasn’t wearing the usual brown uniform like the cops wear. I think it was blue, but I’m not sure of that.”
“Did you see anything or anyone on the set?”
“Yeah, a girl sitting at the table. And a man was talking to her. I only got a minute or two before the guy with the badge chased me off.”
Garth pulled a picture of Jaz from his pocket. “Could this be the girl?”
“Could have been, but she’s got straight hair, not wavy like the wig.”
Selene leaned over and looked at the picture. “I didn’t see her that night, but I believe she was at Caleb’s a few weeks ago.”
“Who’s Caleb? Got a last name?”
“I don’t know his last name, but Caleb throws a dance party every other Wednesday night in this warehouse over on Market Street. He calls it the place to be discovered because every agent in town, every starlet, and everyone who’s anyone, is hanging out, trying to make connections.”
“Your friend, Kay, might be able to help them. She’s the club hostess and decides if you get in or not.” Thomas looked for confirmation from Selene.
Garth could see Selene was hesitant, so he broke the ice. “Can you connect me with Kay or Caleb?”
Selene wrinkled her nose. “I don’t know about that. Caleb runs a tight ship and doesn’t like cops hanging around. I’m sure there’s more than dancing going on, but I know nothing specific.”
“I understand. Maybe you can give me an address, and we can go from there. No one will know where we got our information.”
“Thanks. I appreciate it.” Selene paused and then added, “If this is the girl I saw at the club, she was partying on the edge that night. The group’s tab had lots of champagne and caviar. Kay told me that one guy had promised the redhead a starring role in his movie. I admit I was jealous.”
Not to be left out of the conversation, Thomas spoke up again. “I just remembered before the badge grabbed me, I had zoomed in on this guy’s hand. He had an awesome ring. It was gold with a black serpent head with a yellow eye. Like topaz or something.”
“I saw that ring too, but it wasn’t the night of the filming. A distinguished-looking man came into the restaurant a few nights ago and sat at the bar. I needed a glass of Perrier, and I remember commenting on the ring. I thought it was strange that he didn’t even say thank you. Instead, he asked me to take a glass of wine, and a single rose to a beautiful woman sitting alone by the window. A few minutes later, I noticed he had joined her.”
“Did they stay long?”
“He didn’t because she waved to another man standing near the entrance, and he came over to her table. Three’s a crowd because the first guy vanished.”
Garth reached in his pocket, pulled out two business cards, and handed them to Selene and Thomas. “Here’s my card. If you think of anything else or the guy stops by again, please call me.”
Tango shook Thomas’s hand and nodded to Selene, “You have been a great help. We appreciate it very much.’ Turning to Thomas, he added, “I’ll take real good care of the wig and the script. A deal’s a deal.”
They exchanged goodbyes and generous thank-yous and then headed back out onto the street. Garth stopped outside the window and looked back inside. “That business card was no accident. This guy wanted us to come here.”
“It sure resembles Francesco's, but we saw that in the video. I think he figured someone might discover the wig and the script, but I doubt he knows how smart these young kids are.”
“Thomas with his binoculars, honing in on the ring and Selene remembering the ring on another visit. Exceptional information.” Garth started walking toward the car. “Come on, Tango. We’ve got a lot of work to do. First, I want you to set up a twenty-four-hour detail on both kids. It’s possible if this guy thinks one of them might know something, he won’t hesitate to harm them.”
“I’ll get the team working on this Caleb guy and see what information they can dig up. It sounds like Jaz was hanging out there, but I’m not so sure about the restaurant.”
“Me either. I think our guy used a stand-in actress and then tossed her body in the bonfire, making us believe it was Jaz. My guess is today’s body is Mary Beth Jacobs. Our director felt she was a danger to him, or maybe it was always his plan to use her as a pawn.”
“This guy is sick.” Tango shook his head. “You know Allie isn’t safe until we get this creep. I can’t imagine what she could have done, but it sure made him crazy.”
“Let’s dig a little deeper into Sheriff Welcher, too. When Thomas said a badge chased him off, I felt a shiver run down my spine. I don’t trust that guy.”
“I agree. How about we go check on Allie and see if Hank left us any of those pastries? We need to gather everyone together and fill them in. If everyone does their job, maybe we might get a little closer to this guy.”
“Thanks to two young people, we might have gotten a break.” Garth sighed and looked back down the street toward Francine’s. “Maybe we should train Thomas to be an agent. He sure did a better job than any of us so far.”
They climbed inside the car and then headed back to the rental. Both men were quiet as they rolled their recent discoveries around in their heads.
Garth broke the silence as he parked in front of the rental. “Remind me to notify Sheriff Welcher his victim might be Mary Beth Jacobs. I’m sure he’ll love hearing it from me.”
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - a childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur |
By Begin Again
Carrington Manor And Film Studio
Charles tapped on the study door. “James, are you expecting anyone?”
“You know I don’t bring people to the mansion unless—”
“Our charming guest says her name is Samantha Withers. She’s quite beautiful. She says she met you the other evening at Francine’s. Gave me her business card. It says she is the owner of Seeking Arrangements.” Charles raised a quizzical eyebrow and added, “In smaller print, it reads In Millionaire Style.”
Smiling, James strummed his pen against the desk for a moment, rolled his eyes upward as if he was studying the ceiling, and then responded, “If she went to the trouble to track me down, I guess we should give her a moment or two. Show her in.”
James straightened the papers on his desk and opened his button-downed shirt collar. A smile crossed his face as he remembered their first encounter at Francine’s. “Don’t keep the lady waiting, Charles.”
“Yes, sir.” Charles left the study and returned to the foyer to discover their visitor missing. Panic set in when he couldn’t find her outside, nor was she in the library or sitting room. Just as he was about to tell James, Miss Withers strolled in through the veranda doors.
“I couldn’t resist the aroma coming from the garden. I had to check it out.” Charles’s anger melted when she smiled at him. “I hope I didn’t upset you.”
“No, no, of course not. The gardens are beautiful, and I’m sure it will thrill James to know how much you loved seeing them.”
“First, I arrive unannounced, and then I wander into your private gardens without asking. I must apologize for my rudeness.” Samantha reached out and squeezed Charles' hand. Her ruby lips formed a slight pout before she asked, “You forgive me, don’t you?”
“Of course. How could one consider their guest rude when the beauty of the garden drew them? Erase the thought from your mind.” Charles could feel his heart beating against the wall of his chest.
“But Mr. Carrington might think me aggressive, which I most certainly did not mean to be.”
“Don’t worry yourself. We don’t need to mention it at all.” Charles smiled and winked at her. “Come this way. James is waiting in his study.”
They walked down the hallway while Samantha stopped to admire the pictures on the wall. At the study doorway, Charles tapped and announced, “Miss Samantha Withers to see you, sir. She was admiring some of the oil paintings in the hall.”
James rose from his chair and rounded his desk, offering Samantha a warm smile. “What a surprise! Our meeting was so brief at the restaurant; I’m surprised you even remembered me. Though it’s quite a pleasure to see you.”
“You were so charming. How could I not remember you?” Samantha ran the tip of her tongue across her lips and then pursed them together into a tiny kiss, knowing Charles was still standing behind her. “You have a beautiful home. The aroma of the flower garden was so sensual. I can imagine enjoying a glass of merlot by the fountain.”
James glanced at Charles and then returned his smile to Samantha. “Oh, did Charles show you the garden before he brought you to the study?”
“Oh, I didn’t mean to give the impression that I’d been in the garden. I often let my imagination run away with me.” She turned and tilted her head toward Charles. “He was the perfect gentleman, bringing me directly to your study.” She winked at Charles before walking around James to look out the window. “My, what a beautiful view you have from your desk. And look, there is a fountain, just like I imagined, but far more romantic.”
“Thank you, Charles. I’ll let you know if we need anything else.”
Charles reached to close the study door when another female voice startled him. He jumped and almost knocked Lady Marian to the floor.
Laughing, she swept past Charles, making a grand entrance into the study. “You’d think you’d seen a ghost or something worse, Charles. It’s simply me in search of my husband.”
Not accustomed to seeing Marian so early, James took a moment to recover from the shock. “Oh, what a surprise, dear.” He hastily buttoned his shirt. “Nothing’s wrong, is it?”
Ignoring James, Marion crossed the room to Samantha, reaching out to take her hand but never removing her eyes from the brown ones staring back at her. “Darling, you didn’t tell me we were having company. I would have worn something a bit more appropriate.”
“It’s a beautiful peignoir. The color brings out the blue in your eyes. I remember watching films with the leading actresses posed on their lounge chairs or waltzing around the room, swishing the silky fabric, accenting their sex appeal and beauty. It suits you very well.”
“Hmm—our guest is a lady of taste, I see.” Marian turned sideways so she could see James as well. “Excuse my husband’s lack of manners. I am Lady Marian, and I welcome you to our home.” Turning back to Samantha, she smiled and asked, “And you are?”
“I’m honored to meet you, Lady Marian. I’m Samantha Withers, a struggling, working girl. Please call me Sam; all my friends do.”
“Ooh, a working girl. Are you going to star in one of James’s movies?” Marian appeared to be flustered and walked to the window. “I usually play the lead, but maybe my husband is thinking of expanding his flock.”
Samantha closed the few steps between them and wrapped her arm around Marian’s waist. “Oh, I could never take your place. I’m not star-material like you are.”
Marian’s eyes met Sam’s, and she smiled. “You’re such a dear.”
“To be honest, I hoped to interest your husband in a business deal I’m toying with. I’m always looking for ways to expand.”
“How interesting, Samantha. I mean Sam.” Marian crossed the room and took her husband’s arm. “James and I were about to partake in a little breakfast in the garden. It’s stunning at this time of the year. Would you like to join us?”
“Oh, I couldn’t impose on your time together. I can come back another time.”
“Nonsense, Sam. I’m always interested in my husband’s work. I’d love to hear your ideas.” Marian looked at James. “Darling, please invite our guest.”
“Oh—uh—of course. Please, Miss Withers, my wife and I would be honored if you would join us.”
“Thank you. In that case, I skipped breakfast this morning, so I would love to join you and please call me Samantha.” The reference to her full name instead of Sam showed in James’ slight smirk. Giving Marian’s arm a soft squeeze, she added. “I’m eager to see the garden.”
“Wonderful.” Marian glided back to Sam’s side and slipped her arm into their guest’s arm. “The garden it is.” She called over her shoulder to James, “Could you ask Charles to serve those delicious pastries he bought yesterday? Or, Sam, would you prefer something more substantial, like an omelet?”
“The pastries will be fine. A girl can indulge occasionally, right?” Samantha smiled at James before she waltzed through the terrace doors with her new friend.
James scowled as the two women disappeared into the garden before ringing for Charles. He realized not one, but two women, had just dismissed him. He controlled women, not the other way around, especially those who wanted to do business with him.
“Okay, Samantha Withers, you may have gotten the upper hand this morning, but beware because I love playing games, especially dangerous ones with beautiful women.”
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - a childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur Mary Beth Jacobs - deceased waitress and stand-in actress |
By Begin Again
Samantha leaned over and inhaled the roses. “This apricot rose is stunning. What’s it called, Scarlett?”
Marian’s head jerked toward the veranda and then back to Sam. “Are you crazy? Why would you use that name?”
“Well, you are Scarlett Marian Carrington, aren’t you?” Samantha laughed at Marian’s scowl. “Excuse me, but that’s what I’ve called you for the last thirty years.”
“Shush, Sam. You never know who is listening. Change the subject, please.” Marian replaced the frown with a smile. “We call the beautiful rose Honey Perfume. It’s one of my favorites because it has such a delicate aroma like an exquisite perfume.”
“It’s gorgeous, just like the southern belle you have become.”
“O heavens, must you persist? I believe naming you after a witch was perfect. You are so devious. My mother lived and breathed Gone with the Wind and Rhett Butler.”
“I must tell you, I’m impressed by how you can fool a creep like Vito Moretti. But please be careful.”
“I can make mistakes. I’ve got dementia, remember. You, on the other hand, are walking a tightrope. Never forget for a moment that James is a dangerous man.”
“Speaking of James, it appears he is standing on the terrace watching us. Maybe we should return before he gets suspicious of our friendship.”
“Not to worry. I will take care of everything, dear. You worry about you, okay?”
Sam nodded, and the two women strolled back through the garden toward the terrace. Marian leaned against Sam’s arm as they walked closer to James.
“Is everything okay, darling? I didn’t expect you to be in the garden that long. Charles brought coffee and pastries and says he’ll bring the omelets if you desire.”
“Oh, James, I wanted to see our garden, and I got lost.” She sniffed and wiped her eyes. “Luckily, this young woman found me and brought me back to the house. Please pay her for her troubles.”
James looked confused. “But, Marian, darling, Sam is a guest.”
“I’m so tired, James.” Marian leaned against his chest and sighed. “Who is this Sam you are talking about?” Marian wavered and clutched her husband’s arm.
James kissed Marian’s forehead. “Let me call for Cheryl, darling. I think you need to rest.”
“Yes, I need someone to help me.” Marian raised her head and looked at Samantha. “I don’t know your name, but I am grateful for your help.” Marian leaned closer to her husband and whispered, “I believe she’s an angel sent from above. Watch your language, so you don’t offend her.”
“I will, darling.” He smiled at Marian. “Look, Charles has come with more coffee. Maybe he can help you.”
“Wonderful.” His wife paused and then asked, “Do I live in this wonderful home or do we have to travel? I hope it’s not far if we do.” Marian wiggled her fingers at Samantha and smiled. “Goodbye.”
Charles wrapped his arm around Marian’s waist. “It’s not far, Lady Marian. Cheryl will have you snuggled in your bed in just a few minutes.” Marian nodded and allowed Charles to escort her off the veranda.
“I’m so sorry. I didn’t know.” Samantha’s sad and troubled face could have won her an Oscar. “I shouldn’t have asked to see the garden.”
“It’s not your fault. Seriously, Marian wanted to show you her roses, and nothing would have stopped her. It’s something that happens. One minute she’s my wife, and another moment she becomes someone else or forgets who she is.”
“Oh, that’s why she told me her name was Scarlett. I was so confused.” Samantha shook her head. “She’s such a darling but seemed confused.”
“She starred as Scarlet Ohara in an off-Broadway play, and now she loves when I become her Rhett. It’s the least I can do for my wife, and it can be quite enjoyable.” An embarrassed smile crept across his face and then disappeared.
Samantha moved closer, letting her warm breath sweep across his face. “I misjudged you, James. You aren’t a ruthless entrepreneur. I adore the teddy bear in you.” She pressed her soft lips against his cheek and then spun away. “Forgive me. I have no idea what came over me.”
“Nothing to forgive, Samantha.” James brushed her hair to the side and kissed her neck. “You smell delectable.”
“Please—call me—Sam.” A pink blush crept across Samantha’s face as she turned around to face him. Her voice was husky. “I believe we are going to become great friends.”
“Yes, very—close—friends.” James cleared his throat and pointed to the table. “Let’s continue our conversation with coffee, and you can tell me all about your plans for the two of us.”
“Oh, I thought you’d never ask. The more I learn about you, the more I look forward to combining our resources.”
James studied Sam over the rim of his coffee cup, expecting her to continue the conversation. Sam nibbled on the corner of a pastry and glanced around the garden. Each one waited for the other to break the silence and end the standoff.
“When we met at the bar, you failed to mention the mansion or your wife. I would have dressed a little more appropriately had I known.” Sam leaned down to brush her pant leg, exposing more of her ample breast to James’s devouring eyes.
“Nonsense. I think your choice was perfect.” His eyes did a slow waltz across her breasts. Leaning closer, he let his fingers flutter across the soft mounds. “I’m enjoying what I see.”
“Maybe someday I could star in one of your movies. I’d be happy to show you the entire lay of the land.” Sam giggled and turned her head away.
“Careful girl. I am a married man.”
“Yes, you are. A girl can dream though and you seemed different the other night.”
James chuckled and raised his coffee cup, saluting her before he drank some of the dark brew. “Touche!”
Placing his cup on the table, he added, “I’ve never strayed from Marian, but I, too, like to dream, I guess.”
“Tell me, James, what would you say if I told you the possibilities of making millions while following your dream?”
“I live in a mansion, my dear. Why would you assume money would impress me?”
Sam let her eyes graze around the opulent patio and garden before she focused on James. “Because all men are interested in two things, making more money and having more women.”
“You intrigue me. I must admit I want to hear more about your plan, especially if it involves you.”
“It’s quite simple. In New Orleans, I worked for a woman who ran a very private and high classed brothel. It was more like a club, I guess. Her ability to maintain confidentiality provided her an impressive income. Personally, I want the opportunity to claim a share of that money.”
“Why would you think I would want to be involved with a brothel? Locally, they are a dime a dozen.”
“Not a brothel, James. A rich man’s private den where we provide his secret wishes and desires. Use your imagination.” A devilish grin crossed Sam’s face. “What man doesn’t like to indulge in his fantasy and then watch it over and over?”
“Miss Withers, if I am following your suggestion, you shock me. Though most of my filming allows my poor, demented wife to relive her dreams, any other business is strictly legit. I’m offended by your belief I would involve myself in such actions.”
