KILLER SECRET

Whisper Island Mystery Series - 3

Jenny Elaine

Copyright © 2025 Jenny Lundy

All rights reserved

The characters and events portrayed in this book are fictitious. Any similarity to real persons, living or dead, is coincidental and not intended by the author.

No part of this book may be reproduced, or stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without express written permission of the publisher.

ISBN-13: 979-8-9853661-6-7

PROLOGUE

Mary Glover stood in the back room of her antique store as she carefully went over the newest inventory. After writing everything down in her logbook, she then started the task of making sure all the furniture was completely unloaded. Over the years, she’d found everything from money stuffed into the backs of drawers to forbidden love letters tucked away inside hidden compartments. She knew more secrets about the residents of Whisper Island than anyone realized, and if the store ever failed, she’d joked with her husband about going into the blackmail business.

As she worked, she had to stop every so often to stretch her back or rub her neck. At fifty-four years old, Mary was just as energetic as she’d been at fifteen, but sorting through new inventory was always exhausting. Although she loved her antique store Whispers from the Past, it could be quite the headache sometimes and she was beginning to feel like she and her husband needed a vacation.

Alaska would be nice, she thought. Or perhaps Danette and I could go on a girl’s trip.

Danette Herbert-Lee was Mary’s cousin, and Mary still couldn’t believe Danette had decided to move back to the island a few months ago. Her father, Mary’s uncle, had recently passed, leaving the old Herbert estate empty. After losing her husband in a terrible car accident, Danette moved back to Whisper Island for good. When she’d stepped into Mary’s antique store two years ago with the surprising news and a wide smile, Mary was overjoyed...until the pain-filled memories came flooding back.

If only things had turned out differently all those years ago. Mary had never expected her life to end up the way it had. She’d thought she would marry Basil and they would leave the island to explore the world like they’d planned, but then things took a nasty and unexpected turn. Although Danette had always refused to admit it, she was partly to blame for everything that had happened, and Mary still secretly resented her for it.

“Oh, stop,” she muttered. “Let bygones be bygones, will you?”

With a huff, she shook her head and told herself to focus on her work. She’d just finished with a chest of drawers and was about to start on a vanity when she noticed something poking out from underneath the paper lining of the top drawer. Peeling back the paper, she removed the object and held it up to the light, her brow furrowing. She’d seen this before, but where? And why was it hidden inside this particular chest of drawers?

Suddenly, it hit her, and her eyes widened. She remembered where she’d last seen it, and her mind immediately scrambled to make sense of the matter. What…when…how? She sat down in a nearby chair and carefully thought it through. When she finally reached a conclusion, she was shaking all over. What on earth was she to do about this? Maybe there was some sort of explanation. Maybe if she just took the object to the person and asked them about it…

No, there was no explanation necessary. She knew the truth; she just hadn’t seen it until now. With a heavy sigh, she stood up and hurried into the front of the store where she put a “gone to lunch, be back in an hour” note on the front door. She didn’t need anyone showing up right now, so she locked up and went straight to her computer. With trembling hands, she typed out an email and then sat there, staring at it. Should she really do this without first asking for an explanation?

After giving it some more thought, she decided to talk to the original owner of the chest before sending the email. Just in case things didn’t go well, though, she scheduled the message to be sent in a few days. As she was moving the mouse up to click on her address book, she heard the back exit door squeak open and her heart caught. Who would be coming in that way? Perhaps it was…no, surely not. It was probably just the wind.

The thought had already entered her mind, however, and she felt a prick of panic shoot through her. Barely able to focus, she clicked on her address book, quickly selected one of the names, and hit “schedule to send”. What she didn’t realize, though, was that in her haste, her hand slipped and she chose two names instead of just one. In three days, the wrong person would receive a very strange and incriminating email.

Quickly closing her computer, Mary hurried over to one of her personal belongings: a 17th century harpsichord. She jotted down a quick note and shoved it into the back of the harpsichord under the lid along with the other item she’d found. She then made her way into the huge back room and looked around. The back exit door was standing wide open, and she frowned, wondering how that had happened. As she began to make her way through the furniture that stood between her and the back door, the lights suddenly shut off and the back door slammed shut

“Hello?” she called out, feeling disoriented in the dark.

The sound of footsteps on the cement floor echoed in the large room, and Mary felt a chill sweep over her. As her eyes began to adjust to the darkness, shadows cast by the furniture seemed larger and more ominous than usual. A hall tree looked like a person’s silhouette, and a large grandfather clock rose up through the darkness like a goblin from a fairytale. Mirrors on dressers and vanities reflected ghostly light filtering in from the front room, and Mary’s heart quickened when she spotted a rocking chair that suddenly seemed to be moving on its own.

Reaching out a trembling hand, Mary began to feel her way through the room toward the front of the store. She bumped into stools and trunks, making more noise than she’d intended, but she was drawing closer to the showroom with every step. If she could reach the door, she could hurry through the front room and onto the street to call for help.

Suddenly, a shadow stepped in front of her, blocking the way. Mary froze, her heart pounding as she squinted to see who it was. She took a step back, only to bump into a large bed frame.

“Going somewhere?”

Mary immediately recognized the voice. “What’s going on?” she wanted to know.

“I need you to come with me.”

Feeling uneasy, Mary asked, “Where?”

“We need to talk.”

“About what I found in the chest of drawers?” she asked.

The room became silent, and the hair on the back of Mary’s neck tingled. Suddenly, in one smooth motion, the figure moved, and a gun was being pointed at her.

“What are you doing?” Mary gasped in horror.

“Come with me now. I don’t want to hurt you, but I will if you force me to.”

Mary couldn’t believe what was happening. How had everything gotten so turned upside down? She’d always lived a relatively simple life, but the last few days had been a rollercoaster and things were only getting worse.

“O-okay,” she stammered. “Let’s go somewhere and talk this out.”

As Mary walked through the shadows toward the back door, all she could think about was the gun that was pointed straight at her. Surely, she wouldn’t be harmed. As they walked outside, though, and climbed into the car, a heavy feeling of foreboding swept over her and she feared this was the end.

CHAPTER 1

One week earlier

Zaylie walked carefully through the swampy forest, her eyes searching for any signs of life; both human and animal. She watched as her dog, Smutti, did the same. The large black Shepherd’s ears were tall and alert, and her nose continually searched for a scent.

An escaped inmate from a maximum-security prison was on the loose. No one knew exactly how he’d escaped, but he’d last been spotted near Savannah. His name was Basil Lockwood, and he was a convicted murderer.

The police were convinced that Basil was headed for the ports in Savannah, but Sheriff Bill Harper of Whisper Island felt the escapee was on his way to the island. Something happened years ago, something that Zaylie knew nothing about, and Bill thought Basil was coming back for revenge. When Zaylie tried to ask her old family friend what exactly happened, all Bill would say was that Basil Lockwood was a murderer and that he was dangerous.

One of Whisper Island’s elder residents, Mrs. Hayes, had called Bill that morning with a complaint of an unknown man slinking around the woods along the back of her property. Since the Chatham County police department wouldn’t help search the island without an official sighting of Basil, Bill asked Zaylie and Smutti to help.

“Watch it!”

At Bill Harper’s sudden hiss of warning, Zaylie jerked her attention toward the older man while giving Smutti a small whistle to stop in her tracks. Bill pointed toward the ground, and Zaylie drew in a quick breath when she spotted the water moccasin. It was slick and dark, with muted saddle markings along its large, thick body. Zaylie immediately motioned for Smutti to “come”, and the dog quickly obeyed. They stood in silence for a moment, waiting to see what the dangerous snake would do. If it tried to attack, Bill would be forced to shoot.

“Go away,” he whispered under his breath as he slowly drew his gun. Zaylie knew he didn’t want to fire a shot, as it would give away their location. They didn’t make any sudden moves, though, to try to scare it away, as moccasins were known to be aggressive. The ominous creature sat there, its tongue flicking in and out of its mouth as its beady eyes seemed to be staring straight at them. They waited with bated breath until finally, the snake slithered away.

They continued through the muck and mud, searching for more footprints to match those they’d found at the edge of the woods. After a moment, Smutti stopped near a fallen log and alerted them to a find.

“More footprints,” Bill said. “He definitely came through here.”

They continued to follow the trail of footprints, and after a while, they reached a break in the woods. They stopped just short of the tree line, making certain to stay within the shadow of the forest. Before them was a large clearing filled with cement that was covered with weeds and cracks. An old motel stood just on the other side, its windows broken out and part of the roof caved in.

“I’d forgotten this was here,” Bill muttered under his breath. “It’s been closed since I was a boy.”

There were at least a dozen rooms, and the old faded sign that hung haphazardly on its hinges read: Whisper Island Motor Lodge. Overgrown shrubs covered the bottom half of the building, and Zaylie could see a small dirt road leading to the motel from their right.

“Does that lead out to the main road?” she whispered, pointing toward the little road.

Nodding, Bill withdrew his gun and said in a low tone, “You and Smutti stay here.”

Zaylie reached out and touched Bill’s arm, stopping him. “You’ll need Smutti to know where he is.”

Bill hesitated as he glanced uncertainly between Smutti and the broken-down old motor lodge. Finally, he sighed and said, “Alright, but be careful.”

Leaning over, Zaylie attached the lead to Smutti’s collar and the three slowly began to move forward. The area was quiet; almost too quiet. The broken cement in the parking lot was so cracked and covered with weeds that Zaylie had to force herself to focus on her steps so she didn’t trip and fall. The trees surrounding the abandoned property swayed and whispered in the wind, and Zaylie felt an odd chill creep up her spine. Was someone standing inside one of the rooms, watching them from one of those dark, broken windows?

Smutti kept her nose to the ground, and Zaylie watched for more snakes. The last thing she wanted was for her dog to get bitten. After a moment, Smutti lifted her head and stared to the left of the building. Her long nose twitched a couple of times, and then she turned to look at Zaylie.

“She’s letting me know someone is there,” Zaylie whispered, her heart kicking into overdrive. She’d been on many search-and-rescue missions, many of which had been filled with danger, but never had she been involved in a search for a convicted murderer.

“Stay behind me,” Bill said firmly as he raised his gun.

The three moved forward as one; their eyes trained on the first door to the left. A dull and faded number “one” hung crookedly from the half-rotten door, and Zaylie held her breath as Bill reached out to try the doorknob. It was unlocked, and stepping out of the doorway, Bill pushed the door open.

Zaylie pressed her back against the wall, her hand gripping Smutti’s leash as she waited for the sound of gunfire. When nothing happened, she peered around the door to find Bill thoroughly searching the room.

“There’s no one here,” he mouthed.

Pointing to the door that led to the adjoining room, he moved quietly in that direction, and Zaylie followed from the outside. She stopped short of room number two’s window just as Smutti’s body stiffened and she let out a low growl. The hair on the back of Zaylie’s neck stood on end, but before she could call out a warning to Bill, he opened the adjoining door and the sound of yells split the air.

Smutti began to bark ferociously just as the motel door was thrown open. Zaylie jumped back with a gasp as a large man raced by, barely able to hold on to her dog as she lunged toward the man. Bill appeared in the doorway just then, his gun aimed in the air as he fired a shot. The man stopped, his chest heaving as he turned to look back at them with wild eyes.

“Don’t move, or the next bullet is for you,” Bill warned. “Who are you, and what are you doing here?”

“I-I live here.”

The man’s statement didn’t come as a surprise to Zaylie. His hair had obviously not been cut in months, his beard came almost to his mid-chest, and his clothes were torn and dirty. This wasn’t an escaped prisoner; this man was homeless.

After talking to the man for a bit more, they discovered that he often made the trek through the woods to Mrs. Hayes’ house to go through her trash. Since the motel’s property was privately owned and he was trespassing, Bill had to take the man in.

As they made the journey back through the woods, Zaylie realized that Basil Lockwood was still on the loose.

----------

Since Bill was tied up with the homeless man, Zaylie went home. As she drove down Azalea Bluff’s shaded driveway, she found herself glancing warily around at the trees and bushes she passed by. Could the prisoner be out there, lurking in the shadows? Zaylie hoped they found the man soon, but until they did, she had a feeling everyone on the island would be on pins and needles.

After parking in the garage and going inside, Zaylie called Leslie Bardot, the manager of her search and rescue center in Crescent Moon, Tennessee. Leslie was a wonderful manager and friend, and the two talked at least once every day.

“Harry said he’s quitting at the end of the month,” Leslie said with a sigh. “As you know, he’s one of our best trainers.”

Moaning, Zaylie asked, “Why is he quitting?”

“His girlfriend moved away and he apparently can’t live without her,” Leslie stated, and Zaylie could picture her friend rolling her eyes. Having gotten a divorce a few months before, she wasn’t a fan of romance.

“I’ll send out an advertisement to all the surrounding counties tomorrow,” Zaylie replied. “Hopefully, we’ll get some bites from a qualified trainer.”

“How is the new center coming along?” Leslie asked.

Zaylie glanced out the back window and smiled. “It’s going great,” she replied. “As you know, we ran into a few bumps, but it should be finished within a month.”

“That’s great news!” Leslie exclaimed. “The last I heard, Christmas had slowed things down quite a bit.”

“That’s what I thought, too, but I talked to the supervisor and he said he’s putting us as the top priority,” Zaylie replied.

“I can’t wait to come see it…” Leslie’s voice trailed off, and after a moment, she said in a confused tone, “Myles just pulled up. Uh, Zaylie, let me call you back.”

The call ended, and Zaylie couldn’t help but wonder why Leslie’s ex-husband had randomly decided to show up unannounced. The two had not parted amicably, and Zaylie knew Leslie was still very hurt over the divorce.

After shoving her phone back into her pocket, Zaylie made a mental note to text her friend later to make sure everything was okay.

CHAPTER 2

Leslie

Leslie ended the call with Zaylie and stared out the window, wondering why her ex-husband was there. She watched as he climbed from his patrol car and walked toward the training center. He needed a haircut, like always, and she noticed he’d gained a little over the holidays. Something still caught in her chest at the sight of him, though, and she steeled herself for what was to come. She hadn’t seen him in several weeks, but it was never easy to see him again.

Myles Bardot was a thorn in her side. They’d met at Zaylie’s training center seven years ago, and Leslie had immediately been smitten. Myles, on the other hand, had kept his distance. He was quiet and withdrawn, but he’d been amazing with the dogs. After they got to know each other, Leslie learned that Myles had been raised in an abusive home and bonding with animals was something that came easily to him. Humans, though? Not so much.

Hurrying from her office, Leslie opened the front door just as Myles was walking up the two brick steps. He looked at her for a moment through hooded blue eyes before a quiver of a smile whispered along his lips.

“Hi, Les,” he said in his typical low tone of voice. “How are you?”

“What do you want, Myles?” she asked bluntly, raising one eyebrow in question.

The flinch was so slight that it would have gone unnoticed by most people, but not Leslie. She knew him like the back of her hand. Or, at least, she thought she did. That’s one reason the divorce hurt so much.

“I need to talk to you about something,” he replied. “Can I come in?”

Without answering, Leslie stepped out of the doorway and motioned for him to come inside. They went into her office, and even though everyone else was out back in the training area, Myles shut the door behind them.

“I have a huge favor to ask,” he stated.

Raising her eyebrows, Leslie asked, “What is it?”

With a sigh, Myles pushed his hands into the pockets of his uniform pants and said, “We need Sergeant.”

Her brow furrowing, Leslie asked, “Excuse me?”

“I think one of the officers is involved in drugs,” he replied. “I need Sergeant’s help to prove it.”

Of all the things Leslie had expected Myles to say, this wasn’t one of them. After their divorce, he’d left the training center and joined the local police department. Crescent Moon was a small town, and the thought that one of the officers was doing drugs was mind-blowing.

“Use Remy,” she said, referring to Crescent Moon’s K-9 officer.

“If I use Sergeant, the rest of the department is less likely to find out,” Myles replied. “Besides, Sergeant is better at this than Remy, anyway. You know that. Remy is still young and in the training stage.”

Myles was right; Sergeant had been one of the best K-9 dogs she’d ever seen. His specialty was drug detection, and he’d worked by her father’s side at the police department in Knoxville for years. When her father was tragically killed on duty, Sergeant wasn’t able to work any longer. The department retired the dog, and he now lived with Leslie.

“You know Sergeant hasn’t been able to work after what happened,” Leslie said, referring to the trauma the dog had suffered when her father was shot and killed right beside him. “What makes you think it will be any different this time?”

“Because you’ll be with him, and he trusts you,” Myles replied. “Plus, it’s been two years since that happened. Who’s to say he even still remembers?”

“PTSD doesn’t just disappear with time,” Leslie snapped.

There it was again; the flinch. With a tight smile, Myles stated, “You’re right. I should be the first to know that.”

Before Leslie could reply, her bathroom door swung open with a scratch and the topic of their conversation walked into the room. As soon as he spotted Myles, the dog hurried across the room and immediately began rubbing against his legs.

“Hey, buddy,” Myles said fondly, his features softening as he leaned over to rub the large shepherd’s back. A lock of light brown hair fell across his forehead, adding to his slightly boyish appearance. Sergeant gazed up at Myles lovingly, and it was all Leslie could do not to roll her eyes.

Looking up at Leslie a moment later, Myles asked, “So, what do you say?”

“You’ve got a lot of nerve asking Sergeant and me for favors.”

Leslie hadn’t intended to say the words that were blazing through her mind like a blinking neon sign, but they popped out anyway. She was bitter; she knew that. But what she’d said was true. He had no right.

Myles’ eyes immediately became guarded and his jaw tightened. Standing to his full height, he stared at her with an unreadable expression. Finally, he said, “I won’t argue with that, but if you don’t help me, a lot of people could be hurt. Please, Leslie.”

Leslie hesitated, holding Myles’ gaze. He looked away, directing his attention back to Sergeant, and she sighed softly. Agreeing to help him was a bad idea; she knew it was. She needed to stay as far away from Myles Bardot as possible, but he still had that special way of making her go against her better judgment.

In a firm tone, Leslie stated, “Fine, we’ll help you.” When Myles looked back up with an expression of relief, she pointed a finger in his face and said, “Let’s get one thing straight, though. I’m not doing this for you; I’m doing it for the good of the town. So, don’t get used to asking me for favors, Myles.”

Myles held up both hands and nodded. “You don’t have anything to worry about. I promise. Thanks, Les. I’ll stop back by tomorrow to discuss the details.”

“Tomorrow is New Year's Eve,” Leslie said.

Blinking in surprise, as if he’d completely forgotten about the globally celebrated holiday, Myles said, “Oh…right. Well, I’ll get with you after the first of the year, then.”

As Leslie stood at the window and watched him leave seconds later, her heart ached just a little. Before, they would have celebrated the holiday together. She hoped she wasn’t doing the wrong thing by agreeing to help him. If she wasn’t careful, she was setting herself up to be hurt all over again.

I won’t let that happen, she told herself as she jerked the blinds closed and headed toward her desk. Not again.

CHAPTER 3

Zaylie

It was New Year's Eve, and as Zaylie and her grandmother drove onto the Herbert estate, Zaylie was immediately mesmerized. She’d never had the opportunity or occasion to visit the place before, but she’d heard stories of the old mansion and how stately it was. The property itself was breathtaking. In the distance, the Savannah River glistened in the moonlight, and the white lights that hung from the trees beside the long and winding driveway created an almost magical atmosphere.

“I can’t imagine how much work went into this,” Gran muttered as she stared out of the passenger side window.

As soon as the two women spotted the three-story mansion up ahead, their mouths dropped open. Built in the Romanesque Revival style, the mansion was several thousand square feet and almost resembled a castle more than a home. Built in 1889, it was made entirely of brick and featured two medieval towers and curved gables all around the top of the house. A huge, lighted fountain rested within the circular driveway in front of the house, only adding to the elegance of the atmosphere. Having been raised at Azalea Bluff, one of the largest and prettiest places on the island, Zaylie was struck by how wealthy this family obviously was. Or, at least, how wealthy Danette Herbert-Lee was. Now that her father was gone, there were no more Herberts living on the island.

After Zaylie pulled up in front of the house, she and Gran got out to let the valet take the car. Music drifted through the air, twinkling white lights were draped everywhere, and as the two women walked inside, they stopped for a moment to admire their surroundings. The interior of the house was breathtaking, with high cove ceilings and intricate woodwork that shone with a dark stain finish. The decorations were elegant and sophisticated, and as Zaylie ran a hand down her black velvet dress, she breathed a sigh of relief that she’d dressed so formally.

The house was alive with people, most of who were familiar, but some who were not. When Danette Herbert-Lee moved back to the island, she’d taken on the family tradition of running one of the biggest charities in the area. As a way of saying thank you to all who donated, the Herbert family always held a New Year's Eve party for the donors. This year was the first time, however, that the event was held on the Herbert estate.

“Zaylie! Gran!”

Turning, Zaylie searched the crowd for the beautiful face that matched the all too familiar voice. Mr. Steele had donated to the charity and had been forced by his daughter to bring her with him as his “date”. His girlfriend, Helen Buchanan, wasn’t very pleased to miss the chance to see the famous Herbert mansion, but Rita wouldn’t have it any other way.

“Isn’t this amazing?” Rita Steele gasped as soon as she reached her best friend’s side. She wore a flaming red dress that accentuated her tiny figure, and a sparkling diamond clip held back her shiny black hair on one side. Having recently decided to let go of her life as a Broadway actress, she’d moved back to Whisper Island to become a drama teacher. She still looked every bit like a glamorous actress, however; Zaylie didn’t think she’d ever look anything less.

“Yes, it is,” Zaylie replied as Rita looped one arm through hers. “I honestly feel a little out of place.”

“You don’t look out of place, though,” Rita replied, stepping back to get a good look at her beautiful, auburn-haired friend. “You look fabulous! And, Gran, you are stunning.”

Zaylie’s grandmother blushed. “Thank you, dear,” she said with a smile. Pointing through the crowd, she said, “Oh, there’s Jan. You girls stay out of trouble.”

As Gran hurried across the room to join her friend, Zaylie and Rita slowly began to walk through the house. The feeling of excitement in the air was palpable. As they stopped to talk to a few different people, though, Zaylie quickly discovered that the main topic of conversation was the escaped prisoner rather than the lavishness of the party.

“As exciting as this is, I can’t help but feel a little uneasy,” one guest commented.

“Yes, I find myself sticking to the larger crowds rather than wandering off on my own,” another agreed.

“I’m a little surprised that Danette would even host this party during such a time,” one woman stated.

“Why is that?” Rita questioned.

Looking around, the woman said in a low tone, “Because it’s her family he’s after.”

As if sensing that her family was being discussed, Mary Glover stepped up next to Zaylie. The small group quickly dispersed with murmured excuses.

“It seems everyone is avoiding me tonight,” she stated with a laugh as she gave Zaylie and Rita a quick hug.

Mrs. Mary owned the local antique store and was one of the friendliest ladies Zaylie had ever known. Gran always said she loved having as many friends as possible, so she could have plenty of people to gossip with. She was Danette Herbert-Lee’s cousin, but until recently, Zaylie had never known she was related to the wealthy family.

“I think everyone is just a little on edge,” Zaylie replied with a small shrug.

“That’s silly,” she said, waving a hand in the air. “Basil wouldn’t dare show his face around here after…”

Her husband, Gerald, joined them just then, and Mrs. Mary quickly changed the subject.

“Did y’all have a good Christmas?” she asked.

“Yes, ma’am.” Zaylie nodded. “My parents were here, so that was nice. It was the first Christmas we’ve spent together at Azalea Bluff since Zoe died.”

Mrs. Mary nodded sympathetically. “I’m so glad they were able to be here,” she said. “I know Louella was thrilled to have her daughter home for a few days. Where is Louella, by the way?”

Zaylie pointed across the room, and after Mrs. Mary excused herself to go talk to Gran, Zaylie turned to smile at Mary’s husband. Gerald Glover was a short and stocky man with a half-moon bald head and faded blue eyes. He was on the shy side, but still very nice.

While Mr. Gerald asked Rita about one of her students who just happened to live in his neighborhood, the sound of tense voices met Zaylie’s ears. Glancing over her shoulder, she spotted Danette Herbert-Lee in a nearby corner, speaking with a woman who appeared to be in her mid-thirties. Danette looked very unhappy as she hissed something under her breath, and with a clenched jaw, the younger woman turned and stalked away. Danette’s cousin Ernie Monroe, who was a handsome man in his early fifties, hurried after her. Zaylie watched as he tried to take her hand, but the girl jerked away in anger.

“Oh, dear, it looks like Stacey has once again annoyed my cousin.”

Turning, Zaylie realized Mrs. Mary had rejoined their group.

Mr. Gerald raised an eyebrow and sighed. “If Danette keeps this up, they’ll break up in no time, which I’m sure is what she wants,” he muttered.

“Gerald,” Mrs. Mary hissed.

“I, of course, know Mr. Ernie,” Zaylie said, “but who is Stacey?”

“She’s his girlfriend; they met in Savannah a couple of months ago,” Mrs. Mary replied. “We don’t know anything else except that Danette doesn’t think too highly of her.”

“She doesn’t think too highly of any of the women he’s tried to date,” Mr. Gerald said with a chuckle.

Mrs. Mary gave her husband a look and then said to Zaylie and Rita, “She’s just been very protective of Ernie since his accident.”

Zaylie knew she was referring to the terrible car accident he’d been involved in right before Mrs. Danette moved back. He was in the hospital for months and no one was sure whether he was going to live. When he finally came out of the coma, his nerves were badly affected and the doctors said he didn’t need to be left alone. That was partly why Mrs. Danette moved back to the island; to look after him.

“Mary, why do you have to keep bringing that up?” Mr. Gerald frowned at his wife. “He’s over all that now.”

While Mrs. Mary quickly jumped to her own defense, Zaylie spotted her boyfriend entering through the front door. Excusing herself, she hurried across the room to join him, thankful for the timely interruption.

“Hey, you,” she greeted him with a warm smile. “I didn’t think you were going to be able to make it tonight.”

Leaning over to kiss her on the cheek, Micah Pierce said, “I pulled some strings and was able to get back in time. Wow, you look gorgeous!”

Her cheeks flushing, Zaylie said, “Thanks. You don’t look so bad yourself. You know, I don’t think I’ve ever seen you in a tux before.”

His blue eyes filling with mock hurt, Micah frowned and said, “You don’t remember the tux I wore for prom?”

Zaylie threw back her head and laughed. “A purple tux from the costume store doesn’t count!”

Micah grinned. “I’d say you were right. What was I thinking?”

As the two slowly walked across the room to grab some punch, Zaylie asked, “Did you have a good time visiting with your family in Boston?”

Micah nodded, but before he could answer, the same young woman came stomping through the crowd and out the front door. Ernie stood at the bottom of the staircase, watching her with a forlorn expression. When he caught Zaylie’s eye, his face lightened, and he walked toward them. He was tall and handsome, with striking blue-gray eyes and graying black hair.

“Zaylie, dear, how are you?” he asked as he shook Micah’s hand.

“Good, Mr. Ernie,” she said with a smile. “And you?”

Ernie shrugged. “Honestly? I wish this party was over.”

“Did your date just leave?” Micah asked, nodding his head in the direction of the front door.

Ernie sighed, his expression falling once again. “Yes, and I’m afraid for good,” he replied. “Danette doesn’t approve, and in a way, I can’t blame her. Stacey can be a little...overdramatic at times. I guess that’s what happens when you date a much younger woman.”

Obviously, Mrs. Danette had quite a hold over her cousin, just as Mr. Gerald had suggested. Or perhaps she was simply a good judge of character and knew this Stacey person wasn’t good for him. From what Zaylie has seen, she did seem to be a bit on the dramatic side.

“To give them both the benefit of the doubt, though, everyone is a little on edge right now,” Ernie said, breaking Zaylie’s thoughts.

“Because of the escaped prisoner?” Micah asked.

Ernie nodded. “Yeah, Danette has been on pins and needles ever since she heard about it.”

Unable to contain her curiosity, Zaylie said, “I heard someone mention earlier that he is after your family. Do you think that’s true?”

“It’s very possible,” he replied. “After he killed Danette’s brother, she testified against him at the trial. He was very angry with her and threatened to get us all back someday.”

“Mrs. Danette’s brother was the man he killed?” Micah asked in surprise.

“That’s right,” Ernie said. “Lockwood was engaged to our cousin Mary, and Rand was against it. They got into a big fight over it one night and Lockwood threatened to kill Rand if he didn’t back off. The next day, my cousin was found dead.”

“Basil was engaged to Mary Glover?” Zaylie asked, her green eyes wide as she glanced around the room in search of the older woman.

“Yes, that was before she married Gerald,” Ernie replied.

“Why did Rand disapprove?” Micah spoke up.

Ernie shrugged. “Basil wasn’t the type of man she needed to be dating,” he replied. “To be honest, I didn’t approve of him either.”

Just then, Zaylie spotted Sheriff Bill Harper and Ryker Steele standing along the wall, their eyes watchful. They were both dressed in formal attire, but by their stance, she had the distinct feeling they were on duty.

“Danette hired them to keep guard tonight,” Ernie stated when he saw where her gaze was focused.

Ernie excused himself then, and Zaylie felt a sense of apprehension creep up her spine. Ryker, Rita’s twin brother, was an ex-Navy SEAL, and Zaylie realized now more than ever just how serious the situation was. Taking a step closer to Micah, she glanced warily around the room, wondering if Basil Lockwood lurked somewhere among the shadows.

CHAPTER 4

The Shadow

I’m inside the house, but no one sees me. I’m upstairs, watching the party from the cover of the shadows. The sound of laughter and music fills the huge mansion, and I search the crowd for familiar faces. Although everyone is smiling, there’s a sense of unease filling the air and a common topic of conversation seems to be on everyone’s tongues: Basil Lockwood.

I smirk at the way people whisper the name, as if it’s a bad word. Everyone is nervous and edgy about an escaped prisoner possibly being on the island, but I don’t care about them. The only people I care about are…

There. There they are. I feel my body tense as my eyes rove over the familiar features. For the most part, they seem happy, and a sense of anger creeps up my spine. My hands tighten into a fist and I close my eyes, taking a deep breath. As I let it out slowly, I force myself to remain calm. They’re going to pay for what happened; I'm going to make certain of that. I’ve waited a long time for this moment to come, and I'm not going to blow it now.

----------

Zaylie

“This is turning out to be quite a night,” Micah stated.

Before Zaylie could ask whether he was referring to the party itself or the drama surrounding Basil Lockwood, she noticed Mrs. Danette heading their way with a very distinguished-looking man at her side. Danette Herbert-Lee was one of those women who was very sure of herself; she’d always been part of an extremely wealthy family. She was very attractive, and she carried herself like a queen. Zaylie had only seen her a few times since she’d moved back to the island, and she was rather intimidated by the woman. Seeing her arguing with her cousin’s girlfriend moments before was a bit surprising, however, as Zaylie would have thought Mrs. Danette was too distinguished to argue in public.

“Zaylie, Micah,” Danette greeted the two with a graceful smile. “I’m so glad to see you both here tonight. Thank you so much for your kind donations.”

Smiling in return, Zaylie said, “You’re very welcome. Your home is amazing.”

Micah nodded in agreement. “It certainly is, Mrs. Lee.”

“Oh, you both are too kind,” she replied with a small wave of her hand. Motioning toward the man at her side, she said, “I don’t believe the two of you have met my charming date. Zaylie, Micah, this is Harrison Taylor. He’s a native of Whisper Island and has decided to come back home for a while.” Smiling at Mr. Taylor with a twinkle in her eyes, she added playfully, “I’m hoping to convince him to stay much longer.”

Sticking out his hand, Micah said in an admiring tone, “You own that gorgeous yacht that’s been docked at the harbor.”

Harrison nodded and said, “Yes, I do. She’s a beauty, isn’t she?”

While the two men discussed the “Bella Donna”, Zaylie couldn’t help but notice how expensive Mr. Taylor’s clothes were. They were obviously tailor-made, and even his shoes were a brand that cost well over two thousand dollars. He stood around six feet tall, his handsome face sported a small mustache, and his salt and pepper hair was smoothed down and shiny, giving him a very illustrious air.

“Are you happy to be back on the island, Mr. Taylor?” Zaylie spoke up with a smile. She’d never heard of him before and wondered where he’d been all these years.

Turning his piercing gray eyes on Zaylie, Harrison nodded his head and said, “Very much so. It’s been far too long since I’ve visited.”

Zaylie wanted to ask where he now called home, but someone in the crowd called out to him and he excused himself.

“I should see what’s taking so long in the kitchen,” Mrs. Danette stated. Clearing her throat, she added in a slightly embarrassed tone, “Listen, I’d like to apologize for the spectacle my cousin’s girlfriend made tonight. I’ve tried to warn him about her, but Ernie has never been one to listen. Since his accident, I’m afraid he’s gotten even worse.”

Zaylie blinked. Mrs. Danette was treating Ernie like a child instead of a grown man. He was only four or five years younger than her, but she was acting like he wasn’t responsible enough to make his own decisions. Had the accident really affected him that badly?

“Uh, well, I’m sure everything will work out,” Zaylie replied with a small smile.

“Mr. Ernie is certainly old enough and smart enough to figure it all out, Mrs. Lee,” Micah spoke up. “I’m sure there’s no need to worry about him.”

Mrs. Danette cut her striking blue eyes over at Micah, her jaw clenching at his words. The air filled with an awkward silence, and Zaylie shifted uncomfortably on her feet. She was scrambling to think of something to say to break the tension when Mrs. Danette smiled tightly and said, “I’m sure you’re right. Now if you’ll both excuse me, I need to go check on the food. Enjoy the rest of your evening.”

As she walked away, Micah blew out a breath and said in a low voice, “I don’t think she appreciated what I said.”

“I’d say it was obvious she didn’t,” Zaylie replied with a small chuckle.

Pursing his lips, Micah said, “Well, I’m not sorry I said it. She treats him like a child.”

“He lets her, though, which is part of the problem,” Zaylie replied. Spotting Ryker and Bill once again, she said, “It’s a little scary that Mrs. Danette felt we might need security here tonight.”

After eyeing Ryker for a moment, Micah added drolly, “I didn’t realize Steele was in that line of work.”

“As far as I know, he’s not,” Zaylie replied. “He used to be a Navy SEAL, though, so I guess Mrs. Danette figured he would be a good one to help Bill handle any problems.”

With a slight scowl, Micah muttered, “Yes, I know he was a SEAL.”

