Devil in Disguise

By

Robin Alexander

Devil in Disguise

© 2011 by Robin Alexander

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in printed or electronic form without permission. Please do not participate in or encourage piracy of copyrighted materials in violation of the author’s rights. Purchase only authorized editions.

ISBN 13: 978-1-935216-26-1

First Printing: 2011

This Trade Paperback Is Published By

Intaglio Publications

Walker, LA USA

www.intagliopub.com

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, businesses, companies, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

_______________________________________________

Credits

Executive Editor: Tara Young

Cover design by: Tiger Graphics

Dedication

For the sweetest of Roses.

Acknowledgment

My sweet love, Becky, who encourages me in everything I do.

Jules, who took her time to read this and give me excellent advice.

Tara, my editor who has the most amazing patience with me. If the roles were reversed, I’d already given her some iron skillet therapy.

Kate, my business partner, who assures me that I will re-emerge unscathed when I venture into the mind of the bad gal.

Prologue

“Thank you for calling Intellix Communications. This is Amanda, how may I help you today?”

“Hi, Amanda, I need to cancel my phone service.”

Amanda began the spiel she repeated what felt like a million times a day without reading from the prompt on her computer explaining how greatly Intellix valued its customers. And all the great advantages she would be missing out if she canceled her account.

“I have a cell phone, and I’m cutting back on expenses,” the woman said curtly.

“May I have your name, phone number of the service you want to disconnect, and the last four digits of your Social Security number for security purposes?” Amanda asked, though the information was already on her screen.

The response was a loud sigh punctuated by a tiny growl of frustration. The customer rattled off the information, then went into a rant that Amanda knew well. “I’ve already given this information to your automated service. Furthermore, it took me ten minutes to set this account up online, but to cancel has been a royal pain. I’ve made over a dozen calls to cancel. Most of the time, I was put on eternal hold until I gave up. A couple of times, I held so long that I went to voice mail. I’m sure it will come as no surprise that no one returned my calls.”

“Give me just a moment to pull up your account,” Amanda said cheerfully. “While I’m waiting on your information, I’d like to remind you that if ever you have to call 911, Intellix provides emergency services with your home address in case you’re unable to complete the call. Cell phones are less reliable in situations such as these.”

“I don’t mean to be rude,” the woman began. “I know you have a job to do and you’re required to follow certain protocols. I worked in the customer care business for years. But I’ve made up my mind, and nothing you have to tell me is going to change that, so can we just move this along? I have somewhere I need to be.”

“Yes, ma’am,” Amanda said slightly less cheery. “While I’m waiting for the computer to process your request, please allow me to tell you about our customer appreciation plan offered to those who have a high credit rating with Intellix. Should you change your mind, we will offer three free months with a new contract, so if—”

“Amanda, nothing you have to offer is going to change my mind. If Intellix was so concerned about keeping my business, why have they waited until I decided to cancel my service to throw me a bone? You’re just baiting me along, and I don’t appreciate it.”

“Ms. Simmons, please consider—”

“May I speak to a supervisor, please?”

“That won’t be necessary. I’ve already put in the request for the disconnect.” Aggravated that she’d lost control of the conversation, Amanda rattled off the confirmation number for the cancellation so quickly that Ms. Simmons had her repeat it twice. “I understand your displeasure about the wait for the cancellation, but may I ask you—” Amanda jerked when the sound of the phone being slammed down resonated through her ears.

Intellix’s most awarded customer service expert, or CSE as they were called, exhaled loudly after her call with Natalie Simmons. She glanced over at the framed certificates that lined the wall of her cubicle. She held the record for customer “saves.” It was rare that she couldn’t convince someone to hang on to their service, but she’d lost her edge with Natalie Simmons. She was tired and getting too old to run the roads into the wee hours of morning, then drag herself into work and perform to the standards she’d set for herself. That’s why Natalie Simmons gained control over her, she thought as she tapped a pen on her desk and stared at the information still on the screen.

Amanda had always been an unlucky name for her. The next day, she’d switch back to Carol. No one at Intellix ever gave his or her real name to give the impression that it was a much larger company than it actually was. That served her well. Completely anonymous, she had the upper hand and could gaze into someone’s personal life with the touch of a button. Who they talked to the most, who called them, and more importantly, where they lived.

Intellix provided her with some of the most intimate details of a person’s life. It was up to her to discover the rest. She’d been bored lately. No one interested her anymore—until today. Most were like putty in her hands bending to her will, but not Natalie Simmons. She was strong, knew what she wanted, someone who needed to be put in her place, a challenge to be embraced and relished. Finally, a worthy opponent had made her way into her clutches. It could be fun.

Ms. Simmons lived at 1937 Cutcher Street in Greenwell Springs, Louisiana, a suburb of Baton Rouge. Born October 4, 1978, she was two years older…could be interesting. Her attitude certainly was. CSE #223 jotted the information down. Maybe she’d get a second wind after her shift and have a look at Ms. Natalie Simmons.

Chapter One

“Well, you’re in early.”

Natalie Simmons looked over at the counter as she walked into the bookstore. A puff of gray hair peeked out over the top of a pile of books. “I hope you’ve made coffee, Andrea. I’m out at the house.”

“In the back. The chocolate is in the cabinet with the creamer.”

“Want a cup?” Natalie asked as she wove through the crowded shelves of books.

“No, I’m peeing every thirty minutes as it is. Don’t get old, kid, it sucks.”

Natalie smiled as she added a dash of chocolate syrup to her coffee. Andrea Thoreau, a chocolate lover and a diabetic, kept it on hand for her visits, though the temptation to indulge was often strong. Natalie had begged Andrea not to, but she’d only smiled and said, “If it makes your visits longer, then I’ll buy it by the case.”

“New arrivals?” Natalie walked back up to the counter.

“Yes, more used crap to fill the shelves with that no one will buy. I have a ton of these old romances with heaving bosoms and hard male members already.”

Natalie heard a gagging sound coming from behind the pile of tattered novels and laughed.

“Throw Dexter off the couch and have a seat. I’ll be over in a minute when my old brain sends the signal down to my feet.” Andrea slowly climbed off her stool.

Dexter, an overweight orange tabby, lay sprawled out in the warm beams of the sun piercing through the large storefront window. He mewled his protest when Natalie pushed him off to the side. Disgruntled with having to share his favorite napping spot, he hopped down and sauntered off to finish the last of his breakfast.

Andrea moved at a snail’s pace with her cane. Her wiry gray hair stuck out at odd angles, but her clothes were neatly pressed as always and disguised her “Buddha belly,” as she liked to call it. Andrea sank down onto the couch with a grunt. “This cool weather doesn’t make the old bones happy.” She patted Natalie on the knee. “How’s it treating you?”

“I could barely walk this morning, but I think it has more to do with all the work I’ve been doing in the flowerbeds than the cool temps.” Natalie stretched her legs out in front of her and slowly lifted them onto the scarred coffee table. “I’ll be finished once I put the mulch down.”

“Hard work is good for the soul, or so they say,” Andrea said with a smile. “You have some color in your face, must’ve done you good.”

Natalie took a sip of her coffee, enjoying the way the hot liquid warmed her. “I’ve got a new neighbor. Someone finally rented the Bordelons’ place.”

“’Bout time. A house that sits up empty falls to ruin.” Andrea propped a leg up on the table and sank back into the couch. “Hope they’re better than that last bunch of hooligans. Clyde said he spent a fortune on the repairs after he gave ’em the boot.”

“I’ve only seen one woman over there aside from the movers.”

Andrea nudged Natalie with her elbow. “She cute?”

Natalie laughed. “Yeah, and more than likely straight as an arrow.”

Andrea looked over at Natalie with a grin. “You might get lucky. Maybe you should bring her a house-warming gift.”

“No,” Natalie said as if the notion were ridiculous. “She’s nice looking, that’s all.”

“And if she turns out not to be straight, do you think you might be willing to…?”

Natalie met Andrea’s gaze. “I think that one day I’d like to be in a relationship, but it’s too soon.”

“Karen’s been gone for two years now. It’s not too soon.”

“I bought that house and furnished it the way I wanted it. I only have one picture of her up in the bedroom. I may’ve erased the memory of her from my everyday life, but she’s still in my heart.”

“She always will be.” Andrea reached over and squeezed Natalie’s hand. “But you’re too young to live alone with just memories.”

Memories are all I have left, Natalie thought. The bitterness of choices made by someone careless had begun to fade like the scars on her body, but on mornings like this, when fall began to make an appearance, she felt the anger gnaw at her soul. She’d spent Thanksgiving and Christmas fighting for her life two years earlier when a drunken driver who had a string of DUIs met them head-on on a crisp fall evening. She didn’t know what hit her until the day she awoke to a pain so severe she cried out for death to claim her as it had Karen.

First she learned of Karen’s death, then that she would have to endure a bout of physical therapy because of multiple fractures in her legs. Broken ribs made it agonizingly painful to breathe and cry, which she did every time she was remotely lucid. Karen was gone, and she was utterly alone with nothing but time to dwell on what her life would become.

“Let it go.” Andrea gave her hand another squeeze. “Don’t go back there.”

Andrea knew that Natalie was slipping mentally into the past. They’d talked about it so much that Andrea knew every detail, every feeling like she had experienced it herself. She had been the one bright light in Natalie’s life, her confidant, her sanctuary. Natalie let the warmth of her hand and the sound of her voice pull her back to the present.

“I want…I want a woman who wants me as bad as I want her. I want to be able to look in her eyes and see a passion, a desire that can’t be quenched.” Natalie looked as surprised with her sudden outburst as Andrea did.

“Whew.” Andrea fanned herself. “Don’t we all? Is that how Karen looked at you?”

“No.” Natalie shook her head. “That’s how I looked at her. I wanted her, craved her every minute of the day. One touch was never enough for me. She ignited such a flame, I burned every time she walked into the room. It wasn’t the same for her, though.” Natalie shook her head again, seeing Karen’s face in her mind. “I knew she loved me, but that was another way we were different. It hurt to realize that I didn’t stir in her what she did in me. Making love was something special, but undeniable passion was not something we both shared.”

“You were a sports car, she was a minivan,” Andrea surmised.

As always, Andrea made her laugh. “No, not like that. I guess I was just more expressive.”

“Settle for nothing less than a Lamborghini next time around, sugar. And don’t lose heart. She will come blazing into your life and you’ll take that ride.” Andrea grunted as her leg joined the other on the coffee table. “Now me, I’d settle for a jalopy. Something slow that spits and sputters the way I do.”

Natalie saw Andrea as more of a work truck, though she would never admit it aloud. Dented and worn from years of hard use, but with an engine that was still powerful despite the wear. Andrea’s seventy-year-old body might’ve been failing, but what was within was still very strong and resilient.

“When I lost Barb, I thought no one would ever fill her shoes. Frankly, I didn’t want anyone taking her place. Years flew by while I locked myself away, and one day, I woke up old and alone.” Andrea rubbed the back of Natalie’s hand with her thumb as she spoke. “You’re too young and beautiful to let that happen, and I won’t sit back and watch it.”

“I’m gonna help you put those books away, then I’ll do some grocery shopping,” Natalie said as she gently tugged her hand free. “And one night this week, I’m going to cook dinner. I expect you to accept my invitation when I call.”

“Little shit,” Andrea grumbled as she sat up. “Always changing the subject and making me work.”

****

Natalie Simmons was easy on the eyes. Her raspy and commanding voice on the phone didn’t match the soft features. She wasn’t butch, but not quite femme, either, somewhere delectably in between. One of those women who could look stunning in a cocktail dress, then turn around and look equally hot in a baseball cap and sweats.

She was close—close enough to reach out and touch. Clean smelling. Thick shoulder-length dark brown hair with dazzling green eyes, thin, but not frail. Interesting, much more so than the last. She’d been the typical soccer mom—easily excitable. It was no challenge to unravel a drama queen. But this one, this one held promise.

Chapter Two

Natalie hefted the last bag of red cedar mulch from the trunk of her car and tossed it over her shoulder. October was the perfect month to clean out the flowerbeds and mulch for the winter and would save her from having to do it in the heat of spring. It was a birthday gift she’d promised herself, and even though she had to do the work alone, it was the nicest gift aside from the new coffeepot from Andrea that she had received. Later if she felt like it, she would indulge herself with a trip to the bookstore and a mocha latte.

“Wow, any chance I can talk you into coming over to my place and doing my pitiful beds?”

Natalie spun and dropped the bag just shy of where she intended.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you,” the stranger said with a smile. “I just moved in next door and saw you in the yard. I wanted to introduce myself.”

Natalie regained her composure and returned the smile. “I saw the moving vans this past weekend, but,” she waved at the work she’d done in the flowerbeds, “I was too dirty to drop by.”

“I’m Lyn Stoddard.” The new neighbor held out her hand.

Natalie pulled off her gloves and wiped her hands on her jeans before shaking her hand. “I’m Natalie Simmons. Welcome to the neighborhood, or street, since there’s not much else out here.”

“It is sort of secluded.” Lyn looked up the road at the six houses that made up the development. “The rent was pretty decent since it’s so far out in the country, but I have to admit, I was a bit intimidated when I first came out here.”

“You’re from Baton Rouge then?” Natalie asked.

Lyn nodded. “I was beginning to lose hope that I’d find anything in my price range. The places I looked at in the city were in areas I was scared of. Is there ever any…trouble out here?”

“Not if you count an occasional raccoon raiding the trash. I’ve only lived here a year, but it’s quiet and everyone seems nice, though they tend to keep to themselves.” Natalie glanced at Lyn’s ring finger and found it bare. It would be nice to have another single woman as a neighbor even if she was straight. Lyn with her carefully coiffed sandy blond hair and polished nails wasn’t making even a blip on her gaydar. She didn’t appear to be familiar with country living, either, with her Ralph Lauren sweatshirt and khaki capri pants.

Natalie felt a sliver of empathy for her new neighbor as she remembered how it felt to spend her first night in the house alone. She’d started at every creak and groan of the old wood frame house for months until she became accustomed. “I take it you live alone?” Natalie asked with a disarming smile.

“For the first time since I moved out of my parents’ house,” Lyn admitted as she folded her arms across her chest. “I’m looking forward to it, though. I’ve spent too many years cooped up in a loveless relationship. It’s time for me to start living again.”

“Living again” was a chord that resonated with Natalie. At night when she crawled into bed alone, she wondered if she’d ever feel like she was truly living again instead of just surviving one day that bled into another. She kept hoping that one morning she’d awaken and life would be something she wanted to be a part of. She was still waiting.

“I live alone, too,” Natalie said with a shrug. “It was nerve wracking at first, but I feel safer here than in the city.”

Lyn seemed to relax, perhaps knowing that someone who could relate to her situation lived next door. “The privacy is something I can certainly get used to.” She looked over at the vine-covered wooden fence that separated their houses. “I sat out on the porch yesterday morning and didn’t see a soul. Where I lived before, you couldn’t take out the trash without running into someone.”

“Privacy is definitely a benefit. No one really ventures back here unless they live here or know someone that does. Occasionally, you see a UPS truck or the mail carrier, but that’s about it.” Natalie looked down at the last bag of mulch. She hated to leave it undone, but the polite side of her felt she should at least invite Lyn in for coffee.

“Would you like to come inside? I could put on a pot of coffee,” Natalie offered. “I don’t have much in the way of soda. I’m trying to cut back, but I do have iced tea.”

Lyn looked down at her watch. “I’d really love to, but I have a couple of errands to run. Maybe in the next day or so?”

“Sounds great. I’m pretty much always here. Drop by anytime.”

Natalie watched as Lyn strolled across her front yard and disappeared behind the fence. She was surprised at the miniscule surge of attraction she felt watching Lyn’s backside. It’d been a long time since she’d felt anything remotely close to sexual interest. Too bad it was spent on a straight woman.

The last bag of mulch spread easily, and she looked at her handiwork with satisfaction. Aside from painting the interior of the house, which took her six months, this was the first real work she’d done in a while. She grabbed the handrail wearily and climbed the three steps to her porch. After she kicked off her shoes, she stepped inside and groaned loudly as she massaged her thighs. She would pay dearly for her birthday gift the next day and decided to skip grocery shopping and take a long hot bath.

As she made her way through the living room, Natalie stopped and looked back over the room. Karen wouldn’t have liked the way she decorated her first attempt at separating herself from the past. No, Karen wouldn’t have cared for the egg shell-colored walls; she would have opted for something bold, perhaps rustic. Nor would she have liked the leather sofa and matching recliner. Karen would’ve taken the old house and restored it to its former glory, filling it with antiques. Décor was something they never agreed upon.

Natalie showered first and rinsed the dirt and grime from her skin and hair, then filled the tub. She liberally added Epsom salt before sinking down into the hot water with a sigh. The scars that covered her legs had begun to fade from dark red to pale pink. The ones on her chest looked much the same. She wondered if maybe the scars on her soul were beginning to fade, as well.

Chapter Three

Natalie knew she should’ve gone shopping the day before like she had told Andrea. Instead, she’d foolishly waited until after a day’s work in the yard, and now she was paying the price. Natalie’s breath came out in a hiss. She’d only managed to make it halfway through her grocery list before her legs screamed in protest. Now the checkout aisle seemed like an insurmountable mountain that had to be climbed. Stubborn pride had caused her to push past the motorized cart that would’ve allowed her to shop without pain.

For the last two years, her whole existence had been about pain—emotional and physical. She’d come close to losing herself to the medication that dulled the constant aches. There were days that she longed to take a pill that would make everything hazy and muted. But she’d witnessed firsthand what toll the tiny crutches took in a life. Her father had leaned heavily on them after the passing of her mother, and she would not follow that same spiraling dark path. If she was going to check out of this life, she would not gradually kill herself. It would be quick.

“You okay?” a voice behind her asked. She turned and took a cautious step back before she realized that the woman standing before her was in work clothes. Her knee-jerk first impression had been that a homeless person had wandered into the store. Dark brown curls peeked out from a tattered ball cap splattered with flecks of paint as were her T-shirt and jeans. The woman pulled off her sunglasses, revealing a pair of dark eyes, almost black, that stared at her with an unnerving intensity.

“I’m fine,” Natalie said with weak smile. “I worked out in my yard maybe a little too much. My legs aren’t happy with me right now.” Natalie watched as the dark gaze moved down to her hands that were white-knuckled clutching the handle of the shopping cart. Reluctantly, she released the handle and shoved her scarred hand into the pocket of her jacket.

The stranger smiled, but the intensity of her gaze never wavered. “I understand. Some days when I’ve climbed the ladder for what seems a million times, I ache. You look a bit pale, though. Are you sure you’re okay?”

Natalie nodded. “It just hit me all of the sudden. I think I’m more tired than I realized.”

The stranger perched her sunglasses atop her hat and smiled again. “I hope you feel better,” she said before walking off.

Stiff-legged, Natalie managed to finish her shopping, although she wanted to burst into tears when she was forced to stand in line behind a woman who had a wad of coupons and wanted to debate expiration dates. Another contention of pride was her refusal of a handicapped license plate that would’ve made her walk to the car a tiny bit more manageable. Then again, had she opted for the things that made life easier, she might not have been walking at all.

“Terry, lunch is over. Load your ass.”

Natalie looked up at the sound of the male voice. Her breath caught as she met the same dark gaze that she’d encountered in the store. The woman she’d spoken to earlier was leaning against the back of the truck watching her. She tipped the bottle of water she’d been drinking in Natalie’s direction, then climbed into the truck. Natalie watched out of the corner of her eye as it lumbered through the parking lot and disappeared onto the roadway.

She thought it ironic that just the day before she told Andrea that she wanted a woman to look at her with desire, and that’s exactly what she saw in the stranger’s eyes—a hunger that made her feel like she was on the verge of being devoured.

Natalie put up the perishables the minute she got home but left the rest for later. She sank into the recliner, elevated her legs, and switched on the TV. Her brow furrowed as she looked at the screen. She hated news channels with their twenty-four-hour muckraking, shit-stirring drivel. Fox News in her opinion was the worst, but there it sat on her screen.

She’d watched a movie on the SyFy channel the night before. Could she have channel surfed and landed on this before turning in? She flicked through her list of movie channels and found nothing of interest before dozing off. Her bladder woke her a while later, protesting the coffee she had indulged in. Her legs were stiff, but not as sore as they were before as she moved slowly down the hall to the bathroom. She stopped in the doorway. Her eyes focused on the hairbrush sitting on the counter. Even if Karen hadn’t complained about it for years, Natalie knew one fact about herself—she was a meticulous creature of habit. Everything had a place, and when she was done with it, she put it back. She’d been in a hurry that morning having overslept, but there was no doubt in her mind that she’d put the brush back into the drawer after she’d finished with it.

She picked it up and studied it curiously. Suddenly, the urge to use the bathroom wasn’t so strong as she walked into her bedroom. Nothing seemed out of place at first. The bed was made, her sleep shirt draped across the chair, but the closet door was ajar. A surge of panic forced her heart to race as she wondered if someone was standing behind that door as she stood there staring at it. The thought made her blood run cold.

Without pondering what the consequences might be, she moved as fast as she could and jerked it open. There was no one, only her clothes hanging in neat rows a finger’s breadth apart. She sniffed at the stagnant air. Something wasn’t quite right. She recognized the smell of laundry detergent and scented laundry sheets and the hint of her perfume that remained in her clothes even after laundering. But this was something different. The scent was neither foul nor strong, just strange and new.

Natalie closed the door and roamed the rest of the house. Something had changed, though she couldn’t put her finger on it. She felt as if a new energy had been introduced and mingled with hers uninvited. Though she loved a good ghost story, she’d never been one to believe that the departed hung around, but as she used the bathroom, she thought about Karen. If she were hanging around and wanted to make her presence known, she knew exactly what to do to get her attention. It would be just like her humor to leave things slightly askew as she had done in life.

Natalie dismissed this train of thought. Karen was gone; she felt the void. She knew the minute she regained consciousness before the doctor ever gave that horrible confirmation that Karen was no longer with her.

“I will not do this.” She looked at her reflection in the mirror as she washed her hands. She swallowed down the ache and the lump in her throat. “Karen, you were my heart and soul, but I can’t allow myself to sink into that quagmire of desolation again.” Natalie knew Karen would agree as she clenched her jaw and made her way to the kitchen to finish putting away the groceries.

****

Total neat freak. This would make things harder. After she’d sniffed the night shirt, she had to arrange it three times to make it look like it did when she found it. Why had she picked it up in the first place? Hadn’t she learned after all this time not to touch? The TV, hairbrush, and the closet door were a stroke of genius. Just enough to make one wonder, but no one could be certain that they hadn’t done it themselves. A prompt to begin the niggling of unsettling doubt, a thrilling beginning to the game.

The perfume, Ralph Lauren’s Blue for women, was an excellent choice for Natalie. Not too flowery, but a delightfully feminine scent nevertheless. She sniffed at her wrist. “Shit,” she said aloud. The cologne, her own, she wore it again. “How careless.”

No shorts, no tank tops, or sleeveless blouses. Only jeans and long-sleeved tops. Was Natalie self-conscious about her body or was she hiding something?

The picture beside the bed confirmed earlier suspicions. The matching rings, the intimate pose. Now that was a thriller. Heterosexual women presented challenges. The seduction took longer, and of course, the boyfriend or husband just got in the way. Oh, and children, she hated those little nuisances, but at times, they did prove useful when the regular manipulations failed.

She’d taken her time staring at the woman in the picture. This was someone Natalie obviously worshipped—someone to be emulated. Years of practice had taught her where to find a person’s most revealing information. Nearly everyone in this day and age had their most poignant moments captured on DVDs or videotape. Fortunately, Natalie had many neatly labeled. Gloved hands chose the one marked “Karen’s thirtieth birthday.” Perfect.

Gaining entrance to the home of her person of interest was the biggest high of all, yet occasionally a disappointment like when they hid a key outside. Natalie wasn’t one of those. Neither did she have a dog. The Milkbones she picked up on the way were a waste. But Natalie did provide her with one of the most exciting entrances she’d made in a long time.

She’d watched from the woods as Natalie watered her plants in the backyard. When she moved to the front, it was time to make a move. With the speed and stealth of a cat, she slipped into the back door, loafers in hand. The closet of the spare bedroom was neatly organized and provided the perfect place to hide as she listened to Natalie move around in the house.

She was patient and could wait until nightfall if necessary, but luck was on her side when she heard the house grow silent and the sound of a car. Her heart pounded wildly as she moved through the house. She knew what had to be done if she’d made a mistake and Natalie was still inside. It would be a pity to have to end the game so soon.

Natalie might’ve been cautious about leaving a key outside but not too bright when it came to hiding one on the inside. She found the ring in the junk drawer of the kitchen and slipped the key labeled “house spare” into her pocket with a grin. But still, if given the chance, she’d sneak in the way she did that day just for the thrill of it.

Chapter Four

The sound of childish laughter drew Natalie to a side of the park she normally avoided. She had pushed herself hard walking two miles instead of one. Instead of going back to her car, she deviated from the usual routine and took a seat on one of the benches alongside the baseball field. Her days blurred from one to another, and it took her a minute to realize it was Saturday. Children were playing soccer on the ball field, enjoying their weekend, and in the middle of the group was a familiar face.

Muscled legs pumped hard as she moved the ball across the field. With one fierce kick, she launched the ball against the backstop. Her team comprised of smaller boys yelled in delight, while their older competitors groaned. Natalie watched as the dark-haired woman slapped high fives with her teammates. That day, instead of being covered in paint, she was wearing a pair of running shorts and a T-shirt, her ball cap on backward.

Unnoticed, Natalie watched her play as she sipped from her bottled water. At one time, that would’ve been me, she thought idly. She stretched her legs. Maybe one day she would be able to join in.

One of the older boys on the opposing team barreled down the field bumping the smaller ones out of his way. His teammates called out for the ball, but his sights were on the goal. A boy half his size challenged him midfield, and as he moved around him, he rammed his elbow into the challenger’s ribs. The child sank to the ground screaming in pain. Undaunted, the older child kicked the ball into the backstop, scoring.

“That doesn’t count,” the woman called out over the younger boy’s cries. She knelt by his side and put a hand to his chest.

Natalie walked out onto the field. The blond boy didn’t look any older than seven or eight. The woman was rubbing gently along his ribs. “It doesn’t feel like anything’s broken, but you may want to go home and let your mom have a look at you,” Natalie heard her say.

“You okay, Moose?” one of the teammates asked as he knelt, too.

“He’s fine, he’s just a whiny baby,” one of the older boys said as he walked up.

“If I hit you in the ribs like that, you’d cry too,” the woman said as she looked up at the boy.

“Go ahead and try it,” the child said haughtily.

“You’re Mr. Crenshaw’s son, aren’t you?” Natalie said. All eyes moved to her, including the intense stare that she’d seen a few days before in the grocery store. “I don’t think your dad would be pleased to hear you talking to adults like that, would he?”

“No, ma’am,” the boy said, taking a step back. He looked at the woman in the ball cap. “Sorry, ma’am.”

“And you’re Scott Bordelon, Clyde’s grandson,” Natalie said to the boy who had hit the younger one. She watched his face flush as he nodded.

“Sorry, Moose.”

“Yeah, you’re sorry,” Moose said as he sat up. “And you’re a cheater.”

The woman with the ball cap looked away, hiding her smile. “Now, Moose, he did apologize.”

Moose lowered his voice and said with a slight lisp, “He’s a jerk.”

Natalie put her bottle in front of her face and muffled her laugh. The woman with the ball cap looked up at her with a grin of her own. “Moose, run home and let your mom take a look at your ribs.”

“Gimme my ball, jackass,” Moose said to Scott.

Scott looked like he was going to say something but bit his lip after a glance at Natalie. He tossed the ball to Moose and walked away with his friends.

“That’s an awfully big boy, son. If I were you, I wouldn’t talk to him like that.”

Moose looked up at the woman who knelt at his side and dried his eyes on his sleeve. “I’m sorry, I’m just mad.” He looked up at Natalie, who stood close by. “You’re not gonna tell my mom I said ass, are you?”

Natalie bit back a smile. “No, not this time.”

“Thanks.” Moose stood with the help of the woman next to him and limped off the field with his buddies.

“I guess the game’s over,” the woman said as she stood. “My name is Terry Rayford.”

“Pleased to meet you, Terry. I’m Natalie Simmons.”

Terry brushed dirt from her knees. “I’d shake your hand, but it seems I’m filthy every time I run into you. And thank you for stepping in when you did. I was about to pinch that boy’s head off.”

Natalie laughed. “No one would’ve complained if you did. Scott and his friends have a reputation for bullying and being smart-mouthed.”

Terry’s eyes sparkled as she smiled. “Sometimes I forget that I’m not twelve and I can’t pop a knot on someone. When I was a kid, that’s exactly what I would’ve done. I never liked a bully.”

“Spoken like a true tomboy.”

Terry laughed. “I take it you played rough as a kid then?”

“Oh, yeah.” Natalie nodded. “None of the other girls wanted to play with me.” She looked out over the field. “I used to spend all my weekends in a place just like this, playing baseball with the boys.”

“I still do.” Terry held up her dirty hands. “Obviously, but today’s game was soccer.” She tilted her head as her gaze flickered over Natalie’s hands, which she stuffed in her pockets.

“You have kids then?” Natalie looked around, avoiding her gaze.

“No, it’s just good exercise.”

Terry was looking at her, studying her face. Natalie took a step back, feeling suddenly nervous under the scrutiny. “I…don’t, either,” she said awkwardly. “Well, it was very nice meeting you.”

“You too,” Terry said with a nod.

Natalie turned and walked away. She glanced back over her shoulder as Terry sprinted across the field. Aside from her car, there were no others in the parking lot. As she pulled out onto the roadway, she noticed Terry’s back as she jogged in the other direction. She glanced in the rearview a few times, watching as she faded from sight. “She must live close,” she said aloud. “Sweet and…cute…and unnerving.”

****

A loaner, she thought as she watched Natalie make her laps around the park. Something stirred within as she watched her. Sympathy? Never. Something was obviously wrong with her. Natalie had stopped often and leaned heavily against trees, park benches. She didn’t appear out of shape, but she was struggling, that much was obvious. An injury maybe?

She yawned and stretched, wincing as she did. The scratches down her back from the previous night’s escapades were still fresh. She didn’t care much for blondes, but the sandy-haired girl at the bar caught her eye nevertheless. She liked her athletic form, enjoyed the way her eyes looked surprised when she forced her down onto the bed. The woman had been more than willing to give into her. Sex between them was brutal just the way she liked it.

She thought then about Natalie. She would not be so willing once she understood that she was the pawn. She would fight, and that gave her a certain thrill.

Chapter Five

Something had been digging in her newly laid mulch. A cat, Natalie thought as she raked it out smooth, and the smell of feline excrement assaulted her sinuses—probably the black and white tom that stalked her bird feeder. She turned at the sound of leaves crunching underfoot in her front yard and smiled as Lyn made her way over.

“I was wondering if that offer for coffee was still good.” She held up a basket covered by a cloth. “I made some things to go with it.”

“Of course,” Natalie said. “Come on in.” She walked up the steps slowly, gripping the handrail, and hoped that the effort it took to make the climb wasn’t too obvious. It was stupid really. She had no reason to be ashamed of her condition but still hated the idea of someone feeling sorry for her.

Lyn seemed not to notice as she climbed up behind her. “Oh, my God, this is lovely,” Lyn said as she stood in the doorway. “I wish my house had a fireplace.” She walked across the room and ran her hand over the mantel. “I’ve never lived anywhere that had one, not even as a kid.”

“I’ll invite you over when it gets cold enough to light a fire.” Natalie moved into the kitchen that adjoined the living room and began making the coffee.

“I like how this is so open.” Lyn walked up to the bar. “There’s a wall separating my kitchen from the living room.”

“This one was the same way when I bought it, but I had the wall taken down since it wasn’t load bearing.”

“Excellent idea. There’s so much more light.” Lyn set the basket on the bar and lifted the towel. The smell of fresh baked banana bread and spiced muffins filled the kitchen. “I like natural light. It makes everything seem so…I dunno…fresh?”

“I know what you mean.” Natalie pulled out two cups from the cupboard and set them on the table with cream and sugar. “There weren’t many windows along the front of the house, so I had two added. It was well worth the expense.”

As Natalie took out two saucers and a knife, Lyn moved around the counter and took them from her. “Let me help you with that,” she said with a smile.

Natalie took the coffeepot and joined her at the table. The groan that escaped her as she sat was a habit that living alone made hard to break.

“Are you still sore from the yard work last week?” Lyn asked as she moved the basket to the table. “Because I’m still aching from unpacking boxes, which is obviously less strenuous than what you did.”

Natalie thought about lying, but if Lyn did manage to live next door for any appreciable amount of time, she’d eventually find out about the accident. “Old injuries from a car accident,” she admitted as Lyn took a seat beside her. “Moving around strengthens the muscles, but it gets painful at times. I think I may’ve overdone it working in the yard.”

“I broke my ankle as a kid. Sometimes when it’s cold, it still stiffens up.” Lyn’s eyes showed compassion as she spoke. “I take it you broke more than an ankle.”

“Both legs, some ribs.” Natalie lifted her bangs. “And my head.” She smiled. “But don’t worry. I’m not one to try to regale you with stories of my wounds.”

“Well, hell, did you run into a bus?”

“It certainly felt like it,” Natalie said with a laugh. “Some days, I feel like I’ve been run over by a bus.”

“Healing takes time, so I’m told.” Lyn cut off a slice of bread and pushed the plate over to Natalie. “This was my mother’s recipe.”

Natalie’s eyes fluttered shut upon taking the first bite. “Heavenly.”

“My ex hated banana bread, hated the way it smelled,” Lyn said before taking a bite. She chewed with a pleased smile. “I bake it all the time now.”

“Your ex was crazy. This is delicious.”

Lyn nodded as she swallowed. “She was, she truly was, took me a long time to see it, though.”

“She?” Natalie said with her fork poised in front of her mouth. “You weren’t even a blip on my gaydar.”

Lyn smiled again as she nodded. “Ellie was a sweetheart when we first met, but once I gave up my place and moved in with her, it went downhill.”

“She was possessive and jealous?”

“Yes, and she had no respect for my privacy. She’d go through my phone to see who I’d called and who called me. My purse, my mail was constantly rifled through.” Lyn sat back and took a sip of her coffee. “When she started calling my coworkers and grilling them about what I did at work, I called it quits.”

“How long were you with her?”

“A year. I was incredibly stupid.” Lyn sliced another piece of banana bread for Natalie. “She told me how her last girlfriend cheated on her. I thought I could love her through her anxiety by proving that someone could be faithful, but in the end, it was just too much. She’s just crazy, and I can’t fix that.”

“Is that why you’re so afraid of living alone out here? Do you think she’s going to come after you?” Natalie asked before stuffing a large piece of bread into her mouth.

Lyn chuckled. “No, I’m just afraid of the dark. This shouldn’t come as a surprise, but Ellie had someone on the side. I moved out and she moved in, so she’s occupied. They deserve each other.”

“It still hurt, though, didn’t it?”

“Yeah, it did,” Lyn said somberly. “But I came to terms with what we had was a sham before I left. Her new girlfriend was just another stab in the back.”

“I’m sorry,” Natalie said sincerely. “Sometimes life really sucks, doesn’t it?”

“It can,” Lyn agreed, “but sometimes you just have to look at things like this as a bump in the road and go on. Chalk it up to a learning experience.”

“I admire your resilient spirit. Good for you.”

“I take it you’re single. Was your ex a total tool, too?” Lyn asked as she sipped her coffee.

“No, she was my heart. I loved her very much, still do.” Natalie said, surprised at how numb she felt as she said the words.

Lyn reached over and placed a hand on her arm. “Did she leave you?”

Natalie nodded and was silent for a moment. “She did, the night of the accident.”

Lyn’s face lost its color. “She…died?”

“Yeah,” Natalie said with a nod. “They said it was instantaneous. She never felt a thing.”

Lyn hung her head. “I am…so very sorry. I cannot imagine the depth of that loss.”

They sat quietly for a moment until Natalie spoke up. “I appreciate your compassion, but it’s been two years, and I’ve cried and talked about it all I can.”

Lyn gave Natalie’s arm a squeeze. Her eyes were moist. “I understand.”

“I’m cooking dinner for a friend of mine tomorrow night. Why don’t you join us?”

“I will say yes if I can make dessert.” Lyn looked hopeful.

“Deal. We eat at six.”

Natalie waved one last time as Lyn slipped behind the fence. She felt like she had finally bonded with someone aside from Andrea, her only friend. Life was beginning to seem a little less desolate.

Chapter Six

“We make a fine pair, don’t we?” Andrea leaned heavily against the wall. “How’re you doing?”

Natalie pushed her hair out of her eyes. “Not bad, but let’s wait until tomorrow to move that last case.”