“My apologies if I have misspoken. I thought—” Sam pushed her chair away from the table and stood. “Never mind. I mistook you for a man who took risks. Thank you for the breakfast, your time, and a view of your fabulous home. I’ll not bother you again.”
Flustered by Sam’s icy tone, James realized he’d overplayed his hand in her game of cat and mouse. He knocked the table sideways as he jumped from his chair, sending coffee cups and pastries sprawling across the veranda. “Wait! My words were much sharper than I intended.”
Sam continued to walk toward the entrance, ignoring his plea.
“Please, let me explain.” James reached out for her arm, but she stepped away.
“No need. I doubt I will have any problems finding someone else that might be interested.”
“Samantha—Sam. Your suggestion wasn’t anything I’d ever considered. I make movies for my wife’s pleasure and mine.”
Sam paused in the doorway before turning to glare at James. “Mr. Carrington, I fear you mistook me for one of your brainless starlets. A mistake I hope you will regret.”
“Forgive me. Your idea caught me by surprise. I’m not that type of film director.”
“Hm, now that surprises me, since I recognized the garden and the pictures in the hallway. Moretti Productions used them in a few porn movies. Did you or your wife authorize it?” Sam spun around, almost trampling Cheryl as she exited the study. “I’ll see myself out.”
Stunned, James stood with his mouth open as she walked away.
Bewildered by their guest’s abrupt exit, Cheryl mumbled, “Sorry, sir, Lady Marian says she wants to delay today’s filming.”
“Whatever!” With no further comment, he walked into the garden, wondering how he’d lost the game twice in one day.
| Author Notes |
Characters: Vito Moretti - a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - a childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur Mary Beth Jacobs - deceased waitress and stand-in actress |
By Begin Again
James adjusted the knot of his necktie, catching his reflection in a mirror on the library wall. Pleased with his looks, he moved to the window, pushing the pale gray sheers aside as he watched Samantha’s car enter the circle drive. The tiny compact car didn’t suit her long, slim body, and she arched her back and stretched before closing the car door. Her navy pantsuit and low-cut blouse accented her every curve. She adjusted the vibrant colored scarf around her neck and strolled toward the front entrance.
James hurried to the doorway and waited for her to knock. Not wanting to appear too eager, he waited until she tapped again, and then he swung the door open.
“Miss Withers, I am so happy you accepted my invitation. When you didn’t answer my message, I thought you’d decided not to forgive my rudeness.” He took her hand in his, giving it a little squeeze. “I believe Marian’s setback in the garden upset me more than I realized. Normally, I try to protect her from the outside world.”
“Lady Marian and I had a delightful time admiring the roses. I was hoping she’d be joining us today.”
“Oh, I know she’d have loved to see you, but I am afraid she’s under the weather. She had quite a rough night.”
As James took Samantha’s arm, he added politely, “May I please escort you into the study. I hope we can start fresh, and you will tell me all about your ideas.”
Charles raced down the staircase as James was about to close the study door, calling his name. “James. Wait! I need a minute with you.”
James scowled as Charles ran toward him. “I have a guest, Charles. Can’t it wait?”
“No, sir.” Charles leaned close to James’s ear and whispered, “I found Marian’s slipper in the East Wing.”
Sparks of anger lit up James’s eyes as he closed Samantha in the study. He snarled under his breath, “Find her.”
“We’ve been looking.” Charles took a deep breath. “I alerted all the staff in the East Wing, but no one has seen Marian.”
“Are all the bedroom doors locked so she can’t get into them? You know what a problem that would cause, right?”
“I do, but I can’t be everywhere, and it’s Cheryl’s job to keep an eye on her.”
“Quit your whining and go help them look. I’ll be right there.” James glared at Charles as he hurried back to the stairs, then he stepped into the study.
“Is everything alright? Maybe I should go, and we can discuss things on another day. I know you’re a busy man.”
“No, don’t go. Just give me a few minutes. It appears we have a problem with the set, and of course, it requires my attention. Maybe you’d like to browse the garden.”
“That’s a wonderful idea. Business comes before pleasure, so take your time and do what you need to do. It’s a gorgeous day. I would love to stroll through the gardens again.”
“Oh, thank you. I shouldn’t be gone long.” James gave a quick smile and then hurried out of the study.
**************
A small greenhouse nestled amidst a sea of rosebushes. It wore a heavy coat of lush green ivy. Marian watched the pathway from behind the dirt-smudged window, waiting to steal a few brief minutes with Samantha.
When she saw her friend approaching, she cracked the door and tried to catch Samantha’s attention. “Meow. Meow.”
Samantha stopped and glanced around. Speaking very low, she answered the friendly feline, “Marian, are you pretending to be a cat?”
“It fits my insanity if someone should see us.”
Climbing over the vines, Marian stood behind an oak tree hidden from the house. “We must make this fast, but I needed to warn you. Cheryl overheard James talking to someone on the phone yesterday after you left. He asked them to investigate you.”
“Hmm—so he took the bait.” Samantha walked from rose bush to rose bush, stopping to smell each one, making sure she was still within hearing distance of Marian.
“What! You wanted him to find out who you are? Have you lost your mind?”
“He won’t discover the truth. A whole new life has replaced my past. If anything, he made it easier for me to set our trap.”
“Are you sure you can go through with this, Sam? What if he recognizes you? Or sees the scar?”
Samantha’s hand touched the scarf. “He won’t. Besides, cosmetic surgery did wonders. It’s not even noticeable anymore. The scarf is a reminder.
“I don’t know how he would forget your face, Sam? You’re so beautiful, even after the surgeries.”
“He never focused on my face when he forced me to dance for him and his buddies. Besides, he thought I was drunk when he raced out of the room. He was behind the camera, and the other creep was too busy touching me. They were young, drunk, and stupid. I only wish my sister hadn’t paid the price for our foolishness. They wanted sex, and we wanted money.”
“She didn’t deserve to die.” Marian hugged Sam. “I better get back before he gets suspicious.”
“Not to worry. I will distract your husband. I’ve not forgotten what he liked. I play the role over and over in my mind every night.” A tear slid into the corner of Samantha’s eye, and she brushed it away. “Besides, when I offer him the million-dollar deal, all he will see is dollar signs.”
“Please, be careful.”
Marian stepped to leave and then laughed. “When we were young, the hours of roaming secret passages paid off. No one knows they exist except you and me.”
“Be careful, Marian. There’s no telling what James might do if he knew you could spy on him and everyone else in that house.”
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - a childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress |
By Begin Again
"Grandpa, I'm sorry that another college beach party bothered you and Grandma." Sam signed, "How many times have I told you to take a vacation that weekend? I'd drive you and Grandma wherever you want to go."
Sam's grandpa's husky voice yelled into the receiver. "I won't let those young hoodlums drive me out of my home." She smiled because she could imagine his snarled face and his fist waving in the air.
"It’s a tradition, Grandpa. Unless something tragic happens, the merchants of St. Simon will not stop them. The money spent that weekend determines whether they survive the off-season.”
Henry snarled, “Something tragic! Do you mean a young woman’s death isn’t horrible enough? What’s this world coming to?”
“Death? Who died, grandpa?” Samantha’s current job didn’t give her much time to follow the local news.
“Hells bells if I know. Don’t you read the papers, child? Poor thing got burned up in one of those dang bonfires.”
“There should have been plenty of witnesses. Those college kids cram the beach. What does the Sheriff say? Do they have any clues?”
“Welcher came around, but you know I’m not talking to him. I wouldn’t even give him the time of day if my life depended on it. Of course, your grandma told me I should tell him about the pictures, but I ain’t giving him nothing.”
“Pictures? Ones of that night?” Sam couldn’t control her interest. “Who’s got pictures, Grandpa? Do you know how I can get in contact with them?”
“If a certain granddaughter paid her grandparents a visit and came for dinner, she might know what goes on around this place.”
Sam recognized the sadness in her grandfather’s voice. She’d been working many long and arduous hours, and a visit was overdue. She was all the family they had since her sister died.
“I’m sorry, Grandpa. I know I should get there more often, but I can’t always take time off when I'm on a case. You know how that is, right?”
“Yeah, yeah, I do, Sweetie. I don’t mean to harp at you, but you’re all your grandma, and I have. We miss you.”
“I promise to make time real soon, but tell me about these pictures. Do you know who has them and if I can see them?” Sam was eager to know more about that night and if Welcher was covering up anything.
“Well, maybe if a certain young woman came to visit—” He knew she was busy, and he hated to put her on the spot.
“Grandpa—”
“I know. I know. You’re on a case.” Henry scowled. “Can’t blame a lonely old man for trying, now, can you?”
“Grandpa, that old line will not fly with me. You and grandma are the center of everything out there. Seems you know more than our Sheriff. I have heard nothing about pictures. I am positive if Welcher knew they existed, he’d be tooting his horn all over the media.” Goosebumps covered her arms. It terrified her to have her grandparents anywhere near Welcher, especially now.
“He doesn’t know, and I’m telling you, he won’t either.” Sam could imagine the satisfied grin on Henry’s face.
“Now, Grandpa, it’s against the law to hide evidence. The person with the pictures could get into big trouble.”
“Well, then you better prepare yourself to visit me in jail cause I ain’t giving my camera to Welcher. Besides, this old man was just out taking some pictures of the night sky. I ain’t even developed them yet.”
“Grandpa, are you saying you took pictures that night?”
“Sure did. Even saw those two drunks with a girl. I just thought they ran away when those darn cans started exploding.” Henry laughed. “You should have seen the beach clear out. They skedaddled faster than a jackrabbit dodging bullets in the snow.”
“Grandpa, listen. This is important. Don’t tell anyone else about that film. I’ll be out there in a day or two, okay?”
“Sure, Sweetie. Don’t you worry none about it. I’ll keep it safe.”
“You and Grandma stay safe too, you hear me? I’ll be out as quick as I can.”
“Not to worry. I’ve got Betsy. She ain’t been used in a while, but I still clean her, and she’s raring to go.”
“Grandpa, no guns. Promise me you won’t shoot someone.”
“Now, I can’t be making promises I might not keep.”
“Grandpa, you wouldn’t want me to send Welcher to the island again, would you? I could tip him off that someone has evidence, and his people would swarm the place. Of course, I would never tell him it was you, but he’d be pestering everyone, including you.”
“You do what you gotta do. This old man ain’t going to let that snake on my property again.” Hank coughed and added, “Grandma’s calling me. Gotta go, honey. Love you.”
“Wait, Grandpa. Promise me—” The line went dead. Sam stood holding the phone in her hand while every imaginable frightening thought spun around in her head. “Oh, Grandpa! What do I do? What do I do?”
Searching her phone, she pushed a speed dial number and waited for it to ring. The knock at the door startled her, and she cut off the call. As her eyes focused on the person entering the small reception area, it took a miracle to stop her thoughts from blurting out at the man standing in her doorway.
“Is the owner around?” The Sheriff walked around the room, openly staring at everything on the desk and credenza. “I had an appointment with her.” Sam felt relief when Welcher extended a handshake. Between all the years and surgeries, he didn’t recognize her. “I’m Sheriff Welcher. You must not have been in town long. I know I’d have remembered a good-looking woman like you if I’d seen you before.
Sam forced herself to smile. “How kind of you, Sheriff. Unfortunately, my boss is out of town. Can I help?”
Welcher picked up a magazine and flipped through the pages. “Pleasant office. Kind of small, though. Is this where you do business?”
“The company isn’t open yet. We’re scouting the area to see if it suits where we want to do business.”
“Oh, I see. I got a call that someone was soliciting if you know what I mean. A friend asked me to check it out.”
“I’m sorry you made the trip for nothing. Your friend must have mistaken our company for someone else.”
Welcher liked what he saw and moved closer to Samantha. “I was so taken with your beauty that I guess I missed your name.” His eyes traveled from her face, lingering on her bosom, and then returned to her eyes. “What should I call you?”
Samantha turned and opened the credenza, removing an expensive bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon and two glasses before she answered, “Depends how close we are going to become.” Her smile oozed with honey. She slipped her peasant blouse off her shoulders. “Is this all business or pleasure?”
“My daddy always told me there was no harm in mixing a little business with pleasure, especially if she was a beautiful lady.”
Samantha brushed against the Sheriff as she moved to the front door and turned the lock and the closed sign. She smiled and stepped very close to prey. “In that case, maybe we should move into the other room, where it’s more comfortable. A man like you probably prefers his whiskey. I have a bottle of Jack if you’d like a glass.”
“It’d be my pleasure if you’re going to join me.”
Samantha controlled her desire to laugh in his face. He looked like he was about to pant like a dog in heat. “Well, I’m warning you, hard liquor makes me a little frisky. You enter at your own risk.”
“Don’t you worry your pretty little head about me. This ole boy can handle anything, especially a woman.” His breath was hot against her skin.
Samantha tugged on her blouse, exposing an ample portion of her breasts. “Oooo! Shame on you, exciting me like that.”
“Believe me; I haven’t even got started.” Welcher couldn’t resist running his finger across her ample breasts.
Samantha laughed. “Why don’t you make yourself comfortable in the other room while I get the glasses and Jack. We can talk with no one interrupting.” She wet her lips with her tongue and then nibbled her bottom one. “I’ll call and have the answering service pick up any calls.”
“Sounds real good to me.” He moved toward the door Samantha had pointed to and added, “Don’t keep me waiting.”
“Oh, I won’t, I promise. Just get comfy.” After he entered the lounge area, she pulled the door closed, hurrying as far away as she could so he wouldn’t hear her on the phone. She dialed and waited for someone to answer.
“Hello.”
“Get ready. Our Sheriff is hooked. It’s going to go down fast.”
“We’re ready. We’ve got a truck parked down the street. Good luck.”
“Thanks. It is going to be a pleasure.” Samantha ended the call, found the Jack Daniels, and poured two water glasses, dropping a pill into Welcher’s drink. She slipped off her bra and thong, letting them dangle from one of her fingers, picked up the drinks and opened the door to the lounge. As she entered the room, she kicked the door closed with her foot and blew a kiss at the man lounging on the sofa with his shirt unbuttoned. “Ready or not, here I come.” As she handed Welcher his drink, she prayed the knock-out drug would hit him fast because his left hand was already pawing her breast.
“Let’s toast to a special evening.” Samantha dangled her lacy underclothes in front of his face before tossing them aside. “I hope you don’t think I’m one of those women who mess around with anyone. I need to get to know you.” She pressed his glass to his lips. “This will undoubtedly get our motors running.”
“No worry there, babe.” He swallowed the liquor, inhaling as its warmth slipped down his throat. “You got my motor running the minute I walked through the door.”
Samantha giggled. “A girl needs a teeny bit longer, so she’ll be relaxed. You want me to enjoy our time together too, don’t you?”
“Of course.” Welcher savored one swallow of the Jack and then followed it with a much longer one.
“Now that’s a good boy.” She felt his hand slip under her skirt, and a shiver ran down her spine. “Naughty! Naughty! You promised to finish a drink with me.” Samantha reached for his glass and playfully ran her tongue around the edge. “When your glass is empty, I might show you what else this tongue can do.”
Welcher’s eyes widened, and he tipped the water glass back, chugging every drop. His devious grin turned Samantha’s stomach as his hands grabbed her breasts. “I—I’m—ready, tooo pla--,”
Samantha whispered a silent prayer to her team. The drug worked fast, as they’d promised. Welcher slumped over as she pulled herself away from his clutches. She stripped off his clothes as ugly memories flooded her mind. Samantha gagged and turned away from his naked body.
She grabbed her phone, dialed, and spoke as someone answered. “Okay, he’s out. Clear the office of everything.”
“Okay, we’ll be there in a sec.” She heard the roar of the engine as the person started the truck. “We’re ready, Sam.”
“I stripped him, so when you get here, someone can take some compromising pictures, making sure they can’t see my face.”
“Are you sure you want to do that, Sam? The other pictures will be enough.”
“I’d rather shoot him, but I can’t. So, this is the next best thing.”
“Okay. The boss said, do anything you wanted as long as no one got killed.”
“Take lots of sickening pictures, shove him in his squad car, leaving only his cell. Oh yeah, make sure his car is disabled. I don’t want him to drive to safety in the dark. Somebody is going to see him. One last thing, please take pictures of whoever rescues him?”
“Don’t worry. The crew is pulling up in the back right now. We’ll take care of everything.” The driver stopped the truck while two other cars pulled up beside it. An entire team of workers hurried into the back of the building and Samantha’s rescue.
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - a childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress |
By Begin Again
James glanced around the vacant office building while the sheriff finished dressing. “Welcher, you can tell me the truth, man.”
“What’s that supposed to mean?” Welcher finished buttoning his shirt and scowled before replying, “I told you I dropped in to question the owner, and this woman came on to me.”
“You want me to believe a beautiful woman meets you for the first time, seduces you, drugs you, and leaves you naked in your squad car. Oh yeah, I forgot to mention she cleared out the entire office. There’s not even a paper clip on the floor.” James laughed and shook his head. “You either took some wild drugs and were hallucinating, or your mysterious woman is one quick thinker.”