Before they could continue the conversation, it was announced that the food was ready. Everyone filed through the house and out back, where a massive white tent was set up with dozens of tables inside. String lights were draped from the ceiling, and a violinist played softly in one corner. Zaylie and Micah joined Gran, Jan, Mr. Steele, and Rita at a table, each commenting on how Danette had outdone herself.

“When The Island Vet donated to her charity, I never imagined such a glamorous ‘thank you’,” Micah stated as he took his seat beside Zaylie.

“And to think there were rumors that she was hurting for money before she moved back,” Jan commented. When everyone looked at her questioningly, she leaned forward and added in a low voice, “I heard that her husband gambled away most of their money.”

“Well, apparently the rumors were wrong,” Gran stated. “I can’t imagine how much she spent on this event tonight.”

Jan shrugged. “Or maybe her father left her quite the inheritance when he died.”

Mary and Gerald Glover joined their table then, interrupting their conversation. A few moments later, the servers brought out the food.

“How’s work at the hotel?” Micah asked Mr. Gerald. “It must be pretty busy this time of year.”

“I’m not at the hotel any longer,” Mr. Gerald replied, and Zaylie didn’t miss the slight scowl that passed over his wife’s face. “I’ve never been great with working around people, so the hospitality business just wasn’t for me. I couldn’t take the constant grumbling and complaining anymore.”

“It wasn’t all grumbling and complaining,” Mrs. Mary commented, giving her husband a look. “You told me many times how nice a lot of the guests were.”

Putting his arm around her shoulders, Mr. Gerald gave them a playful squeeze. “Maybe I just wanted to be around my wife more often,” he said. “You could always hire me full-time at the antique shop instead of only using me to move heavy pieces of furniture when needed.”

The two continued to banter back and forth, but Zaylie wondered just how innocent it really was. Gerald Glover was known around the island as being a bit of a job-hopper, and she assumed it must bother his wife a little.

Looking at Micah, Mr. Gerald asked with a small smile, “Anything available at the vet? Maybe I’d enjoy working with animals more than people.”

Micah laughed. “Not at the moment,” he replied. “If something comes up, though, I’ll let you know.”

The remainder of the evening went by smoothly. Everyone was happy, the food was delicious, and the atmosphere was magical. Mrs. Danette had just announced there would be fireworks at midnight when Micah’s phone rang. After talking for a couple of minutes, he came back to join Zaylie with a troubled look on his face.

“That was Mrs. Simpson, my neighbor,” he said. “Her dog has been hit by a car and she’s hysterical; you know how much that dog has meant to her since her husband passed. I’ve got to go help her, Zaylie. I’m sorry.”

Touching his arm, Zaylie nodded and said, “I understand. Give Mrs. Simpson my love.”

“If at all possible, I’ll do my best to be back in time for the fireworks,” he told her as he bent down to press a warm kiss against her lips. Pulling back just a bit, he said in a warm tone, “If not, though, Happy New Year.”

After Micah left, Mrs. Danette gave a speech of thanks to all the donors as well as an update on how the money would be used. Once she was finished, she announced that the giant patio was now open for dancing.

“Enjoy the last two remaining hours of the year,” she told everyone with a bright smile.

“If only Grady were here to dance with me,” Rita stated with a forlorn sigh.

Cutting her eyes over at her friend, Zaylie said, “I thought you two were just friends.”

A sly smile slipped across Rita’s face. “It’d be nice to have such a good-looking friend to ring in the New Year with, don’t you think?”

Zaylie laughed. Nodding her head toward a rather handsome man in his early forties who was walking their way, she said in a low voice, “Looks like Principal Novak has some ideas of his own.”

“A woman dancing with her boss?” Rita whispered, her eyes sparkling. “What a scandal!”

With a smile, Zaylie shook her head as she watched Principal Novak sweep her friend off toward the dance floor. Rita Steele was a force to reckon with.

“We can’t let them have all the fun, can we?”

Turning toward the low voice just to her left, Zaylie looked up at Rita’s twin brother, Ryker. He was dressed in a tux, which his broad shoulders filled out quite nicely, and his hazel eyes twinkled with their typical mischief.

“Aren’t you on the clock?” Zaylie asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Danette said I could dance if I wanted to, and it just so happens that I do,” he replied. Tilting his head to the side, he held out a hand and added, “Join me?”

Although Zaylie felt a little guilty about dancing with another man while her boyfriend had to go to work, she took Ryker’s hand and nodded. Micah would still want her to enjoy herself, wouldn’t he?

As they walked onto the dance floor and Ryker pulled Zaylie into his arms, she couldn’t help but notice the familiar woodsy scent that always seemed to cling to his skin. His strong hand engulfed hers in a gentle grasp, and Zaylie could feel his muscled arm beneath her fingers.

“Pierce ran off and left you, huh?” he asked, his breath warm against her face.

“He had an emergency at the clinic,” she replied.

“His loss,” he stated with a grin.

Ignoring his statement, Zaylie asked, “So, how did you get hired as a security guard here tonight?”

“I did some repairs around the house when Danette first moved back,” he replied. “She trusts me, I guess. Plus, she knows about my background, so she asked if I’d help Bill.”

“Do you think Lockwood would dare show up here tonight?” she asked.

Glancing around, Ryker said, “I doubt he’d show up at an event like this, but all those trees that surround the property bother me a little. Anyone could be hiding out there.”

Zaylie shivered slightly as her gaze took in the shadowed woods on the back end and sides of the yard. What Ryker said about Lockwood not showing up at a party made sense, but would a crazed killer who was out for revenge stop to think things through?

The rumbling of Ryker’s chest as he chuckled brought Zaylie’s attention back to him. “Don’t look so worried,” he said with a sparkle in his eyes. “I’ll protect you.”

“You’d better,” Zaylie shot back playfully.

The music ended then, and when another started up, an elderly gentleman asked Zaylie to dance. The next two hours passed swiftly, and when it was time for the fireworks, the lights were switched off and everyone waited on the patio with excitement. As the men went out onto the dock to begin, Zaylie slowly made her way through the darkness toward the back of the crowd. Micah had texted her ten minutes before saying he was on his way back, and she hoped he’d make it in time for the show.

As Zaylie waited in the back, she pulled her shawl tighter around her shoulders. The night wasn’t as cold as one might expect on New Year’s Eve, but it was still quite chilly and the darkness seemed to only enhance the feeling.

Why was it taking so long? Zaylie had never been a fan of the dark, and she was starting to feel uneasy. When a warm body stepped up behind her and touched her on the arm, she leaned into the comforting warmth with a smile. Micah had made it back in time. Now, they could ring in the New Year together.

The men from the dock gave a whistle, letting everyone know it was time. Someone pulled out their cell phone and announced that ten seconds were remaining, and so the countdown began. Feeling excited, Zaylie turned and lightly draped her arms around Micah’s waist.

“Ten, nine, eight…”

As everyone counted, Micah wrapped an arm around Zaylie and pulled her closer.

“Seven, six, five, four…”

The chanting of the crowd grew louder and louder, so much so that Zaylie couldn’t even hear her own voice joining in. Everyone’s eyes were pointed upward, waiting for the first of the fireworks to light up the dark sky.

“Three, two, one…”

With a smile, Zaylie stood on her tiptoes and wrapped her arms around Micah’s neck. “Happy New Year,” she whispered against his mouth.

As cheers and whistles erupted from the crowd and bright lights exploded from the sky, Micah’s lips covered hers. His arms held her tightly against his chest, and Zaylie felt a warmth spread all over her body as the kiss deepened.

Just then, something pierced through the haze that engulfed Zaylie. It was a familiar, woodsy scent, and she suddenly realized that Micah seemed taller than usual. Her eyes popped open and she pulled back, breaking the warm kiss. When another round of fireworks lit up the night sky, she realized with a sinking stomach that she hadn’t been kissing Micah at all.

CHAPTER 5

Zaylie jerked away so quickly that she almost fell backward. Glancing around, she was relieved no one seemed to have noticed what happened. Her cheeks were so hot that she could have lit a candle.

“Ryker!” she gasped. “What do you think you’re doing?”

“I could ask you the same question,” he replied with a grin sliding across his face. “After all, you kissed me.”

“I thought you were Micah!” she exclaimed.

Reaching up to rub the back of his neck, Ryker chuckled and said, “I seem to remember this same thing happening once before.”

He was right. When they were kids, Zaylie thought it was Micah behind the Halloween mask. When she’d realized she’d given her first kiss to Ryker, she’d almost rung his neck.

“You’ve improved with age,” Ryker added with a devilish wink.

“I can’t believe you went along with it,” Zaylie declared, furious with him. “You had to know I didn’t realize it was you.”

“Do you know of any single man who would pass up a New Year’s kiss from a beautiful woman?” Ryker asked with raised eyebrows. His eyes twinkling, he leaned closer and said in a low tone, “Don’t worry; I won’t tell.”

Her lips pursed, Zaylie crossed her arms and asked, “Why did you come up behind me like that, anyway?”

“I thought you looked cold, so I was going to offer you my jacket,” he replied. Shrugging, he added, “When you leaned against me, I didn’t want to ruin the moment.”

Zaylie’s cheeks flushed once again. “You ought to be ashamed of yourself, Ryker Steele,” she stated indignantly.

Chuckling, Ryker said, “You know, I think the reason you’re upset is because you enjoyed it so much.”

“Let me tell you something…”

Before Zaylie could begin to give Ryker a piece of her mind, the sound of shattering glass blended with the popping of fireworks, and someone let out a blood-curdling scream. Spinning around, Zaylie peered through the darkness in an attempt to see what had happened. Ryker hurried inside to turn the patio lights on, and once the area was well-illuminated, the fireworks stopped. The men on the dock were looking their way as they wondered what was going on.

“Is everyone okay?”

The voice belonged to Bill, and Zaylie spotted him hurrying through the crowd toward the front where it appeared someone was lying on the ground. Standing on her tiptoes, Zaylie’s eyes widened when she realized it was Danette Herbert-Lee.

“Is she okay?” a strong voice spoke out.

Turning, Zaylie spotted a large woman in her late fifties pushing her way through the crowd. She was dressed all in black, and her stark gray hair was pulled back into a harsh bun. When she reached Mrs. Danette’s side, she kneeled down and began lightly slapping Mrs. Danette on the wrist.

“Do you want me to call an ambulance?” Bill asked.

Shaking her head, the woman said, “Give me a minute. She has low blood sugar and has had these spells before.”

Zaylie eased her way through the crowd until she reached the front. Mrs. Danette was pale and limp, and Zaylie noticed a shattered glass lying just beside her left hand. The contents of the glass had all spilled into the grass nearby, but before Zaylie could voice the question on her lips, Mrs. Danette stirred.

“W-what’s going on?” she murmured.

“You fainted,” the unknown woman stated, her piercing dark eyes never leaving Mrs. Danette’s face. “Can you sit up?”

“I think so,” Mrs. Danette replied in a soft, trembling voice.

Ryker stepped forward, and between him and Bill, the two men were able to get Mrs. Danette onto her feet and into a nearby chair. The woman in black pulled a glucose meter from her pocket and checked Mrs. Danette’s blood sugar.

“It’s too low,” she said. Looking at Bill, she asked, “Can you take her inside so I can administer her medication?”

Bill nodded, and as he and Ryker helped Mrs. Danette inside the house, she turned to everyone and said, “I’m so sorry about this. Please, stay and enjoy the rest of the fireworks. Ernie, would you tell the men it’s okay to start back now?”

There was a murmuring of voices on the patio as Ernie did his cousin’s bidding. Feeling nosy, Zaylie asked Mrs. Danette’s cousin, Mary Glover, about the woman in black.

“Oh, that’s Hannah,” Mrs. Mary replied, her face pulled tight with worry. “She’s the house manager; she’s worked for Danette for the last twenty years or more.”

“I heard her say that this has happened before?” Zaylie questioned.

Mrs. Mary nodded. “It has, but as far as I know, it’s been several years since it last happened. I don’t understand what could have caused this episode tonight. Unless…”

When Zaylie looked at her questioningly, she sighed and said, “Unless she’s worried about Basil.”

“Surely he wouldn’t escape from prison only to come back to a place where people are expecting him,” Zaylie commented.

Mrs. Mary shrugged. “I agree that it wouldn’t make sense,” she said, “but Basil always followed his own rules. He rarely did what made sense to everyone else.”

Zaylie didn’t quite know what to say, and apparently, her face showed her thoughts because Mrs. Mary chuckled and said, “You’re wondering why I would have been engaged to someone like that. Well, I was young and sheltered, and Basil was the complete opposite. I suppose I found him to be exciting. He was always getting into fights and doing things his own way, but I was crazy about him. Silly me, right?”

The way Mrs. Mary spoke of him didn’t sound like a woman who hated and feared the man who had killed her cousin. She wore an almost sorrowful expression, and her voice was filled with fondness and…regret?

Clearing her throat, Mrs. Mary shook herself and said harshly, “I hope they catch him; he doesn’t deserve to be free after what he did.”

With that being said, she turned and walked away. Zaylie watched her for a moment as she reflected on the rather strange conversation.

Micah showed up just as the fireworks started once again, and over all the noise, Zaylie explained what had happened with Danette. He looked back at the house, his face pulled into a concerned frown, and Zaylie blew out a long breath. What a way to ring in the New Year.

CHAPTER 6

The next morning, Zaylie drove back out to the Herbert estate to pick up her cell phone. She’d accidentally left it there the night before, and she hoped it hadn’t been stolen. She also hoped Danette wouldn’t mind her showing up unannounced.

When she arrived, workers were scurrying around the place as they busily cleaned up from the party the night before. As Zaylie parked behind a few other vehicles in front of the massive house, she wondered how Mrs. Danette was doing.

After she rang the doorbell, it only took a few seconds for the house manager, Hannah, to open the front door. She raised one arched eyebrow in question, not bothering to ask why Zaylie was there or what she wanted.

With a smile, Zaylie said, “Hi, I’m Zaylie Layne. I’m so sorry to just stop by like this, but you haven’t come across a random cell phone, have you? I was here last night, and I believe I left it somewhere out on the patio.”

Her expression relaxing somewhat, Hannah said, “Oh, yes, I remember you. Please, come inside.”

Zaylie had just followed Hannah through the foyer when the sudden sound of raised voices echoed through the house. Hannah hurried over to the sitting room and quickly shut the doors, but not before Zaylie saw Danette and her cousin Ernie. The two were obviously involved in a very heated argument, and Zaylie caught a few words here and there such as “the wrong girl” and “controlling”. Apparently, they were once again arguing over Ernie’s choice of girlfriends.

“Follow me, please,” Hannah said in a tight voice.

As Zaylie followed the older woman through the house and out onto the patio, she casually commented, “It seems that Ms. Danette is feeling better today. Everyone was very worried about her last night.”

Hannah nodded. “Yes, it was quite a stressful situation,” she replied.

“Does her blood sugar drop like that very often?” Zaylie asked.

“It’s happened in the past, but it’s been a couple of years since her last episode,” Hannah replied.

“I wonder what brought it on?” Zaylie asked.

They were outside, and Hannah stopped walking to turn and look at Zaylie. Her sleek, silver hair was pulled back with a rubber band, and her features were every bit as stark as they were the night before. She was tall and big-boned, and her eyes were so dark and piercing that Zaylie had to force herself not to squirm.

After a moment of tense silence, Hannah finally raised her eyebrows and asked, “Well? Didn’t you say your phone was out here?”

Clearing her throat, Zaylie nodded and quickly set about looking for her phone. When she found it, she heaved a sigh of relief and thanked Hannah. The two walked back through the house in silence, and just before they reached the front door, Ernie came storming out of the sitting room. Without offering either woman a glance, he stomped through the front door and down the front steps.

“Hannah!”

At the sound of Danette’s call, Hannah quickly ushered Zaylie through the foyer and outside. Zaylie turned and was about to thank the woman again, but before she could utter a word, the door was slammed in her face.

“What a friendly place this is,” she muttered under her breath.

As she walked toward her car, Zaylie noticed a brand-new Rolls-Royce pulling up to the house. Harrison Taylor was in the driver’s seat, and Zaylie watched with wide eyes as Ernie nearly sideswiped the beautiful car. The action almost seemed intentional, and as Ernie sped away, Harrison climbed from his car and watched the retreating vehicle with a shake of his head.

“I thought you almost had it there,” Zaylie stated.

“So did I,” Harrison replied, as he turned to smile at her. “How are you today, Miss Layne?”

Surprised that he remembered her name, Zaylie held up her phone and said, “Much better now that I found my phone. Apparently, I left it here last night.”

“I lose my phone at least twice a day.” Harrison chuckled. “Did you enjoy the party? I thought Danette did an excellent job.”

Zaylie nodded. “Oh, yes,” she replied. “So, do you think you’ll stay on Whisper Island this time?”

Walking toward her, Harrison said, “It’s very possible.” When he reached her side, he pushed his hands into his pockets and added, “You’re part of the Layne’s from Azalea Bluff, correct? That’s a beautiful piece of property.”

“Thank you. It’s no Herbert estate, but we like it,” Zaylie replied with a smile. “Where have you been calling home the last few years, Mr. Taylor?”

Harrison glanced over at the Herbert mansion, and Zaylie saw something flicker through his eyes. When he returned his silvery gaze to her, there was nothing but pleasantness in his expression.

“Here and there,” was all he said before wishing her a good day.

As Zaylie watched him walk into the house, she found herself wondering about Mrs. Danette’s mysterious rich boyfriend.

----------

Later that afternoon, Zaylie joined Micah and his family for a New Year’s Day celebration. They grilled steaks, played games, and told funny stories about holidays gone by. Micah’s parents were great, and the banter between Micah and his two older brothers was always comparable to a theatrical performance.

Later that evening, Zaylie and Micah sat outside next to the fire, roasting marshmallows. She’d been struggling to find the right time to tell him about Ryker, and now that they were finally alone, she felt nervous.

“So, uh, there’s something I need to tell you,” she stammered.

Looking at her curiously, Micah said, “Okay.”

Zaylie shifted uncomfortably in her seat and cleared her throat. “I may have accidentally kissed Ryker last night,” she blurted out in one quick breath.

Micah’s eyebrows shot up and he stared at her in bewilderment. “How do you accidentally kiss someone?” he wanted to know.

“I thought it was you,” she replied with a nervous laugh.

At Micah’s look of utter confusion, Zaylie took a deep breath and told him the whole story. Although she could tell Micah wasn’t thrilled once she was finished, at least he didn’t look too upset.

“Well, I can’t be angry as long as it was an accident on your part,” he said, his tone a bit tight. “I don’t appreciate Steele taking advantage of the situation like that, though. I may need to have a talk with him.”

“Don’t do that,” she quickly said. “Please. The whole thing was embarrassing enough.”

Micah was silent for a moment, and then he said, “Okay, I’ll let it go this time. But if he does anything like that again, I plan to handle it.”

Looping her arm through his, Zaylie leaned her head over on his shoulder and said, “Thanks for not being too mad.”

Micah kissed her on the forehead. After a moment, he chuckled lightly and said, “I guess I can’t blame the guy for trying. You are, after all, the kind of woman every man dreams about.”

Zaylie looked up at Micah and grinned. “Yeah, they call those kinds of dreams nightmares,” she teased.

Micah laughed, his blue eyes twinkling. “Well, you’re the most beautiful nightmare I’ve ever seen,” he murmured just before leaning in for a kiss.

As he cupped her cheek and tenderly kissed her, Zaylie inwardly sighed. They’d been dating for nearly four months this time, but it often felt like they’d never stopped. Now that Zaylie knew she could trust him, she’d opened her heart again and couldn’t be happier.

“You know, there’s something I’ve been meaning to tell you,” Micah said, pulling back slightly.

“What’s that?” she asked, tilting her head.

With a warm smile, Micah trailed a finger along the side of her face and said, “I love you.”

Zaylie felt her breath catch, and she blinked. She’d been waiting to hear those words, even longed for them, but now that he’d finally said it, she almost felt a little frightened. Were they allowing their past to cause them to move too quickly?

Stop overthinking, Layne, she told herself.

Smiling softly, Zaylie leaned forward until their lips were almost touching once again. “I love you, too,” she whispered.

CHAPTER 7

The Deceiver

I have a secret; I’ve had it for years. No one suspects, though, and that’s the way I like to keep it. I have to be very cautious, however. I have to watch what I say or people would become very suspicious, and I can’t have anyone digging too deeply into the past.

I’m heading to a quiet, discreet place now to meet with someone. We have a plan that we need to discuss, but we must be very careful not to be seen. If anyone sees us together, our cover would very likely be blown and everything would be ruined.

The secret I hide isn’t one I’m particularly proud of, but it’s necessary for survival. I keep up a good façade; I pretend to be something I’m not. I’m like an actor on a stage; I play a part to get what I want. No one suspects a thing, and I’ll do whatever it takes to keep it that way.

Even if I have to kill for it.

----------

Leslie

It was the night of January the 2nd, and Leslie couldn’t believe she’d allowed herself to be talked into this. She, Myles, and Sergeant were at a massive warehouse in the middle of nowhere, and they were trespassing…which meant they would be shot if discovered, according to the sign posted outside.

“Tell me again why you couldn’t just get a search warrant for this place,” she hissed under her breath as Myles picked the lock at one of the back doors.

“Because if I’m wrong about where Roberts is storing the stuff, he’ll realize we’re onto him,” Myles replied.

The lock clicked, and Leslie held her breath, waiting for the security system to alarm as Myles pushed the door open. Much to her surprise, they were only met with silence.

“There’s no security system?” she asked in surprise.

“Only cameras,” Myles replied.

The blood left her face at his words. “Cameras?” she gasped, immediately looking upward.

“Relax,” he said, turning to give her an impatient look. “They’re taken care of, okay? I have a friend.”

“Well, at least you have one,” Leslie replied sarcastically.

Ignoring her comment, Myles stepped into the dark room and Leslie followed. After clicking on his flashlight, Myles shone the beam around and Leslie realized they were in what appeared to be the office storeroom. Boxes, shelves, and filing cabinets filled the majority of the room with a few crates stacked off to one side. Another door was straight ahead, and Leslie guessed it led out into the main warehouse.

“Are y’all ready?” Myles asked, glancing down at Sergeant.

Leslie wasn’t sure if she or the dog were ready. Her hands were shaking so badly she could barely hold on to his leash, and Sergeant was looking warily around the room with his tail down. He hadn’t worked since her father was killed, and Leslie wasn’t certain he was capable of doing so anymore.

“You ready for this, boy?” she asked softly, reaching down to rub his ears.

Sergeant looked up at her, his eyes a bit guarded but trusting. She wasn’t her father, but she was the closest thing to him, and Sergeant loved her for it. He slept at the end of her bed every night with one of her dad’s old t-shirts, and he rarely left her side. He missed her dad just as much as she did, and in that moment, Leslie wished her father were by her side. He’d been so good at his job. What had happened on that last job to make things go so terribly wrong? They never knew who killed him, and not having closure was something that bothered Leslie more than she cared to admit.

Taking a deep breath, Leslie stood up a little straighter and said, “Okay, Sergeant. Search.”

The large German Shepherd only hesitated for a split second before putting his nose to the ground. Leslie’s heart pounded with both relief and pride as she watched him get to work, and she quickly followed behind as he made his way through the room.

The search of the storeroom didn’t take long. After only a few short moments, Sergeant led them out into the warehouse. It was cold and dark, and the sound of their footsteps on the hard floor echoed eerily throughout the massive building. When the beam from Myles’ flashlight caught a group of rats just up ahead, Leslie gasped. The large, gnarly-looking creatures were gathered around a pile of trash, and they barely flinched at the presence of humans. Instead, they turned to look at them with harsh, beady eyes, as if daring them to come closer.

“No night guard?” Leslie asked as they moved in the opposite direction of the rats.

“Only on the weekends,” Myles replied.

“Why does Roberts own a warehouse?” she wanted to know.

“He doesn’t, but one of his shadier friends does,” he replied.

They made their way forward in silence, both watching with anxious anticipation as Sergeant thoroughly searched the place. Each time he hesitated at a crate or showed extra interest in a stack of boxes, Myles would tense up. He insisted on searching each area, although Leslie said there was no use.

“He didn’t alert me to a find,” she would tell him, but Myles would just ignore her.

It took over four hours to search the building, and by the time they were finished, they were all exhausted. As they walked back across the warehouse in the direction of the storeroom, Leslie could sense Myles’ frustration.

“Maybe you were wrong about Roberts,” she told him.

“I’m not wrong,” he snapped.

Leslie sighed. “Well, is there somewhere else he could be storing the drugs?”

Myles didn’t answer, and she felt herself becoming annoyed. Why did he always have to shut down when something didn’t go the way he thought it would? She was tired and overly tense, and she felt herself getting angrier than she should. Before she could give him a piece of her mind, however, Sergeant suddenly stopped dead in his tracks. Looking down at him in confusion, Leslie noticed his ears were twitching and he was staring straight ahead toward the storeroom.

“Did he find something?” Myles asked with a hint of excitement.

Suddenly, the sound of a door closing met their ears, and Leslie thought her heart was going to drop completely out of her chest. She stood there, frozen in place, as she listened to the undeniable click of approaching footsteps.

“Come on!” Myles hissed, grabbing her by the arm.

Snapping out of her stupor, Leslie allowed Myles to shove her and Sergeant behind a nearby crate. She crouched down just as the storeroom door opened, and she wrapped her arms around Sergeant’s neck, hoping he wouldn’t bark. Myles stood at the edge of the crate, his gun drawn as he peered around the corner.

“Where are the lights?” a voice echoed out.

No one answered, but seconds later there was a sudden click and the warehouse was flooded in lights. Myles pressed himself against the crate, giving Leslie a look that said, “Don’t move.” Sergeant wiggled a bit beneath her fingers, and she tightened her grip around his neck.

“The place seems to be empty,” the same voice spoke out once again.

“Why was the back door unlocked?” another asked. “And why are the cameras offline?”

“Joe must have forgotten to lock the back door when he left,” the first man replied. “And who knows about the cameras? The Wi-Fi is pretty spotty around here.”

Silence filled the air once again, and then their ears were met with the sound of footsteps. The men obviously decided to look around a bit more, and they were heading right toward their hiding place. The closer they got, the more Sergeant’s body stiffened. Leslie knew this was similar to what happened with her dad. She kept a firm arm around his stomach while gently rubbing his neck with her other hand, hoping the dog wouldn’t lose it.

She could see their shadows along the floor; they were getting closer. She watched Myles, her heart pounding as he raised his gun and pressed his back against the crate. Leslie knew he wouldn’t shoot without trying to explain first, but what if they didn’t give him a chance to explain? Her entire body was shaking as the click of their footsteps grew louder and louder.

Suddenly, the shadows stopped, and the clicking ceased. The warehouse grew deathly silent, and Leslie held her breath, hoping the men couldn’t hear the way her heart pounded.

“What’s wrong?” one man asked.

“Rats,” the other hissed. “I hate rats. Come on, let’s get out of here.”

“Okay,” the first man said with a sigh. “Doesn’t look like anyone is here anyway.”

The shadows turned and disappeared, and after a moment, the door to the storeroom closed and the warehouse was quiet once again.

“That was a close one,” Myles whispered as he put his gun back in its holster.

“Tell me about it,” Leslie stated with a long sigh of relief. She gave Sergeant a hug and then stood to her feet. “How do we get out of here now? I’m sure they locked the back door.”

“I’ll let you and Sergeant out and then I’ll climb out one of the windows,” he replied.

They waited a good fifteen minutes to make sure the men were gone before making their way back to the storeroom. As they left their hiding place, Leslie glanced to the left to see three massive rats scurrying away. For once in her life, she was grateful for the disgusting creatures.

CHAPTER 8

Zaylie walked into Mary Glover’s antique store, Whispers from the Past, and did a bit of browsing while Mrs. Mary helped another customer. It was the 3rd of January, and Mrs. Mary had called to say that the old armoire Zaylie had put on consignment a few weeks ago had sold.

The bell over the front door jingled as the customer left, and Mrs. Mary said, “Let me get your money, Zaylie, and I’ll be right back.”

Seconds later, she returned from the back room with a wad of cash. “I’ll let you know as soon as that rocking chair sells,” she stated as she handed Zaylie the money.

“Thanks, Mrs. Mary,” Zaylie said with a smile. Glancing around the store, she asked, “You don’t happen to have a bookcase in the back, do you? The one in our living room was ruined when we had that leaky pipe a few months ago and I’ve been looking for another one.”

Mrs. Mary thought it over and then shook her head. “I don’t have one right now, but Danette actually called me early this morning to let me know she has some more furniture she wants to sell. I believe one of the pieces is a black cathedral bookcase. Would you like to drive out there with me and take a look? If you like it, you can just buy it straight from her.”

“That would be great, Mrs. Mary,” Zaylie said with a nod.

Twenty minutes later, Zaylie turned her car down the Herbert driveway for the third time that week. Mrs. Mary was just ahead of her, and as the two parked in front of the mansion, Zaylie noticed how quiet the place seemed. No other cars were around, and no gardeners or workers could be seen about the place.

“I hope Danette is home,” Mrs. Mary muttered as they climbed up the brick stairs that led up to the elaborate front door. “I didn’t think to call before we came.”

It was hard to imagine that just a few days ago the house was alive with music and chatter. Now, it barely felt like the same place. It was so quiet and barren that Zaylie almost began to feel a little uneasy.

When they reached the front door, Mrs. Mary rang the doorbell and waited for someone to open the door. Suddenly, a scream sounded from inside, followed by a loud thumping sound. With wide eyes, Mrs. Mary immediately tried the door handle, but it was locked.

“L-look for a hidden key,” she stammered, and Zaylie quickly began looking underneath nearby flowerpots. They were in luck; a shiny key sparkled just beneath a large poinsettia.

With trembling fingers, Mrs. Mary took the key, pushed it into the lock, and opened the front door. When they stepped inside and their eyes adjusted to the dim lighting, they both gasped. There, lying at the bottom of the giant staircase, was Mrs. Danette.

“Danette, what happened?” Mrs. Mary cried as they rushed toward the motionless woman.

A bloody gash oozed from her head, and by the dazed look in Danette’s eyes, she was almost unconscious. When Mrs. Mary kneeled down and grabbed her hand, however, her eyes flew open wide and she looked up at Mary with an expression that sent chills down Zaylie’s spine.

“R-run,” Danette rasped in a frantic tone. “Or you…you might be n-next.”

Just then, a sound from the area of the kitchen echoed through the house, and both women froze. Zaylie peered down the dark hallway that led to the kitchen, but saw nothing.

“Hannah?” she called out. “Hannah, if that’s you, we need help!”

When no one answered, Mrs. Mary looked back down at Danette and gasped. Danette was unconscious; possibly even dead.

“I’ll call 9-1-1,” Zaylie said.

With jerky movements, she grabbed her purse and searched for her cell phone, her heart pounding. If they didn’t get help soon, Mrs. Danette might die…if she wasn’t already dead.

Zaylie had just finished explaining what happened to the 911 operator and ended the call when they heard another bump coming from the back of the house.

With a ghostly pale face, Mrs. Mary said in a whispered, trembling voice, “I think…I think someone is in the house.”

“I’ll check it out,” Zaylie replied, desperately wishing Smutti was with her.

“No!” Mary said, reaching out quickly to grab Zaylie’s arm. “It might be him.”

Zaylie’s brow furrowed and she asked, “Who?”

“Basil,” was Mary’s whispered reply.

The way she said his name caused Zaylie to pause momentarily in confusion. She’d said it with such familiarity, as if it hadn’t been years since she’d last seen him, that Zaylie forgot for a second that “Basil” was the name of the escaped prisoner. The escaped murderer.

Glancing around, Zaylie grabbed a large and very heavy silver candlestick. Holding it up like a weapon, she whispered, “I’ll be careful,” and tiptoed toward the kitchen.

There were no lights on in the hall that led into the kitchen, and Zaylie felt the darkness closing in on her like a tomb. Other than the faint sound of Mrs. Mary crying in the foyer behind her, the house was silent. Where was Hannah or Ernie? The house felt like a graveyard, and Zaylie’s heart pounded as she neared the kitchen door. Was someone hiding just on the other side? Was he waiting to pounce on Zaylie the second she stepped foot through the doorway?

With one trembling hand, Zaylie pushed the kitchen door open. The candlestick was raised high above her head as she peered inside the massive kitchen, but all seemed silent. Easing through the doorway, she looked around, taking in the huge, special-made paneled refrigerator, antique buffet and hutch, and marble countertops. Everything was spotless, and there seemed to be no sign of anyone anywhere about. The place seemed deserted, but why had Mrs. Danette acted as if someone pushed her down the stairs? Had it really been an accident, and she’d simply gotten confused?

Suddenly, a bumping noise sounded just to Zaylie’s left, and she spun around with wide eyes. Upon realizing it was an open kitchen window and shutter that was bumping in the breeze, she breathed a sigh of relief. Was that what she and Mrs. Mary heard? As Zaylie went over to look out the window, the thought crossed her mind that perhaps an intruder had entered the house this way.

Just then, Zaylie heard the sound of approaching sirens. As she hurried back through the house, she wondered what exactly had happened here today.

CHAPTER 9

The ambulance rushed Mrs. Danette to the hospital, and Mrs. Mary followed. Zaylie stayed behind to tell Bill everything that had happened, and as she was finishing up with her statement, Hannah hurried into the house with a concerned expression.

“What’s going on here?” she demanded. “Has something else happened to Danette?”

Bill quickly explained the details, and Zaylie noticed how tense and worried Hannah looked.

“I was afraid something like this would happen someday,” she moaned, reaching up to rub her temple. “I shouldn’t have left her alone after what happened the other night.”

“What do you mean?” Bill wanted to know.

“The incident with her blood sugar dropping,” Hannah stated matter-of-factly. “I’m sure that’s what caused her to fall down the stairs.”

“Mrs. Danette acted as if someone was in the house and pushed her,” Zaylie spoke up. “She was awake briefly when we got here, and she begged us to leave while we had the chance.”

Her lips pulling into a taunt line, Hannah nodded and said, “She becomes very confused during those occurrences. Please overlook anything strange that she might have said and understand that she’s simply not herself.”

“One window in the kitchen was open,” Zaylie said, not willing to give up just yet. “I thought an intruder might have forced it open and entered that way.”

Giving Zaylie an impatient look, Hannah said, “I opened that window myself this morning when I was airing out the kitchen. May I go to the hospital now, Sheriff? I’d like to know if Danette is going to be okay.”

“Just one more question,” he replied. “Where were you when the incident occurred?”

Raising an eyebrow, Hannah said, “I was at the market; my grocery bags are still in the car.”