“Good idea. I need to clean up a few things in here before we shove anything else into it. I’ve been meaning to tackle this storeroom for a while. I’ve got enough shit piled up in here to be a fire hazard.”

“You’re not going to try to clean this out yourself, are you?” Natalie looked around at the piles of boxes that were nearly as tall as she was.

“Hell no.” Andrea grinned. “Hired myself a handygirl today. She’ll be in after lunch.”

Natalie brushed dust and cobwebs from her jeans. “Where’d you find her?”

“She’s been coming into the store in the afternoon for a couple of weeks now. We got to talking the other day, and she mentioned that she did odd jobs on her days off.” Andrea pushed the door open and waited for Natalie to pass through. “She’s going to clean out the storage room and tidy things up back there for me. She’s really kind of attractive.”

“Speaking of attractive.” Natalie turned and smiled at Andrea. “My neighbor is joining us for dinner tonight. And she’s in the club.”

“Well, no shit. That makes four of us in the neighborhood.”

Natalie picked up Dexter and took his spot on the couch. He allowed her to pet him for a second before shooting off. “This handygirl you spoke of, does she have dark curly hair?”

Andrea looked surprised. “She does, name’s Terry. You know her?”

“I think I may’ve met her. I went to the park Saturday, and she was playing soccer with some kids.”

“Nice girl.” Andrea brushed some dust from her clothes. “I think she’s single,” she said without looking up.

“Why don’t you bring her with you when you come to dinner tonight?” Natalie offered. “The roast is huge, and I don’t want to have to eat leftovers all week.”

Andrea looked back at her with an ear-to-ear grin. “I sure will, and I won’t take no for an answer.”

Natalie returned home and smiled when the smell of roast slow cooking filled her senses. Karen had been the one to teach her to cook it atop the stove simmering in gravy for hours until it was tender enough to cut with a fork. It was a little bit easier to think of her today, perhaps because she had something to look forward to. She’d missed cooking and sharing a meal with friends.

She thought about her old pals as she checked the roast. Mostly, they were Karen’s friends, but they accepted her as one of the gang when they’d started dating. But everything changed after the accident. Natalie couldn’t bear to see their pain, nor could she handle being reminded of Karen every time they spoke. They understood her bitterness and tried to stick by her, but as time marched on, she shoved each one from her life.

Maybe it was time to give them a call and apologize for her behavior.

Lyn arrived thirty minutes early with a fresh baked apple pie that she confessed she picked up at a bakery on the way home from work. “I wanted to cook something myself, but I couldn’t get out of the office early today. We were busy.”

“Where do you work?” Natalie asked as she poured Lyn a glass of iced tea.

“An office supply warehouse in Baton Rouge. I’ve been there for what feels like a hundred years. Our staff dwindled down to nothing when the big office supply chains started taking a bite out of our business. I bounce between sales and office duties. Oh, hey, let me help with something,” Lyn said as Natalie took the makings of the salad from the refrigerator.

“If you want to cut up the tomatoes and cucumbers, that would be helpful.” Natalie watched as Lyn washed the tomatoes. She slid the cutting board across the counter and laid the paring knife on top of it. Lyn hummed as she moved the vegetables to the board and began slicing. It seemed as though they had cooked together for years. Natalie had forgotten how good it felt to have the company of another.

“What are you thinking about?” Lyn gave her a sideways glance.

Natalie realized she was smiling. “It’s just good to have someone else in the kitchen.”

They both started when they heard a knock at the front door. “That’s Andrea, be right back.”

“Smells good, kid.” Andrea stepped in and hugged Natalie. “Oh, say hello to Terry Rayford.” Andrea stepped to the side as Natalie looked into a familiar pair of dark eyes.

“Well, hello again,” Terry said with a smile.

“Hello.” Natalie took a step back. “I’m glad you could make it.”

Andrea chuckled and elbowed Terry in the ribs. Terry tucked her hands in the back pockets of her shorts. “Thank you for inviting me to dinner.”

“She didn’t feel right about ‘barging in,’ but I assured her that she had been invited.”

“Actually, she threatened to have my truck towed until I agreed.” Terry glanced at Andrea. “I wouldn’t have shown up empty-handed.”

“No need to bring anything. We have all we need.” Natalie watched as Terry’s gaze moved beyond her shoulder.

“Hello, I’m Lyn,” she said as she came to stand at Natalie’s side. She held her hand out to Terry, who looked apprehensive for a spilt second, then shook it. “And you must be Andrea,” Lyn said as she extended her hand again.

“I am.” Natalie watched as Andrea’s sharp gaze flickered over Lyn. “Heard a lot of nice things about you, welcome to the area.”

“Andrea,” Natalie said, “I have unsweet tea.”

“Perfect,” she said as she headed toward the kitchen with Lyn behind her.

Natalie looked at Terry shyly. “What can I get you to drink?”

“Water is fine for me.”

Natalie felt a shiver run up her spine as Terry regarded her the way she had in the grocery store. It was unsettling, but at the same time…exciting. Unlike the last time Natalie had seen her, she was wearing a clean sweatshirt over a pair of shorts. Her hair dark as night was shiny and full of natural curl and framed her tanned face. Natalie’s gaze moved over her legs as Terry walked around the living room looking at everything curiously, her muscled calves flexing with each step.

Natalie remembered that she’d offered drinks and went into the kitchen. Lyn had already poured Andrea a glass of tea, and they were talking about the bookstore that Lyn was yet to discover. Natalie filled a glass of ice and water for Terry. As she turned around, she noticed that Terry had moved to the bar and was watching her intently.

“Thank you,” she said softly as Natalie handed her the glass. She glanced over at Lyn, who was watching the exchange with interest.

“Why don’t I put the salads out?” Lyn gave Natalie’s shoulder a squeeze.

“Great, I’ll serve up the roast,” Natalie said, thankful for something to do. She pulled the roast from the pot and put it on a plate. As she plucked it apart with a fork, she could feel Terry watching her. When she reached up into the cabinet for a serving dish and glanced in Terry’s direction, dark eyes met hers.

“You ought to see my storeroom.” Andrea slapped the tabletop and pointed her cane at Terry. “It’s immaculate! This kid had it cleaned and organized in less than two hours.”

Terry smiled and shrugged.

“Doesn’t talk much, though.” Andrea laughed. “I suppose that’s why she’s so fast.”

“Do you live around here, Terry?” Lyn fished around in the fridge and pulled out several bottles of salad dressing.

“Yes, I moved here about a month ago.” Her voice was low and smooth as she answered.

“She’s renting Clyde’s cabin,” Andrea added.

“Clyde Bordelon is your landlord, too?” Lyn asked.

“He’s everybody’s landlord, sugar. He or his family owns nearly every piece of property in this area.” Andrea took a sip of her tea. “I bought my building from him.”

Lyn moved the salads and dressings to the table. “I looked at that cabin before I decided on the house next door. I don’t think I could’ve handled living in the woods like that.”

“Why not?” Terry asked with interest.

“Because it’s secluded, not another soul for miles.” Lyn rubbed her arms like the thought gave her chills. “This street is as nearly remote, but at least there are people nearby.”

Terry pulled out her phone and punched the keys with her thumb. “It’s about a mile directly through the woods behind this house.” She held it up so that everyone could see the two points illuminated on the GPS screen. “That’s not too remote.”

“You’re not afraid to live out there by yourself, or do you live alone?” Lyn asked. “You have a…partner?”

Terry shook her head. “It’s just me.”

Lyn took two plates from Natalie as she gathered the other two and took them to the table. Lyn and Andrea took a seat to her right and left, Terry sat directly across from her. “Everybody dig in, but save room for apple pie.”

Conversation ebbed for a moment as all four women began to eat. “The potatoes are saturated with the gravy,” Terry observed. “They’re delicious.”

“Thank you,” Natalie said as she picked at her salad.

“So what do you do for a living, Terry?” Lyn asked.

“I’m a nuclear electrician at Riverbend Power Plant.”

“In St. Francisville?” Natalie said. “My God, what a commute.”

“It’s not so bad if you take the back roads,” Terry said nonchalantly.

“How come you moved out here? St. Francisville and even Clinton are closer,” Andrea said.

“I grew up in this area as a kid, and I like to move around a lot. I get bored with the scenery.”

Conversation hit a lull again and Andrea spoke up. “Lyn, what do you think of your new place?”

“I’m getting used to it.” She looked around. “It’s nothing like Natalie’s,” she said with a smile. “I haven’t been able to capture the cheery look that she has.”

“So you don’t live here?” Terry asked. “I kind of got the impression that you…” She gestured between Natalie and Lyn with her fork.

“Oh…no,” Natalie said with an awkward smile. “We’re neighbors.”

“That’s nice,” Terry said.

“Yes, it is,” Lyn agreed with a smile, but Natalie noticed it didn’t quite reach her eyes.

“So what is it that you do?” Terry looked at Natalie.

From the corner of her eye, Natalie saw Andrea stiffen and felt her place a hand on her arm. Natalie smiled. The unspoken communication between them said, It’s okay. Andrea’s tense expression relaxed into a warm smile.

“I don’t do much of anything. Mostly, I spend my mornings with Andrea at the store, then I come home and toddle around the house.” Natalie took a sip of her tea as she decided how much to reveal. “I was in a serious car accident two years ago. My partner…was killed. I’d like to be able to say that I sued to keep a wealthy family from letting their alcoholic son rob someone else of their life, but to be honest, I was just pissed. So now I live off the money I won.”

For the first time since they’d first encountered each other, Natalie saw the intense stare slide from Terry’s face. Her gaze moved to the table, her face was a blank page. “I’m sorry,” she said barely above a whisper.

“We all are.” Lyn reached over to rub Natalie’s arm.

Natalie released a long cleansing breath. She felt the tethers that held her down begin to pull away. The pain was still there, but something deep within was cutting at the thick scar tissue that weighed on her constantly. She raised her glass. “To new and very dear old friends that make life sweeter.”

The other three women raised their glasses and tapped them with hers. Andrea gave her a genuinely pleased smile.

Later as they sat around sipping coffee and eating pie, Terry walked around the living room as though she were testing the floor. “You have a slight dip right here,” she said as she knelt.

“I know, I’ve tripped because of it,” Natalie said.

Terry stood and looked at it thoughtfully. “It wouldn’t be hard to repair, just take up this area of flooring.” She pointed to a five-foot span in front of the door. “I could do it for you if you’d like.”

“A nuclear electrician and a handyman,” Lyn said. “Tell us, what other talents do you have?”

Terry’s genuine smile transformed her face. Natalie liked the look of it. “That’s all I’ve got.” She held her arms up and let them drop to her waist. “But I’m cheap.” She looked at Natalie. “And for a friend, it’s only the cost of the materials.”

“I could throw in meals and maybe a little bit of assistance,” Natalie offered.

“I have to work at the plant for the next two days, but I could start after that.”

“Do you have to work the weekend?” Andrea asked.

“No, I’m off. You have another project for me?”

“We’re having the autumn festival this weekend, you have to come.” Andrea looked over at Natalie. “Even Ms. Simmons is going to make an appearance. Lyn, you’ll come, too, won’t you?”

Lyn nodded. “I’d love to. It sounds like a blast.”

“Terry?” Andrea said, looking at her.

She shrugged. “I’ll think about it.”

Andrea raised her brows and stared at Terry. Natalie grinned, knowing the look she’d been on the receiving end of when she had failed to commit to going. “How about I pick you up? Gonna be some great food there. The Bordelons are cooking up a huge pot of jambalaya.”

“Just say yes, Terry, or she really will show up after she drags me out of my house.” Natalie grinned when Andrea looked at her crossly. She raised her hands in surrender. “I’m going.”

Andrea pulled herself out of the chair and waved her cane at Terry. “Time to shake a leg, kid. We’ll discuss it more on the ride back to your truck.”

“Oh, so she made you ride with her, did she?” Natalie asked as she stood.

Terry nodded. “She took my keys.”

Chapter Seven

“That was a serious hug Lyn gave you when we all left last night.” Andrea joined Natalie on the couch at the bookstore. “Does she always do that?”

“No.” Natalie shook her head. “Kinda took me by surprise, too.”

“Mm-hmm.” Andrea took a sip of her coffee and grinned. “Just as I thought.”

Natalie grinned right along with her. “Wanna fill me in on your theory?”

“I think she was letting Terry know that she has her sights set on you.”

Natalie figured the same. Lyn took every opportunity to touch her each time she passed or spoke to her. She saw Terry’s eyes narrow a time or two. At first, she was a little put off by the attention, but as she lay in bed that night, she thought it was kind of cute that Lyn acted as though she were trying to lay claim.

Terry, on the other hand, kept her distance, but every time Natalie looked in her direction, Terry was staring at her with that same intensity that caused her stomach to flutter. At the close of the evening, Terry thanked her for the meal and the invitation and graced her with a genuine smile.

“They’re polar opposites, aren’t they?” Natalie mused aloud.

“Yeah, and from what I noticed last night, they’ll mix like oil and water. Ole Terry sat back and watched everything without comment, but I’d bet my store that if Lyn hit the right button, she’d get an ear full. I like the kid myself.”

“What’d you think of Lyn?”

Andrea sat with her cup held against her lip swirls of steam rose up around her forehead. “She seems nice enough, but I think she could be a bit pushy. Pretty, though, very pretty.”

“I know what you’re waiting for.” Natalie grinned. “You’re waiting for me to show the slightest bit of interest in one of them, then you’re going to roll into match-making mode.” Natalie pointed a finger at Andrea. “I’ve only just met these women, and though the attention is nice, I’m not hoping for anything more than friendship.”

“Oh, you’re right about one thing,” Andrea said. “You know nothing about them, but as time rolls on, something could develop, and I hope if you’re interested that you won’t hold back.”

****

The key turned easily in the lock, and she slipped inside in socked feet. Natalie must’ve been in a hurry because she didn’t bother watering her plants. Eyebrows rose as she noticed a plate and glass in the sink. Yes, she had been in a rush.

She padded through the kitchen and down the hall to the bedroom. Gloved hands opened the nightstand and hesitated before rifling through the items there. A tube of lip balm, two ink pens, hmm, an address book. That might come in handy later. She lifted the book and set it on the bed. Beneath the address book was a Frommer’s Travel Guide, and below that was the jackpot. Sympathy cards, get-well wishes, and a newspaper article. Local woman Karen Allen died at the scene…Natalie Simmons still in critical condition at Our Lady Of The Lake Hospital. Sixth-offense DUI, driving under revocation…bond set for Keith Kelly… How very enlightening.

A picture, Natalie and Karen standing in front of a brand new Mustang. “How sweet.” She tucked it into her pocket. “Now it’s mine.” She pulled the nightshirt from the chair where it lay and gave it a sniff, inhaling deeply Natalie’s scent. “And this too,” she said as she stuffed it into the pocket of her jacket. That alone would be enough to shake Natalie, but who would believe that anyone would break into a home and take only a souvenir T-shirt from the Caymans? A smile curved her lips as she spied the laundry basket in the corner. She took her time smelling each article of clothing.

She strolled into the bathroom still smiling and stared at herself in the mirror. Her eyes moved down to the toothbrush. She ran the pad of her thumb over the bristles, still wet. She chuckled as the thought occurred to her to lick it. No, she would wait and taste Natalie’s mouth for herself. She opened the bathroom drawer and noticed a bottle of Zoloft. “Depressed, are we, a little anxiety?” She looked at the date; the prescription was fresh. She opened it and shook all the pills except two into her palm and stuffed them into her pocket. “Let’s just see how anxious you get.”

She walked back into the living room with a glance at her watch. Natalie would probably be gone until after lunch, such a creature of habit. She took a seat in the recliner and propped her feet up. “This is what Natalie sees when she sits here.” When the windows were open, she would clearly be able to see the street from this chair. Noted.

Natalie pushed through the front door and dropped her keys on the entryway table along with her purse. The recliner called to her, but she had chores to do. Laundry needed to be done, and the dishes from the previous night’s dinner were in the dishwasher waiting to be put away. If she took only a moment to rest her feet, she had no doubt that she’d be in the chair for hours, then she’d suffer for her laziness. Her legs would be stiff and painful when she loosened them up again.

She turned on the stereo and popped in her favorite CD. Perhaps the upbeat club music would keep her on her toes. “Laundry first,” she said aloud as she made her way to the bedroom. She grabbed the clothes basket tucked away in the corner of her room, and her hand hit the chair. She stopped midstride when she felt the bare wood against her fingertips.

A voice in the back of her mind screamed out in warning, but she second-guessed herself and went into the bathroom. The shirt wasn’t there, either. Had she already taken it to the laundry room? she wondered as she went down the hall and through the kitchen. She lifted the lid on the washing machine and found it empty.

Natalie added her clothes, started the machine, and watched while the washer tub filled. She walked to the back door and looked at the deadbolt. It was still locked, and so was the front door when she came in. Maybe the shirt fell behind the chair. She went back toward her bedroom. Her stride slowed, her legs getting the signal before her brain did. This isn’t right, her mind said. She stopped and steadied herself with a hand on the wall. She had the same unsettling feeling that she’d had a few days earlier. She forced her feet to move and peeked around the wall into her bedroom. The closet door was closed, the bed made. Her eyes widened as she looked at the chair. There was nothing beneath or behind it.

Dishes and laundry forgotten, Natalie went through the house as fast as she could, her gaze darting back and forth as her skin crawled. She grabbed her keys and purse and limped to her car, her legs protesting the constant and quick movement.

“Forget somet— What’s wrong with you?” Andrea said as she came around the counter and grabbed Natalie by the shoulders. “What’s wrong, Natalie? Talk!”

On the drive to the store, part of Natalie’s mind protested the hasty retreat, declaring that she was overreacting. Her gut told her she had reason to be alarmed. “I’m not sure,” Natalie said, feeling terrified and foolish at the same time.

“Sit down, kid.” Andrea tugged her toward the sofa. Andrea literally sat on the edge of her seat, clutching her hand. “You’re pale. Are you hurt?”

“No, but I think I may be losing my mind.”

Andrea studied her face and exhaled a long breath. “What? Tell me what’s going on.”

Natalie recounted every strange finding from last week and that day. Even as she did, her mind and the tiny warning voice deep inside warred. She watched as Andrea relaxed and sank back onto the couch.

“My eyesight isn’t perfect, and since the accident, my hearing is not what it used to be, but my sense of smell has always been very strong. I know that sounds silly,” Natalie said with a nervous smile. “But that day in my closet, I swear I smelled a scent that didn’t belong.”

“Let’s go at this logically,” Andrea said. “Who would have a reason to go into your house?”

Natalie shrugged. “No one.”

“And let’s say someone did go in. Were there any signs of entry? A lock being jimmied? A broken window?”

Natalie pinched the bridge of her nose. “No, but you know how I am. You tease me about it all the time. I’m methodical. Everything has its place, and even if I failed to put my nightshirt where I normally do, it’s not anywhere in the house. I’ve looked.”

“Is it possible that you stripped it off and just climbed into bed without even putting on the shirt?”

That answer was simple. Karen slept naked and often outside of the blankets, but not her. She’d always been cold-natured. Without fail after they’d made love, she’d always at least put on a T-shirt. And the previous night, she remembered dressing for bed. She followed her regular routine—a quick shower, teeth brushed, moisturizer on, T-shirt on.

Natalie shook her head. “No, my Cayman T-shirt is my favorite. Karen bought it for me on the first vacation we ever took together. It’s well-worn and soft. I remember putting it on last night.”

“Well, sweetie, there’s a logical explanation for its disappearance, I’m sure.” Andrea ruffled Natalie’s hair when she released her hand. “You can come home with me tonight. I’ve got plenty of room.”

“I appreciate that,” Natalie said with a smile, but inside, she felt disheartened. To anyone else, the occurrences were no big deal, and she supposed they shouldn’t have been to her, either, but the niggling doubt could not be erased with all the assurances that Andrea had given her. “I’m not going to be run out of my home by this.”

“That’s the spirit.” Andrea watched Natalie as she stood. “The offer is there if you ever want to take advantage of it.”

Chapter Eight

As Natalie pulled into her driveway, she noticed Lyn sitting on her porch swing with a huge smile. “I was hoping you’d be home soon.” Lyn threw herself across the swing dramatically and draped an arm over her forehead. “I’m starving to death. I have nothing in my kitchen, and I swear I’ll fade away to nothing if you don’t go to dinner with me.”

“Run out of banana bread, did you?” Natalie sounded more upbeat than she felt. Lyn had no idea how relieved Natalie was to see her. Going into her house alone chilled her to the core.

Lyn sat up straight. “I hate grocery shopping, hate it. I try to think of things that I want to cook, but I get distracted on the candy aisle. I normally come home with nothing but sweets and chips.” She put a hand to her stomach. “I need sustenance. I need cow, maybe a chicken, too.”

Natalie looked at Lyn’s sweater. The collar of the shirt beneath was pressed. Her khaki pants were equally as neat. She looked down at herself and frowned at the wrinkled running pants and sweatshirt. “I’m a mess. Do you think you can wait on me to grab a quick shower?”

“I ate a walnut before I came over here. That should hold me for an hour, but I can’t promise that I won’t dig in your fridge while you’re in the shower.”

Natalie nodded. “Come inside. I shouldn’t be long.”

“You have any requests?” Lyn asked as she pulled out of Natalie’s driveway a while later. “Or would you like me to choose?”

“You pick.” Natalie looked back at her house lit up like a Christmas tree.

“There’s a new place in Central that has a little bit of everything and the best fried cheese you will ever put in your mouth.”

“I haven’t had fried cheese in ages. That sounds great.” Natalie looked over at Lyn. “How do you stay so fit eating sweets and fried cheese?”

“I eat salads for lunch, and I try to only indulge my sweet tooth on the weekend.” Lyn shrugged. “I keep busy, too, keeps my mind off of things.”

“Something troubling you?”

Lyn shrugged again. “I’m adjusting to being alone. Don’t get me wrong, things with Ellie were bad, but she was someone to curl up against at night.”

“I know what you mean.” Natalie looked out her window.

Lyn cleared her throat. “I’m sure you do.”

The conversation settled into an uncomfortable silence. “So what’re your hobbies besides baking banana bread?” Natalie asked, needing to hear about someone else’s life.

“I love to dance. I used to take salsa lessons before I met Ellie.” Lyn wiggled in her seat. “I could really shake my ass. Talk about a fat burner. Now that I’m free, I go out every now and then with friends and dance until I can’t move. You should come with me sometime.”

“I never was much of a dancer.” Natalie rubbed her legs in reflex. “If a little yard work took the wind out of my sails, I can only imagine what dancing would do to me.”

“Start off light. Maybe dance to a few slow songs, then a fast one or two. It’s great exercise.”

Natalie pursed her lips. “I’ll have to think about that one. I haven’t been out dancing since…well, you know.”

Lyn nodded as she pulled into the parking lot of the restaurant. “Let’s eat.”

After they’d ordered drinks and were perusing the menu, Natalie’s mind drifted, thankful that Lyn had invited her out. She’d hoped that dinner out with pleasant company would keep her mind occupied. Nevertheless, the thoughts came unbidden the moment her mind was allowed to wander.

“Natalie?”

Natalie looked over at Lyn when she touched her hand, then was surprised to see the waitress standing in front of her.

“Do want more time to look over the menu?” Lyn asked with a smile.

“No.” Natalie directed her attention to the waitress as she felt a flush cover her face. “I’ll take the blackened chicken salad with ranch dressing.”

Lyn rolled her eyes. “When you started off with ‘blackened,’ I thought it was going to be something good.” Lyn looked up at the waitress. “I’d like the fillet, medium with a stuffed baked potato, and I’ll have ranch on my salad, too. Oh, and an order of fried cheese to start us off.”

“You really are hungry,” Natalie said when the waitress left them.

“I’ve got a doggie bag in my future, but I’ll have it for dinner again tomorrow.” Lyn took a sip of her drink and looked at Natalie. “What were you thinking about just now? You had the strangest expression on your face.”

Natalie chewed the inside of her cheek debating whether Lyn would think she was crazy or not. “I’ve had…an interesting day.”

“Interesting bad or interesting good?” Lyn leaned up on her elbows and gave Natalie her full attention.

“I’m missing something that I’m fairly certain I haven’t misplaced.” Natalie took a sip of her drink and stared down at the table. Lyn looked confused as she caressed the back of her hand waiting for her to go on. “That didn’t make sense, did it?” Natalie went on without waiting for an answer. “It sounds silly, but it was a shirt Karen bought me. I sleep in it, and I can’t find it anywhere.”

“Could it be in the laundry?”

Natalie shook her head. “No, I checked. I wore it last night, and I know I draped it over the chair like I always do. It didn’t fall behind it.”  Natalie looked up at Lyn. “I think…someone has been in my house.”

Lyn’s fingers twitched. “What?”

Natalie shook her head. “It sounds stupid to say it aloud. There’s no sign of a break-in, and no one would really have a motive to come in and steal my nightshirt.” She forced a smile. “I’m not the type to lose things.”

“Wanna hear something creepy?”

“Not really,” Natalie said before taking a swallow of her drink.

Lyn laughed. “It’s not scary, really. When I first moved into the house, I found things rearranged every morning. I thought I was losing my mind, or someone was coming in during the night. I rechecked the locks on the doors and windows at least ten times before bed like I had OCD. I even slept with the lights on, but one morning, I woke up sitting at the kitchen table holding a can of peanuts.” Lyn grinned. “I’d been sleepwalking. I was the one to blame for all the weirdness.”

“Had you ever done it before?”

Lyn nodded. “When I was a kid, I did it all the time, especially right before a test at school. I was a straight-A student, and I had major test anxiety. I scared the shit out of my mother. She’d be watching TV, and I’d just go by like a zombie.” Lyn started drawing circles on the back of Natalie’s hand with her fingertips as she talked. “I think I was stressed about living alone, and I started sleepwalking again. So if you find me wandering in your front yard late at night, point me back toward my house.”

Natalie watched Lyn’s fingers dance over her skin. “Doesn’t that scare you? Aren’t you afraid that you’ll wander out into the road or something?”

“Not really. When I realized what I was doing, I started drinking tea before bed, you know the kind that relaxes you? Ever since then, I haven’t noticed anything rearranged.” Lyn pulled her hand away and took a sip of her drink.

Natalie sat staring at the table. Could she have been sleepwalking, too? That would explain away the nightshirt but not the rest. A salad and fried cheese being placed on the table pulled her from her thoughts.

Lyn went at her salad as though she hadn’t eaten in days. Natalie nibbled a cheese stick and smiled when Lyn came up for air. “You wanna use my fork, too? Might be able to eat it faster then.”

Lyn made a face and grabbed a cheese stick. “I told you I was starving. You better eat faster, or I’ll eat my way into your sticks, too.”  She settled back in her chair and looked at Natalie. “Are you afraid to be alone? You can stay with me.”

Natalie smiled. “Thanks for the offer, but I’m not going to allow this to run me out of my home.”

“I could stay with you then.” Lyn wiggled her eyebrows. “I like to cuddle.”

“So you wouldn’t agree to staying in the guest room?”

Lyn lifted her glass and peered over it. “Would you really want me to?”  She winked before putting her lips to it.

“I have to hand it to you,” Natalie said with a forced laugh. “You’re bold.”

“I have to be. It’s not easy for girls like us to meet women, so when I see one I find attractive, I go for it.”

“What do you mean—women like us?”

“I mean not butch. Anyone can look at Terry and know she’s gay, but we’re kind of on the femme side, not so easy to pick out.” Lyn shrugged. “I like going out to the bars and dancing, but since there’s only a couple of them in Baton Rouge, you tend to run into the same people. Besides that, there’s some real weirdos out there, and I’m not too comfortable giving my phone number to someone I just met.”

Natalie smiled ruefully. “I’d forgotten how dismal the dating scene could be. I’ve been out of the loop for a long time.”

“Nothing’s changed, trust me.” Lyn rolled her eyes. “It’s still filled with players and crazies. Decent women are out there, but they are few and far between.” Lyn paused as dinner was set on the table and their drinks were refreshed. She leaned forward and smiled at Natalie. “I’m not looking for marriage material, but I would like to spend time with someone who won’t latch on to me like I’m the last woman alive, or the flip, someone who climbs out of bed with someone and expects to be in mine a few hours later.”

As she picked at her salad, Natalie watched Lyn eat. The idea of having someone to curl up with and sleep in the circle of her arms was something she’d missed. What would occur before was the part she wasn’t entirely ready for. She wanted passion, but she also wanted a connection, body and soul. She thought of Karen then.

How long would it take for her to stop feeling like she was cheating when she thought of being with someone else? If she and Karen had broken up, it might’ve taken time, but she would have moved on. For it to end the way it did left her feeling like she had to break up with a woman she still loved to go on with her life.

“You’re quiet,” Lyn said later as they drove home.

“Just a lot on my mind, I guess.” Natalie ran a hand through her hair and watched the headlights of passing cars. “Sorry, I’m not always great company.”

Lyn reached over and took Natalie’s hand. “I’ll stay with you if you want, and I don’t mean in your bed. I know what it’s like to be afraid in my own home.”

Natalie had left on plenty of lights in her house, but the thought of going in alone after the events earlier in the day left her with an anxiety she couldn’t shake. She swallowed hard. “I like you, and you’re extremely attractive—”

“But you have bad breath, your feet stink.” Lyn laughed. “These things can be corrected.”

“That’s not what I was going to say,” Natalie said with a smile.

“I know. I was going for levity because your face is all tensed up. My breath does stink, though. There was a lot of garlic in that steak seasoning.”

“I’m just not ready for…intimacy yet. I’ve been pretty much on my own, and aside from Andrea, there hasn’t been anyone in my life.” She squeezed Lyn’s hand. “Being around you has been good for me, though. I’m thinking about things—needs I didn’t know I had.”

Lyn raised Natalie’s hand to her lips and kissed the back of her fingers. “I make a lot of jokes, and I will agree that I’m bold, as you put it, but I have no expectations—shit!” Lyn hit the brakes hard and jerked away from Natalie as she gripped the wheel with both hands.

Natalie grabbed the armrest with one hand, the other going to the side of her seat. Both of her legs pressed into the floorboard, expecting to feel a brake pedal that wasn’t there. She clamped her eyes closed as the headlights in their lane grew closer.

“Natalie! Let go. Look at me.”

The car wasn’t moving anymore, and someone was trying to wrench Natalie’s fingers from their death grip on the seat. She opened her eyes and stared at Lyn uncomprehendingly.

“We’re fine, he just surprised me.” Lyn pulled a hand free and squeezed it. With her other, she stroked the hair from Natalie’s forehead, flinching when her fingers grazed the scar beneath her bangs.

Natalie took a gasping breath and looked around. They were safely off the road in a parking lot.

“Do you have any recollection of your accident?” Lyn asked softly as she continued to stroke and soothe.

“No.” Her voice sounded like her throat was made of sandpaper.

“I think subconsciously you do. You probably don’t realize it, but you flinch when a car passes in the oncoming lanes.”

Natalie forced herself to relax her legs that had begun to throb from the tension. She took a deep breath and let it out slowly. “I’m sorry.”

“There’s nothing to be sorry for.” Lyn moved back, giving her some space. “It scared me, too. That guy should’ve never tried to pass that slower car. There wasn’t enough room. Fortunately, I noticed him in time and had a chance to brake.”

Natalie pulled her hand free and wrapped her arms around herself. “I don’t drive more than a few miles in town for this reason.”

Lyn gave her arm a squeeze, then pulled back onto the road. She blew out a long breath as she accelerated. “It’s amazing how the brain works, isn’t it? Suppressing traumatic memories. I think if all our minds were suddenly uncapped, the human race would cease to exist. We’d all melt down.”

Natalie leaned her head against the seat. Her body was still tense, but not ramrod straight like it was before. Lyn began telling some funny story from her childhood that Natalie was certain was meant to relax her, but her words were jammed together and unintelligible. Jagged images, memories of smells flashed through her mind. Headlights, screaming, the sound of steel crunching, glass breaking, and Karen’s arm thrown across her chest.

“Natalie?” Lyn’s hand was on her shoulder. “You’re home.”

Natalie nodded. A lump in her throat prevented her from speaking.

“I’m gonna come in with you and take a look around. If you want me to stay, I’ll stay.” She stepped back and opened Natalie’s door wider. Natalie blinked for a second. She wasn’t even aware that Lyn had already gotten out of the car. Lyn gently took her hand and led her to the front porch, walking slowly up the steps. Natalie’s hand shook as she guided the key into the lock.

“You sit down here.” Lyn guided her to the couch. Natalie heard water running in the kitchen and smiled weakly when Lyn handed her a glass. She went down the hallway and looked into the spare room, then she went into the bathroom and Natalie’s room next. She reappeared a minute or two later. “Everything looks fine.”

Natalie took a swallow of her water and found her voice. “Thank you.”

“Do you want me to stay?” Lyn asked. “I don’t mind.”

Natalie shook her head. “I’m fine, really.” All thoughts of strange occurrences faded into the recesses of her mind after the scare on the road. She needed to be alone, needed time to cope with memories that came sweeping in like the tide.

“I’m just next door. Call me anytime, it doesn’t matter how late it is. I’ll be here in an instant.”

Natalie stood on wobbly legs and hugged Lyn close. “Thank you again.” She watched from her window as Lyn walked to her car and drove next door.

Chapter Nine

“Another one of these.” She waved the beer bottle in front of the bartender’s face. The music was loud, the club small. She grimaced. I’m getting too old for this shit, she thought as she surveyed the crowd. Babies, all of them, probably just out of high school. To her right sat the older crowd bellied up to the bar, watching the bodies gyrate on the dance floor. Something in between, something without a pacifier, and something not wobbling around on a walker.

That “something” walked through the door. Dark hair, dark eyes as far as she could tell, neither butch, nor femme. Natalie Simmons, that’s who she would be tonight. Jeans, boots, a button-down shirt showing a hint of cleavage, perfect. She watched as her target roamed the bar, looking for someone, maybe? Late twenties probably, the face held an expression that she knew all too well—boredom.

They made eye contact. The newcomer smiled but kept her distance as she moved to the bar and ordered a drink. She pulled cash from her pocket while giving the older crowd a furtive glance. Apparently finding nothing of interest there, she took a sip of her drink and turned her attention to the dance floor.

“All of their bottles have nipples on them,” she said as she sidled up next to the stranger.

Dark eyes regarded her with a smile. She nodded. “Must be a cheap beer night, the perfect lure for the young.”

She thrust out her hand. “Coleen and you are?”

The newcomer grasped it lightly. “Miranda.”

“I’ve come in here a few times, but I’ve never seen you. Are you new to the area?”

Miranda’s eyes narrowed. “You didn’t look hard enough. I’ve seen you before, but you were always with someone else.”

“My mistake. If I’d seen you, I wouldn’t have settled for less.”

Miranda leaned in close. “You use that line a lot?”

Cocky bitch…I like it. “Only when it’s the truth.”

Miranda studied her face for a moment, then smiled. “I’m not looking for a commitment beyond tonight.” She held up her left hand. A golden band glinted in the dim light. “I have that. Does that bother you, Coleen?”

“It thrills me.” She motioned for the bartender and ordered two more drinks. “I take it your place is as crowded as mine?”

Miranda nodded as she finished off her first drink.

“Hotel then?”

“This is a record,” Miranda said as she was pushed roughly against the door. “Normally, I have to work a little harder.” She shrugged out of her shirt, then her bra.

“You’ll work hard.” She unfastened Miranda’s belt and dropped it to the floor. She kissed her hard before pushing away to remove her own clothes. “Lose the jeans but put the boots back on.”

“Coleen your real name?” Miranda slid her jeans and underwear down her thighs.

“It is tonight.” She tugged her shirt over her head and tossed it to the floor. Miranda was pulling her boots back on. Skinny, not as curvy as Natalie, she thought as she kicked her shoes off. Better be stronger than she looks. “I like it rough.”

“How rough?” Miranda asked as her stride to the bed faltered.

“You won’t bleed.”

“You might.” Miranda gave her a shove. She landed on the bed with her pants around her knees. “Interesting scar.” She ran her fingers over the numb skin below her ribs. “Get that on a night like this?” Miranda asked as she pulled away her jeans.

She rolled and pulled the covers back. “Wrong place at the wrong time.” Miranda lay on top of her, forcing her face into the pillow as she bit her none too gently beneath her right shoulder blade. She arched her back and ground her teeth. “I’m not a bottom.”

“Whatever,” Miranda said with a laugh.

She rolled forcefully, pitching Miranda nearly off the bed. Miranda seemed surprised as she straddled her hips and pinched her nipples hard. She watched as surprise gave way to lust. Miranda writhed beneath her as she pinched harder. She tried to envision Natalie biting her lip and moaning, but the image wasn’t coming. “Turn over,” she said as she lessened her weight.