“Shut up! You can think what you want, but it happened just like I told you.” The sheriff paced the empty office, shaking his head. “There was something kind of familiar about her, but for the life of me, I can’t put my finger on it.”
“What’s her name?” When Welcher didn’t answer the question, James laughed hysterically. “You didn’t even get her name? Way to go, Sheriff.”
Angered by his stupidity and James’s enjoyment, Welcher shoved his friend against the wall. “Shut up! You better remember who I am. I can have you back in prison with just one phone call.”
James brushed off his shirt, stood there for a moment, and then grabbed Welcher’s shirt. “And I’ll enjoy having you as a cellmate. Or have you forgotten why I was in prison for something I didn’t do?”
The sheriff glared at James but quickly took a step backward. “Nobody’s going to believe an ex-con. It’s water over the dam.”
“Maybe for you, but not me. I’ve got plans for people, and you better not get in my way. Understood?”
“Sure. Have your fun.” Welcher looked around the room before adding, “Appreciate the help. That hussy better not cross my path, or she’ll pay big time. I’m getting out of here.” The sheriff walked toward the exit. “You coming?”
“You better stop and think a minute. This woman knew what she was doing. I’d say she’s got a safety plan, and you’d be wise to steer clear of her.”
“I’m not running with my tail between my legs for no woman.”
“I’m just saying think it through before you’re in deeper than you planned. Daddy will not have your back. You already called in that wild card.”
“Go to hell.” Welcher stormed out of the building to his squad car.
James yelled. “Already been there thanks to you.” He mentally patted himself on the back as he watched the sheriff’s car roar down the alley. “It’s only a guess, but I think the new girl in town is about to become my best friend.” He strolled to his car, smiling and thinking about Sam.
I believe I recognized that intoxicating perfume.
******************
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - a childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress |
By Begin Again
In the early morning hours, Samantha had chosen her wardrobe carefully, seductive yet professional. The form-fitting navy suit caressed every curve, and the sheer silk blouse beneath the tailored jacket encouraged the roving male eye to look deeper.
She leaned against the compact car, relishing the warmth of the Georgia sun as it enveloped her; its golden rays painted everything with a honey glaze. Glimpsing Marian in an upstairs window, she twirled around, swaying in the sunlight like a child. Raising her hands to the sky, she waved her fingers, with no one suspecting.
James admired her deceptive beauty from the library window, and then he laughed, remembering Paul Welcher’s predicament yesterday. His instincts told him she was behind it, but he wasn’t entirely clear on her motive. As she strolled toward the front door, he reminded himself she could be a dangerous adversary, a welcomed one, but one to be respected.
James opened the door and greeted Samantha with a beaming smile. “Good morning. I see you are enjoying this beautiful Georgia morning.”
“What’s there not to enjoy?” Samantha spun around once more. “It’s glorious, and I have high expectations that we will seal a deal today. The color of money, lots of money, might be the only thing more beautiful than the sun.” She leaned toward James and brushed his cheek with her lips. “And sharing it with you is icing on the cake.”
“Sounds delicious when you put it that way.” He squeezed her hand and smiled. “Charles has set breakfast on the patio. Shall we talk over coffee and pastries? Or would you prefer something else?”
“No, I have a sweet tooth, so the pastries are perfect. Will your darling wife be joining us?” Samantha glanced around the room.
“No, I’m afraid not. Today, circumstances force you to dine with boring me.”
“I doubt boring is ever an adjective used to describe you.” Samantha walked through the double doors onto the patio, with James following close behind.
Once seated outside, James poured two cups of coffee and then casually mentioned the sheriff. “Do you know Paulie? I mean, Sheriff Welcher? He called me last night with a bit of a problem.”
“Oh, are you and the sheriff friends?” Samantha raised an eyebrow and continued to enjoy the coffee.
“As kids, we shared a wild and unconventional childhood. Then life became more complicated, and we went different ways but remained in contact.”
“Being in law enforcement, I would imagine he could handle just about everything or everyone he came face-to-face with. I always imagined men like him flashing their badge and getting their way.” Samantha nibbled her pastry. “You only need to smile.”
James took a sip from his steaming cup and smiled, graciously accepting her flattery. “Well, I guess he met his match and then some. A bold woman left him naked in his car behind a vacant office building. Now, Paulie swears it wasn’t empty, and a beautiful woman seduced him and then drugged him.”
“Oh my! I can’t imagine a woman doing something so bold unless she had a good reason. Did he give you any idea who she was? She might be an excellent asset to our business.” Samantha looked over the rim of her coffee cup. “We are in business together, right?”
Ignoring her last question, James responded, “He didn’t know her name or anything about her, but she put the fear of God into him. I wouldn’t want to see round two if they ever meet again.”
“If I were in her position, I’d have a game plan loaded with security, like compromising photos, maybe. Never leave yourself wide open for retaliation.” Samantha set her cup on the table. “Enough about Sheriff Welcher. He doesn’t concern me—but if it was you--” Samantha blushed and giggled. “I can’t believe I said that. You must forgive me.” She stood, but James reached across the table and took her hand. “Do you want me to go?”
“You can’t leave. We haven’t discussed business yet. Unless you’ve changed your mind.” James stood and drew Samantha from her chair. Putting his mouth close to her ear, he whispered, “You still want to work with me, don’t you?”
“I want nothing more than to—work with you.” Samantha pressed her body against him. Her napkin dropped to the floor, and she ran her hand down his pant leg as she bent to reclaim it.
A discreet knock on the door startled both of them.
Charles eyed the two and then addressed his boss. “You asked me to let you know when the studio was ready for today’s shoot, sir.”
“Yes, yes, of course. Miss Withers and I are discussing a new business project. Give me thirty minutes, and I’ll be there.” James took the napkin from Samantha and laid it on the table. “We’re going to finish our discussion in the garden. Please make sure we aren’t interrupted, Charles.”
“I understand, sir.” Charles turned to leave and stopped at the entrance of the house. “Thirty minutes, sir.”
James claimed Samantha’s hand and hurried down the path away from the house with one thing in mind. Once secluded by the rose bushes, he kissed her passionately and let his hand claim her breast. His breathing was raspy, and his movements showed he aimed to satisfy his desires.
“James—James, as much as I would like to pursue this avenue of passion, we need to discuss business.”
“You are driving me mad, woman. Haven’t you heard of pleasure before business?”
“In my line of work, it’s always business before a client finds his pleasure.” She glanced at the nearby bench. “Come sit with me. I have exciting news to share if you are interested.”
“What could be more exciting than you?” James tried to kiss her neck, but Samantha walked to the bench and waited for him to follow. “Does a million dollars excite you?”
“A million dollars? What kind of foolishness are you playing now?”
“I assure you, there is no foolishness involved. I have a client who wants to play naughty with a sexy redhead, which reminds him of his late wife. If he likes what he sees, he will pay a million dollars for her.” James’s mouth dropped open as he stared in disbelief. Samantha leaned close and whispered, “And if we make him happy with two girls, he’s willing to pay two million.”
“Why would someone with that amount of disposable money have to pay for his toys?”
“He wants exclusive rights to the beauties. They will remain here at the mansion but available at his discretion. He wants to be free to walk away when he’s done with them and have nothing attached to him. My client wants a camera in the room, and he will take the film with him when he leaves so that he can enjoy his private viewings.”
“I don’t know about him taking the film. I have a very lucrative business on the side where I discreetly sell the films.”
“That’s the best part, James. We can have hidden cameras, and you can still sell the copies. He doesn’t need to know.”
“What happens with the playmates when he gets bored and wants a new toy?”
“He says you can decide whether you offer them to another customer or sell them off. Isn’t that what you do with the young starlets now?”
“What? I don’t know where you got that idea.” James’s eyes widened, and he appeared surprised by Samantha’s comment.
“Come on, James. I understand you can’t just let these women back on the street when they are no longer useful. After all, they aren’t working prostitutes like my girls. But we pamper them during their stay and then pass them on. It’s just business. It’s not our concern, is it?”
“I don’t know. I’m taking an enormous risk.” James appeared reluctant, while his mind spun with ideas.
“I’m not greedy, so the million dollars appeals to me. I will leave it up to you what happens after our client is satisfied. Does that sound worth your while? A million dollars for two hotties and tons of bonuses if you decide to take the risk.” Samantha could almost see the dollar signs dancing in his eyes. “Imagine how many other millionaires would like to have the cake and dispose of it when finished without all the encumbrances of a divorce. They can walk away with a smile on their face.”
James stood and strolled along the path, admiring the roses but not saying anything. He kept his back to Samantha.
“Maybe I misjudged you. I apologize for thinking you’d take a risk and expand your current business. My only concern was keeping Sheriff Welcher away, and I believe I have single-handedly taken care of any problems we might have with him.”
“Honestly, I could have saved you the effort. I have Paulie in my hip pocket for life.”
“Really? Are you going to share this tidbit of information with me?”
“Another day, maybe. Our thirty minutes are up, and I am supposed to be on set.” James wrapped his arms around Samantha. “I can’t imagine a better business partner. When do we start?”
“My—our client is eager to play. How soon can you have his new toy?”
“I’ve got a redhead available now, and I have another in mind. It might take me a few days, but I assure you he will love these beauties. And me—I believe I am about to have the time of my life.”
Samantha hadn’t expected quite that much excitement from James, but she was confident he’d taken the bait—hook, line, and sinker.
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - (an imposter called James Carrington) and a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - Vito's childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously and joins into the con game Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Paul Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress |
By Begin Again
Outside the police station, Garth leaned against his Jeep, half-listening to Tango’s monotone synopsis of the team’s canvassing work yesterday. The area was over-flowing with small film studios and theaters, but unfortunately, Jaz wasn’t a well-known actress. Beating the pavement hadn’t paid off for any of them. Today, they were covering a few “hot” party spots they’d learned about in their investigations, the places where the unknown wannabes mingled with directors, writers, and film crew, waiting for their big chance.
“Tango, so you’re telling me we have nothing solid. A few maybes and a couple of places where all the wannabe starlets gather and hope they get noticed.”
“That’s about it. So far, no one recognized Jaz. Most thought we’d have better luck with the dance houses, so we’ll be focusing on that area today.”
“Okay, keep in touch if you learn anything. I’m going to go inside and rattle the sheriff’s cage.”
“You pick up something on our good ole boy?”
“No, not yet, but my instinct tells me there’s a story behind him somewhere. I stopped into a small coffee shop on the outskirts of town and overheard a few locals gossiping. Something about the sheriff’s car behind some empty office buildings, and it looked like someone was running inside the building naked.”
“Naked? What the heck.”
“It might have been good old-fashioned gossip, but these old-timers were getting a big hoot out of it. The part that caught my attention was how they all hoped some woman had finally got the upper hand.”
“Yeah, the good ole sheriff appears to have a history of being a sleazeball. Something about Daddy’s power and money saving his butt more than once.”
“Speaking of the devil, I just saw Welcher going inside. Guess I’ll stop at his office and say good morning. Let me know if you uncover anything.” Garth ended the call and took the steps two at a time.
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - (an imposter called James Carrington) and a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - Vito's childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously and joins into the con game Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Paul Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress |
By Begin Again
Like tufts of cotton, the clouds drift with the gentle breeze across the jewel-blue sea and a soft blue curtain of sky. Squabbling seagulls dive-bombed the early beachgoers while seeking edible treasures in the washed-up seagrass.
"Emmy, look near the end of the pier." Hank pointed in that direction.
A school of dolphins burst from the waves, moving across the water on their tails. "Oh, they are dancing for us. What a gorgeous sight."
"Makes me miss our home in Gulf Shores. Relaxing on the deck and watching the ships in the distance while the waves lapped against the shoreline. Man, it doesn't get any better than that." Hank closed his eyes and let his mind drift.
"Are you sorry we worked after we retired? Because you know we can stop roaming around the countryside any time you want to."
"Only when you want to stop, my love. I still enjoy the hunt."
"Me too. What exactly did Garth say about this meeting we’re to have this morning? Does he know this woman, and what's the connection?"
"All he told me was, coincidentally, there's another team working in the area. The person we are meeting is Samantha Withers. She might have a connection to a murder victim, the one we thought was Jaz. I guess the Director thought she needed our help. Anything else, I assume, we learn from her."
Samantha walked through the sand with a pair of white sandals dangling from her fingers, letting the water wash over her toes. It was early, and there weren't many couples on the Beach House deck, so she quickly spotted Hank and Emmy. Not having the heart to interrupt their morning bliss, she watched them, knowing she was envious. Samantha laughed, remembering Garth's remark about looking for the elder lovebirds.
Hank spied her standing near the pier's edge, her presence masked by enormous hanging fishnets and empty containers. His eyes met hers as she watched them. He stood and waved, signaling her to join them. Slipping on her sandals, she worked her way across the sand and to the deck. Hank extended his hand and assisted her as she climbed the two weatherbeaten stairs.
"Thank you. I'm Samantha Withers." She offered her hand to Emmy, "I have the pleasure of meeting the highly regarded private investigators, Emmy and Hank Armato?" She shook Hank's hand.
"Don't know about the highly regarded part, but yes, this is my lovely wife, Emmy, and I'm Hank."
"I understand you have worked with Garth Woodman and his team on several cases. The Director and Garth spoke highly of both of you."
"Thank you for the flattery. I take it you work for the FBI as well."
"Yes, I do, but currently, I'm involved in a more personal matter with my childhood friend. We grew up in this area. My grandparents, Henry and Tina Pagani, live on St. Simon Island. That's why you are here."
"Where they found the woman's charred body? What a dreadful accident."
"Accident? Highly unlikely. I wasn't aware Garth's team was working on that case. I thought he'd been in Napa Valley. Can't imagine a connection between the east and west coast."
"Someone shot at Allie and Garth in a restaurant while they watched a video of someone shooting her sister. We believe the video took place at Francine's."
The sheriff's office requested Allie to identify the body. We had wrapped up our case, so we all joined her for moral support."
“Mighty good friends. Is that why the sheriff's department didn’t release any names?
"The body was not Allie's sister. A relief, but now we have been searching for some clue to her whereabouts with no luck so far."
“In the meantime, what do you need from Emmy and me? Does this have anything to do with your personal matter?”
“I don’t believe so. It has more to do with the case you thought you were working on originally.”
Emmy frowned. “I'm not sure I understand.”
“There's no love between the Sheriff and my grandfather. If he had to choose a skunk or Welcher, I guarantee he'd take the skunk. To say he hates him would be putting it mildly. On the night of the bonfires, Grandpa Henry, an avid photographer, took pictures of what was happening, intending on using them to end this annual event. Instead, it's possible he photographed the murder. When the police trampled his prize garden, he got angry and neglected to mention the camera. He hid it in the closet and then forgot about it until I talked to him the other day. I tried to convince him to turn over the photos to the sheriff, but he refused. He's a stubborn man.”
“Do you think he let us see the pictures?”
“I am hoping. Gramps knows I am coming. I'll have to convince him you're not a friend of Welcher's.”
“That shouldn't be too difficult.”
“Mind me asking why he hates the Sheriff so much?”
Samantha stared out at the water for a long time before she answered. “It has something to do with my sister and me. She passed away, and he's been bitter ever since. I wouldn't bring it up, though. It’s a real sore spot.”
“He's entitled to his privacy. Let's go meet your grandparents and see if Henry will let us look at those pictures.”
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - (an imposter called James Carrington) and a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - Vito's childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously and joins into the con game Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Paul Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress |
By Begin Again
"Excuse me a moment; I need to take this call," Samantha answered the phone and walked away from Hank and Emmy. "What's wrong, Marion?"
"I was in the passageway by the study and overheard James telling Charles there had been a change of plans. James mentioned you'd given him a great idea. I could tell he was excited about it."
"Did he give you any idea of when this might go down?"
"James told Charles to get the starlet ready, and they'd handle the wildcat later. It sounds as if he is setting someone up because he told Charles to leave her fingerprints everywhere. I'm sorry I'm not much help. The passageway was on the opposite side of the study, so it was hard to hear everything."
"No, kiddo. You did fine. It sounds like James is trying to add a twist to the deal I offered him. I wish we had more time to learn what he's got in mind. Be careful, Marion. He's a dangerous man."
"I will. I better go. I am making a little surprise visit."
"Marion, remember you are playing with fire. Right now, you are useful to him, and he believes your dementia keeps him safe. If he ever learns you are the real James Carrington's sister and not his wife, you know he won't hesitate to kill you. You can expose everything."
"I am aware of the situation, Sam. We're lucky neither James nor Charles ever met me."
"No, we are lucky the military notified you of your brother's death before either man arrived on your doorstep. I wish we knew what their plans were besides living in luxury at your expense."
"Sam, I better go. Talk to you later." Samantha leaned on the railing, staring at the ocean long after Marian had ended the call.
Deep in thought, the touch of Emmy's hand startled her on her arm and Hank's voice as he asked, "Everything okay?"
“Huh?” Samantha’s eyes were glassy, and she appeared disoriented, but she recovered quickly. “Oh, sorry. It appears as if someone is adding his own glitch to the case I’m working on.”
“Need any help?”