Bill nodded. “I’ll help you bring them inside, and then you can go to the hospital.”

As Bill helped carry in the groceries, Ernie showed up. His hair was mussed, and he wore a pair of bikers shorts and a hoodie.

“What’s going on?” he immediately asked.

“Ernie, where have you been?” Hannah snapped. “I’ve tried to call you twice in the last ten minutes.”

Holding up his cell phone, Ernie said, “My battery is dead.”

“Danette had an accident,” Bill explained. “She fell down the stairs and was taken to the hospital.”

Ernie’s eyes widened. “What?” he gasped. “Is…is she okay?”

“We’re not sure yet,” Bill replied. “Where were you, if you don’t mind my asking?”

“I’ve been riding around the island all morning,” he replied as he ran a trembling hand through his hair.

“Your car was in the garage when I got home from the market just now,” Hannah stated with one eyebrow raised.

“I took one of the bikes in the shed,” he snapped, giving Hannah a hard look. After a moment of tense silence, he cleared his throat and said, “Look, I need to get to the hospital and make sure my cousin is okay, so please excuse me.”

After they were both gone, Bill walked Zaylie to her car. “There seemed to be a bit of tension between those two,” Zaylie stated.

Bill nodded in agreement. “Yeah, it was a little awkward if you ask me,” he replied. Looking at Zaylie, he asked, “Do you honestly think someone pushed Danette down those stairs?”

Zaylie shrugged. “Danette was pretty indignant when she told us we might be next,” she replied. “Mrs. Mary was convinced Basil Lockwood was in the house.”

“Zaylie, we don’t even know if he’s on the island,” Bill stated. “Do you think she’s just being a little paranoid?”

Zaylie shrugged. “She was pretty shaken up,” she replied. “By the way, if you want to do another search, just let me know. It’s a creepy feeling knowing a murderer could be lurking around here somewhere.”

Bill nodded. “Will do.”

As Zaylie got into her car and drove away from the house, she glanced in the rearview mirror and felt an odd sense of unease sweep over her. It was almost as if something dark and ominous lurked somewhere inside that house, but she shook the feeling away and told herself not to jump to any conclusions.

CHAPTER 10

The Shadow

It’s dark, and I’m quietly walking through the neighborhood. A storm is coming; I can feel it in the air. No one is out and about, but when a random car turns down the street and heads toward me, I quickly duck behind a nearby tree. I don’t want anyone to see me.

The car passes, and I hear the sound of voices. Peering around the tree, I see an elderly couple sitting on their front porch, drinking coffee. Glancing at the house beside me, I sneak into the backyard and close the gate behind me. I walk through the yard, careful not to make any sound, when a light from inside the house clicks on. I look through the open window to see a woman standing in the living room. She’s beautiful, and I stop to watch her for a moment. I notice the way her body moves as she wipes the furniture with a dust rag. Her hair falls softly around her shoulders, and she’s humming under her breath. She has a beautiful voice, and I imagine…

Suddenly, the rumble of thunder distracts us both. The woman looks toward the window with a look of concern, and I hasten into the shadows. I watch as she walks to the window, looks up at the sky, and then closes the casement behind her. She then draws the curtains, and I continue through the yard.

I’m getting closer to fulfilling my plan, and I smile as I think how good it’s going to feel. People must pay for what they do, and it won’t be long now before justice is served.

----------

Zaylie

Later that night, Zaylie and Gran were getting ready for bed when a sudden storm popped up. The wind rattled the windows and howled through the oak trees outside, and when Zaylie checked her phone, she was surprised to see they were under a tornado watch.

“A tornado?” Gran gasped when Zaylie told her. “What should we do? Get in the hallway? Or maybe the tub?”

If her grandmother hadn’t looked so panicked, Zaylie might have laughed at the way she was darting around the room like a frantic bird searching for a place to land.

“It’s not a warning, Gran,” she said, placing a hand on her grandmother’s elbow. “It’s just a watch; a tornado hasn’t been spotted yet.”

“Not yet,” Gran retorted. Glancing toward the kitchen, she began hurrying that way as she called over her shoulder, “I’ll grab some supplies, just in case we need them.”

Zaylie shook her head and sighed. At that exact moment, her phone rang.

“Hi, Rita. What’s up?” Zaylie asked when she answered the call.

“Did you see that we’re under a tornado watch?” Rita all but shrieked. “What should I do? Should I go over to Dad’s or Ryker’s? I don’t want to come over there with all those trees around your house.”

Zaylie couldn’t help but laugh. Rita might have lived on her own for several years in big metropolitan cities, but she still lost her mind when a storm was nearby.

“Are you and Gran twins?” she chuckled. “Look, we’re not in any real danger yet because it’s just a watch instead of a warning. If you would feel better at your dad’s or Ryker’s, though, just go ahead.”

“I think I’ll go to Ry…oh, never mind, he’s out on a date.” Rita moaned. “I guess I’ll call Dad first before I go over just to make sure you-know-who isn’t there.”

Zaylie laughed again. “You haven’t talked your dad into breaking up with her yet?” she asked.

Rita sighed heavily. “Ugh, no. I declare, I’m going to start calling her Helen the hellion,” she stated.

Suddenly, there was a loud noise on the other end of the line, and Rita yelped.

“What was that?” Zaylie wanted to know.

“This crazy wind blew my back door open,” Rita replied, her voice trembling a bit. “You know how rickety it is; I really need to ask Ryker to fix it.”

At the mention of her brother, it finally sunk in what Rita had said about him earlier. “Did you say Ryker is on a date?” Zaylie asked.

“Yeah, a blind date of all things,” Rita replied, and Zaylie could hear her friend shoving the back door shut. “One of his friends in the Navy called Ryker and told him his sister-in-law or cousin or something is in Savannah and asked Ryker if he'd take her out.”

“So, it’s not really a date then,” Zaylie clarified. “It’s just a favor for a friend.”

“No, she’s supposed to be this gorgeous-looking model type, and the guy told Ryker she’s ready for something serious,” Rita replied. “He texted me when he got to the restaurant and said his friend was right, that she really is gorgeous. I think he was expecting her to be 7’ tall, with a wart on the end of her nose or something.”

As Rita talked, the kiss she’d shared with Ryker on New Year’s Eve suddenly flitted through Zaylie’s mind and she felt a warm flush spread all over her body. Immediately pushing the feeling away, she cleared her throat and said, “Well, if it works out between them, hopefully she’ll be able to keep him straight.”

“I was hoping the two of you…”

Rita’s voice trailed off, and Zaylie heard a gasp on the other end. Rolling her eyes, she asked drolly, “What happened now? Did another door blow…”

“Zaylie, someone is in my shed in the backyard,” Rita interrupted, her voice filled with concern.

Zaylie blinked. “What?” she asked.

“The light is on, and I just saw a shadow move across the window. I…wait, what was that?”

Zaylie’s ear was pressed so tightly against the phone that the side of her head was starting to ache. “What’s going on?” she demanded.

“I-I think someone is in the house,” Rita hissed in a trembling whisper.

Before Zaylie could process what was happening, Rita screamed and the line went dead.

CHAPTER 11

With panic shooting through her veins, Zaylie frantically tried to call Rita back, but the call kept going straight to voicemail. Sometimes cell phone reception on the island could be spotty, especially during storms, and when Zaylie tried to call Bill with no success, she felt like screaming with frustration.

“I’m going over to Rita’s,” she called out to Gran, not waiting around to hear all the reasons why she shouldn’t be going out on a night like this.

Zaylie drove as fast as she dared to her friend’s house, her hands gripping the steering wheel tightly. The night was pitch black, as several of the streetlights had gone out, and the wind and rain beat against Zaylie’s car like the pounding of a thousand drums. At one point, she almost hydroplaned, and her breath caught as her car was snatched across the road after hitting a pool of water. She was able to straighten back up without losing control, and she continued on her way a bit slower after that.

When Zaylie finally arrived at Rita’s house, she noticed how dark the entire neighborhood was and realized the electricity must have gone out. With trembling hands, she grabbed a flashlight from the glove compartment and rushed through the rain toward the front door. By the time she made it to the porch, she was soaked. Ignoring the chill that swept over her, Zaylie slowly reached out a hand and turned the doorknob.

It twisted easily in her hand, and Zaylie pushed the front door open, her heart pounding as she peered into the dark house. She couldn’t hear a thing over the sound of the storm, and she could barely see past the hall tree that stood in the front entranceway. For a split second, its wooden arms looked like a person reaching out to her, and she took a step back with a gasp. When she realized it was just a lifeless old piece of furniture, she swallowed past the lump in her throat and slowly walked inside.

Careful not to make much noise, Zaylie eased the door closed behind her and stood in the foyer for a moment, listening. The ticking of the grandfather clock blended with the whistles of the wind, and when a tree branch suddenly slammed against a nearby window, Zaylie jumped.

Taking a deep breath, Zaylie slowly began to make her way through the house. Dare she call out to Rita? Was her friend okay, or had something terrible happened? All Zaylie could think about was Mrs. Danette’s accident, and she wondered if Mrs. Mary was right in her assumption that Basil Lockwood really was here after all.

Suddenly, the kitchen door swung open, and a light was shined into Zaylie’s eyes just as a large shadow moved her way. With a yelp, Zaylie raised her flashlight above her head and got ready to swing.

“Whoa, there, superwoman,” a familiar voice spoke into the darkness.

“Ryker!” Zaylie gasped, her entire body relaxing. “What on earth is going on? Where is Rita?”

“Z-Zaylie?” Rita’s trembling voice spoke out from behind her brother’s shadow. “Is that you? We thought you were an intruder.”

“I thought there was an intruder here,” Zaylie stated with an exasperated huff. “Why did you scream and hang up on me? You nearly scared me half to death!”

“Like I told you, someone was in the house,” Rita replied. “I just didn’t realize it was Ryker.”

Eyeing the large, formidable figure before her, Zaylie pursed her lips and stated, “I thought you were on a date. What are you doing here? And where is your truck?”

“My date got sick right in the middle of our meal,” he replied. “Apparently, she didn’t realize she’s allergic to shellfish.”

Zaylie’s eyes widened. “Did she have to go to the hospital?” she wanted to know.

Ryker shook his head. “No, she was just sick to her stomach,” he said.

Zaylie raised an eyebrow and stated drolly, “It was probably you she realized she was allergic to.”

Ryker’s chuckle echoed in the darkness. “As for my truck,” he said, ignoring her comment, “it’s parked on the street. Your powers of observation are failing, Zaylie.”

“Well, I didn’t expect you to be here,” Zaylie snapped.

A mighty crack of thunder bellowed from the sky just then, shaking the house on its foundation. Rita leaped forward to grab Ryker’s arm, while Zaylie took a tentative step toward them.

“Looks like you’re stuck here with us until this thing blows over,” Ryker said, and Zaylie could see the gleam of satisfaction in his eyes sparkling in the beam of the flashlight.

“I shouldn’t have left Gran all alone,” she muttered, feeling guilty.

Taking her arm, Ryker led the two women back into the kitchen. “Smutti is with her, right? She’ll take care of her.”

A lantern shone from the kitchen table, creating a soft glow around the room. Rita grabbed some snacks while Ryker retrieved some drinks from the fridge, and the three sat around the table. While grabbing a candy bar with one hand, Zaylie texted Gran with the other, hoping the message would go through. Seconds later, Gran texted back.

“Micah is here with me.”

Zaylie blinked in surprise and immediately checked her phone for any missed messages from her boyfriend; there were none.

“What’s he doing there?” she asked.

“He said he was on his way home from work and the storm was so bad that he decided to stop here and wait it out,” Gran replied. “He was also worried about us. Isn’t he the sweetest? We’re playing Old Maid right now.”

Zaylie was surprised that Micah hadn’t already texted and scolded her for going out in such bad weather. As if reading her mind, Gran sent her another message.

“I didn’t tell him you left during the storm; I simply said you were over at Rita’s…I figured hearing my lecture once you get home would be enough.”

Zaylie grinned and rolled her eyes. “You are so thoughtful.”

Ignoring her sarcasm, Gran asked, “Is Rita okay? You rushed out so fast, I didn’t get a chance to ask what was going on.”

“Yes, everything is fine. I’ll explain later.”

As Zaylie tucked her phone back into her pocket, a thought suddenly struck her and she asked, “Rita, why did you think someone was in your shed?”

Rita’s eyes widened, and she raised a hand to her mouth with a gasp. “With everything that was going on, I completely forgot about that!”

With a frown, Ryker asked, “What? Someone was in your shed?”

Rita nodded. “Yes, when I was talking to Zaylie on the phone, my back door blew open. When I came in here to shut it, I saw that the light was on in my shed and then a shadow passed across the window.”

“A shadow?” Ryker questioned, his brow furrowing as he stood up to look out the back window. “Like a person’s shadow?”

Rita and Zaylie joined him, all three peering out into the darkness. The back yard was so dark that it was impossible to tell if anyone was out there. Suddenly, a flash of lightning lit the sky, and it appeared the rain had slackened just a bit.

“I’m going to go check it out,” Ryker stated as he grabbed a flashlight.

“No!” Rita gasped. “At least wait until the storm has passed.”

“I don’t like the idea of someone lurking around out there,” Ryker replied, pulling his arm away. “Or who knows, it could be someone seeking shelter from the storm and that shed leaks like a faucet. I won’t be long.”

Both women stood in the open doorway and watched as Ryker jogged toward the shed at the back of the yard. The rain might have let up a bit, but the wind still howled angrily. Flashes of lightning continued to light up the yard momentarily, and the moving shadows of trees and bushes as they stirred in the wind sent a chill of foreboding up Zaylie’s spine.

The beam of Ryker’s flashlight bounced along the ground as he neared the little building, and Zaylie pointed her own light in that direction as well. Suddenly, the shed door flew open and a large figure ran out. Rita screamed, and Zaylie’s heart caught as she watched Ryker immediately take pursuit. The man took a flying leap as he grabbed for the wooden fence that separated Rita’s yard from her neighbor’s. In a split second, Ryker was upon him. He grabbed the man’s hoodie and yanked him off the fence with such force that Zaylie wondered if the man had been knocked unconscious.

He wasn’t.

The intruder jumped to his feet and faced Ryker in an ominous stance. His fists were raised, and through the darkness, Zaylie spotted a knife in his hand. She kept her flashlight trained on the two men as she hurried forward, ready to help if Ryker needed her. She stopped dead in her tracks, however, when the fighting began, and her eyes grew wide as she watched. It was unlike anything she’d ever witnessed before.

Fists flew so rapidly they were almost too quick for the human eye. The knife in the man’s hand sliced through the air with the swiftness of a bullet, but Ryker quickly dodged the sharp blade each time. He’d bragged before about his special SEAL training, but she’d never actually seen him in action before. Until now. The only problem was the man he was fighting seemed to be highly trained in martial arts.

With one swift movement, Ryker managed to grab the man in a headlock and disarm him. Zaylie saw him toss the knife somewhere in the grass behind him just as his opponent flipped him over his head. Zaylie gasped, watching as Ryker landed on the ground with a thud, only to jump quickly back onto his feet once again. The man then spun around with lightning speed, leaping into the air with a roundhouse kick. Ryker deftly blocked the kick and, grabbing the man around the neck, slammed him backwards onto the ground.

Suddenly, lightning flashed through the sky, striking the tree above the two men with a monstrous boom. A limb separated from the tree and crashed to the ground, striking Ryker’s shoulder on its way down. With a stagger, Ryker slumped to the ground next to the limb and lay there, unmoving.

CHAPTER 12

Seizing the opportunity, the man jumped to his feet and raced through the yard, where he leaped over the fence with the swiftness of a panther. Her heart pounding, Zaylie ran toward Ryker, reaching his side in record time. It was starting to rain heavily once again, and she could barely see through the water that streamed down her face. She fell to her knees and shined the flashlight directly into his face.

“I’m already injured; you don’t have to blind me, too,” he grumbled, and she blew out a sigh of relief.

“Ryker!” Rita screeched as she raced through the yard toward them.

“Help me up before she pummels me,” he said, reaching up to grasp Zaylie’s arm.

“Is he okay?” Rita gasped when she reached their side.

Zaylie nodded, handing her friend the flashlight as she helped Ryker stand. Thunder and lightning continued to pop all around them, and the three hurried through the yard and into the house as quickly as possible.

“I’ve been trying to call the police, but I can’t get the call to go through,” Rita said as they stepped into the dark kitchen. “What’ll we do? What if that horrible man comes back?”

“He won’t come back,” Ryker stated as he pulled his arm away from Zaylie.

Planting her hands on her hips, Rita declared, “Well, you certainly didn’t scare him off! I thought he was going to kill you.”

“The man had a knife and is apparently a martial arts expert,” Ryker retorted. “I’d say I did pretty well for myself since I’m actually still alive.”

“Who was it, Ryker?” Zaylie asked, her mind still whirling after everything that had happened. “Did you recognize him?”

Ryker nodded. “It was Basil Lockwood.”

Both women gasped, and Zaylie quickly reached out to steady Rita as her friend swayed on her feet.

“Are you sure?” Zaylie questioned in disbelief.

“Bill showed me his picture a few days ago,” he replied. “I’m sure.”

Grabbing her keys and flashlight, Zaylie said, “I’m going to the police station; Bill needs to know that Basil is on the island.”

Ryker shook his head. “I’ll go,” he insisted.

Making a point to look at his shoulder, which Ryker continued to rub, she stated, “You can’t drive, Ryker. Your shoulder may be broken.” Her eyes widened when she realized his nose was bleeding as well. “Your nose, too,” she added.

“My shoulder is not broken, and my nose is fine,” he said stubbornly.

“Okay,” she replied with a sigh. “You can go with me, but I’m driving.”

“Y’all aren’t leaving me here by myself!” Rita cried. “I’m coming, too.”

After making sure the house was locked up tight, the three raced through the rain and jumped into Zaylie’s car. They’d barely made past the entrance of Rita’s subdivision when they realized the main road leading into town was flooded and too dangerous to drive on.

“This is unbelievable,” Zaylie stated as she slowly drove back to Rita’s house. “An escaped prisoner was hiding in Rita’s backyard and we happen to be right in the middle of a monsoon and can’t get any help.”

“An escaped murderer,” Rita corrected with a shiver.

Looking out through the windshield, Ryker said, “It looks like it’s finally starting to let up, though. Hopefully, cell service will be back soon so we can at least call Bill.”

“What on earth was he doing in my shed?” Rita continued to rant. “And just how long had he been there? It gives me the complete heebie-jeebies just thinking about it.”

“Yeah, and where’s he gone now?” Zaylie wanted to know, her mind immediately going to Gran. She desperately wished she could let her grandmother know what happened, but she was thankful that at least Micah was there with her.

The three went back inside Rita’s house and waited, each on pins and needles. Ryker paced around the kitchen with an ice pack on his shoulder, while Rita sat on a barstool and nervously bit her nails.

“Who did this Basil person kill, anyway?” Rita suddenly asked.

“Danette Herbert-Lee’s brother,” Zaylie replied.

“What happened?” Rita wanted to know.

“Apparently, Basil was always the bad boy type, and Danette’s brother didn’t think their cousin should be dating someone like him,” Ryker spoke up. When Zaylie looked at him in surprise, he shrugged and said, “Bill told me.”

“What else did he tell you?” she asked, wondering why Bill explained the situation to Ryker, but never mentioned any of it to her during their search a few days ago.

“He said the two men got into a fight at a July 4th party, and the next morning, Mrs. Danette’s brother was found lying in a ditch with a bashed in head.”

Rita’s eyes were wide as she listened. “How did they know Basil was the one who killed him?”

“Bill said the police found a bloody baseball bat in Basil’s trunk,” Ryker said, and Rita shivered. “The blood was Rand Herbert’s, and Basil’s fingerprints were all over the murder weapon.”

“Wow,” Rita muttered, rubbing her arms. “It’s starting to make sense now why Mrs. Mary is convinced Basil pushed Mrs. Danette down the stairs.”

“Bill really needs to know what happened tonight,” Zaylie said with a heavy sigh. “The more time that passes, the more chance Basil has at getting away.”

“Or at hurting someone else,” Ryker stated.

An hour passed, and then another. The wind and lightning died down, but the rain continued until well after midnight. Zaylie continuously tried to call Bill until her phone died, and she wondered how long they would have to wait for the flooding on the streets to subside.

“Now that the rain has finally stopped, we should be able to get out of here by morning,” Ryker said as he stared out into the dark night.

Zaylie stood beside him on the front porch while Rita snored on the living room sofa. She was tired as well, but her mind was filled with too many thoughts to get any sleep. She hoped Gran, Smutti, and Micah were okay, as well as Bill and the rest of her friends. The storm was fierce and had most likely caused some damage, but the thought of an escaped murderer creeping around the island made her skin crawl.

“You should try to get some sleep,” Ryker said, the rumbling of his deep voice oddly comforting.

“I couldn’t sleep if I tried,” she replied, closing her eyes as a cool breeze whispered over her skin. After a moment, she opened her eyes and looked up at Ryker’s large silhouette. “How is your shoulder feeling?”

“Sore,” he replied, “but since I can move it, I think it’s just going to be badly bruised.”

“Good.”

At her soft reply, Ryker turned toward her and asked teasingly, “Were you worried about me, Miss Layne?”

Zaylie smiled. “Sure,” she quipped. “I wouldn’t want our conquering hero to be injured. What if the bad guy returned? Rita and I are two helpless damsels, after all.”

Ryker chuckled. “Helpless? Definitely not.” He took a step closer then, and lightly ran a finger up her arm. “I sort of like being your hero, though.”

Fighting off the shiver that shot up her spine, Zaylie slapped at his hand and moved away. “Stop that,” she told him. “I happen to have a boyfriend, you know.”

“Yes, but he’s not here,” Ryker replied, and Zaylie could hear the grin in his voice.

Zaylie sighed and shook her head. “You’re incorrigible,” she said. “Always trying to be a Casanova.”

“Not with everyone, though,” he replied, his voice deepening a bit.

A little unsure of what he meant, Zaylie asked, “What about that girl you went out with tonight? Are you going to see her again?”

“I might as well,” he muttered. Then he added with a chuckle, “Honestly, I doubt it. She’s not really my type. I prefer redheads.”

Knowing that he was baiting her, Zaylie raised an eyebrow and stated, “Good thing I’m not a redhead,” and then turned to go back inside.

“You’re a great kisser, though,” Ryker called after her with laughter in his voice.

Before closing the door in his face, Zaylie snapped, “Which is something you wouldn’t know anything about if I hadn’t thought you were Micah.”

As Zaylie stomped into the living room, Rita snorted and sat up. “Wha-what’s going on?” she slurred, still half asleep.

“As always, your brother managed to annoy me,” Zaylie replied with a sigh.

Rita tsked and said with a yawn, “It’s too bad I got all the charm in the family.”

Rita curled back up then and was asleep again in seconds. With a sigh, Zaylie sat on the loveseat and tried to relax. After the events of the night, she knew she was on edge. But did Ryker have to be so annoying?

The front door opened then, and Ryker stepped inside. His presence filled the house like a vapor, and when he walked through the room and into the kitchen with the silence and stealth of an Indian, she found herself wishing he’d stayed in the room with them. The house was quiet and so dark she could barely see her hand in front of her face, and the sudden sound of a screech owl raised the hair on the back of her neck. This was going to be a long night, and Zaylie only hoped they’d see the light of day without anymore surprises.

CHAPTER 13

Zaylie lightly dozed until dawn when the golden streams of morning light began to filter in through the living room windows. Sitting up, she looked around and saw that Rita was still asleep with one leg thrown across the back of the sofa and an arm dangling toward the floor. Her mouth was open and she snored lightly, and if Zaylie’s phone hadn’t been dead, she’d have taken a picture and used it later for blackmail.

Her eyes drifted toward the La-Z-Boy where Ryker had sat since early that morning. His eyes were open, and he was watching Zaylie with a slight smile on his face.

“Good morning, sleepyhead,” he said.

“Sleepyhead? I barely slept all night,” she replied as she stood up to stretch.

“Maybe not, but you’ve still got some serious bed head.” With a wink, he added, “Not that I’m complaining.”

Quickly smoothing down her hair, Zaylie ignored him and went over to look out the front door. The sky was clear and the sun was shining, which gave her hope that the roads would soon be drivable.

“Is the power still off?” she asked, reaching over to flip up the front porch light switch. She got her answer when nothing happened.

“Rita, wake up,” Ryker said as he threw a pillow at his sister’s head. “We need to try to get to town.”

With a moan, Rita stood up and walked to the kitchen like a zombie. Seconds later, she returned with such a forlorn expression that Zaylie feared she was about to cry.

“I can’t fix myself any coffee,” she stated.

“Poor baby.” Ryker snickered.

Giving him the death stare, Rita asked through gritted teeth, “How am I supposed to function without my coffee?”

Zaylie had to force back a laugh at the look on her friend’s face. Rita had never been a morning person, and Zaylie was convinced that if Basil Lockwood chose this moment to show up again, Rita would have no problem in scaring him away all on her own.

“There’s no time anyway,” Ryker told his sister. “Grab a banana and let’s get out of here.”

Zaylie grabbed one, too, and a few moments later, they all headed outside. Zaylie drove her car and followed Ryker as he and Rita stopped at the neighborhood entrance. From the looks of it, there appeared to be a tree lying across the road going toward Zaylie’s house, so she followed the twins into town. Thankfully, the flooding had subsided, but the electricity was still out in a lot of places, including many of the traffic lights. She was grateful they’d left as early as they did, as there was hardly any traffic.

When they arrived at the police station, Bill was pulling in at the exact same time. He climbed from his cruiser and looked at them in surprise.

“Is everything okay?” he immediately wanted to know.

The three took turns telling him what happened the night before, and once they were finished, Bill’s eyes were wide with shock. Shaking his head as if to clear it, he looked at Ryker and demanded in an exasperated tone, “You mean to tell me you came face to face with Basil Lockwood and he got away? What happened to all that special SEAL training you’re always bragging about?”

Ryker’s jaw clenched. “Look, the man might be old like you, but he fights like Jackie Chan,” he snapped. “I’m lucky to be alive.”

Bristling at Ryker’s statement, Bill opened his mouth to continue the argument when Zaylie interrupted. “Ryker got the knife away from him,” she said, “and I believe he would have eventually gotten the upper hand, but a tree limb hit him on the shoulder and knocked him to the ground. That’s the only reason Basil got away.”

Looking at her in surprise, Ryker said, “Thanks, Zaylie. I appreciate the support.”

With pursed lips, Bill grunted and said, “Okay. I’ll contact the Chatham County police and see how soon we can get some help over here. In the meantime, y’all need to go back home and plan to stay put for a while; there are a lot of downed power lines on the roads.”

“Do y’all have power here?” Zaylie wanted to know.

“Yes, we have a generator,” Bill replied.

“Is it okay if I hang out here for a while and charge my phone?” she asked. “I’m pretty eager to get in touch with Gran.”

Bill nodded. “Sure, come on inside.”

Waving goodbye to Rita and Ryker, Zaylie hurried into the warm station. After finding an available corner to plug her phone into, she fixed herself a cup of coffee and listened as Bill called the Chatham County police.

“Yes, he was spotted here on the island last night,” he said. “What? That’s impossible. No, not personally. Look, are you sure you can’t spare some men? Okay, yeah, I understand.”

With a sigh, Bill hung up and came out of his office wearing a mask of frustration.

“What happened?” Zaylie questioned.

“The FBI are convinced that Lockwood caught a ride to Alpharetta yesterday morning,” Bill replied. “They have him on camera or something. So, the Chatham County police said they can’t send any men over simply on the information of one individual who claims he saw Lockwood at night during a storm.”

“They think Ryker is lying?” Zaylie asked in surprise.

Bill shook his head. “No, just mistaken,” he replied. “Plus, he said they’re short-handed right now due to damage from the storm.”

Zaylie thought it over for a moment before asking, “Do you think Ryker is mistaken?”

“No,” was his immediate response. “Ryker is too well-trained to make a mistake like that.”

“So, what now?”

Bill chewed on his cheek for a moment before answering, his gaze thoughtful. Finally, he looked at Zaylie and said, “Once we get the island back up and running, I’m going to send some men out on patrol. Do you feel up to another search? I can think of a few more places where Lockwood might go to hide.”

“Definitely.” Zaylie nodded. “Just let me know when and I’ll be ready.”

Zaylie’s phone chimed then, and she realized it was finally charged enough to pick up a signal. She snatched it up and breathed a sigh of relief when she saw a new message from Gran.

“We are fine – never lost power,” she said. “Are y’all okay over there?”

As Zaylie was texting her back, the front door to the police station blew open and a familiar figure walked in. He carried himself with an air of confidence and assurance, and Zaylie could smell the five-hundred-dollar cologne all the way across the room.

“Sheriff, I need to report a break-in and robbery,” Harrison Taylor stated.

Bill raised his eyebrows in surprise. “Oh? What happened, Mr. Taylor?”

“I was with Danette at the hospital all night,” he replied, “but I came home this morning to check my yacht after that awful storm we had last night to find that several items have been stolen.”

Zaylie leaned forward in her chair, straining to hear the conversation. Harrison spoke in low, hushed tones, but she could still make out what was being said.

Pulling out a clipboard, Bill asked, “What was stolen exactly?”

Harrison sighed. “A vase, a couple of watches, a very expensive bottle of bourbon, and a computer, to name a few things,” he said. “There may be more, but I hurried over here before getting a complete inventory. I thought you’d want to come out immediately to check for fingerprints or something.”

Bill nodded. “I’ll get someone out there ASAP,” he said, jotting down a bit more information on the report. “How is Danette?”

“She’s been unresponsive ever since her arrival at the hospital,” Harrison replied, “but she seems to finally be coming around. She opened her eyes for a moment last night, and the doctors seem to think that’s a very good sign.”

As Harrison left, Zaylie thought about what he’d said. Could Basil Lockwood have been the culprit? She found it hard to believe that it could have been anyone else, as Whisper Island had very few break-ins.

Her cell phone chimed again, and just as Zaylie picked it up to read her newest text message, another thought struck her. How had Harrison gotten back to the island that morning when there was a tree blocking the main road?

CHAPTER 14

Leslie

It was getting dark outside, and the training center was closed for the day. Everyone had already gone home, except for Leslie; she still had some last-minute paperwork to finish up. Plus, she wanted to keep check on one of the new trainees for the next couple of hours; he’d gotten too stressed during one of his sessions and she was worried about him.

Leslie had just closed her computer when she thought she heard the sound of a car door shutting. With a frown, she got up from her desk and went to the window, wondering if one of the trainers had forgotten something. When she saw Officer Chad Roberts walking toward the center, her eyes widened. This was the police officer who Myles thought was involved in drugs.

Chad tried to open the door first before knocking, and Leslie glanced around for her phone, feeling a little uncomfortable. She hadn’t seen Chad in months and wondered why he was here. When he knocked a little harder, she hurried from her office and opened the front door.

“Chad,” she said, raising her eyebrows in surprise. “What are you doing here?”

“Hi, Leslie,” he greeted her with a smile. “How are you? Long time no see.”

Leslie had known Chad for years; his father was the sheriff, which was the main reason Myles was being so secretive about the investigation. Since the police department often used their dogs to train new officers, Leslie had been around Chad off and on ever since she’d started working at the training center. He’d always seemed nice enough, which made her wonder if Myles’ suspicions really were correct. Perhaps he’d grown tired of small-town life, though, and had bigger plans than to take over for his father someday as sheriff of Crescent Moon.

“I’m good,” she replied with a tight smile. “Just been busy. How…how are you?”

“The same.” Clearing his throat, he asked, “Hey, have you seen Myles lately?”

Leslie’s brow lowered slightly. “What’s going on, Chad?” she asked, ignoring his question. “We haven’t seen each other in months, and you show up after hours to ask if I’ve seen my ex-husband recently?”

Chad shook his head. “You always were straight to the point, weren’t you?” he chuckled. “Uh, I can’t go into any details, but Myles has been acting sort of strange lately. As you know, he doesn’t really have any friends, so I thought he might go to you if he needed help.”

With a shrug, Leslie stated nonchalantly, “I don’t know why you would think he’d come to me for anything. As you know, our relationship didn’t end on the best of terms.”

Chad was watching her closely, and Leslie had to force herself not to squirm. His eyes were narrowed and filled with a slight glint of suspicion, but Leslie held his gaze without wavering. She may have been cool and collected on the outside, but on the inside, her mind was whirling. What exactly was going on? Did Chad know Myles was onto him and that she’d helped search that warehouse? How did he find out about her involvement, though? And if Myles was right about him, just how dangerous was Officer Chad Roberts?

When he took a sudden step toward her, Leslie flinched and moved back. Just then, she felt a warm body press up against the back of her legs, and she glanced down to find Sergeant peering out at Chad. His ears were back and his tail down, and Leslie knew he could sense her unease.

“Hey, buddy,” Chad said, his serious expression breaking into a smile. “How are you?”

When Chad leaned forward to pet the dog, Sergeant growled and moved to stand between Leslie and the officer. With a frown, Chad immediately backed away and held up his hands in surrender.

“Looks like someone is in a bad mood tonight,” he said, forcing a small laugh. Looking at Leslie, he said, “I’ll leave you two alone, but if you hear from Myles, please let me know.”

Leslie simply nodded and closed the front door, quickly locking it behind her. She leaned against it for a moment, wondering what exactly had just happened. Sergeant sat at her feet and looked up at her questioningly, and she bent over to rub his ears.

“Good job, boy,” she told him. “Thanks for having my back.”

As Leslie listened to the sound of Chad’s car driving away, she went into her office and dug through her purse until she found her phone. She didn’t like the idea of contacting her ex, but Myles needed to know what was going on.

“Leslie?”

She could hear the note of surprise in Myles’ voice when he answered the phone.

“Guess who just paid me a visit,” she said.

“Who?”

“Chad,” she replied. “He asked if I’d seen you lately. Myles, I got the impression he knew we were at that warehouse the other night.”

“There’s no way he knows for certain,” he replied. “Did he say anything else?”

“He acted like he was going to, but Sergeant interrupted and scared him off,” she said, reaching down to rub the dog’s back.

“Scared him off? Was Chad threatening you?” he wanted to know.

“Not exactly,” she replied. “He was just acting a little weird.”

The fact that Myles seemed so concerned caught Leslie off guard, and she almost said something cynical, but then stopped herself. Whether Myles was worried about her or not didn’t matter. Not anymore.

“Well, anyway, I just thought you should know,” she said. “You’d better watch your back.”

“I will,” he replied. “Thanks, Les.”