Miranda’s eyes opened. “I don’t do it that way.”

She grinned down at her. “Whatever.” Before Miranda knew what was happening to her, she was facedown. She leaned down and put her mouth to her ear. “I’m not into the backdoor stuff if that’s what you’re afraid of.” She felt Miranda relax beneath her. “Get up on your knees and keep your head down.”

Miranda was wet as she ran her fingers between her legs. She entered her forcefully, smiling with satisfaction as Miranda groaned. She had Natalie now, moaning and pushing back, taking her deeper. She fucked her mercilessly until she sank down onto the bed in a heap. She fisted her hand in that dark shiny hair and wrenched Miranda’s head back. She kissed her roughly, biting her lower lip as she pulled away. “Back on your knees. I’m not finished with you yet.”

****

Natalie sat cross-legged on her bed with her back resting against the headboard. Her hair wet from her shower felt cool against her sweating neck. She stared at the wall, eyes open wide. Like a puzzle, she connected each flash of memory to make a picture. She was holding one of Karen’s hands; the other was on the wheel. Karen was laughing and talking. Natalie saw the light on Karen’s face grow brighter and Karen’s jaw go slack. Natalie felt Karen jerk her hand away, then slam it across her chest as she turned her head and saw the headlights right in front of them.

“Karen, are you here?” Her voice sounded shaky as it reverberated off the walls. “Are you hanging around watching over me?” She felt foolish. “You know I don’t believe in ghosts.”

Natalie closed her eyes. “I loved you with all I had, but I think we both know—knew it wasn’t enough.” Tears began to push at her closed lids. “I heard you talking to Emily on the phone once. You were planning to leave me. I wish I had been woman enough to confront you, and I wish you would have been honest enough to tell me.” She wiped at her eyes with her sleeve. “In the end, you did leave, just not quite the way you intended.”

Natalie took a shuddering breath. “And here I am feeling like a heel for having burgeoning sexual interests I haven’t had in such a long time. Why can’t I let you go?” The question echoed in her mind along with the answer. Guilt. Karen’s life was taken, hers spared.

“Emily, your best friend, kept your secret.” Natalie shook her head. “I think she thought she was doing me some sort of favor. I’m sure she didn’t want to add to my grief, but I think it would’ve helped to hear her say what you couldn’t—didn’t. So if you’re hanging around here out of some sort of guilt, then please don’t. Maybe I won’t feel as guilty, either.”

Natalie sank down into the bed and pulled the sheet over her body before switching off the light. “I forgive you,” she whispered into the darkness. “I hope you’ve forgiven me, too.”

Chapter Ten

Natalie watched from her living room window as a blue truck backed up the driveway. Terry climbed out and stretched before looking back at the house. A slight smile curved her lips as she spotted her. She waved, pulled out a toolbox, and made her way to the door.

“Good morning,” Natalie said. “Sure you want to do this?”

“Never go back on my word.” Terry set the box on the floor. “I enjoy the work.”

“Have you had breakfast? I can whip up just about anything,” Natalie offered.

Terry knelt down and pulled a pry bar from her toolbox. “I’m not much of a breakfast eater, but thanks.”

Natalie took a seat and watched Terry as she began to pry the wooden flooring. She worked in silence for about an hour with Natalie watching every move. Terry wasn’t the type of woman who would turn Natalie’s head if she passed her on the street. Karen with her athletic body was the closest thing to butch she’d ever been involved with, but even she wore makeup when they went out.

Terry was well muscled. Natalie could see the way the muscles in her back flexed beneath her T-shirt as she wrenched the boards loose. She figured that Terry’s wardrobe consisted of only jeans, cargo shorts, T-shirts, and maybe a few sweatshirts. Definitely not Natalie’s tastes, but she was drawn nevertheless to the way Terry looked at her.

“You look tired,” Natalie said suddenly without thinking. She winced. “I’m sorry. That sounded bad.”

Terry shrugged. “I went out with a few of my friends after work last night. I ended up staying a lot later than I planned.” She stuck her head beneath the remaining flooring and whistled. “I’m going to have to reinforce the joist before I lay the new flooring. That’s what’s causing the problem.”

“Do…I need to go to the hardware store? Harper’s may have what you need.”

Terry shook her head. “Harper’s has more feed and farming equipment. If I don’t have the right braces, Baton Rouge will probably be the next place to find them. I did a job like this recently and I have a lot of stuff left over.”

Natalie went silent. Terry looked up at her curiously.

“I don’t drive in Baton Rouge,” Natalie said as calmly as she could manage. The thought alone terrified her.

“Ever?”

Natalie looked down at her feet. “My car hasn’t seen speeds above forty-five in a long time. I doubt it’d make the trip.”

“I know you want to help, but if any supply runs have to be made, I’ll be the one to go. You’re welcome to ride along if you want.” Terry got to her feet. “More than likely, I have what I need in the truck.”

“Did your dad teach you how to do all of this?”

Terry put her hands on her hips and looked down at the floor. “Never had a dad, he left before I was born. Have plenty of half brothers and sisters, though. That was one thing my mother was really good at.”

“Are you close with any of them?”

Terry shook her head as she kicked at one of the floorboards. “They’re lazy and only show up when they want money. That’s one of the reasons I move so much.” She looked up at Natalie with a dark expression. “I have no use for laziness, but still, it’s kind of hard to say no when they come with their hard luck stories.”

“Your mom is still alive?”

“No, she passed away a few years ago.”

The tone of Terry’s voice when she answered made it clear to Natalie that she wasn’t interested in talking about her family anymore, so Natalie let the conversation drop.

Terry walked out the door without a word. Natalie watched as she climbed into the back of her truck and dug around in the large toolbox. She came back in with what looked like steel braces. “No need to go to the store. I have what we need.”

“Do you need me to help?” Natalie asked, wondering what assistance she could offer.

“No, I’ll jack up the joist, then brace it.” Terry looked at her apologetically. “I’m going to have to get under the house, and when I come out, I’ll be filthy.”

“Don’t worry about dirtying anything in here. I have no problem cleaning.”

“No, you don’t,” Terry said. “This house is spotless.”

“Well,” Natalie said as she stood. “That’s one thing I can still do very well. Will you need me to hand you anything once you get down there?”

“Yes.” Terry nodded. “It’d be less messy and much easier if you could hand me a few things.”

“Would you like something to drink before you start?”

“Water would be great, thank you.” Terry walked back out without a word, and Natalie watched as she pulled a jack from her truck.

“You work on cars, too?” she asked when Terry returned.

Terry looked at the jack in her hands. “I rotate my own tires and I change my oil, but that’s as much as I’ll do on a vehicle. I leave the rest to those that know what they’re doing.”

Natalie went into the kitchen to fetch the water. When she returned, Terry had already lowered the jack beneath the floor and sat with her feet dangling in the hole. Their eyes met as she passed the glass into her hands. Terry had a way of looking at her as though she knew every secret she ever held. Terry broke the stare first and drank the entire glass before handing it back to Natalie with a nod. “Ready when you are.”

When Natalie returned from putting the glass away, Terry was beneath the house, shoving the jack into place with her feet. When she had it in position, she began cranking it with a grunt. When she’d finished, her eyes met Natalie’s again. “Know what a level looks like?”

Natalie picked it up and waved it with a smile.

“Good, know how to read one?”

“When the bubble is perfectly in between the lines, it should be level, right?”

Terry pointed. “Lay it on the joist there and tell me if it’s level.”

Natalie did as she asked. “The bubble isn’t in the center. It’s leaning more to the stick on the right.”

Terry cranked the jack a couple more turns, then looked up at Natalie. “Try it now.”

Natalie did as instructed and nodded. “It’s in the middle.”

“I have the braces and screws. All I need you to do is plug the extension cord attached to my drill into an outlet, then hand it to me.”

“What else do you need?” Natalie asked a minute later as she handed the drill to Terry.

“I think I have everything now.” She scooted across the ground with the drill lying on her stomach, then looked up at Natalie. “You don’t need to watch unless you want to.”

Natalie took that as her cue to leave and went back to her chair. She switched on the TV that was immediately drowned out by Terry’s drill. When it grew quiet again, she went back to the hole and peered down at Terry. “Can I ask your advice about something?”

“Sure,” Terry said, looking back up at her.

“I’m thinking about getting a home alarm system, but I don’t know much about them. How do they work? I mean, if I had one, could I turn motion sensors on in different parts of the house when I’m here at night?”

Terry handed the drill up to her and a box of screws. “Sure you could. You could put a keypad in your bedroom and turn the sensors on in the living room and kitchen and anywhere else you wanted them.” Terry’s head poked up out of the hole and Natalie offered her a hand. “Nowadays, the sensors are high-tech. They recognize your body heat, so you can keep them on when you’re inside.” Terry held up a dirt-covered palm. “You don’t want me touching you with this. Just step back and I’ll hoist myself up.”

“I don’t mind a little dirt.”

An odd expression flittered across Terry’s face. “I don’t want to be the cause of your pain.” Her gaze drifted to Natalie’s right hand and rested on the scars there.

Out of reflex, Natalie tucked her hand behind her back.

“Don’t do that.” A dirty hand came to rest atop Natalie’s good hand. “Don’t hide it from me. I saw the scars at the store, then again the other night at dinner. You’re self-conscious of it because that’s all you see, scars.” Terry looked shy for a second. “Now that I know you, I see them as the mark of a survivor, someone who beat the odds.”

Natalie timidly set her hand on her lap and looked at it. Pale pink lines crisscrossed her fingers and two large ones ran up the back of her hand past her wrist. “It’s stupid to be so vain,” she said, looking at them. She looked back at Terry. “I don’t want anyone feeling sorry for me. Grab it, it won’t hurt me.”

Terry took her hand into her own and looked at it, tracing her fingertips across the lines before she gripped it firmly. She came up effortlessly when Natalie pulled, but Natalie knew it wasn’t from her assistance. Terry used her other hand to bear her weight, gently holding Natalie’s as she rose.

“If we’re going to be friends, you can’t treat me with kid gloves,” Natalie said with a firm grasp on Terry’s hand. “I’m not one to take the easy way out, and I won’t allow you or anyone else to do it for me, either.”

Terry nodded and increased the firmness of her grip and shook Natalie’s hand. “Agreed.”

“Let’s go wash up,” Natalie said when she released her.

“Would you grab my clothes since you’re the cleaner of us?” Terry asked with a slight smile and nodded to the pair of shorts and T-shirt that lay across her toolbox.

Natalie scooped them up and went down the hall to the bathroom with Terry behind her. “If you don’t mind, I’ll wash my hands first, then you can have your privacy.”

“Sure,” Terry said as she looked up at the ceiling.

Natalie followed her gaze as she washed. “I had the roof replaced before I moved in. The old one leaked and stained the ceiling of the spare bedroom, too. I was going to paint it myself, but I got lazy after I painted all the walls.”

Terry moved to the sink as Natalie dried her hands. “You’re going to have to use a good primer before you do, or that stain will bleed through.”

Natalie stepped into the hallway and watched as Terry scrubbed her hands and arms. “I’d forgotten that you’re a painter, too. After my speech, I feel a little foolish about asking you if you want to undertake that project.”

Terry graced her with a smile. “Everybody hates painting ceilings. It’s a messy job at best.”

“I’d really like you to do it, but this time, I want to pay you more than the cost of materials. This is something I’ve already considered hiring someone to do.”

Terry dried her hands and put one on the door handle. “Let me get changed, and I’ll give you a quote.” She closed the door between them.

“I assume you’d want me to paint the entire ceiling, not just the stained part,” Terry said a few minutes later as she surveyed the spare room.

Natalie nodded. “Give me a quote on this room and the bathroom, then I’d like a separate quote on the entire house.”

“Can I ask you a personal question?” Terry stuffed her hands in the back pockets of her shorts and kept her eyes on the ceiling.

“Since I had the money, why didn’t I just buy a new house so I wouldn’t have to deal with all these issues?”

Terry’s eyes met hers. “Exactly.”

“I think I felt kind of guilty for cashing in on a horrendous incident at first. I sued the insurance company and the Kellys personally. They fought me in hopes that I’d back down. Karen had had one drink when we had dinner that night. They tried to say she was equally at fault, but she’d had that drink five hours before the accident. Her blood-alcohol limit didn’t even register.”

Natalie stepped out of the room and Terry followed. “We had just left a club after a night of dancing, and I think they wanted to make us look like partiers. They even brought up Karen’s only DUI she got back in college. It made an impression on her and her limit was only one drink, but that never stopped the boy Keith Kelly who hit us, or we wouldn’t be having this conversation right now. The jury seemed to share the same opinion and went in my favor.”

“Where’s Keith Kelly now? In jail?”

“No,” Natalie said as they walked into the kitchen. “He’s already out and no doubt behind the wheel of a car again.” Bitterness edged Natalie’s voice as she filled two glasses with ice water. “His parents and their lawyer pulled all the strings they could. He served some time but certainly not as much as you or I would’ve.”

“I’m glad you won,” Terry said. “But I’m sure you’d rather be penniless with Karen still in your life.”

“Yeah.” Natalie took a long swallow of her drink.

Chapter Eleven

“A hundred bucks plus the paint,” Terry said suddenly as she laid the flooring.

“How much for the whole house?” Natalie asked.

“That’s it for everything.”

Natalie laughed. “That’s cheap for just covering the stains. Now really, what’s your price?”

Terry stopped what she was doing and wiped the sweat from her brow on her sleeve. “Look, I make good money at my regular job. I don’t need the extra work, but I do it because I love it and because I can’t sit still to save my life. Odd jobs are easy to come by, but pleasant company is not.”

She picked up another floorboard and looked at it. Her voice was low when she spoke. “I don’t make friends easily. It comes from the way I was raised. Parents didn’t want their kids playing with me because my family was nothing but trouble.”

Natalie opened her mouth to speak, but Terry shook her head.

“We were. Always dressed in stuff that even the Salvation Army didn’t want. No parental supervision. We came and went as we pleased, did what we wanted. My brothers and sisters are just as reckless as the boy that took Karen away from you. If it hadn’t been for an elderly neighbor that took pity on me and kept me from the streets by teaching me to do the things I do, I could’ve been the one in the other car that night.”

“So you feel that you’re paying karma back for the chance you got by doing kind things for me?”

“No.” Terry looked around at Natalie’s things. “We met for a reason. We’re worlds apart, so different.” She looked back at Natalie with her burning gaze. “You were kind to me the minute we met. You invited me into your home without judgment. I’ll be a friend to you come what may, and I don’t charge my friends for the work I do.”

“I’m sorry about your childho—”

“Don’t pity me and I won’t pity you,” Terry said without a hint of a smile.

Natalie blinked at the interruption. “Well…I guess I’ll have to feed you for the rest of your life because that’s what I do for my friends.”

Terry raised an eyebrow. “Agreed, so why are you considering an alarm system? Have you had problems?”

Natalie was taken aback by the sudden change in conversation and almost blurted out what she’d been experiencing. “I think it’s wise for someone who lives alone.”

Terry nodded and went back to work on the flooring. “Do you keep a gun in the house?”

“No, I’ve never even held one. I’d probably end up shooting myself. Do you own a gun?”

Terry nodded. “That’s another thing Mr. Roundtree taught me.” She looked up from her work at Natalie. “He was the neighbor I told you about. He was a retired cop, and when I was an adult, he taught me how to shoot. He said he would never be without a weapon after the things he saw on the job. They can outlaw guns, and decent people won’t break the law and get one, but people who already kill with them will keep on killing with them.”

“But when you hear the news, people who have shot up their workplaces bought their guns just like a ‘decent’ person would,” Natalie argued.

“Those intent on killing will get their hands on weapons whether we outlaw them or not. I’m not saying pack a handgun in your purse, but if you’re alone in here one night and someone comes in, what will you defend yourself with?”

“I’d call 911 before I’d use a gun.”

Terry stopped what she was doing and looked at Natalie pointedly. “When Mr. Roundtree was an officer, they were told to roll code one to calls where people were reported to be skulking around the outside of someone’s home. Code one means the officer can stop to write up a traffic accident, it’s not an emergency. If someone is brazen enough to stand looking in your windows, they’re not out there just to say hello. Getting the alarm is a good first step, but if I were you, I’d get a gun and learn how to use it.”

“And you’ll teach me how?” Natalie asked.

Terry shook her head. “I’ll target practice with you. Clyde set me up with a really nice target with a cement pad behind it. But if you decide on getting a weapon, you should take a course. Let professionals teach you how to use it. There’s a lot more involved than just pulling the trigger.”

Natalie chewed on that for a minute. “Could you shoot someone that came into your home with what you perceived was malicious intent?”

Terry’s gaze was unwavering. “Without a shadow of a doubt.”

“Whoa! This looks fantastic.” Lyn stood at the threshold of Natalie’s front door. “Do you do windows, too?” Natalie and Terry jumped at the interruption.

“Yes,” Terry said without looking up from the stain job she was doing on the floor.

“How was work?” Natalie asked with a smile, hoping to distill some of the tension that Lyn’s quip had stirred.

“Busy, busy,” Lyn said with a beaming smile. “I was on my feet all day.”

“Then I imagine you’ll want to get home and prop them up.” Terry didn’t look up from her work, but Natalie could see the hint of a smile on her profile.

Lyn ignored her and kept the smile on her face. “I won two tickets to see Night Ranger. They’re playing at a club in Baton Rouge Friday night. Would you like to join me?”

“I have no idea who that is,” Natalie said with a laugh.

Terry leaned back on her heels and looked at Natalie. “They’re a rock band. They had a couple of hits in the eighties. ‘Sister Christian,’ don’t you remember that one?”

Natalie shook her head. “If you would’ve said The Cure, I would know what you’re talking about. Rock wasn’t really my thing.” She pointed between Terry and Lyn. “You two should go.”

“I have plans,” Terry said quickly.

“A date?” Lyn asked a bit too snidely for Natalie’s comfort.

“Yes,” Terry said. “I can bring her by before we go to dinner to see if she meets with your approval.” She shot a glance at Lyn. “And she’s not a blowup doll if that’s what you’re going to say next.”

Lyn rolled her eyes and looked back at Natalie. “They’re not heavy metal. I think you’d enjoy them.”

“I appreciate the invitation, but I’d be a wet blanket. My concert days are long since passed,” Natalie said apologetically.

Lyn kept her smile intact and nodded, but Natalie noticed how for a second her eyes narrowed when she glanced at Terry, who was busy with the stain. “Well, the next time I hear about The Cure coming to town, I’ll see if I can score some tickets for them. Good night,” she said cheerfully and scampered off.

“I think you may’ve disappointed her.” Terry looked at Natalie. Something in her eyes conveyed that she enjoyed it.

Chapter Twelve

It was humid and hot, and she hated both. Natalie’s house was stifling. The recliner where she sat felt hot against her back. She’d watched the old woman pick Natalie up, then she’d let herself in. She’d laughed as she took the T-shirt that lay across the chair and replaced it with the Cayman shirt.

“What to do, what to do?” She slapped her hands against the armrests. A smiled curved her lips as she stood and went into the bathroom. She licked her index finger and began writing on the mirror. After she left her message, she went back to the kitchen and opened the fridge. Smiling as she grabbed the juice, she popped the top and drank directly from the carton.

The drawer that held the cutlery was neatly arranged as she knew it would be. She grabbed a few of the forks and put them in with the knives. She took out one spoon and set it on the counter. “Boring,” she sang out. She opened every drawer and cabinet and stared at the contents. A bottle of white vinegar caught her eye. A cup full in the juice would definitely be an eye-opener. She wished she could see Natalie’s face when she took that first swallow.

“She has two junk drawers.” The first was filled with typical items—screwdrivers, pens, paper, candles. The second was better. Photographs of Natalie with the old woman, a few of her and Karen, bills…Intellix paid in full two days after the disconnect. Hmm. She picked up another bill from AT&T. “Cutting back on expenses? Lying bitch.” She slammed the bill onto the counter and dug deeper into the drawer. “Ah, the old cable bill. Sure would suck to have that turned off.” She picked up a notebook, thumbed through the pages, and howled with delight. “Jackpot!”

She grabbed the phone and dialed. After hitting a few prompts, she was connected with an operator. “I’d like to disconnect my cable, please.” She rattled off the account number and verified the address. “Yes, my PIN is B78542. When can I expect to have it disconnected?”

She replaced the phone on the charger with a laugh when the deed was done. Yes, it was the perfect day to go to the fair.

****

“Terry said she would come.” Andrea looked around at the crowd. “She’ll be here.”

The heat had sent Andrea and Natalie looking for shade, and they found it under a tarpaulin that Clyde Bordelon had erected for family and friends. They sat off in a corner enjoying the breeze from a fan that someone had the forethought to bring.

“This is nice,” Natalie said as she watched children scramble for the rides.

Andrea nodded. “Do it every year. Reminds me of the fairs I used to go to as a girl. Lived in a small town then, too. Only thing missing is a kissing booth.” Andrea grinned. “Maybe you could sign up for that next year.”

“Hell no,” Natalie said softly. “There’s nothing around here I want to kiss.”

“That’s because Terry’s not here yet.”

Natalie rolled her eyes and looked into the crowd, hoping to see Lyn and Terry. Lyn’s car wasn’t in the driveway when Andrea picked her up. Natalie figured she would at least show since she seemed enthusiastic when Andrea had mentioned the fair.

“It’s an all-day event. They’re probably not in a hurry to get here,” Andrea said as if reading her mind.

“Why did we come so early then?”

“Parking,” Andrea said. “By now, there’s not a parking place within a mile of here.” She stood slowly. “You want a cherry lemonade?”

Natalie held up the large sweet tea she’d purchased when they arrived. “I’m still full here. Want me to go get it?”

“Nah, I gotta stretch my stems, get stiff if I don’t. Stay here and keep our seats.”

“Andrea, you—”

“I’m getting the sugar-free kind, you little shit, you don’t have to say it,” Andrea said with a grin.

Natalie watched as Andrea hobbled away. She’d barely gotten halfway to the stand when she spotted someone she knew. Thankful that she wasn’t thirsty and counting on Andrea to return soon, Natalie smiled as she watched her.

“You must be having a good time.”

Natalie turned toward the voice and smiled up at Terry. “You decided to join us after all.”

“I didn’t want to risk Andrea’s wrath. She made it clear on the ride home the other night that I was expected to be here.”

“Glad you came.” Natalie patted the seat next to her. “Sit down and help me save Andrea’s spot.” She gazed at a small stain on Terry’s shirt as she sat. “I see you’ve already been trying out the fair food.”

Terry looked where Natalie was pointing and groaned. “I must’ve spilled my juice on it.” She looked embarrassed. “I would’ve changed had I known.”

“Don’t feel bad.” Natalie pointed to a skinny man standing just outside of the tarp. “I watched Clyde drop a corn dog covered with mustard down the front of his shirt earlier. It’s been the only excitement so far.”

“Have you ridden any rides yet?” Terry asked.

Natalie shook her head. “No, but I’ve been watching the kids throw darts at those balloons for a while.” She pointed to a booth adjacent to where they were sitting. “When Andrea gets back, I may take a crack at that.”

Terry looked back at her with a smile that quickly dissolved. “I see that Lyn has made it.”

Natalie turned and watched as Lyn walked briskly toward them. Her face was tense as she walked with her arms folded across her chest. “Hey, something wrong?” Natalie asked when Lyn got close.

“Ellie’s here.” Lyn looked over her shoulder for a second, then back at Natalie. “My nutty ex. Hey, Terry,” she said without a smile.

“Where is she? Point her out.” Natalie scanned the crowd.

“I don’t see her right now.” Lyn looked back over her shoulder. “I slipped past her and her new girlfriend without her seeing me.”

“Take a seat,” Terry said as she stood.

Lyn sat with a mumbled “thank you.” She looked nervous as her gaze darted over everyone who passed. “This isn’t her kind of thing, and she doesn’t live remotely close to this area. I think she showed up to see if I was here and to try to piss me off.”

“Then don’t let her,” Terry said simply.

Lyn narrowed her eyes and glanced at Terry.

“I’m glad you could make it,” Natalie said. “We’ll have a good time and forget her.”

“Well, the gang’s all here.” Everyone turned and looked at Andrea as she walked up. Natalie vacated her seat and motioned for Andrea to sit down. “Good to see ya, Lyn.” Andrea patted her on the knee. “And you, Terry.” She winked when Terry smiled. “They’re gonna start up the bingo in a little while. Any takers?” She looked at all of them. “Cash pot.”

“Natalie’s gonna pop some balloons.” Terry pointed at the booth.

Andrea waved her hand. “Those darts are duller than Clyde over there, but give it a try anyway.”

“You don’t mind if I don’t play bingo with you?” Natalie asked, feeling bad about leaving Andrea alone.

“Hell no. Me and Clyde’s wife, Sandra, have a system. You don’t stand a chance against the two of us anyway.”

“We’ll roam around then and catch up with you later,” Natalie said.

“Go, go have fun.” Andrea waved her arms.

Natalie walked over to the booth with Lyn and Terry. “Two dollars for three darts, ma’am,” a boy said as they approached. They all fished money out of their pockets and laid it on the counter to have it picked up and replaced with the darts.

“Whoever pops the least amount of balloons buys the first round of corn dogs,” Natalie said.

“Forget corn dogs, buy the first round of beer.” Lyn stepped up first and tossed a dart. It bounced off the balloon and landed at the attendant’s feet.

“Throw hard,” Terry whispered in Natalie’s ear as Lyn took her next two shots. Both sank deeply into the board beside the balloons.

Natalie went next and popped one on the first try. She heard Lyn say, “shit,” under her breath behind her. Her second throw burst another, but the third missed the target by a hair.

“It’s all yours, Terry.” Natalie stepped back. “No pressure.” Terry grinned at her as she stepped up to the booth. She hurled the first two darts in rapid succession, popping two balloons. “Show-off.” Natalie gave her a playful shove. Terry threw her last dart and bowed when the balloon popped. For her efforts, she was rewarded with a two-inch bear, which she gave to Natalie.

“Do that again,” the attendant said, “and you can trade up to a larger prize.”

“How many times do I have to trade up before I get one of those?” Terry pointed above her head to the large stuffed animals.

“Four rounds, but you have to break all the balloons in each throw.”

Terry turned to Natalie. “See anything up there you want?”

Natalie replied with a smile, “You think your luck will hold that long?”

“Let’s find out.” Terry tossed two more dollars on the table and picked up her darts. The first throw popped a balloon, but she missed with the second.

“You suck, Miss Terry.” The three of them turned and looked at the blond boy who Natalie now knew as Moose. He was grinning ear to ear as he stood proudly with a stuffed moose nearly as tall as he was. “Gotta have the eye,” he said before he grabbed his prize and wove his way through the crowd.

On the next game, they sprayed water into a clown’s mouth as race cars sped across the board. Lyn claimed victory on that game and gave Natalie her prize. Natalie wasn’t sure if they were trying to impress her with the gifts or if they simply didn’t want to have to carry them. She enjoyed the companionship and the attention. It had been a long time since she’d done anything like this, and despite an occasional sliver of pain in her legs, she felt great.

“Have you seen your ex again?” she asked Lyn, who walked along beside her.

“No, I haven’t. Like I said, this isn’t really her kind of thing. She probably did a cursory walk-through and left.”

Terry had obviously spied something that caught her interest. She was ahead of them walking faster. Natalie and Lyn followed as she veered off the main walk and crossed behind the Scrambler. They watched as she reached into her pocket and pulled out a few bills. As Natalie and Lyn caught up with her, an attendant was explaining the game.

“With the hammer, you hit the red post. The force of your hit will send the block climbing. If you ring the bell, you get a prize.” He demonstrated once and the bell rang loudly.

Natalie pointed to a New Orleans Saints sweatshirt. “How many times do you have to ring the bell to get one of those?”

The attendant scratched at the stubble on his chin and smiled. “Only once, but it’s not as easy as it looks.”

Terry rubbed her hands together and took the large mallet. She looked like she was about to tee off at a golf course as she judged the weight. She inhaled deeply as she lifted it above her head and exhaled as she smashed the red post. The block climbed halfway up the slide and fell. “Whew,” Terry said. Her next two tries fared better but failed to ring the bell.

“I’d like to try.” Lyn handed the attendant her money. Terry looked at her like she didn’t stand a chance but handed her the mallet.

Lyn with her capri pants, white Keds, and three-quarter-sleeved button-down shirt looked awkward as she adjusted to the weight of the mallet. Her first swing barely moved the block. She looked over her shoulder and locked gazes with Terry, who wore a smirk. She looked then at Natalie and winked. Her next swing was full force. Using every inch of her body, she slammed the mallet into the red post. Though the bell didn’t clang loudly, it did ring. She looked back at Natalie, who stood stunned. “What size do you want?”

“Oh, no, honey, you earned that shirt, it’s yours,” Natalie said with a shake of her head.

Lyn cocked her head to the side as her gaze slowly moved over Natalie’s body. “I’ll take a medium in black please.”

When the attendant handed her the prize, she sauntered over to where Natalie and Terry stood. “All my pleasure.” She handed Natalie the shirt.

“Thanks, Lyn.” Natalie took it and draped it over her shoulder.

Terry shook her head and smiled. “I have to hand it to you, Lyn, that was impressive.”

Lyn looked at her with a cocky smile. “Don’t let my girlie exterior fool you. There’s a lot more to me than meets the eye.”

“Duly noted,” Terry said with a hint of challenge in her voice.

Natalie watched as the two stared at each other. The tension made her uncomfortable. “Who’s up for baseball? It’s about time I win a game or two.”

More cash was doled out as they stood at the booth. Two bucks apiece gave them three chances to topple a few ceramic-looking containers. Natalie held back as Terry and Lyn threw their first balls. Terry managed to hit the bottom right corner of one of the containers, but it didn’t budge. If she were to have any luck, she’d have to nail them right in the middle. Lyn took two more throws and missed, as did Terry. Natalie’s first ball nicked the outside, the second missed the target altogether, but the third hit squarely in the middle and knocked away the containers.

She accepted her prize, a Bugs Bunny keychain, and handed it to Terry. Then she placed two more dollars on the counter and won a small bear also on a keychain and handed it to Lyn. “I was the pitcher in all the games when I was a kid,” she said with a shrug.

“Yeah? Well, let’s see how good you are at shooting hoops.” Lyn’s grin was huge. “I’ll mop the floor with you both,” and she did. Lyn got all three balls into the basket and traded up for a larger prize on the second time. She squeezed the fat black cat she had won. “This will be for Andrea. Now let’s go eat some fair food. I owe you both a round of beers, and I want a hot dog.”

A warm afternoon faded into a cool clear evening, stars twinkled overhead as Natalie and the others waited for the fireworks display to begin. The cool grass felt good against Natalie’s legs, which ached from all the walking she did that day. Andrea was filling Lyn in on who was who in the community while Terry sat cross-legged with a funnel cake in her lap. She nibbled it as she watched people mill about. The perfect ending to a lovely day, Natalie thought to herself.

She had needed the year she spent alone except for Andrea’s company to recuperate emotionally and physically. And now, she realized that she needed the influence of others to complete the healing process. To listen to Lyn talk about her ex and Terry talk about her family was therapeutic. She had shunned the advice to join groups where others were coping with loss like her own, feeling that no one could really understand or relate to her pain. Natalie shook her head as she realized how narrow-minded she’d been. Not only could she have received consolation, she could have offered it to someone else. She was beginning to understand that was where true healing began. Though Terry and Lyn had not experienced the loss of a partner in the way she had, they had suffered loss, and it affected them just the same. The revelation was humbling and filled her with a sense of gratitude.

An explosion of sound and light called her attention to the air. Red, white, and blue shards of light split the darkened sky. Natalie looked at her friends as they watched the display. The light reflected on their faces as they reveled in the pure joy of the moment. She smiled. The celebration might have been for the closing of a long hot summer, but for her, it was a new beginning.

Chapter Thirteen

“Thanks for the ride home,” Natalie said when Lyn pulled into her driveway. “I know Andrea appreciated it. She looked exhausted.”

“My pleasure.” Lyn opened her door and started to get out when Natalie put a hand to her arm and stopped her.

“You don’t have to walk me to the door. I’ll be fine.”

“You sure? You were kind of rattled the other night when we went to dinner. I don’t mind taking a look around for you.”

Natalie shook her head. “I’m fine, I overreacted. It’s…just me being stupid.”

Lyn’s expression grew serious. “You’re not stupid.”

Natalie’s hand moved to Lyn’s, and she gave it a squeeze. “Thanks.” She climbed out of the car. “Good night.”

Lyn kept her headlights on the front door. After Natalie stepped inside, she left. Natalie watched through the window as Lyn pulled into her own driveway. When her porch light went on, Natalie sighed and headed for her bedroom. She’d take a quick shower and then— Natalie stopped in midstride as she noticed the shirt lying over the back of the chair. “What the…” she said aloud, then put a hand to her mouth.

Slowly, she walked over to it and ran her hand over the worn cotton. She felt a rush of heat cover her skin as chills ran down her spine. Her hands shook slightly as she picked it up. “I’m losing my mind.” Her brain began frantically searching for a reasonable explanation. She’d long stopped taking all the medication she’d been prescribed after the accident, but even then, she was never delusional, or so she thought. Could this be some residual effect? What had she worn the night before? Her brain scrambled to formulate an answer as she peered into the laundry basket. It was empty except for a pair of underwear and socks.

Briskly, she walked through the house switching on all the lights. The front door had been locked when she came in, she thought as she looked at the back door. The deadbolt was securely in place. As she turned, she noticed the spoon sitting on the counter. Natalie’s eyes narrowed as she thought back to the morning. She’d had coffee, breakfast, then loaded the dishes in the washer. Picking the spoon up, she turned it in her hand. She could’ve missed it, but… Natalie shook her head. It was all so strange.

She’d taken ibuprofen the night before. Maybe that was the cause. Perhaps after all this time, her body chemistry was changing, making her react to the pain reliever. Exhaling loudly, she put the spoon in the dishwasher and went back to her bedroom. She pulled out a fresh T-shirt and underwear, and tossed the Cayman shirt into the laundry basket. Ibuprofen doesn’t make you hallucinate…does it?

“Get a grip, Natalie,” she said as she walked into the bathroom. After she turned on the water for the shower, she hesitated before stripping off her clothes. A creeping sensation washed over her and caused her skin to crawl. Regardless of her hypothesis, she felt violated. The energy of her home was all wrong. The bathroom door clanged loudly as she shut and locked it.

As she showered, she could not resist the urge to look around the curtain to assure she was alone. The water was hot but did little to wash away the goose bumps that rose up all over her body. She wasted no time with the washing and got out quickly. She was eager to hang on to the theory about the pain reliever, but a small voice in the back of her mind called out in warning. Her teeth chattered as she opened the drawer and took out her comb. “No, damn it. I am not crazy.” She opened the drawer again, pulled out the ibuprofen, and tossed it into the trash. “Tomorrow, I’ll get some extra strength—” The air rushed out of her lungs in a groan. Condensation covered the bathroom mirror. Faint and small, she saw it scrawled there—I see.

Like tender twigs snapping underfoot, she felt her sanity break. Anger, confusion, and a fear she felt so acute that her body ached with it. Like a madwoman, she scrubbed the words away with her bath towel. “Is it you, Karen?” she screamed. “You’ve waited until I finally found some semblance of happiness to tear me down, to exact your revenge?” She pounded her fists on the counter. “I’ve forgiven you!” Natalie sank back against the wall, heaving. “Do you hate me that much?” she asked with the last bit of fight she had left.

She stared at her reflection in the mirror. She was naked, her hair wet and clinging to a tear-streaked face. If Karen were watching her now, surely she could see that she had gotten the desired effect—a miserable woman driven to the brink of insanity.

Andrea’s old Altima felt like it was going to break apart as she pushed it as hard as she dared. Three miles felt like three hundred as she raced to Natalie’s house. Her chest had felt tight since the second she heard Natalie’s voice on the phone. The young woman had cried on her shoulder, had at times screamed in rage, but until that morning, she’d never heard such…abject misery. Andrea fought the wheel as she turned onto Natalie’s street much faster than she should have. What had happened since last night when Natalie was laughing and enjoying herself?

Natalie’s hair was a tangled mess as she opened the door. She looked at her with red-rimmed eyes accented by dark circles. Andrea wrapped her arms around Natalie’s shaking body. “What happened, honey?” Natalie mumbled something into her shoulder. Andrea pushed her back, keeping a hold on her shoulders. “What?”

“I slept on the bathroom floor.” Natalie’s eyes were downcast, her face expressionless.

Andrea gently led her to the couch and pushed her down. “Are you sick?”

Natalie pulled a prescription bottle from the pocket of her robe and handed it to Andrea. “Look at the date on this.”

“Zoloft.” Andrea unscrewed the top and noticed two pills. She looked back at Natalie with her brow raised.