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - (an imposter called James Carrington) and a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - Vito's childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously and joins into the con game Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Paul Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress Tiffany - an actress as a stand-in double for Jaz |
By Begin Again
While they waited for Henry to come out of his darkroom, they shared small talk with Grandma Tina and learned more about the wild parties on the beach and how Sheriff Welcher always looked the other way. A wall of family pictures caught Emmy's eye, and Tina was more than happy to share stories about each of her family members. Her eyes lit up with each one of them.
When she came to a picture of two young women, Tina paused. The twinkle in her eyes turned gray, and the color drained from her face. Wringing her hands, she glanced at Samantha and then said, "You've probably heard enough. I'll make us some iced tea." Without another word, she hurried from the room.
Emmy looked worried. "Did I say something to upset her, Samantha? I certainly didn't mean to, but she seemed so bubbly as she talked about each picture. I thought she was enjoying telling me the stories."
"She was. It's a picture of my sister. Unfortunately, she lived on the crazy side of life, and she lost her life because of it."
"Oh Sam, I am so sorry." Emmy glanced toward the kitchen. "Should I go apologize?"
"No, it's not your fault. You had no way of knowing." Sam took the picture off the wall and ran her fingers across the photo. "I'm the other girl in the picture."
"You two are sisters? But you—"
"Look so different? You are right. I thought I was indestructible. Unfortunately, booze and drugs were another addition to partying, and we got involved with some wild guys. Underage teenage girls were looking to have some fun with some undergraduate students." Samantha shivered and turned away for a moment before she could continue.
"One night, high on alcohol and drugs. My sister and I allowed the guys to talk us into pole dancing and dangling from the ceiling with silk scarfs. The guys got the idea to film us. It was all fun and games until I slipped and the scarf wrapped around my neck. Someone called 911 before they split, leaving my little sister to keep me from hanging. While the EMTs worked on me, I was told that my sister went into the bathroom and took an overdose of ecstasy and whatever else she could find. She didn't make it."
Emmy wrapped her arms around Samantha. "I'm so sorry. Whatever happened to the older boys?"
Samantha looked toward the darkroom as the door swung open, and her grandfather stormed into the room. "One went to prison, and the other one serves as our illustrious sheriff; that's what happened to them. Satisfied?" Samantha tried to hug him, but he pushed her away.
Tina stood in the kitchen doorway, crying. "Henry, stop. They're guests."
"No law enforcement is a guest in my house, Tina. They are no different from the rest. Nobody cared about our babies." Henry shoved a bag into Hank's hand. "Do you want to know how many surgeries my granddaughter had and how she had to hide when she got death threats from the Welcher family? She finally had plastic surgery so no one would recognize her. She looks like a stranger."
"Grandpa, they didn't know. I'm sorry you heard us talking."
"Take your damn pictures and get out. I should have had a gun instead of a camera. They'd have got what they deserved."
"Grandpa, please." Distraught, Samantha twisted her head one way and then the other, looking at everyone but not knowing how to stop her grandfather's anger.
"We're sorry, Mr. Pagani. We never meant to upset you and your wife."
Tina pulled away from her enraged husband and hugged her granddaughter. "It's best you and your friends go, Sam. Don't worry about your grandpa. I'll take care of him." She turned to Hank and Emmy. "It's not your fault, so don't worry. Henry can't let go of his anger, and he takes it out on everyone."
Tears glistened in Emmy's eyes. "I'm so sorry."
"You didn't know. We'll be fine." She hugged Emmy and then turned her weary face to Samantha. "I'll call you tomorrow, dear."
"I love you, Grandma." She tried to hug Henry, but he went into his darkroom and slammed the door.
The sad trio left the beach house more miserable than they had come. As they trudged across the sand to their cars, each one was silent, lost in their thoughts.
At the cars, Hank offered Samantha the bag of photos.
"No, you take them. We'll get together tomorrow and look at grandfather's photos, okay?"
"Sure thing, Sam. Just let us know when and where." He climbed into the Mercedes but sat staring at the ocean.
Emmy reached across and took his hand. "We didn't know, Hank. Tina was right, though. It didn't make it feel any better. My heart breaks for them."
"I am terrified for Sam. I think her case has something to do with the guys responsible for what happened to her and her sister. We need to get her together with Garth. And fast."
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - (an imposter called James Carrington) and a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - Vito's childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously and joins into the con game Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Paul Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress Tiffany - an actress as a stand-in double for Jaz |
By Begin Again
James's angry voice boomed across the empty set. "Charles, end the chit-chat and get set up for the next shot."
Charles shot a furious look at James as he let go of Tiffany's hand and headed in James's direction. "You just said we wrapped for the day, didn't you?"
"Change of plans. Our new client wants top priority." James yelled at his two actors. "Get to make-up. We are shooting in thirty minutes."
"I'm not sure I know my lines. You said I had till tomorrow." Tiffany's lip pouted, and she glanced toward Charles.
James stormed across the room and grabbed her arm. "Did you hear me say change of plans?" He squeezed her arm until she squealed with pain. "Now, get to make up and be on set in thirty minutes if you know what's good for you."
"But—" Charles swooped in and wrapped his arm around Tiffany's waist. Startled, she turned to him. "Charles, I don't understand."
"If you want a career, you need to learn things change. The director gets what the director wants." Charles grinned at James and continued speaking to Tiffany, "While you're getting your make-up done, I'll help you with your lines. There are only a few. How's that sound?"
"You're so sweet." She turned to James and said, "You're sweet, too. I didn't understand. Sorry."
James glared at her. "Just make sure you give me a performance of a lifetime."
"Oh, don't worry, sir. It will be perfect. Just wait and see." Charles directed her to the door before James lost his temper again.
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - (an imposter called James Carrington) and a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - Vito's childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously and joins into the con game Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Paul Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress Tiffany - an actress as a stand-in double for Jaz Lenny - an ex-con playing a stand-in double for Drake Lexington Drake Lexington - movie director and current lover of Jaz |
By Begin Again
James commanded attention as his loud voice blasted against the walls, equipment, and everyone's ears. "Camera rolling." An icy chill ran down Tiffany's spine when he added, "Action."
Tiffany could almost feel his eyes burning her skin. His furrowed brows and the satanic grin made her cringe. She wanted to run, but her legs had turned to cement and wouldn't move.
Silence draped every inch of the room as James anticipated what was about to happen. The moment was the true beginning of his revenge. Drake's death would be the catalyst that brought Allie to him. His adrenalin surged as he imagined the fuse sparking and the fire weaving across the room to a spectacular explosion.
The knife dangled from Tiffany's hand, willing herself to complete the scene. Tears streamed down her face, some natural and others provided by makeup. She hadn't expected acting to be so difficult. The man lying on the bed looked so vulnerable to her. With his eyes closed and shallow breathing, she tried to lift the knife into the air, but her brain was screaming, "Stop. Don't do it."
She dropped the knife as her quivering hand reached out to touch him. She shook Drake's arm, but he didn't respond. Her eyes widened, and she spun around to face the camera. "Is he alright? What's wrong with him?"
"Cut."
The word exploded from James' throat. Springing out of the Director Chair, he rocketed across the room, screaming, "Idiot! Have you lost your mind?" He raised his hand to slap her, but Charles clasped it in midair as he stepped between Tiffany and James.
"She made a mistake, James. I'll talk to her." Charles's cold eyes stared into the ones staring at him. "Wouldn't want to spoil the perfect makeup job, now would you?"
"Does she know anything about acting?" James glared at the terrified actress and hissed, "Fix it."
"Give us five." The two men stood eye to eye, and then Charles winked at his friend. "I've got this."
James muttered, "You better have" and returned to the Director's chair.
Charles turned to Tiffany. His voice was soothing when he spoke. "Listen, I know James scares you. Just pull yourself together, and let's get this done. I know you can do it." He squeezed her arm. "Show him you know how to act."
Tiffany glanced sideways at the angry man across the room. "He's a horrible man."
Charles smiled. "Yes, he is, but we've got to get this scene done. Remember what I told you. Pretend it's him. You can do it."
Tiffany smiled as she gazed into Charles's eyes. "You're so much nicer than he is." She lifted her chin and smiled. "You are right. I can do it."
Charles picked up the knife and handed it to her. "I know you can. Now, on your mark. Remember, Tiffany; it's fake, so make it look real. Plunge the knife real hard. Do it more than once if it feels right."
Charles joined James, calling, "Quiet on the set. The only sound was James's heavy breathing and the clicking of the clapperboard. He yelled, "Action," and the camera rolled again.
Tiffany glanced sideways at both men, inhaling, waiting for the tears to flow. She picked up the script from the side table and shook it at the man lying across the bed. Her anger with James mounted, and she yelled, "You promised. You made love to me and told me I was going to be a star. It was all lies."
Tiffany took a needed breath and muttered, "And now, you toss me aside and give my role to someone else." She threw the papers and watched as they drifted to the floor and across the bed. "You'll not make a fool of me. I'm not your plaything."
Her white knuckles gripped the knife as she raised it in the air and swallowed hard, and stabbed his chest. At that moment, her anger exploded, and she plunged the blade, again and again, finally leaving it protruding from the gaping wound.
Drake's blood mixed with the bag of fake blood splattered like a breaking jar of spaghetti sauce, painting the crisp white sheets. Droplets pelted Tiffany's face, hands, and clothes. Unprepared for the contact, her hand flew to her face, smearing the sticky, crimson red substance with her fingers. Her eyes widened, and the reality of the moment erupted like a volcano. She had murdered someone.
Screaming hysterically, she backed away from the bed. Her body jerked violently. "You bastards! Oh my God, what have I done?"
Charles hurried across the room, but Tiffany's survival instinct told her to run. James growled, "Lenny, get her." Following the order to the ex-con, he snapped at Charles. "Set off the alarm and close the island gates. Tell security we've had an intrusion, and no one is to leave the island."
"It's already done. Should I go help Lenny find her?"
"No! Stick to the plan. Wrap up the body and get it on the boat. It takes six minutes to cross the river to Drake's house. You've got ten minutes to stage the scene. Set off the security alarm and get out of there. When security arrives, they will notify Welcher."
"What if—" Charles stared at the dead body.
"There aren't any what-ifs. Either it goes as we practiced, or we'll be looking at the inside of a prison. Welcher will give us a little time, but we can't expect too much from him."
"What about Lenny?"
"Lenny can search for the girl. He's not our concern at the moment. He can't get off the island either." James stood near the bed, smirking. "Let's get this done."
Charles slipped on his gloves and uncovered the gurney. The two men lifted the body and bedding, placing it on the gurney.
"Go!" James appeared calm and unaffected by the scene. He smiled. "I'll wait for you at the buoy. We'll destroy the boat and be back in the house in less than forty-five."
Terrified by what she'd witnessed, Marian jammed the sleeve of her sweater into her mouth to muffle her scream. She stumbled backward, making a soft thump. Paralyzed in fear, she listened, praying. In their rush, they hadn't heard her.
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - (an imposter called James Carrington) and a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - Vito's childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously and joins into the con game Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Paul Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress Tiffany - an actress as a stand-in double for Jaz Lenny - an ex-con playing a stand-in double for Drake Lexington Drake Lexington - movie director and current lover of Jaz |
By Begin Again
Marian returned the panel to its rightful home. A soft clicking sound on the next section assured her everything had locked in place. Tiffany leaned against the wall trembling, unaware of the wispy cobwebs, attempting to breathe. The passageway was dark except for the light from Marian's cell phone.
Marian extended her hand along the back wall, allowing her eyes to adjust, while her fingers searched for her lifeline, a steel bar. Grasping it, she followed it a few feet where it ended at a doorway, covered with layers of dust and cobwebs.
Brushing it aside, Marian opened the door revealing a stairway to a large room on another floor. She beckoned Tiffany to follow her and stepped inside. She flipped a light switch, and a bright glow from sconces bathed the entire room.
Tiffany stood in shock. "What is this place?"
Marian smiled, "According to family history, my great-grandfather built this as a private ballroom for my great-grandmother, who loved to dance. Her family descended from years of puritan beliefs frowned on what she enjoyed. During Major Sherman's march from Atlanta, I'm told, he and his union soldiers regrouped here. My father, Trenton Carrington, had electricity installed, and it was often my secret playhouse."
Tiffany stared at the yellowed sheets covering chairs, sofas, and cots. "That explains tea time on the small wooden table with all the stuffed animals."
"Yes, but we've no time to reminisce. My name is Marian."
"I'm Tiffany." She extended her hand to Marian but jerked it back. She whimpered as her eyes froze on the blood, "Oh, my God. What have I done?" For a brief moment, she'd forgotten the blood, the knife, the murder, and Lenny. She spun around toward the door. "What if they find us?"
Marian wrapped her arms around her. "They won't. No one in this house knows of the passageways or this room except me, Cheryl, my confidant and maid, and my life-long friend, Samantha. You are safe."
Tiffany shuddered, "They were going to kill me, weren't they?
"Yes, I believe they would have. I need to get back to my room before someone checks on me. This room is soundproof. As soon as I can, I'll send Cheryl with food and water. I'm afraid this will be your home until I can find a way for you to leave safely."
"Oh, please don't leave me here alone." Tiffany looked around the room.
Marian walked to one of the sofas and yanked the corner of the yellowed sheet. A cloud of dirt and dust filled the air. Both women coughed and moved away, fanning the air.
Clearing her throat, Marian choked, "So-r-ry abou-t tha-t." She coughed once more. "That wasn't one of my smartest moves."
"It's okay. But, do you have to go?" Tiffany's eyes pleaded with her.
"You're safe. I've got to get back. My phone doesn't work here, and I need to call for help." She walked to the opposite side of the room. "There are four doors—Each one goes to a separate part of the house. Just remember, you're safe here. You aren't outside this room." Marian opened the door and stepped into the dark passage. As she shut the door, she heard a ragged sob from the frightened actress. Marian reminded herself she had a job to do and that Tiffany was safe in the private hideout; then, she moved to the panel that opened into her make-up room.
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - (an imposter called James Carrington) and a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - Vito's childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously and joins into the con game Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and leads people to believe she suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Paul Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress Tiffany - an actress as a stand-in double for Jaz Lenny - an ex-con playing a stand-in double for Drake Lexington Drake Lexington - movie director and current lover of Jaz |
By Begin Again
It was noon, and the aroma of spicy food drifted everywhere. Poppa ordered two fish tacos and two regular tacos with side orders of Mexican corn. While he waited in line for their food, Tango finished talking with two girls they'd met at Henri's Hang Out. Neither had known Jasmine, but they thought their friend might have mentioned a redhead coming in with an up-and-coming director.
Poppa joined Tango at the picnic table he'd claimed for them. His feet were aching from all the walking they'd been doing for the last few days, and he wanted to enjoy his food, sitting. The girls said goodbyes and promised to send Candy over to them if she showed up for lunch.
They had devoured their lunch and finished their drinks while discussing what studios or clubs they should hit next. A dark-haired girl wearing a shirt sporting the logo "Henri's Hang Out" approached their table, stopping a few feet away.
She asked, "Are you FBI?"
"Depends. Are you a criminal?" Poppa teased.
She giggled and answered, "Of course not."
Tango smiled. "Would you be Candy, by chance?"
"Wow, how did you know that?" Her eyes darted around the picnic area. "Were you spying on me?"
"Your friends, Angi and Lindy, said they'd send you our way if you came for lunch."
"Duh! I guess I got nervous approaching the FBI. I'm not usually that scatter-brained." She scuffed her tennis shoe across the concrete.
"That's okay. Most people get nervous around this brute. Poppa, tell her you don't bite unless you're hungry." Tango laughed, adding, "He just finished a big meal, so you're safe, at least for another hour."
"Ha Ha! Ignore my comedian partner. He's got a screw loose." Poppa smirked at Tango. "Candy, do you have some information you want to share with us?"
"Yes. Angi said you were looking for Jaz. She's a redhead and just got offered a starring role in an upcoming movie. I don't recall the title, but it was Lady something or other. She was at Henri's with the director and was so excited."
"Do you know how long ago that was?"
"Two or three weeks ago, I think." Candy thought for a moment and then continued, "Yeah, it was three weeks because this other dude was giving her the eye, too. I remember him because he was wearing this ugly ring. It looked like a snake's head. And every time he took a drink, a shiver ran down my spine. It was creepy."
"Do you remember either of their names?"
"Not the creepy guy, but the other one is Drake Lexington. He's got a small studio over in the Savannah Hills area. I'm not sure if he lives there or has a home closer to the islands." Candy glanced at her watch. "I'm sorry, but I have to get back to work."
Poppa and Tango stood and shook her hand. "Thank you for all your help." She smiled and then hurried down the sidewalk.
Poppa inhaled and moaned. "That smells like fresh apple pie. Let's get a slice, and then we can call Garth."
"Yeah, I guess another twenty minutes will not make a big difference. I'll even buy if they've got ice cream to go with it." The two men followed their blood-hound noses and went in search of the pie.