Leslie ended the call and sat back in her chair with a sigh. Why did she have to feel so emotionally spent after talking to her ex for less than two minutes? Would she ever be able to move on?

A sound at the back of the training center caught her attention then, and when Sergeant immediately stood up and growl, Leslie’s whole body tensed. She tilted her head and listened, wondering if one of the dogs had simply knocked something over. Or had Chad come back? He could have easily driven away and left his car on the road while he circled around to the back. What would he want with her, though? It was Myles who was giving him the problem.

You and Sergeant are also a pretty big threat if he knows you’ve been helping Myles, she thought.

There it was again; a low thumping sound. Sergeant’s tail went down and he faced the office door, as if readying himself for trouble. Leslie quickly dug through the top drawer of her desk until she found the gun. It was her father’s gun; he’d taught her how to use it long ago. It had been a while, though, since she’d gone to the range, and she hoped her aim was still good.

“Come on, boy,” she whispered to Sergeant as she stepped from the office and headed toward the back of the building.

The large dog followed, sticking close to Leslie’s side. With a trembling hand, Leslie reached out to the door that led into the kennel area and pushed it open. She held the gun at her side and just stood quietly for a moment, listening. She could hear a couple of the dogs moving about in their kennels, but other than that, all was quiet.

There was a bit of low lighting in the large room, so Leslie did a quick walkthrough, just in case. Sergeant’s claws tapped along the concrete floor, stopping only when Leslie did. She paused at the stressed dog’s kennel, happy to see that he was completely relaxed and sound asleep. There didn’t seem to be any need for concern back here.

As Leslie made her toward the back door that led into the inside training area, she thought she heard the noise again and froze. Should she just give in and call Myles? Glancing down at the gun in her hand and the dog by her side, Leslie straightened her shoulders and took a deep breath. She was a cop’s daughter; she could take care of herself.

When Leslie stepped into the training area, she blinked in surprise. Usually a corner light was left on, but someone had turned off all the lights and she couldn’t see a thing. When Sergeant suddenly let out a loud bark, she jumped backward and gasped. Apparently, he could see something she couldn’t.

With a pounding heart, Leslie groped along the wall, searching for the light switch. Sergeant continued to bark, and the sound reverberated loudly through her head. Where were the light switches? Why hadn’t she thought to bring a flashlight? Over the sound of the dog’s barks, Leslie could still hear the thumping noise, and she thought it was getting closer.

Just then, her fingers found the light switch panel. She flipped them all up at once, flooding the room with light. She spun around, her eyes squinting as she quickly looked around to see…

Nothing. There was no one in the room but her and Sergeant. The thumping sounded again, and when Leslie looked up, she saw a small bird fluttering wildly around the ceiling.

“Oh, no, how did you get in here?” she asked as she hurried across the large room toward the back door. She was relieved that no one was lurking around back here, but she wasn’t exactly a bird wrangler either. She couldn’t leave the poor thing trapped inside, though, so she threw open the back door and began waving her arms, hoping to coerce the bird outside.

Just then, the snapping of a twig outside caught her attention, and she glanced out into the training yard. It was well-lit, and Leslie didn’t see any shadows or movement, but she was uneasy after Chad’s visit and her imagination immediately went wild. She pictured the large, hooded figure of a man standing among the tree line, watching her, and she shivered.

Suddenly, the bird flew right past her head, and Leslie gasped. She jumped back as the tiny creature bumped into the wall and then sailed through the back door to gain its freedom. Quickly stepping forward, Leslie slammed the door shut and locked it. She stood there for a moment, trying to calm the racing of her heart.

“All of this over a bird,” she said out loud with a small chuckle.

As her words echoed throughout the empty room, Leslie turned and slowly scanned the room. Apparently, she and Sergeant were on edge and had been spooked unnecessarily, but for the first time since Leslie had begun working at the center, she didn’t like being here alone.

“Let’s go home,” she said to Sergeant.

As the two hurried back through the building toward the office where her keys and purse were kept, Leslie wondered how that bird had gotten into the building unnoticed.

CHAPTER 15

Zaylie

Once the roads were cleared, Zaylie hurried home. There was a rumor around the island that a tornado touched down during the night, and although no one actually saw it, Zaylie wouldn’t be surprised if it was true. Branches and debris were scattered everywhere, and when Zaylie arrived at Azalea Bluff, she feared the oak trees lining the driveway would be badly damaged. It appeared, however, that the west side of the island had gotten the worst of the storm, and thankfully, Azalea Bluff seemed to be mostly unscathed.

Gran, Smutti, and Micah all hurried outside to welcome Zaylie home. Smutti’s tail wagged so forcefully that Zaylie was afraid the dog was going to throw a hip out, and Gran’s eyes were filled with tears of relief at seeing her granddaughter safe and sound.

“I nearly worried myself sick over you all night,” she scolded Zaylie.

“I was worried about you, too, Gran,” Zaylie said as she gave her grandmother a warm hug. “I’m really sorry I ran off like I did.” Turning to Micah, she added, “I’m so glad you were here with her.”

Smiling, Micah said teasingly, “Me too, even if she did beat me in every game we played.”

With a laugh, Zaylie said, “She’s pretty ruthless when it comes to games.”

“You let me win and you know it,” Gran stated, and the way her eyes twinkled as she looked up at Micah, Zaylie suspected her grandmother would give her a run for her money if she was a few years younger.

Taking a deep breath, Zaylie decided she’d better tell them what happened before they heard it from someone else. “Basil Lockwood was on Rita’s property last night,” she stated in a solemn voice. “Ryker fought him off, but it’s definite now; he's on the island.”

Gran and Micah stared at her with open mouths. They were completely speechless for a moment, and Zaylie braced herself for the barrage of questions.

“Honey, you could have been killed!” Gran finally exclaimed.

“Did you tell Bill?” Micah wanted to know.

“Is Ryker okay?” Gran asked.

Holding up her hands, Zaylie nodded and said, “Yes, I told Uncle Bill and Ryker is okay.”

“I can’t believe this,” Gran said, shaking her head. “I’m going to go call Jan. Thank you again for staying with me last night, Micah.”

After Gran and Smutti went inside, Micah touched Zaylie’s arm and said, “I’m glad you’re okay. If I’d known what was going on, I'd have tried to get to you.”

Zaylie smiled and took his hand. “I’m glad we’re all okay,” she replied. “It was an intense night for the whole island.”

Pulling his hand away, Micah cleared his throat and asked, “So Ryker was with you all night?”

Zaylie blinked in surprise. “Yes,” she replied. “I didn’t realize he was with Rita when I went over there.”

Micah nodded, and by the tense way he held his mouth, she knew he was upset. After a moment, he stated, “I’d really prefer it if you stayed away from him.”

Zaylie frowned. “I’m rarely around him, Micah,” she replied. “It would be hard to stay completely away from him, though, since he lives on the island and he’s my best friend’s brother.”

“Well, you’ve been around him a lot lately,” he snapped. “First, you danced with him at the New Year's Eve party, the same party where he kissed you, I might add. And then you spent an entire night with him.”

Zaylie could feel her temper flaring, and she fought to remain calm. “You make it sound so…so unscrupulous,” she sputtered. “I danced with a friend at that party. I told you the kiss was an accident, and Rita was there with us last night! We all three slept in the living room on separate pieces of furniture. Why are you acting like this?”

Micah sighed and ran his fingers through his hair. “I’m sorry,” he said, although his jaw was still tense. “It was just a long night, I guess. I’ll admit that I don’t like Steele or the way he acts with you, but I know if he tried something, you would never knowingly go along with it.”

Micah was jealous, that much was obvious, but Zaylie didn’t appreciate him jumping on her like that. To give him the benefit of the doubt, however, it had been a long night and everyone’s nerves were on edge.

Taking a step closer to him, Zaylie put her arms around his neck and said with a warm smile, “No, I would not. You’re my guy, Micah Pierce, not Ryker or anyone else.”

Blowing out a breath, Micah pulled her closer and smiled in return. “Forgive me?” he asked.

Zaylie nodded, and he leaned down to kiss her. After a moment, he pulled back and asked, “See you tomorrow night? We can go try that new Italian place.”

“Sounds good to me,” she said.

He kissed her once more and then walked over to his truck. As he drove away, Zaylie sighed. They’d just had their first argument since dating, and it hadn’t been pleasant. This is part of it, she told herself as she walked into the house. Relationships aren’t always sunshine and roses.

----------

The next morning, Zaylie and Gran drove into Savannah to visit Mrs. Danette. When they arrived, Ernie was just leaving.

“How is your cousin?” Zaylie asked him.

“Much better,” he stated with a wide smile. “She woke up this morning, and the doctor thinks she’s going to be okay.”

“That’s wonderful news!” Zaylie and Gran exclaimed.

Just then, the elevator dinged, and Mary and Gerald Glover stepped out.

“Any change?” Mrs. Mary immediately asked Ernie after greeting Zaylie and Gran. When Ernie told her the news, her eyes filled with tears and she said in a choked voice, “I’m so happy to hear that; I’ve been so worried.”

Ernie nodded. “So have I,” he replied. Glancing around at them all, he said, “I talked with her for a while after she woke up, and she said that she got dizzy and fell down the stairs by accident. We called Bill Harper and told him the news.”

Mrs. Mary’s eyes widened slightly. “So…so no one was in the house?” she asked.

“No, thank goodness,” Ernie replied. “Well, I’m going home to take a shower. I’ll be back later. Thank you, Zaylie and Mrs. Ferguson, for your concern.”

As Ernie left, Zaylie noticed that Mrs. Mary watched him with an expression that seemed to say she wasn’t entirely convinced what he said was true. She also noticed how tired the older woman looked; black circles lined her eyes as if she hadn’t been sleeping very well.

“Gerald, I’m going to the cafeteria for a cup of coffee first,” she suddenly said. “I’ll be back in a moment, and then we can go see Danette.”

“Would you mind if I joined you?” Gran asked, and when Mrs. Mary nodded, the two walked away.

Turning to Mr. Gerald, Zaylie asked, “Is Mrs. Mary okay? I know what happened to her cousin must have been pretty traumatic for her.”

“She hasn’t been sleeping very well,” he replied with a heavy sigh. “And what little sleep she’s gotten has been restless and filled with nightmares.”

“Hopefully now she’ll start feeling better,” Zaylie said with a sympathetic smile.

“So do I,” he replied, adding in a slightly harsh tone, “And I hope the police catch Lockwood soon. The man is an animal.”

Zaylie blinked in surprise; she’d never heard Mr. Gerald voice such a strong opinion about anyone. But then, Basil Lockwood was once engaged to Gerald’s wife.

“Mr. Ernie said he wasn’t responsible for what happened, though,” she replied hesitantly.

Mr. Gerald made a pfft sound with his mouth. “Maybe not, but Lockwood was spotted on the island by your friend, wasn’t he? Who’s to say he won’t still go after Danette?”

Zaylie was a bit surprised that he knew about the fight between Basil and Ryker, but then she remembered how quickly news spread in a small town.

“I’ve, uh, heard about what happened to Mrs. Danette’s brother all those years ago,” she said, a little unsure if he would want to discuss it. “Do you remember it well?”

“Oh, yes,” Mr. Gerald replied. “Rand was very protective of both Danette and Mary.”

“They must have all been pretty close,” Zaylie stated.

“He, Mary, Danette, and Ernie were all inseparable,” he replied, nodding his head. “We called them the Cool Cousins because they were always part of the “in” crowd.”

“You were, too, I presume?” Zaylie asked with a smile.

Mr. Gerald laughed. “Sort of,” he replied. “My father was pretty well off, which allowed me to be a part of the cliques, but I was the short, fat friend. The one they all tolerated.”

His words were spoken with the tiniest bit of resentment, but Zaylie couldn’t blame him. He’d obviously not been treated extremely well, and although she wanted to ask how Mrs. Mary managed to become involved with Basil Lockwood, she didn’t wish to dredge up more uncomfortable memories for him.

“Rand was a good friend, though,” he added with a look of sadness coming into his eyes. “It was hard after he died.”

“I’m sure it was,” Zaylie said sympathetically. “Was Mr. Taylor part of the clique as well?”

Mr. Gerald nodded. “Yes, he and Danette dated all during high school,” he said. “After Rand died, Danette wasn’t herself for a while and they broke up. Harrison moved away soon after that and we never saw him again. Until now, that is.”

Before Zaylie could reply, Mrs. Mary and Gran appeared once again, therefore ending the conversation between Zaylie and Mr. Gerald.

“Let’s pop in and say a quick hello to Danette so Mary and Gerald can have some time with her,” Gran said to Zaylie.

Zaylie nodded, and the two went into Danette’s room, where they found Hannah sitting faithfully by her side.

“She’s asleep,” Hannah hissed, and Zaylie thought the woman seemed a little edgy.

“We won’t bother her then,” Gran said softly. “Please just tell her when she wakes that we were here and that we are praying for her.”

Hannah nodded and the two women left. They waved goodbye to Mary and Gerald, and as they took the elevator downstairs, Zaylie said, “She seems to be very protective of her employer.”

With pursed lips, Gran stated in a not very pleased tone, “She certainly does. I don’t think I like her.”

Zaylie laughed. “Gran, you don’t even know the woman.”

“I know enough,” she replied with a sniff.

As they walked through the parking lot, Zaylie asked Gran about Mr. Gerald’s family.

“He said his father was pretty well off, so I’m surprised Mrs. Mary decided to open the antique store,” she commented.

“Gerald’s father ran through that money like it grew on trees,” Gran stated with a huff. “By the time Gerald graduated from high school, they were in bankruptcy.”

“Wow,” Zaylie breathed “What about Mrs. Mary? She came from a very wealthy family.”

“Not directly, though,” Gran replied. “Danette’s great-grandfather, who was Mary’s great-uncle, is the one who built the Herbert estate. Mary and Ernie both came from the less fortunate side of the family.”

“Interesting,” Zaylie muttered as she sorted it all out in her mind.

Giving her granddaughter a look, Gran stated, “You need to learn more of this island’s history, young lady.”

“It seems to be filled with a lot of drama,” Zaylie replied with a grin.

Gran chuckled. “You have no idea.”

As they drove from the parking lot, Zaylie noticed a car parked not far from theirs with its engine running. She saw a man and woman sitting in the front seat, wrapped in a passionate embrace, and as they passed by, she realized it was Ernie and his girlfriend, Stacey. The girlfriend Mrs. Danette didn’t approve of.

CHAPTER 16

The Attacker

I did something terrible; I pushed Danette down the stairs. Did she deserve it? Most people would say no…but I’m not most people.

She’s saying it was an accident; I made certain of that. She’s afraid to tell the truth. She’s afraid of what might happen if she’s honest. I can’t say that I blame her.

If anyone does find out what really happened, I have a plan of action. People will be surprised at what I’ll do, but I’m not worried about that. I’ll admit I’m a bit nervous, though. These last few days have been nerve-wracking, to say the least. There’s been a lot of sneaking around, lying, and secretive conversations. I’m ready for it to all be over, and I have a feeling it will be soon.

----------

Zaylie

After a long and fruitless day of searching once again for Basil Lockwood, they called it a day. Bill thanked the two officers who had come from Savannah for their help, and they said they would be happy to do so again if need be.

As the two men drove away, Zaylie turned to Bill and asked, “Did you know Basil when you were young? Before he went to prison.”

Bill hesitated for a moment, and Zaylie looked at him questioningly. Finally, he nodded and said, “Yes. Basil is my cousin.”

Zaylie blinked as a wave of shock coursed over her. “What?” she asked in a tone that was a bit sharper than she’d intended.

Bill sighed. “Few people know about that,” he said. “We were only ever around each other as children, and then when his parents divorced and his mother went wild, we stopped associating with them. I only saw him around town a few times as a teenager.”

“You didn’t go to the same school?” Zaylie asked.

“No.” Bill shook his head. “I went to the military school in Savannah; my father wanted me to join the military after I graduated, but he had to settle for me becoming a police officer instead. Basil attended the island’s local high school.”

“I’m guessing that’s not the same school Mrs. Mary and the others attended?”

Bill chuckled slightly. “No, they all went to the private school,” he replied.

Suddenly, a thought struck Zaylie, and she asked, “Wait, were you the one who arrested him?”

“No,” he replied. “I’d just started with my training and wasn’t even an officer yet.”

Zaylie was blown away by everything Bill had told her. Is that why he’d always seemed so secretive about Basil, because they were family?

“I know you’re wondering why I never brought this up before,” he stated, eyeing her closely. “I guess I didn’t want the people around here remembering that Basil and I are related; it could cause problems.”

“I won’t say anything,” she promised.

Bill changed the subject, but Zaylie couldn’t keep her mind off their previous conversation. Could Basil hold some sort of grudge against Bill? They were cousins, after all, and apparently, Bill hadn’t stood up for him during the trial. Perhaps Basil had come back for revenge on more people than they’d originally thought.

Just then, a Rolls-Royce drove by, and Harrison Taylor waved at them through the window. Zaylie waved back, and then she turned to ask Bill about him.

“Did you know him very well when he used to live here?” she questioned.

“Not really,” he replied. “He was one of those rich snobs who looked down his nose at everyone else. I will say I did a background check on him when he came back to the island, and the guy has been a bit of a nomad. He’s also been on and off the grid for the last few years.”

“Really?” Zaylie asked, tilting her head to the side as she thought it over. “Where has he been living?”

Bill nodded. “In New York until about five years ago,” he said. “From what I could tell, he made most of his money in the stock market.”

Zaylie’s eyes narrowed slightly. “Didn’t one of those big stocks go to zero a few years ago due to fraud or something?”

“I think you’re right,” Bill replied. “Are you thinking that’s why he left New York?”

Zaylie shrugged. “Could be, but if that’s the case, where is he getting his money now?”

Bill rubbed his chin. “That’s a good question.”

Zaylie’s cell phone rang just then, and when she saw it was Micah, she said goodbye to Bill and got into her car.

“Hey, babe, how did everything go today?” Micah asked.

“Well, we didn’t find any trace of him, so I don’t know if that’s a good thing or not,” Zaylie stated with a sigh.

“Where are you?”

“At the Marshland Museum,” she replied, waving to Bill as he drove away.

“The one that’s closed?” he asked.

“Until the renovations are done,” she replied with a nod.

“I guess that would be a good place to hide, since it’s so far off the main drag,” Micah said. “Look, I’m about to leave work, so why don’t we…oh, wait. Hold on a minute.”

Zaylie could hear someone talking in the background, and she put her car in reverse. The sun was starting to set, and she didn’t want to be out here after dark.

“Zaylie, there’s an emergency that’s come up with one of my patients,” Micah said when he came back to the phone. “I’ll call you back later.”

The call ended, and as Zaylie backed out of the parking space, she suddenly realized she’d left her jacket lying on the dock behind the museum. With a groan, she put the car in park and jumped out, leaving Smutti in the back seat.

As Zaylie’ hurried around to the back of the museum, she suddenly realized just how desolate the area was. The museum was located down a long, wooded road that led to the river. No one lived nearby, and the main road that led to town was at least two miles away. Telling herself to hurry before it got too dark to see, she picked up her pace and rounded the corner of the building.

The area behind the museum was breathtaking. The river stretched out for miles, winding its way through green and golden marshland. A deck just behind the museum was connected to a long dock that led further out into the river. Many people loved to come out and fish or crab from this dock; Zaylie remembered her family doing just that during the summer months when she was a kid before Zoe died.

While memories floated through her mind, Zaylie hurried toward the jacket she’d left lying on one of the benches on the back deck. As she climbed up the wooden steps, she shivered as the ever-constant breeze along the river suddenly gained a bit of speed. The grassy marsh whispered and rustled as it swayed in the breeze, and just as Zaylie reached out to grab her jacket, the crack of a branch sounded just behind her.

Spinning around, Zaylie searched shadows in the growing darkness. Tall trees surrounded the museum on all sides, but the woods would be relatively swampy, so surely no one would be hiding out there. Would they?

It’s probably just an animal, she told herself as she quickly slipped the jacket on.

Zaylie was always amazed at how quickly the brilliant sunsets over the river could disappear. Within a matter of seconds, the bright, golden hues had turned into a dark periwinkle and all light was swiftly dissipating. She hurried back down the dock steps and around the museum, breathing a sigh of relief when she spotted her car just up ahead. All seemed to be well; why was she so edgy?

Suddenly, an odd sound emanated from behind Zaylie. She turned to look, her heart catching, but she didn’t see anything. The sound had been akin to a low groan or deep rumble, and when she heard it again, chills swept all over her. Turning, she ran the rest of the way across the parking lot, her hands trembling as she opened the car door and jumped inside. She quickly put her car in drive and sped away, her eyes searching the rearview mirror as she drew further and further from the museum. She saw nothing, but whatever she’d heard let her know she never again wished to be out here alone at night.

CHAPTER 17

The Deceiver

Things are not going according to plan. I can feel the pressure weighing down on me, and with a growl of frustration, I kick a nearby tree. The pain distracts me for a moment, but it doesn’t take away the vexation. I hadn’t expected this to be so difficult. Maybe I should just forget it. Maybe I should just disappear and…

No. I started this, and no matter what it takes, I’m going to finish it.

----------

Zaylie

The next day, Zaylie got another call from Bill. What he had to say, however, was completely unexpected. Mary Glover had disappeared.

“She left a sign on the front door that she was leaving for lunch and would be back in an hour, but her car is parked behind the store and no one has seen or heard from her in over three hours,” Bill said. “Her husband has called her dozens of times, but it keeps going straight to voicemail. Can you come to the antique store with Smutti?”

Zaylie immediately agreed, and after telling Gran what was going on, she headed to the store. When she arrived, there were two police cars in the parking lot, and Zaylie could see Bill standing inside with Gerald Glover.

“There’s no sign of a struggle,” Uncle Bill told her as soon as she walked inside. “A few stools are pushed out of place, but nothing too major.”

“I can’t understand what’s happened,” Mr. Gerald said, his face filled with worry. “She’s never just fallen off the grid like this before.”

“Have y’all tried tracing her phone?” Zaylie asked, glancing between the two men.

“I tried, but it’s turned off,” Bill replied. “The last place it shows is here at the store.”

Nodding, Zaylie looked at Mr. Gerald and said, “I’ll need an article of her clothing; it helps in places with a lot of foot traffic.”

Mr. Gerald went into the back room and returned a moment later with his wife’s sweater. Holding the sweater under Smutti’s nose, she commanded the dog to “search”. The black German Shepherd immediately got to work, and it didn’t take her long to find her way into the back room. She stopped at an old armoire, and much to Zaylie’s surprise, she then continued toward the exit door at the back. If Mrs. Mary hadn’t taken her car, why had she gone out the back way?

When Smutti arrived at the back door, she scratched at the doorknob until Zaylie pushed it open. Everyone followed the dog outside and quietly watched as she smelled around the small back parking area.

“She has no security cameras out here?” Zaylie asked Mr. Gerald as she looked around.

Mr. Gerald shook his head. “No,” he replied. “I was barely able to convince her to add a security system inside the shop. She said she didn’t need it because we never have any crime around here.”

“I would suggest adding some cameras,” Uncle Bill spoke up.

Smutti sniffed around Mrs. Mary’s car and then moved on to an empty space beneath the shadow of some nearby trees. When she stopped and sat down, Zaylie’s heart sank.

“Why did she stop?” Mr. Gerald wanted to know.

Turning to face Mrs. Mary’s husband, Zaylie replied in a heavy tone, “She lost the scent. Mr. Gerald, it looks like your wife left in another car.”

“What does that mean?” he asked, his eyes bouncing back and forth between Bill and Zaylie.

Letting Bill take the lead, Zaylie motioned for Smutti to come back to her side.

“Would she have gone to lunch with one of her friends?” Bill asked.

“It’s possible,” Mr. Gerald replied, “but I’ve called every friend I can think of and no one has seen or heard from her.”

“Normally, we wouldn’t begin a search until someone has been missing for at least twenty-four hours,” Bill stated. “But I know this sort of behavior isn’t normal for Mrs. Mary, and with…well, everything that’s been going on, I think we need to get moving on this.”

“I’ll help,” Zaylie spoke up.

Bill nodded, and they all went back around to the front of the store to discuss the search plan. Once everything was together, everyone spread out and began with the search. After calling Gran to give her an update, Zaylie went a little further into town and started on the right-hand side of the street. She went into the coffee shop, realty company, art gallery, and pizzeria, but no one had seen Mrs. Mary.

Stopping at The Island Vet, Zaylie asked the woman at the front desk if she could see Micah. When he stepped from the back room a moment later, his face lit up into a smile.

“Well, what a nice surprise,” he said as he kissed her on the cheek.

“Micah, have you seen Mary Glover today?” Zaylie asked hopefully. “I know she has a cat, so I was hoping she’d been here.”

Micah’s brow furrowed, and he shook his head. “No, I haven’t seen her today. Why? What’s wrong?”

Zaylie told him what happened, and his eyes widened with concern. “Wow, I hope she’s okay,” he replied. “Look, I’ve got an emergency surgery scheduled in the next fifteen minutes that I have to get prepped for, but keep me posted. Okay?”

Zaylie promised she would, and when she stepped out of the vet into the street, a familiar car was driving by. It pulled toward the curb where Zaylie was standing and stopped as the passenger side window rolled down.

“Hello, Miss Layne,” Harrison Taylor greeted her with a charming smile. “You haven’t seen Danette’s cousin Mary, have you?”

Zaylie shook her head. “No, I was actually just looking for her,” she replied. “The sheriff asked if I could help.”

“Ah, so I guess the word has gotten around,” he stated. “Danette is very upset and worried.”

“I’m sure she is,” Zaylie said. “How is she doing since her accident?”

“Accident?” Harrison raised a dark, manicured brow. “She’s back home and doing well, but I don’t know that I would call it an accident.”

Looking at him questioningly, Zaylie asked, “You don’t believe the fall was accidental?”

Harrison glanced away, but not before she saw a spark of dubiousness in his eyes. When he looked back at her a second later, his gaze was clear and he said with an innocent smile, “Please forgive my overactive imagination. Since Danette says it was an accident, then I guess it must be true.”

“What do you think now that Mrs. Mary has gone missing?” Zaylie pressed.

Harrison shrugged. “Everyone is whispering around town that the escaped prisoner kidnapped Mary, so I really don’t know what to think,” he replied.

“Mrs. Mary thought he was responsible for Mrs. Danette’s fall,” Zaylie told him.

Harrison didn’t say anything for a moment; he simply stared out at the road ahead with a tight jaw. After a moment, he cleared his throat and said jokingly, “If I’d known all of this was going to happen, I’d have stayed away.”

“We certainly have our fair share of drama around here,” Zaylie said. “Oh, by the way, did Bill find out who broke into your yacht?”

Harrison sighed and shook his head. “Unfortunately not. He said there was no use in fingerprinting, as the burglar most likely was wearing gloves. It’s very upsetting to think that my little floating home was invaded and vandalized; I’ll admit I’ve been a bit uneasy sleeping there at night. I may consider asking Danette if I can stay with them for a few days.”

The fact that he referred to his enormous yacht as his “little floating home” made Zaylie want to laugh out loud. Instead, she forced a sympathetic smile and said, “Well, hopefully Bill can get everything cleared up soon. Please give Mrs. Danette my best.”

Mr. Taylor promised that he would and then drove away in his fancy Rolls-Royce. Zaylie stood there and watched for a moment, wondering once again why he’d decided to come back to the island.

It was getting late, and Zaylie decided to check the park before calling it a day. When she and Smutti arrived, Zaylie was surprised at how desolate the area was. Usually, the park was filled with joggers and bicyclists, but there didn’t seem to be a soul around.

Giving Smutti the sweater once again, Zaylie commanded her to search and the dog immediately set out. As they wound their way down the paved jogging path, the trees grew thicker and the evening got darker. Squirrels darted in and out of the bushes, and the wind stirred restlessly through the tops of the trees. There was still a good bit of debris on the ground from the storm, which explained why the park was so desolate. Zaylie and Smutti had to step over several fallen limbs and piles of Spanish moss as they walked, and the ground on either side of the pathway was still a bit soft and muddy.

The sun was setting quickly, and it was getting harder and harder to see. Grateful that she’d thought to bring a flashlight, Zaylie pulled it from her pocket and clicked it on. Smutti continued to search, but it seemed she wasn’t catching a scent. When the breeze suddenly began to pick up, Zaylie shivered, wishing she’d thought to bring a jacket.

They’d made it over halfway down the path, which looped back around to the parking lot when Smutti stopped and turned to look back down the path. Her ears were alert, and her golden eyes glittered in the beam of the flashlight as she searched the darkness. Zaylie turned and shined the light down the paved trail, but she didn’t see anything. What could Smutti have heard or sensed?

A low, guttural growl vibrated past Smutti’s throat then, and a chill swept up Zaylie’s spine. She quickly pulled her cell phone from her pocket, but when she tried to call Bill, she realized she didn’t have a signal.

Suddenly, a shadowy figure stepped from the trees and into the beam of Zaylie’s flashlight. Smutti barked loudly, and Zaylie’s eyes widened. It was a large, wolf-like creature, with a thick coat and a long, pointed nose. It stared at them, its eyes shimmering in the darkness as it seemed to consider what to do next.

Coyotes had been spotted on the island off and on for years, but Zaylie had never been this close to one. They could be very dangerous; in fact, one had killed a local dog only a few months before. The thought of Smutti getting into a fight with a wild and possibly rabid animal made Zaylie glance wildly around for a stick or rock or anything to use as a weapon. When her eyes landed on a large stick, she quickly grabbed it and clutched it tightly in her hand.

Smutti barked again, and the coyote bared its teeth. Zaylie grabbed Smutti’s collar and shushed her, hoping the coyote would go away. Oh, why had she come out here by herself so late in the evening? If she’d realized no one would be around, she wouldn’t have made such a mistake.

Just then, the crunching sound of approaching footsteps caught Zaylie’s attention, and she spun around to see the large figure of a man drawing near. Smutti barked again, and Zaylie gasped, swiveling back around to shine the light on the coyote. The large animal tucked its tail and hurried off into the woods, and Zaylie breathed a sigh of relief.

“Everything okay?”

Turning to face the unknown man with the familiar voice, Zaylie shined the light in his face and said, “Oh, Mr. Ernie, hi. Yes, everything is okay now that you’re here.”

Eyeing her curiously, he asked, “What do you mean?”

Zaylie nodded toward the section of trees the coyote had just disappeared into and said, “I think your presence just scared off a rather large coyote; I was terrified it was going to attack us.”

Ernie raised his eyebrows in surprise. “Wow, I’m glad I was here,” he breathed. “What are you doing out here by yourself so late in the evening?”

“Looking for Mrs. Mary,” she replied.

“You, too?” he asked. “That’s also why I’m here. Danette is so upset.”

“Would you mind walking me back to my car?” Zaylie asked. “I’m a little nervous knowing that a coyote is nearby.”

“Sure,” he replied.

Nodding in the direction Ernie had just come, Zaylie said, “Let’s go that way since the coyote went in the other direction.”

As the two walked down the path with Smutti in the lead, Ernie asked, “She’s still working?”

Zaylie nodded. “Yes, she’s still searching for a scent.”

“Surely if Mary was here, I would have seen her,” he commented.

Unless she’s dead.

The thought sent chills all over Zaylie’s body, and she shivered. Why would she have thought such a terrible thing? It wasn’t until that very moment that she realized another dead body had been found in this park once before. Her sister’s.

“Can she sense a dead body?”

Zaylie’s eyes shot up to Ernie’s face at his question. It was like he’d read her mind. Clearing her throat, she said, “It’s according to how long the body has been decomposing, and her indication is different, so I have to watch her closely if we’re searching for a dead body.”

Ernie glanced at her curiously. “What do you mean by her indication being different?”

“A dead body gives off a different scent from a live one,” she explained. “It can be confusing for dogs, especially at first.”

“How does she react to a dead body versus a live one?” he wanted to know.

Before Zaylie could respond, Smutti stopped and looked into the trees to their left. Her hackles stood up straight and she growled, taking a tentative step forward. Zaylie quickly shined the flashlight in that direction, and when she spotted a mound of leaves about twenty feet from the path, her heart sank.

Taking a deep breath, Zaylie replied in a trembling voice, “She reacts just like that.”

CHAPTER 18

After getting back to their cars and alerting Bill, Zaylie and Ernie waited until the police arrived so they could lead them to the crime scene. Once the forensics team checked the body, it was determined that Mrs. Mary had been dead almost five hours.

“What were you doing out here, Ernie?” Bill wanted to know.

The three of them stood down the path a little way from the crime scene, and Ernie looked at Bill with a flicker of surprise in his eyes at the pointed question.

“I was searching for Mary,” he replied, pushing his hands into the pockets of his pants. “Danette told me what had happened, and I wanted to help find her.”

Nodding, Bill asked, “Where were you around noon today?”

Ernie hesitated and glanced away. Clearing his throat, he finally said, “I was with my girlfriend, Stacey. You can ask her.”

“Could I have her full name and number?” Bill asked.

While Ernie obliged, Zaylie announced she was going home. One of the officers escorted her to her car, and as they walked through the darkness, Zaylie rubbed her arms and shivered. The park had always been such a beautiful, peaceful area, but now it just felt bleak and oppressive.

When Zaylie arrived home, she immediately told Gran what had happened, her voice heavy as she relayed the details. Finding Mrs. Mary’s body had affected her more than she’d realized, and the more she talked, the more she began to shake and feel sick to her stomach. With tears in her eyes, Gran led Zaylie to the living room where she told her to lie down while she went to fix her some tea.

Zaylie curled up on the sofa and Smutti hopped up beside her, sensing how upset her master was. She rested her head on Zaylie’s arm, her eyes sad as she watched Zaylie cry. Zaylie rubbed her soft head, knowing the dog was shaken as well. Finding a dead body was always unexpected, and very traumatic for everyone involved.

Moments later, Gran returned with two cups of hot peppermint tea. Zaylie sat up and took one cup, blowing away the steam as she sipped in silence. In all her years of search-and-rescue, she’d never discovered the body of someone she’d known her whole life. Mrs. Mary had always been nice to her, and Zaylie had never imagined that the woman wouldn’t be found alive.

“I can’t believe she’s dead,” Gran said softly. “I remember when she was born. I even went to her wedding. Who on earth could have done this?”

“Mr. Ernie thinks it’s Basil Lockwood,” Zaylie replied. Looking at Gran, she asked, “Do you remember much about the trial?”

“Not a lot,” she replied. “Your sister had just been born and your grandfather was in and out of the hospital with a bad case of pneumonia, so I had my hands full.”