“That prescription is a little over a week old.”

Andrea’s jaw sagged. “Did you take all of these…at one time?”

Natalie looked at her blankly. “I haven’t taken any.”

“Then where are the rest?”

“I don’t know.”

Andrea struggled to contain her panic. “You’re not making any sense.”

“The bottle was full the other day, and now there are only two pills left.” Natalie let her hands fall in into her lap. “I got it refilled, but I decided I didn’t need them anymore, so I didn’t take them.” Her hand shook as she pointed to the bottle. “And now, they’re all gone.”

Andrea set the bottle on the table. “What’s going on with you? What happened since last night?”

“I think I’m going crazy,” Natalie said in a whisper. “Either that or I’m…I…”

“What?” Andrea pressed. “What?”

Natalie looked up at her with dull expressionless eyes. “Haunted.”

Andrea softened her tone and took Natalie’s hand in hers. “Why do you say that?”

“The Cayman shirt.” Natalie licked her lips. “The one I was missing is back. I found it hanging on the chair in my bedroom when I came home last night. I took…a shower last night, and in the steam on the mirror were…words.”

Andrea cocked her head, waiting for Natalie to continue.

“They said, I see. I didn’t write them, but they were there, and I didn’t take those pills, but they’re gone. Someone or something is in this house with me.” Natalie shook her head. “I feel it.”

“What else, baby?” Andrea asked as an opinion began to form in her head.

“Things out of place. A feeling of being watched.”

“What other medications have you been taking?”

“Only ibuprofen. But I threw it away because I thought it was making me delusional.”

Andrea put her finger beneath Natalie’s chin and smiled. “Look at me and listen carefully to what I have to say.” She waited until Natalie’s eyes met hers. “I don’t think you’re haunted, and I’m pretty certain no one has been in this house.” Natalie frowned and closed her eyes. “Look at me, baby.” She waited until Natalie’s watery gaze met hers again. “Did your doctor tell you you couldn’t just stop suddenly taking an antidepressant like Zoloft?”

“Yes.”

“But you did, didn’t you?” Andrea asked gently.

“Yeah.”

“More than likely, your body and your brain are reacting to the sudden stop. On Monday, you need to make an appointment so he can evaluate you, but in the meantime, I think it’s best that you take one of the pills.”

“I don’t need them.”

“That’s fine, but you need to be weaned off of them. I think that’s what’s causing the problem here.” Andrea tugged on Natalie’s arm. “Help me to the kitchen and let’s get you a glass of water.” Natalie helped her stand and Andrea grabbed the pill bottle. “You know, we could go to the emergency room and tell them what’s happened. They’ll probably be able to give you something to help.”

“I don’t want to go to the hospital,” Natalie said sullenly. “I’ve seen enough of those to last me a lifetime.”

“Sit.” Andrea pushed Natalie toward a bar stool. She filled a glass with water and slid it across the counter with the pill bottle. “Take one now.” She watched as Natalie complied. “I need a little sugar, got any juice?”

Natalie nodded. “I’ll get it.”

“No.” Andrea held up a hand. “I’ll get it. Have you eaten?” Andrea got a glass and the juice from the fridge.

“I’m not hungry. I could make you something if you are.”

“No, you’re going back to bed, and I’m going to make myself at home.” Andrea took a sip and gagged. She turned to the sink and heaved, fighting the urge to vomit. “Your juice is bad, honey.”

Natalie came to stand at her side. “I just bought it.”

Andrea looked at the expiration date. “Yeah, you did, but it’s sour.” She poured the remaining contents from the container down the sink.

“I’m so sorry. What else can I get you?” Natalie said as she dug around in the refrigerator.

“A glass of milk and a couple of cookies if you’ve got them.” Natalie fished a package of cookies from the cabinet and poured Andrea a glass of milk, which she sniffed before drinking. “I want you to take a shower and get into bed.” Natalie opened her mouth to object. “Don’t argue, just do it.” She couldn’t help but smile at the grown woman who suddenly looked like a child as she walked out of the room with a pout. She listened for the sound of running water before she picked up the phone.

“Hey, Annette, this is Andrea. Is Ben working the counter today?”

“No, it’s Mr. Howard. He’s the new pharmacist.”

“Don’t know him,” Andrea said. “You know anything about the side effects of a drug called Zoloft? More importantly, what happens when a person quits it cold turkey?”

“How many milligrams a day?”

Andrea looked at the bottle. “Fifty.”

“That’s a relatively low dose,” Annette said. “You’d probably feel anxiety, depression, maybe some flu-like symptoms.”

“What about hallucinations, paranoia?”

“Some people have reported those feelings on and off the drug. We’re not talking about you, are we?”

“No, a friend of mine has been taking it. She quit suddenly, and I’m a bit concerned.”

“I’m sure you’re expecting what I’m about to say next, but she needs to see her doctor. There are side effects, but they differ with each person.”

“Thanks, Annette. Give my regards to Ben when he comes back.”

“Will do.”

Andrea went into the living room and settled on the couch. Natalie didn’t look good. She wasn’t behaving normally, either. She made up her mind to convince Natalie to go to the hospital, and she wasn’t looking forward to the fight. She smiled when she saw Lyn walk onto the porch. Thank God for reinforcements.

“Natalie’s in the shower.” Andrea opened the door. “I’m gonna need your help.”

Lyn looked at her oddly as she stepped inside. “With what, bathing her?”

Andrea explained everything as quickly as she could. Lyn ran a hand through her hair and blew out a breath. “Sounds to me like she needs to go. We’ll just have to buck up and not take no for an answer.”

They were sitting on the couch when Natalie walked into the room. “You look better,” Andrea said with a smile. “You feel better?”

Natalie nodded as she took a seat in her recliner. “Hey, Lyn.”

“Hey,” Lyn said cheerfully. “Look, we’re gonna take you to the hospital and get you checked out, okay?” Natalie looked angrily at Andrea, who turned the same expression on Lyn. “No sense in beating around the bush,” Lyn said with her hands raised in defense. She looked back at Natalie. “You’re pale, and you look bad. We’re your friends and we’re worried, so cut us some slack and agree to go.”

Natalie wove her hands in her hair. “Damn it, Andrea.”

“I’m sorry, honey, but I’m really worried.”

“Fine,” Natalie said testily. “Let me get dressed.”

“She’s pissed,” Andrea said when Natalie left the room.

“Better pissed than dead. People have committed suicide coming off antidepressants.” Lyn cuffed Andrea on the arm. “We’re doing the right thing.”

Andrea and Lyn sat in a crowded waiting area. Natalie insisted on seeing the doctor alone. Andrea capitulated to her demands since they had at least gotten her to the hospital. Natalie’s face held a scowl as she re-entered the waiting room. Silently, Andrea and Lyn followed her to the parking lot.

“What did they say?” Lyn asked.

“Not much,” Natalie said. “Gave me a couple of Xanax to take tonight and tomorrow. More pills that I don’t need.”

Lyn and Andrea exchanged glances as they got into the car.

“Why don’t we order a couple of pizzas and have a girls’ night?” Andrea said brightly as she settled into the driver’s seat.

“I’m going to go home, take one of these pills, and drift off into oblivion,” Natalie said.

“I think that’s a great idea,” Lyn said from the backseat. “Andrea and I have talked, though, and we’ve decided that you shouldn’t be left alone.”

“Come the fuck on!” Natalie shouted. “I’m not some nutcase that you have to babysit.”

“Calm down,” Lyn said just as loudly. “If it were me, I’d be thankful that someone cared enough about me to want to stick around. You’re not nuts, we all know that. You’re having a reaction to medication, and you need us right now, so suck it up.”

Natalie pinched the bridge of her nose and sank low in her seat. Andrea glanced at her, then at Lyn in the rearview. Lyn’s face was red and determined. Andrea’s opinion of her went up a few notches.

When they pulled into the driveway, Natalie got out of the car wordlessly. Lyn marched along right behind her with Andrea bringing up the rear. Natalie went straight into the kitchen and filled a glass with water. Andrea and Lyn watched as she popped a pill in her mouth and swallowed. She set the glass down and stared into it. “I’m sorry.”

Andrea went to her and kissed her temple. “It’s okay, honey.”

Lyn clapped her hands together. “What’s everybody want on their pizza?”

Chapter Fourteen

Natalie watched as Lyn closed the door behind Andrea. The pill had relaxed her and made everything feel so unimportant. Lyn looked at her with a smile. “You should be off to bed before I have to carry you.”

Natalie looked at the clock. “It’s seven thirty.”

“I’m gonna change for bed, anyway. You need anything while I’m up?”

Natalie shook her head.

“Be back in a few.”

Andrea had sat with her earlier while Lyn had gone next door to get her things. For the first time since they’d met, Andrea seemed timid and awkward. “I’m really sorry about today. I was just really worried about you.”

“I understand, and I’m not mad at you.” The Xanax had taken care of that. “It’s all just really embarrassing.”

“Nothing to be embarrassed about. Could happen to any one of us. You know how much medication I take.” Andrea looked at her then. “At least we know now what’s been happening to you.”

Natalie didn’t share her relief. Yes, she had quit taking the medication abruptly—almost two weeks earlier. She’d had the prescription refilled just in case she needed it. If there were going to be side effects, she felt she would’ve noticed much sooner. Whatever she was experiencing now was not going to be accepted by others. Andrea had proven that. Once again, she found herself facing something that frightened her to the core—alone. The Xanax had taken off the edge, though. She felt relaxed, almost resigned to the fact that she was going to have to figure out the strange occurrences without help because she was not going to confide in anyone else.

The sound of the bathroom door opening drew her attention again to the hallway. If not for the benefit of the strong anti-anxiety medication dulling her emotions, her jaw would’ve sagged—maybe it was sagging, and she didn’t know it. Lyn was wearing a tight spaghetti strap cotton top. It rose about two inches above the waistband of her shorts. “I had no idea,” Natalie blurted out, unable to control her tongue.

“About what?” Lyn walked fully into the room.

“You’re so muscular.”

Lyn made a face. “Is that a turn-off for you?”

“No,” Natalie said dumbly as her gaze moved over muscled biceps to a well-toned stomach. “It’s just…your clothes hide so much. I didn’t know…” Natalie’s mouth clamped shut as she met Lyn’s eyes.

“I work out.” Lyn shrugged. “Keeps me sane…I mean on an even keel.”

“You look great. Don’t take what I said the wrong way.” Natalie sank deeper into her chair, wishing she could shut up.

“Thank you,” Lyn said demurely. “You look very relaxed.”

“I’m feeling better.”

Lyn toyed with the hem of her shorts. “Andrea said you slept on the bathroom floor last night.”

Natalie nodded, feeling slightly self-conscious. “A bad trip makes you do strange things.”

“I can’t take antidepressants, either. My doctor gave me something once when I was having a particularly bad time with Ellie. My nerves were shot. If anything, it made me worse, angrier. I stopped taking it then.”

Weary of the topic, Natalie didn’t reply.

“How about I rub your shoulders? You’ve got to be stiff from your night in the bathroom. Then you can go to bed.”

Natalie found the idea appealing, even though she doubted that she could get any more relaxed. It was one-sided human contact she craved. To be touched, soothed, then allowed to drift off into sweet oblivion.

Lyn walked over to her and extended her hand. “I’ll help you up. You might be more comfortable on the couch or…your bed.” Lyn’s eyes widened when Natalie looked at her. “I’m going to rub your shoulders and your back, nothing else.”

Natalie smiled despite herself. “I’m so high, I don’t even care.”

“I do, and you would tomorrow morning,” Lyn said with a laugh. “Bed or couch?”

“Bed.”

Lyn nodded and led her down the hall. She switched on the light in Natalie’s bedroom and stepped aside. “Go ahead and put on your PJs. Leave your top off and lay down on your bed. Call me when you’re ready.” Lyn closed the door.

Natalie clumsily stripped off her clothes and pulled on a pair of cotton lounge pants. She pulled out a T-shirt and tossed it on the bed before climbing in. What am I doing? she thought idly as she lay on her stomach. Should I let this happen?

Lyn knocked on the door. “You okay in there?”

“Fine, you can come in.” Natalie felt Lyn climb up on the bed and straddle her hips. I should be aroused by this, she thought and hoped that she hadn’t spoken aloud. Lyn’s hands felt oily and warm when they came to rest on her shoulders. The smell of lavender filled her senses.

“You don’t feel as tense as I expected,” Lyn said softly. “That Xanax must be doing a number on you.”

“Mm-hmm.” In rapturous delight, Natalie was unable to speak. It had been so long since someone had touched her like this. Gentle and almost…loving. Karen’s touch had lost that feel. She was surprised to realize what could be conveyed in a touch and what could be withheld. Karen’s had been mechanical, Lyn’s…something else altogether.

Sleep came calling way too soon. Natalie fought it for as long as she could before she heard the sound of Lyn’s breathing fade away, her touch slipping off with it. From somewhere far away, she heard, “sleep well,” and felt something soft and warm briefly touch her ear.

Chapter Fifteen

Natalie awoke in the same position the next morning as sunlight streamed through the blinds. She turned over and stretched as the faint smell of lavender filled her nostrils. Noise coming from the kitchen made her sit up and pull on her T-shirt. Her legs stiff and sore from an all-night unmoving slumber threatened to give out under her weight. Natalie held the bed for a moment, testing their strength before slowly moving toward the hall. The sound of voices stopped her in her tracks.

“What are you doing here?” Lyn asked.

“It’s my shift. Andrea called me last night and said you’d be going back to work today.”

Terry’s voice, Natalie thought as she leaned against the wall and folded her arms. She appreciated Andrea’s concern, but it pissed her off that now everyone she knew thought she suffered some sort of drug-induced breakdown. And they were taking turns watching her.

“I can take off work. I’d planned to,” Lyn said hotly.

“Now why would you do that when I’m already here?” Terry sounded clearly pleased.

“You were off this weekend. You should be going back today, too.”

“I took off when Andrea called me. Are you gonna step out of the way or what?” Natalie heard Terry walk into the house and cringed when she heard what she asked next. “Is there anything I need to watch for today? Anything I need to know about?”

Natalie was so pissed she crept back to her bedroom, climbed in bed, and pulled the covers over her head. They were watching her like an addict going through withdrawals. At that moment, she wanted to despise them all. The reasonable side of her mind argued that they cared and really thought she was suffering the ill effects of the antidepressant. It made her angrier that she couldn’t tell them the truth. And what exactly was that? It startled her to realize that she didn’t really know.

Fuck it. I’ll take the other Xanax, and this day can fade into the next, too.

Terry was standing in the kitchen waiting for a pot of coffee to brew when Natalie walked in an hour later. “Ah, I see the day shift has arrived,” she said snidely. “Lyn gone home already?”

“She has,” Terry said with a slight smile. “I brought doughnuts.” She pushed the box across the counter toward Natalie. “They were hot when I got here.”

Natalie poured herself a glass of milk and swallowed the other pill as Terry watched.

“I’ll probably sleep all day. You don’t have to hang around,” Natalie said grudgingly.

Terry cocked her head to the side as her smile slipped from her face. “What happened?”

“I’m sure Andrea told you everything or you wouldn’t be here.” She felt instantly guilty for her tone. “I’m bitchy. I’m sorry.”

“She told me you quit an antidepressant cold turkey and you had a reaction. She said you were sickly and probably shouldn’t be alone.” Terry turned and took a cup from the cabinet. “You want coffee?”

“No, but thanks.” Natalie took a seat at the bar and contemplated the doughnuts.

“What was the reaction?” Terry poured herself a cup.

“I hallucinated,” Natalie said, going with the general assumption.

“And when you went to the hospital, they gave you Xanax?” Terry looked at her over her cup.

Natalie nodded.

“What is that supposed to do for you?”

“Help me relax and sleep.” Natalie snagged a doughnut. “That’s what he said. I needed a couple of days of rest.”

Terry shook her head. “So they added more pills. Did he give you a scrip for it?”

“No, just two pills.”

“Hmm.” Terry didn’t say anything else.

Natalie had explained to the doctor that she’d stopped taking the Zoloft two weeks prior. She also left out the part about seeing the writing on the bathroom mirror and things disappearing and reappearing. Her reason for the visit was anxiety and nervousness. Anxiety attack 101. She knew the drill when she had suffered real attacks.

“So what did you see when you were hallucinating?” Terry leaned on the counter. “Something good?”

Natalie wasn’t sure how much Andrea had told Terry. She chewed the doughnut slowly as she debated her answer. “I thought I saw handwriting on my bathroom mirror.” Terry’s brows rose. “It said, I see.”

“I see,” Terry repeated.

“Yes, you see, I am crazy.”

Terry chuckled. “There’s nothing wrong with you.”

“No, there isn’t, and you took a day off work for nothing.”

“Not for nothing. I get the pleasure of your company.”

“And not for long. When this Xanax kicks in, I’m going to be loopy, then I’ll be taking a nosedive.”

“That’s okay, too. Oh, Lyn said your cable is out. Did you have it cut off?”

Natalie shook her head. “Probably something wrong. I’ll call before I get all…”

“Loopy,” Terry supplied.

“Yeah.” Natalie smiled as she reached for the phone. “Would you open that second drawer and hand me my last bill? It’s probably on the top.”

Terry did as Natalie asked and took her coffee cup to the back door where she stared out the window.

Natalie followed the recorded prompts to the service department. After a few minutes, she was connected to a  technician. “Hi, my name is Natalie Simmons, and my cable is out. Are you working in this area or is it just me?” She gave her PIN and verified her address and waited for the technician to look at her account. “No, there must be some kind of mistake. Could my neighbor have disconnected their account and mine got cut instead?” She waited a few minutes, then said, “Yes, I’d like to speak to customer service.”

Terry turned and looked at her with a quizzical expression.

“They’re saying I had my service disconnected.”

When a customer service rep came on the line, Natalie explained everything over again.

“Ms. Simmons, I show you made a request on Saturday to be disconnected. Are you saying you did not order this?”

“No, I wasn’t even home Saturday. Does it show what time the request was made?”

“Thirteen forty-two, that would be one forty-two in the afternoon.”

“That’s not possible. I was gone before noon.”

The rep spoke in a compassionate tone. “To avoid just anyone canceling a customer’s account, we assign PINs or we require the last four digits of the account holder’s Social Security number to be given before any changes are made. According to our records, the person that disconnected your account gave the PIN. Is it possible that someone else in your household made this request?”

“I live alone.” Natalie’s voice trailed off as she stared at Terry’s back. All the Xanax in the world couldn’t stop the chills that raced up her spine.

“Ms. Simmons, I’m looking at your account history. You’ve never been late on a payment. As a good customer, we’ll reinstate your service and waive the reconnect fee if that’s what you’d like us to do.”

“Yes, I would. Thank you so much.”

“You can expect your service to be back on by four this afternoon. I’d strongly suggest changing your PIN. You can do it online or via our automated phone service.”

“I will.”

“Is there anything else I can help you with today, Ms. Simmons?”

“No, ma’am, you’ve taken care of everything.”

Natalie ended the call and set her phone on the counter. Terry left her spot at the door and leaned against the kitchen counter. “Wanna tell me what’s really going on with you?”

Natalie chewed at her bottom lip. “I don’t know.”

“Let’s go into the living room.” Terry held her hand out and Natalie took it. She led Natalie to the couch where they sat. “I told you some things about my life that I don’t usually tell other people. It kind of surprised me that I did, but as I thought about it, I realized for some reason I trust you.” Terry looked deeply into Natalie’s eyes. “I want you to trust me.”

The Xanax was doing a number on Natalie as she stared into Terry’s eyes. She felt her inhibitions and reservations fading into the background, but that didn’t stop her from grinning. “You’ll think I’m crazy or delusional like Andrea did.”

Terry didn’t return the smile. Instead she sipped her coffee, meeting Natalie’s gaze, waiting.

“Do you believe in ghosts?”

Terry’s eyebrow arched as she lowered the cup and set it on the table. She was thoughtful for a moment before she answered. “I guess my answer would have to be yes and no.”

“That’s pretty noncommittal.”

Terry nodded. “Yes, I believe in them. But I don’t open myself up. In other words, I make a choice not to see. I’ve seen some strange things, but I explain it away as a trick of light or an overworked imagination. I don’t want to acknowledge it because that makes it real. Make sense?”

Natalie nodded. “I never believed, but now…I’m not so sure.”

“What antidepressant were you taking?”

“Zoloft.”

Terry looked surprised. “What dosage?”

“Fifty milligrams a day. I went through a depression for a while, and my doctor prescribed it. To be honest, I didn’t notice any difference when I was taking it, that’s why I stopped.”

“I’ve taken Zoloft for a few years now. I’ve been on and off of it, but I never had a reaction.”

“For what? If you don’t mind me asking.”

Terry’s face flushed slightly. “PMS. I get real short-tempered, and it caused me some problems at work. My gynecologist suggested it after the vitamins he suggested didn’t work.”

“It’s not the Zoloft,” Natalie admitted. “I know that. I think Andrea latched onto that instead of admitting that I was losing my mind.”

Terry picked up her cup again and sipped at her coffee. “Why don’t you tell me what’s been going on?”

Natalie took a deep breath, and the words came tumbling out. She began with the missing Cayman shirt, then its reappearance. She finished with admitting that she slept on her bathroom floor after seeing the writing on her mirror. Terry listened thoughtfully but didn’t interrupt.

“That’s why you asked me about getting an alarm the other day.”

Natalie nodded and yawned.

“No one has a key to this house but you?”

“Andrea does in case of an emergency.”

Terry stared past her. Something swirled in her dark gaze as she thought. “Do you have a spare key hidden outside?”

“No, I’d never do that.”

“Why would you think it’s a ghost?”

Natalie pursed her lips. “Can you explain the weirdness any other way?”

“Given what you’ve told me, I think I’m more inclined to consider the other possibility. Someone has been in your house.”

“For what reason?”

Terry met her gaze again. “Only you would know that.”

Natalie raised her hands. “I have no idea. I don’t really know anyone but you, Lyn, and Andrea. Why would anyone come into my house and hide a shirt of all things, then put it back?”

Terry shook her head. “That makes more sense than a ghost.”

“I’m not crazy, Terry, and I wasn’t hallucinating,” Natalie blurted out the statement before she had even realized it.

“I believe you.”

Natalie sank back into the couch feeling relieved. Someone believed her, but that would mean that someone had really been in her house. For what purpose?

“Your eyes are two slits,” Terry said with a smile. “Why don’t you go lay down? You don’t have to worry about anyone coming in while I’m here.”

Chapter Sixteen

“Don’t!” Natalie’s mind screamed out, though the word never crossed her lips. The figure was in her doorway slightly darker than the night that surrounded it. She couldn’t see the face, couldn’t tell if it was male or female. She didn’t want it to move closer, but it did, taking a step into the room.

Even if Natalie had the gun that Terry spoke to her about, she was incapable of reaching for it. She lay paralyzed as the figure moved closer. Natalie breathed harder as she watched the dark silhouette move to the edge of the bed. Who are you? Why are you here? Her mind cried out in anguish as a hand stretched out and ran over the foot of the bed.

She didn’t think her heart could take it as the figure began moving again, this time drawing closer as Natalie’s heart hammered against her chest. A small sliver of pale moonlight cut across the room, not enough to illuminate the entire face of the stranger, but dark eyes regarded her—a dark intense stare.

Natalie sat straight up with a gasp, slapping at the figure that was no longer there in the light of day. She stared at the closed bedroom door for a moment and flopped back down on her sweat-soaked sheets. She’d never suffered from nightmares, not even after the accident. She knew that she dreamed like everyone else, but she was never one to remember them like Karen did, but this was different. She felt if she were to close her eyes, she could see it all again as though she were still asleep.

Slowly, she rose and grimaced at the pain that shot up her legs. I’m looking forward to the day when standing isn’t agony, she thought as she pulled her robe on over her damp clothes with disgust. She’d have to wash it, too. When she opened the door to her bedroom, the house was quiet, but an odd smell overcame her. It grew stronger as she approached the bathroom. As she rounded the corner, she noticed a ladder, then Terry.

“Hi, need to get in here?” Terry asked cheerfully.

“What’re you doing?”

Terry held up a can of primer. “I decided to do something constructive instead of sitting around.” Nearly all the bathroom ceiling had been covered. Terry was adding the finishing touches around the light fixture. “Was I being too presumptuous?” Terry asked suddenly.

“No, I’m just surprised.” Natalie pointed to the primer. “Where did you find the stuff?”

“I picked it up on the way over this morning. I would’ve gotten the sealant for the floor, but they were out and there was no time to run into Baton Rouge. I meant to tell you that I was going to get started, but you nearly fell asleep on me. How do you feel, by the way?”

“Thoroughly rested. What time is it?”

Terry looked at her watch. “Almost three.”

Natalie rubbed her forehead. “Dear God, I slept the day away. Are you hungry?”

Terry shrugged sheepishly. “I ate the rest of your bananas. Oh, and your chips…the cookies, too. I’ll replace them.”

“No, you won’t. You took off work to be with me. A few snacks are the least I can offer. How about I whip up some homemade burgers? We can have an early dinner.”

Terry went back to painting. “You know me, I’ll never turn down food.”

“Any chance I can take a quick shower when you’re finished?”

Terry nodded. “Give me five minutes and it’s all yours.”

“Homemade fries, I haven’t had these since I was a kid.” Terry’s eyes sparkled as Natalie put the food on the table.

“Dig in, you’ve earned them.” Natalie pushed a large pile of them onto Terry’s plate with a fork. “I need to call Lyn and thank her for staying last night,” Natalie thought out loud. “I didn’t get to this morning.”

Terry nodded as she popped a fry into her mouth. “I’ve been thinking about the alarm. I think that’ll solve your problem. Have them put sensors on all the windows and doors and motion detectors around the house. It wouldn’t hurt to have some motion lights installed outside, but if that’s too expensive, I can do that for you.”

“What about boobie traps? Install a trip wire that sends a wall of knives at the invader?” Natalie asked with a grin.

“You don’t want that. It’d leave an awful mess for you to clean up. Then I’d have to patch and paint the walls, and you’d be cooking nonstop.” Terry swallowed down another fry. “Then again, I do enjoy your cooking, so I say roll with it.”

Natalie forced a smile. “I don’t know how I’m going to sleep tonight after doing it all day.”

“You want company?”

“I’m not going to be the cause of you missing another day of work. I’ll be just fine. I’ve got laundry to keep me busy, then I’ll curl up with a good book.”

“Are you afraid?” Terry studied her intently.

“A little,” Natalie conceded, “but I am not going to be run out of my house.”

Terry looked at her for a moment longer. “I’m not far away, so if you need me, call.”

****

She watched the glow and the occasional flicker of what she assumed was the television from around the edges of the blinds. Natalie was inside alone. She liked to imagine her cooped up in a corner somewhere quaking, fearing the next strike, but she knew she wasn’t. Natalie Simmons was turning out to be a test of her resolve. She was strong, so much more so than the others. She’d finally found the one.

Natalie had that same look of determination as her mother had at one time. Sometimes it chilled her to the bone and made her feel weak, then the rage would come. She hadn’t been reminded of her in a long time, but looking at Natalie made her remember the beatings and the verbal abuse. It was always her fault when a man left. She was the reason her mother couldn’t keep a job and money in her purse.

The light going off in Natalie’s living room interrupted her ruminations. “Ms. High and Mighty is off to bed,” she mumbled. “Close your eyes and try to purge me from your thoughts.”

Chapter Seventeen

“A gun?” Andrea said surprised as they sipped coffee in their favorite spot. Both sat with their legs stretched out on the table. “What prompted this discussion?”

“I told Terry that I was considering an alarm system, and she asked me if I had one.” Natalie took a sip of her coffee. “She said it was a good start, but I should have something to defend myself with.”

“No gun. Get the alarm. It’s a good idea for a woman living alone.” Andrea patted her hand. “Maybe this experience was good in a way, it’s made you vigilant.” Andrea exhaled loudly. “A gun is just overkill, pardon the pun.”

Lyn balked at the idea, as well, when Natalie had talked to her that morning, though Natalie wasn’t sure if it was the gun that Lyn disliked or that Terry had been the one to suggest it. She’d hoped for a more unbiased opinion from Andrea. “What happened the other day was an isolated incident. I’m not some mentally unbalanced soul who can’t be trusted with a firearm.”

“I know that,” Andrea said firmly, then softened her tone. “I have mixed views on gun control. Sometimes I think we’d be better off banning the damn things. How many times do you see on the news that someone has shot themselves cleaning one or a child gets their hands on one? Rarely do you ever read that a home invasion was thwarted by an armed homeowner. And then the flip, if they’re outlawed, law-abiding citizens will not have them, but people who use guns for ill intent will always find a way to get them. There are no simple answers.” Andrea turned and looked pointedly at Natalie. “My dad was a trucker, gone a lot. He had one, and I remember him telling my momma that if she ever had to pull it to be ready to squeeze the trigger. Could you do that? Look someone in the eye and fire? Because if your mind isn’t made up, that moment of hesitation could allow someone to take that weapon and use it on you.”

Natalie swallowed hard. “The only way I’d ever consider aiming a weapon at someone was if my life or the life of someone else was in imminent danger and…yes, I’m pretty certain I would fire.”

“Pretty certain doesn’t cut it. You better be damned certain before you bring a gun into your home. Unless you’ve given a key to someone else, I’m the only one that has one, and I don’t want my head blown off.”

Natalie smiled. “You don’t have to worry about that unless you come into my house unannounced in the middle of the night.”

Andrea grunted. “Middle of the night doesn’t exist for me. I’m in bed asleep by eight.”

“Are you ever afraid living alone?”

Andrea looked taken aback by the question. “I don’t live alone. I have a living breathing security system that eats up a ton of dog food. No fool in their right mind would approach a house with a pack of dogs in the yard. Hell, even Piddles the Chihuahua would at least tear a hand off if she had to. That’s what you need, a half-dozen mutts.”

Natalie made a face. “I think I’ll try the alarm first.” One dog was acceptable, but not a pack like Andrea had.

“Suit yourself. They’re great company, though.”

****

With her loafers tucked under her arm, she walked into the darkened house. She slipped the video she’d taken back into the cabinet among the rest with a smile. “Christmas Party 2001” was her next choice. She stuffed it into a separate bag and went down the hall. As had become her routine, she sniffed at the dirty laundry, deeply inhaling Natalie’s scent. Her nightshirt bearing Mickey Mouse on the front smelled of sweat and was slightly damp. She had not intended to take another, but the rich smell of Natalie’s perspiration was too tempting to pass.

“Time to step it up a notch,” she said aloud as her gaze roved over the room. It was time to make Natalie squirm. She rifled through both bed stands this time and frowned. “No sex toys, how boring.” Finding a vibrator was always a delight, but Natalie didn’t appear to own one. “I wonder if she’s frustrated. It would be a thrill to unleash that passion.”

She lay on Natalie’s bed atop the plaid comforter with her head on Natalie’s pillow and envisioned Natalie atop her writhing in passion. It surprised her how much she craved the touch of Natalie’s skin against hers. A want, a hunger burned much hotter and stronger than it had in the past. She growled in anger as she sat up. No woman had ever wielded that power over her, and that wasn’t going to change. She smiled as she thought about sinking her teeth into that warm skin, the scream, the blood. Raw arousal tore through her core. Now that’s the way it’s supposed to be, she thought as she stood and looked at the rumpled bed.

“Shit,” she said as she looked at the floor. “That tidy bitch vacuumed.” She looked around at the neat tracks made in the carpeting surrounding her feet. Her prints but no others were apparent. “Did it this morning.” She’d wanted Natalie to know that someone had lain on her bed, but her footprints so clearly lined out in the carpet were a disappointment. Why hadn’t Natalie chosen Berber like every other bitch she toyed with? She dragged her feet across the prints as she backed out of the room. It was obvious that someone had been there, but there would be no prints to determine the size of the person who made them.

She went into the kitchen humming Devil in Disguise, certain it was written for her. She noticed Natalie’s to-do list on the counter and read over it with a grin. Move orchids to greenhouse – Pick up ingredients for taco soup – Terry on Friday to paint – Call about the alarm. Brows raised. That could prove interesting. She turned and went out the back door, and this time left it unlocked and slightly ajar.

****

Natalie hefted two bags of groceries from the backseat of her car and headed toward the house. She’d start the soup to cook on Friday morning, and by the time Terry broke for lunch, it would be ready. Her mouth nearly watered as she thought about when she added shredded cheddar to the soup. It melted and gave it a smooth tangy taste. She couldn’t wait.

She was standing on the first step when she remembered that she couldn’t go in through the front door. Most of Terry’s work blocked the entrance, so she slowly made her way to the back. There were no handrails on the steps, so she took each one slowly. As she lifted her key to open the lock, she noticed the open door. Natalie stepped back with a gasp falling and felt herself being captured in a pair of arms that held her tight.

“Whoa!” Lyn yelled as Natalie screamed and pulled away from her, flinging the bags wildly. “Whoa, wait,” she cried as she dodged a blow. “I didn’t mean to scare you.”

Natalie took another step back, breathing deeply.

“I’m sorry.” Lyn reached for her, but Natalie flinched. She withdrew her hand and tucked them in the pockets of her hooded sweatshirt. “I wanted to see if you had anything for a cold. I feel like shit, and I’m too lazy to go to the store.” Lyn sounded as shaken as Natalie felt.

Natalie pointed at the door. “I know I locked that before I left. I checked it twice, and it’s open.”

Lyn eyes widened as she moved to Natalie’s side. “Let’s call the police.” She looked at the door for a second. “There doesn’t appear to be any pry marks, but that doesn’t mean that someone hasn’t broken a window and came out this way.” She tugged on Natalie’s sleeve. “Come to my house,” she said in a whisper.

Natalie set the bags on the patio and followed Lyn, who had a firm grip on her arm. Both of them looked back at the house as they walked briskly through the front yard and slipped past the fence. “That’s the problem with the houses being so far apart on this street. No one can see or hear anything. Look at the fucking hedges, they’re huge.” Lyn’s voice was low and shaky. Her hand trembled slightly as she opened her door, then paused. She looked around nervously before taking a step inside and pulled Natalie along with her.

Natalie sat on the sofa. Her legs ached from nearly jogging across the yard. She listened as Lyn made the call. “I think someone may’ve broken into my neighbor’s house. She came home and found the back door open. Can you send someone to check it out?” Lyn gave the address. “She’s here with me. We’ll wait until an officer arrives, then we’ll step out. No, I didn’t see anything, but we didn’t exactly stick around. Okay, thanks.”

Lyn hugged herself, then seemed to remember that Natalie was there. She sat beside her and draped an arm around her waist. “They’re sending someone.” She rubbed Natalie’s back.

Natalie took a look at her watch. It was ten seventeen. She hoped she’d remember again to check the time when the officer arrived. Would they go code one as Terry had said? The house was broken into and someone could very well still be inside. Would they consider this an emergency?

Natalie’s mouth was dry from breathing heavy. “Could I have some water?”

“Be right back.” Lyn got up and opened the curtains to her large living room window. “Keep an eye out for the police car.” Natalie looked around the room. There wasn’t much furniture save for the couch she was sitting on and a single chair. She doubted that Lyn ever spent any time in there. No TV, no books, nothing to indicate that anyone even lived there. She smiled nervously when Lyn returned and handed her a bottled water. “I’m not happy that you’re sick, but I sure am glad you were home.”

Lyn sniffed. “All this excitement has made me forget how bad I feel. I always get a cold at the change of the seasons.” She paced back and forth in front of the window. “I was in the kitchen digging around for some cold meds when I saw you pull in.”

“You didn’t happen to see anyone else over there? Maybe someone who looked like a repairman or a meter reader?”

Lyn shook her head as she stared out the window. “No, no one…” She turned and looked at Natalie. “I did see a blue pickup driving slowly down the street, though.”

“Did you happen to notice the make and model or who was inside? A man or woman?”

Lyn shrugged. “I can’t tell one from the other, really. It had a silver toolbox in the back.”

“Terry drives one like that. She might’ve dropped by to see if I was home. She still has some work to do on the floor.”

Lyn toyed with a string on the curtains. “Do you trust her?”

Natalie stared at the bottle in her hand. “I…yeah, I think I do. Andrea does, and she’s a pretty shrewd judge of character.”

“But she’s been in your house. She probably knows what you have inside.” Lyn turned and looked at her. “She admitted to moving around a lot. Doesn’t that make you wonder about her?”

Terry had explained why she moved so often, but that conversation was private and she wasn’t going to share the details. She did admit to having a sordid past as a child. Natalie toyed with the label on her bottle of water as she thought. “I trust her,” she said as she looked up. “I don’t know why, but I do.”

Ten minutes later, two patrol cars came down the street. One pulled into Natalie’s driveway while the other moved slowly along the road. Natalie felt relieved that two deputies had shown up but surmised that ten minutes was an awfully long time to wait.