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - (an imposter called James Carrington) and a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - Vito's childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously and joins into the con game Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and leads people to believe she suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Paul Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress Tiffany - an actress as a stand-in double for Jaz Lenny - an ex-con playing a stand-in double for Drake Lexington Drake Lexington - movie director and current lover of Jaz |
By Begin Again
A sudden cloudburst had replaced the early morning sunshine as Samantha stepped outside the restaurant. She tucked her head and hurried toward her car. A man wearing a tan trench coat and fedora rounded the corner of the building carrying an umbrella. Several smashed cigarette butts on the sidewalk indicated he'd been waiting there. A small warning alarm sounded in her head, but the inclement weather made her continue toward her car.
"Ma'am, did you lose this?" He tilted the umbrella to cover her head.
Samantha glanced at his gnarled hand, which held her cell phone. Her right hand reached inside her jean jacket, resting on the handle of her Glock. Her eyes noted the man's unfamiliar face and squinted eyes.
"It's my phone. How did you get it?"
"Doesn't matter, but my boss said he owed you a favor and asked me to return it."
"Your boss? Who's that?" Samantha glanced around the parking lot.
"I don't ask questions. I do as I'm told." He reached out and placed the phone in her hand and rushed away, disappearing amongst the parked cars.
Hank and Emmy exited the restaurant and briskly walked toward Samantha. "Everything okay?" Having seen a man talking to Samantha, he surveyed the parking lot.
"That guy returned my phone. Said his boss owed me a favor." Without the cover of the umbrella, Samantha shivered as the light rain beat against her face. "Let's get out of this mess. My car's right over there."
Samantha tossed her keys to Hank, and they climbed inside, brushing aside the wetness on their clothes. Hank started the car engine and then turned sideways toward Samantha. "Did he say how he got your phone?"
"Nope, not a clue. I knew a guy once who could pickpocket anyone, but that was a very long time ago." Samantha's thoughts traveled back in time, remembering a different life. "We were kids. Some of us learned; some didn't."
"Why take it and then return it to me?" Samantha looked at it, but it didn't show any messages or missed calls.
"A message of some kind, maybe." Hank stared at Samantha. "You seem a bit distracted, Sam. I think you should tell us about the guys in the pictures."
"Yeah, you're right, Hank." Samantha gazed out the car window for a moment, wondering if she should share what she knew. "We're on the same team, so I guess you should know all the facts."
Emmy reached over the back of the seat and touched Samantha's shoulder. "We all have a past, Sam. We will not judge you. And if it helps solve these crimes, well, that's even better."
Samantha nodded and smiled at Emmy. "I bet you never even had an overdue library book or tasted alcohol before you were twenty-one. Now my sister and I were a bit on the wild side and lived life to the fullest. Or so we thought."
"We all did things we regret, but we learned and changed our lives around. But what does any of that have to do with your case or the one involving Allie's sister?"
Tears glistened in Samantha's eyes, and she turned to stare out the window until she was sure she could continue. "James Carrington is an imposter. His name is Vito Moretti, an ex-con. He and Paulie Welcher, our current sheriff, were the two young men responsible for the night my sister died. Having never met the wife, Vito and Charlie thought they could pull off their scam, and no one would ever know the difference, except for my friend Marian, who happens to be the sister of the real James Carrington. She called me when this all began."
'So your case involves the two men running a porno studio while pretending to be Carrington. But how does that connect to Allie and Jaz?" Hank was trying to put the pieces together in his mind.
"The men in Gramp's pictures are Vito and Charlie. If that woman was supposed to be Jaz, then they were involved somehow. I do not know what that scam is, but I assure you it's a dangerous one."
"We need to get you and Garth together so you can compare notes." Hank put the car in gear. "Let's get these photos over to him and let him know what you just told me."
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - (an imposter called James Carrington) and a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - Vito's childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously and joins into the con game Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and leads people to believe she suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Paul Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress Tiffany - an actress as a stand-in double for Jaz Lenny - an ex-con playing a stand-in double for Drake Lexington Drake Lexington - movie director and current lover of Jaz |
By Begin Again
The entire team watched the video in its entirety and then again, stopping and starting, studying and evaluating it. At first, Allie was hysterical, witnessing her sister murder someone, but as her nerves regrouped, she, too, joined the group in questioning the video.
They'd concluded that all the events since the night of the shooting in Napa Valley had been an elaborate set-up to lure Allie to Savannah, Georgia. They knew the persons involved left clues specifically for Allie and the movie scripts played a considerable role. Jaz was the bait, and Allie was the prize. But why?
Samantha stood on the balcony, staring off into the distance toward the island. About nine months ago, Charles Dubois had descended upon the Carrington Estate with credentials supposedly from James Carrington, directing him to assist the wife with the estate until his return. Only days prior, his wife and his sister received notification of James Carrington's death, a lifetime friend of Samantha.
Marian Carrington notified Samantha of her brother James's death, Charles Dubois, and the suspicious homecoming of the much-alive yet deceased James Carrington. Samantha had used her vacation time and flew to Georgia to investigate the situation. Upon arrival, she'd received photos from Marian of the two men who believed they had the perfect scam, living the high life at the expense of a woman who has dementia.
Samantha recognized James's imposter as Vito Moretti, an ex-con recently released from prison. More importantly, from her tumultuous teenage years in Savannah, she recognized him as the man indirectly responsible for her sister's death. Vito Morreti was her nemesis.
Though she had no concrete evidence that Vito had committed a crime, Samantha had no doubt she'd only scraped the surface with her investigation when it came to Moretti. After hours of pleading with the FBI Director, she'd received authorization to dig deeper, especially after Marian discovered they were making disgraceful movies in the East Wing.
Samantha felt she was only days away from arresting Vito and getting revenge for her sister. Still, Gramp's photos tied him to Garth's case and the possibility of finding Allie's sister alive.
In all the hysteria, she realized she'd forgotten to make that call to Marian. She reached for her phone and saw she had a message from her friend. As she listened to Marian's frantic voice telling her about Tiffany killing someone, her mind knew her decision was made.
She punched in the phone number to Marian and waited for her to answer. Unfortunately, Tiffany suggested there were more girls, and Marian was on a mission to find them. Stalking the passageways, she no longer had cell phone coverage.
Samantha moaned, "Oh, Marian, where are you? You need to get out of there immediately. Your life is in danger. Call me."
Samantha took a deep breath and stared out over the horizon and the islands. "Stay safe, my friend. Please don't go face to face with this monster."
As she turned, Emmy walked onto the balcony. "Are you okay?"
Samantha grimaced and shook her head. "My heart wants to end my case and send Vito Moretti back to prison immediately. But—but my mind knows, your friends need my help."
"There's a missing girl, Allie's sister, who might still be alive. You can't bring your sister back, but letting Vito survive a few days longer might save Jaz. I know the Director told you not to get involved in Garth's case, but knowing what you do, I think you have to cross the line."
A small smile touched Samantha's lips. "I agree, and it won't be the first time I didn't listen to him." The two women joined arms and went back inside.
****************
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - (an imposter called James Carrington) and a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - Vito's childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously and joins into the con game Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and leads people to believe she suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Paul Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress Tiffany - an actress as a stand-in double for Jaz Lenny - an ex-con playing a stand-in double for Drake Lexington Drake Lexington - movie director and current lover of Jaz |
By Begin Again
The mood of Allie's eyes shifted from frightened to a glare as she studied Samantha's face before turning back to Garth. Do we take her at your word?' She glanced around the room at everyone. "What do we know about her? Since when can a stranger waltz in and take over?"
Emmy was standing closest to Allie, and she attempted to embrace her. "Allie, it's not like that."
Allie brushed Emmy's hand from her arm and snapped, "It isn't? Her investigation isn't authorized. She could be scamming all of us."
"Allie, We've spent time with Samantha. She's on our side." Hank put a protective arm around his wife. "Emmy was expressing everyone's thoughts."
"Really? I'm sorry, Hank, but you and Emmy aren't FBI. How would you know what the Director knows about her?"
Garth's stern voice boomed throughout the entire room. "Enough, Allie." He instantly regained his composure and added, "You might say things you will regret."
"What I will regret is letting a stranger plan my sister's rescue. What's wrong with you, Garth? Aren't you in charge? Or has she taken over you, too?"
Garth's eyes were dark as he glared at the woman he loved. "No one has taken over me, Allie, including you. I understand your pain and frustration, but it's my decision—not yours." He moved closer to Samantha and his friends. "It might help if you remembered you aren't FBI either, Allie."
Allie gasped in disbelief before dropping into a nearby overstuffed chair. Her eyes glistened with tears as they met Garth's, and then, under her breath, she muttered, "Guess you're right, Mr. Woodman." She hugged a pillow against her chest and glowered at everyone.
Ignoring Allie's remark, he turned to Samantha. "Please continue, Sam. I know I would like to hear your plan, especially since you know our suspect better than any of us."
Samantha's eyes shifted to Allie and then back to the group. "Thank you. I didn't mean to intrude."
Garth looked at Allie before answering, "You didn't."
Hank retrieved two dining room chairs and gave them to Emmy and Samantha. "Have a seat. We might be in for a long night."
After gathering everyone close, Samantha began telling them her plan. "I met our imposter at Francine's. I believe he was sizing me up for one of his conquests, and when I shut him down, he was stunned."
"Francine's? That's the restaurant where we met Selene and Tommy, isn't it?" Tango looked across the room at Garth. "Quite the coincidence."
"It's a trendy place to meet high classed women, especially in the bar. At our next meeting orchestrated in his home, I teased James with the thought of joining forces."
"Not that you aren't beautiful, Sam, but why would he be so eager to enter business with a stranger?" In defense of Allie, Tango felt he needed to question Sam. "You said he had quite the lucrative business already, right?"
"True. Not every man would take the risk for a million dollars, but Vito likes a challenge and making a conquest. I sweetened the pie by teasing him, offering a chance to mix business with pleasure. His enthusiasm spiraled when I mentioned my first client was only interested in a redhead."
Allie's scream pierced Samantha's ears. "A redhead? Does he have my sister?" Allie raced across the room, grabbing Samantha's shoulders. " What aren't you telling us? Are we supposed to believe you chose a redhead by coincidence?"
Garth pulled Allie away from Samantha. "Allie, stop, or you can leave." His heart shattered when he recognized the pain he was causing. But this was business, and she needed to separate her emotions or not be involved. "Allie, we all want to find Jaz as much as you, and Sam is our first real possibility of doing that. So either you are onboard or—"
"You're choosing her—" Allie glared at Samantha. "Over me?"
Garth spun Allie around and looked into her eyes. "Allie, I love you, but my job requires me to put my personal life aside. My gut tells me with Samantha's information, we can catch this creep and, hopefully, find Jaz. We're a team. Either you are with us—all of us, or you're not. It's your decision."
Allie dropped her eyes to the floor and then returned to her chair without uttering another word. A stillness enveloped the room until Garth nodded to Samantha. "Please continue, Sam."
Samantha took a deep breath and started once again. "In the film, the girl—"
Allie interrupted, quietly muttering, "The girl is my sister, Jaz."
"I don't believe it is, Allie." Sympathetic to her pain, Samantha paused and then said, "I know you think it's your sister, but I think it is an actress named Tiffany. who they tricked into playing the part of your sister."
"Allie, please let Sam tell us her plan, then we can discuss the pros and cons of everything." Garth looked at Allie, but she didn't answer; instead, she turned away from him without commenting.
"When I presented my client to James, I suggested a redhead. I was unaware of any information about you, your sister, or his interest in you. It was only a coincidence. Now, I believe whatever evil plans he had in mind for you changed when he realized he could kill two birds with one stone." Realizing her choice of words, she immediately added, "I'm sorry."
Garth nodded his affirmation. "He needs to find a redhead for Seeking Arrangements for Sugar Daddies, and he wants to find Allie. But how?"
"I've given him a deadline. He needs this prostitute in two days. My guess, since the script was at the murder, he is hoping when you look at the video the sheriff delivered, you will take the bait."
"I'll do it!" Allie stood near the chair. "I'm the one he wants."
"Are you crazy? I am not putting your life in danger at the hands of this maniac. We've already seen what he's capable of doing?" Garth crossed the room and stood in front of Allie. "He wants nothing more than to get his hands on you. Just look at how intricate his plans have been since Napa."
"If that's his plan and you send someone else, he'll try again. And he'll be furious. What will stop him from just shooting someone or killing Jaz if he hasn't already?"
"You aren't doing it, Allie." Garth shook his head. "I can't let you do it."
"I know you don't like the idea, Garth, but I think Allie has a point." Hank shook his head and continued, "This guy won't stop unless we stop him."
Tango frowned and spoke to his boss, "Hank's right, Garth. This guy is like a dog with a bone. He's determined to get what he wants."
"It's only a suggestion, but I can put pressure on him about the redhead. If he's cramped for time, he might get careless. Maybe he'll even tell me his plans, though that's a long shot. I'll tell him I want to see if his choice meets my client's approval. We might get a chance at knowing where he plans on grabbing her. Your entire team could stake out the place out." Samantha glanced at Allie, her eyes pleading with Allie to see she was trying to help, not hinder her sister's rescue."
"I don't know, Sam. It sounds risky."
"Riskier than sending me into prison? You didn't have any problem with that." Allie stood stone-faced, looking at Garth. "I'll do anything to save my sister even if I have to be this creep's bait." She brushed past Garth toward the balcony door and gazed at the stars, forming an idea in her mind.
She moved out of hearing distance and placed a phone call, spoke for a few minutes, and ended the call.
Indecisive, Garth stood in the doorway watching her. He wanted to wrap his arms around her and remove her from all of this, but he knew that was not an option for Allie. "Are you okay? I'm sorry I upset you, but I'm worried."
She turned from the railing and approached the man she hoped to spend the rest of her life with. There was no one she loved more except Jaz, of course. Garth needed to understand that Alyssa Shelton wouldn't take a back seat for anyone. She wouldn't sit by and watch. If Vito Moretti wanted a fight, she was ready to battle.
She wrapped her arms around Garth's waist, laying her head against his chest for a moment, before tilting her head to look into his eyes. Taking a deep breath, she spoke, "We are about to have company."
"What's going on?" Garth's anxiety was running rampant, and he fought to control himself. "Allie, who did you call?"
Allie was silent, gathering strength. She stepped backward and swallowed hard before answering. "The media. I won't hide. If he wants to find me, my face will be plastered across his television."
"Oh my God, Allie. Have you lost your mind?" Garth followed her across the front room toward their bedroom. A hush fell over the room as all eyes watched the drama unfolding in front of them.
"We'll have to discuss that probability later. Right now, I need to prepare for my interview." She turned toward the team and smiled, "Please excuse me," and then slammed the door in Garth's angry face.
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - (an imposter called James Carrington) and a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - Vito's childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously and joins into the con game Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and leads people to believe she suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Paul Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress Tiffany - an actress as a stand-in double for Jaz Lenny - an ex-con playing a stand-in double for Drake Lexington Drake Lexington - movie director and current lover of Jaz |
By Begin Again
Garth remained standing outside the bedroom door, trying to talk to Allie. With no response from her, he decided it wasn't safe for the team or Samantha to be here when the media arrived.
"I guess Allie took matters into her own hands and wants to talk to the media. It might be wise for all of us to clear out for a while. None of us need our faces broadcasted on television."
"I haven't heard from Marian, and I need to contact James, so I've got things to do. I'll get in touch with you as soon as I know anything."
"Sounds good, Sam. It's probably wiser to leave separately and use the back door. After this fiasco, I'll be looking for a new place tomorrow."
Everyone gathered their things and took turns following Sam's exit out the back door and down the stairs. Emmy and Hank left by the elevator, acting like a couple going out for the evening if anyone was watching. A couple of agents followed a few minutes later.
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - (an imposter called James Carrington) and a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - Vito's childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously and joins into the con game Marian Carrington - a star in her own mind and leads people to believe she suffers from dementia Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Paul Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress Tiffany - an actress as a stand-in double for Jaz Lenny - an ex-con playing a stand-in double for Drake Lexington Drake Lexington - movie director and current lover of Jaz Max Welcher - brother to the Sheriff Paul Welcher |
By Begin Again
"Miss Shelton, it's Felicia from Channel 34. We're all set and ready to go if you are."
Allie lifted her tear-stained eyes to meet Garth's and then closed them, letting her head fall against his chest. "I don't know what I thought when I made that call. I'm sorry, Garth. My impulsive anger got the best of me."
"I know, but they're here now. You've got to say something, or the reporters will draw their own conclusions." Garth squeezed her tight. "You can do this, Allie."
"But what do I say? I don't want to put Jaz or any of those girls in any worse danger, but I don't want people to believe my sister is a murderer either."
"He wants you to believe she did it, even though we know she didn't. I guess you should keep it short. Say something like you don't know all the facts yet, but you'll stand by her side and believe in her. Moretti can't know the truth, not yet."
Felicia tapped at the door again. "Miss Shelton, we are pressed for time. Are you about ready?"
Garth opened the door with Allie out of sight. The flash of cameras popped everywhere. He stepped out of everyone's view except Felicia. "Miss Shelton is overwhelmed and isn't feeling well. She will give a brief statement in a moment. In appreciation of your understanding, she promises you'll be the first to receive updates, Felicia." He closed the door before she could answer.