Zaylie’s eyes widened. “How did Gramp get pneumonia?”

“It started with the flu, and because he was too stubborn to go to the doctor, it turned into pneumonia,” she replied with a sigh. “I was so worried about him; we were afraid we might lose him there for a while. And when I wasn’t seeing about him, I was helping your mom with Zoe. She had the colic, so life was rough for a few months.”

“Wow, I had no idea,” Zaylie said. After a moment, she asked, “Did you even know Basil?”

Gran shook her head. “No, but I remember when he robbed the gas station,” she replied.

Zaylie’s eyebrows shot up. “He did?”

“People around town were stirred up about it,” she said as she took off her glasses to rub her eyes. “He was fifteen or sixteen, and a couple of his older brother’s friends supposedly talked him into doing it. The two older boys were arrested and charged as adults, but the owner of the gas station agreed to not press charges against Basil since that was his first offense. He said he wanted to give the boy a second chance.”

“I’ll bet he regretted that decision after what happened to Mrs. Danette’s brother,” Zaylie muttered. “Did Basil do anything else?”

“Not anything I ever heard of,” Gran replied. “I know Mary’s mother wasn’t happy about Mary dating him, but her father seemed to think Basil had straightened himself up and had potential.”

Zaylie sighed and shook her head. “It’s hard to believe that one man could be responsible for so much pain,” she said in a soft voice.

Reaching over to pat her granddaughter on the knee, Gran said, “You look exhausted. Why don’t you try to get some rest, honey?”

“Okay,” Zaylie agreed as she leaned forward to give Gran a hug. “Thanks for the tea.”

As tired as she was, Zaylie’s night was fitful. She kept thinking about the fight between Basil and Ryker, and the image of Mrs. Mary’s body underneath those leaves kept replaying over and over in her mind. Where would all of this end? Would they ever capture Basil Lockwood, or would he continue to wreak havoc on their small island?

----------

The next day, the whole town was in an uproar. Having grown up on the island, Mary Glover was a beloved and well-known member of the community. Everyone wanted justice for her, and knowing that a murderer was lurking in their midst just made the town even more edgy than before.

Zaylie was asked to come down to the police station to give an official statement. When she got there, she was surprised to see Ernie, Hannah, and Gerald sitting in the waiting area. She spoke to them and then walked toward Bill’s office. When she reached the partially closed door, however, she paused when she heard raised voices.

“I can’t believe you’re questioning me instead of getting out there and finding Mary’s killer.”

The voice sounded familiar, and when Zaylie peered through the crack in the door, she saw Danette Herbert-Lee glaring at Bill from across his desk.

“I’m sorry, Danette, but this is the procedure,” Bill replied with a sigh. “You’re not the only one I’m speaking with. Now, where were you yesterday between noon and two o’clock?”

With a clenched jaw, Danette snapped, “I was at home. Hannah will vouch for me.”

Bill wrote everything down and then nodded his head. “Thank you, Danette. Will you send Hannah in now, please?”

Danette stalked to the door, but stopped halfway and spun back around to face Bill. Pointing her finger at him, she hissed, “Don’t let the fact that Basil happens to be your cousin cloud your judgment again, Bill Harper, or you’ll never see the inside of this office again. I’ll see to that personally.”

When Danette turned again and marched toward the door, Zaylie hurried back down the hall and into the waiting area, where she quickly took a seat. Danette emerged seconds later, her face red, and she motioned toward Hannah. The two women spoke quietly in the corner for a moment before Hannah walked toward Bill’s office, and Danette stomped outside without speaking a word to anyone else. Ernie hurried after her, while Gerald sat silently.

“How are you, Mr. Gerald?” Zaylie asked softly.

“Exhausted,” he replied, reaching up to rub his eyes. “I didn’t get any sleep last night. It’s so hard to believe all of this is happening.”

Zaylie nodded sympathetically. “I’m so sorry,” she said.

Hannah emerged from Bill’s office then, and Mr. Gerald took his turn. As the housekeeper walked back into the waiting area to grab her sweater, Zaylie asked about Mrs. Danette’s injuries.

“I didn’t get a chance just now to ask how she was doing,” she explained.

“She’s been very tired,” the woman stated. “And a little confused with everything that’s happened. I wouldn’t advise visiting her right now.”

Zaylie opened her mouth to say that the thought had never even crossed her mind, but Hannah grabbed her sweater and was gone before Zaylie could even take a deep breath. Watching as the older woman walked out, Zaylie wondered why she always seemed so on edge and defensive. As far as her statement about Mrs. Danette being tired and confused, Zaylie found that hard to believe after what she’d just witnessed inside Bill’s office.

A few moments later, Mr. Gerald stepped into the waiting area and waved goodbye to Zaylie. Waving in return, Zaylie stood and hurried into Bill’s office, closing the door behind her.

“Finally, someone who is normal,” Bill stated with a shake of his head. Leaning back in his chair, he rubbed the back of his neck and moaned, “What a day.”

Taking a seat, Zaylie said, “I overheard a bit of yours and Mrs. Danette’s conversation. It seemed to be going rather well.”

With a slight chuckle, Bill looked at Zaylie and stated, “That woman always did have a nasty temper buried underneath all those uppity manners of hers.”

“Why were you questioning her?” Zaylie asked. “Surely you don’t think she had anything to do with her cousin’s murder.”

Leaning forward, Bill rested his elbows on his desk and sighed. “I have to cover all the bases, Zaylie,” he said. “Danette and Mary had their share of disagreements when they were younger, especially over Rand’s murder.”

“What did they disagree about in that situation?” Zaylie wanted to know.

“Danette was heartbroken over her brother’s death, and Mary was convinced that it was an accident; she didn’t believe that Basil intentionally killed Rand,” Bill replied. “From what I heard, she and Danette got into a terrible argument over it and didn’t speak to each other for years.”

“Wow,” Zaylie breathed. Chewing on her lower lip for a moment, she finally looked up at Bill and asked hesitantly, “Why did Mrs. Danette say your judgment had better not be clouded again this time? What did she mean by that?”

Bill hesitated and glanced away, his eyes a bit troubled. After a moment, he said, “During the trial, I refused to say what side I was on. Most people didn’t know I was Basil’s cousin, so I just chose to keep my mouth shut and stay out of it. Danette, however, found out.”

“How?” Zaylie asked.

“She was dating my best friend and he accidentally let it slip one night,” Bill replied. “Surprisingly, she never told anyone that I know of, but she’s always held it against me.”

“Do you think she’ll try to make trouble for you?” she wanted to know.

Bill shrugged. “It’s possible,” he replied. “I’m not too worried about it, though.”

Absently twirling a strand of auburn hair around her finger, Zaylie asked, “So, did they all have alibis?”

Bill gave her a look and said, “You know I shouldn’t tell you that, young lady.”

“But I found the body,” she persisted.

With a sigh, he gave in and said, “Yes, they all basically alibied each other. Ernie’s girlfriend corroborated his story. Hannah said that both she and Danette were at home when Mary was killed, and Gerald said he was golfing in Savannah.”

“Did you check his story?” she asked.

“Yes,” he replied. “Several people saw him at the golf club around the time she was killed.”

“So, it looks like we’re back to square one,” Zaylie stated. “It’s got to be Basil.”

Bill rubbed the side of his face, leaving red streaks all along his cheeks. He looked tired, like he hadn’t slept in days. Zaylie knew he’d been under a lot of pressure to catch Basil, and the stakes were even higher now that someone had been killed.

“I don’t know why he’d kill her,” he replied in a heavy voice. “He loved her, Zaylie. Why would he want to hurt her?”

Zaylie shook her head. “If he killed once, what would stop him from killing again?” she asked. “Perhaps he’s angry that she married someone else.”

“You could be right,” he replied. Looking at Zaylie with a serious expression in his deep-set eyes, he asked in a grave tone, “If I don’t catch him soon, who is he going to kill next?”

CHAPTER 19

The Killer

Whisper Island is on pins and needles because of me…because of what I did. I killed Mary Glover. I killed her and dumped the body in the park. I didn’t think they’d find her so soon, but I’m not worried. They won’t catch me.

I can still see the look in Mary’s eyes when she realized she was about to die. She begged me not to do it, to give her a chance, but I didn’t listen. Am I sorry I killed her? No. She got what she deserved, and so did Rand. People need to learn they shouldn’t cross me. People need to learn to mind their own business.

Now that I’ve committed a second murder, I need to lie low for a while. Keeping quiet and staying below the radar is the plan, but there are so many people poking their noses where they don’t belong that I may be forced to act again soon. For now, however, I’ll try to stick to the plan, and if everything goes well, I won’t be caught.

I look at my reflection in a nearby window and start to laugh. My life has taken some unexpected turns through the years, but I can handle it, and I now relish the feeling of being in control.

----------

Leslie

The day had been a long one, but Leslie felt accomplished. The new dog was doing better than expected and was settling in nicely, and as she waved goodbye to everyone and closed up for the day, she could hardly wait to get home and relax with a good book.

Leslie had just locked the front door behind her when Myles pulled up in his truck. She glanced at her car longingly, wondering if he would stop her if she tried to make a run for it. Why was he here? She’d had a long day and didn’t feel up to dealing with her ex-husband and the emotions he always evoked inside of her.

“Les, I’m glad I caught you,” he said as he jumped from his truck and walked toward her.

“That makes one of us,” she muttered.

Sergeant hurried over to Myles, his tail wagging as he waited for a back rub, and Leslie frowned. The traitor.

“What do you want this time?” she asked in an annoyed tone.

Glancing up at her, Myles asked, “Long day?”

When she simply raised an eyebrow without offering a verbal response, he cleared his throat and stepped around Sergeant. Walking over to stand in front of her, he said, “I need your help again.”

Leslie sighed. “I figured as much.”

Raising his hands, Myles persisted, “I know you don’t want to, but I think I’ve hit on it this time.”

“Hit on what?” she wanted to know.

Myles glanced around as if making certain no one was about, before saying in a low voice, “Where he’s hiding the drugs.”

“You said that last time,” she stated with pursed lips.

“They’ve got to be at his cabin,” he continued, ignoring her statement.

“What cabin?”

“He has a cabin up in the mountains,” he replied. “From what I’ve heard, he goes up there pretty often, so I’m thinking his entire set-up is there.”

“So, go up there and find it,” she replied matter-of-factly.

“If it’s hidden, and I expect it is, Sergeant can find it way faster than I can,” he said.

Leslie crossed her arms and sighed. “Why is this so important to you?” she asked.

Myles blinked as if surprised by the question. He hesitated, and by the look on his face, she could tell he was giving it serious thought.

“When I joined the police force,” he finally said, “I took an oath of honor, integrity, and accountability. When I feel that someone is breaking the law, I can’t just look the other way. I have a duty to this town, and I intend to carry it out.”

“And you always honor your oaths, don’t you?” she asked, her tone cold and hard.

Myles took a step back as if she’d slapped him. “You’re the one who filed for the divorce,” he stated.

“Yeah, after you walked out on me,” she returned.

“I never said I wasn’t coming back,” he replied, his eyes flashing.

“You never said you were either,” she shot back.

Silence filled the air as the two stared at each other. Leslie could feel all the anger and resentment bubbling up within her, and she fought to keep her emotions under control. Taking a deep breath, she blew it out slowly and breathed, “In fact, you never said anything. You just walked away.”

“I needed some time,” he said, his voice filled with frustration. “I wasn’t prepared for what happened.”

Tears flooded into Leslie’s eyes. “And you think that I was?” she gasped in disbelief.

“No, of course not,” he said, reaching a hand out to her.

Snatching away, Leslie turned and hurried toward her car. Myles called after her, and when she reached the driver’s door, she stopped, her entire body shaking. Thoughts and memories and voices echoed inside her head, confusing her and making her want to scream. She felt Sergeant’s nose gently poke her thigh, and she reached down to touch his soft head, squeezing her eyes shut.

God, please help me.

The soft, silent plea silenced the noise in her mind, and she opened her eyes. The sun was beginning to set just behind the mountains, causing a ray of golden light to spread its fingers throughout the sky. Bursts of orange and pink mixed with deeper hues of purple and blue painted the clouds and took Leslie’s breath away. She instantly felt a sense of calm sweep over her, and when she felt Myles’ presence behind her, she turned around to face him.

“Les…”

Holding up her hand to stop him, Leslie said, “No. I don’t want to talk about this right now. If you need mine and Sergeant’s help, just tell me when and I’ll be ready.”

Myles stared at her in silence for a moment. Finally, he said, “Thank you.”

Holding his gaze, she said in a firm tone, “But this will be the last time, Myles. If this is another dead end, don’t ask me again.”

Myles nodded. “It’s a deal.”

With that, he turned and walked away. Before he climbed into his truck, he turned back to her and said, “Will you be available tomorrow afternoon?”

“Yes.”

Leslie watched as Myles drove away and told herself to forget about tonight. To forget about the last seven years since she’d met Myles. Their relationship had been rocky from the start. Why had she thought a marriage with him would work?

Leslie still remembered when Myles first told her about his past. He’d even gone so far as to warn her about getting involved with him; he’d said he wasn’t good with relationships. Being raised in an abusive home wasn’t something Leslie was familiar with, so she’d pushed the worry aside and told herself he would be fine once he was exposed to a normal and loving relationship. She hadn’t been prepared, though, for how he would pull away from her and shut down when problems arose. They’d worked through a lot of things together, and over time, Myles seemed to really change, which was why she’d been so blindsided when he finally walked out on her.

With a sigh, she opened the back door for Sergeant and then climbed into the driver’s seat. She glanced back up at the sky, but it was all dark now. The sun was gone, and the beautiful display of colors had disappeared as well, leaving behind a mix of drab grays and dull blues. It reminded her of her life; it had once been brilliant and beautiful as well, but now it was dark and dreary.

CHAPTER 20

Zaylie

The next morning, Zaylie was surprised when she received a phone call from Danette Herbert-Lee.

“I hope I’m not bothering you, but before Mary…” Mrs. Danette hesitated and cleared her throat. After a moment, she continued in a choked voice, “Well, Mary told me a few days ago that you were looking for a bookcase?”

“Yes, ma’am,” Zaylie replied.

“I have a beautiful one here at my house,” she said. “If you’re still interested, feel free to come by anytime to look at it.”

Glancing at her watch, Zaylie said, “I can actually come by in about an hour, if that will work for you?”

“See you then.”

After finishing up with some paperwork for the training center, Zaylie hurried out to the Herbert estate. As she parked and walked up the brick stairs leading up to the front door, she thought about the last time she’d been there, and her hands began to tremble. Seeing Mrs. Danette lying on the floor at the foot of the staircase had been traumatic enough, but searching the house for an escaped murderer was terrifying.

He wasn’t here that day, though, she told herself. Mrs. Danette said that the fall was an accident.

The conversation she’d had with Harrison Taylor suddenly floated through her mind, and she wondered yet again why he seemed to think Mrs. Danette wasn’t telling the truth. If someone really did push her down those stairs, why would she cover it up? Unless, for some reason, she was afraid to tell the truth.

Taking a deep breath, Zaylie squared her shoulders and rang the doorbell. A few seconds later, Hannah opened the door and let her in.

“Mrs. Danette asked me to take you upstairs,” she explained. “She’ll join you in a moment.”

As Zaylie followed the older woman up the elaborate staircase, she took note of all the large paintings that lined the walls on either side. It seemed that every Herbert family member held to the tradition of having their portraits done, and as Zaylie passed by, it felt like each set of eyes followed her every move. It was almost a little eerie, and Zaylie was glad when they reached the second floor.

“This certainly is a lovely house,” Zaylie said in an attempt to make polite conversation.

Hannah nodded. “Yes, it is,” she said. “Did you know it was built in 1889? After fighting as a very young man in the Civil War, Danette’s great-great-grandfather went on to become a very wealthy man. When he met the woman he wanted to marry, he promised to build her the biggest house she’d ever seen. So, he moved here and started building, but she died three months before its completion.”

Zaylie followed Hannah down a very long and dark hallway, her eyes wide as she listened. She’d never heard the woman talk so much and was surprised she was sharing so much with her now.

“How sad,” Zaylie commented when they stopped at the end of the hallway. “He must have been heartbroken.”

Hannah pulled a key from her pocket and inserted it into the door on their right. She pushed the door open, and Zaylie was immediately struck by the musky smell that filtered from the room.

“He was devastated,” Hannah replied as she flipped the overhead light on. It flickered for an instant and then went dark. With a sigh, Hannah fumbled around until she found a nearby lamp. She clicked it on and turned to face Zaylie, the dim light reflecting in her dark eyes as she said, “Did I mention that she died in this house?”

Zaylie blinked. “I thought you said she died before it was finished?” she asked.

“She came to see the house and fell down the stairs,” she replied. “Her neck was broken.”

Zaylie shivered, feeling a bit unnerved. Hannah was only sharing the history of the estate, but the thought of another woman dying in this house after falling down the stairs made the skin on the back of Zaylie’s neck tingle.

“He obviously married again,” Zaylie said with a small smile. “So, at least he finally found some happiness.”

“Yes, from the photos I’ve seen, his wife was a beautiful woman,” Hannah replied, and for the first time since Zaylie had met her, the woman gave a genuine smile. The gesture completely relaxed her features, giving her usually stern and stoic expression a look of softness.

“Well, enough of my jabbering,” she said with a slight laugh. Turning, she pointed to a beautiful old, black cathedral bookcase and said, “This is the piece Danette wanted you to see.”

“Oh, it’s exquisite,” Zaylie breathed as she walked over to inspect it closer.

The sound of approaching footsteps met their ears then, and Hannah said, “There she is. I’ll leave you to it, but if you would like something to drink, please let me know. I’ll be just down the hall.”

Zaylie nodded and thanked her, watching as she walked from the room. What had happened to the serious, grim house manager? Perhaps she was simply the type who took time to warm up to people.

Mrs. Danette rounded the corner then and entered the room with her usual air of grace and confidence. She hesitated in the doorway and glanced at the lamp in confusion. When she attempted to turn on the overhead light, Zaylie explained that the bulb had blown.

“Oh, goodness, it seems like it’s always something,” Mrs. Danette said with a sigh. Motioning around the room with one hand, she added, “Please excuse the mess; this has sort of become my storage room. I’d hoped that Mary could…could sell these things for me…”

When her voice became choked with emotion, Mrs. Danette stopped speaking and rubbed her eyes. Reaching out to touch her arm, Zaylie said gently, “I’m so sorry for your loss.”

With a small sniffle, Mrs. Danette said, “Thank you, dear. It’s so hard to understand. I…I wish that Mary and I could have had more time together. We let a disagreement come between us years ago, and we only just recently made amends and reconnected. I didn’t realize how much I’d really missed her. I wish now I hadn’t waited so long to apologize.”

“Basil killed your brother,” Zaylie said. “It’s understandable that you would have been upset with Mrs. Mary for defending him.”

Mrs. Danette nodded. “I suppose so. I still don’t understand how she thought he killed Rand by accident,” she stated. “Not only did he publicly threaten my brother, but evidence was found in his car! If it had been an accident, he would have turned himself in and explained what happened.”

“Love can do that to us sometimes,” Zaylie replied with a small shrug.

With a sheepish chuckle, Mrs. Danette said, “That is very true. Ernie is a prime example of that. Even when we were young, he never had good sense when it came to women.”

“Y’all have always been close?” Zaylie asked.

“Oh, yes,” Danette replied. “He was particularly close to Rand and took it very hard when he died. They were the same age; a year younger than Mary and me. They were like brothers.”

“It’s never easy losing someone you love,” Zaylie said, thinking of her sister. It had been over twenty years since her death, and she still missed her every day.

“No, it’s not,” Mrs. Danette agreed. “Those two would be fighting over Sally Astor one day and goofing around the next. My, how I miss those days.”

“Sally Astor?” Zaylie asked, tilting her head to the side.

“Yes, she was the top cheerleader at our school, and all the boys wanted her,” she replied, rolling her eyes. “Harrison and I even had a couple of arguments over her.”

The sound of voices could be heard coming from downstairs just then, and Zaylie recognized Harrison’s deep baritone.

“Speaking of Harrison, I didn’t realize he was coming by tonight,” Mrs. Danette murmured.

“He seems like such a nice man,” Zaylie commented as they walked down the long hall.

Mrs. Danette smiled warmly. “He is,” she replied. “I’m so glad he decided to come back.”

Grabbing the opportunity, Zaylie asked, “What made him finally decide to come back?”

“After I moved back to the island, we connected on social media,” she replied. “He’s been sailing up and down the coast on his yacht the last few years, so he decided to come back here for a while. He mainly came back to see me.”

“That’s very sweet,” Zaylie said with a smile.

“Yes, well…” Mrs. Danette cleared her throat. “So, what do you think of this old bookcase?”

Mrs. Danette changed the subject so quickly that Zaylie blinked in surprise. Glancing at the bookcase, she said, “Oh, I think it’s gorgeous. What are you asking?”

When Mrs. Danette named a surprisingly reasonable price, Zaylie readily agreed. “Would it be okay if my boyfriend and I come back later to pick it up?”

“Certainly.” Mrs. Danette nodded. As the two turned to walk from the room, she said, “I’ll have Ernie help you.”

“Thank you so much,” Zaylie replied with a grateful smile as they walked out into the dim hallway

When they arrived at the top of the staircase, Zaylie paused as the memory of Hannah’s story floated through her mind. She watched as Mrs. Danette walked gracefully down the stairs, and she wondered yet again about her accident. How strange that two women had fallen down these very stairs, and as Zaylie followed the mistress of the house, she found herself holding on a little tighter to the handrail.

CHAPTER 21

Leslie

Leslie sat in the passenger seat of Myles’ truck, her eyes glued to the window as she silently stared out at the passing scenery. They’d been driving for nearly thirty minutes and had barely spoken two words to each other. The silence between them was heavy, and when Leslie glanced sideways at Myles, she could see the tension in his body.

“Are you sure we’ll be out of here before this storm hits?” Leslie asked as she looked through the windshield at the billowy clouds gathering in the sky. The weather report stated that a storm capable of producing sleet was heading their way, and the last thing Leslie wanted was to be driving down a mountain during a sleet storm.

“Yes, it’s not supposed to start until later this evening,” he replied. “We’ll be long gone by then.”

I hope so, Leslie thought.

The higher they climbed up the mountain, the more desolate the area became. The trees grew thicker and more dense, and only a random cabin could be seen here and there. Every so often, there would be a break in the trees, and the view of the mountains was breathtaking. Crescent Moon was about an hour southeast of Knoxville, and Leslie could remember her father coming to see her on the weekends after she started working at the training center. They would go for hikes in these beautiful mountains and talk about her mother, who had passed away when Leslie was a teenager. She missed them both so much. Being alone was never easy, and she’d never thought her marriage would also leave her lonely.

After driving for over two hours, Myles pulled onto a dirt road and stopped. “The cabin is up ahead,” he told her. “We’ll need to walk from here.”

Leslie slipped into her jacket, clipped Sergeant’s lead onto his collar, and followed Myles into the forest. There appeared to be a long and winding driveway, but Leslie assumed Myles didn’t want to take it in case anyone was around. So, they trekked through the woods, following the driveway from a distance.

The forest was dark and quiet, and the crunching sound of their footsteps seemed to echo along the mountaintop. Through the towering roof of trees, Leslie could see dark, angry looking clouds gathering above them. She shivered in the cold afternoon air and hoped once again that the storm really would hold off.

Within a few moments, they came to a break in the trees, and Leslie could see a large, two-story cabin in the clearing. There didn’t seem to be anyone around, but Myles motioned for her to stop as he carefully took in their surroundings.

“Are there no cameras?” Leslie whispered.

Myles shook his head. “There’s no Wi-Fi up here,” he replied. Pulling two pairs of latex gloves from his pocket, he handed a pair to her and said, “Put these on and follow me.”

Leslie and Sergeant followed Myles as he led them around to the back of the cabin. As they approached the back door, he pulled a small device from his coat pocket, which he inserted into the lock. After a few twists and jiggles, the lock clicked, and the door was open.

“Where did you learn to do that?” Leslie wanted to know.

“Don’t ask,” was his reply.

They stepped into the dark cabin and Myles shut the door behind them. After flipping on a couple of lamps to give some extra light, Leslie gave Sergeant the command to start searching. While he worked, Leslie and Myles searched the house as well. The cabin appeared to have been built in recent years, but it was obvious no one lived there. The kitchen pantry was almost bare except for a few canned goods, the closets were empty, and there were no personal knickknacks or photographs sitting around. The longer they spent searching, the more it was starting to look like this trip was going to be as much of a failure as the first one.

Just then, Sergeant went over to a large, framed mirror that hung on the same wall where the staircase led up to the second floor. Leslie had thought it was odd to have such a large mirror hanging in the living room, and when Sergeant pawed at the floor and barked, she knew he’d found something.

“Over here,” she called to Myles.

As Myles hurried through the house to join her, Leslie tried to move the mirror but found it was securely fastened to the wall. She stepped aside to let Myles have a look, and when he firmly pressed against one side, the mirror popped open to reveal a doorway and a hidden staircase on the other side.

“This must be it,” Leslie breathed, her eyes wide.

Feeling along the inside of the wall, Myles found a light switch and flipped it on, illuminating the tiny staircase in a dim glow. Telling Sergeant to stay put, Leslie followed Myles down the steep and narrow stairs. When they arrived in the hidden basement, Leslie could hardly believe her eyes.

“Is…is this a drug lab?” she asked in disbelief.

Myles nodded. “Yeah. We call them clan labs,” he replied. Looking back at her, he said, “Stay by the stairs and don’t touch anything.”

Leslie watched as Myles slowly walked around the room, taking pictures. Metal tables were covered in jars and containers that were filled with different types of labeled “ingredients”. Mixers, pots, and bowls were scattered around, as if in a kitchen. There were tubes connected to large glass bottles which looked like something that would be found in a high school science lab. An odd smell floated in the air, and Leslie covered her mouth and nose with her hand.

It was hard to believe that Chad Roberts was involved in an operation such as this. His father would be devastated, and Leslie wondered what he would do about it. Would he arrest his own son? Would Myles even be able to convince him that it was true? She hoped he wouldn’t be arrested, too, for trespassing. She knew that finding evidence illegally wouldn’t hold up in court, and she wondered how Myles planned to tell the sheriff.

“Are you going to show these pictures to the sheriff and tell him what you’ve found?” she asked.

“I’m going to tell him I received a tip from an unnamed source that there’s a hidden drug lab here at his son’s cabin,” he replied. “I’ll tell him he needs to get a warrant to search this place.”

“What if he doesn’t believe you?” she wanted to know.

Myles lowered the camera and looked at her with a solemn expression. “Then I’ll have to tell him the whole truth and show him these pictures.”

“Could you lose your job?” she asked.

“Possibly.”

Just then, Leslie heard Sergeant whining and pacing around at the top of the stairs. She went up to see what was wrong, and when she reached the first floor, she heard what sounded like an approaching vehicle. Hurrying over to one of the front windows, she peeked out and gasped. A large black SUV was pulling up in front of the cabin. It stopped, and two muscular men wearing gun holsters got out.

Leslie spun around, her heart pounding. If she and Myles were caught, they would most likely be killed.

CHAPTER 22

Leslie

Racing back through the house, Leslie all but fell down the stairs in her haste to get to Myles.

“Someone is here!” she hissed, her voice echoing in the small room.

Looking up at her, the color left Myles’ face at her words. Without asking any questions, he hurried around the tables and the two ran back up the stairs to join an antsy Sergeant. The sound of voices could be heard coming from the front porch, and Leslie froze as Myles quickly closed the trapdoor.

“What do we do?” she asked in a trembling voice.

“Come on,” Myles said.

Grabbing her by the hand, he all but dragged her through the living room toward the kitchen. Sergeant followed, and just as they rounded the corner, the front door opened.

The three of them paused, pressing themselves against the kitchen wall. Myles looked around quickly and then nodded his head toward the laundry room. As they eased their way across the large kitchen toward the laundry room door, they could hear the two men talking.

“Who left these lights on?” one of them asked.

“Must have been Roberts,” the other replied.

“I guess…hey, what’s that sound?”

Leslie’s heart dropped; the men had heard the faint tapping of Sergeant’s nails against the kitchen floor. She could hear the sound of their fast-approaching footsteps, and just as their shadows appeared on the kitchen floor, Myles jerked her into the laundry room and pulled the door partially shut behind them. Sergeant stood at her side, his body stiff and ears alert, and she prayed that he wouldn’t bark or growl.

“What did it sound like?” one of the men asked.

Through the crack in the door, Leslie could clearly see the two men. They were even larger than she’d originally thought, and they’d both drawn their guns.

“Like…tapping.”

“Tapping?” the first man asked with raised eyebrows. Putting his gun back into his holster, he shook his head and walked back into the living room, calling over his shoulder, “It was probably just squirrels.”

The second man continued to stand in the kitchen, the expression on his face clearly stating that he wasn’t convinced. When he glanced at the laundry room, Leslie felt her heart catch. Could he see them? What would they do if he decided to investigate? She watched as Myles carefully pulled his gun from his belt, his stance guarded and ready for action. Leslie stood behind him, her heart pounding so loudly in her ears that she could hardly think straight.

When the man took a tentative step forward and began to raise his gun, she knew this was it. He suspected that they were in there and would probably shoot first and ask questions later. As if sensing the rising tension in her body, Sergeant took a step closer to the door and Leslie quickly grabbed his collar. He looked up at her, his eyes solemn, and she rubbed his back with trembling fingers.

“Are you coming?” the first man’s voice suddenly echoed through the house, causing them all to jump. “We need to hurry before we get caught in this storm.”

With a sigh, the man in the kitchen put his gun away and hurried off to join his partner. Feeling as if the weight of the world had been lifted off her shoulders, Leslie leaned against the washing machine and let out a long breath.

“That was close,” Myles whispered.

“Can we please get out of here?” Leslie asked, her throat so dry she desperately wished for something to drink.

Myles shook his head. “We’re directly over the basement; if the floors creak, they’ll hear us.”

“We would be out of here, though, before they could get back upstairs,” she persisted.

“Yeah, but what if they pursue us?” he asked. “Their vehicle is parked outside, while ours is half a mile away.”

Resigning herself to the fact that Myles was probably right, Leslie nodded and sat down on the floor next to Sergeant. The room was small, without a lot of space to move around in, and the longer they waited, the more the walls seemed to start closing in on them. Seconds ticked by, turning into minutes, until almost an hour had passed. Leslie could faintly hear the sound of the wind picking up outside, and she hoped they wouldn’t get stuck out here. Snowstorms in the mountains could be dangerous, and they hadn’t brought along any emergency supplies.

Finally, they heard the sound of footsteps, and then voices resonated through the living room.

“Sounds like it’s getting bad outside,” one of the men said. “Let’s get out of here.”

They listened as the two men’s footsteps faded away, and then the front door slammed. After a moment, they could hear their vehicle departing.

“Come on,” Myles said in a low voice.

The three of them stepped from the laundry room and walked toward the back door. Raising one hand, Myles motioned for them to stop as he cracked open the door and peered out. When everything seemed clear, he opened the door further and they all hurried outside.

The cold air hit Leslie in the face and she drew in a quick breath. The temperature had dropped significantly since their arrival, and the wind was getting stronger by the minute. As they hurried through the woods in the direction of Myles’ truck, Leslie found it difficult to run without stumbling. The wind whistled through the trees, nearly pushing her legs out from under her. She tripped over a rotten limb and would have fallen if Myles hadn’t caught her.

“You okay?” he asked, his blue eyes filled with concern.

Leslie nodded, and they continued on. Myles took her hand and held it tightly, and for a split second, Leslie allowed her heart to be warmed by the gesture. Although he’d never been the type to express his feelings very well, Myles had a tender and thoughtful side. Since the first day they’d met, she’d seen how kind and caring he could be with the dogs at the training center, but he was cool and distant with her and the other employees. She could still remember the first time he’d smiled at her, though, and how it had made her feel. Gradually, over time, he’d started opening up to her. His guarded eyes became less wary and filled with warmth, and he’d started sharing things about himself, things she knew he’d never shared with anyone else. She could still remember the first time he told her about his childhood.

“My parents were drug addicts,” he’d told her. “I had to mostly fend for myself, and I did my best to take care of my little brother. My mom was spaced out more than my dad, and whatever he took made him aggressive. He’d beat us and tell us how worthless we were. When the state finally took us away, I never saw them or my brother again.”

Leslie’s heart had broken for him that day. Maybe she should have been more cautious about starting a relationship with him, though. If she had, maybe she would have spared herself all the pain and agony he’d put her through.

By the time they made it through the woods and back to Myles’ truck, it was starting to rain. As swiftly as the temperature was dropping, Leslie knew it was just a matter of time before it turned to sleet. They all three jumped into the truck, tense and out of breath as they headed down the mountain.

The wind was even worse on the road, and just as Leslie had feared, the rain quickly turned to sleet. It grew thicker and thicker, and the wet road was already beginning to freeze. Myles drove slowly and carefully, but going downhill on icy roads was not an ideal situation…especially when there was a massive drop-off on either side of the road. Leslie clutched the door with one hand and the center console with the other, inwardly praying that they wouldn’t slide off the side of the mountain.

It was getting dark, which only made the driving conditions worse. The wind slapped angrily at the truck, grabbing the wheel multiple times and causing it to jerk to one side. Leslie could see the lights of a cabin up ahead, and she wondered if they should stop and ask for shelter.

Just as they were descending a particularly steep hill, the truck began to lose traction and slide. Leslie’s breath caught, and she watched as Myles clutched the steering wheel in a tight grip, his jaw set in a firm, determined line. The back wheels were sliding toward a grove of trees, which would hopefully block them from cascading down the mountainside, and Myles turned the wheel in that direction. If they missed the trees, they would die. There was no doubt about it. Squeezing her eyes shut, Leslie held on for dear life and felt the truck dip and shudder as it went off the side of the road.

CHAPTER 23

Zaylie

After Micah got off work, he and Zaylie went back out to the Herbert estate to pick up the bookcase. The sun was setting, creating a beautiful backdrop behind the stately mansion, and the Savannah River trickled peacefully nearby.

As they walked up the front steps, Micah laced his fingers through Zaylie’s and asked, “So, what are we doing after this?”

“Taking it back to my house,” she quipped, although she knew that’s not what he’d meant.

“Funny,” he replied drolly.

With a laugh, Zaylie tugged at his hand and said, “Let’s go try that new Italian restaurant like you suggested.”

They reached the top of the steps and rang the doorbell. Within seconds, Ernie opened the front door and smiled at them.