“Which one of you is the owner?” the first deputy asked as Natalie and Lyn approached.

“I am,” Natalie said.

“Tell me what happened,” he said as the second car pulled behind his and an older man got out.

“I know I locked my back door. I was just talking to someone about getting an alarm system the other day, so it’s been on my mind to be careful.” Natalie relaxed a bit when Lyn slipped an arm around her waist. “I know without a doubt that I locked it, and when I came home, it was open when I tried to put my key in the lock.”

“Front or back?” the older deputy asked.

“The back,” Natalie said. “I had some floor work done by the front door. I can’t use it right now.”

“Did you lock it back when you left?” he asked.

“No, sir,” Lyn interrupted, “we ran.”

Another patrol car arrived, and a female deputy climbed out. “Monson, you mind waiting with these ladies while we check out the house?” the older man asked her.

“No, sir.” She walked up to Lyn and Natalie. The three of them watched as the two deputies walked up to the driveway and split going separate directions. Both disappeared behind the house.

“Do you both live here?” Deputy Monson asked Lyn as she looked her over.

“No, I live next door.” Lyn pointed in the direction of her house.

Deputy Monson directed her attention to Natalie and gazed at her with the same scrutiny. “Were you gone overnight?”

“No, I left about eight this morning.”

After a few minutes, one of the deputies whistled from the side of the house and motioned for them to approach. Lyn kept a firm grip on Natalie’s waist as they walked.

“Ma’am, would you mind stepping inside and looking around? Nothing appears to be missing, but we need you to confirm.”

Natalie looked at the name tag on his uniform and nodded. “Deputy Randall, I assume you didn’t find anyone inside?” she asked nervously.

“No, ma’am, the house is clear.” He pushed the door open and waited for them to file past. The older deputy had his back to them looking down at the portion of floor that had been replaced. He turned and looked at Natalie. “I’ll walk through with you if you’ll feel more comfortable.”

Natalie’s gaze darted around the kitchen, then the living room as she made her way slowly through. Nothing appeared to be moved or missing. She felt the deputy behind her as she looked into the spare bedroom, then peeked into the closet. “Was this door open when you came in?”

“No, ma’am, I opened it myself. All the closets were closed, but I did open each one.”

Natalie walked into her bedroom next and went straight to her dresser, pulling out the top drawer where she kept her jewelry. The rings she and Karen had worn were still there, and nothing else seemed disturbed. She turned and looked at her bed. The deputy followed her gaze and looked at it curiously.

“Something wrong?” he asked.

Natalie looked at him for a second as her heart began to hammer in her chest again. “I don’t know if you noticed,” Natalie began nervously, “but I’m kind of a neat freak.”

The deputy smiled. “My wife is the same way.”

“Then she would notice if someone had been on her bed,” Natalie said, looking back at it. “I don’t suppose either of you laid down when you checked in here.”

The smile slid off his face as he looked at the bed. One side, Natalie’s side, was rumpled.

“I can assure you I didn’t leave it that way.” The deputy looked back at her. She sounded to her own ears as though she was on the verge of panic. Natalie couldn’t look into his inquisitive eyes any longer as he studied her. Her gaze drifted down to his name tag. “Officer Ducote, I’m not crazy. Someone has been in my house, and I think maybe more than once.”

He looked at her bed, then moved and looked down at the carpet. She saw his eyes narrow as he looked at the floor. “Why don’t you come into the kitchen and talk to me?” He looked back at Natalie.

Natalie took a step toward the door and stopped. “My nightshirt is missing again.”

He looked at her oddly. “Ma’am?”

“I have a habit of hanging the shirt I sleep in on that chair.” Natalie pointed to it. “I hung it there this morning. I know I did.”

He knelt and looked under the bed and around the chair. “I don’t see it.” He pointed to the laundry basket in the corner. “You mind having a look in there just in case?”

Natalie fished through the clothes that she’d worn the day before, but the shirt wasn’t there. Deputy Ducote watched over her shoulder with an eyebrow raised. “These are the clothes I wore yesterday, the shirt isn’t here.”

“Let’s go into the kitchen and have a seat.” He stepped back and allowed Natalie to pass.

Deputy Ducote appeared to be in charge and released the other two deputies. He’d also asked Lyn to leave, as well. She looked a bit put off as she followed the other two out the door. Ducote sat at the kitchen table jotting in a notebook while Natalie put on a pot of coffee. When Natalie set the cup in front of him, Ducote smiled and thanked her. He flipped the lid to his pad closed before she could read what he had written. “Deputy Randall is of the mind that though you checked the door before you left, you might not have locked it all the way or just plain forgot. Frankly, that’s how we would normally write this sort of thing up.”

He paused and took a sip of his coffee. Natalie felt her heart sinking. They all thought she was a forgetful overreacting woman, but something Deputy Ducote said stopped her. “You said that’s how you would normally write something like this up. Does that mean you’re not going to?”

“You said your nightshirt disappeared ‘again.’ This has happened before?”

“A little over a week ago, my favorite shirt disappeared. I convinced myself that I’d misplaced it, then one day, I came home, and it was back on the chair.” She left out the writing on the mirror.

Ducote regarded her as he set his cup down. “My wife is just like you. You can go into our house and move one thing.” He picked up the salt shaker and moved it across the table. “She’d notice this in a heartbeat. I’d seriously doubt you if you weren’t so meticulous. So I have to ask, Ms. Simmons, is there someone in your life that would want to send a message? Want you to know that they’d sneaked into your home?”

Natalie shook her head. “No one.”

“No ex-husband? Ex-boyfriend?”

“I was in a long-term relationship, and she died two years ago. There hasn’t been anyone in my life since,” Natalie wearily confessed.

“I’m sorry for your loss.” Ducote opened his pad and made a note, then closed it. “Did your partner have an ex-girlfriend that might’ve been angry with you?” he asked, seemingly unfazed that she had admitted to being a lesbian.

Natalie rubbed at her eyes. “No, they split amicably long before I came into the picture.”

“Does anyone besides yourself have a key to your home?”

“Andrea Thoreau. She’s my closest friend.”

Ducote smiled. “I know Andrea pretty well, she’s good people.” He softened his tone. “What happened to your…partner?”

Natalie felt like she’d told the story a million times in the last couple of weeks. She felt numb as she replied, “A drunk driver.”

“Was this driver killed, as well?”

Natalie shook her head. “He served a little time. His parents are very wealthy, and they were able to work the system.”

A look crossed Ducote’s face like he expected the answer. He shook his head and exhaled, then looked back at Natalie. “Was there a lawsuit?”

Natalie’s eyes widened as she looked into his. “You don’t think it’s him, do you?”

“I wouldn’t rule it out.” He flipped open his book and made a few notes. He asked for the driver’s name and raised a brow when Natalie told him, “Keith Kelly.”

“You know him then?” Natalie asked.

“Keith Kelly Sr. is well known, and his son is, too, although not for the same reasons. I bought my last two vehicles from the Senior Kelly.” He closed the notebook and took another sip of his coffee. “Your neighbor next door, are you seeing her? Dating?”

“No, she just moved in. We’re friends.” Natalie was too focused on Keith Kelly to consider anyone else. “She was as scared as I was, maybe even a bit more. It was her idea to call you.”

Ducote nodded but didn’t open his notebook. “Anyone else in your life? Friends?”

“There’s a woman I’ve befriended. She’s the one that did the work on my floor.” Natalie pointed to the living room.

“And she doesn’t have a key?” he asked, flipping open the notebook.

“No.”

“Give me her full name and an address if you have one,” he said with his pen poised.

“Terry’s a nice woman. She’s the one I talked to about the alarm system. She also told me to get a gun. I can’t imagine she’d be responsible after giving me advice like that.”

“You’re more than likely right, but I’d like to talk to her and your neighbor, too, and any of your other friends that visit here.”

Natalie felt ashamed and embarrassed for bringing Terry into question. She wondered what she would think having a cop show up on her doorstep asking questions. She knew that Andrea would cooperate since Ducote said he knew her. She had no idea how Terry would react, and that disturbed her the most. She liked Terry, maybe a tiny bit too much. “Terry’s renting Clyde Bordelon’s cabin.”

“I know it well,” Ducote said with a nod. “Natalie, are you protecting someone?” he asked suddenly.

His appraisal was frank as she stared at him dumbstruck. “No. If I had only a suspicion about someone, I would tell you.”

Ducote pulled a card from his breast pocket and slid it across the table. “My office number, as well as my cell, is on there. Should you come up with something you need to tell me, then call. If you come back home and find the house open or disturbed, call 911, and tell them to find me.”

He stood and took his cup to the sink. Natalie followed him and watched as he rinsed it and put it in the dishwasher. “Sorry,” he said with a smile. “I’m well trained. You don’t leave dishes in the sink at our house.” He walked to the door and paused before opening it. “Get that alarm system soon. If it were me, I’d get a dog, too, not a puppy, something that will bark when someone comes around. And hide-a-keys are never a good idea.” He opened the door and stepped outside, looking at the frame and the lock, then noticed the groceries that still sat on the patio. He picked up the bags and handed them to Natalie. “How did you feel when your friend mentioned getting a gun?”

Natalie took the bags and looked at him surprised. “Not very comfortable.”

“My wife won’t touch one, but when my daughter moved out on her own, I took her to the range and taught her how to shoot. I let her decide if she wanted one.” He smiled slightly. “After she learned how to use one, she got a weapon of her own. I’d suggest you take a few courses, too.” He handed her another card. “This guy is a friend of mine, but this is not a sales pitch. He’s an excellent instructor, one that will make you think twice about owning a weapon.”

“Will he tell me horror stories until I’m too afraid to leave his place without one?”

Ducote shook his head. “One look at his face will make you want to second-guess owning one. He shot himself a long time ago with a weapon he thought wasn’t loaded. He’s ultra-careful now and you won’t find a better trainer.”

Chapter Eighteen

Natalie watched Ducote walk from Lyn’s house and climb into his patrol car. She hoped that Lyn figured he would want to talk to her since she was at the house. Still she worried that Lyn would feel like she was being interrogated. Lyn appeared in her view as she walked around the fence and made her way to the house. Natalie waited for her at the back door when she came around.

Lyn gave her a warm hug, then looked into her eyes. “Are you okay?”

“Yeah.” Natalie stepped back and let her in. “I’m sorry he asked you to leave.”

“I started to tell him to piss up a rope, but I didn’t want to make trouble.”

Natalie went to the cabinet where she kept her medicines and fished out two boxes. “I have some daytime cold stuff and some nighttime.” She looked at the expiration dates on the boxes before handing them to Lyn. “I rarely take the stuff, so keep it all.”

“Thanks.” Lyn stuffed the boxes into the pocket of her hooded sweatshirt. “I probably shouldn’t be around you. I might make you sick, too.”

“No, it’s okay,” Natalie said. “How about a cup of tea? Might make you feel better.”

“With honey?” Lyn said, looking like a child.

“Lemon, too, and a shot of bourbon if you want it.”

“Yes to all.” Lyn pulled out a bar stool and sat down. “So nothing was taken?”

“No,” Natalie lied. She wasn’t going to debate whether or not she misplaced the shirt. She was certain that it was gone, and Ducote believed her.

“He asked me if I knew your friends and what kind of people they were. Then he asked me if I’d seen anyone around.” Lyn quieted as though she were waiting for Natalie to say something. “Are you having problems, Nat?”

Natalie had always hated that nickname, though Karen used it often. “It’s Natalie,” she said with a smile. “I hate Nat, it makes me sound like a bug.”

“You’re avoiding the question,” Lyn said in a sing-song voice.

“Deputy Ducote brought to mind Keith Kelly, the guy who killed Karen. I hadn’t thought about him until today. He’s the only person I can think of that would have a grudge with me.”

“How the hell is he getting in?” Lyn asked as Natalie fixed her tea and slid it across the bar.

“I’m not certain that it’s him, but he’s the only plausible suspect. As for how someone is getting in, I have no idea. The doors and windows are still intact. Maybe whoever it is, is picking the locks.”

“Well, for fuck’s sake, change them,” Lyn said. “Buy one that’s harder to mess with than these.” She pointed at the door. “They look like they’re as old as the house.”

“That’s a good point.” Natalie pulled out a pen and jotted it down on her to-do list.

Lyn grabbed her hand and Natalie looked up at her. “Call a locksmith right now. If you won’t, then I will.”

Natalie pulled out the phone book and together they picked what seemed to be the most reputable and closest before Natalie made a call. “They can have someone out today. The lady said not to open the door for anyone but Tony, he’ll be in a uniform. Blue pants and a white polo shirt with the name embroidered on the front.”

“Now that’s professional,” Lyn said. “They let you know up front who to expect. I like that.” Lyn pulled the phone book to her side of the bar. “Let’s look at alarm companies.”

“I don’t want to have it installed until Terry finishes painting the ceilings. I plan to have motion sensors in all the rooms, and according to what I’ve read online, they mount up near the ceiling.”

“After today, you really want to wait on that?” Lyn asked. “Why can’t Terry paint around them? It’s not like you’re gonna take them down and expose the darker spot.” She flipped the book around and pointed to the largest most colorful ad. “Call them first. They say they’ve been in business the longest.”

Natalie agreed with Lyn’s reasoning and called. She was asked a ton of questions and given a ballpark figure in lieu of the formal estimate. She was delighted when they were able to schedule the final estimate and install on the same day.

“Did you just schedule the install on the same day as the estimate?” Lyn asked when she ended the call.

Natalie nodded.

“Don’t you think you should get more than one?”

“I want it done.” Natalie folded her arms tightly over her chest. “You made a good point. I don’t want to have to worry every time I leave the house, and I don’t want to be afraid in my own home.”

“Why don’t you stay with me tonight?” Lyn asked. “At least until the alarm system is in place.”

Natalie considered the offer, then thought about Andrea. She’d be upset that she hadn’t called. “Shit!” she said as she grabbed the phone. “I forgot to call Andrea. If Ducote gets to her first, she will absolutely lose her mind.” Natalie punched in the number and waited for Andrea to answer.

“I’m going to kill you,” Andrea said when she heard Natalie’s voice. “Tom Ducote just walked out of my door. I thought he was coming to tell me something happened to you. I almost had to take a heart pill. I’m closing up shop right now, and I’m coming to get you.”

“I’m sor—” Natalie’s apology was cut off by the disconnect. “Well, it looks like I’ll be staying with Andrea tonight.”

“He got to her first, didn’t he?”

Natalie opened her eyes wide. “Oh, yes, he did. I don’t think I’ve ever heard her sound that mad.”

“Okay, well, that’s my cue to leave.” Lyn stood and took the last swallow of her tea. “I’ll stick by your side if someone is coming after you, but not if it’s Andrea. She reminds me too much of my mother, and she didn’t play around the pound.”

Lyn gave Natalie a hug and promised to watch over the house while she was gone for the evening. As she watched Lyn hike across the yard, she remembered her mentioning the pound. Andrea loved animals. Maybe she’d take her to the pound to look for a dog. Maybe that would distract the woman from chewing her hind quarter to shreds.

Andrea pushed through the door when Natalie opened it and grabbed her by the shoulders. She looked her over from head to toe, and when she was sure Natalie was fine, she pulled her into her arms with a cry. “I’m such a stupid old fool,” Andrea said. “I know you, and when you told me someone was coming into your house, I should’ve taken you at your word.”

“Deputy Ducote told you about his suspicions?” Natalie asked when Andrea released her.

Andrea cupped her cheek. “I’ve known Tom for ages. I grilled him more than he grilled me. Now get your things. We’re getting the hell out of here.”

“I can’t. I have a guy coming by to change my locks. He’ll be here shortly. Can I make you something to eat?”

“No.” Andrea clutched her stomach. “I’ve been queasy since Tom said your name. I’ll take a glass of iced tea, though.”

Natalie poured the tea and set a pack of crackers next to Andrea. Then she went into the living room and looked at the new floor. “Do you think I should cover the new flooring? Terry hasn’t had a chance to seal it yet. She told me not to walk on it.”

“Throw a blanket on it,” Andrea called from the kitchen. “Then get your ass in here. I don’t like you being out of my sight.”

Natalie laughed, relieved to have her company. After she finished covering the floor, she walked back into the kitchen. “You feel like driving me into town after the locksmith leaves?”

“For what, hon?” Andrea peered over the top of her glasses.

“I think I’d like to go to the shelter and get a dog.”

Andrea grinned for the first time since she’d arrived. “How ’bout two? They can entertain themselves when you’re busy. If one bark is good, then two barks are better.”

Natalie put a hand on her hip. “I’m thinking about poo. If one dog shits, then two dogs will shit twice as much.”

Andrea fanned her hand like Natalie was being preposterous. “They make scoopers nowadays. You pick up the poo without ever having to bend down.”

After the new locks were installed, Natalie put a key on her ring, then Andrea’s. They rode into Baton Rouge chatting about what kind of dog Natalie wanted. Andrea cackled as Natalie listed what she was looking for. “I want one that doesn’t drool and doesn’t shed, but big. You think they’ll know if the dog is house-trained or not?”

“Of course, and be sure to ask if the dog knows how to shower properly and if it knows how to make coffee.” She was still laughing as they pulled into the parking lot.

When they walked into the animal shelter, Andrea was treated like royalty. She’d been going there for years and had adopted quite a few animals. When her house was full, she donated on a regular basis. Plus, Andrea never met a stranger. She knew all the names of the employees. “What you got in the way of big dogs, Martha?” She looked over at Natalie and grinned. “We’re looking for something that can cook and do the laundry.”

Martha rubbed her hands together and smiled. “Come see. I have two that came in the other day. Nice folks brought them in. They have an infant that is seriously allergic. Couldn’t find anyone to adopt them on their own.”

Natalie grabbed Andrea by the arm as they followed Martha into the back and whispered, “I said one dog, not two.”

But when they got to the cage and Natalie saw the two Australian shepherds cuddled together, she couldn’t imagine just taking one. Martha let them out, and both dogs came directly to her as if they already knew she was the one looking. The male rolled back his top lip and showed his teeth. Natalie took a step back.

“He’s smiling,” Martha said with a laugh. “Harley does it with all the women, but he’s not too fond of the guys.”

“Do you know if they’re watch dogs? “Andrea asked.

“That’s one thing the Ronalds remarked on,” Martha said as she petted the female. “No one came into their yard without the dogs sounding alert. They’re watch dogs, all right, and I have no doubt they’d take apart anyone who messed with their owner.”

“What’s her name?” Natalie asked as the female sniffed her over, then licked her arm.

“Paisley. The Ronalds’ older children named them. They were heartbroken when they had to let them go. Mrs. Ronald cried like a baby.”

“How old are they?” Andrea asked.

“A year, neutered and spayed, in good health, too. They have to go together, though, that’s the only stipulation. They’ve been together since they were puppies, and I think it would kill them to be separated.”

Andrea chuckled. Natalie looked up at her as the dogs showered her with kisses and scowled. “I’ll take them.”

An hour later, both dogs rode in the backseat of Andrea’s car looking bewildered but happy to be out of the kennel. “These dogs are workers. They have to have a job or they’ll get bored and tear up things.”

“You tell me this now?” Natalie said, looking over at her.

Andrea chuckled as she wheeled into Petco. “I know just the thing.” Each woman took a dog that walked happily on the leashes supplied by the former owners. Paisley’s “bling bone” dangled from her collar. The faux diamonds glittered in the fading sunlight. It made Natalie sad to think that a child had to give up her pet. The “bling bone” matched the “bling collar” personally picked out by the child. Natalie made up her mind to have Andrea contact Martha and see if the Ronald children would like to come over and play with their dogs sometime.

The fluffy black, white, and brown dogs pranced through the store like they were on parade, eagerly approaching anyone who looked like they might give them a pat or a treat. Natalie worried that they might be equally gregarious to anyone who entered her yard, but Martha did say they were territorial.

Andrea filled the shopping cart with the dog food she personally recommended, treat biscuits, and bowls she held out for them to sniff and give approval over. Next they went to the toy aisle, and Andrea picked up a plastic stick with what looked like an ice cream scoop on the end of it. “You put the tennis ball in here and give it a toss. The ball goes a lot farther than it would go by hand.” Both dogs sat as though they were familiar with how it worked and waited for the ball to be tossed. Andrea grinned and threw it in the cart along with a bag of tennis balls.

Next she picked up two Kongs, red rubber things that looked like chew toys. “When I leave the house, I put treats inside with a dab of peanut butter. It keeps my troops busy for hours. They don’t get too crazy when they have a Kong to play with.” She scratched her chin and looked at Natalie. “I don’t suppose you’ll let them sleep in the bed with you?”

“Absolutely not.” Natalie looked disgusted at the thought.

“Gonna need beds then,” Andrea said. “Something they know is theirs.”

They moved to that aisle, and Natalie scrutinized each one, finally settling on a large blue bed covered in navy blue paws for Harley. For Paisley, she chose a pink one with darker pink paws. “Where are the shit sticks?”

Andrea laughed and shook her head. “Well, we can’t forget about that now. My dogs poo, by the way.”

“Call it what you will, but it still stinks.”

When they arrived at the register, Andrea insisted on paying. “This is my house-warming gift.” She smiled down at the dogs. “Besides, I have a discount card. Fill this out.” She passed a card to Natalie that would entitle her to receive one, as well.

Chapter Nineteen

“Andrea, would you mind staying with me tonight?” Natalie asked as they drove toward home.

She looked over and smiled. “I was going to suggest the same thing. The babies need to spend the first night in their new home. It’d be confusing otherwise.” They stopped by Andrea’s house. Natalie and her canine companions waited in the car as Andrea went in and fed her troops. She emerged a while later with an overnight bag. “I’ll stay as long as you need, sweetie,” Andrea assured her with a pat on the arm.

“The alarm will be installed tomorrow morning, and I have my buddies now.” Natalie reached over the seat and scratched both dogs behind the ears. “I won’t be afraid.”

When they arrived at Natalie’s place, they let both dogs run around the yard to sniff, and in Harley’s case, pee all over everything. Both responded immediately when Natalie called and followed her into the house. They sniffed everything in there, too, and to Natalie’s delight, nothing was marked. She took the tags off their beds and laid them in her room as Andrea poured their dinner and water into bowls.

“You need a fence, baby,” Andrea said when Natalie came back into the kitchen. “These pups will need to go out anytime they eat. I don’t like the idea of you being in the yard alone at night even when they’re with you.”

Natalie sighed as she began to whip up something for her and Andrea to eat. One problem solved and another crops up, she thought. At this rate, she’d have work crews in her house and yard for a month. “Jot ‘fence’ on my to-do list and I’ll call tomorrow.”

Andrea made the notation, then prepared to take the dogs out. Natalie went with her and watched as they ran through the deep lot almost to the woods to do their business. Andrea looked around, then back at Natalie. “I never really noticed how secluded it was out here and how dark. You may want to consider having Terry install a few motion lights.”

“She’s already offered. I hope she’s still talking to me after Ducote gets a hold of her. He asked me for the names and addresses of all my friends.”

“She’ll understand.” Andrea wrapped her sweater tighter. “She seems like a decent kid. She’ll probably be just as worried as I was.”

Natalie hoped so. She liked Lyn and Terry, even though they were opposites and seemed to grate on each other’s nerves. Lyn was pretty and sweet; Natalie could see herself dating her. And then there was Terry—mysterious in a way, and those eyes, how they stirred something within her.

Andrea whistled for the dogs and both came running. She petted and praised before turning to Natalie. “Love on them when they come to you.”

Natalie knelt and scratched Harley behind his ears. He seemed satisfied with the amount of affection that she doled out and followed Andrea to the door. Paisley looked at her for a moment, then moved in. She stuck her nose under Natalie’s arm and moved close to her body. “Oh, you’re a snuggler,” Natalie said as she wrapped her arms around her. The dog laid its head on her shoulder, and Natalie felt her heart slipping away. “I hope you’ll be happy here, sweet thing, because you make me happy.”

“She’s already bonded to you,” Andrea said with nod.

Natalie followed Andrea into the house. “I said I didn’t want two, but I’m so glad to have both.”

“You seem to be getting two of everything lately. Two dogs, two women.” Andrea smiled as Natalie averted her eyes.

“I have two friends, yes.” She pulled out a couple of cups and put the water on for tea.

“I would be inclined to agree that they were only friends, but your face is flushed.” Andrea slapped the bar. “Which one has your eye?”

Natalie laughed, feeling silly. “I might have a little crush,” she held up two fingers, leaving a small space between them, “on both.”

“Oh, hot damn, what a dilemma.” Andrea threw back her head and cackled. “I say get them both in the sack and pick whoever turns out to be a sports car.”

“Andrea!” Natalie put a hand on her hip and tried to appear outraged. The most she could pull off was embarrassment.

“My bet’s on Terry. You notice that strong back and those leg muscles? I bet she can—”

“La la la la la,” Natalie sang out as she plugged her ears.

Andrea waved her off. “Don’t tell me you haven’t thought about it. Ever notice how her lips always look red and juicy? And she doesn’t wear all that lipstick that Lyn does. That’s natural and kissable.”

Natalie shook her head as she poured the water for the tea. She had noticed Terry’s mouth and her muscles. The thought made parts of her come alive. “I think you have the hots for her.”

“Oh, I do, but that Maserati isn’t interested in this old minivan. She’s got her eye on a little sport coup.”

“What kind of car do you think Lyn is?” Natalie asked as she turned to Andrea.

She narrowed her eyes as she thought. “A Delorean, maybe. All flashy on the outside, but very high maintenance.”

“You don’t like her at all.”

“She’s all right, I guess.” Andrea shook her head. “I think you’d be better off keeping her as a friend.” Andrea accepted her cup and a tea bag. She dipped it in the water and let it steep. “I guess I don’t see her as a long-term kinda gal. And that, my sweetie, is what you are.”

“I dunno.” Natalie leaned against the counter. “I’m kind of afraid of getting into another relationship.” Natalie drummed her fingers on the counter. “I haven’t been completely honest with you. Actually, I haven’t been honest with myself until recently.” She exhaled loudly.

Andrea stopped toying with the string on her tea bag and looked at her.

“Karen was going to leave me. I heard her talking on the phone to her best friend.” She looked at Andrea sadly. “It was my idea to go out that night. I was hoping to rekindle some of the old flame…well, a flame. Of course, you know how that ended.”

“Oh, honey.” Andrea reached over and took her hand.

Natalie waited for the tears, but they refused to come. She stared at Andrea blankly. “I’ve felt guilty for so long. She’d still be alive if I hadn’t pushed for that night.”

“It wasn’t your fault, honey.”

“But it was. If I hadn’t have talked her into going out that night, it all would’ve been different.” Natalie closed her eyes, absorbing the warmth of Andrea’s hand. “I feel guilty for that and fear that…whomever I get involved with will…will look at me like Karen did—trapped.”

Andrea squeezed her hand until she was forced to look up at her. “Whoever you get involved with will be damn lucky to have you. I’m not just talking about Terry and Lyn. Forgive me for saying this, but Karen was a fool.”

Natalie shook her head. “I’m the fool. I should’ve confronted her and let her go. She’d probably be in the arms of someone else by now, but she’d still be here.”

“We all have a time to go, and that night was Karen’s. If you want to lay blame, then put it on the drunk bastard that hit you.”

Natalie felt a chill run down her spine as she thought of Keith. She shivered.

“I’m sorry, honey. Tom told me his suspicions. I shouldn’t have brought that boy up.”

“It’s okay. We have two protectors now.” She looked down at the dogs. “Are we ready to go to bed?” Both looked at her expectantly, perhaps they thought she meant go for a ride.

“I’m gonna take my tea to bed with me,” Andrea said as she stood.

Natalie picked up both cups. “Good idea.”

She followed Andrea to the spare bedroom and put the cup on the nightstand. “If you need anything at all, don’t hesitate to call out.”

Andrea pulled her into her arms and squeezed her tight. “It’s time to forgive yourself, sweetie.”

“I’ll work on that,” Natalie said with a weak smile as she pulled away. “Good night.”

Paisley took to her bed immediately. She walked over when Natalie patted it and laid down like she’d been living there forever. Harley was not so easy. He’d lie as long as she sat on the floor next to them, but the moment she climbed in her bed, he was up and circling. She figured the best way to deal with him was to ignore him and maybe he might settle next to his sister. That plan worked when Natalie buried her face in a book.

She was about to switch off the light when she heard Harley moving. His face appeared near her thigh. She watched as one paw landed on the bed, the second joined a moment after. His top lip rolled up on just the right side showing her his grin.

“Is this going to go on all night?” Natalie sat up and scratched him behind the ears. His back end was on the bed in a flash. He laid down beside Natalie and looked at her beseechingly. “Okay, for tonight only,” Natalie said, knowing it was a lie. “Paisley?”

At the sound of her name, Paisley jumped up on the bed and low-crawled between her brother and Natalie. “I’ve always wanted a dog.” Natalie stroked the soft fur of the dogs’ faces. Karen had wanted a cat. They never could come to an agreement, and she supposed that neither felt passionately enough about it to continue the argument. Natalie grinned when Harley rolled onto his back and Paisley moved closer. Maybe two dogs wouldn’t be so bad.

Chapter Twenty

Terry rolled over and sat up in bed. Had she heard a knock or had she dreamed it? She jerked as she heard it again. She pulled on a T-shirt and a pair of sweats and was surprised to see a police car sitting in front of the cabin. “Yes?” she asked as she opened the door.

“Terry Rayford?” the officer inquired.

“Yes, sir,” she said, wondering if she was about to be told that the wildlife had caught up to one of her siblings.

“I’m Deputy Ducote. I apologize for waking you up at this hour. Clyde Bordelon told me you work shift work. I was hoping to catch you as you came off nights this morning, but a call had me delayed.”

“Please come in.” Terry stepped in and allowed the officer into her home. She looked at the clock and realized that she’d only been asleep for an hour. She felt drunk caused by the interruption of deep sleep. “Have a seat. May I make you some coffee?”

“No, ma’am. I have no intention of keeping you longer than I have to. I know what it’s like to work the dog shift.”

Terry sat on the couch across from the deputy. “What’s the reason for your visit?”

“I understand you know a Ms. Natalie Simmons,” Deputy Ducote said as he flipped open his notepad.

Terry blinked rapidly. Hearing Natalie’s name was a shock, not what she was expecting at all. “Yes, I know her. Is she okay?” Terry sat up straight.

“Someone broke into her home yesterday. Nothing was taken, but we believe this might be a stalker situation.”

“But she’s not hurt, right?”

“No, ma’am, she’s fine.”

Terry sank back onto the sofa and almost laughed. “I thought you were about to tell me that one of my brothers or sisters were in jail or worse. Then you mention Natalie and totally threw me.” She sobered and looked at the deputy. “Is she alone, or is someone with her?”

“Andrea Thoreau told me she was going to pick her up when I talked to her yesterday,” Ducote said. “Do you know of anyone that would want to intimidate or hurt Ms. Simmons?”

“I just met her. From what I can tell, she keeps to herself. Aside from Andrea and her neighbor, I haven’t heard her mention anyone else.”

“You’re doing work in her home?”

“Yeah, I put in some flooring, and I’m supposed to paint her ceilings.” Terry tucked her feet beneath her legs to warm them.

“You ever work there without her being around? Maybe noticed someone looking around her place while they thought she was gone?”

The question was carefully worded but simple enough for her to understand what he was really trying to get at. “I’ve been in her home a few times. I had dinner with her neighbor and Andrea. Natalie has been with me anytime I’ve done work for her.”

Ducote smiled. “Andrea is a good friend of mine. If you’re with her, you’re in good company.”

“I’ve done some work for her, too. That’s actually how I met Natalie.”

“So your relationship with Ms. Simmons is strictly business?” Ducote asked.

Taken aback, Terry hesitated before answering. “I consider her a friend.”

Deputy Ducote said nothing as he regarded her for a moment. “And the neighbor, Lyn Stoddard, are you seeing her?”

“No, we’re just friends, too.”

“Well, again, I’m sorry to have woken you.” Ducote stood and Terry followed him to the door. “I just wanted to come by and meet you and see if you could shed light on anything.”

“Thank you for taking the initiative on this thing with Natalie,” Terry said as he stepped out onto the porch. “I know you probably have your hands full with other things.”

Ducote smiled and was about to walk down the steps before he turned. “That’s a fine job you did on her floor, by the way. I may call on you when I’m ready to tackle mine.”

“Come by anytime, and if I’m not here, just tell Clyde. He’ll get word to me.” Terry closed the door the minute he got into his car and walked into her kitchen. She poured herself a glass of orange juice, then called the bookstore. “Is Natalie okay?” she asked when Andrea answered.

“Tom Ducote came to see you bright and early, did he?” Andrea asked.

“Woke me out of a dead sleep.”

“Natalie is fine. Having an alarm system put in today, but I don’t think she’d mind if you gave her a call.”

“I’ll do that.” She set her phone down on the counter and looked out of the floor-to-ceiling kitchen window into the woods behind the cabin. Ducote had a smooth easy style that she was sure had people admitting to things before they even realized they had. She knew what it was like to be interrogated, and though he was polite and charming, she knew that she’d been interrogated again.

Chapter Twenty-one

“I want you to stop,” Lyn said the minute she heard Ellie’s voice.

“Stop what?” Ellie said with a yawn.

“Stop tormenting her, and before you deny it, I recognize your calling cards. I haven’t forgotten what it’s like to be the pawn in your sick games.”

“Or what?” Ellie asked lightly.

“I’ll go to the police this time,” Lyn said, feeling the fool for being led so easily into a match with her former lover.

“Go to the police with what? I’d really like to know.”

“You’ve been in the house. I don’t know how you’re getting in, but I know it’s you,” Lyn said.

“Have you any proof to validate these accusations?” Ellie asked arrogantly. “Because I’ll tell you what, I don’t like playing games, either. My life is going just fine without you, and I’ll not tolerate your harassment. If you keep it up, I may go to the police.”

This was a mistake, Lyn thought to herself. This was exactly what Ellie wanted. She sounded too much like she was expecting the call and was reveling in it. Lyn could picture her evil smile as she toyed with the mouse beneath her paw.

“Leave her out of this.” Lyn bit her lip. The command sounded more like a helpless plea.

“I couldn’t give a shit about her. She’s not worth my time. Frankly, I don’t give a shit about you, either, so whatever you’re playing at, leave me out of it.”

Lyn jerked when Ellie slammed the phone down.

“Good morning,” Natalie said over two barking dogs that were gathered around her legs. She had to yell to get their attention and to keep them from going through the screen door to get at Lyn. They were indeed watch dogs. Both of them leaned against her legs and whimpered as Lyn knelt down and looked at them through the door.

“They’re gorgeous,” she said with a smile. “Have they had breakfast yet because they look like they want leg of Lyn?”

“Andrea says to let them smell anyone I’m going to invite in. Put your hand against the screen and let them have a sniff.”

Lyn timidly put her hand to the screen, and Harley was the first to smell. “What’s your name, pretty puppy?”

“This is Harley.” Natalie gave him a scratch on the back and he relaxed. “His sister’s name is Paisley.”

Lyn held her hand up to Paisley, who gave her a sniff, but unlike Harley, she didn’t relax, nor did she growl, and Natalie took it as a good sign. She opened the door and Lyn stepped in. Harley grinned up at her, showing all his teeth.

“Oh, shit, is he going to bite me?” Lyn moved behind Natalie.

Harley wasn’t the one that worried Natalie but Paisley who watched her warily. “He’s smiling at you,” Natalie said, keeping an eye on Paisley. “She’s okay, girl, she’s a friend.” Natalie reached out and stroked her fur, but Paisley made no move toward Lyn. Instead, she followed Natalie to the sofa and leaned against her leg when she sat.

“Where did you get these rascals?” Lyn asked in a baby voice that drove Harley wild. He nearly jumped into her lap when she sat down.

“No, Harley,” Natalie said in a firm voice like Andrea had taught her, and Harley joined his sister at her legs. “Andrea took me to a shelter and I adopted them.”

“They’re certainly not mutts,” Lyn observed. “What were they doing at a shelter?”

Natalie retold the whole story. “So now I have two watch dogs instead of one. Tell me about you. How’re you feeling today?”

“Fine,” Lyn said with a sniff. “I have a slight sore throat and a runny nose. Other than that, I’m doing good. My germaphobe of a boss won’t let me come back to work until I’m snot-free.”

Natalie looked up as a van pulled into her driveway. “The alarm company people are here.” She watched as both dogs perked up, and the second a car door slammed, they were barking at the door. “Here we go again,” she said as she stood. She clipped both leashes onto their collars and led them to the back door. “I’m going to put them on their cables in the back. Will you let the guy in?” she asked as the dogs protested.

“No problem,” Lyn yelled over the cacophony.