"Allie, make it short and sweet. Just make a plea for Jaz to surrender to the authorities so we can sort out this mix-up. Look at the cameras and talk directly to it as if Jaz was listening. Tell her you love her, and you can't wait to see her."
Allie wiped the smeared mascara from under her eyes. "Oh, Garth, I love her. I don't want anything to happen to her."
"Go out there and plead with Jaz to turn herself in. Tell her you believe in her innocence. And don't worry about the tears. The news reporters will eat it up. Now go!"
"You aren't coming with me?" Allie's eyes widened at the thought of going out there by herself.
"You'll be fine, Allie. Right now, if Moretti is watching, I don't want him to see my face. You can do it."
Allie nodded, kissed his cheek, and stepped out into the room full of flashing light bulbs. Garth leaned against the door and whispered a prayer.
*********************
Meanwhile, while Allie faced the cameras, Samantha placed another call to the mansion and waited for James to answer.
"Hello." His voice was unfriendly and uninviting.
Samantha could hear the anger in his snarled greeting and quickly rethought her planned approach regarding their client. Her voice changed to a pout. "Oh, James, you hurt my feelings. Don't you want to talk to little ole me?" She paused for a second, then added, "because I was looking forward to hearing your sexy voice."
"Samantha, I can hear the honey dripping from your mouth, but I'm a little busy at the moment."
"Ouch, too busy for me?" She shifted gears, turning all business. "Then how about our client? He wants an answer now, James. I can't stall him any longer. Do you have the girls or not?"
"I'm working on it." A second news bulletin with Allie's distraught face popped up on the TV screen as James answered Samantha. The reporter played a brief clip of Allie proclaiming her sister's innocence, promising to clear her name as quickly as possible.
Bourbon splashed everywhere as James's highball glass sailed through the air, shattering against the fireplace. "You, Bitch."
"Excuse me, but I hope I heard you wrong, James Carrington. No one calls me a bitch." Samantha's angry words splintered against his eardrum. "Maybe you aren't the man for the job."
"What? Bitch?" James stammered into the phone and then realized she'd heard his reply to Allie. "Oh, I'm sorry. I wasn't talking to you. It was this woman on television."
"You get that riled over someone on the news? Must have been important." Samantha questioned.
"Important, no, of course not. I lose my temper at stupidity." James took a deep breath to calm himself and then spoke to Samantha, "I've been extremely busy, Sam, but I promise I am working on the girl."
"If you're working on a job other than this million-dollar one, we can end our partnership here and now. I don't play second string to anyone, not even you."
"Never! You're always number one. As a matter of fact, I have the perfect girl in mind." Allie's face flashed across James's thoughts. "Tell your impatient client he will thank me for the wait when I make his dreams come true. I promise I will have his dream girls by tomorrow. Two days at the latest."
"You better not be toying with me." Samantha smiled. "The last guy who did is still regretting it. I left him naked and begging for help. As for you, James, I don't want to believe I chose the wrong man for the job, especially since I was considering offering you a bonus, if you know what I mean."
James could feel his mouth watering as he pictured getting his hands on Samantha's desirable body. He rubbed the growing lump pressing against his pants. His imagination went wild. He wanted her now and was willing to do anything to get what he wanted.
"You're making me crazy. Maybe we should finish talking business over a glass of wine." He wiped his mouth with a cocktail napkin. His breathing was rough.
"No sampling the merchandise before I know you can make good on our deal. You've never tasted what I can offer." Samantha lowered her voice to a sultry whisper. "I promise I'll have you begging for more."
She could hear his heavy breathing and knew he was hooked. "But first, I need to make sure we can satisfy our client. I want to see these girls."
"See them. Sure. I'll introduce you when we set up the mansion for their debut. I've got the perfect one-way mirror for our enjoyment."
"No, I want to know they're the cream of the crop before I put my career on the line."
James made a snap decision. "Sure, why not. We're partners, right?"
"We'll be more than that if you get this right. Imagine, James, you and me naked. I'm tied to the bed, waiting eagerly. You can do whatever you want. Or maybe I'll dance. Have you ever had a woman pleasure you while hanging from silk scarves? I promise you that and so much more." Samantha covered her mouth to quiet the gag.
"Tomorrow night, eight o'clock at Francine's. She'll be there."
"How can you be sure?"
"Trust me. I know this woman like the back of my hand. One call, and I promise she'll do whatever I ask. Besides, she owes me big time."
Samantha inhaled and let the air out slowly. He'd latched onto the bait and wasn't letting go. "Tomorrow night at Francine's. I can't wait."
"I might be more excited than you. It's going to be a real special night, so I better get to work right now to make it happen. Keep thinking those thoughts, Sam. You are going to be the cherry on the whipping cream."
"Goodnight, James. I am looking forward to it." Samantha disconnected the call, grabbing a paper bag, as her stomach revolted against thoughts of the most disgusting man ever coming near her or any other woman again.
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - (an imposter called James Carrington) and a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - Vito's childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously and joins into the con game Marian Carrington - the wife -a star in her own mind and leads people to believe she suffers from dementia (actually the sister of the deceased James Carrington and an undercover FBI agent) Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Paul Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur (also, an undercover FBI agent) Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress Tiffany - an actress as a stand-in double for Jaz Lenny - an ex-con playing a stand-in double for Drake Lexington Drake Lexington - movie director and current lover of Jaz Max Welcher - brother to the Sheriff Paul Welcher |
By Begin Again
Cheryl tapped twice on Marian's bedroom door and then twice again, signaling that it was her and not one of the others. She carried a dinner tray for Marian and a shopping bag filled with non-perishable snack items from the kitchen pantry.
Marian rushed to open the door and let Cheryl into the room. It was dangerous for any of them to wander the halls, but it was necessary to make things appear normal as well.
"I told Charles you weren't feeling well, and I was going to get you to eat something in your room. He said he'd tell James after finishing an errand in the East Wing. And I overheard James in the study telling someone something was happening tomorrow night at Francine's. I was afraid to listen any longer. I'm sorry I didn't get more information, Marian."
"No need to be sorry, Cheryl. I prefer you stay safe. These are not the kind of men you or I usually associate with. They are very dangerous."
"Do you want me to take the food to Tiffany and stay with her? I know she's terrified of being there alone."
"I feel bad for her, but she's safer there than here with us. I think you need to remain here with me. We don't want James or Charles to get suspicious of anything. We need an escape plan. Maybe tomorrow, when he goes to Francine's, we will make our escape."
"But what about Charles? And are we going to leave the other girls behind? That would be dreadful, Marian. You know what would happen to them." Cheryl fought back her tears. "We can't leave them."
"Now, don't start crying, Cheryl. I depend on you to help me. Let me think about it some more. I don't want to leave anyone behind either, but we do not know how many are here or exactly where they are. Maybe I can walk the passages and see if I can find anyone."
"Oh, dear, no! I don't want you risking your life, either. It's all so dreadful, Marian."
"I know. You go to Tiffany, but hurry back. I'll think about what we can do." After Cheryl disappeared, Marian listened at her door before entering the makeup room to make a call.
| Author Notes |
Characters: Vito Moretti - (an imposter called James Carrington) and a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - Vito's childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously and joins into the con game Marian Carrington - the wife -a star in her own mind and leads people to believe she suffers from dementia (actually the sister of the deceased James Carrington and an undercover FBI agent) Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Paul Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur (also, an undercover FBI agent) Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress Tiffany - an actress as a stand-in double for Jaz Lenny - an ex-con playing a stand-in double for Drake Lexington Drake Lexington - movie director and current lover of Jaz Max Welcher - brother to the Sheriff Paul Welcher |
By Begin Again
Warning: The author has noted that this contains the highest level of sexual content.
James felt confident and in control as he’d talked to Allie, but he was reeling with anger and vengeance inside. For eight long years, sitting in a prison cell, he couldn’t think of anything else but his revenge on the upstart reporter. James recalled their first interview. She entered the interrogation room with her do-gooder, save the world attitude. The sparks of determination in her eyes to prove she’d scraped the bottom of the barrel and exposed the epitome of cruel, lowlife mentality still haunted him.
James had spent thousands of hours imagining each time he dropped a clue, each time she’d be exposed to her sister’s potential death. He wanted the prolonged fate of Jaz to be unmerciful and whittle away at Allie’s composure. Like a mad scientist, James imagined acid burning her heart and soul, one drop at a time.
James recognized the spitfire attitude when she spoke to him, but he could also hear the quiver in her voice, faintly, but it was there. He’d hoped she would beg for Jaz’s life, but in the end, even that wasn’t enough satisfaction. He felt deprived.
He hadn’t expected Allie’s sassy attitude. He wanted her to be afraid for her sister’s life. He’d expected more satisfaction; instead, he felt deprived.
Opening the liquor cabinet, he chose a bottle of Jameson's Irish Whiskey and filled his glass. Skipping his usual slow sips, he threw his head back and swallowed until the glass was empty. The burn in his throat made him choke, but the heat in his stomach was satisfying. He poured another and raised it in the air. "To the glory of payback. I will achieve my vengeance." His sick desires manifested into a volcano as he finished another glass. He needed a woman and wanted her now.
Taking the bottle of whiskey and glass with him, he climbed the stairs, mulling over the juicy choices that awaited him. Would it be his fictitious wife or maybe one of the fresh new bodies who did not know what awaited them in their future? At the top of the stairs, he stopped. He pondered the West Wing or the East Wing, knowing in the end, only one would suffice tonight.
A malicious grin covered his face as he headed toward his destination.
************
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - (an imposter called James Carrington) and a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - Vito's childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously and joins into the con game Marian Carrington - the wife -a star in her own mind and leads people to believe she suffers from dementia (actually the sister of the deceased James Carrington and an undercover FBI agent) Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Paul Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur (also, an undercover FBI agent) Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress Tiffany - an actress as a stand-in double for Jaz Lenny - an ex-con playing a stand-in double for Drake Lexington Drake Lexington - movie director and current lover of Jaz Max Welcher - brother to the Sheriff Paul Welcher |
By Begin Again
Warning: The author has noted that this contains the highest level of sexual content.
"Cheryl, we can't give James or Charles a reason to get suspicious. You'll need to go downstairs and get lunch like you always do."
Cheryl's eyes pleaded with Marian. "But they terrify me. I don't know how much longer I can keep this facade up." Tears cascaded down Cheryl's cheeks, and she swatted them away with the back of her hand.
Marian crossed the room and grabbed her friend's hands. "You can do this." She glimpsed Samantha's car pulling into the driveway through her bedroom window. "Cheryl, just try to stay strong one more day, and I promise we'll get out of this mess." Cheryl offered a limp smile. "That's my girl. Now, gather us some lunch. I've got some things to take care of first, so I'll ring when I want you to come back."
"Oh, Marian, you frighten me. What are you going to do?"
"I don't need you to worry about me. I'll be careful." Marian hugged her. "Now, you go, and I'll let you know when I need you."
As soon as Cheryl left the room, Marian locked the door and headed for the make-up room. She hoped to catch a moment with Samantha in the garden.
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - (an imposter called James Carrington) and a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - Vito's childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously and joins into the con game Marian Carrington - the wife -a star in her own mind and leads people to believe she suffers from dementia (actually the sister of the deceased James Carrington and an undercover FBI agent) Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Paul Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur (also, an undercover FBI agent) Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress Tiffany - an actress as a stand-in double for Jaz Lenny - an ex-con playing a stand-in double for Drake Lexington Drake Lexington - movie director and current lover of Jaz Max Welcher - brother to the Sheriff Paul Welcher |
By Begin Again
By the time James reached the staircase, Marian was sitting up, surrounded by an array of colorful pillows. Cheryl was hovering over her with bottled water and a fan. Charles towered above the ladies, frowning. James's plan was in motion, but Marian could be a problem.
"Darling, what happened? Are you okay?" James wore his fake concern well as he dropped to his knees at Marian's side. He lifted her hand to his lips. "I'd be devastated if you were hurt." He turned and met Charles's stare. "Maybe we should call a doctor. He could give her a sedative, so she'd rest throughout the night."
Cheryl's eyes darted to Marian's and then to James. "Sir, I believe we have some in Lady Marian's medicine cabinet from the last time the doctor visited. You and Charles seem so busy today. Maybe I could give her one of those and stay by her side. It's probably just the heat."
Marian turned toward Cheryl and took the fan. "Yes, James, you know how I can't tolerate the heat. I must have fainted." She mustered a weak-looking smile. "Cheryl's right. You and Charles have things to do. And all I need is rest." She reached forward and took his hand. "Cheryl will give me the sedative, and I'll be fine. I don't want to be a bother, darling."
"You're never a bother, my dear." He kissed her hand again.
Appalled by his friend's performance of the doting husband, Charles interrupted them, "It sounds like a good idea, James. We are behind schedule if you are planning to wrap this up today."
James pretended to mull the options over in his head and finally decided. "Okay, Cheryl and I will get her situated upstairs. You check on Lenny. Make sure he knows what to do. We won't get a second chance."
"Sounds like a plan. I'll tell Lenny he needs to be in town by seven if that works for you."
"Yes, that's fine." He lifted Marian's limp body. "Can you put your arms around my neck, dear? I wouldn't want to drop you."
Marian wrapped her arms around him and lay her head against his chest as he climbed the stairs and headed for her bedroom in the West wing.
**************
| Author Notes |
Characters: Vito Moretti - (an imposter called James Carrington) and a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - Vito's childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously and joins into the con game Marian Carrington - the wife -a star in her own mind and leads people to believe she suffers from dementia (actually the sister of the deceased James Carrington and an undercover FBI agent) Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Paul Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur (also, an undercover FBI agent) Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress Tiffany - an actress as a stand-in double for Jaz Lenny - an ex-con playing a stand-in double for Drake Lexington Drake Lexington - movie director and current lover of Jaz Max Welcher - brother to the Sheriff Paul Welcher |
By Begin Again
Tommy hid behind the dumpster, praying Tango would answer his phone. He exhaled a long, nervous breath when he heard the voice mail answer. "Dang, where are you, Tango? I'm on the job, man. I've got important information."
Tommy ran his fingers through his hair as he paced, staring at the phone in his hand. Realizing his mistake, he verbally chastised himself. "Boy, where'd you leave your brains? You should have left a message or told him to call back asap." As he was about to redial, his phone rang, and he spun around as if someone had touched him, answering, "Hello. Who's this?"
Tango laughed. "Do you always answer your phone that way, kid?"
Recognizing Tango's voice, Tommy recovered and laughed off his embarrassment. It's Tommy from Francine's. How d'you know I called?"
"I've got a special 007 phone. It traces every call I get." Tango struggled to contain his amusement.
"Really? That's outstanding."
"Just joking with you." Tango laughed, "I hit missed call and dialed your number."
"Oh, yeah, I knew that. You got me flustered for a moment. I've got some important information for you."
Oh, yeah. What's up?" Tango hoped it was about Moretti.
Tommy didn't disappoint him. "The director guy with the snake ring is in the house tonight. He had me set up a table near the window, exactly like the one from the first night. You know, with the wine and roses. Later, he walked by the table and left an envelope. Oh yeah, and now he's drinking at the bar."
"You did great, kid. I have to let you go, though, because I need to contact my boss. I'll talk to you later, but thanks for the help." Tango was about to hang up but quickly added, "You're going to make a brilliant agent someday. Keep up the good work."
Tommy shoved his cell in his pocket, straightened his apron, and, feeling ten feet high, went back into the restaurant to monitor his perp. As he passed a mirror in the back room, he stopped, brushed his hair, and smiled. "Special Agent Tommy Griffin at your service." Then, looking around the room, he added, "That's top-secret for now. I'm undercover."
The dishwasher stuck his head through the swinging door and yelled, "Tommy, the cooks looking for you."
Tommy smiled at his reflection and then dashed into the kitchen, back to his undercover work.
*************
Hank laughed as he and Emmy entered the restaurant. "My, my, we've certainly slipped since we came to Savannah, having to enter through the back door."
"Stop it, Hank. You know it's merely a precaution, so we don't draw attention. We've got a booth in a far corner so we can observe what's happening."
"Don't get so testy, darling. I was teasing you. It's kind of nice to enter a restaurant in jeans and a polo shirt. That way, I don't have to worry about dropping the marinara sauce on me. I'll fit in nicely."
Emmy and Hank slid into the booth and immediately surveyed the restaurant. Emmy gasped, "Hank, that table by the window is exactly like the video in Napa."
"Yeah, I see it. But where's the rest of the players?"
"I believe I recognize Moretti at the bar. At least he looks like the guy in Sam's pictures." Emmy slipped a photograph out of her clutch and glanced at it. "Yeah, that's him near the end of the bar, close to the door."
"Speaking of Sam, she just walked in, and she's walking directly toward him. I didn't know she was meeting Moretti. Did someone get their wires crossed?"
"I don't know about that, but that red dress is a beauty. Sam's got it all going on tonight."
"Well, I hope she isn't playing on both sides of the fence. She could get caught up in the game if she's not careful."
"Maybe we should let Garth know what's going on in here. I don't see Allie yet."