“Danette said y’all would be coming back over this evening,” he said as he ushered them inside. “She’s out with Harrison and Hannah is already gone for the day, so I’m afraid y’all are stuck with me.”

As they walked up the stairs, Ernie and Micah began talking about Mrs. Mary’s death.

“It’s hard to believe she’s gone,” Ernie stated with a sigh. “First Rand, and now Mary. I’m having trouble wrapping my mind around it.”

“I’m so sorry, Mr. Ernie,” Zaylie said sympathetically. “I can’t imagine how hard this must be for you and Mrs. Danette.”

“I’m sure she’s grateful they were able to mend their relationship,” Micah stated. “From what I understand, they were like sisters growing up.”

Ernie nodded. “Yes, Danette has said how much she regrets letting so much time pass before they talked things out,” he replied. “Honestly, though, I can’t blame her for distancing herself for all those years. Even though I chose not to move away from the island, things were never the same between Mary and me.”

Micah glanced at him in surprise. “Really?” he questioned.

“Mary had no right to defend that murderer,” Ernie said in a hard tone. “I know that accidents can happen, but it clearly was not an accident in my uncle’s case.”

“I agree, but they were so young,” Zaylie spoke up. “We all tend to make a few bad decisions when we’re young.”

“You’re right,” Ernie said, giving her a small smile. “I’ll be the first one to admit that.”

They reached the room where the bookcase was, and Ernie pushed the door open. The overhead light bulb had still yet to be changed, and the room was covered in inky darkness while Ernie walked over to click on the lamp.

“We unloaded all the books earlier,” he said after the light was turned on, “so hopefully it won’t be too difficult to get this thing downstairs.”

Zaylie stood back and let the two men pull the large piece of furniture away from the wall. When she stepped in to help, Micah shooed her away.

“We’ve got this,” he told her with a smile.

The two men had just stepped from the room, both of them straining with the weight of the bookcase, when Ernie glanced back and said, “Oh, Zaylie, I almost forgot to tell you that Danette said you can have that floor lamp in the far corner if you want it.”

While Ernie and Micah continued down the hall with the bookcase, Zaylie went over to inspect the lamp. It was an antique and needed a bit of tender love and care, but Zaylie could use another lamp by her desk at home, so she picked it up and began walking from the room.

By the time she’d made it out into the hall, the men were already downstairs. The lamp globe was a bit loose and rickety, so Zaylie walked slowly, and as she progressed down the dark hallway, she suddenly began to feel a little edgy. The house was so still and silent, and thoughts about what Hannah had told her earlier floated through her mind. Suddenly, it seemed that all the doors she passed by were cracked open a bit, as if someone stood on the other side, watching her. The floor creaked beneath her feet, almost giving her the feeling that she was being followed.

Stop letting your imagination run wild, she told herself. It’s just this old, creepy house making you feel this way.

Just then, the low moan of a door being opened echoed down the hall behind her. Zaylie stopped and peered back the way she’d just come, but the lighting was too low and she didn’t see anything. Perhaps what she’d heard hadn’t been a door after all; perhaps it was just the wind.

Turning, she continued on her way when she noticed the large figure of a man walking slowly down the hall toward her. She hesitated, her brow lowering in confusion. Had one of the men come back up the stairs without her realizing it? She squinted, trying to see through the low lighting. It wasn’t Micah; she was certain of that. It didn’t look like Ernie either, though, and whoever it was seemed to be dressed all in black.

Suddenly, the man stepped into a tiny ray of light, and Zaylie could clearly see his face. Chills raced down her spine as recognition filled her senses, and she gasped. It was the same man who had fought with Ryker out in Rita’s backyard. It was Basil Lockwood.

Zaylie’s eyes darted toward the staircase, and she mentally measured the distance that rested between them. Basil stood on the opposite side of the stairs, and she wasn’t certain if she could make it before he did. Should she dart into a nearby room and lock herself inside until one of the men came to her rescue? They had to be warned, though. Basil Lockwood was a dangerous man, and she couldn’t let Micah and Ernie unknowingly come back inside the house without knowing what was going on.

Releasing the lamp, Zaylie made a mad dash toward the stairs. Basil stood there, unmoving, as he watched her with narrowed, beady eyes. Just when Zaylie came within a few feet of the top stair, he made a move toward her. She heard the front door open, and she screamed, her cry reverberating loudly off the walls.

She and Basil made it to the top of the stairs at the exact same time. He raised a hand to grab her by the arm, but she quickly jerked away and reached out for the handrail. She missed, and for one split second, she felt herself floating through the air, as if in slow motion. She was falling; the reality of it blazed through her entire body like an electric shock. Her arms flailed wildly as she tried to catch herself, and the one thought that flashed brightly in her mind’s eye was this:

She would be the third woman to fall down these stairs.

CHAPTER 24

Leslie

The truck slammed into the row of trees on the driver’s side, throwing Leslie roughly against the center console. The vehicle shuddered and groaned, and for a moment, the world seemed to blur before her eyes as everything went deathly silent.

“Are you okay?”

Shaking her head in an attempt to clear it, Leslie looked over at Myles. The driver’s window was busted, and broken glass lay scattered all over him. A cut on his forehead oozed with blood, and when he reached out a hand toward her, she noticed his knuckles were raw and bloody.

“Les? Talk to me.”

He gently shook her, and Leslie blinked. “Uh, yeah,” she stammered. “I-I’m okay.”

Swiveling around in her seat, Leslie frantically looked for Sergeant. He sat in the floorboard, his entire body shaking as he panted heavily. She leaned back to gently rub his head, but Myles stopped her.

“Don’t lean in that direction,” he said.

At that moment, Leslie realized the tail end of the truck hung freely; only the front half was being supported by the trees. The entire vehicle was rocking backward, and if it tilted much further, they would end up careening madly down the mountainside.

“Carefully open your door and climb out,” Myles instructed, and Leslie didn’t miss the hint of fear in his voice. “Once you’re out, I’ll get Sergeant.”

Nodding, Leslie reached out a trembling hand, grabbed the door handle, and tried to push the passenger door open, but it wouldn’t budge. The door was jammed shut. Sergeant whined from the back seat and tried to jump up, causing the truck to rock even harder, and Leslie’s stomach dropped.

“Sergeant, sit,” she commanded, breathing a sigh of relief when he obeyed her. Looking over at Myles, she said, “I can’t get the door open.”

“Push harder,” he stated.

Taking a deep breath, Leslie did as he asked, but it was no use. The door wasn’t budging. When she looked questioningly back at Myles, she noticed how pale he was becoming.

“Here, use this to break the window,” he said, handing her a glass-breaking tool from the center console. “Just watch your eyes.”

Swallowing past the lump in her throat, Leslie turned her head away and pressed the device firmly into the window. It instantly shattered, and she pushed at the broken glass with her elbow, wincing as glass flew everywhere. Gently wiping herself off, she grasped onto the outside of the door and hoisted herself out the window. She sat there for a moment, judging the distance between her perch and the road. She could make it in one jump, but if she slipped on the ice and fell backward, it could be treacherous for them all.

Easing one leg down toward the ground, Leslie released her hold on the truck and let her entire weight fall downward. She landed on the rocky slope, and for a brief second, her foot slipped beneath her. She launched forward and caught herself, cutting her hand on a piece of glass in the process. Slowly standing up, she shivered. The wind still howled and freezing sleet slapped her against the cheeks, but Leslie ignored it. She had to help Myles and Sergeant.

“Come on, boy,” she could hear Myles saying, and over the sound of the wind, a frightened but menacing growl vibrated past Sergeant’s throat.

Carefully moving down the side of the truck, Leslie reached up and grasped onto the back door. Using every bit of strength she had, she was somehow able to work against gravity and pull the door open.

“It’s okay, buddy,” she called out to the trembling dog. She knew with everything that had happened, he was suffering from an anxiety attack. If she couldn’t get him to calm down and come to her, she wasn’t sure what was going to happen. “Sergeant, come here,” she said in a gentle voice.

The dog stood frozen in place for a moment, as if too terrified to move, and Leslie’s heart dropped when she realized he might be hurt. It was getting too dark to see if there was any blood, and she hoped one of his legs hadn’t been broken in the wreck. That would also explain why he was acting so skittish.

Finally, after what felt like an agonizing amount of time, Sergeant moved tentatively toward her. He didn’t appear to be hurt, and Leslie breathed a sigh of relief. The wind was pounding against the truck, causing the rocking and tilting to get worse, and Leslie knew they had to hurry.

“Get out of there, Myles!” she called out. “I’ve got Sergeant.”

Nodding, Myles slowly crawled across the console toward the passenger side window. Leslie could hear the crunching of glass with every move he made, and she knew he was going to be cut to pieces. Forcing her attention away from him, she focused on Sergeant once more, beckoning him to come to her. He continued to inch her way, and when he suddenly jumped up onto the back seat, the truck groaned and began tilting further. Myles shoved himself out the window just as Leslie grabbed Sergeant’s collar. With the sudden movement, the dog bucked against her at first, but when she firmly told him to “come”, he quickly obeyed. The three of them landed in a heap on the ground just as the truck slid away from its anchor and slammed down the mountainside with a sound like that of thunder.

They all lay there, trembling, as they tried to grasp just how close they’d come to dying. Sergeant nestled his nose against her neck and whined, and Leslie felt a tear slip down her cheek.

“Are you okay?”

The warmth of Myles’ breath against her face felt comforting somehow, and Leslie nodded. Taking her by the elbow, he helped her stand up. Leslie kept a firm grip on Sergeant’s collar as she allowed Myles to lead her up the hill and onto the road. Her legs were trembling so hard she wasn’t certain she could walk, but she forced herself to get a grip. If they’d just survived a near-death experience, she could certainly walk.

“Let’s head toward those lights we saw earlier,” Myles called out over the sound of the wind.

Hand in hand, they walked down the slippery road as sleet sliced against their cheeks. They slid several times but managed to keep going, and after what felt like hours, they finally came upon a small log cabin. They hurried to the front door and knocked, hoping the people inside would be welcoming. Otherwise, they would die if they had to stay out in such dangerous weather.

After a few seconds, the front door swung open to reveal an elderly gentleman with white hair and glasses. One might think he wasn’t the overly intimidating type, except for the fact that he held a shotgun in his hand.

“Who are you and what do you want?” he demanded in a stern tone.

Holding up both hands, Myles said, “My, uh, wife and I were driving around when we got caught in the storm. Our truck went off the side of the mountain, but luckily, we were able to get out.”

The man stared at them with narrowed eyes, but when he opened his mouth to speak, a tiny woman who appeared to be his age stepped forward and peered around the doorway. Her eyes were kind as she quickly surveyed the young couple standing on her porch, and then she smiled.

“Oh, let them in, Quincy,” she told her husband. “It’s obvious to anyone with eyes that they’re harmless!”

Still wearing a slightly wary expression, Quincy stepped aside and motioned for them to come in. “No dogs,” he stated when he spotted Sergeant, and Leslie’s heart sank.

“You can’t expect the poor creature to stay outside in this weather,” his wife protested.

Giving her a look, Quincy stated, “Sadie, dogs ain’t never been allowed in this house, and I don’t intend to…”

“Oh, hush,” Sadie interrupted, completely unfazed by her husband’s rant. Smiling brightly at Leslie and Myles, she said, “Don’t pay him no mind; he’s just grumpy because he can’t listen to his program tonight.” At their look of confusion, she added, “Bad weather always affects the radio.”

Leslie, Myles, and Sergeant all filed inside the cozy little cabin. A fire burned in the fireplace, the smell of coffee emanated from the kitchen, and a small clock chimed from the mantle. An old rocking chair with a hand-crochet afghan draped across the back gently rocked near the sofa, as if someone had just left its seat, and a worn-looking guitar rested against the hearth. Pictures from the last fifty-plus years hung from the walls, and a few of them even looked hand-painted.

“You poor dears, you’re all soaking wet!” Sadie exclaimed. “Let me get you a change of clothes.”

The tiny woman hurried off into what appeared to be the only other room in the house, leaving Leslie and Myles with old Mr. Quincy. He frowned and shuffled around for a moment before going to hang his shotgun on a peg by the front door. Seconds later, Sadie hurried back into the room, carrying an armload of clothes.

“Here you go, sweetie,” she said, shoving an old winter housecoat into Leslie’s arms. She then handed a pair of wool pants and a long-sleeved shirt to Myles, along with some antiseptic and bandages. “These clothes might not be the most stylish, but at least they’re warm. Once you’ve changed, you need to tend to those cuts, young man.”

Leslie and Myles thanked Sadie just as she turned to look at Sergeant. “You’re wet, too, you poor thing,” she tsked, stepping forward to pet him. Leslie opened her mouth to caution her due to Sergeant’s mood and how stressed he’d been, but she stopped when the large dog’s tail gently began to wag. He not only allowed Sadie to pet him, but he even followed her into the kitchen, where she grabbed a towel and began to dry him.

“I guess I’ll, uh, show y’all where you can get changed,” Quincy muttered.

He led them into the bedroom and pointed to the door across the room. “There’s the bathroom,” he said before shuffling back out of the room.

“I can’t believe you told them I’m your wife,” Leslie told Myles as soon as the bedroom door closed.

Myles looked at her and smiled slightly. “In my eyes, you’ll always be my wife, Les,” he replied softly.

With a frown, Leslie stalked across the room and into the bathroom, closing the door behind her. When she emerged moments later, Myles had already changed and was standing in front of the mirror as he tended to the cut on his forehead. He looked up when she entered and started chuckling.

“What’s so funny?” she wanted to know, placing a hand on her hip.

“I never thought I’d say this, but you look exactly like someone’s granny,” he replied, his eyes watering from the laughter.

Her lips twitching, Leslie looked into the mirror and took in the deep purple velvet house robe that zipped all the way up the front. Embroidered flowers dotted the top part of the chest, and with her hair wrapped up in a towel, she had to admit he was right. She did look like a granny.

“Hush,” she told him, trying to keep a stern expression. It was no use, though. After a moment, she started laughing as well.

“I don’t think I look much better, though,” Myles said as he glanced down at his worn-looking shirt and flannel pants.

“Well, at least they’re clean,” Leslie said with a smile. “It was very thoughtful for Mrs. Sadie to loan them to us. Here, let me help you with that.”

Reaching out to take the antiseptic and bandages from Myles, Leslie stepped closer and began to dab a bit of the medicine onto his forehead. His face was only inches from hers, and she found the way his breath blew the stray tendrils around her neck to be very distracting.

“Thanks,” he said in a low, warm tone.

Leslie looked into his eyes then, and a flush crept all over her body. She hadn’t been this close to him in months, and after everything they’d been through this afternoon, she found herself feeling vulnerable.

Clearing her throat, Leslie stepped back and stammered, “You’re welcome. The, uh, bleeding has stopped, so I don’t think you’ll need the bandage. You should see about those cuts on your hands and knees, though.”

As they walked back into the main room moments later, they were surprised to find Sergeant curled up beside the fire next to Mr. Quincy. The old man was sitting in the rocking chair, humming softly under his breath, and both dog and man looked completely relaxed.

“He’s not so bad, is he?” Quincy asked, nodding at the sleeping dog.

Leslie smiled and shook her head. “No. He’s pretty great.”

“The wife is fixing him some chicken and rice we had left over from lunch,” Quincy said.

“I’m also making some chili for us all,” Sadie called from the kitchen. “It’ll be ready in about an hour. Y’all want some cornbread?”

Leslie went into the kitchen to help with dinner, leaving Myles in the living room to get better acquainted with Quincy. As she thanked Sadie for the clothes and everything they were doing for them, she was surprised to hear the two men carrying on what sounded like a lively conversation.

“I’m glad Quincy got into a better mood,” Sadie said in a low voice, her eyes twinkling. “I told you he’s not normally such a grouch.”

“Well, I can’t blame him for being hesitant about allowing strangers into his house,” Leslie said as she began mixing the ingredients for the cornbread.

Eyeing Leslie for a moment, Sadie asked, “Y’all weren’t just driving around, we’re y’all?”

Leslie hesitated, uncertain of how much to tell the woman. Finally, she shook her head and said, “No, we weren’t. Myles is a police officer, but I’m afraid I can’t tell you why we came up here.”

“It’s got something to do with that big cabin up the hill, doesn’t it?” she questioned. When Leslie glanced at the older woman in surprise, Sadie chuckled and said, “We’re old, honey, not dumb. We’ve known for a while now that something strange has been going on up there.”

“Well, hopefully once we can get back to town, Myles will be able to get the situation seen about,” Leslie replied.

With a small smile, Sadie asked, “How long y’all been married?”

Once again, Leslie hesitated. She considered blurring the truth a bit but decided to just be honest. “We got married five years ago, but we’re actually separated…well, divorced now.”

Sadie’s eyes widened. “I’m sorry to hear that,” she said softly. “It’s obvious by the way you two look at each other that you still care a great deal about one another.”

Leslie stopped what she was doing and looked up at Sadie in surprise. She opened her mouth to say something and then stopped. Shaking her head, she said in a firm tone, “No, I’m sorry, but you’re wrong. There’s nothing left between us.”

Sadie didn’t say another word about it, and soon the conversation turned to something else. At the sound of laughter, Leslie glanced into the living room to see a smile on Myles’ face. She stared at the rare sight for a moment, taking in how it softened his features and brightened his whole face. He was leaning against the back of the sofa, entirely relaxed as Mr. Quincy talked, and Leslie found herself feeling another twinge of attraction stirring inside of her.

Shaking herself, she went over to the oven to check on the cornbread. As much as she was enjoying this little stay with Quincy and Sadie, being in such close proximity to her ex-husband was not a good idea. When Sadie announced that they would have to both sleep in the living room, Leslie sighed inwardly. It was going to be a long night.

CHAPTER 25

Zaylie

As Zaylie’s body sailed through the air, a gasp caught in her throat and time seemed to suddenly go by in slow motion. The faces in the paintings on the walls stared at her with cold, hard eyes, and through the haze of panic shooting through her veins, she could hear Micah yelling from below. A million thoughts ran through her mind as she wondered if this was it. Was she about to die, just like old Mr. Herbert’s fiancé so long ago?

All at once, everything went into full speed and her left shoulder slammed painfully against the stairs. She felt the breath leave her lungs as the pain from the impact shot down her arm like the touch from a hot iron. Her body folded in half as her legs flew over her head, but she somehow managed to throw out her right hand and catch hold of one of the wooden spindles. It broke, but it slowed her descent enough that she was able to stop herself from tumbling down the rest of the way. She lay there, panting and moaning in pain as Micah launched himself up the stairs toward her.

“Zaylie, are you okay?” he gasped once he reached her side.

“I-I don’t know,” she gasped. “My sh-shoulder.” Then she remembered Basil, and in a panicked voice, she hissed, “Upstairs. M-Micah, Basil Lockwood is up there!”

Ernie’s face appeared beside Micah’s just then, his eyes filled with concern. When he heard Zaylie’s statement, the color left his face and he glanced up the stairs.

“Are you sure?” he wanted to know.

Zaylie nodded. “Yes, I’m positive.”

Grabbing his phone, Ernie said, “I’m calling the police.”

“Did he push you?” Micah demanded, his face turning red.

“No.” Zaylie shook her head and then winced when the movement jarred her shoulder.

Micah quickly checked Zaylie’s shoulder and said, “I don’t believe it’s broken, so let’s get you out of here.”

“You don’t want to call an ambulance?” Ernie asked.

“It’s more dangerous to stay here in this house with a killer on the loose than it is to move her,” Micah snapped, his eyes continuously darting up the stairs as if he expected Basil to emerge at any moment.

The two men help Zaylie to her feet and down the stairs. Once they made it to the ground floor, Micah picked her up and hurried outside. Just before the front door closed behind them, Zaylie glanced over his shoulder and up the stairs. Was Basil still there? Or was he long gone by now? And what had he been doing in the house in the first place?

----------

Gran met Zaylie and Micah at the emergency clinic and followed them inside.

“I can’t believe this has happened,” she wailed. “Zaylie, honey, you could have broken your neck!”

“Don’t I know it,” Zaylie muttered.

“I think we need to go somewhere,” Gran stated, her eyes wild and her hands fluttering all around as she jabbered. “How does a two-week cruise sound? Surely by then, they’ll have this man in custody, and if they don’t, we may just have to leave the island for good because…”

“Gran,” Zaylie interrupted, reaching out with her good arm to touch her grandmother’s hand. “Calm down. We can’t book any vacations right now, not with the new training center set to open soon.”

Pulling her hand away, Gran stated indignantly, “I’ll hire you a bodyguard then. I’m not going to be constantly worried about your safety every second of the day.”

I doubt a bodyguard would be any good against that man, Zaylie thought but didn’t dare say it out loud.

With a smile, she said instead, “We’ll talk about it later, okay?”

As soon as they were checked in, Zaylie was taken back for X-rays. Just as Micah had said, nothing was broken, for which Zaylie was truly thankful. Surprisingly, her shoulder had only suffered a mild sprain, which the doctor said was a miracle considering the type of fall she’d taken.

“I’ll prescribe some pain medication for you,” he told her, “and you’ll need to wear a sling for about a week. When you get home tonight, put some ice on your shoulder. You should be as good as new in a couple of weeks.”

“Thank you, Doctor,” she said with a relieved smile.

They had just left the clinic when Micah’s cell phone rang. “It’s Bill Harper,” he said as he answered the call.

“How is Zaylie?” Bill immediately wanted to know.

Leaning toward the phone, Zaylie said, “I’m okay, Uncle Bill. I just have a sprained shoulder.”

“Thank God.” Bill sighed. “It could have been so much worse.”

“It certainly could have been,” Gran spoke up.

“Did y’all find Lockwood?” Zaylie asked hopefully.

“No, he’d already gone by the time we got there,” Bill replied, his voice filled with frustration.

“Naturally,” Gran muttered.

“No sign of him at all?” Micah asked.

“None. I called the Chatham County police, and they’re sending some forensic guys over tonight to check the house, but I doubt they’ll find anything. The man is a ghost.”

“Why do you think he was there?” Zaylie wanted to know.

Bill sighed again. “Ernie thinks he was there to kill Danette,” he replied, “and I tend to agree with him. I have a feeling he didn’t realize you were in the hallway when he stepped out of that room he was hiding in.”

“So, you don’t think he was after my granddaughter?” Gran questioned.

“No, Mrs. Ferguson,” Bill replied. “He has no reason to be after Zaylie. I think she simply took him by surprise.”

“Does a crazed killer ever have good reasons for doing the things they do?” Gran murmured, her lips pursed.

“Let us know if the forensics team finds anything,” Zaylie said.

“Will do. Now go home and get some rest, young lady.”

Zaylie promised that she would, and they ended the call. Looking up at Micah, Zaylie smiled sweetly and asked, “Ready to go to that new Italian restaurant now?”

She couldn’t help but laugh when both her boyfriend and grandmother lit into her with a lecture that could rival that of any college professor. Shaking her head, she said with a chuckle, “Okay, okay, I was just teasing. I’ll go on home with Gran now and go to bed.”

“You’d better,” Micah said, leaning over to give her a warm kiss. Pulling back just enough to look her in the eyes, he added softly, “I’m so thankful you’re alright. I’ll call you tomorrow, okay?”

Zaylie nodded and climbed into Gran’s car. As they drove away, she leaned her head back against the seat and sighed. She’d almost been killed tonight; it sure felt good to be alive.

CHAPTER 26

Leslie

After eating the delicious chili and cornbread, the four of them sat around the kitchen table and talked. Leslie was amazed at how both Myles and Mr. Quincy had come out of their shells; it was obvious how well they connected with each other. Quincy even stated once that he'd always wished for a son, and Leslie understood then why he and Myles got along so well.

“We were never blessed with children,” Sadie said, her eyes sad. “But we weren’t ever lonely, were we, honey?”

Quincy shook his head and smiled softly. “When we lived closer to town, Sadie’s niece lived with us for a few years. That sure was nice.”

“That’s right.” Sadie nodded. “And I always felt that the kids in my Sunday School class were a bit like my own children. It was such a blessing to watch them all grow up.”

“What made y’all decide to move all the way up here?” Myles asked.

“This cabin belonged to my great-grandfather,” Quincy stated. “I was raised here, and when we lost our house in a flood several years ago, we decided it was right for us to move back here.”

“You don’t ever feel isolated way up here?” Leslie wanted to know.

“No, not as long as we have each other,” Sadie replied. Smiling gently at her husband, she reached over to pat his hand. In that one small gesture, Leslie saw years of love and commitment. These two had obviously been through a lot together, and they still evidently had a great deal of love for each other.

“Sadie’s niece checks on us pretty often,” Quincy said. “And I know if anything ever happened to me, she would take care of Sadie.”

“It’s nice to have people who care about you,” Leslie said softly.

At her words, Myles looked up and their eyes met. There was something in his expression that made Leslie uncomfortable, and she quickly glanced away. She could feel his gaze on her still, and she swiftly changed the subject. The four of them continued to talk well into the night while the wind howled loudly outside and Sergeant slept peacefully by the fireplace. When the clock on the mantle chimed ten times, Sadie and Quincy announced it was past their bedtime.

After bringing a couple of pillows and some blankets into the living room for Leslie and Myles, the older couple bid them a good night and went to bed.

“You take the sofa,” Myles said as he folded one of the blankets and laid it on the floor in front of the fireplace. “I’ll sleep down here.”

Leslie didn’t argue, but she insisted he take an extra blanket to cover up with. “It’s colder on the floor than it is up here,” she said as she curled up on the comfortable sofa.

Myles stretched out on the floor next to Sergeant and closed his eyes. After a moment, he said, “They sure are a nice couple.”

“Yes, they are,” Leslie agreed with a smile. “You and Mr. Quincy sure ended up hitting it off.”

Myles nodded. “I never knew my grandparents,” he said, his voice soft, “but I’d like to imagine they would have been something like Quincy and Sadie.”

Leslie felt a sense of sadness settle over her at Myles’ words. She’d had wonderful grandparents, and even though they were gone now, she would carry them with her always. What must it have been like for Myles to not experience the special love and care that only a grandparent can give? It broke her heart, but the few stories he’d shared of his past had always broken her heart.

“Maybe once we get through this, we can come back and visit them,” she said softly.

Myles opened his eyes and looked over at her. “We?” he asked.

Leslie cleared her throat and looked away. “Well, not at the same time…”

“I wouldn’t mind that,” he interrupted.

Leslie sighed. “It’s not the best idea,” she said.

“Why not?” he wanted to know.

Leslie gave him a pointed look. “Because we’re divorced, Myles,” she stated bluntly, “and spending too much time together is not ideal.”

Myles didn’t say anything for a moment; he just continued to lay there, staring up at the ceiling. Finally, he sat up and faced her, his gaze intense and more open than she’d seen in a long time. “I miss you, Les,” he said. “I miss us.”

An ocean of tears swelled into Leslie’s eyes with the intensity of a burning fire, and she swallowed past the sudden lump in her throat. Sitting up, she pulled the blanket tight around her shoulders and said, “Well, it’s a little too late for that.”

“Is it?” he wanted to know, his gaze a bit too searching and probing.

She nodded firmly. “Yes, it is.”

Standing up, Myles walked over and sat next to her on the sofa. Leslie felt her cheeks begin to burn, and the sudden, urgent feeling to run away swept over her so forcefully that if it hadn’t been sleeting outside, she’d have marched right out the front door.

“Can’t you give me another chance?” he asked, and she could feel his breath tickling along the side of her face.

As if sensing the panic coursing through her body, Sergeant suddenly sat up and looked at her. His eyes carefully studied her and Myles, and after assessing the situation, he came and sat at her feet.

“Give you another chance to what?” she hissed, turning to glare at her ex-husband. “To run out on me again? To break my heart?”

Pain flashed across Myles’ face, and he shook his head. “I didn’t walk out on you,” he insisted. “I was going to come back.”

Leslie huffed in disbelief. “And I was supposed to just magically know that? Myles, you left town, and you wouldn’t even communicate with me! What kind of loving husband does that to his wife?”

“We both needed space,” he told her. “Did I handle it in the right way? No. I can see that now. But at the time, I thought it was the right thing to do.”

All the hurt and pain of those days flooded back over Leslie, and she leaned her head against the sofa and choked back a sob. “How could you think that leaving me was the right thing to do?” she whispered. “Losing our baby was the worst thing I’ve ever experienced in my life. I was completely broken, Myles, but did you stay around and support me? No. You left when I needed you the most.”

Myles didn’t say anything for a moment, and Leslie didn’t bother to look at him. She wasn’t sure if she could stand to see the guilt on his face. She hated him; she hated what he’d done to her and what he was still doing.

“I did stay and try to support you,” he finally said in a broken voice, “but you didn’t want me around. After three months of seeing the look of blame in your eyes every time you looked at me, I couldn’t stand it any longer. I thought if I left you alone for a little while, you’d be able to heal and forgive me.”

Leslie looked at him in disbelief. “What are you talking about?” she demanded.

“Don’t try to deny it, Leslie,” he stated, his tone growing cold. “The accident was my fault, and you blamed me for our baby’s death.”

Leslie sat there in silence, trying to understand what Myles was saying. Everything felt so blurred and off-kilter, like the world had suddenly tilted on its axis. Why did he say she’d blamed him? What was he talking about?

“I can’t believe you’re turning this all around on me,” she whispered as she moved closer to the arm of the sofa, trying to create more space between them. She didn’t want him so close to her. She wanted him to walk out the front door and into the storm so she would never have to see him again.

“I’m not turning this around on you,” he replied, sighing heavily. “There was nothing wrong with you blaming me, because I blamed myself. I still do.”

Leslie squeezed her eyes shut, trying to remember that day. She’d blocked it out for so long in an effort to ignore the pain that she could feel the tension rising in her body as the memories started to come back. They’d been on their way to her six-month doctor’s appointment, and they were arguing.

“Why don’t you like any of the names I’ve picked out?” she’d wanted to know.

Myles was driving, and she could still see the way his hands had tightened around the steering wheel. “Why do you have to keep badgering me about this?” he’d asked. “I’ve already told you I don’t care what name you choose.”

“Or you just don’t care at all,” she’d muttered.

Looking over at her with a frown, Myles asked, “What is that supposed to mean?”

Leslie shrugged. “You said when we were dating that you weren’t sure if you wanted kids,” she’d replied, allowing her unbalanced hormones and lack of sleep to get the better of her. “I’m starting to think that’s still the case.”

“I said I wasn’t sure if I would make a good father after the childhood I had,” Myles had stated, his voice filled with frustration.

The argument grew worse, and through the haze of memory, Leslie could still see the look of anger on Myles’ face just before the car hit them. He’d been looking at her, not paying attention, and ran a red light. An SUV hit them on the passenger side of the car, instantly killing the baby.

Leslie looked at Myles then, really looked at him. Was he right? Had she blamed him for the baby’s death? She hadn’t even realized it, but now she could remember pulling away when he’d tried to comfort her, and refusing to talk about what happened when he would broach the subject. She’d been buried beneath a fog of pain and despair, and deep down, she knew she really had blamed him to keep from blaming herself.

“I’m the one who started the argument that day,” she said in a hoarse voice. “If anyone is to blame, it’s me.”

Shaking his head, Myles reached across the sofa and took her hand. “No, Les,” he said, tears filling his eyes. “It was my job to protect you both, and I failed. I’m so, so sorry. Can you ever forgive me?”

“Yes, if you can forgive me,” she whispered.

Leslie gave in to the sobs then, and Myles pulled her into his arms, cradling her like a baby as they both cried. Leslie thought about how different their lives could have been if they hadn’t been arguing that day. Their child would most likely be alive and healthy, they would still be together, and Leslie’s heart wouldn’t be a tattered and broken battlefield of scars.

CHAPTER 27

Zaylie

The next morning, Zaylie was so stiff and sore she felt like she’d been in a fight. She’d slept like a zombie thanks to the pain medication, and she could barely pull herself out of bed. When she stumbled into the kitchen, Gran was making Zaylie’s favorite breakfast: blueberry pancakes.

“You spoil me too much,” Zaylie said with a smile as she kissed Gran on the cheek.

“After what you’ve been through, I’d say you deserve a little spoiling,” Gran replied.

Grabbing the maple syrup from the pantry, Zaylie sat at the table and yawned. “Do you think Basil Lockwood was at the Herbert estate to kill Mrs. Danette?” she asked.

Gran sighed. “It’s the only thing that makes sense,” she replied. “He’s going after everyone who betrayed him.”

Is Uncle Bill on that list? Zaylie wondered, worry tightening her stomach.

“I hope Bill is going to put a police officer at her house for protection,” Gran added. “She also needs to get a security system installed.”

As Gran brought over the steaming plate of blueberry pancakes, Zaylie nodded in agreement. “Ernie seemed pretty shaken up,” she said as she slathered butter on her delicious-looking breakfast. “I wonder how Basil got into the house?”

“The man sounds like a ninja to me,” Gran huffed as she joined Zaylie at the table. “Promise me you’ll be careful until they catch him? I almost lost you yesterday; I can’t stand the thought of anything happening to you.”

Zaylie reached out with her good hand and patted Gran’s arm. She and her grandmother had always been close, but after her older sister’s death over twenty years ago, they’d become even closer. Zaylie knew how painful it had been for Gran to lose one granddaughter, and she understood how terrifying it must be to have almost lost another.

“I’ll be careful,” she promised.

Her cell phone rang just then, and Zaylie saw that it was Danette Herbert-Lee.

“Zaylie, dear, how are you?” the woman asked when Zaylie answered. “I have been beside myself with worry.”

“Oh, I’m okay,” Zaylie assured her. “I have a sprained shoulder, but that’s it.”

“Thank God,” Mrs. Danette breathed. “It could have been so much worse. Zaylie, I am so sorry this happened. I feel responsible.”

“It wasn’t your fault,” Zaylie said. “There was no way you could have known that man was hiding in your house.”

“It terrifies me just to think about it,” Mrs. Danette said, her voice trembling slightly. “Harrison wants Ernie and me to stay with him on his yacht, but I don’t think that would be much safer.”

“Perhaps you should leave the island for a bit,” Zaylie suggested.

Mrs. Danette sighed. “Hannah told me the same thing, but I don’t know if there’s any use,” she stated. “If Basil is after me, he’ll follow me wherever I go. Plus, what if they never catch him? I can’t run forever. No, I’ve decided to stay here and add some extra security measures around the house.”

“That’s a good idea,” Zaylie replied. “Let’s hope they catch him soon.”

“Yes, I hope so. Well, feel better soon, and let me know if there is anything I can do for you.”