Natalie hooked Paisley first. She went as long as the cable would allow and growled at the back door a few feet away. Harley followed suit the minute she turned him loose. “You two be good.” Natalie knelt and petted them both. “I’ll bring out your Kongs in a minute.” They watched her open the door, and when they heard the male voice inside, they began barking again.

“Natalie, this is Marcus and Paul, they’re the installers,” Lyn said when Natalie walked in. The men looked at Natalie appreciatively, and she felt Lyn come beside her and wrap an arm around her waist. She would’ve laughed at their expressions if she hadn’t been surprised by Lyn’s actions.

“I’d like to go over the work order before we begin just to make sure we have everything correct,” Marcus said. “You want motion sensors in every room, then windows and doors to be wired, as well.”

“Yes.” Natalie nodded.

“And you want a keypad by an exterior door and one in the bedroom, right?”

“That’s right.”

“Which door do you want the keypad next to?” Marcus asked, looking at his paperwork. “It should be the one you use the most to come and go through.”

“I’d like it at the front door. That’s the one I use,” Natalie said. “And I want motion sensor lights near the front and back doors.”

Marcus nodded. “We’ll need to get into the attic and take a look around. Then I’ll be able to give you the final quote.”

Natalie showed them to the attic door. “Will the siren be loud?”

Marcus smiled down at her from the ladder. “It’ll rock the neighborhood. The installation will take most of the morning. It’s company policy to have you here while we work. Will that be a problem if you accept the offer?”

“The lady at your office made that clear,” Natalie said, returning the smile. “I’ll be here all day.”

Natalie and Lyn retreated to the patio after she agreed with the offer and the drilling began. Natalie watched the dogs as they napped in the sun. “I have someone coming by today to give me a quote on a fence,” she said.

“You’re going to make the back of your house even more secluded than it already is.” Lyn blew on her coffee, making the steam rise up.

“I’m not going to use the type that’s around your yard. I think I want a chain-link fence. Just something to keep the dogs in so I can let them out at night to potty.”

“I never go into my backyard. It gives me the creeps even in the daylight.” Lyn shivered. “Vines are growing all over everything, it just looks snakey.”

Natalie studied her profile as she sipped her coffee. “I’ve never been afraid until now.”

“Forgive me, but that’s naïve.” Lyn turned to look at her. “Don’t you watch the news? Horrible things happen every day. I used to be scared of monsters coming out of my closet when I was a little girl. My mother used to tell me that they didn’t exist, but they do, they’re just in human form.”

Natalie looked away and stared at the woods behind her house. “Maybe I am…was naïve before all of this, but I’d like to think that good resides in most people.”

“We pass pure evil every day at the post office, the supermarket, never realizing what that stranger is capable off. Don’t you wonder when you’re in a crowd if you’re rubbing shoulders with a murderer?”

“No, I don’t,” Natalie said with a half laugh. “My mind doesn’t work that way.”

Lyn was staring at her closely when she met her gaze. “You better start thinking that way.”

“I’ve never seen you this way.” She tried to smile. “You’re scaring me a little.”

Lyn smiled and looked away. “Fear keeps us on our toes. I just want you to be on alert.”

Natalie wanted to say, and suspicious of everyone around me, especially Terry. She wasn’t sure if Lyn was a bit jealous of Terry or if she really did sense something that put her ill at ease. She felt something bump her knee and looked down. Harley was staring up at her with a ball in his mouth. “Time for exercise,” she said as she unclipped the dogs from their cables.

Natalie put a tennis ball in the scoop that Andrea picked out and grinned at Lyn. “Watch this.” The dogs sat at her feet with their eyes trained on the ball. She hurled it, sending it flying deep into the backyard. Paisley was the first to retrieve, and her brother showed his displeasure by nipping at her back legs as she ran.

“Oh, let me try it,” Lyn said as she jumped to her feet.

“Hold out your hand and tell Paisley to give you the ball. She’ll drop it in your palm.” Lyn did as Natalie instructed, but the dog stopped two feet away and eyed Lyn. She set the ball down on the ground and backed up until she was next to Harley and sat. Lyn picked up the ball and placed it in the scoop. When she hurled it, the ball zipped through the air so far that Natalie thought it would land in the woods.

Natalie shaded her eyes with her hand against the morning sun and looked up at Lyn. “You’ve got an arm.”

“Don’t let my girlie exterior fool you, babe, I’m rock hard.” She flexed her arm with a laugh. “Really, it’s all in the wrist, let me show you.” She handed the scoop to Natalie and stood behind her. Lyn gripped her wrist while the other came around her waist. Natalie’s breath caught when Lyn’s fingers splayed out across her stomach. “Inhale deeply and let it out when you flick your wrist,” she said against her ear.

Paisley growled low as she watched them.

“Impatient, aren’t you?” Lyn said with a laugh. She pulled Natalie’s arm back. “Now exhale and flick it.”

Natalie hesitated, stunned by the physical contact. The grip on her wrist was strong while the other hand pressed against her stomach, molding their bodies together. Lyn’s mouth was near her ear, and she could feel her breath on her cheek. When she did release the ball, it didn’t go very far. Natalie stepped away embarrassed by the flush she felt on her chest and neck. When she found the courage to glance Lyn’s way, she was staring at her oddly.

Natalie’s house phone rang. “That’s probably the fence guy, lost. Keep my pups occupied for me.” She moved quickly to the back door and up the steps. Her hand shook as she picked up the phone, and leaned heavily against the counter. Her legs were shaking, too, and she knew it wasn’t just from the workout she put them through to get to the phone.

“Hi, Natalie, it’s Terry, I just called to check on you.”

“Hey,” Natalie said with a smile, surprised and pleased to hear Terry’s voice.

“Deputy Ducote paid me a visit, then I called Andrea. I would’ve contacted you sooner if I’d known.”

Natalie listened closely and didn’t hear any animosity in Terry’s voice, but she found herself apologizing anyway. “I’m sorry that I brought you into this. He asked for the names of my friends and—”

“No need to apologize. I’m glad he’s looking into things. Most cops would’ve let it drop the minute they cleared the doorstep. Natalie…”

“Yes?” Natalie asked when she didn’t go on.

“I want you to seriously consider getting a gun.”

She pulled out a bar stool and sat. “I’ve been thinking about it. Officer Ducote gave me the name of someone to talk to.”

“It’s Deputy Ducote. They’re deputies when they’re outside the city limits of Baton Rouge.” Natalie could tell she was smiling. “Andrea told me you’re having an alarm installed today.”

“They’re here now. I put a blanket over the new floor. Do you think that’ll be okay?”

“If not, I’ll do it over again. You’ll just have to put up with me even longer.”

“I enjoy your company,” Natalie admitted with a smile. “But if there are boot marks, they’ll just have to stay. I’m fairly certain that I can come up with enough projects to keep you busy for a while.”

Terry chuckled. “Well, I better get back to bed. It sounds like I’m going to need my strength.”

“I was about to ask why were you awake.”

“I…was worried about you.”

“I’m glad you called. You can call me anytime.” Natalie felt her face grow warm when Terry went silent again.

“Thanks, I will. I’ll be up around noon tomorrow, and I’ll come by and put the final coat of sealer on the floors then if that’s okay.”

“Sure, I look forward to seeing you. Sweet dreams,” Natalie said before she disconnected. As she turned, she noticed Lyn standing near the back door, her expression somber.

“That was Terry,” Lyn said drolly as Natalie joined her.

“Yeah, Andrea told her everything.”

“Are you dating her?” Lyn asked as she averted her gaze.

“No.”

Lyn stuffed her hands in her pockets and stared out at the dogs as they chased each other around the yard. “I think I’ve made it fairly obvious that I’m interested in you.” She looked up at Natalie. “And you’ve made it fairly obvious that you’re interested in her.”

Natalie moved to one of the patio chairs and sank down. “I’ve met two very interesting, attractive women, and I like them both for different reasons.”

“Please say I’m one of them,” Lyn said with a smile as she took a seat.

“You are,” Natalie said seriously. “I have a dilemma. If I chose one of you over the other, then I may lose a friend.”

“I can’t speak for Terry, but you won’t lose my friendship regardless of who you chose. Date us both. You may decide you don’t want either one of us for anything other than friendship.” Lyn laughed. “As lovely as you are, I may decide that I want only to be your friend.”

“I don’t know how I feel about this.” Natalie shook her head. “I’ve never dated more than one woman at a time. If the shoe was on the other foot, I might not like seeing Terry pick you up for a date.”

“Terry’s not my type.” Lyn rolled her eyes. “I just freed myself from relationship hell, and I want to take things very slow. Besides, I don’t mind a little competition. You’ll pick the right one, and I’m sure it’ll be me.”

Natalie shook her head and laughed. “Oh, but you are bold.”

Chapter Twenty-two

After lunch, Marcus asked Natalie to join him at the main keypad. “I want you to think of a four-digit number. I’d advise not to use your birthday or one of someone close to you. Please do not use 1234, that’s the most common. I’ll step away after I set the pad and you key in your number that will allow you to turn the alarm on and off. Which brings me to the next point. Come up with a code word and give it to the main office when you settle the bill. They’ll ask for it anytime the alarm goes off. If what you say isn’t correct, they’ll send the police. Are you ready?”

Natalie nodded. Marcus pushed a configuration of numbers and stepped away, turning his back to her. She keyed in her choice, then said, “okay.”

“We’re going to run some tests, so you may want to cover your ears.” Marcus called out to Paul. “Start in the master bedroom.” The alarm sounded a second later. Natalie covered her ears and joined Lyn in the kitchen where she jotted the number down and slipped it into a drawer. When the house grew quiet again, the dogs were still howling. The alarm went off and on at least a dozen times until she heard Marcus on the phone asking which sector went off and in what order.

He walked into the kitchen a few minutes later and handed Natalie the invoice, which she paid with a credit card while on the phone with the main office. She felt that she lived in a veritable fortress as she let the dogs back in.

“I’ll stay until the fence guy comes, then I’m going home to take a nap,” Lyn said. “I barely slept a wink last night listening for things that went bump in the night.”

“This has been scary for you, too, hasn’t it?” Natalie said, feeling sorry for causing an uproar in Lyn’s life.

Lyn crossed her arms and nodded. “It has. I move into a serene neighborhood and everything goes haywire. If it doesn’t get better, I’m going to develop a complex.” She laughed. “This has certainly helped me cope with my fears of living alone. Kinda like a crash course.” Lyn jumped when the dogs started barking and ran to the door.

“You could get a pair of dogs.” Natalie looked out the window and noticed a truck with Martin Fence decals.

“I just might,” Lyn said over the din.

Later that evening as Natalie sat on the couch reading the manual that came with the alarm system, she marveled at how quiet the house had become. Over the last week, she’d had more traffic than she had since moving in. With the dogs sleeping peacefully on the floor at her feet, there was silence, something Natalie always appreciated in the past. But now, it made her feel on edge. Her senses were on alert listening for anything out of the ordinary.

“Time for treats, then bed,” she said softly as she reached down and stroked the tufts of fur on the dogs’ backs. They looked up at her the minute she said “treats.” She smiled at the quick learners as she stood and stretched.

Each dog was given a biscuit, then she opened the back door and let them out. Paisley stepped into the line of the sensor, and the patio was flooded with light. She and Harley stood looking at Natalie as she stood in the doorway. “Go potty.” She pointed out to the yard, but neither dog moved. With a sigh, Natalie walked down the steps onto the patio, and the dogs shot off like a rocket to do their business.

A damp chill hung in the air that made Natalie’s teeth chatter and her legs ache. “Hurry up,” she called softly. Paisley squatted and peed, then returned to her side and leaned against her leg as they watched Harley frantically sniff one area, then another. Natalie looked down at Paisley, who stared up at her with eyes that didn’t seem quite canine.

She let out a soft growl and a yip at her brother who’d caught scent of something else and was moving deeper into the yard. Natalie could barely make out his white patches of fur as he descended deeper into the darkness. “Harley,” she shouted, but he kept on going.

Paisley was pushing hard against Natalie’s leg. No longer content to sit, she stood and the tufts of fur rose high upon her back. “Go get your brother,”  Natalie said, looking down at her. Paisley looked up and circled her legs. Something in her eyes sent a shiver down Natalie’s spine.

The light that had given her comfort minutes before now caused her to feel like she was on display. Paisley whimpered and pressed harder on her legs, making her take a step back. The dog continued to push until she moved onto the first step. “Is Timmy in the well, girl?” Natalie laughed nervously at her own joke, but the dog at her feet was relentless as it pushed her all the way up to the door. Paisley stood in front of her, keeping contact with her legs as she sniffed at the air and growled low. She let out a bark that was different than when she barked at strangers. It made Natalie even more nervous as she listened, hoping she wouldn’t hear anything.

Paisley turned her head a second later as Harley came bounding into the light. He gave his sister a sniff, then looked up at Natalie with his tongue hanging out of his mouth. Natalie reached behind her and opened the door. She took a step back and held it for the dogs. Harley bounded in and went straight to the water bowl, but Paisley stayed at Natalie’s side until she locked the door.

Natalie knelt down and patted Paisley. “You don’t have a dog’s eyes, you know? They’re more human.” Paisley regarded her as though she understood exactly what was being said. “I don’t know what that was all about out there, but thanks for keeping a close eye on me.”

Like her canine companions, Natalie was a quick learner. The dog beds had been moved to the living room, no longer of use in the bedroom. Both lay on the bed with her. Harley, flat on his back, was sleeping soundly. Paisley lay on her stomach with her muzzle resting on her white-tipped paws studying Natalie as she lay giving half of her concentration to a book. She tossed it on the bedside table and looked at the keypad at the doorway of her bedroom. With the exception of her bedroom, all zones were activated. If there was a breach, she would be able to tell in what area it occurred.

The modicum of safety the system afforded her began to wane as Natalie considered what she would do if the alarm sounded. She would call 911 from the phone beside her bed…and then what? The sound of the siren was supposed to be enough to scare away anyone who would try to break in. It would concern neighbors, especially Lyn, but would anyone come to her assistance while she waited for the police?

She kept the door to her bedroom closed. Would a locked bedroom door be enough to keep her safe until the police arrived? She thought of Keith Kelly then and the anger in his eyes when she took the stand to testify against him. He was clearly furious with her for being the catalyst for his incarceration, as though his actions had nothing to do with him being on trial. He held her responsible for not backing down to the offers his family made for her silence. Was he angry enough to risk going back to prison just to exact his revenge? He’d never been deterred from driving even when his license had been taken away, but was he capable of assault or…murder when not behind the wheel of a car?

Natalie switched off the light and looked at the glowing panel. It did offer comfort, but the real peace came from the two dogs that lay at her side. She looked over at Paisley whose watchful eyes shone in the darkness. Someone was watching over her.

****

Natalie got the message, but she didn’t expect her to be so proactive. She’d seen the locksmith and the reflective sign the alarm company put in the yard letting her know that the game would be far more complicated. The dogs presented the real problem. The male had walked right up to her as she sat in the darkness and took the cookies from her hand. The other wouldn’t be so easily contented.

Natalie had proven that she trusted them to protect her, or she wouldn’t have left the safety of the house at night. Dogs were easy to dispense of. A little antifreeze or rat poison would do the trick.

She was master of the game. She controlled everything that happened, anticipating what move her prey would make next. But this time, she felt that she might not have the control—the patience it took to be the victor. The game was going too fast, and it was her own doing. Usual distractions were no longer gratifying. She wanted to own, to possess. This hunger propelled her to impulsivity, caused her to hide in the woods, hoping for a glimpse of what she coveted.

A cool breeze chilled her skin and with it came clarity. This wasn’t a game any longer. She’d finally found the one. She picked up a twig and snapped it between her fingers. Breaking that indomitable spirit, bending it to her will would be such a rush. She could live day by day watching that strong will twist and turn beneath her grip until Natalie became subservient.

She wanted to kick at the moist ground in anger as she looked at the fortress that now held Natalie inside, but she could leave no evidence of her presence. Ducote had added another complication. He wasn’t dismissive like the others. Natalie Simmons had gotten to him. She exhaled loudly. He’d have to be eliminated first.

Chapter Twenty-three

“I have to agree with Lyn, date them both.” Andrea sat beside Natalie.

“I don’t even know if Terry is really interested.” Natalie stroked Dexter’s orange fur as he lay on the arm of the couch purring his approval.

“She’s not as forthright as fancy pants, but her eyes tell the tale. Like I already told you, she’s very interested. You just have to let her know you are, too.”

“Fancy pants?” Natalie said with a laugh.

“Oh, yes, dinner at your place was a casual thing, but did you notice what she had on?”

Natalie nodded. “She wears a lot of Ralph Lauren. I thought she looked nice.”

“What kind of work does she do?” Andrea stretched her legs out with a groan.

“She works for an office supply company.” Natalie took a sip of her coffee. “Sounds like she does a little bit of everything there.”

“In a corporate office or at an actual store?”

Natalie smiled over the top of her coffee cup. “Why?”

“Because I’ve never seen anyone that works at Office Depot or Staples wearing designer duds.”

“It’s a local company,” Natalie said.

Andrea smiled knowingly. “A mom and pop operation. I bet no one there wears designer duds, either. I bet she’s got credit card debt out the wazoo because I doubt she makes a whole lot at that job. Gotta watch a woman like that. They like to be the center of attention, very insecure.”

“It’s kind of funny that I find these two women attractive,” Natalie said, dismissing Andrea’s comments. Andrea favored Terry, and Lyn didn’t stand a chance with her. “Terry’s butch and Lyn is on the completely other end of the spectrum.”

“I don’t know if I’d define Terry as butch. She’s actually kind of pretty in her own right. I’d have to classify her as sporty.” Andrea sighed. “Then again, I’m not up on the labeling system used nowadays. So which one is stoking your fire the most?” Andrea asked with a grin.

“Terry, but I think it’s because she’s so aloof, and there’s just something about her that makes me feel…safe.” Natalie took the last swallow of her coffee and stared at the chocolate in the bottom of her cup. “I worry that’s the real appeal because of what’s going on in my life right now.”

“It’s bizarre, I’ll grant you that.” Andrea swallowed the last of her coffee. “What does Keith Kelly look like? I wanna know what to look for.”

Natalie could see his face so clearly in her mind. Anger stirred deep within. He was the only plausible suspect in her mind. On the day she walked out of the courtroom, she believed that would be the last she would ever have to see of him, and she was thankful. What if he really was responsible for terrorizing her? Couldn’t it have been enough that he’d taken the life of someone she cared for?

“He’s the all-American rich kid. Sandy blond hair, brown eyes, perfect teeth, the heartthrob of many a straight girl, I’m sure.” The thought of him turned Natalie’s stomach.

“Tom’s gonna do a little digging on him. Find out what he’s been up to lately. Gonna have to be discreet because Daddy Kelly will make trouble if he finds out. If that boy gets his ass in a sling again, I imagine his poppa will have to sell half of his car dealerships and a restaurant or two just to defend him.”

“I don’t want to have to go through all that again.” Natalie rested her head on the back of the couch. “I hope the alarm and the dogs are enough to keep him away.”

Andrea squeezed Natalie’s arm. “Tom will take care of it. Wait and see.”

Though she had the alarm and dogs, Natalie dawdled on the way home, unwilling to enter her house alone. She stopped at a nursery and bought a few pots of mums and a couple of pumpkins to decorate her porch. By the time she pulled into her driveway, Terry’s truck was already there. Natalie pulled up alongside her and smiled.

Terry climbed out of the truck as Natalie got out of her car. They could hear the dogs barking inside. Terry’s eyes narrowed as she listened to them carrying on. “Do you have a wolf pack in there?”

“Just two and I should warn you that Paisley, the female, is kind of standoffish. Oh, and Harley smiles, so if he shows you his teeth, it’s nothing to worry about.”

Terry followed her to the trunk of her car and lifted the pumpkins out while Natalie grabbed the mums. They walked up to the porch where Natalie set the pots on the steps and directed Terry to put the pumpkins on the ground. “I’ll decide how to arrange all of this later.” She grabbed the handrail and made her way up. “You should let them sniff you at first. They’ll calm down if you do.” Natalie unlocked the door and stepped inside to silence the alarm chime. The dogs pushed past her and studied the stranger on the porch.

Terry knelt and offered her hand to them. Harley, of course, was the first to approach. After the cursory sniff, he enjoyed some vigorous neck rubs. Paisley circled Terry as she and Harley bonded. Natalie watched as she tentatively sniffed Terry’s hand and moved in for the same treatment her brother was getting.

“Huh,” Natalie said as she watched both dogs clamor for Terry’s attention. “You’re the first person aside from Andrea that Paisley has let get close to her.”

“I had dogs as a child.” Terry stood as Paisley and Harley circled her yipping for more attention.

“Well, back up, guys, and let her in the house.” Natalie pushed the door open and waited for Terry to pass through. The dogs followed behind her without so much as a glance in Natalie’s direction. “Are your pockets stuffed with Milkbones or something?” Natalie watched Terry sit on the floor, letting the dogs crawl all over her.

“No, you can check if you want.” She smiled up at her without a hint of a blush. “They sure are vicious.”

“Yeah,” Natalie said with a hand on her hip. “They’re practically licking your arms off.”

Terry talked softly and petted the dogs until they calmed, then she pulled back the blanket and took a look at the floor. “I’m glad you waited for it to dry before you laid this. We may have to put the dogs in the bedroom while I lay the last of the sealer, or you’ll have permanent paw prints on your floor.”

“How long will it take to dry?” Natalie asked as she folded the blanket.

“A while, which will present a problem with the pups.”

Natalie looked at Terry apologetically. “I didn’t think about that when we made plans to do this. I should’ve waited until I had the fence up. They were supposed to come tomorrow and install, but I got a call this morning saying they were delayed on a job. I won’t have the fence until next week.”

Terry shrugged and smiled. “It’s not like I live a long way off. I could come back next week, or I can do the painting.”

“Are you hungry? I could at least make you something to eat.”

“How about we order a pizza and eat it on the patio?” Terry pulled out her cell phone. “I have Jack’s on speed dial.”

“I love their pizza. Order anything you want on it. I eat it all,” Natalie said with a smile.

“A large ‘all the way’ then.”

As Terry made the call, Natalie pulled two cold beers from the fridge and opened the back door for the dogs. She smiled as they shot out like two rockets chasing and biting each other. Terry appeared at Natalie’s side and took the offered beer. They walked out onto the patio and sat at the table.

“So you think you’ll stay in the area for a while?”

Terry took a long pull from her beer and relaxed, leaning her head against the back of the chair. “I really like it. Everything you need is right around the corner, but it still feels like the small town it did when I was a kid. I’m certainly willing to give it a try.”

“Do you really like to move around or have you been running from something more than siblings, like an ex, maybe?”

Terry looked surprised by the question. A small smile creased her face.

Natalie raised her brow, waiting for the answer.

“I’ve never given any of my exes a reason to hate me. I like change, and there’s never been anything to tie me to one spot or another. When I get tired of a place, I move on.”

Natalie liked the way Terry met her eyes when she answered her questions. She also liked the way Terry tossed her head to the side when her bangs fell into her eyes, something she did often. Idly, she wondered how much beer she’d have to ply Terry with to get her to open up.

“So tell me about your date on Friday night,” Natalie said with a smirk.

Terry laughed and tucked the errant strand of hair that had been hanging in her eyes behind her ear. “I lied about that. Lyn’s just one of those people I like to screw with. She doesn’t like me.”

“I think if the circumstances were different, she would.” Natalie smiled as she watched Paisley crouch and wait for her brother to pass before she jumped him. When she looked back at Terry, she was staring at her with an expectant expression. “I think Lyn’s jealous.”

“Because she likes you and she thinks you like me.”

“I do like you,” Natalie said with a shy smile. “I’ve admitted that, and she suggested that I date you both, but I don’t know how you feel.”

Terry smiled genuinely. “I’d hoped that you were interested, but I didn’t want to assume.” She looked away as the smile slipped from her face. “Have you dated anyone since…?”

“No, I haven’t dated anyone since Karen died.” She took a sip of her beer. “But I think it’s time.”

Terry looked at her. “I’d love to date you, but if at any time you feel uncomfortable, you only need to say it once.”

“Thanks for that. I don’t want to hurt anyone.”

“What was Karen like?” Terry asked as she watched the dogs.

“She was human, loaded with faults like the rest of us.” Natalie followed Terry’s gaze. “When someone dies, we only want to remember their shining moments, what made them great, memorable. I did that for a while, but one day, I realized that maybe I was doing her memory an injustice. Then again, maybe I was doing myself an injustice by thinking of her that way. Karen was hot-tempered. Though her fury was never directed at me, she broke things. She was forgetful, never could find her keys. She quit smoking when we met because I hated it, but there were times I smelled it on her breath or clothes,” and she wasn’t in love with me.

Terry was thoughtful for a moment before saying, “I have my share of faults.”

“Yeah, what are they?” Natalie flashed a smile.

“I have a mouth full of sweet teeth, sometimes I’ll choose a candy bar over a meal. I’m organized on one hand, but I procrastinate on the other.” Terry made a face. “I hate getting an inspection sticker. I’ve gotten tickets just because I didn’t want to take the time. When I’m at work, I’m a perfectionist to a fault. I’m always running behind everyone else. It takes me a long time to get angry, but when I do, I need to be left alone because my tongue is sharp.”

“You don’t sound so bad.” Natalie took a sip of her beer.

“Your turn. Tell me all of your shortcomings.”

“Ah, the list is too long,” Natalie said with a sigh. “I guess my biggest issue is denial. I tend to turn a blind eye to things I don’t want to see.”

Terry shook her head. “Not fair, we all do that. We may pride ourselves into thinking that we know what’s going on all around us, but we don’t. Everyone has been caught in that sting a time or two.”

Natalie silently agreed. “What was your last relationship like?”

The dogs began barking and Paisley began to run toward Natalie as Harley bolted to the side of the house. “I’ll bet that’s the pizza,” Terry said as she stood. “Wait here and I’ll get Harley.”

Natalie watched as Terry jogged around the house. She could hear her calling Harley back and his barking stop. Paisley growled but stayed at Natalie’s side. “So this is how you two work. He does all the charging and you fall back and protect me.” Natalie scratched Paisley behind the ears and the dog relaxed and leaned against her leg.

“The pizza guy wouldn’t get out of his car,” Terry said with a laugh as she appeared and set the pizza on the table. She put a hand out as Natalie moved to stand. “I think I can find the napkins and beer.” When she returned, she set two beers on the table and opened the pizza box. “Now where were we?” she asked as she handed Natalie a slice.

“You were about to tell me about your last relationship.” Natalie smiled as she sat back and took a bite.

“It was so short I don’t really remember anything about it,” Terry said with a smile.

“Have all of your relationships been short-lived?”

Terry chose that moment to take a healthy bite. Her eyes glinted with a grin as she chewed.

“I’m willing to wait until you finish the entire pizza if I have to.”

Terry finished chewing and took a sip of beer. “Pretty much all of them have been brief. It’s like trying on shoes—some fit too tight, some not at all, then there are others that just rub you the wrong way and you’re not sure why.”

Natalie laughed at the analogy. “So you never found any that fit?”

Terry held up a finger. “Just one and she made it difficult to find anyone that fit as well.”

“What made her so special?” Natalie took her last bite and tossed the crust into the box. The dogs weren’t amused.

“I dunno, really. We had a lot in common and I thought we both wanted the same things, but I was wrong. I came home from work one day and her car was full of boxes. She said she wasn’t sure what she was looking for, but I wasn’t it, in so many words. She lied, though. I saw her in a store a month later with someone. I wanted to know what made that woman so special, so I followed them to a neighborhood with neatly trimmed lawns to a big brick house. I guess the tiny apartment I was providing wasn’t enough, even though she didn’t work.”

“Did you confront her?”

“I drove away, and I never looked back.” Terry took a swig of her beer. “A year and a half later, she left a message on my voice mail, said she missed me. I never called back.”

“Must’ve taken a lot of discipline on your part not to at least call her.”

“I thought about it a lot, but Mr. Roundtree said if I did, he’d knock some sense into me. I spent about six months whimpering over her and he’d had enough.”

Natalie smiled. “He sounds like a real character.”

“He was,” Terry said with a nod. “He was killed in a boating accident a year after that.” Terry’s tone grew somber and low. “I mourned for him more than I did for my mom.”

“I’m sorry,” Natalie said sincerely.

Terry was looking down at her shoes. “I know you are. You know what it’s like to lose someone special.”

They ate in silence for a while, then Natalie began throwing the ball for the dogs. When she tired, Terry took over and eventually took to the yard where she roughhoused with them until they were exhausted.

Terry stayed for a good part of the afternoon, but as the sun began its descent, she told Natalie it was time for her to go. “I’m off tomorrow night if you’d like to go to dinner, or if you’d prefer to go this weekend, I’m off then, too.” Terry was standing on the front porch holding the rest of the pizza that Natalie demanded she take.

Natalie leaned against the door frame and smiled. “Either one is fine with me.”

“The sooner the better then. I’ll pick you up at seven. We can have dinner and maybe go see a movie if you’d like.”

“I’ll be ready.” Natalie watched Terry walk down her driveway and climb into her truck. Though the light was waning, she could see her smile.

Natalie had no sooner closed the door and prepared to feed the dogs when she heard a knock. She looked out the window and noticed Lyn waving at her. “Come in,” she said with a smile as she opened the door.

“I can’t stay but a minute.” Lyn stepped in and closed the door behind her. “I saw Terry leave just now,” she said, looking at the unfinished floor. “I thought she was going to work on this.”

“She was, but we realized that it wouldn’t be a good idea until the fence was installed and I could keep the dogs out until it dried.”

“Did she ask you out? For the weekend?” Lyn added the last part quickly when Natalie looked at her oddly. “Because I was hoping you’d have dinner with me Friday night.”

“We’re umm…actually going out tomorrow night.”

“Good, then you’re free Friday?”

Natalie nodded.

Lyn smiled and took a step closer, pulling Natalie in her arms. “Let me be the first to give you this then.” The kiss was gentle and sweet at first, but as Lyn pulled her closer, Natalie felt a fire begin to burn in the pit of her stomach. When they pulled apart, Natalie gasped partly in surprise and breathless from the heat generated by the kiss that lasted less than a minute.

Lyn smiled as she backed away. “When you kiss Terry, and I know you will, I hope it doesn’t compare because that was hot. We have chemistry, and I know you felt it.”

Natalie heard those words play through her head on an endless loop as she lay in bed that night. Lyn was right—they did have chemistry, and the reaction it caused still burned hot hours later. And then she thought of Terry, who had not so much as hugged her, nevertheless she felt her blood heat when Terry’s face appeared in her mind’s eye. Maybe she just longed for another’s touch after surviving an emotional and physical drought. It felt great to be the center of attention, to be desired by more than one woman, but there was a part of her that wished she didn’t have to choose.

It certainly took her mind off her problems. She wondered if it all might be over. The alarm sign was in the yard, the motion sensors were working, and her protectors lay at her side.

Chapter Twenty-four

“Wake up.”

“What do you want, Ellie?” Lyn looked at her alarm clock. It was five in the morning—thirty minutes earlier than she needed to get up. She’d considered getting a new cell number but thought better of it. Calls like the one she was on now were always filled with hints as to what Ellie had been up to. If she cut communication off altogether, she had no doubt that Ellie would retaliate, and that was something that made her skin crawl even more than hearing her voice.

“I want you to be nice,” Ellie said through gritted teeth. “Did you think I wouldn’t be able to find you if you moved?”

“You know exactly where I live. You’ve proved as much.” Lyn bit her lip as she sat up and switched on the light.” She’d forgotten to stay calm, but then again, Ellie always had a way of making her lose her cool.

“I watch her, you know.”

Lyn swallowed, hoping that her voice wouldn’t reveal the terror that statement evoked. “I know. She hasn’t done anything to you. Why can’t you leave her alone?”

“Because she means something to you. You can break it off, but we both know that won’t protect her. Your feelings for her are as obvious as the nose on your face.”

Lyn knew if she said more she would be giving Ellie the satisfaction she wanted. It was the reason she called first thing that morning. Ellie knew that she would spend her day unsettled about the way it began. “I need to get up and shower. It’ll be time for me to leave for work soon.”

“Cocky bitch, I know your schedule better than you know it yourself. Sometimes, you need to be reminded of just how close I can get to you. When you sit on the sofa this morning eating toast and sipping coffee, open your window and enjoy the view for a change.”

“Shit!” Lyn said the minute she heard the call end. She raced into the living room and peeked out of the curtain. She fully expected to see Ellie standing in her driveway. She breathed a sigh of relief when she didn’t see her familiar form, but her breath caught as she noticed her car leaning toward the passenger’s side. The front tire was flat, and she knew without a doubt that it had been slashed.

The sun hadn’t risen, she noted as she pulled on a pair of sweatpants. Perhaps she could get it changed before anyone stirred and noticed it. She opened the front door and hesitated a moment, listening for any noise out of the ordinary. She’d changed a tire once and tried to remember the sequence of the steps as she walked out and popped the trunk. “Loosen the lug nuts first, then jack it up,” she whispered to herself. She felt a modicum of relief as she picked up the tire tool. At least she’d have something in her hand if Ellie were waiting to make a move.

“I need to speak to Tom Ducote.” Natalie stared out her living room window. “Someone has slashed all four tires on my car,” she said the minute she heard his voice. He assured her that he would be there shortly and gave her strict instructions to stay in the house until he arrived.

She called Andrea next. “Hey, I’m just calling to let you know I won’t be able to come by this morning,” Natalie said in a rush. “I have some things to do, and I didn’t want you to worry.”

“What’s wrong?”

“Nothing.” Natalie grimaced as she lied.

“I can hear it in your voice.”

Natalie could hear Andrea’s keys jingling and Dexter meowing for his breakfast. “I can tell you’re just getting into the store. How about I call you a little later?”

“Not until you tell me what’s bothering you.”

Natalie put a hand to her forehead. Tom would probably tell Andrea, then there would be hell to pay. “I don’t want you getting upset. I’m fine…but my tires have been slashed.”

“Son of a bitch. Stay in the house. I’ll be there in a minute.”

Natalie looked down at the dogs that stood flanking her. “We’re about to have a lot of company.”

Natalie kept the blinds drawn but peered through the slats. Normally, she could just make out the top of Lyn’s car in her driveway over the fence, but it was gone. It was eight thirty, and Lyn always left well before then.

Natalie moved into the kitchen and put on a pot of coffee. As she returned to her post at the window, she noticed two police cars coming up the drive. Andrea was behind them and pulled off into the yard. She got out and walked toward Tom with a lot more speed than Natalie had ever seen her move.

Her fingers shook as she turned off the alarm and stepped out onto the porch. Her car very nearly sat on the ground. Tom walked toward her with Andrea behind him ranting all the way. “This is more than a stalker, Tom. This is malicious damage to property. You have to have somebody patrol this street.”

“Hello, Ms. Simmons,” he said as he put one booted foot on the first step and looked up at her. “Are you okay?”

“I’m a little shaken up as you might imagine.” Natalie pointed to the new motion sensor light on her porch. “I can’t imagine that someone was brazen enough to do this under a spotlight.”

Andrea walked slowly up the three steps and took Natalie in her arms. They watched as Tom looked up and grimaced. Natalie and Andrea as one walked onto the top step and peered up at the light. The cover at the mount was dangling and they could see the cut wire.

“Mitch,” Tom called out. “See if you can pull anything from this.”

“I’ll try,” the deputy said, but the morning dew has made a mess of everything.”

“Ms. Simmons, why don’t we step inside?” Tom said as he moved up the steps.

Natalie went to the kitchen and began pouring cups of coffee. She thought if she had something to busy her hands, then she might not burst into tears because that’s exactly what she felt like doing. She wanted to turn loose the dam that held back her frustration, her fear.

“I don’t suppose you heard anything?” Tom asked as she moved a cup across the bar toward him.

“Not a sound. The dogs didn’t stir, either, though they might’ve if they’d been loose in the house.” Natalie leaned against her cabinet and folded her arms. “I keep them in the bedroom so they won’t activate the motion sensors.”

“You know they’re heat sensitive, right?” Tom looked at Natalie. “They recognize your body temperature and that of the dogs and won’t go off if you move around.”

“They did tell me that, yes,” Natalie said. “But I keep the dogs in my room anyway. It makes me feel safer.”

“Tom, now this is getting crazy. You’ve got to do something,” Andrea demanded.

“I know, Andrea.” He held up a hand. “I know you’re worried, but consider that even though her tires were slashed, whoever it was didn’t try to get into the house.”

Andrea let out a heavy breath through her nostrils, making them flare. “That bastard was in her yard. He cut wires to the light. What makes you think he wasn’t looking for a way in? What if he cuts—”

“Don’t finish that statement,” Natalie said as she paled.

“The siren would activate. Most all alarms are programmed to do that if the phone line is cut,” Tom said, looking at Natalie.