"There she is. The host is directing her to the table at the window. Call Garth, right now, Hank. What if he is setting her up to shoot her like in Napa."
Hank left the table and stepped outside, quickly taking inventory of the surrounding people. One man stood out in the crowd. He reminded Hank of Humphrey Bogart with his fedora tipped down over his eyes and a cigarette hanging from his lips. He dialed Garth, who answered on the first ring.
"What's happening, Hank? I don't like being out here in the dark, but if Moretti sees me, it's over."
"Okay, here's what I see going on. Allie is sitting at an identical table as you two were at in Napa."
"Oh hell no. She's a sitting duck. Get her out of there, Hank."
"Listen, Moretti's at the bar with Sam. She's a real stunner in a tight red dress that molds every curve. I'm not sure what's going down between the two of them. Emmy's inside watching them. I'm standing outside, and right now, the only questionable person is a guy reminding me of Bogart and Hepburn. Why don't you get a few of your guys up on the rooftops?"
"Yeah, a couple of sharpshooters surveying from up top. I've also got a couple of agents dressed like ladies looking to have a good time. Maybe they can mingle around outside."
"I want to get back inside with Emmy and where I can see Allie. I'll let you know any developments."
"Thanks, Hank."
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - (an imposter called James Carrington) and a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - Vito's childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously and joins into the con game Marian Carrington - the wife -a star in her own mind and leads people to believe she suffers from dementia (actually the sister of the deceased James Carrington and an undercover FBI agent) Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Paul Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur (also, an undercover FBI agent) Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress Tiffany - an actress as a stand-in double for Jaz Lenny - an ex-con playing a stand-in double for Drake Lexington Drake Lexington - movie director and current lover of Jaz Max Welcher - brother to the Sheriff Paul Welcher |
By Begin Again
When the Hostess led Allie to the table by the window, her knees threatened to buckle beneath her. She reached out and steadied herself with the table.
"Are you alright, ma'am? It looked like you were going to faint."
Allie turned and smiled at the young woman. "Oh no, sweetie. I should have eaten something this afternoon." Allie lied through her teeth. "It happens when you have diabetes."
"Oh no, should I bring you something? Orange juice, crackers, or maybe some candy?" The woman's eyes widened. "Are you going to be okay?"
"I have some in my bag." Allie opened her purse, saw a cough drop, and gave it a little wave. "See, all good."
"Great. Just let me know if you need anything. I'll be right over there by the bar."
Allie looked in the direction the woman pointed. Her fingers tightened on the edge of the chair, preventing her from falling on the floor. Samantha, looking dynamite in sequins, and Vito Moretti, more distinguished than she remembered, were seated at the bar, sampling the appetizers and sipping drinks. Unable to comprehend Samantha's flirty behavior, she forced herself to look away. Allie swallowed and managed a soft "thank you" to the Hostess.
She stopped a busboy as he passed her table. "May I have a glass of water, please?"
"Sure." He glanced at her table. "I'd be happy to open your bottle of wine?"
"No, thank you. Just water for now, if you don't mind." He nodded and hurried away, returning immediately with the glass of water. "Anything else?"
"No, thank you. My date is stylishly late, but I'm sure he'll be here soon." Allie did not know what the plan would be, but she didn't want to be sitting in the window for everyone to see. Her fingers squeezed a charm on her bracelet before she raised the glass of water to her lips.
She whispered, "Garth, can you hear me?" When he didn't respond, she turned toward the window and spoke a decibel louder, "Garth?"
"I'm here, Allie. Everything okay?"
She hissed, "No. I'm on display in the window, and Samantha is oozing honey all over our guy."
"Calm down. It's under control. We have people everywhere. Hank and Emmy are nearby. We have snipers on the rooftop."
"Snipers? You think you'll need them?" Allie shivered and glanced toward the happy couple at the bar. "What's Sam doing? Are you sure we can trust her?" Her thoughts were bouncing off her brain, one after another.
"I will not let anything happen to you, so I am overdoing, I suppose. You know me when it comes to the woman I love. We've got this, Allie. It'll soon be over, and we'll go home."
"I love you." Allie shivered. "I better stop talking. Don't get jealous, but a nicely dressed man is walking my way."
A handsome gentleman looked in her direction, smiled, and then stopped to talk to two young women at a nearby table. Their giddy laughter filled the room, and one patted the chair next to her, offering him a place to sit. His eye shifted to Allie, and he winked before declining the other woman's invitation.
As he moved closer to Allie, she evaluated him. He was muscular, held his head high, and added a touch of swagger to his step. She thought of a model's runway as he almost seemed to glide between the tables. Not wanting to stare, she examined the wine label as he came to a stop at her table.
His voice was smooth. "I'd be happy to share that bottle of wine with you. A beautiful woman like you shouldn't be sitting alone."
Allie raised her eyes to meet his and felt a chill run down her spine. "I'm waiting for someone."
He picked up her hand and raised it to his lips, never taking his eyes off her. "Oh, that's too bad. I was already fantasizing about our evening together." He hesitated and then smiled, "Maybe another time." Breathless, Allie watched as he circled the room and disappeared into the crowded bar.
Garth's voice in her ear shocked her back to reality. "Allie, are you okay? Hank says a guy talked to you and left. What did he say?"
"Yeah, he said he wanted to share my wine because a beautiful woman shouldn't drink alone."
"He's right, but he better stay away from my beautiful woman. Tell him to go find his own."
Allie giggled. "Do you think Moretti is toying with us? He seems to be enjoying himself with Sam while I am sweating bullets."
"I guess while he's in plain sight, we don't need to worry about him. Wait it out and see what happens."
"Easy for you to say. You're not the sitting duck."
"I know, and I'm sorry, but it's his rules at the moment." Allie could hear the gruffness in Garth's tight throat. She hadn't expected him to be nervous.
"A server is approaching. Maybe this is it."
"Excuse me, Miss, but a gentleman asked me to bring you this drink." Allie looked at the cocktail glass, a martini straight up. Fighting to control herself, Allie looked around. The stranger was gone. The server added, "And this note, too."
Allie thanked him and waited for him to leave before examining the folded note. She stared at the drink; a Dirty Martini with two olives and a lemon twist. It was Jaz's favorite. Allie opened the message and read, "Enjoy your drink and then meet me in the park by the fountain."
"He's playing games with us, Garth. This maniac will not attack me in public. He's trying to drive me crazy."
"We've got to play it out. If he comes, the team's ready. You won't be alone."
Allie tossed the twenty-dollar bill Garth had given her onto the table and moved toward the exit. Her eyes shifted back and forth, searching for the stranger. As she passed Sam and Vito, neither seemed to notice.
"I think this guy is standing under the street light. I am going to stop and ask him to light my cigarette."
"Allie, do you have to play with fire? Only seconds ago, you said nothing was going to happen." Garth sighed. "Give me a minute to alert everyone, okay?" Garth radioed everyone that Allie was on the move, and she'd be talking to a stranger under the street lamp. "The ball is in your court, Allie. You don't have to do this, though."
"Yes, I do. I can't keep playing these cat and mouse games. He's got my sister, and we have to stop him. And now I am shutting this thing off. Wish me luck."
Allie had bummed a cigarette from one of the crew members, just in case she needed it as a prop. Allie didn't smoke and wasn't sure she could even light it, but she was fresh out of ideas on how to approach her stranger. She rummaged through her purse, looked around, and then slowly walked toward him.
She sensed his eyes watching her from beneath the brim of his fedora. He smiled as she stopped in front of him.
"You didn't need that cigarette to talk to me, you know. What happened to the date?"
"He got held up at work. It's okay. It's a pleasant night to take a stroll through the park and then head home. There's a full moon, and it's a shame to waste it."
"It's not safe for a beautiful woman like yourself to be walking in the park alone. One never knows who they might meet." He laughed and dropped his cigarette butt on the ground, grinding it out with the tip of his shoe. "It was nice talking to you." He tipped the brim of his hat and walked toward the restaurant.
It wasn't what she'd expected, and for a moment, she stared at his back in shock. Then it happened. He stopped about twenty feet away, did a half-turn toward her, and touched the brim of his hat with his hand. "See you around."
Allie didn't know his plan, but she set hers in motion. Her heels tapped the sidewalk as she walked into the park. She was confident he would follow, and the team would have their man. She could feel her adrenalin building as she neared the fountain. Searching her purse, she found a handful of coins but paused before leaning over the railing. She knew he'd make his move when she was off-balance and vulnerable. Her dress was tight, and she shimmied as she lifted it, making it easier to bend and the view from behind far more revealing.
She bent over the railing and leaned forward, counting, "Three, two, one." As if it was planned, she felt his strong arms encircle her waist as he spun her around, passionately locking his lips against hers.
The concealed spotlights in the surrounding bushes lit up the entire park as if it was daylight. Allie stood wrapped in the stranger's arms, surrounded by the FBI team, their guns pointed at them.
Garth raced across the grass, yanking the man's arms away from Allie, "Get your hands off her and drop to your knees." Garth gave him a shove when he didn't respond as fast as expected. "On the ground."
"Hey, when they hired me, nobody said anything about getting roughed up. Those guns look mighty realistic."
Allie shook her head. "What kind of abductor are you?"
"Abductor? Lady, I'm an actor. My agent set this up, and they paid me $3000 to approach you in the restaurant and then again in the park."
"You expect me to believe you? I sure as hell don't see a film crew. Are they invisible aliens?" Tango laughed and then frisked him, pulling a license and some cards from his wallet. "His name is Bernard Overdeen, and he has an Actor's Guild card."
"I don't care what he's got. He's under arrest for attempted kidnapping."
"What? Kidnapping? Wait! You've got this all wrong." Bernard was frantic. "You gotta believe me. The cameras are in the trees. The guy said it was supposed to look more realistic that way." Everyone looked up into the trees.
Garth's phone rang, and he answered, "Hank, we've got the guy, but he says he was hired to do some acting gig. Nothing is making any sense."
"Well, we've got more problems. Vito just walked out of here with Samantha on his arm, and they looked mighty cozy."
"Poppa, get upfront. Hank says Vito just left with Sam. I've got questions, and I better get some answers." Garth looked like a raging bull when he turned to the perp. "I'm starting with you, and it better be good."
From the corner of his eye, he caught a glimpse of Sheriff Welcher on his phone near the park entrance. Garth growled, "What's that son of a bitch doing here?" He nodded toward the sheriff. "Tango, take over. There's been a change of plans."
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - (an imposter called James Carrington) and a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - Vito's childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously and joins into the con game Marian Carrington - the wife -a star in her own mind and leads people to believe she suffers from dementia (actually the sister of the deceased James Carrington and an undercover FBI agent) Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Paul Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur (also, an undercover FBI agent) Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress Tiffany - an actress as a stand-in double for Jaz Lenny - an ex-con playing a stand-in double for Drake Lexington Drake Lexington - movie director and current lover of Jaz Max Welcher - brother to the Sheriff Paul Welcher |
By Begin Again
Sheriff Welcher saw Garth approaching. He ended his call and took a long puff on his Cuban cigar, glaring at the FBI agents and the activity in the park.
"Sheriff, what a surprise. News travels fast in Savannah." Garth didn't smile or offer a handshake.
"What do you mean? I was cruising the streets and saw the bright lights. What's all the commotion?"
"Oh, nothing. Some director was filming in the park, and wouldn't you know it; my team walked right into the middle of it."
"Filming, huh?" Welcher chewed the end of his cigar, glancing toward the patrons outside the restaurant and then at Garth.
"Yeah, just an unfortunate mix-up. You are welcome to take over. There's going to be a lot of paperwork, I suppose."
"I'm good. It looks like you've got it under control. Have an enjoyable night." Welcher swaggered to his cruiser, chuckling under his breath. He smashed his cigar on the pavement and cheerfully climbed into the vehicle. "A little egg on the FBI's face warms my heart."
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - (an imposter called James Carrington) and a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - Vito's childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously and joins into the con game Marian Carrington - the wife -a star in her own mind and leads people to believe she suffers from dementia (actually the sister of the deceased James Carrington and an undercover FBI agent) Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Paul Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur (also, an undercover FBI agent) Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress Tiffany - an actress as a stand-in double for Jaz Lenny - an ex-con playing a stand-in double for Drake Lexington Drake Lexington - movie director and current lover of Jaz Max Welcher - brother to the Sheriff Paul Welcher |
By Begin Again
"Hank, where do you think Vito took Sam? The creep has to know that we saw him in the restaurant, and they left together." Emmy clung to Hank's hand as he drove.
"I can't believe he set us all up and got away with it. While everyone's watching Allie, he's dipping out the door with Sam in tow. If something happens to that girl—"
"Hank, it's not your fault. How could we have known the creep was on to Sam? She must not have had any idea, or she certainly would have told someone."
"Garth told Max to get all the girls and Marian out of harm's way. I guess with this guy; we have to deal with one puzzle piece at a time."
"The silver lining, if you can say that, is they can get Jaz and the rest out of the mansion without having to deal with Charles."
"But my mind can't get off the question of where is he. Why did he leave the mansion?"
"That's a good question. I don't think anyone saw Charles near the restaurant, or else I'd say he was helping grab Sam."
Hank turned on his left blinker and maneuvered the Mercedes into the turning lane. Emmy gave him a quizzical look. "You must be tired."
Hank turned his head to look at his wife while they waited for the light to turn green. "Why do you say that, my love?"
"Because our place is in the opposite direction. Are you taking the scenic way home because this body wants to find the bed?"
Hank squeezed Emmy's hand and then raised it to his lips, kissing her fingers. "I'm just not comfortable about tonight. I thought how crazy I'd be if it were you in this situation instead of Allie. Garth can't leave the scene, but part of him has got to be worrying about her."
"You're right, but she has Agent Williams with her. I'm sure he must be good, or Garth wouldn't have trusted Allie with him. You're such a worrywart when it comes to the women in your life, but that's part of the reason I love you so much."
"If you don't mind, I'd like to take a minor detour and drive-by Garth and Allie's place. It will only take about ten minutes."
Emmy rolled her eyes and laughed at her husband. "You've already decided, so I might as well sit back and enjoy the view. We should have gotten a place out of the city limits as well. The trees are so beautiful, and we can see glimpses of the ocean inlets."
"I'm going to make it worth your while and buy dessert. I saw a little ice cream shop when I left Garth's place the other day. We can stop there. Might even buy you a double scoop."
'Okay, big spender, you talked me into it." Emmy relaxed against the seat, looking out the side window when she saw a vehicle in the ditch. She screamed, "Hank, stop the car. Someone's had an accident."
Hank pulled off the road and put the car in park. "Where? I don't see anything?"
"Back up. I know I saw a car in the trees. One of the car doors was open. Maybe someone is hurt." Emmy was already hanging out her window, trying to see in the dark.
"Emmy, get your head back inside the car. I'll back up till you see the vehicle. Maybe someone's just parked there. You know we might interrupt something. I don't want to get shot."
"If it is, I'll apologize to them, but it looked more like a car had run off the road."
Hank checked his rearview mirror and then put the car in reverse, inching backward.
"You see anything?" A car whizzed by the Mercedes and honked. "You're going to have us in an accident, Emmy. There's nothing there."
"I know I saw it, Hank. Just go another fifty feet, please." Before her husband could answer, Emmy waved her arms out the window, pointing. "There it is, Hank. Hurry, they might be hurt."
***********
Hank moaned as he pulled himself from the car; first, he'd raced after Vito with Poppa, and now he was walking along the roadside in the dark with his wife. He muttered, "I think all of you are trying to kill me."
"Oh, Hank, it's not that bad. Come on." Emmy hurried down the hill toward the vehicle while Hank descended at a much slower pace.
Hank yelled at her to wait for him, but she rushed to the car without answering. And then she screamed, "Oh my God, Hank. There's blood everywhere. The driver's been shot and barely breathing."
Hank removed his gun from the holster and spun in a circle, surveying the area. "Emmy, get back away from the car and call 911." As he moved closer to the vehicle, he couldn't see the license plate, but he didn't like what he was seeing. The first glimpse of the driver confirmed his worst nightmare.
"Emmy, it's Williams. It looks like someone ran them off the road."
"The ambulance is on its way. But why did he leave Allie alone at the apartment? Wasn't he supposed to stay?" Reality hit Emmy like a steam engine. Her legs buckled, and Hank grabbed her before she hit the ground.
Her lips moved, but the words wouldn't come out. She tried again. "Hank--where's Allie--if--if that's her driver?"
Hank shook his head. "I don't know, but we've got to call Garth."
He could hear the sirens in the distance as he reached for his cell. Instead of calling Garth, he tried Tango first.
Tango answered on the second ring, "Hey, man, I thought you'd be hugging your pillow by now. What's happening?"
"Tango, are you with Garth?" A bitter taste filled Hank's mouth. This was the last message he wanted to deliver to anyone, especially his good friend.
The agent heard an unfamiliar quiver in his friend's voice. "Hank, you all right?"
"There's been an accident."
"Oh man, are you and Emmy okay? Where you at?"
"Emmy and I are fine. Emmy spotted the car down the ravine by the trees, and we stopped. It's Agent Williams's vehicle. He's shot, and it looks bad."