After getting off the phone and finishing her breakfast, Zaylie asked Gran if she’d help her get ready for church.

“You’re going to church?” Gran asked in surprise.

Zaylie nodded. “I hate to stay home just for a sprained shoulder,” she said.

An hour later, the two walked inside the old church their family had attended for the last 100+ years. Zaylie wore a green turtleneck sweater dress that enhanced the color of her eyes and a pair of black leather, high-heeled boots. Gran had French-braided Zaylie’s hair, making her feel like a teenager again, but Zaylie didn’t mind. The youthful look helped to counteract the puffy, dark circles under her eyes from sleeping so hard the night before.

When everyone saw Zaylie, they immediately flooded her way to ask questions and offer sympathy. Living in a small town meant that news spread with the speed of lightning, and Zaylie was amazed at how much larger the story had become.

“I heard he attacked you!” one lady exclaimed.

“Did he have a gun?” another asked.

“Someone told me he used some of that karate stuff on you,” an elderly gentleman stated.

“Zaylie! What on earth are you doing here?” Rita shrieked as she pushed her way through the crowd. “You should be at home resting.”

Excusing herself from the others with a kind smile, Zaylie took Rita’s hand and pulled her toward the church sanctuary. “I have a sprained shoulder,” she told her friend, “not a concussion. I’m fine.”

“I can’t believe you were almost killed,” Rita said, her black eyes filling with tears. “If they don’t catch this man soon, you and I are going on a girl trip.”

Zaylie laughed. “You sound exactly like Gran,” she said, shaking her head. “Even though a girl trip sounds amazing, you know I can’t go anywhere right now. For that matter, neither can you. How is school, by the way?”

Rita beamed with pride at Zaylie’s question. “Marvelous! My students have made amazing progress since I became their teacher…well, most of them have. Some of them are still hopeless little monsters, but the others are absolute angels.”

“Rita, you’re not supposed to have favorites,” Zaylie told her friend.

Waving a hand in the air, Rita said, “It’s not my fault some students are sweeter than others.”

Before Zaylie could reply, a voice beside her ear said, “You know, if I couldn’t beat Lockwood in a fighting match, why did you think you could?”

Her lips twitching, Zaylie turned toward Ryker and stated, “We both know I’m tougher than you, so I thought I’d give it a try.”

Ryker laughed. “You’re obviously a comedian, too,” he said, his hazel eyes twinkling.

Her argument with Micah suddenly floated through her mind, and when the pianist began to play an old hymn, she was grateful for the interruption. The last thing she wanted was to get into another quarrel with Micah over Ryker. As she walked into the sanctuary with everyone else, she saw Micah waiting for her on the pew next to Gran. When he saw her, his handsome features relaxed into a warm smile.

“Hey, beautiful,” he said, leaning over to kiss her on the cheek. “How is your shoulder?”

“Still attached, thankfully,” she replied with a wink.

The remainder of the service was lovely, and Zaylie was glad she’d decided to come. There was something strengthening and invigorating about being in church, and once it was over, she felt like a new person.

As they were leaving, Zaylie’s good mood was quickly dampened as she listened to the worried conversations all around her. Everyone was even more on edge about Basil Lockwood than before. A few of the widows who lived alone were planning to stay together for a few days, and Zaylie heard several young mothers expressing their concerns about their children going to school or playing outside. Ever since Basil’s escape from prison, it was like a dark shadow had appeared over the island, and Zaylie didn’t know where it was going to end.

CHAPTER 28

Leslie

The next day was clear, and the sun shone brightly from the sky. Sadie got up early and fixed them all a delicious breakfast of scrambled eggs, toast, waffles, and bacon. Leslie wasn’t very hungry, though; she’d stayed up most of the night thinking about her conversation with Myles, and she was exhausted. She felt conflicted about her feelings for her ex-husband. She’d forgiven him, but did that mean she should open herself back up to having her heart possibly broken again? She wasn’t sure. She’d spent the last several months since their divorce hardening her heart and trying to move on that the thought of going back to everything terrified her.

By early afternoon, the ice had melted and it was time to go home. Since Myles’ truck was lying at the bottom of a mountainside, Quincy offered to drive them back home. Sadie wanted to go with them, and after changing back into their regular clothes, they all piled up into Quincy’s old pickup.

On their way down the mountain, Myles spotted his truck smashed between a couple of trees halfway down a hill. The truck was totaled, but Myles said he would contact a wreckage removal company in the morning. As they drove past the crushed truck, Leslie shivered as she thought of how they would all most likely be dead if they hadn’t managed to escape. Suddenly, the world looked a little brighter.

When they finally made it down the mountain, they went to Leslie’s house first. They would take Myles home next, and since it was Sunday, he wouldn’t be able to talk to the sheriff until the next day. Leslie wasn’t sure if her nerves could handle waiting another day to find out what was going to happen.

Although she was exhausted and aching to take a nap, Leslie was sad to say goodbye to Quincy and Sadie and asked everyone if they’d like to come inside.

“No, honey, you need to get some rest,” Sadie said as she climbed out of the truck to give Leslie a hug. “I’ve got your phone number, so I’ll call you soon, okay?”

Leslie nodded. “I would love that,” she said, squeezing the older woman warmly. “Thank you for saving our lives, Sadie.”

With a soft smile, Sadie cupped Leslie’s cheek and said, “Thank you for bringing some excitement into a boring old couple’s lives.”

As Sadie gave Sergeant a goodbye rub behind the ears, Leslie waved to Quincy and said, “Thank you for everything, Mr. Quincy.”

Rolling the window down, Quincy said, “You keep in touch now, you hear?”

Leslie promised that she would, and as the three of them drove off toward Myles’ house, she couldn’t help but feel a bit lonely. What a crazy twenty-four hours it had been! When she’d agreed to go with Myles up the mountain, she’d never dreamed that any of this would happen.

With a yawn, Leslie turned and walked up to her house with Sergeant following close behind. She lived in a quiet, private area only a couple of miles from the training center, and she loved the solitude. This was the first house she’d ever owned, and she and Myles had lived there while they were married. At times, she was bombarded by memories, and she still had yet to enter the nursery since the baby’s death. Maybe now that she and Myles had talked things out, she could start putting some of the pain behind her.

Leslie put the key into the lock and pushed the front door open. The house was still and quiet, as usual, but as soon as they stepped inside, something felt wrong. Sergeant sensed it, too, and he immediately began growling.

Reaching out to grab a hand-carved walking stick that had belonged to her grandfather, Leslie clutched it tightly in her hand as she slowly began to walk through the house. She’d never felt unsafe here before, so what was causing the hair on the back of her neck to tingle now? Was she and Sergeant simply on edge after everything they’d been through the last twenty-four hours? Or was someone in the house?

She walked across the living room, suddenly noticing all the places someone could be hiding. Behind the sofa or loveseat, around the corner that led into the kitchen, or behind the floor-to-ceiling curtains that covered the back windows. Nothing seemed to be disturbed or moved out of place, but something in the back of her mind was sounding off alarm signals.

Leslie’s heart pounded as she rounded the corner and peered into the kitchen. She quickly flipped on the light, breathing a sigh of relief when no one jumped from the walk-in pantry or from beside the refrigerator. Just then, she realized Sergeant was no longer at her side, and she retraced her steps to find him standing at the foot of the staircase. He was staring up toward the second floor, his teeth slightly bared and his hackles standing on end.

Feeling a sense of panic, Leslie wondered if she should call the police. What would she say, though? That although there was no sign of a break-in, she felt like someone was in the house? She could call Myles, but he wouldn’t be home yet, and she hated for Quincy and Sadie to drive him all the way back to her house.

Suddenly, Sergeant took off up the stairs, and Leslie’s heart caught. What should she do? With a groan, she clutched the walking stick tighter and raced after him. When she reached the top floor, she fumbled along the wall with trembling fingers until she found the light switch. Just down the hall, Sergeant was standing at her bedroom door, pawing at the floor. The door was shut, so why did he want to go in so badly?

Taking a deep breath, Leslie slowly walked toward the dog, her eyes darting from left to right at the other doors she passed. The nursery, the hall bathroom, the guest bedroom, the linen closet. Her entire body was tense as she waited for someone to jump out at any time and grab her. Was she simply on edge and overreacting? It had been known to happen before, but why was Sergeant acting so strangely?

She finally reached her bedroom door, and with a shaking hand, she grabbed the doorknob and twisted. The door swung open with a squeak, and Sergeant raced inside. With the walking stick held above her head, ready to strike, Leslie hurried after him and turned the overhead light on to find…

Nothing. Her room was completely undisturbed, and no one was hiding inside. Her eyes drifted toward the closet, and she forced herself to check it out as well. Since she was a little girl, she’d always been terrified of closets. They were small and dark, with plenty of places for a “boogeyman” to hide among all the clothes. When she peered inside and turned on the light, however, she saw that it was empty as well.

With a sigh, Leslie turned to frown at Sergeant, who was sniffing around her dresser. When she went over to scold him for nearly scaring her to death, something caught her eye. She stared at it for a moment, feeling confused. It was her wedding ring. Ever since the divorce, she’d kept it in the top drawer, but now it was sitting out on the top of the dresser with her smartwatch and hair ties. Reaching out to pick it up, Leslie studied it for a moment as she thought about the last few days. Had she gotten the ring out for some reason and left it lying on the dresser? No, she was certain she hadn’t. She hadn’t touched the ring in months. So that meant…

Someone really had been inside her house. Slowly turning to warily look around once again, Leslie wondered if they were still there.

CHAPTER 29

Zaylie

Sunday evening, Micah called and asked if Zaylie felt up to going on a double date.

“I bumped into Grady Young at the market, and he mentioned that he and Rita were going to that new Italian restaurant you’ve been wanting to try,” he told her. “He asked if we’d like to come along, but I told him I needed to check with you first.”

“That sounds great to me,” Zaylie readily agreed.

“Are you sure?” he asked. “I don’t want you to overdo it.”

Zaylie smiled. “I’m positive, Dr. Pierce,” she assured him.

“Great. I’ll pick you up at 7:00,” he said.

When they arrived at the restaurant, Grady and Rita were already there. The place was busy, and the aroma floating through the air was heavenly. Micah’s cell phone rang as soon as they stepped inside, but he quickly ignored the call.

“Nothing important?” Zaylie asked.

Not quite meeting her eyes, Micah shook his head and said, “No.”

“We put our name in,” Grady interrupted. “It should only be about fifteen minutes until we’re seated.”

Zaylie gazed around the room, taking in the cozy atmosphere. The building itself was over three hundred years old and had been used in various different ways throughout the years. Beautiful paintings of Italy hung from the rustic brick walls, string lights draped gracefully from the ceiling, and a violinist played softly in one corner. As Zaylie took it all in, she was surprised to see two familiar faces in the crowd.

“Isn’t that Mrs. Danette’s boyfriend?” Rita asked in a low tone.

Zaylie nodded. “Yes, and the woman he’s with is Ernie’s girlfriend, Stacey,” she replied.

The two were seated at a more private table in the corner, and they appeared to be in deep conversation. Harrison reached across the table and touched Stacey’s hand, and she didn’t bother to pull it away.

“What do you think that’s about?” Rita wanted to know, her eyes bright with the thought of tripping over a bit of juicy gossip.

“I don’t know, unless they met here by accident,” Zaylie said. “They do seem to be pretty comfortable with each other, though.”

Just then, Ernie stepped inside and began pushing his way through the crowd of people at the front entrance. When Stacey looked up and saw him, she said something to Harrison and he immediately got up and hurried out the back way. She then waved to Ernie with a bright smile, and he went over to join her. Before taking the seat that Harrison had just vacated, Ernie leaned over and kissed her. When he sat down, he was beaming.

“Well, he certainly has no clue,” Rita scoffed. “Should we tell him his girlfriend is cheating on him with his cousin’s boyfriend? Apparently, this girl likes older men.”

Zaylie elbowed her friend. “Rita!” she scolded her. “We don’t know that she’s cheating with Harrison. There could be a very reasonable explanation.”

Raising an eyebrow, Rita asked dryly, “Such as?”

Zaylie thought it over for a moment and then sighed. “If I think of anything, I’ll let you know,” she finally said with a chuckle.

Their name was called then, and they were led to a table not very far from where Stacey and Ernie sat. The two were so engrossed with each other, though, that they didn’t notice anyone else.

“So, Grady, how is Zaylie’s new training center coming along?” Micah asked after they’d placed their orders.

Grady Young was part of the construction crew that had been working at Azalea Bluff for the last few months. With everything that had happened after finding the body of Zaylie’s great-aunt buried in the backyard, things had gotten backed up, to say the least.

“We’re finally getting there,” Rita’s handsome date replied with a smile. “My boss said we’ve only got a couple of weeks or so left.”

“We’re going to have to throw a party for the big opening,” Rita stated excitedly. “What do you say, Zaylie? I’ll plan it for you!”

“If you’re willing to plan it, who am I to say no?” Zaylie laughed. With a sigh, she added, “I’ve still got to find a couple of good trainers. I know we’ll be starting small, but I need at least two people that I can trust.”

“Micah, you’re a vet,” Rita said as she slathered butter onto a fresh, hot breadstick. “Can’t you think of anyone?”

Tilting his head to the side, Micah thought it over for a moment. Glancing at Zaylie, he said, “I can’t think of anyone here on the island, but what about Leslie’s ex?”

“Myles?” Zaylie asked in surprise. “He works for the Crescent Moon police department now.”

“But that’s just because he doesn’t want to work around his ex-wife anymore,” he persisted. “You’ve told me what a good trainer he is and how much he loved working with the dogs. Who knows? He might be ready for a change.”

Zaylie hesitated as she considered Micah’s suggestion. Myles had been one of her best trainers, and the dogs loved him. Plus, she knew how much it bothered Leslie when she would see him around town. Perhaps if he moved away, it would be better for them both.

“I’ll ask him,” she finally agreed.

Their food arrived then, and as everyone dug into their delicious dishes, Zaylie found her gaze straying over to Ernie and Stacey’s table. She was surprised to find that the air between the starry-eyed couple now seemed to be filled with tension. Stacey’s face was red, and she was motioning dramatically with her hands while Ernie leaned away from her, his jaw clenched.

“You know I can’t help it,” she heard Ernie snap.

Stacey rolled her eyes. “You’re supposed to be a man, Ernie,” she stated. “Act like it.”

“She’s family!” Ernie hissed.

“And also your master, who you refuse to stand up to,” Stacey replied snidely.

“How can you say that when I…”

Zaylie missed Ernie’s reply when their server arrived at their table to refill Rita’s water glass, but she could have sworn she heard him say something about “the stairs”. As the server asked about the food and Rita giggled over something, Zaylie tried to lean a little closer to the couple’s table. They’d lowered their voices significantly after Ernie’s last statement, but she still managed to catch a few words such as “accident” and “Basil Lockwood”. Stacey had also warmed up a bit and was leaning closer to Ernie with a simpering smile on her face.

“Zaylie?”

Blinking, Zaylie turned to find her dinner party all staring at her. “Uh, yes?” she asked sheepishly.

“The server asked if you needed anything,” Micah told her.

Smiling up at the young man, Zaylie said, “Oh, no, I’m good. Thanks.”

When the server walked away, Micah looked at Zaylie quizzically, but she simply smiled innocently at him and got back to eating her dinner. Ernie and Stacey stood up a few moments later and walked hand in hand from the restaurant. By the way they were looking at each other, it seemed their argument was over, and Stacey looked rather pleased with herself. What was she up to? And why had she been with Harrison before Ernie arrived? The two obviously wished to keep it a secret as well, since Harrison had slipped out the back.

As Zaylie watched the young couple walk outside and share a passionate kiss, she decided right then and there to find out more about Harrison Taylor. Something was suspicious about that man, and Zaylie wanted to know what.

CHAPTER 30

Leslie

Leslie hardly slept all night. She considered calling Myles but changed her mind. There was no actual evidence that anyone had been in her house, and running to her ex-husband over every little scare wasn’t a habit she needed to form. Besides, who would want to break into her house, anyway? She wasn’t rich and had no expensive paintings or jewelry; everyone around town knew that. Maybe she’d accidentally grabbed the ring along with something else from that top drawer and unknowingly dropped it onto the dresser.

Still, she was now uneasy in her own home, and so was Sergeant. The two spent the entire night downstairs in the living room, watching old Disney movies. By the time morning arrived, Leslie had only slept a couple of hours. Thankfully, though, no one had bothered them.

It was a few minutes after eight o’clock when Myles called, and Leslie quickly answered. She knew he would be speaking with the sheriff this morning, and her stomach was in knots.

“Have you talked to him?” she immediately asked.

“No, he’s not here yet,” Myles replied with a sigh. “Roberts is, though, and he keeps looking at me with this odd expression on his face. It’s almost like he knows what I’m about to do.”

Leslie sank into a nearby kitchen chair, her eyes wide. “How could he possibly know?” she asked.

“I guess he doesn’t,” Myles said, and Leslie could picture him running his fingers through his disheveled hair. “I think I’m just a little on edge.”

You’re not the only one.

“Did you get any sleep last night?” he asked.

“Uh…some,” she sidestepped. “How about you?”

“Not much,” he replied. “I had too much on my mind. Look, could I come over tonight? I’d like to talk over some things with you.”

Leslie hesitated, wondering what he meant by “things”. After a moment, she finally agreed. “Sure. Just let me know what time.”

“I will. Les…” Myles paused, and Leslie could hear the sudden squeak of his chair. “He just got here,” he whispered. “I’ll let you know something as soon as I can.”

The call ended, and Leslie put her phone on the table with a sigh. Who knew when Myles would get the chance to have a serious conversation with the sheriff, and she wasn’t sure if her nerves could hold out all day long.

Sergeant pawed at Leslie’s leg then, and she realized she hadn’t fixed his breakfast yet. Patting him on the head, she stood up and stretched her stiff, achy muscles. I need to sleep in a real bed tonight, she thought as she walked toward the refrigerator.

The rest of the day went by agonizingly slow. Leslie went to work for a few hours but found that she couldn’t concentrate and kept having to redo most of her paperwork. Finally, she gave up and went outside to help with the training. Working with the dogs helped to distract her a little, but she found herself almost continually checking her phone. Why hadn’t Myles texted or called with an update? Had he not been able to talk to the sheriff yet?

“You look really tired today, Leslie,” one of the head trainers told her.

With a laugh, Leslie said, “Yeah, it was a long weekend.”

“Why don’t you go home early and get some rest? I’ll lock up at closing time.”

Checking her watch, Leslie saw that it was a little past two o’clock, and she hadn’t eaten since breakfast. Sighing, she nodded and said, “Okay, thanks a bunch. See you tomorrow.”

On the way home, Leslie drove into town and grabbed a to-go sandwich from the local diner. As she headed back to her house, she took a detour past the police station to see that Myles’ squad car was still there. She considered texting him, but decided against it. He would let her know something when he could.

The day continued to pass, and all Leslie could do was pace around her house. Finally, at a little after four o’clock, she decided to go for a hike. Sergeant was taking a nap on the sofa, so Leslie left him there sleeping while she put on her tennis shoes and slipped out the back door. The air was cold and there wasn’t much sun left, but she didn’t plan to be gone long. She just needed to run off some of this nervous energy.

The trails behind her house were partially why she’d wanted to live here in the first place. The property had once been part of a large Boy Scout camping ground, and a few of the trails led to some breathtaking views. As Leslie headed down one of her favorites that took her right by a bubbling brook, she looked for all the familiar markers along the way. She thought about all the times she and her dad had walked these very trails when he’d come to visit, and she teared up a bit. She missed him so much. What she wouldn’t give to have a few moments with him now; she needed his advice so desperately.

The trickling sound of the brook was usually soothing and relaxing, but Leslie couldn’t seem to shake the feeling of heaviness that had weighed on her all day. After walking briskly for a few moments, she broke into a run, but the pounding of her feet only enhanced the pounding in her head. With a sigh, she slowed her pace and stopped to sit on a nearby boulder.

The sun was beginning to set, casting shadows all around the forest. Birds that normally chirped loudly from the treetops were now silent, and when Leslie looked about for squirrels or rabbits, she saw none. It seemed that she was all alone out here. When the sound of a wolf howling echoed in the distance, Leslie fought off a shiver. Perhaps it was time to head back.

She climbed off the rock and started back down the darkening trail. The wind was starting to pick up, and as she zipped her hoodie all the way to her chin, she glanced up at the sky. There wasn’t any call for rain or snow tonight, but there was an odd sense of foreboding in the air that set Leslie’s teeth on edge. Suddenly, she wished she hadn’t come into the woods by herself. She’d always loved it out here before. Today, however, something was different.

Just then, the sound of footsteps crunching over the leaves echoed through the forest. Glancing up, Leslie peered ahead to see the large silhouette of a man walking her way. At first, she thought it was Myles, and she breathed a sigh of relief as she picked up her pace. The closer she drew, however, the more suspicious she felt at the way he had his hood pulled over his head and how he kept his face tucked. There was also something about his gait that was off; Myles didn’t swing his shoulders quite so much when he walked.

Suddenly, he raised his head, and Leslie’s eyes widened. It was Chad Roberts. What was he doing out here? Their gazes locked, and in a flash, Chad pulled a gun from beneath his hoodie. With a gasp, Leslie spun on her heel and raced back down the trail away from him. The gun fired, and Leslie screamed when the bullet hit a tree limb right next to her head.

Swiveling off the trail, Leslie dove into the thick trees and pushed her way through the forest, hoping the woods would help keep her hidden. She could hear Chad pursuing her, and she wondered if there was any way she could possibly outrun him. She knew the woods around here better than he did, which was to her advantage. If she could only run fast enough to make it back to her house, she could get the gun she kept hidden in her kitchen. Oh, why hadn’t she brought it with her?

Limbs and branches slapped at Leslie’s face as she continued to run. Why was Chad after her? If Myles told Chad's father what they’d found, why hadn’t Chad tried to run instead? Why would he risk coming out here to try to kill her?

“You can’t run forever, Leslie,” Chad’s voice rang out. “I’m a hunter, remember? I’ll run you until you drop.”

Her lungs were screaming for air, but Leslie pushed herself to go faster. Everything was whirling by in a blur of trees, bushes, greens, and browns. Was she almost at the house? Was she even going in the right direction? Through the haze of panic, she feared she might have made a wrong turn.

A large tree stood in her path, and when Leslie’s foot caught on a protruding root, she slammed forward into the solid wooden trunk with a gasp. She stood there for a moment, panting as she tried to regain her senses. Suddenly, a large hand snaked around the tree and latched onto her arm. With a scream, Leslie tried to jerk away, but it was no use. Chad had finally caught her.

CHAPTER 31

Zaylie

It was late Monday afternoon, and Zaylie had just gotten off the phone with Myles Bardot. He’d seemed a bit distracted but had promised to give her offer of working at the new training center some thought. When she tried to call Leslie, the call went straight to voicemail.

“Hey, Leslie, it’s Zaylie,” she said on the voicemail. “Give me a call when you can, please. I need to talk to you about something.”

She ended the call and headed down to the coffee shop. It wasn’t easy driving with her arm in a sling, but the coffee shop wasn’t far from the house and she needed a break from all the paperwork she’d been buried in. When she walked inside, she was surprised to see Gerald Glover waiting in line.

“Hello, Zaylie,” he greeted her.

“Hi, Mr. Gerald,” Zaylie replied with a pleasant smile as she stepped up behind him. “How are you?”

“I’m taking it one day at a time,” he replied with a sigh. “Planning my wife’s funeral isn’t something I thought I’d be doing in my fifties.”

Zaylie gently patted the older man’s arm. “I’m sorry,” she said. “I’m sure this has been very hard for you.”

Mr. Gerald nodded. “Not knowing if her killer will be brought to justice is hard, too,” he said in a heavy tone.

“There are still no leads?” she asked as they slowly moved up in line.

“Apparently not,” he replied with a solemn shake of his head. “I’ve been busy at the antique store today, so I haven’t had a chance to call Bill and ask if there are any updates.”

“Are you going to keep the store?” Zaylie asked.

“No, I’m going to sell it,” he replied. “As hard as it is to sell something Mary loved so much, I’m not schooled enough in the world of antiques to run such a business.”

“That’s understandable,” Zaylie said. She wanted to ask exactly what he planned to do with himself but didn’t think the question was appropriate for someone she didn’t know very well.

While Mr. Gerald placed his order, Zaylie glanced around the coffee shop. She spotted the owner, Joan Richards, and waved to the woman who had been friends with her sister before she died. Over the past few months, Zaylie and Joan had become good friends, as well.

After Zaylie placed her order, she joined Mr. Gerald again at the pickup counter.

“How is your shoulder?” he asked her.

“Pretty sore,” she replied. “But it could have been much worse.”

“Yes, I heard what happened,” he stated, his eyes wide. “You could have been killed. I told Danette she needs to leave town for a little while, but she won’t hear of it.”

Seizing the opportunity to mention Mrs. Danette’s boyfriend, Zaylie said, “Yes, she told me that Mr. Harrison wanted them to stay on his yacht with him.”

Mr. Gerald raised an eyebrow and stated, “I don’t know what he thinks he could do to protect her.”

“I’m afraid I don’t know much about him,” Zaylie replied. “Mrs. Danette said he made his fortune in New York and has been sailing up and down the coast on his yacht the last few years.”

“That’s what I heard, too, but the man is much too slick to answer any pointed questions,” Mr. Gerald replied. “He’s always been a bit of a snob, but he’s different than he used to be. He’s more closed off and secretive if you ask me.”

Mr. Gerald’s name was called just then, and he said his goodbyes to Zaylie. She wished him well with everything, and as she watched him leave, she thought about their conversation about Harrison. Why was he being so secretive? Was he hiding something? Or perhaps he was just the private type.

After picking up her coffee drink, Zaylie went for a walk along the waterfront. The air was cool but not cold, and the fresh air felt good against her cheeks. As she sipped the delicious hot caramel macchiato, she found herself at the wharf. Several boats lined the dock, and when Zaylie spotted the Bella Donna, she couldn’t help but step closer Although she’d seen much larger vessels before, Harrison’s yacht was still quite impressive. When she peered around the side, she was surprised to see how easy it would be to simply hop right over the gunnels.

Don’t even think about it, she told herself. She could be arrested or hurt if she was caught trespassing. The voice of caution in her mind went unnoticed, however, as she glanced around to see if anyone was watching. The wharf was empty; no one was around.

Walking casually over to the starboard side, Zaylie hopped onto the yacht without even needing to use her left arm. She hoped it would be just as easy to climb off once she was finished snooping.

I can’t believe I’m doing this, she thought as she pushed open a sliding glass door and tiptoed inside. Harrison had said his boat was broken into, so what if the culprit came back while she was nosing around? Or worse, what if he caught her and accused her of being the culprit?

“If you ask me, there’s something strange about that man.”

Mr. Gerald’s words floated through her mind once again, propelling her forward on her mission. She would be quick, but she needed to know if Harrison Taylor was hiding something.

The yacht was kept in pristine condition, and the interior was exactly how Zaylie would have expected. The living room was decorated in white and navy blue, a bar rested in the corner next to a massive TV and stereo system, and abstract pieces of art hung from the walls. As Zaylie carefully made her way through the vessel, she knew she would have to be careful or her presence here would easily be noticed.

When Zaylie climbed down below to the bedroom, she immediately smelled perfume. Not just any perfume, however; it was a scent she immediately recognized because she’d smelled it the night before. Ernie’s girlfriend, Stacey, had been wearing it.

Making certain to proceed very quietly, Zaylie eased further into the dark room, hoping no one else was on board. Once her eyes had adjusted, she could see that the room was empty. Flipping on a nearby lamp, Zaylie began carefully searching the cabin. It didn’t take long to see that a female had been on board; make-up was in the bathroom cabinet, a small purse rested on the vanity, and a pair of women’s flip-flops were in the closet. Zaylie noticed a few other things as well, but it wasn’t until she found a small bag under the bed that she really became confused.

Inside the bag were several different passports, driver’s licenses, and credit cards. On each identification card was Harrison’s photo, but all the names were different. There was also a good bit of money stashed inside of the bag. What was going on with this man? And what was he really doing on Whisper Island?

Just then, a bumping and shuffling sound came from upstairs, and then the sound of voices could be heard. Her heart catching, Zaylie quickly took a couple of pictures and then shoved the bag back under the bed. She hurried over to the lamp and turned it off just as the sound of footsteps echoed below from the upper deck. Someone was coming on board, and they weren’t alone.

CHAPTER 32

Leslie

I told you there was no need to run.”

Chad’s breath was hot against Leslie’s cheek as he leered down at her. His grip on her arm felt like it could break the bone, and Leslie’s heart was racing so out of control that she was afraid she was going to hyperventilate.

“Wh-what do you want?” she gasped.

“I know what you and Myles have been up to,” he snapped. “I overheard him talking to my father. Did you think you could get away with trying to ruin me? I’ll have my revenge first, just wait and see. Myles is going to regret gunning for me.”

“Look, Chad, why don’t you run while you can?” Leslie asked as her mind raced wildly in search of a way to get out of this. “These trails will lead you all the way through the mountains. If you leave now, they probably won’t ever find you.”

“Oh, I’ll leave, but first I want you to pay for what your family has done to me,” he hissed, his eyes filling with hate. “As if your stupid father wasn’t enough, your ex-husband had to go following in his footsteps.”

Leslie’s brow furrowed. “What are you talking about?” she wanted to know, her blood running cold.

Chad’s demeanor turned into a deadly calm as a sneer slid over his face. “I suppose you should know the truth now that you’re about to die,” he stated with a chuckle. “Remember that case your dad was working on? It ended up being much larger than he’d anticipated, which is why he was killed. He should have listened to the warnings and left well enough alone.”

Leslie couldn’t believe her ears. She stared at Chad, completely dumbfounded.

“You…you were involved in his death?” she asked in a strangled whisper. “But how? He was in Knoxville!”

“I’m part of something much bigger than you and your hubby think,” he replied. “And now that you’ve both stepped on my toes, I’m going to have to kill you personally. I may not have gotten the chance to kill Myles, but this should have the same effect.”

Chad slowly raised the gun and pointed it at Leslie’s head. She reared back and screamed, jerking her arm with all her might. She might be small, but training with large dogs for years had made her stronger than most people realized. Her arm slipped from Chad’s grasp just before the gun fired. Leslie fell backward, her head striking the ground with a sharp thud. Stars floated before her eyes, and although her mind screamed at her to run, she was unable to move.

Leslie lay there, frozen in place as the world swam madly around her. Through the blur, she could see Chad’s face leering down at her. He raised the gun once again, and she knew there was no escaping this time. She opened her mouth to beg for mercy, but couldn’t force any words past her swollen throat. Tears burned the back of her eyes, and she curled herself up into a ball.

Please, God, I don’t want to die.

Flashes of her parents raced through her mind; she could see their faces as they smiled at her. Myles was there, too; she could still see the look of love in his eyes when she’d walked down the aisle on their wedding day. How had life taken such a drastic turn? She was about to die, and there were so many things left to do.

A shot rang out, and Leslie braced herself for the pain. When she felt nothing, she looked up and watched in shock as Chad staggered and swayed to the left. His eyes were wide with shock as the life slowly drained from their depths, and within seconds, he slumped to the ground in a lifeless heap. When Leslie turned to look at him, his eyes were still open and blood oozed from a wound in his neck.

Leslie stared at the dead man as shockwaves coursed through her body. What had happened? She shook her head, feeling dazed and confused as she slowly pulled herself into a sitting position. Just then, the sound of rushing footsteps suddenly broke through the screaming fog in her mind, and she glanced wildly around for something to use as a weapon. Her eyes landed on Chad’s gun, and as she reached out a trembling hand, a familiar pair of boots rounded the corner of the tree.

“Les! Are you alright?”

Myles kneeled beside her and touched her face. Leslie looked at him blankly for a moment, and then she started to shake as sobs wracked her body. Myles pulled her into his arms and held her tightly against his chest. With tears streaming down her cheeks, Leslie clung to him like a lifeline as he rocked her back and forth on the forest floor. Never in a million years did Leslie think something like this could happen in a place like Crescent Moon. As Myles scooped her up and carried her away from the dead body of Chad Roberts, however, Leslie realized with a sick feeling in her stomach that people and places aren’t always what they seem.

----------

After carrying Leslie back to her house, Myles immediately called the sheriff to tell him what had happened. Having to explain something like that to a father wasn’t easy, but after listening to his voice on the other end of the line, Leslie could tell the sheriff had suspected his son was a bad seed for a while. He’d even seemed prepared for the news in some way.

“They’ll be here shortly,” Myles said after ending the call. Looking at Leslie with concern in his eyes, he asked, “Are you okay? Did he hurt you?” 

Leslie shook her head. “I’m okay,” she replied softly. “He twisted my arm a bit and I hit my head when I fell, but I’m okay. I’m much better than I could have been if you hadn’t come along.”

Standing, Myles leaned around Leslie to inspect her head. “You’ve got a lump back here,” he stated, his breath whispering along her neck. “I don’t see any blood, though.”

He walked into the kitchen and returned moments later with an ice pack. Thanking him, Leslie pressed it gently against the back of her head.

“What was the sheriff’s reaction when you talked to him this afternoon?” she wanted to know.

Myles ran his fingers through his hair and sighed. “He was hurt, but not overly surprised,” Myles replied. “Apparently, he’d suspected Chad’s involvement in some shady dealings lately. When I showed him the pictures of the drug lab, he said he would send some men up there immediately.”

“Chad said he overheard your conversation,” Leslie said, “but he seemed to already have an idea of what we were up to. I think he broke into my house over the weekend.”

Myles’ eyes widened. “What? Why didn’t you tell me?”

Leslie shrugged. “Because I couldn’t be sure. I believe that’s why he stopped by the training center the other day and questioned me. He suspected you were onto him.”

Reaching out to take her hand, Myles said, “I’m glad it’s over now. If anything had happened to you, I never could have forgiven myself.”

His gaze was so warm that Leslie suddenly found it very hard to breathe. He ran his thumb along the palm of her hand, sending chills up her arm.

“Thank you, Myles, for saving my life,” she said softly.

“You’re welcome,” he replied with a small smile.

When his gaze lowered to her lips, Leslie’s heart kicked into overdrive. The sound of approaching sirens interrupted the moment, however, and she quickly pulled back.

“I’m not sure that it really is over,” she told him. At the look of question in his eyes, she explained what Chad had said to her in the woods.

“That doesn’t make any sense,” Myles said once she was finished. “How could he have had anything to do with your father’s death?”