Natalie heard the front door open, and all three looked up as Terry came into the kitchen with a wild look in her eyes.

“I called her when you called me.” Andrea looked back at Natalie. “You know what they say, ‘strength in numbers.’ Terry, did you see that shit in the driveway?”

Terry’s focus was solely on Natalie as she nodded. “Are you okay?”

Natalie nodded, though she wished she could tell the truth and sink into Terry’s embrace, knowing that she would feel protected there.

Terry looked over at Tom and put out her hand. “Deputy Ducote,” she said with a nod as he shook her hand. She squeezed Andrea on the shoulder and moved closer to Natalie. The arm she slipped around Natalie’s waist was soothing.

“I have Mitch outside trying to find prints.” Tom shook his head. “It’s an exercise in futility, I know, but I want him to try anyway. Have you talked to your neighbor this morning, maybe she heard or saw something?”

Natalie shook her head. “She’s already left for work, and if Lyn would’ve heard anything, I would have been the second person she called after 911.”

Tom scratched at his chin and regarded Andrea. “With these new developments, I should have no problem having a patrol assigned to this street now, but I have to be upfront and tell you that they can’t camp on your doorstep.”  He held up a hand before Andrea could respond. “We’re a small leg of the department, and if there’s something they have to work, they’ll have to leave, but I’ll try to keep them out here as much as I can.”

He looked back at Natalie. “Is there someone you can stay with while I look into a few things?”

“I’m not leaving my home,” Natalie said as her jaw trembled. “He’s already taken too much from me.”

“I’ll stay,” Terry offered.

“I will, too, when Terry has to work nights.” Andrea squeezed Natalie’s arm. “For as long as it takes. But, Tom, if you have one shred, an inkling, that this is Keith Kelly, you better bust his balls, or I will.”

If Tom thought Andrea’s threat was ridiculous, he didn’t let on. Something in the elderly woman’s eyes made it clear that she fully intended to carry out her threat.

“No, I’m staying,” Andrea protested. “The bookstore be damned. I’ve got enough in the bank to take care of me if I closed it today.”

“I’ll be just fine, Andrea,” Natalie said from where she sat next to Terry on the couch.

“She will,” Terry agreed. “I’ll be here all day and night. I work the day shift tomorrow and the next, but I’ll come here straight from work. And if Natalie doesn’t feel comfortable here alone during the day, I’ll take vacation.”

Andrea banged the rubber tip of her cane on the floor. “This is so out of hand.”

“She’ll be okay.” Terry took Natalie’s hand. “I’ll take care of her, I promise.”

“I’m gonna call Edwin, that’s Clyde’s cousin. He owns a car repair shop, and he’ll put new tires on the car. Give you a good deal, too.” She pointed her cane at Terry. “I’m gonna take you at your word.”

Natalie stood and gave Andrea a hug. “Thank you for coming over, and thanks for calling Terry, too.”

Andrea stroked the side of Natalie’s face with the back of her hand like a mother would a child. “You keep that cell phone handy. When I call, I want to hear your voice.” She pressed a kiss against Natalie’s cheek and left, shaking her fist as she passed Natalie’s car in the driveway.

Tom Ducote was sitting in the parking lot of Andrea’s bookstore when she arrived. He got out of his car and waited for Andrea to get out of hers. “I’d like to talk to you if you have a minute.”

“Well, Tom, don’t you see the crowds lined up just waiting to get in my store?” He smiled as he looked around the deserted parking lot.

“Want coffee?” Andrea unlocked the door and walked in with Tom in tow.

“I could use another cup.”

“Good, the pot’s in the back. Whip us both up some while I get my shit together.” Tom shook his head and made his way to the back of the store. She opened her safe and slipped the cash drawer into the register while Dexter meowed at her feet. “I know, I forgot.” Andrea pulled a bag out food from beneath the counter and filled his bowl. “I guess by the way you’re yowling this morning, you didn’t catch a mouse last night.” Dexter replied with a flick of his tail as he buried his face in the bowl.

Dexter had finished his breakfast and Andrea had made her call to Edwin when Tom returned with their coffees. “Ed and his son are gonna go by Natalie’s in a few and take care of her car.”

Tom took a few quick sips of his coffee before he set the cup on the counter. He leaned on his elbows and took a long hard look at Andrea. “I’ve known you for a long time, and I trust your instincts. I have to ask you something, and I want an honest answer.”

“Never lied to you before, Tom.” Andrea took a seat on her stool. “Out with it.”

“Has it ever crossed your mind that Natalie might be doing these things herself for attention?” Andrea’s jaw dropped. Her eyes widened, then narrowed as she stared back at him. Silence hung tensely in the air between them. “She’s been alone for a while, and now she has everyone swarming around her to help.”

“That just pisses me off.” Andrea’s voice was low. “If Clyde Bordelon were experiencing the same thing, would you wonder this way about him?”

“Clyde didn’t lose his wife and spend all of his time cooped up in a house alone. I have to consider all possibilities, Andrea, you know that.”

“No.” Andrea shook her head. “No indeed. I feel it in my bones that Natalie is telling the truth.” She pointed a finger in Tom’s face. “I warned you about Brady Simoneaux and you laughed in my face along with everyone else. He’d gone through all those head tests you people have to take to become cops and passed with flying colors. Maybe if y’all had paid attention to what my bones were crying out, he might not’ve shot and killed that kid who had nothing more than an iPod in his pocket.”

Tom pulled off his hat and combed his fingers through his graying hair. “That’s the problem here. I can’t go on my gut or your bones. Brady Simoneaux was a loose cannon. That’s what my gut said, too, but there were no incidents prior to that shooting, and I couldn’t go to my captain with just a feeling. He’s going to ask me what I’m asking you now when I tell him that I want to check up on Keith Kelly. I’ve got nothing more than a gut feeling that girl is in trouble, and your bones don’t count for shit in the eyes of the captain.”

“Natalie is telling the truth,” Andrea said resolutely. “I bet my eyes on it. If Natalie was your daughter, Tom, you’d find a way around your captain.” Andrea folded her arms and took a shuddering breath. “She may not be my flesh and blood, but she’s my kid, and if anything happens to her on your watch, I’ll never forgive you.”

“With the exception of buying this house, I have never spent so much money in such a short time. An alarm, fence, new tires. Keith Kelly may very be well getting his revenge one penny at a time.” Natalie looked across the kitchen table at Terry. “What next? Burn the house down?”

Terry shook her head. “We won’t let that happen.”

Natalie slumped in her chair, her mood dour, wishing she could adopt Terry’s confident attitude.

Terry turned and looked at her. “Want to get out? We could go have lunch somewhere and not let this bastard rob us of a beautiful day.”

Natalie tilted her head to the side and regarded Terry. “I bet you had something you wanted to do today and now you’re stuck here babysitting me.”

“Our date was the only thing I was looking forward to.” Terry smiled and leaned back in her chair. “I was trying to think of the perfect restaurant and movie. Now I have to fill the whole day with something impressive. Oh, the pressure,” Terry said dramatically and filled her hands with her hair. “I don’t think I can impress you with a game of Scrabble. I was never that good at spelling.”

Natalie laughed despite her foul mood. “There is one thing I want to do. I want you to teach me how to shoot.”

Terry smoothed her hair. “We’ve talked about that. I think you should have a professional teach you.”

“I want to do it with you first. If I feel comfortable after I fire the gun, then I’ll consider going for lessons. Right now, today, I need to know if I can squeeze the trigger.”

Terry looked at her for a moment, then nodded. “Well, if it gets you out of this house, then I’m game.”

Natalie was kind of surprised as she walked through Terry’s cabin. Since Terry admitted that she moved around a lot, Natalie figured it would be sparse and utilitarian, but that was not the case. The bookshelf in the den next to the fireplace was crammed with books. Plants in decorative pots took up every space in front of nearly every window. A rug with a southwestern theme covered the den floor. Matching pillows tied it in with the dark blue leather of the couch.

Natalie walked into the kitchen where the dogs were following Terry’s every move. “Did you give them a treat?” Natalie asked with a smile.

Terry looked at her innocently. “No…maybe.”

“They’re not supposed to eat table scraps.”

Terry clamped her lips together forming a straight line as she peered up at the ceiling. “Is roast beef really considered a table scrap?”

“Okay, people food. No people food.”

“I was bribing them.” Terry put a bowl of water down on the floor. “They’re probably going to be afraid when we start shooting. They needed something to calm their nerves, at least that’s what Paisley said.”

“Will roast beef calm my nerves?” Natalie asked.

“Are you afraid?” Terry’s expression grew serious as she looked at Natalie.

“Nervous, but not afraid.”

“Then let’s get it over with.” Terry picked up a green metal box. “The more we put it off, the more nervous you’ll become.” She turned the TV on and the volume up loud. “This will muffle some of the sound. I imagine we’ll have to look for them when we come back in. I’m sure they will find a hiding place when the noise starts.”

Natalie followed Terry behind the cabin and looked at the elaborate target with a four-foot cement wall behind it. “Clyde built this just so you could target practice?”

“Not for me,” Terry said. “His son used to live here and is an avid outdoorsman. He used to site his rifles out here, and he did some practice shooting, as well.” Terry pointed to the woods behind the target. “Clyde says the woods go on for miles, but you never know when someone is hunting back there.”

“Which direction is my house in?” Natalie watched Terry unlock the box and take out the gun.

“It’s west. If you started walking directly off my front porch, you would probably end up in your backyard.”

“Have you ever walked it just to see?” Natalie looked at the trees around them.

Terry laughed and shook her head. “Not this time of the year. It’s deer season. If I actually made it through the marsh, I’d probably show up with a dozen arrows in my hide. I’ve seen a lot of bow hunters out here, and most of them are kids. They make me nervous.”

Nervous was something Natalie could relate to as Terry handed her a pair of safety glasses and a packet of earplugs. “This is a .38 revolver. I prefer it over an automatic because they seldom jam. Plus you can see all the rounds in the cartridge.” Terry spun it as she talked, and Natalie could see all the bullets. “Never take that for granted, though. I’m going to shoot first, so you can see how loud it is, then you’ll know what to expect.”

Terry laid the gun down, opened her earplugs, and inserted them into her ears. Natalie mimicked Terry and squished the foam into her own ears. Natalie could still hear Terry as she talked, but the sound was muffled. She put on her safety glasses after Terry put on hers and watched as Terry clipped a paper target to the foam pillar in front of the wall.

“I want you to stand back and just to my left so you’re still in my line of sight. When I finish shooting, I’ll put the gun down, then it’ll be safe to approach.”

Natalie nodded and watched Terry pick up the gun again and walk over to the target. She squared her shoulders and aimed. The first crack made her jump. Terry lowered the gun and looked at her. “You okay?” Natalie gave her a thumbs-up and Terry raised the gun. In rapid succession, she fired the remaining rounds into the target, then laid the gun down on a stump that served as a table.

Natalie pulled the plugs from her ears and walked up to the target. All six holes were clustered in the small black circle in the middle of the paper. “How long did it take you to learn how to do this?”

“You don’t have to be a marksman to be lethal with a gun. You aim at center body mass.” Terry ran her hand over the front of her body. “Aim for the chest, never the head. Go for the larger target.” Terry replaced the paper target with a fresh one.

Natalie looked in the gap between the foam block and the wall. “I expected to see bullets back here.”

“The block absorbs everything we shoot, but just in case one slips past the goalie, the wall is supposed to keep it from going farther. Are you ready to take a turn?” Terry asked when Natalie walked up to her.

Natalie planted her hands on her hips. “I think I am,” she said with a nod.

“We’re not going to concentrate on stance. You’ll learn all that when you take a gun safety course. This is just to get you acquainted with a firearm.” Terry picked up the gun again. “I’m checking the cylinder to make sure the gun is unloaded.” She held it up so Natalie could see her spinning the cylinder. “Now if you’ll step over here, I’ll show you how to stand and hold it.”

“When I take a course?” Natalie said with a smile. “You sound pretty certain that I’m going to like this and want to learn more.”

Terry returned her smile and tugged Natalie by the elbow until she was standing with her back to her. “Stand with your feet shoulder width apart with the right leg slightly farther back than the left.

Natalie flinched when Terry’s hands came to rest upon her hips. “Inhale and exhale when you pull the trigger.”

Natalie was reminded of the day before when Lyn was teaching her to hurl the ball with the scoop. She relaxed slightly when Terry released her and stepped away. She depressed the trigger, feeling the bullet leave the gun. She had managed to hit the paper but was nowhere near the outermost ring of the circle.

“Again, keep firing until all the bullets are spent.” Natalie inhaled and did as she was told. Her hands felt like they were vibrating when the weapon fell silent. Though she did not hit the bull’s-eye, she did manage to hit the target within the circles. Terry reached up and clasped her wrist with one hand and took the gun in the other. “Like I said, you don’t have to be a marksman to be lethal.”

“It’s a powerful feeling, isn’t it?” Natalie turned to look at Terry.

Terry smiled as she filled the chambers. She handed the gun back to Natalie. “Again.”

“So what do you think? You wanna take some classes?” Terry asked as they walked back into the cabin.

“Definitely, I really enjoyed it more than I thought I would.” Natalie looked around the den. “I don’t think the dogs cared much for it, though.” She whistled and they could hear their nails clicking on the wooden floor as they came out of Terry’s bedroom. Both were walking low to the ground until Natalie knelt and they ran toward her for pets.

Terry took the lockbox into her bedroom and returned a moment later. “How about lunch?”

“Yes, I’m starving.” Natalie stood. “There’s not a lot of choices out here unless you want a burger from McDonald’s.”

“Actually, I was thinking about roast beef sandwiches on the porch,” Terry said with a smile.

Chapter Twenty-five

Alone with her thoughts, she wondered about Ducote. After that morning, he would be forced to follow the Kelly lead. He would learn as she had that Keith Kelly had been in the Virgin Islands on his honeymoon for the past three weeks and wouldn’t be returning home for at least another week. “Must be nice to be rich,” she said angrily. She’d hoped to sweeten the trail toward Keith, but that wasn’t to be. Now Ducote would dig deeper, and he’d find the link.

She wasn’t sure how things had gotten so out of whack. She’d spent too much time thinking about the prey than planning the next step. She held the T-shirt up to her nose and breathed in deeply. The scent aroused and angered her at the same time. She was tired of waiting.

She’d made a mental checklist of things that needed to be done and had already completed the first. It gave her great pleasure to call her lazy-assed supervisor and tell her that she wasn’t coming back. The bitch actually had the nerve to complain that she gave no notice. Her reply brought a smile to her face even now. “If you were going to fire me or lay me off, you wouldn’t give me a notice, so why should I be expected to extend such a courtesy? What really pisses you off is that you’ll have to handle the phones until you find my replacement. Suck it, bitch.”

It was time to move to item two, and that was a biggie, something she’d never done before. She’d done her homework, knew just how to eliminate the deputy. The rest would be easy after that.

****

Terry walked in the back door with the dogs on her heels as Natalie walked into the kitchen. “Did they both potty?” Natalie asked as she slipped her earring into her earlobe.

“They both did their business and promise to be good while we’re out.” Terry’s gaze moved over Natalie as she spoke. “You look…very sexy.”

Natalie blushed at the compliment. She’d spent most of the afternoon debating on what to wear and finally chose a red lightweight sweater and a pair of jeans. She looked at Terry’s black boots and jeans. The black button-down shirt she wore made her eyes look even darker as they regarded her. “You look pretty hot yourself.”

Terry pointed down at her watch. “We need to leave now if we’re going to make the movie on time.”

Natalie set the alarm for the doors and windows, leaving the dogs free to roam the house. She noticed that Lyn’s house was dark, and her car wasn’t in the driveway. She was pleased that Lyn wouldn’t see her leaving with Terry. Although, Lyn had said she should date both of them, it still made her uncomfortable.

“You smell good,” Terry said as she pulled out of the driveway. “What are you wearing?”

“Blue by Ralph Lauren. Don’t get too used to it. I heard that it’s been discontinued, and I have trouble finding it.”

“That’s a shame.” Terry glanced over at Natalie and smiled.

“I’ll just have to find a new scent.” Natalie sniffed. “I have no idea what you’re wearing, but I smell lavender. It suits you.”

“It’s a body spray and is very hard to come by. Walmart always seems to be out of it.” Terry said seriously, then chuckled.

“I don’t care where you buy it, it smells delicious.”

“Are you coming on to me, Natalie Simmons?”

Natalie laughed and looked out the window. “Yeah, I think I am.”

“Good.”

Natalie sobered as she thought about Lyn and the date she agreed to go on with her Friday night. Everybody appeared to be fine with it, but Natalie was having a hard time sharing their cavalier attitude. The more time she spent with Terry, she felt something growing between them, but when she was with Lyn, she felt a spark of something there, too. Whichever one she chose, Natalie figured she would be most affected by the rejection.

“Are you sure you want to see this movie?” Terry asked as they pulled into the parking lot of the theater. “Maybe a thriller isn’t the right choice right now. We could see a comedy or something lighthearted.”

“I’ll be fine. It’s an espionage thing anyway, and I’m looking forward to seeing it.” Natalie climbed out of the truck when Terry came around and opened her door. “How chivalrous of you,” she teased.

“I’m trying to make a good impression.” Terry winked. “I know I have competition.”

Natalie walked alongside of her. “Does it bother you?”

Terry was slow to answer. “It probably will at some point. I don’t want to put pressure on you, but I will be honest when that time comes.”  She glanced over at Natalie and smiled. “I have to remind myself that we’re just getting to know each other.”

“I remind myself of the same thing, but it does make me uncomfortable. I don’t want to hurt anyone, and I’m afraid that’s what this is all going to lead to. Then again, I may be the one getting dumped—twice.”

“Not likely,” Terry said as she stepped up to the window and paid for their tickets.

As they walked into the darkened theater, Natalie realized just how vulnerable of a situation she was in. She’d been caught up in the day with Terry, and even though the incident that morning stayed in the back of her mind, she’d let her guard down. Terry must’ve considered the same thing.

“Let’s sit up at the top with the wall behind us,” she whispered. The theater wasn’t crowded on a Tuesday night, and as they climbed the stairs, Natalie relaxed a little. Unless someone came and sat right next to them, they’d be by themselves. People normally spread out when there were open seats, Natalie thought. That’s what she would do.

Terry held the tub of popcorn on her knee. They’d eaten nearly all of it before the movie started. When Natalie whispered that she couldn’t eat any more, Terry set it on the floor. She laid her arm on the armrest between them palm up and looked at Natalie, who didn’t hesitate as she set her hand in Terry’s.

She thought again about Lyn and how different she was from Terry. Natalie knew that Lyn would’ve reached over and taken her hand, but Terry wasn’t so presumptuous. She leaned her head against the back of the seat and watched a few stragglers come in as the first scene began. Terry was rubbing the side of her hand with her thumb, and she relaxed.

It had been a long time since she’d been on a date. Natalie stared at the screen uncomprehendingly as her mind wandered all over the woman next to her. What would it feel like to be skin on skin? To run her hands, her tongue over Terry’s stomach. To weave her hands in that silky hair as she tasted her mouth. Natalie exhaled loudly and crossed her legs.

“You okay?” Terry asked.

“Great, just fine,” Natalie said, her voice sounding husky.

When the movie ended predictably, they watched as the low lights came on and everyone filed out of the theater. Terry stood and took the lead with Natalie’s hand clutched in hers. She let her go as they stepped into the lit hallway. “Did you fill up on popcorn, or are you ready to eat something substantial?”

“I’m afraid I’m going to be a cheap date because I’m still full from lunch and the popcorn topped me off,” she said as Terry opened the door for her.

“Then how about a drink? If you want, we can order something light, maybe an appetizer.”

“I think a glass of wine would do me good.” Natalie looked across the parking lot and noticed a seafood restaurant peeking out from behind Barnes and Noble. “We could walk over there.”

Terry shook her head. “Let’s drive. It’s chilly now and will probably be even cooler later when we leave.”

Natalie heard more of what she didn’t say. It was foolish to walk across the parking lot at night. “I’m glad you’re thinking for the both of us,” she said as she climbed into the truck. Terry walked around and got in on her side. “I’m not thinking right, Terry. Someone’s been in my house and slashed my tires last night, and here I am out in public like I don’t have a care in the world.”

“So you’d rather hide away in your house waiting for the next blow?” Terry reached over and took her hand. “That’s what this person wants. To terrorize you.”

“What you didn’t add was if they want to get at me, they will, whether I sit at home or go out,” Natalie said dryly.

Terry didn’t reply. She cranked the truck and drove over to the restaurant. She didn’t kill the engine when she pulled into a parking place. “We can go in if you want or we can go home. Either way, I’ll be with you.”

Natalie blew out a breath. “Let’s go in.”

Terry asked for a table away from the other patrons, and they were seated in a corner booth. “How do you feel about shrimp teriyaki?” she asked as she looked at the menu.

“Are we going to split it?”

“Yes.” Terry grinned. “Unless of course, you need your own.”

Natalie jumped when the waiter appeared at their table. “Good evening. My name is Zack and I’ll be your server tonight. What may I start you off with to drink?”

Terry looked to Natalie to order first. “I’ll have a sangria, a very large sangria.”

Terry smiled up at Zack. “I’ll have the same, but I’d like a very small one. We’d also like to start off with the teriyaki shrimp.”

“I’ll have that out for you in a moment,” Zack said as he departed with a smile.

“I’ve made you jumpy, haven’t I?” Terry said.

Natalie shook her head. “No, it’s not your fault.”

“If it makes you feel any better,” Terry said as she propped an elbow on the table, “I probably wouldn’t have walked through that parking lot anyway. The first rule of self-defense is to not put yourself in a situation where you might have to defend yourself.”

“You’re right. I took for granted that you were with me.” Natalie stared down at the table. “I’m only really getting to know you, but…I feel protected when you’re around.”

Terry smiled. “We are just getting to know each other, but I’d do whatever I had to, to protect you.”

Natalie was a little more relaxed when the waiter returned with their drinks. “I’m sorry about being bitchy when we left the movie.” Natalie shook her head. “Let’s talk about anything but my troubles.”

“Okay,” Terry said with a nod. “Do you think you’d be interested in a second date?”

“Very.” Natalie smiled and looked away from Terry’s gaze, suddenly feeling shy.

“Do you have plans for the weekend?”

Natalie chewed her lip and looked back at Terry. “I…umm…told Lyn that I’d go out with her on Friday.” Terry nodded and took a sip of her wine. Natalie thought she caught a glimpse of disappointment in her eyes. “This is why this is so awkward for me. I’ve never been one to play the field. I’m sorry.”

Natalie sank back into her chair when the waiter served the appetizers. Terry was no longer meeting her gaze. The idea of having two women interested in her should’ve been a real kick in the ego, but as she watched Terry, she felt like she was taking advantage. Natalie waited until the waiter left the table to continue. “I don’t feel right about this. I really am sor—”

“Don’t apologize. You’ve been upfront and honest.” Terry shifted in her seat and looked at Natalie. “I’ll stay with you for as long as you want me to, but I…uh…can go home Friday if you want her to stay instead.”

Natalie looked at Terry for a moment before her meaning settled in. “Oh, no. I have no intention of…I mean…oh, this is awkward.” Natalie pinched the bridge of her nose. “You’re both so easygoing about all of this.”

Terry reached over and took Natalie’s hand. The candlelight flickered in her dark eyes. “I won’t deny that I’m very taken with you, but I’m not the type to pressure anyone into anything.” She tilted her head and smiled. “That doesn’t mean I’ll sit back and let Lyn sweep you off your feet, either. I’ll put up a good fight.”

Natalie felt lost in Terry’s gaze. She wanted to slip away in their dark depths and bask in the longing and desire she saw there. She’d seen desire in Lyn’s eyes, too, felt it in her touch, but there was something in the way that Terry looked at her that made her feel…special. “I would love to go out with you again,” she said finally. “I’ve enjoyed spending the day with you, and this evening has been wonderful.” She wanted to say more but bit her tongue. She’d just admitted to having at date with Lyn on Friday and didn’t want to appear placating.

“This evening isn’t over.” Terry picked up a shrimp and held it for Natalie to bite. Their gazes locked as Natalie leaned in and took the morsel into her mouth. What she saw in Terry’s eyes was far more delicious.

Lyn’s house was still dark when they arrived at Natalie’s place at almost eleven. Natalie wondered if Lyn was on a date herself. If that were the case, it might be a good thing because Terry, who had made no move to seduce her, made her want to throw caution to the wind. Terry had only uttered one sentence and hadn’t even said the word sex, and Natalie had felt herself coming undone. The kiss good night she hoped to share might just kill her.

“Natalie?”

“Hmm?” Natalie hadn’t even noticed Terry climb out of the truck or open her door.

“You coming inside?” she asked with a smile.

“Oh.” Natalie took the hand Terry offered her and followed her up the path to the house. The dogs were barking their heads off as she unlocked the door, then whimpered when they saw their new master. Natalie stepped inside and silenced the warning chime to the alarm.

Terry stood in the doorway grinning down at her. “I’m gonna park around back. Our visitor might show if he thinks you’re alone. Maybe I’ll get a glimpse of him if he does.”

“I’ll let you in the back door.” Natalie’s stomach turned at the thought. She’d hoped the sight of Terry’s truck in the driveway would be a deterrent.

“Okay, okay, I’m happy to see you, too.” Natalie petted both dogs and led them to the back door. When she heard the engine to Terry’s truck die, she opened the door and turned the dogs loose. Both raced to Terry and said their hellos before tearing across the backyard.

“I’m glad you’re here.” Natalie leaned against the brick wall of the patio and watched her dogs sniff at everything in the yard.

“That makes me happy.” Terry walked over and leaned her shoulder against the wall next to Natalie.

Natalie turned and looked at her. “And I enjoy your company very much.”

“That makes me even happier.” Terry moved in front of her. With a finger beneath Natalie’s chin, Terry leaned in and kissed her softly. The kiss was gentle and sweet, and for Natalie, it ended much too soon. Terry took a step back and exhaled. “I should probably stay out here with the dogs for a while where it’s cool.”

Natalie’s lips tingled from the kiss. She wanted another one. “I won’t leave you out here alone.”

“I’m not alone.” Terry pointed at Harley and Paisley.

Natalie took a step toward Terry as she took a step back. “Are you suddenly afraid of me?” she asked with a laugh.

“No.” Terry shook her head. “You…you just stay over there.” Terry rubbed the back of her neck and smiled.

“It’s the shrimp teriyaki. They’re supposed to be an aphrodisiac.”

Terry laughed. “Is not, you liar.” She sighed and shifted from foot to foot. “It’s not the shrimp or the wine, it’s you.”

The dogs were in a race back. Harley had gotten a head start and was in the lead when his sister bit him on the leg. His mistake was turning his head to look at her. His front paws got tangled up, and he rolled across the ground. Paisley cleared him in one glorious leap and won the race as she slowed, then sauntered up to them.

“I guess its bedtime then.” Natalie reached down and patted the victor while Terry loved on Harley. “One of us has to get up very early in the morning.” Natalie gave Terry a smile as she opened the door and let the dogs in. She held it a second longer for Terry, who was slowly bringing up the rear. “I don’t bite,” Natalie said as she walked past her.

“Oh, I have the feeling you do,” Terry said over her shoulder as she walked through the kitchen and into the hall.

The house was locked up tight, and the alarm was set. Terry had gone into the bathroom to dress for bed while Natalie changed in her bedroom. Natalie listened as the bathroom door opened and heard Terry’s footfalls in the hall before she slipped out of her room to brush her teeth and wash her face. She wrapped her robe tighter around herself as she peeked into the open door of the spare room to say good night. Terry wasn’t there.

“What are you doing out here?” Natalie walked into the living room and found Terry on the couch.

Terry’s arms were folded behind her head. She looked snug beneath the blanket Natalie kept on the back of the couch. “I think I’ll be able to hear better in here if we have an unwelcome visitor.”

Natalie leaned against the back of the couch. “You have to work tomorrow. You should sleep where you’ll get the most rest.”

“I won’t get much sleep now that I’ve kissed you,” Terry said with a grin. “Please go to bed—now.”

Natalie laughed as she walked over to the switch and turned the lights off. “If it makes you feel any better, I won’t get much either for the same reason.”

“Thanks a lot,” Terry called after her. “Good night.”

Paisley followed Natalie into the bedroom and jumped up in her spot. Harley stayed long enough to get a pat on the head, then Natalie heard his nails clicking down the hallway.

“Ungh! Harley!” Natalie heard from the living room. She smiled as she switched off her light.

Chapter Twenty-six

She watched from her spot in the woods as Tom Ducote walked across his backyard with a cup of steaming coffee in his hand. He’d done a good job of building the frame for the arbor. She watched him set his cup down and measure the frame. A pile of white lattice lay nearby. She’d do him a favor and shoot him before he had to cut it. Lattice was a pain in the ass, she knew that much.

She considered the arrow that she held in her hand. It wasn’t as good as the ones she picked out on the Internet, but those could be traced a lot quicker than the one she now laid against the bow string. You could find them at any sporting goods store, and she’d paid cash.

The bow was top of the line and easy to use. She’d stolen from one of the careless hunters she’d watched when he left his truck unlocked. The woods around here were full of them, and she hoped she wouldn’t encounter one after she sent her arrow flying. She’d shot a few into the ground the day before, hoping it would look like a hunter had been shooting at something and got Tom by mistake.

I’ve practiced for this. My aim is good, she thought as she pulled the string back. Ducote, totally unaware of her presence, took the step that unknowingly put him in perfect position for the shot. The arrow whizzed quietly, and she stayed long enough to enjoy the shocked look on his face as he sank to his knees.

Now she could focus on Natalie. If she came willingly, all the better, but if not, she was prepared to take her by force.

****

Natalie yawned as she dried her hair. She wasn’t used to getting up at four thirty in the morning. She had no idea how Terry could function getting up at such an hour. When she heard Terry get into the shower that morning, she got up and cooked breakfast. Terry’s hair was still wet when she sat at the table with a smile of gratitude. She’d eaten quickly, and Natalie pressed a to-go cup of coffee into her hand as Terry scrambled to get out the door.

Natalie smiled as she turned off the hair dryer and wound the cord. Terry had kissed her sweetly before reminding her to reset the alarm after she left. She could get used to taking care of someone again and letting someone take care of her.

She looked at the clock in the bedroom and frowned. The nap on the couch still warm from where Terry had slept caused her to run late for her morning coffee with Andrea. Natalie figured the phone would be ringing any minute with Andrea frantically worried about why she wasn’t at the store already.

After Natalie dressed, she filled the dogs’ Kongs with treats, set the alarm, and ran out the door, looking around to see if anyone was watching her. She locked her car doors and pulled out of the driveway before taking a quick glance at Lyn’s place, knowing before she looked that Lyn had already left for work.

Andrea stood with her hands on her hips in front of the large storefront window, or what used to be the window. “What happened?” Natalie jumped from her car and walked toward Andrea and Clyde Bordelon.

“Someone threw a brick through her window this morning,” Clyde said as he turned toward Natalie.

“Did they take anything?” Natalie asked Andrea, who looked pale. Her cheeks were tear-stained as she shook her head.

“No, but it took me a while to find Dexter. He was cowering in the storeroom.”

Natalie looked inside and noticed the brick on the coffee table where it had obviously landed judging by the scrape in the wood. “The whore’s friend” had been written on it with a black marker. Though Andrea had many friends in town, Natalie wondered if the message referred to her. “Why aren’t the police here?”

“They’re dealin’ with bigger things this morning,” Clyde said. His John Deere cap was pulled low; Natalie could barely see his eyes beneath the brim. His voice sounded more gravelly than normal and grave. “Someone shot Tom Ducote this morning.”

Natalie whirled around and looked at Andrea.

“Today’s his day off. Someone got him with an arrow while he was working on the arbor for his daughter’s wedding in the spring.” Andrea sniffed. “He was still alive when the ambulance got there, but that’s all we know.”

Natalie heard Terry’s voice in her mind talking about seeing bow hunters in the woods and how nervous they made her. “Was it an accident?”

“Don’t know.” Clyde took off his cap and scratched his balding head. “Whoever done it didn’t stick around, or maybe they didn’t realize that they hit ’em.” Clyde put his hat back on and hoisted his sagging jeans. “I’m gonna see about the glass. I’ll be back later. Let me know if ya hear anything on Tom.”

“Eat something while you’re out, Clyde, you skinny old stick of a man,” Andrea called out as he walked away. “Tired of looking at your white ass crack stickin’ out of them jeans.” The last part Andrea mumbled as she looked at the shards of glass covering the store floor.

Natalie felt numb as she stood next to Andrea, both of them staring at the floor. “Know what you’re thinking,” Andrea said. “I’m thinking it, too.”

“That the same person who did this shot Tom?”

“Maybe he was getting too close to something. Then again, it very well could’ve been a kid with a bad aim. Might not have even known what he did.” Dexter yowled from inside the store. “Hold your horses, cat, I’ll get your food in a minute,” Andrea yelled. “Got him locked in the storeroom so he won’t get in the street.” Andrea pointed to the brick. “The two might not be related, and I have lots of friends, but with the trouble you’ve had lately…” Andrea let the sentence drop when Natalie blanched.

“I don’t know what to do.” Natalie leaned against the building. “If Tom’s shooting wasn’t an accident—”

“I’ll tell you what you’re gonna do.” Andrea grabbed Natalie by the arm and led her inside the store. “You’re gonna stay where I can keep an eye on you. You’re gonna tend my store and help me clean up while I make a few calls.”

“Terry and Lyn, what if—” Natalie pinched the bridge of her nose. “Maybe I should pack up and leave for a while. What if one of you gets hurt because of me?”

“Magnanimous of you, honey, but no.” Andrea pulled out a phone book and flipped through the pages. She picked up her phone and dialed. “Yes, good morning is Keith Kelly Jr. in today?”

“What are you doing?” Natalie asked in a shrill whisper.

Andrea put her hand over the phone. “I’m gonna scare the shit out of this little bastard.” Andrea pulled her hand from the phone and began to speak again. “Well, I came in a few months ago, and he gave me a good deal, but I had cold feet. He said if I changed my mind to call him.”  Andrea listened for a second. “Oh, I didn’t realize you had more than one dealership. I don’t get out much. Can I have the number to that one?” Andrea grabbed a pen. “Oh? When will he be back, do you know? Really? We’ll, I’ll have to remember to congratulate him. No, no, once I start working with someone, that’s the person I want to deal with. I’ll wait until he gets back, thank you.” Andrea hung up the phone and began gnawing on the top of her ink pen.

“What is it?” Natalie asked.

“I don’t think it’s Keith.” Andrea pulled the pen from her mouth, looked at it, and tossed it on the counter. “He’s been out of town on his honeymoon, won’t be back until next week. Let me feed Dexter.” Andrea pulled the cat food from beneath the counter and walked off.

Natalie’s head swam from the revelation. If not Keith, then who?

“You know?” Andrea came back up the aisle. “It still might be the Kellys. They could’ve hired someone to make sure you don’t enjoy the money.”

Natalie sat on Andrea’s stool and watched her walk to the back of the store. She didn’t like the idea of looking for Keith Kelly’s face in every crowd, but the thought of someone she didn’t know stalking her was even more unsettling. She leaned her elbows on the counter and thought about Andrea’s theory. What if the Kellys were paying someone to make her life miserable? Was that all it was? Or would this person resort to hurting her or those she cared about? Would the Kellys finance that?

Natalie heard the sound of someone pulling into the parking lot as Andrea came out of the storeroom. A minute later, the same deputy who had come to her house with Tom was poking his head through the open window.

“Morning, Randall.” Andrea leaned heavily against the counter. “What’s the word on Tom?”

The deputy stepped through the broken window and nodded at Natalie. “We don’t know yet. He’s in surgery right now.”

“I’ll take that as good news,” Andrea said with a hand over her heart. “Means he’s still alive. Was he able to say what happened?”

He shook his head as he looked at the brick. “Lost a lot of blood before Clara found him. He was out of it when they loaded him in the ambulance. Clara’s some upset.” He looked over at Natalie. “You’re Ms. Simmons, right?”

“Yes,” Natalie said.

Randall stared at her for a minute, then looked at Andrea. “Missing anything?”

“No.” Andrea shook her head. “Nothing’s been trifled with except the window.”

“This building have an alarm? Something that can tell us when this happened?” He pulled a pair of rubber gloves from his pocket.

“It does, but I never set it. Can’t remember the code. Besides, I’ve never had any trouble.”

Natalie sank lower as she listened. Andrea never bothered to set her alarm and would no doubt have to now.

“I’m gonna put this brick into an evidence bag. Don’t wanna get your hopes up on finding prints. I suspect whoever did this was careful.” Randall stepped back through the window. When he returned, he snapped off a few pictures and picked up the brick. He looked at Natalie oddly before he stuffed it into the bag and walked over to her. Without a word, he flipped it over so that Andrea and Natalie could read the back. Natalie Simmons is a whore.