"What about Allie?" The words were barely off Tango's lips when Garth echoed them.
"Who you talking to, Tango? What about Allie?"
Tango couldn't answer, so he handed the phone to his boss. "It's Hank."
Garth snatched the phone from Tango's fingers, growling into it, "Hank, what the hell's going on?"
"Williams is shot, and Allie's missing. We found the car about two miles from your place. The ambulance—"
"Hank, it's Tango. Garth took off like a bullet, and he's headed to you. Did you say an ambulance is on its way? I'll send the team, but did you see any evidence?"
"The ambulance is here, loading Williams into it." Hank stared at the limp body on the gurney as the EMTs lifted it into their vehicle.
Emmy walked toward Hank. "There are tire marks, part of a bumper, and I think a piece of a red fender. I didn't want to walk around until the team got here, but I am pretty sure Allie was yanked from the car, kicking and screaming. One of her shoes is in the car; the other is about four feet outside. Her dress tore on the door frame. Her purse fell open, and everything's scattered in the grass and mud."
"Poppa can finish up here, and I'm on my way with the team. Look out for low flying rockets because it's most likely the boss."
"He's making a rough landing as we speak. See you when you get here, Tango." Hank hung up and pulled Emmy closer to his side. "Prepare yourself, babe. He's coming in hot."
| Author Notes |
Characters: Vito Moretti - (an imposter called James Carrington) and a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - Vito's childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously and joins into the con game Marian Carrington - the wife -a star in her own mind and leads people to believe she suffers from dementia (actually the sister of the deceased James Carrington and an undercover FBI agent) Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Paul Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur (also, an undercover FBI agent) Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress Tiffany - an actress as a stand-in double for Jaz Lenny - an ex-con playing a stand-in double for Drake Lexington Drake Lexington - movie director and current lover of Jaz Max Welcher - brother to the Sheriff Paul Welcher |
By Begin Again
Max and Marian hurried through the secret passageway toward Jaz's room. The inner halls gave them the confidence to achieve their plan and slip away without interference by James or Charles. Still, there was always the chance they'd be seen or heard.
As they approached, they slowed their pace, creeping, not knowing if Charles might have returned. Marian pressed her ear to the panel and listened.
Touching her lips with her finger, Marian whispered, "Shhh."
Max stopped and listened. He nodded, showing he heard something, too. "Maybe a guard. Or Charles could have returned. Vito hasn't had time to get back to the island if that's his plan."
"If?" Marian wrinkled her brows. "Do you think he—" She shivered. "Sam's okay, right?"
"I don't know, babe. But right now, we are wasting time wondering about those guys. Crack the panel. See if anyone else is in there besides Jaz. We've got to get the girls out of the mansion."
Marian knelt on the floor and edged the secret panel open, making a small slit. Her eyes darted around the room, but she saw no one except Jaz on the bed.
"I think it was Jaz."
Max helped her up from the floor. "I'm going first, just in case we've got company. Let's grab her and explain later, okay?"
Marian pressed against the wall and let Max slide in front of her. He took one last look at her and pushed the panel, rushing to the bed with Marian directly behind him.
Jaz tried to scream, but he covered her mouth, shaking his head. Marian whispered, "We're here to rescue you, but we have little time. Follow us through the passageway and be as quiet as you can. Do you understand?"
Jaz nodded, and Max removed his hand. "Will you be able to walk after I get these ropes off you, or do you need me to carry you?" The rope burns on her wrists and ankles were raw from her struggles to get loose.
"I'm weak." Tears glistened in her eyes. "But I think I can walk. Is it far?"
Marian searched the room for clothes, not finding a shred of clothing. She swallowed hard, thinking of how degraded and vulnerable Jaz must feel, lying here for days, naked and exposed. She pulled the blanket off the bed and wrapped it around Jaz. "I'm sorry, but this will have to do."
Max slipped off his shirt and handed it to Marian. "This might help." Gratitude flashed in Jaz's eyes, but fear quickly returned.
Marian's eyes warmed. "Thanks, my love. Grab the sheet. Jaz can make a skirt. It will be easier for her to move."
He smiled at Jaz and handed her the silk sheet. "It's going to be okay." Turning to Marian, he pointed toward the open panel. "Marian, you lead the way, and I'll let Jaz lean against me if she can't make it. Let's go."
The two women stepped into the hall, listened, and moved forward a few steps. Max pulled the panel shut behind him. "No sense showing anyone how she escaped. They'll find out soon enough."
By placing her hands against the walls, Jaz kept pace with Marian. The trio was soon in the sanctuary where Cheryl and the other girls waited.
Max offered a few instructions. "Watch out for the trap door and gather close. Marian's going to show you the way. If we stay together, you won't get lost. We're going through a dark tunnel leading into the woods and a hidden pier. There will be two boats with Navy Seals waiting for you." Max surveyed the women and was proud to see they all wore their best fighting faces, not one tear in sight. "Okay, girls, you'll be safe in just a few."
There wasn't electricity in the tunnel, so they depended on Marian's flashlight and stayed close together. Walking single file, the group shuffled through the strange hall and into the tunnel, keeping their fears in check.
***************
Max felt his phone vibrate and stopped to answer it only steps from their exit while everyone else continued making their way through the darkness.
"Hey, Cap, we're almost there. The girls are just ahead of me."
"Stop them, Max! I can see another boat coming in our direction with the lights off. We've cut the engines. The camouflage covers our boats, but we don't want to take chances."
"Could it be Harbor Patrol on a silent run?"
"No, I've got them on alert. It's someone who doesn't want to be noticed. The boat is running on the low throttle."
"Okay, I need to catch up with Marian and keep the girls out of sight. Give two quick flashes when it's safe." Max ended the call and ran through the darkness. Luckily, he could see the women huddled together near the opening. As expected, an exhausted Jaz had fallen.
Marian was on the ground, checking Jaz for injuries. "I think she's okay, except the rocks are ripping her feet apart. Once we clear the tunnel, two of us can help her walk."
"Listen to me. The Seals say we have company. We're only fifty feet from the boats, but we can't take a chance. We'll wait at the tunnel opening. There's some tall grass and trees you can hide behind. Make sure you are as quiet as possible."
Salty sea air mixed with the dampness of the musty walls wafted across their nostrils. In the dark, they could see the moonlight on the water.
"This is your last hurdle, girls. You can do this." Marian directed them into the grasses. "Squat down and try not to make any noise. Hopefully, the boat passes by us."
From Max's vantage point, he could hear the low rumble of the approaching boat engine. The craft was inching slowly to the mansion's dock, about seventy-five feet north of where the girls were hiding.
Charles stood at the helm, slowly easing the boat dockside. The hairs on the back of Max's neck bristled when he recognized Charles. Allie was not visible.
Charles dropped anchor, tied the rope to the dock post, and moved to the stern. Seconds later, he stepped onto the dock, carrying a woman. She hung lifelessly from his arms, confirming Max's fears; if he had Allie, she was unconscious.
Charles did not possess strength like Vito, so he weaved back and forth as he carried Allie to the mansion. Unlike the straight underground tunnel, the wooden ramp was uphill and had twists and sharp turns to avoid the massive boulders along the way.
**************
Without a word to Marian or the girls, Max edged his way back into the tunnel and returned to the sanctuary they'd left moments ago. He hoped he could beat Charles to the house and notify people, but Max needed reception for his cell phone to do that.
He avoided the trap door as he rushed through the sanctuary. His first stop was Marian's room. He checked to see the door locked before calling his father. He would leave the follow-up to him while he looked for Allie.
"Max, did you get the girls out?"
"Yes, Dad, but there's a hitch. Charles docked the boat and was carrying a woman. I am assuming it's Allie. I'll try to see where he's taken her, but I need you to call the Harbor Patrol. They can get Garth and his team to the island. Any word on Vito or Sam?"
"Not yet. Could they be on the island already?"
A car's headlights caught Max's attention as it drove into the circular drive. He recognized the vehicle and then Vito as he climbed out from the driver's seat.
"Vito just pulled into the drive."
Vito had circled the car and pulled an unconscious Samantha from the other side. His days in prison allowed him to toss her over his muscular shoulder as if she was a sack of potatoes.
"Dad, he's got Sam. I don't know what they're planning, but it can't be good. Call Garth. I'm going to need some backup, and I need it fast."
**************
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - (an imposter called James Carrington) and a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - Vito's childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously and joins into the con game Marian Carrington - the wife -a star in her own mind and leads people to believe she suffers from dementia (actually the sister of the deceased James Carrington and an undercover FBI agent) Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Paul Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur (also, an undercover FBI agent) Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress Tiffany - an actress as a stand-in double for Jaz Lenny - an ex-con playing a stand-in double for Drake Lexington Drake Lexington - movie director and current lover of Jaz Max Welcher - brother to the Sheriff Paul Welcher |
By Begin Again
The conclusion of "Revenge" is written in three parts (Chapter 41 thru 43)
This is Part One.
Suspecting Marian's decision, he extended his hand to her. "Give me your hand so I can help you aboard. Your husband said I was to take all of you to safety immediately."
Marian's eyes flashed, and she snarled, "Then do your job. Rescue the girls."
"That included you, too, ma'am. You need to board the boat."
"The hell I do!" She looked at the women huddled together, shivering beneath blankets the crew had provided. "Get them to safety. I'm staying."
Cheryl's pleading eyes locked with Marian's determined ones. "Marian, don't do it, please. The girls need you."
Marian softened for a moment. "You can take care of them, Cheryl. You've done a fine job so far."
"But-" Cheryl's worried response was lost in the night breeze as she watched her friend turn away. She looked toward the sky and prayed, "God be with her."
The Captain opened his mouth to argue, but Marian was already racing through the tunnel entrance.
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - (an imposter called James Carrington) and a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - Vito's childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously and joins into the con game Marian Carrington - the wife -a star in her own mind and leads people to believe she suffers from dementia (actually the sister of the deceased James Carrington and an undercover FBI agent) Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Paul Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur (also, an undercover FBI agent) Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress Tiffany - an actress as a stand-in double for Jaz Lenny - an ex-con playing a stand-in double for Drake Lexington Drake Lexington - movie director and current lover of Jaz Max Welcher - brother to the Sheriff Paul Welcher |
By Begin Again
The conclusion of "Revenge" is written in three parts. (Chapter 41 thru Chapter 43)
This is Part Two.
Marian heard the door open and could feel Vito standing above her. She lifted her head from the pillow and smiled. "Why, Rhett, darling, I didn't know you were home. How ever did I get in this room?"
Vito yanked her off the bed and tossed her like a rag doll. Marian screamed in pain as she slammed into the dresser. Vito's laughter was manic as he grabbed her again. "You can drop the act, sweetheart. I've got your FBI buddy across the hall."
"Rhett, have you been drinking? I don't know what you're talking about." Her shoulders arched as she cringed and tried to move away. "What's an FBI? You're confusing me, darling."
Vito raised his hand to slap her again when Charles walked through the door. "Our special guest is waking up. I thought you'd want to say hello."
Vito leaned over Marian and whispered, "Nobody makes a fool of me. This conversation isn't over, and you will not like how it goes."
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - (an imposter called James Carrington) and a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - Vito's childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously and joins into the con game Marian Carrington - the wife -a star in her own mind and leads people to believe she suffers from dementia (actually the sister of the deceased James Carrington and an undercover FBI agent) Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Paul Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur (also, an undercover FBI agent) Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress Tiffany - an actress as a stand-in double for Jaz Lenny - an ex-con playing a stand-in double for Drake Lexington Drake Lexington - movie director and current lover of Jaz Max Welcher - brother to the Sheriff Paul Welcher |
By Begin Again
The conclusion of "Revenge" is written in three parts (Chapter 41 thru 43)
This is Part Three.
Flashing red and blue lights from the multiple squad cars and emergency vehicles lit up the mansion's front yard like a Christmas tree. The flash of camera bulbs popped everywhere.
Sheriff Paul Welcher claimed his space in the center of the reporters, proudly boasting how Savannah's superior law enforcement team had joined with the FBI to defeat a major crime team in the area. He continued to explain the multiple murders, kidnappings, pornography, and prostitution, indicating they had only scratched the surface of all the crimes committed by these unsavory thugs.
His eyes widened in surprise when he noticed his illustrious father and brother standing close by. As the two men approached, the crowd separated and let them join the sheriff.
"Did you come to see the genius of the family at work?" The sheriff waited for the crowd to laugh at his joke before stepping closer to his family.
With his FBI badge displayed prominently on his belt, Max smiled at his brother, "You're under arrest, Paul Welcher."
"What's this, a joke?" Paul looked around at his father, waiting for him to laugh or at least say something.
Max pulled the sheriff's badge from his brother's shirt. "I'm afraid it's not, Paulie."
Angered for his brother trying to steal his thunder, he snarled, "What's the charge? Being on top of a case?"
A few snickers were heard in the crowd.
Max stared at his brother. "We can use public indecency, false prosecution, pornography, and criminal trafficking for starters, but I'm sure there will be many more charges to come."
"Dad, stop this idiot. He doesn't know what he's doing."
Max slipped the silver bracelets around his brother's wrists. "It's time to right a wrong."
Paul shook his head and begged, "Dad, you can fix this; I know you can."
"Not his time, son. You had your chance, and you blew it. Now it's time to pay the piper."
Garth joined the small group and shook Mr. Welcher's hand. He looked at Paul Welcher and chuckled, "Guess you're part of the FBI, after all. The part that says most wanted."
Paul sneered at Garth and then spit at his father and Max. Neither of them flinched. They turned their backs and walked away.
"Our team will take it from here." Garth signaled for Tango to escort him to one of the squad cars.
Welcher, Sr. turned to hug Marian. "Great job, young lady. Are you sticking around for a while or back to D.C.?"
Marian smiled, "I've decided it's time to retire. In honor of my brother and his wife, I will be making the mansion into a helping hand facility for mothers with children. Besides, with the new addition--" She gently rubbed her stomach and laughed, "It's probably safer if I give up getting shot at."
"New addition?" Marian nodded a yes as Max hugged her, twirling her around in the air.
"Careful, son. That's my grandchild in there." He turned to Marian and smiled, "Welcome to the family."
"Sorry, Dad. She's been a part of our family for about three years. We didn't tell anyone. Let me introduce Scarlet Marian Carrington Welcher, my wife."
Sitting nearby in a wheelchair, Samantha screamed as loud as she could. "I'll never speak to you again, Marian. Three years? How could you?"
"Well, I'm making you an aunt. Does that count for anything?"
They hugged, and Sam replied, "It counts for everything. Congratulations on your marriage and the baby. I couldn't be happier."
As the EMT's wheeled another gurney from the house, Garth spotted Allie and hurried to her side. She looked around and asked, "Where's Jaz? She's okay, right?"
"If she's as tough as her sister, she's going to be great in a couple of weeks. She's at the hospital for a checkup to be on the safe side. Her stay at the mansion wasn't any vacation, but with you by her side, she'll do fine."
Allie couldn't tear her eyes away from Max and Marian. They looked so happy even though they'd just walked out of a living hell. Garth sighed, "If that's wedded bliss, maybe I might--"
Allie laughed, "Shut up and kiss me." Garth gladly followed her orders as the entire crew clapped.
Off to the side, Tango and Poppa sang off-key, "Here comes the bride."
***********THE END************
I write for the enjoyment of my readers as well as myself. I have been blessed by many followers throughout the 4 books in the series. I want to thank each and everyone who has read the story, offered their interpretation and support and guided me throughout the chapters. I would not have been able to achieve my goals without you. I've had difficult times, but your constant encouragement has pushed me to write and complete the story.
May God bless each of you. As I celebrate the Season of Joy, I'll cherish you and hold you close to my heart. Thank you!
| Author Notes |
Characters:
Vito Moretti - (an imposter called James Carrington) and a black-hearted ex-con with vengeance in his blood Charles (Charlie) Dubois - Vito's childhood friend who enjoys living luxuriously and joins into the con game Marian Carrington - the wife -a star in her own mind and leads people to believe she suffers from dementia (actually the sister of the deceased James Carrington and an undercover FBI agent) Henry and Tina Pagani - an elderly couple living on St. Simon Island Cheryl - Personal maid to Lady Marian Angel Bearrows - a wanna-be actress in the wrong place at the wrong time Alyssa Shelton (Allie)- Investigative Journalist and unofficial FBI Agent Jasmine Shelton (Jaz) - wanna-be-movie star and living on the edge of life Garth Woodman - FBI Agent and Allie's love interest Hank and Emmy Armato - retired detectives and current Private Investigators Sheriff Ortiz - Hayden - Napa Valley Police Department Sheriff Paul Welcher - Savannah, Georgia Police Department Tango and Poppa - FBI agents who work closely with Garth Thomas and Selene - Employees at Francine's Samantha Withers - femme fatale and entrepreneur (also, an undercover FBI agent) Mary Beth Jacobs - a deceased waitress and stand-in actress Tiffany - an actress as a stand-in double for Jaz Lenny - an ex-con playing a stand-in double for Drake Lexington Drake Lexington - movie director and current lover of Jaz Max Welcher - brother to the Sheriff Paul Welcher |
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