Leslie shook her head. “I don’t know,” she replied, “but I intend to find out.”

The police knocked on her front door then, interrupting their conversation. As Myles hurried through the house to let them in, Leslie put the ice pack away and went to join them. She still couldn’t believe there was a dead man on her property; a man she’d known for years, who had tried to kill her. How had life gotten so turned upside down in the last year? And what did life hold for her in the future?

CHAPTER 33

Zaylie

The voices were drawing closer, and Zaylie glanced around the yacht’s cabin in panic. Just when the door leading below opened and light filtered down the stairs, Zaylie dove into the tiny bedroom closet.

“This is taking too long.”

The voice belonged to Harrison, and Zaylie pushed herself behind a row of suits and a long trench coat, hoping they wouldn’t hear the hangers rattling.

“We didn’t expect it to be easy,” a woman’s voice replied. Zaylie had never spoken to Stacey before, but she’d heard her speaking to Ernie the night before and was certain the voice belonged to her.

“None of our jobs have ever been this difficult, though,” Harrison stated.

“Calm down,” Stacey said with a chuckle. “We’re making progress. You’ve just got to be more patient.”

“I need the money, though,” he hissed. “My gambling debts have gotten me in a bind this time.”

“I’m sure he’ll give me the money any day now,” Stacey said in a calm voice.

“He’s running scared of his cousin and you know it,” Harrison snapped. “You’re going to have to put more pressure on him.”

“Well, you certainly haven’t made any progress,” she retorted. “You and the rich widow were supposed to be engaged by now.”

“I hadn’t counted on the Lockwood situation,” he replied with a sigh. “It’s got her on edge. I’m having an issue getting her to focus on me at all.”

“Well, I think Ernie will come through with the money any day now,” Stacey said confidently. With a chuckle, she added, “If he got angry enough to push her down the stairs, I’d say he’s about ready to break ties with his darling cousin.”

Zaylie’s eyes widened in shock. Ernie pushed Mrs. Danette down the stairs? Why hadn’t she told the police? Instead, she’d lied and said she fell by accident.

“If he goes too far, though, his darling cousin might not let him have any of her money,” Harrison stated.

Zaylie could hear Stacey rattling around in the bathroom, and it sounded as if Harrison was pacing back and forth in the bedroom. What was she going to do if they discovered her? By the way they were talking, they would most likely kill her, and there would be nothing she could do about it.

“He has some money left to him by their grandfather,” Stacey replied. “Or I could always try talking him into pushing her down the stairs again. Then he could do what he wanted with the money since he’s her executor.”

Zaylie couldn’t believe her ears. These two were talking about murder! Just then, her cell phone began vibrating in her pocket, and she scrambled to turn it off. She heard Harrison’s footsteps pause on the other side of the closet door, and the voices suddenly became hushed. Her heart pounding, Zaylie hit “ignore” and quickly turned her phone on silent. She’d just shoved it back into her pocket when the closet door opened.

“Did you hear something?”

His voice was right next to her; Zaylie could see the toes of his expensive shoes only inches from where she stood. Holding her breath, she pressed her back against the closet wall, hoping he wouldn’t slide the suit coats and pants to the side. Her feet were hidden in the shadow of the trench coat, but if he moved anything around, he would surely spot her.

“No, I didn’t hear anything,” Stacey said. “Come help me with this necklace, will you? I can’t get it to clasp.”

Harrison hesitated, and Zaylie could almost feel his eyes piercing through the clothes where she hid. She held her breath, hoping and praying he would leave. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, he flipped off the closet light and shut the door. Zaylie released the breath she’d been holding and reached up to rub her throbbing head. If only she could get out of here, she’d never do anything so crazy again.

The two continued to talk, but their voices were muted. After a while, they re-entered the bedroom and Stacey said something about getting on with their plans for the night. They went back upstairs, and moments later, all was quiet. Zaylie waited a bit longer, just in case they weren’t really gone, and then eased quietly from her hiding place.

As Zaylie quickly made her way back upstairs, her heart pounded and she trembled all over. She’d placed herself in a very dangerous situation, but if she hadn’t, Stacey and Harrison most likely would have gotten away with stealing money from Ernie and possibly killing Mrs. Danette. She had to get off this boat and see Bill.

The sun had set, and all was quiet and dark as Zaylie made her way through the living room and back out the sliding glass door. The sound of water lapping against the side of the yacht was all she could hear as Zaylie hopped over the gunnels and onto the dock. She stumbled and almost fell, but managed to catch herself. As she hurried along the side of the boat, the evening lights on the dock suddenly clicked on and she gasped in surprise. She could hear the distant sound of voices down the dock, and she knew if she didn’t hurry, she’d be seen.

Peering around the front of the Bella Donna, all Zaylie could see were the shadows and silhouettes of other crafts. With the movement created by the water beneath the dock, it looked as if the boats and their shadows were alive and breathing. Was anyone out on any of the boat decks that would see her? If so, they would most likely call the police, which would in turn alert Harrison and Stacey.

At the thought of the dangerous couple, Zaylie took a deep breath and hurried away from the Bella Donna. The two could come back at any time, and the last thing she needed was to try to explain her presence on the docks. The thought that she’d only been inches from being discovered inside that closet sent chills down her spine.

When Zaylie finally made it back to her car, she locked the doors and leaned her head against the steering wheel. After taking a few deep breaths, she cranked the car and headed toward the police station. The last thing she wanted to admit to Bill was the fact that she’d broken into a private yacht, but he had to know what she’d discovered.

When she arrived at the station, Bill wasn’t there. The officer at the front desk said someone thought they’d spotted Basil Lockwood near their property, and Bill had gone to investigate. With a sigh, she asked the officer to let Bill know she needed to speak with him and left.

Zaylie had just gotten back into her car when she remembered her phone was on silent. Pulling it from her pocket, her eyes widened in surprise when she saw a notification of an email flashing across the screen.

The email was from Mary Glover.

Zaylie clicked on the email and stared at the contents in confusion. The message had obviously been typed in a hurry, and most of it didn’t make sense.

I’ve accidentally stumbled upon the truth, and I need to talk to you. When you get this, please come to the store. In case something happens to me, I’m hiding what I found under the lid of my harpsichord, along with a note of explanation.

How had such an email been sent to her? Mrs. Mary was dead. Was this odd message something she’d scheduled to send to Zaylie? Scrolling up, she suddenly realized there was another email address listed next to hers, one she didn’t recognize. Apparently, Mrs. Mary hadn’t intended to include Zaylie in this email. Who was the other recipient, though?

Unable to contain her curiosity, Zaylie drove out to the antique store. The night was dark, and the golden “Antiques” sign on the front of the store cast an almost eerie glow on the old brick building. A light was on inside, but Zaylie wasn’t certain if anyone was there or if the light always stayed on. She didn’t see any other vehicles around, so she slowly climbed from her car and approached the store.

There it was. Just on the other side of the window stood the old harpsichord. Whatever Mrs. Mary had found was inside. Is that what got her killed? Had she stumbled upon something sinister?

Zaylie was so focused on her thoughts that she didn’t hear the footsteps moving up behind her. Before she realized what was happening, a large, gloved hand sneaked around from behind her head and clamped down tightly over her mouth.

CHAPTER 34

A surge of panic shot through Zaylie’s body as she was dragged roughly around to the back of the store. She fought as hard as she could, but with her injured shoulder, there wasn’t much she could do. The back door was cracked open, and when Zaylie was shoved inside, she spun around to face her attacker. The blood left her face when she realized it was none other than Basil Lockwood.

“You again,” she whispered as she slowly backed away.

The large man quickly shut the back door and turned to face her. His beady black eyes swept over her from head to toe, and Zaylie noticed for the first time that a nasty scar ran along his cheek. He was slender but muscular, and after watching him with Ryker, she knew there was no way she could fight him or even outrun him. She’d have to figure out some way to outwit him.

“You’re the other person Mary sent the email to?” he asked.

His voice was deep and gravelly, and the way his gaze bore into hers made Zaylie’s skin crawl.

“Yes,” she replied, trying her best to remain calm. “Why…why did she send it to us both?”

“Since our last names both begin with L, it must have been an accident,” he stated. “It worked out perfectly, though. This way, you can retrieve what’s in the piano and I won’t have to worry about being seen through the front windows.”

Zaylie hesitated, her mind whirling. How did he know her last name?

“What do I get in return for helping you?” she asked.

With a smirk, he replied, “Your life.”

Zaylie swallowed. “But for how long?” she pressed. “How can I know you won’t kill me as soon as you’re finished with me?”

Basil’s jaw clenched, and he pulled a large knife from his back pocket. “I don’t have time to argue,” he growled. “Do it now and I promise not to harm your precious grandmother.”

When Zaylie’s eyes widened, he laughed. “Oh, I know all about the woman who’s been helping Bill search for me,” he said. “Your name is Zaylie Layne. You own a search-and-rescue training center, and you live at Azalea Bluff. Should I go on?”

“Why are you doing this?” she asked, fear gripping her heart. “Why did you break out of prison to come back here and kill Mrs. Mary? You could have escaped, but there’s no possibility of that now.”

The mirth slid away as she spoke, and Basil snapped in a dangerous tone, “I have my reasons for doing what I’ve done. Now hurry up before I change my mind about your grandmother.”

Taking a deep breath, Zaylie turned and walked toward the front of the store. She pushed the door open and peered into the main room, hoping to see the police swarming the outside of the building. Instead, all was quiet.

Just before she pushed the door open further, Basil grabbed her arm and said in a warning tone, “Don’t try any funny business or I’ll be forced to make good on my threat.”

Zaylie pulled her arm away and nodded. Squaring her shoulders, she stepped into the main room and allowed the door to swing shut behind her. As she walked toward the harpsichord at the front of the store, shadows seemed to randomly move and jump out at her. Henry VIII stared viciously at her from a painting on the wall, an old grandfather clock ticked monotonously from a faraway corner, and little porcelain figurines seemed to come alive from their various resting places. The name Whispers from the Past took on a whole new meaning as Zaylie’s shadow moved across the room, and she told herself to stay focused and keep calm.

Maybe, just maybe you’ll be able to find a way to get out of this, she told herself.

When she finally made it to the old harpsichord, she reached out a trembling hand and raised the lid on the back. Tucked inside were two pieces of paper, and Zaylie quickly removed them both. She unfolded the top paper and hastily scanned over what appeared to be a poem or love letter of some kind, but it didn’t make much sense. Zaylie had just opened the second paper when the bells on the front door suddenly jingled loudly. Jerking back against the old instrument with a gasp, Zaylie was shocked to see Gerald Glover entering the store.

Mr. Glover stumbled to a halt when he saw her, and his eyes widened in surprise.

“Zaylie, what on earth?” he asked. “You nearly gave me a heart attack. What are you doing in here?”

Her eyes moved toward the back of the store where she knew Basil Lockwood was hiding, and her mind raced. If she didn’t handle this in the right way, they would both die. Turning back to face Mr. Gerald, she cleared her throat and chuckled sheepishly.

“The, uh, back door to the store was open, so I let myself in,” she told him. “Mrs. Mary was supposed to sell a couple of pieces for me, you know. Would it be okay if I took them back home?”

His brow furrowing in confusion, Mr. Gerald walked toward her. “You broke into the store to take back your furniture?” he asked in disbelief. “Zaylie, you could have just asked me for them.”

The back door opened just a crack, and Zaylie’s heart dropped. Edging her way around Mr. Gerald, she said, “Well, I didn’t want to bother you. I’ll come back tomorrow, though, if that’s okay?”

With a shrug, Mr. Gerald nodded his head but then hesitated when he noticed the papers she held in her hand. “What have you got there?” he wanted to know.

Zaylie’s stomach sank. There was no avoiding this now. Holding the papers up with trembling hands, Zaylie said in a choked voice, “Mr. Gerald, I’m sorry. These were hidden in the harpsichord and I…”

Zaylie’s voice trailed away when her eyes landed on the top page. It was the note of explanation Mrs. Mary had written, and what it said made the color drain from Zaylie’s face.

Rand Herbert was in possession of this poem the night he was killed. The poem was written by Gerald Glover, and I just found it in his old chest of drawers.

Basil Lockwood didn’t kill Rand Herbert. My husband did.

-Mary Glover

CHAPTER 35

Zaylie stared at the note in confusion, not entirely comprehending what it meant. In one swift move, Mr. Gerald took the paper from Zaylie and quickly read it. When his eyes raised back up to meet hers a moment later, they were filled with something so chilling that it made Zaylie’s blood curdle.

“Surely, you don’t believe this nonsense.”

He was attempting to keep his tone light and nonchalant as he folded the note and tucked it into his shirt pocket. His gaze was piercing and guarded as he watched her, and Zaylie’s mind raced with questions.

“Of course not,” she replied with a nervous laugh. “Obviously, Mrs. Mary was confused when she wrote that. I mean…why would you have killed Mrs. Danette’s brother?”

“Exactly,” he stated evenly. “Everyone knows Basil killed Rand.”

Mr. Gerald’s eyes dropped to the poem Zaylie still clutched in one hand, and he reached out to take it. After glancing over the words that Zaylie now realized he himself had written years ago, he wadded it up into a ball and tossed it into a nearby wastebasket.

“I think we should forget about this, don’t you?” he asked, watching her closely. “No one has to know of my wife’s crazy ideas before she died.”

Zaylie slowly backed away from him. “Yes, I’m sure there’s a reasonable explanation for all of this.”

Mr. Gerald laughed. “Who am I kidding? I know you’re not going to let this go,” he said with a shake of his head. “And although it doesn’t matter since you have no proof, I should probably still cover my tracks.”

“I have the email Mrs. Mary sent me,” Zaylie blurted.

“What email?” he wanted to know, his eyes narrowing.

“The one that brought me here tonight,” she replied. “The one that led me to look inside the harpsichord.”

His expression hardening, Mr. Gerald snapped, “Show it to me.”

Zaylie shook her head. “I left my cell phone in my car,” she said, raising her chin.

With a surprising amount of swiftness, Mr. Gerald pulled a gun from beneath his shirt and pointed it at Zaylie’s head. “I’m through playing games, Miss Layne,” he said in a deadly tone. “Now walk over to Mary’s computer and pull up the email.”

As Zaylie made her way toward the front desk, she wondered if Basil was still in the back room or if he’d left. Was she all on her own? Her only hope was that he was still back there, but what guarantee did she have that he would help her? He was still an escaped prisoner, and her life meant nothing to him. Perhaps if she could get Gerald talking, she could keep him distracted long enough for someone to drive by and see that she needed help.

Stopping at the front counter, she took a deep breath and turned to face Mr. Gerald. “Why did you kill Rand?” she asked. “And how did Mrs. Mary find out?”

Raising the gun once again to point into her face, Mr. Gerald said, “Shut up and go to the computer.”

“After you tell me what happened,” she persisted, her heart pounding. She was playing a dangerous game, one that would take her life if she lost. “I’ll show you the email and also delete it, but first I deserve to know what happened.”

“You’re not in a position to make demands,” he sneered as he slowly pulled back the hammer.

Zaylie swallowed. “Neither are you,” she replied, surprised at how steady her voice sounded. “Several people know the password to my email account, so if you kill me now, you’ll still be incriminated.”

The email itself held no evidence, nor did it point any fingers toward Gerald. He didn’t know that, though, and Zaylie thought that if she bluffed him long enough, she may be able to buy herself some more time.

His jaw clenching, Mr. Gerald slowly lowered the gun and said in a low growl, “Fine. Like the note said, I wrote that poem for Mary when she was still dating Lockwood. I’d given it to Rand and asked him to deliver it to Mary when he saw her next.”

“And?” Zaylie pressed.

“The next time she saw him was right before he died,” he replied. “She went over to talk to him about Basil; she wanted him to back off. I was there, but she didn’t know it. When Rand gave her the poem and tried to convince her to date me instead, she refused. She threw the poem back in his face and said she wasn’t interested in me.”

Gerald started laughing then, and the hair on the back of Zaylie’s neck tingled. He wasn’t looking at her anymore; his gaze was glazed over and fixed on something just beyond her shoulder as he remembered the details of that night so long ago.

“Little did she know she would marry me someday,” he stated with a sneer.

“Why kill Rand, though?” Zaylie wanted to know.

Gerald’s gaze jerked back to Zaylie’s face as if he’d forgotten she was there. “After she left that night,” he continued, “Rand and I got into an argument. He told me there was no use in trying to break her and Basil up, and I lost my temper. I pushed him, and when he fell, he hit his head. I…I didn’t mean to kill him, but as I stood there staring down at him, an idea began to form in my mind. Basil had threatened to kill him the day before, so I knew it would be easy to frame him. And with him out of the way, I’d have a better chance with Mary. My father was starting to lose money, you see, and I needed to marry into a wealthy family.”

“And Mrs. Mary?”

Zaylie voiced the question but wasn’t certain she was ready for the answer. Knowing Mr. Gerald had killed a man she’d never met over thirty years ago was one thing, but the thought that he’d also murdered his wife was another.

“We were having problems,” he said with a disgusted sigh. “She was constantly pressuring me to work while refusing to give me any of her money. When I realized she’d brought my old chest of drawers to the store to sell, I panicked. By the time I got here, though, she’d already found the poem and figured out I was the last one to see Rand. I should have thrown that poem out years ago, but when I got home the night Rand died, I wasn’t thinking and just stuffed it under the paper lining in my top drawer.”

“How could you kill your own wife?” Zaylie asked in a strangled voice.

Mr. Gerald’s face hardened. “Basil was back,” he replied simply with a shrug. “I figured I’d just blame him again. He’s the one she always wanted anyway, and I’ve always hated her for it.”

“You’re insane,” she whispered, her eyes filling with tears.

His lower lip curling, Gerald raised the gun and stated, “Maybe I am. Now, show me the email.”

Just then, the back door to the store opened, and Basil Lockwood stepped out. Mr. Gerald swung around to face him, and the blood drained from his face when he saw who it was. The two men stared at each other for a moment, and the tension in the air was palpable.

The look of surprise melted away into a smirk as Gerald said calmly, “Hello, Basil. I’m glad you’re here.” Once again pulling the hammer back on the gun, he added, “Now I can finally kill you.”

Quick as a flash, Basil dove to the side just as the gun fired. With a scream, Zaylie dropped to the floor behind the counter and covered her head. The room was filled with an eerie silence then, like the inside of a tomb. Zaylie waited, her heart pounding, and wondered if Basil was dead. If so, she was about to take her last breath as well.

CHAPTER 36

Come now, Basil, you can’t hide forever.”

The sound of Mr. Gerald’s maniacal laughter radiating throughout the otherwise silent room sent chills down Zaylie’s spine. She pressed herself against the counter, her eyes searching the darkness for a weapon. On the desk next to the computer was a pair of scissors, and taking a deep breath, Zaylie edged her way across the floor toward them.

Just then, a loud crash reverberated throughout the room. Zaylie dove for the scissors, her trembling hand clutching the handle as she held up her weapon and spun around. The lighting in the room was very dim, but through the shadows, Zaylie could see that Basil had knocked over a hall tree as a way of distraction. Gerald swung in that direction and fired the gun once again, but Basil was too quick for him. The much larger man swiftly leaped behind a sofa and disappeared into the shadows.

Zaylie watched as Gerald stalked slowly around the sofa like a lion seeking its prey. She glanced at the scissors that were still clutched in her hand and wondered if she should help, but what could she do against a gun? Her eyes flew to the front door, and she mentally judged the distance from where she stood. If she tried to run for help, she couldn’t make it all the way to the door without Gerald shooting at her.

Pointing his weapon in front of him, Gerald jumped to the back of the sofa and aimed the gun. Zaylie watched, frozen in place, as she waited for him to shoot again. Her eyes moved to the front door again, and she told herself this was her only chance. She pushed away from the desk, but when the gun didn’t fire, she hesitated and glanced back toward the men, uncertain of what to do. Gerald stood there, looking a bit confused as he searched for his opponent.

Suddenly, a shadow lunged over a nearby armchair and grabbed Gerald in a chokehold. With a gasp, he aimed the gun at Basil’s shoulder, firing once.

Zaylie covered her mouth as a scream slipped past her lips. Blood instantly spurted from the shoulder wound, and Basil released his hold with a moan. Gerald spun around, ready to shoot again, but Basil kicked the gun from his hand. The weapon skittered across the floor and landed beneath the armchair. With wild eyes, Gerald lunged toward the chair, but Basil was too quick for him. Zaylie didn’t know how he did it with such an injury, but he wrestled Gerald to the floor, his powerful legs wrapping firmly around the other man’s torso.

“Come get the gun,” he hissed over his shoulder at Zaylie, and she rushed across the room.

By the time she made it to the armchair, Gerald was unconscious and turning blue. She grabbed the gun and quickly moved away, turning back to say, “Don’t do it, Mr. Lockwood. It’s not worth it.”

“He deserves to die,” he gasped.

There was a crazed look in Basil’s eyes, and she knew he was out for blood. If he continued choking Gerald, the man would be dead in a matter of seconds.

“And even though it would be self-defense, do you really want to be the killer everyone has always thought you to be?”

Zaylie’s words seemed to pierce through the fog in Basil’s mind, and he released his hold on Gerald. The man fell to the floor, completely unconscious, but still alive. Basil shoved him away with a look of disgust on his face. He sat there in silence for a moment, taking a few deep breaths. When he finally looked up at Zaylie, his eyes were filled with grief.

“He killed Mary,” he said in a choked voice. “I never got the chance to talk to her before she died. I wanted…I wanted to tell her I’d come back to find the truth. I wanted her to know I was innocent.”

“She knew at the end,” Zaylie said softly. “Honestly, though, I think she always knew. From what I’ve heard, she really loved you.”

A lone tear slid down the toughened prisoner’s face, and he quickly wiped it away. Standing, he sighed heavily and said, “At least her killer will be brought to justice.”

The sound of sirens could be heard in the distance, and at the look of question on Zaylie’s face, he said, “I called Bill Harper while Gerald was talking. He heard everything.”

Zaylie breathed a sigh of relief. She’d been wondering how they were going to prove what Gerald had done. Tilting her head to the side, she asked curiously, “Why did you wait so long to break out of prison and come back here?”

“I recently found Mary’s email address on the store’s website,” he said, “and we emailed back and forth a few times. When she mentioned that Danette had moved back and I was suddenly faced with an opportunity to escape, I took it,” he replied. “I didn’t know who killed Rand, but with everyone back on the island, I hoped to smoke them out. I just wish Mary hadn’t been killed in the process.”

The sirens were drawing closer, and Zaylie could see the flashing of their lights as the police cars pulled into the parking lot. “It wasn’t your fault she was killed, Mr. Lockwood,” she told him. “She found the poem and realized the truth.”

Basil nodded and then smiled softly at Zaylie. “Thank you for your help tonight,” he said. “You and your dog have had me worried the last few weeks.”

Zaylie grinned. “She and I make a pretty good team,” she replied. With a raised eyebrow, she added dryly, “As do me and my precious grandmother.”

Basil’s face flushed, and he chuckled. “I never would have hurt either of you.”

Zaylie smiled. Just before the police came inside, she asked, “You weren’t really trying to harm me at the Herbert house either, were you?”

Basil shook his head. “No, I wasn’t,” he replied. “You caught me off guard, which is rare. I didn’t know you were still up there, but I certainly didn’t want you to fall down the stairs. I tried to grab you, but you jerked away from me.”

Zaylie sighed. “That just lets you know you should never judge a book by its cover.”

The bells over the door jingled as the police swarmed into the room, and Zaylie watched as Basil raised his hands and stepped away from her. She hurried over to Bill, whose gun was raised, but none of the weapons were pointed at the escaped prisoner. Instead, they were all directed at the antique store owner’s husband, the person no one had ever suspected.

That’s how it goes, Zaylie thought with a sigh as she leaned against Bill’s offered arm.. It’s always the husband.

CHAPTER 37

Leslie

It was Tuesday, two days after Chad Roberts had been killed on her property. She’d just talked to Zaylie and could hardly believe her friend had gone through something similar.

“We need a girl’s trip,” Leslie told her. “An extended one.”

“Tell me about it,” Zaylie agreed. “I’m glad you’re okay, Leslie. I’m glad we both are.”

It was still hard to believe everything that had happened the last few days. Leslie planned to reach out to her father’s old partner to find out more about the case he’d been investigating when he was killed, but she hadn’t done it yet. She was mentally drained after everything that had happened and needed some time to recover. She wanted justice for her father, but delving back into the past and a potentially dangerous situation wasn’t something she was certain she could handle right now.

After work, Leslie went home and took a hot shower. Myles was coming over “to talk”, and she tried to prepare herself for the impending conversation. She wasn’t totally sure what he was going to say, and she also wasn’t certain she was capable of having a serious conversation right now. She needed some time and space to think things through, but she also knew what was in her heart. Maybe it was best to go ahead and get it over with.

Myles arrived a little after six o’clock, and Leslie could tell he’d gone home and taken a shower, too. His typically disheveled hair was damp, and he smelled of cedar and aftershave.

“Come on in,” she said, leading him into the living room.

Myles took a seat on the sofa next to Leslie. “How are you?” he asked, his soft blue eyes searching hers.

“I’m okay,” she replied, tucking a stray brown curl behind one ear. “Just tired. I haven’t slept the greatest in the last several nights.”

“That’s understandable,” he replied. Glancing down at his hands, he blew out a long breath and said, “I’m just going to start at the beginning here. Zaylie offered me a job at the new training center.”

Leslie blinked, uncertain if she’d understood him correctly. By the look on his face, she knew she had, but why hadn’t Zaylie told her about this?

“What was your answer?” she wanted to know.

Myles glanced away and stared silently down at his clasped hands for a moment. Finally, he said, “I haven’t given her an answer yet. I wanted to talk to you first.”

“Why?” she asked, although she felt she already knew the answer.

Myles sighed and looked up at her, his eyes searching. “Because I want to know if there’s a reason for me to stay here,” he stated. “How you would feel about giving us another chance?”

The silence that hung between them after Myles’ question was so thick and heavy that Leslie felt like she couldn’t breathe. She’d assumed the conversation would go something like this, but she hadn’t expected Myles to give her an ultimatum. If she wanted him back, he was willing to stay and give it a shot. If not, he was leaving. The thought of him moving almost 400 miles away frightened her because she knew once he was gone, he’d be gone for good. Maybe that was for the best…but was that what she wanted?

Clearing her throat, Leslie said softly, “I…I don’t think I can give us another chance, Myles.”

Myles stared at her, and the hurt in his eyes forced Leslie to look away. When he moved closer and took her hand, she swallowed past the lump in her throat.

“I still love you, Leslie,” he said in a soft, husky tone. “I always will, and I can’t imagine my life without you. I know what I did was wrong, but if you’ll let me, I’ll spend the rest of my life making it up to you.”

The pressure in her chest was overwhelming. Leslie squeezed her eyes shut, trying to ignore the way his touch made her want to forget her good sense. She could feel his eyes boring into her, and his warm breath whispered softly across her neck and cheek. If she opened her eyes and looked at him, she’d give in. She knew she would. Her heart told her to give him another chance, but her mind screamed at her to run.

Shaking her head, Leslie stood up and moved away from him. She kept her back to him for a moment, and when she finally turned back to face him, her arms were wrapped protectively around her waist.

“I don’t think I can let myself trust you again,” she said. “I’ve never felt such a horrible sense of abandonment as I did when you left me. I know we were both hurting after the baby’s death and needed time to heal, but leaving should never be an option. Even if it’s just for a little while. I remember lying awake at night, wondering if I’d ever see you again. That’s not something a wife should ever wonder about, Myles. You hurt me terribly, and I just can’t put myself through that again. I can’t put my heart through it again.”

Her words trailed off as tears filled her eyes and trickled down her cheeks. Myles was crying, too, and when he stood up to walk slowly toward her, she put up a hand to stop him.

“I won’t do it again,” he whispered pleadingly. “I promise.”

Leslie stepped back and shook her head. “I can’t take that chance,” she replied in a choked voice. “I’m sorry.”

They stood there in the living room that had once belonged to them both, a place that used to be filled with laughter and love. Now it was filled with pain and silence, like a vast plain that stood between them, separating them. Myles stared at Leslie with a look of longing and regret, but Leslie didn’t back down. She couldn’t.

Finally, Myles let out a long breath and said, “I guess that’s that.”

Leslie nodded. “Goodbye, Myles. And good luck with your new job.”

“Can I have one last hug?” he asked.

She hesitated, wondering if it would be wise. After a moment, she nodded reluctantly, and he stepped forward to wrap her in a warm embrace. Leslie closed her eyes and listened to the beating of his heart, the pain in her own heart nearly suffocating her. There was once a time when she’d found safety and security in his arms. She’d felt like nothing in life could hurt her as long as he held her close. Never had she imagined she would find so much pain in that same embrace.

Pulling back, Leslie walked over to the front door and opened it for him. Myles sighed and grabbed his coat from the back of the sofa. He paused in the doorway, his gaze warm as he reached up to run a finger along her cheek, “Goodbye, Les.”

Leslie watched him leave, knowing this would most likely be the last time she saw him for a while. After his car had faded into the distance, she closed the door and went over to the sofa, where she sank into the cushions next to Sergeant and cried.

EPILOGUE

Zaylie

After his arrest, Gerald Glover confessed to killing Rand Herbert and Mrs. Mary, and Basil Lockwood was acquitted. The whole town was in shock; no one could believe the turn of events. Everyone was blindsided by the fact that Gerald had managed to fool them all for so many years. How could what seemed like a shy, quiet man on the outside be so evil and malicious on the inside? It was almost incomprehensible.

“What about his alibi?” Zaylie asked Bill a few days later. “Wasn’t he seen at the golf club in Savannah?”

“Yes, he was there,” Bill replied. “Several people saw him. Apparently, he snuck out, though, and no one noticed.”

“Did you check into Harrison Taylor and Stacey?” she wanted to know.

Bill sighed. “I certainly did,” he stated, giving her a look. “As much as I want to thank you for tipping me off on those two, I also want to give you a good spanking. Sneaking onto that yacht was entirely too dangerous, young lady, not to mention it was against the law.”

Zaylie bit her lip and said sheepishly, “The sliding glass door was unlocked.”

Rolling his eyes, Bill said, “Well, at least your dangerous little mission paid off. Those two have been traveling along the coast for the last few years, conning people out of their money. Remember when Harrison came into the station, claiming someone robbed his yacht?” When Zaylie nodded, he continued, “He did that himself to collect the insurance money. It seems he and his young girlfriend may have also been involved in a couple of suspicious deaths, and the police have been after them for quite some time. They were having trouble finding him, though, because he kept using fake identities. As much as I hate to say it, you did good, Zaylie.”

Zaylie smiled softly. “Poor Ernie and Mrs. Danette, though,” she said sympathetically. Eyeing Bill, she asked, “Did you, uh, do anything about what I overheard?”

“You mean about Ernie pushing Danette down the stairs?” Bill nodded.

Zaylie nodded.

“I talked to them both, and Ernie admitted to it,” he replied. “He said he wasn’t trying to hurt her; he was just angry. She said she wouldn’t be pressing charges, so I dropped it. She also admitted to being too controlling and pushy with him, and he told me later that he’s ready to move out and get his own place.”

“Wow.” Zaylie sighed. “I’m just glad it’s all over.”

With everything that had happened, Basil Lockwood decided to move away and start fresh somewhere else. Zaylie couldn’t say she blamed the man; Whisper Island had put him through enough grief. She only hoped he’d be able to finally find happiness somewhere else.

A week passed, and the grand opening for the new training center was almost upon them. It was late afternoon, and Zaylie was on the phone with Rita when Micah stopped by. Her best friend was busy planning the party, and Zaylie couldn’t help feeling excited about it all. After months of planning, it was finally coming together. She knew it would take some time to get the new center as well established as the one in Crescent Moon, but she had no doubt that she could do it, and she was looking forward to it.

“Hey, you,” she greeted her boyfriend as soon as she’d hung up with Rita. “What a nice surprise.”

Holding out a bouquet of red roses, Micah leaned over to kiss Zaylie on the cheek. “Hopefully, you don’t mind an unexpected visit.”

“From you?” Zaylie smiled, taking the flowers. “Never. These roses are gorgeous. What’s the occasion?”

As Micah followed Zaylie into the kitchen, he shrugged and said, “Oh, I’m just happy to have you in my life.”

Zaylie placed the flowers into a vase and then went over to wrap her arms around Micah’s neck. “I’m happy to have you in my life, too,” she murmured against his lips before kissing him deeply.

After a moment, Micah pulled back, and it was then that Zaylie noticed something wasn’t right. Micah wasn’t quite looking her in the eye, and he suddenly seemed almost distant with her. Feeling concerned, Zaylie put a hand on his arm and waited for him to look at her.

“Is something wrong?” she asked.

Micah gazed at her for a moment with a troubled look in his eyes. Zaylie waited, her stomach clenching with worry. What could be causing Micah to act this way? Had he decided he didn’t want to date her anymore? Flashbacks from their first break-up years ago floated through her mind, and Zaylie moved her hand away from his arm. Surely, he wasn’t doing that again. Why bring her flowers and say he liked having her in his life? To ease the pain of the blow?

Clearing his throat, Micah said, “Do you remember the other night at the restaurant when someone called me and I pretended it was nothing?”

Zaylie nodded, her heart sinking. He was doing it again; he was about to confess to cheating on her.

“Well, it wasn’t nothing,” he stated. With a sigh, he raised his eyes to meet hers and said, “The call was from an old college friend. He’s recently started one of the largest veterinary hospitals in the country, and he wants me to work with him.”

Zaylie blinked, unable to completely comprehend what he’d just said. He wasn’t cheating on her? Shaking her head, she asked, “He…what?”

“It’s the opportunity of a lifetime,” he said, his eyes lighting up with excitement. “They treat over 65,000 animals a year. Can you imagine? I’m lucky to treat forty animals a week on our little island!”

“Where is this hospital?” she asked.

Micah hesitated. “That…that’s the clencher. It’s in New York.”

Zaylie’s eyes widened. New York? He was thinking of moving to New York? But what about them? What about his family and practice here on the island? Dozens of questions flew through her mind, but she only voiced one.

“So…you’re going to take the job, I guess?”

Micah glanced down at his feet, but not before she saw the war in his eyes. Finally, he stepped forward and took both her hands in his. “I want to take it, Zaylie,” he said, his voice soft but filled with passion, “but I don’t want to leave you.”

“What then?” she wanted to know. “You can’t have us both.”

Micah’s gaze was intense as he said, “I can if you go with me. Zaylie Layne, will you marry me?"

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

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