Natalie inhaled sharply as she stared at it.

“Son of a bitch.” Andrea rubbed Natalie’s shoulder. “Could this be connected to what happened to Tom?”

“Can’t really discuss it,” Randall said. “I know you and Tom are friends, but I can’t say anything.” He seemed apologetic. “But when I hear anything about how he’s doing, I’ll let you know.” He pulled a card from his pocket and handed it to Andrea. “That’s the file number for your insurance.” He looked at Natalie. “Deputy Ducote’s cases will be reassigned. I’ll make sure whoever gets yours will have this evidence. Someone will be in contact with you.”

“Thanks,” Natalie said, “and thank you for keeping us in the loop on Tom’s condition.” She walked into the back of the store numbly in search of the broom and dust pan, needing something to focus on before she lost her mind. When she returned, Andrea was on the phone.

“I would have called sooner, but with the store and all…yes she’s here. Now calm down, I’ve—” Andrea hung up the phone. “She’s a pistol, that one. Hung up on me.”

“Who?” Natalie asked.

“Terry. She told me to call her if ever there was trouble. She’s mighty pissed off that I didn’t do it sooner.”

“I don’t think it was a good idea to call her at work.” Natalie dropped the dust pan on the floor. “Now she’ll just worry, and I’d think an electrician should be focused on the job at hand.”

“She’s leaving. Said she was going in to talk to her supervisor.”

Natalie dropped the broom and pulled her cell from her pocket.

“What’re you doing?”

“I’m going to tell her not to leave work.” Natalie put the phone to her ear.

“Gonna get your feelings hurt if she talks to you like she just did to me.”

Terry’s voice mail picked up, and Natalie left a message. “Hey, it’s Natalie. Don’t leave work. I don’t want you to have any problems with your job because of me. Everything is fine. I’m with Andrea. Call me when you get this.”

“Ain’t gonna call you back, you know,” Andrea said with a smile. “She’s gonna show up here all piss and vinegar, you watch.”

Natalie picked up the broom and started sweeping up the glass. Andrea was probably right.

Clyde Bordelon and his brother Edwin along with his son showed up about thirty minutes later. They went to work on the window as Andrea and Natalie watched. “Clyde’s one of those guys that can do a little of everything.” Andrea had her chin propped in her hand as she leaned against the counter. “You going up to the hospital to see Tom later?” Andrea called out to him.

“Yeah, Sandra’s already up there with Clara. You want a ride?” Clyde hoisted his pants and looked back at Andrea.

“You wanna come along?” Andrea asked Natalie.

“I think there are going to be enough people up there today. I’ll make plans to go when he’s up to having visitors.”

“Yeah, Clyde, I’ll ride with you. Gotta wait on Terry to get here first.”

Clyde nodded as he sealed the new glass.

“I should get out of here.” Natalie folded her arms. “Maybe what happened to Tom was an accident, but that brick wasn’t.”

Andrea looked over the top of her glasses. “Go where?”

Natalie shook her head. “I don’t know, away before anything else happens.”

“So you’re just gonna run off with two dogs and hide out?” Andrea shook her head. “That’s not one of your smarter moves.”

“You have a better idea?” Natalie said testily. “This person or these people know who my friends are. Am I supposed to sit around and wait until one of you gets hurt?”

Andrea pointed a finger and opened her mouth to reply when Terry walked in. The intensity in her eyes when she looked at Natalie gave her chills and not in the good way she was accustomed to. She waved at Clyde and Edwin, who were cleaning up their work area, and walked up to the counter.

“How’s Tom?” Terry asked, looking at Andrea.

“He’s in surgery. We don’t know anything yet.” Andrea glanced at Natalie.

“Did the police come out here for the window?” Terry looked beyond Andrea to the window.

Andrea nodded. “They did.”

Terry leveled her gaze on Andrea again. “Was the thing with Tom an accident?”

“They don’t know,” Natalie said, drawing Terry’s gaze. “Clara, his wife, found him. Terry, you didn’t have to leave work. I would’ve stayed here with Andrea until you got home.”

“Did it occur to either of you that this could’ve been a diversion? The sheriff’s office is going to put every man or woman they have in those woods. That leaves you totally unprotected.” Terry looked at Andrea then. “No offense, but you two are sitting ducks in this store.”

“Clyde and Edwin have been here most of the time,” Andrea said.

Terry swallowed, and her shoulders relaxed slightly. “I’d like to take you home all the same,” she said, looking at Natalie.

Natalie looked at Andrea, who held up her hand. “This duck is closing up shop and going with Clyde. Don’t worry about me.”

Chapter Twenty-seven

Andrea waved her arm out the passenger’s window of Clyde’s old work truck. Edwin waved back as they pulled out of the lot. A thought had been burrowing in her mind since that morning when she learned that Keith Kelly was out of town. What she’d told Natalie about her suspicions with the Kellys was plausible, but in her bones, she felt doubt.

Natalie had virtually isolated herself in her house for a year, cutting off contact with friends and the few distant relatives she had. Andrea had been the only one she spent time with. There were two newcomers in her life, and with them came the occurrences, and she’d just sent Natalie home with one of them.

“Clyde, what kind of looking into do you do on your tenants?”

Clyde grunted as he downshifted and made a turn. “Run their credit. See if they bounce checks.”

“That’s all?” Andrea asked, looking at him.

“If they’re shady-lookin’, I check with the people they rented from before.” Clyde looked over at Andrea. “Why?”

Andrea shook her head. “I don’t know yet. Did you talk to Lyn and Terry’s former landlords?”

“Nah, they both seemed clean-cut. Both paid the rent and deposits up front.”

“Do you make them fill out anything? Like where they work? Personal info?” Andrea asked.

“Yeah, Clara printed a form off the Internet for me to use. You thinkin’ it’s one of them girls that’s messin’ with Natalie?”

“I’m sure you’ve heard all about the trouble she’s been having.”

“Yeah, it’s all over town. Randall’s been telling everyone he thinks she’s been doing it herself for attention. Said when he went out on the first call to her house, there was no sign of forced entry.”

“I don’t agree with Randall’s opinion,” Andrea said angrily. “Tom didn’t, either.”

Clyde looked away from the road for a second at Andrea but didn’t say anything.

“Could I get a copy of those forms you had those girls fill out?”

“Yeah, I’ll run you by the house on the way back in and make you some copies.”

Terry dropped a large duffel bag at Natalie’s feet as she sat on her couch. “Wow, you moving in?” Natalie looked at it.

“For as long as it takes or until you throw me out.” Terry went back into her bedroom and came out with the familiar lockbox and set it on top of the duffel bag.

Natalie stood as Terry hoisted the large bag over her shoulder and tucked the box under her arm. “I was thinking of packing up the dogs and going away for a while until things died down.” She took Terry’s keys and locked up the house as they walked out onto the porch.

“Might be a good idea, but I suspect whoever is doing this will follow. We’ll be in unfamiliar territory with no help if we need it.” Terry tossed the duffel into the back of her truck and opened Natalie’s door.

Natalie climbed inside and looked at Terry. “I would go alone. It isn’t fair to disrupt your life or everyone else’s.”

“I’d follow you whether you wanted me to or not.” Terry closed the door before Natalie could respond. “Think of it this way,” Terry said after she opened her door and climbed in. “If they decided what happened to Tom wasn’t an accident, they’re gonna have questions for you since he was working on this stalking thing. They might not want you to leave, which is good in a way because they’ll be keeping a closer eye on you. They’ll be waiting for this asshole to make another move.”

Terry wasn’t lying when she said she had trouble sitting still. She busied herself priming the ceiling of the spare bedroom. Natalie got her to sit down for five minutes and eat a sandwich and a bowl of soup, then she was up fixing the motion light on the front of the house. When she was done with that, she worked on a leaky faucet in the bathroom.

“You need to slow it down, tiger. You’re gonna be exhausted when you have to go back in to work tomorrow.” Natalie stood in the door of the bathroom admiring Terry’s legs as she lay halfway under the bathroom cabinet.

“I’m not going to work tomorrow,” Terry said without stopping what she was doing. “My supervisor has been hounding me to use up my vacation before the end of the year.” She tossed a wrench into her toolbox and sat up. “Between my schedule and the time I have accrued, I could take off for a month and still have time left over.”

“I’m not going to complain about the company,” Natalie said. “But I’m sorry you felt like you had to waste your vacation to sit around here.”

Terry smiled and held out a hand so that Natalie could help her stand. “It’s not a waste to me.” She kissed Natalie quickly and picked up her toolbox. “Find something for me to fix or I’m going to run us down to the hardware store to get paint for the ceilings.”

Natalie followed her down the hall. “We need to renegotiate the price on that job. I think I should have bonus kisses.”

Terry whirled around as she walked into the kitchen and smiled at Natalie. “I have to give you bonus kisses to paint your house?”

“Hey, if you can’t handle the job, I can always hire someone else.” Natalie leaned against the counter.

Terry’s gaze darted to the front window, and her smile dropped from her face. “Lyn just crossed the yard. She’ll be knocking on your door in a few seconds.” Terry turned and went out the back door with her toolbox.

Natalie chewed her bottom lip as she went to the window by the door and opened it just as Lyn began to knock. “Hey, you’ll have to go around back. We’re trying not to walk on the floor until it’s sealed.”

“Meet you around back,” Lyn said as she hopped off the side of the porch.

When Natalie walked out the back door, Lyn was staring daggers at Terry, who was loading her things into the larger toolbox in the back of the truck. “When did your yard become part of the driveway, and weren’t you supposed to have a fence installed?”

“There’s been more trouble, so Terry’s been parking back here,” Natalie said. “The fence has been delayed.”

“So she’s been staying here.” Lyn’s tone made it obvious that she wasn’t pleased. “Is that going to present a problem with us going out on Friday night?”

“Lyn, Tom Ducote, the deputy that was working on my case, has been shot.”

“Shot? When?” Lyn grabbed Natalie’s hand and led her to the patio table where they sat down.

“It happened this morning. He was off duty and in his backyard when someone shot him with an arrow. They’re not saying if it was an accident or not.”

“An arrow? What kind of place are we living in where people shoot arrows?” Lyn asked.

“They’re a lot of bow hunters in the woods around here,” Natalie explained.

“Well, I’m not trying to minimize, but how much damage can an arrow actually do? I mean, it’s not like a gun, right?”

“They shoot deer with them. They can be deadly,” Natalie said, thinking about Tom and how much his wife and family must be going through.

“Is he...”

“No,” Natalie said. “He’s been in surgery for most of the day. Andrea called me earlier and said he was stable, but he’d be in intensive care for a while.”

“Shit.” Lyn ran her fingers through her hair. “What rotten luck.”

“There’s more,” Natalie continued. “Someone slashed my tires the other day and threw a brick through Andrea’s storefront window last night.”

“Oh, my God! Why didn’t you call me?” Lyn reached over and grabbed Natalie’s arm. “This is crazy.”

Natalie’s gaze darted to the hand on her arm, then at Terry, who had her back to them. “I didn’t want to worry you.”

“And she’s been here watching over you.” Lyn tossed her head in Terry’s direction. “She’s not the only one willing to take care of you, Natalie.”

“You’re as scared of the dark as I am,” Natalie said with a laugh, one that Lyn didn’t share with her.

“You don’t know how capable I am. You haven’t given me a chance yet,” Lyn said seriously.

“I know you are.” Natalie said the words but wasn’t sure if that statement were true or not. Lyn was quick thinking and take-charge the day Natalie found her back door open, but with Terry, she just felt safer. “I don’t know about going out Friday night. I think it might not be a good idea to go out in public right now.”

“I understand.” Lyn nodded. “This really sucks, ya know? We can’t even have dinner in with her here.” She looked over at Terry. “What about you coming to my place?”

“You can have dinner here.” Terry walked toward the back door. “I have books. I can go into the spare room and give you two time alone.” She walked inside without waiting for an answer.

“How nice of her to offer.” Sarcasm oozed from Lyn’s pores. “Your bodyguard will watch over the both of us.” Lyn ran her fingers down Natalie’s arm and gently gripped her hand. “I’ve been really looking forward to Friday. Come over, let me cook you dinner at my place.”

“Natalie, can I talk to you for just a minute?” Terry said as she stuck her head out the back door.

“She’s doing some work in the house and probably has a question.” Natalie stood. “Why don’t you come inside and fix yourself a glass of tea? I’ll only be a minute.”

Terry’s eyes narrowed for a fleeting second when Lyn came in behind Natalie. She turned and walked down the hall, forcing Natalie to follow her. They walked into the spare room and Terry closed the door. “I realize I’m in dangerous waters here, and you may think what I have to say next is jaded by…the way I care for you. I just want you to consider this. You’ll be vulnerable at Lyn’s house. She may let you bring the dogs, but there’s no alarm. You’ll be safer here.” Terry sighed. “I’ll give you your privacy. I can sit out in my truck if that will make it less awkward.”

“Does this bother you?” Natalie searched Terry’s eyes.

“Yes, it bothers me. I want to be able to watch over you until this guy is caught.”

Natalie shook her head. “Does me being on a date with Lyn bother you?”

Terry regarded her for a second. “Yes, it does, but God as my witness, I am more worried about your safety. That’s why I brought this up.”

Natalie nodded. “That’s what I needed to know.” She opened the door and went back to the kitchen where she found Lyn and poured herself a glass of tea. “Let’s go out onto the patio.”

Natalie took a seat at the table and watched Harley and Paisley chase each other around the yard. When they noticed her, they both ran up. “I bet you’re hungry,” Natalie said as she patted them both. Terry walked out the back door at that moment with a can of primer and walked toward her truck. “Terry, would you feed them when you go back in?”

“Sure.” Terry dropped the can in the back of her truck and whistled for the dogs, who ran to her. She petted them and opened the back door, letting them into the house.

Lyn watched it all, then took a seat. “Looks like the happy homestead here.”

“We need to talk,” Natalie said.

“No, we really don’t.” Lyn set her glass on the table. “You’d have to be blind and flat-out stupid not to see that Terry has already won you over.”

“I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be,” Lyn said with a sad smile. “I meant what I said. I’ll still be your friend, and one day, I’ll be Terry’s, too. I’ll need a few days to get over the disappointment, so please don’t think I’m mad at you if I stay away.”

Lyn stood and kissed Natalie on the forehead. “I’m sorry about being so catty earlier. I was seeing the handwriting on the wall, but I can behave myself. I’ll see you later.”

“I hope so.” Natalie watched her go, feeling like a complete heel. Lyn and Terry had stirred something within her, but there was just something in Terry that she wanted to hold on to, and she didn’t feel right keeping Lyn on retainer.

The back door opened and the dogs came out in a flurry, nipping and growling at each other as they ran deep into the yard. “They’re all fed.” Terry looked around and raised an eyebrow at Natalie.

“She’s gone, and we’re not going to do anything on Friday.” Natalie shrugged. “The timing just wasn’t right.”

Terry looked out into the yard. “It really isn’t fair to her, my being here. I shouldn’t have butted in.”

“I like you being here, and I appreciate that you care enough to want to protect me.” Natalie tilted her head to the side as she looked at Terry. “But is that the only reason you’re here? You feel you have some duty to watch over me?”

“I guess I didn’t make that clear a minute ago,” Terry said with a sigh. “I want to protect you because I care about you. We’ve spent a lot of time together lately, and the more I learn about you, the more I like.” Terry looked down at Natalie then. “It goes beyond finding you irresistibly attractive.”

Natalie grinned. “You find me irresistible?”

“Yes,” Terry said with a smile. “And I find myself…” Terry waved around as though she were struggling to find the right word. “…starving. The dogs’ kibble was actually looking good.”

Natalie laughed and held out her hand. Terry pulled her from the chair and gave her a quick kiss before releasing her. “I guess I should feed you since you’ve worked all day.”

Chapter Twenty-eight

Terry insisted on cleaning up after dinner. Natalie leaned on the kitchen counter and watched her as she worked. She wanted to tell Terry that she wouldn’t be dating Lyn. The image of disappointment in Lyn’s eyes held her back. She felt it wrong to dump Lyn and rush into Terry’s arms all in the same day, but tomorrow was another story.

“Do you work out?” Natalie gazed at Terry’s legs.

“I should.” Terry looked over her shoulder at Natalie for a second. “But at work, I climb ladders all shift long, and when I’m home, I’m doing odd jobs all the time, and that keeps me busy.”

“When I first saw you at the grocery store, you mentioned climbing ladders. I thought you were a painter.”

“I work for Adam when he’s short-handed, and that’s really ladder climbing. I felt like I was on vacation when I went back to work at the plant.” Terry threw the dish towel over her shoulder and turned. “You remember that conversation at the store?” She leaned against the counter.

“Yeah, you don’t?”

“I don’t remember a thing we talked about,” Terry admitted with a smile. “I remember when you turned and looked at me that I was totally captivated. I’m surprised I was even able to form a complete sentence.”

“Your eyes give away what you’re thinking. I imagine you don’t lie very well.”

Terry laughed. “I was an expert liar as a kid. I could look my mom dead in the eye and deny anything. I dunno, maybe she didn’t care enough to look past what she was hearing. I lied to Mr. Roundtree, too, but he always knew it, and he didn’t let me get away with anything.”

Natalie walked over and took the towel from Terry’s shoulder and led her into the living room where they settled on the couch. “What did you lie to him about?”

Terry looked up at the ceiling as she thought. “I think the first one was about a bike. There was a kid that lived down the street that got one of those new motocross bikes like I’d always wanted. He’d never let me ride it, so one day while they were gone, I sneaked over and took it for a spin in the woods. I rode it for hours, and when I decided to take it back, they were home.”

“Did they catch you with it?”

“No, I took it down the block to an empty house and parked it under the carport. Trent and his brothers combed the neighborhood until they found it. Mr. Roundtree asked me if I knew what happened, and I said no.” Terry smiled. “He folded his arms and stared at me over the top of his glasses until I confessed. He made me go apologize to Trent and promise never to borrow his bike again.”

“How did he make you do that?” Natalie asked. “He wasn’t a parent. You could’ve told him to stick it.”

“I thought about it, but I respected him too much, and he was the first person that ever made me want their approval. He asked me then to rake the leaves in his yard, and I did without any promise of money. Took me a whole week to get it all cleaned up, and that weekend, I had a motocross bike of my own.”

Natalie picked up Terry’s hand and held it. “I think that shows your character even back then. Most kids would’ve blown him off, but you didn’t.”

“He was certainly a father to me.” Terry grew quiet for a minute, then asked, “What was your dad like?”

Natalie winced at the memory. “I was an only child, so you can imagine that I was doted on. My parents did their best not to spoil me, but I never had to ask for much. My mother found out she had breast cancer when I was in my late teens. She was dead by the time I was twenty-one, and I guess Dad died then, too. He started drinking, then he hurt his back.” Natalie shook her head. “Looking back on it now, I think it was more of an excuse to take a pill and let the world go by without feeling anything. I lost him before I was thirty.”

“I’m sorry.” Terry squeezed Natalie’s hand. “I wondered about your family. You haven’t talked about them at all, and no one seemed to be checking on you.” She looked around the living room. “There aren’t any pictures, either.”

“It’s too painful of a reminder. That’s why I only have one of Karen in the bedroom. You tend to look at them, and all the memories come flooding back. For me, it renews the pain of the loss much too often.” Natalie took a breath and forced back the emotion trying to make its way to the surface. “Would you like to watch a movie or something on TV? I could make some popcorn.”

“I’m stuffed.” Terry patted her stomach. “But a movie sounds great.”

They agreed on a pay-per-view comedy. Natalie coaxed Terry to lie on the couch with her head on a pillow in her lap. Natalie looked down at the dark brown curls and found them too tempting not to touch. She watched Terry’s eyelids flutter as she wound her fingers through the soft strands.

Natalie was at odds with herself as she stared at the TV. With all that was going on in her life, she should’ve been a wreck, but here she sat with her hands in Terry’s hair and loving every second of it. Terry was a contradiction herself. Strong and protective one moment, sweet and tender the next. Natalie’s gaze moved over thick lashes and soft skin to lips red and full that delivered some of the sweetest, most spine-tingling kisses she’d ever had.

Terry laughed softly at the movie and looked up at Natalie. “Are you enjoying it?”

“Yes.” Natalie stared at Terry’s mouth. “Even though I have no idea what’s going on.”

Terry looked at her quizzically as she sat up.

Natalie met Terry’s eyes and smiled. “I haven’t been paying attention.”

Terry leaned in and brushed her lips against Natalie’s. “What’s on your mind?” she asked as she pulled back slightly.

Natalie wove her hand into Terry’s hair. When they met again, she moaned into the kiss, slipping her tongue deep into Terry’s mouth. When she released Terry, she inhaled sharply. Terry’s lips were bruised and full, her eyes dark. “I think it’s time you went to bed,” she said breathlessly. Terry stood, wobbling slightly as she did. “I’m incredibly attracted to you, and I care more than I probably should right now…” She looked away as she ran a hand through her hair. “I want you, Natalie, but I can’t do this until I know that I’m what you want.” She looked at Natalie then with a pained expression. “I meant what I said about not pressuring you, so please don’t think that’s what I’m trying to do.”

“I know,” Natalie said with a nod.

Terry took a step back. “I’m just gonna,” she pointed to the bathroom, “go get ready for bed.”

Natalie watched her go, wondering if she should admit that she’d ended things with Lyn. She laid her head against the back of the couch feeling like a jerk for dumping Lyn and making a move on Terry hours later. But that kiss, it still burned on her lips. With a sigh, she stood and stretched.

“Hey.” Terry poked her head out of the bathroom door. “I’m gonna take a quick shower. Wait on me to take the dogs out.”

Natalie stuffed her hands in the back pockets of her jeans. “I’m sorry about…getting carried away.”

Terry grinned. “Don’t apologize for that. There will be plenty of hot water if you want a shower. I’m not using any.”

“Will you sleep in the guest room tonight? You can’t be comfortable on this couch.”

“I’ll be fine, and I’ll be right out.” Terry closed the door, and a moment later, Natalie heard a yelp from the bathroom. Maybe Terry was rethinking the cold shower.

Natalie put an extra blanket on the couch and a pillow from the guest room. Paisley and Harley followed her as she moved from room to room. “I know you guys need to go out, just give me a few minutes.” Harley let out a whimper and went to the back door. She glanced at the clock—eleven forty. It’d been a while since the dogs had gone out, and judging from the dance Harley was doing, it was past due.

“Come on, you two,” she said as she shut off the alarm. “Time to potty.” Natalie looked out the window before she cautiously opened the door. She listened for a moment before letting the dogs out. They took a couple of steps onto the patio and turned to look at her expectantly. “Okay, go.” She stepped out the door and descended the steps. Paisley and Harley turned and ran into the yard, activating the motion sensor on the flood light that lit up the patio and yard.

Natalie leaned against the wall in the shadows when the door flew open and banged against the wall next to her.

“Are you crazy?” Terry demanded as she came down the steps and stood toe to toe with Natalie. “I told you to wait on me before you did this!” Even in the dim light of the shadows, Natalie could see the fury in Terry’s eyes. Instinct made her attempt to step back, but her back was firmly against the wall. “Have you forgotten the position you’re in?” Terry ground out angrily in her face.

Any argument Natalie might’ve had died on her tongue as Terry’s hot breath fanned out across her face. At that moment, she wasn’t sure who she was more afraid of—the stranger who terrorized her or the stranger who now stood before her.

Paisley whimpered as she tried to force her way between them. Harley, who stood a couple of feet away, growled. His scruff was standing high on his neck. Terry blinked and looked at him before taking a step back. “Can we go inside?” she asked brusquely. Natalie swallowed and stepped around her. Terry followed her up the steps and closed the back door.

“Natalie, I—”

“You scared the shit out of me,” Natalie yelled. The dogs started at the outburst and cowered at her feet.

Terry started, too. The intense dark stare returned to her eyes. “You scared me, too,” she said calmly. “The house was empty when I came out of the bathroom, and you didn’t respond when I called for you.”

“I can’t…I just can’t live like this, being afraid of every step I take.” Frustration and fear rose to the surface for the first time. Terry had jarred her into a consciousness that she had not allowed herself to venture into.

Terry’s voice was calm and low. “And what is the alternative? Live like none of this is happening? Pretend that some nut out there doesn’t really have it in for you? Think. This guy has been in your house, has gone through your things, took personal items. What do you think he’s doing with them? Natalie, he slashed your tires and threw a brick through Andrea’s window. What’s next?”

“Stop.” Natalie held a hand up. “Just stop, please. You’re right on all accounts, and you have the right to be angry with me for doing something stupid. But don’t make me recount every horrible step.”

Terry ran her hands through her hair and let them drop at her sides. “I don’t mean to scare you. I only want to make you think.”

“You have.” Natalie folded her arms. “I’m going to take a shower and go to bed.” She took a step toward the hallway. “If you need anything at all, don’t hesitate to ask.”

Natalie set the alarm in her bedroom and sat on the edge of the bed. The house was dark when she emerged from the bathroom, and she wondered if Terry felt as bad as she did. She’d looked miserable when Natalie walked out of the kitchen, but Natalie didn’t have it in her to assure her that everything between them was all right. What Terry had to say chilled her to the core, and though she was only the messenger, Natalie had to put as much space as she could between her and the truth.

Somewhere out there was a person who for whatever reason hated her or worked for someone who hated her. She felt it acutely as if that person were behind her breathing down her neck. What’s next? Those words burned through her brain. Tears dripped from her eyes and fell on her bare legs.

Chapter Twenty-nine

“Clyde, it’s Andrea.”

‘Mornin’,” Clyde said. “I don’t know no more about Tom today if that’s why you’re callin’. I’m gonna go up to the hospital here in about an hour if you want to ride again.”

“I do want to know about Tom, but that’s not why I’m calling. It was so late last night when we left the hospital that I forgot to ask you for those leases. Any way you can drop them by my store on your way out this morning?”

“Hmm.” Andrea could hear Clyde scratching the stubble on his chin through the phone. “I’m gonna have to dig around for them, don’t know where they are exactly. Told Edwin that I’d drop off some tools this mornin’ on my way out. Mind if I get them to ya later this afternoon?”

“I guess it can wait.” Andrea tried not to let disappointment leak into her voice. “I appreciate the offer of the ride, but I have some things to do at the store this morning. But please call me when you hear how Tom’s doing.”

“Will do.” Clyde hung up without saying goodbye in his usual fashion. Andrea was poised to remind him again about the leases. They probably wouldn’t tell her any more than she already knew, but she wanted to look them over anyway, maybe make a few calls.

She’d lain in bed for an hour after she got home after midnight. The image of Tom’s wife and children’s distraught faces flashed through her mind every time she closed her eyes. She’d listened intently to the whispered conversations of the deputies as they gathered in the ICU waiting area. They’d pounded the ground for much of the day, tracking down everyone known to hunt in the woods. Most had been at work or school. The few who had been home claimed to have not been anywhere near the woods that ran through the middle of their community.

There had been prints, though. The moist earth was filled with booted marks, and a smaller pair than the rest raised a few eyebrows. That coupled with the fact that most of the people who hunted in those woods were experienced and knew better than to shoot into populated areas. The idea that maybe it was an accident was becoming dimmer by the minute. What concerned Andrea the most was Sean Randall’s theory about Natalie, which he shared with anyone who would listen. I think she wants attention. Now how far she’ll go to get it remains to be seen.

That the focus would turn to Natalie might be good and bad. Good because they would pay more attention to her situation. Bad because they might begin to consider her a suspect. Regardless of whether she was proven innocent, doubt would linger in a lot of minds, and Natalie wouldn’t be accepted any longer in their tight-knit community.

Andrea pulled on her jacket and gave instructions to her brood of animals as though they fully understood everything she had to say before stepping out into the cool autumn morning. She thought about Lyn and Terry as she climbed into her car, groaning with the effort and the pain of arthritis. She’d been wrong about a person before, but in her bones, she felt like Terry was the good gal. God help them all if she were wrong this time.

The smell of coffee brewing caused Natalie to stir. She looked at the clock. It was well past eight. Her canine companions weren’t on the bed. Natalie got up and pulled on a pair of sweats before making her way down the hall to the kitchen. Paisley was the first to greet her followed by Harley. Terry turned as they began to whimper their delight.

“Good morning,” Terry said. “Coffee’s almost done.”

“Have they eaten?” Natalie pointed to the dogs.

“Yes, and they’ve been outside already. Everything looks fine out there,” Terry said before Natalie could ask.

“How did you open the door without the alarm sounding?”

Terry opened a drawer and held up a slip of paper. Alarm Code 4361. “I found it yesterday when I tightened the knobs on your drawers and cabinets. You appear to be able to remember it. I’d suggest burning this.”

Natalie nodded and took the paper. She sniffed as she crumpled it in her fist. “Is that cinnamon rolls I smell?”

“I hope you don’t mind. I figured it would be nice to have someone cook for you for a change.” Terry filled a cup with coffee and handed it to Natalie.

She took a sip and smiled. “Thank you.” Natalie took a seat on one of the bar stools and set her cup down. “I’m sorry about last night.”

“Me too.” Terry looked in on the rolls. “I went to bed feeling really awful about the things I said to you and how I reacted. It’s a personality flaw I wish I could overcome. When something scares me, I get really pissed off.”

“I needed to hear what you had to say, needed to be reminded of things. You didn’t do anything wrong.”

“I could’ve handled it better.” Terry took a sip of her coffee and looked at the floor. “I’ll try to do better next time.”

“There won’t be a next time. I won’t put you in that position again.” Natalie turned when she heard a knock at the front door.

“I’ll get it.” Terry set her cup down and walked quickly into the living room.

“I smell something wonderful that I can’t have,” Andrea said as Terry opened the door.

“Oh, the rolls.” Terry sprinted into the kitchen and pulled them out of the oven.

Andrea followed her with the dogs clamoring at her feet demanding attention. After she’d loved on them both, she gave Natalie a hug. “Thought I’d come by this morning and check on you.”

“Let me get you a cup of coffee.” Natalie moved around the counter and poured Andrea a cup. “Terry’s been outside this morning already and says everything looks good. What’s the word on Tom?”

“He dodged a bullet.” Andrea put her hand over her mouth as her eyes widened. “No pun intended. That came out all wrong.” Andrea took a sip of her coffee and continued. “The arrow missed all the important stuff, but it did nick something that caused a lot of bleeding. He’s gonna make it, though, and that’s the important thing.”

“Well, thank God for that,” Natalie said. “I like Tom. I hated to hear about the accident.”

Andrea’s eyes settled on Terry as she fanned the rolls that were too hot to ice. “Between me and you girls, I listened to the talk last night, and they’re not too convinced it was an accident.” Terry dropped the towel and turned her complete attention to Andrea. “They’ve talked to all the people that hunt, and most of them were at work. The ones that were at home had not been in the woods. Then again, people do lie.”  Terry’s stare was unwavering.

“It could’ve been someone new to the area.” Natalie looked between Andrea and Terry who seemed to be in a stare-down.

“Could be,” Andrea agreed before taking a sip of her coffee. “They’ll be talking to everyone that lives around here, I expect. When it’s one of their own, you know they headhunt.”

Terry folded her arms and pivoted from foot to foot. “This changes things if they don’t think it was an accident.”

“But still, it might not be related to what’s going on with me. My case wasn’t the only thing Tom was working on,” Natalie said.

“True, but we’d be foolish not to be even more vigilant. Going out in the backyard is a risk. We could be picked off just as easily. The same woods that run behind Tom’s place run behind here, too.”

Natalie opened her mouth to say something, but Andrea cut in. “I know what you’re thinking. Surely, the person that did this is not going to hang around, but that’s how a sane person reasons. We don’t know who we’re dealing with.”

Terry nodded emphatically.

Andrea focused on Terry then. “As I said, the sheriff’s office is going to be talking to everyone. Tom was shot at seven forty-five. Do y’all remember where you were at that time?” she asked pointedly as she looked at Terry.

“I was logged in at the security gate sometime around five forty. In addition, my supervisor and a dozen other people can verify that because I was at the safety meeting,” Terry said.

“And I have no alibi.” Natalie set her cup on the counter. “I was here alone getting dressed at that time. I didn’t get to your store until almost eight.”

“How do they know he was shot at seven forty-five?” Terry asked.

“They’re guesstimating,” Andrea said. “He went out at seven. Clara said she brought him another cup of coffee around seven thirty, then she found him a little after eight.”

“Then there’s no way they can suspect Natalie of anything,” Terry argued. “She showed up at the store at almost eight. She wouldn’t have had time to shoot Tom and get back through the woods, then to the store at that time. Even if there was a discrepancy of minutes, it still isn’t enough time.”

“Me and Clyde can verify what time she showed up,” Andrea said with a nod. “You’re in the clear, kid.”

Natalie cocked her head to the side and looked at Andrea. “Was there ever any doubt in your mind?”

“No, honey, not in my mind.” Andrea smiled as she took the last sip of her coffee. “I gotta get to the store, got lots of things to tend to.”

“I’ll walk you out.” Terry rubbed Natalie’s shoulder as she turned to her. “We should be fine in the front yard,” she said with a reassuring smile.

“What were you getting at in there?” Terry asked when Andrea had descended the last of the porch steps.

“What I have to say will really upset her, so if you open your mouth, I’m gonna be pissed.” Terry opened Andrea’s car door and Andrea sank down onto the seat with a huff. “Randall, the first deputy that came out here, has been telling everyone he thinks Natalie’s been doing all this for attention. He’s got his sights set on her.”

“You have got to be shitting me,” Terry said angrily. “Slash her own tire and shoot someone just for attention? That’s all they can come up with?”

“From what I heard, they don’t have much of anything else.” Andrea slowly pulled her legs into the car and sighed.

“Maybe we should leave.” Terry banged her hand on the top of Andrea’s car. “Maybe I should take her off somewhere if this is how they’re looking at it.”

“You know better than that. They’re not going to want you to go anywhere. After they research Natalie’s story and do the math, they’re gonna have to focus on someone else. Best thing to do is stay put.” Andrea reached up and grabbed a handful of Terry’s shirt and tugged hard until Terry bent to face her. “I’m counting on you to watch over her. You’ve volunteered for the job, and you better do it well. You hear me, girl?”

Terry blinked rapidly as she looked at Andrea. Her gaze moved down to the white-knuckled grip that Andrea had on her shirt, then back up to Andrea’s eyes. “I hear you.”

Andrea released her and took a deep breath. “I don’t know you very well, but I’m a good judge of character, and I’m banking on you. That woman in there is like a daughter to me. She doesn’t have anyone else but us.”

“I’ll take care of her, I promise.” Terry straightened her shirt and took a step back for Andrea to close her door. Andrea rolled down the window and looked at her. “If anything happens, I want to be the next person you call after the police.”

Terry nodded as Andrea turned the engine on and backed down the driveway.

“What was that all about?” Natalie asked when Terry walked back into the house. She was sitting on the couch with a full view of the driveway.

“She wanted to make sure I knew how much you mean to her,” Terry said with a smile.

Natalie picked at a piece of lint on her pants. “Did it cross your mind that I might be the shooter?”

“I know you’re not, beyond a shadow of a doubt.”

“Ellie, I’m at work,” Lyn said when she saw the name on her ID.

“I know where you’re at, dumbass. I know where she’s at, too, tucked away all cozy in the house. I know everything y’all do.”

Lyn pursed her lips as she looked around. “Aside from disrupting my day, what do you want?”

“Cash, and not what’s in your purse. I’ll take a thousand.”

“I’m not giving you a loan,” Lyn said between clenched teeth.

Ellie laughed. “No, you’re not. But if you want peace, you’ll fork over the money. I’m going away for a while, and I need what you owe me.”

“Owe you?” Lyn asked.

“I carried you for a while when you were laid off, now I want to be compensated.”

“You drained by bank account twice,” Lyn said angrily. “You got your compensation and more.”

“That was due to me for putting up with your whiney fucking ass. Now it’s simple. You give me the money and I go away, and you can stop looking over your shoulder.”

Lyn knew that was a lie for as long as Ellie was drawing breath into her lungs she would always be looking over her shoulder. “You know I don’t have that kind of money lying around. That’s my rent.”

“She’s got money. Let her take care of you like I did. And don’t say anything else,” Ellie said quickly. “You’re about to go to lunch. Instead of stuffing your face, meet me in the parking lot of the grocery store two blocks down in fifteen minutes with the money.”

I can’t—” Lyn looked at her phone. The call had ended. She had fifteen minutes before she went on break. Her hand shook as she pulled her checkbook from her purse. She wasn’t sure what rattled her more—having to shell out the money or having to come face to face with Ellie again.

Ellie’s car was parked at the far corner of the lot when Lyn pulled in. She backed in, hoping that all she would have to do was roll down her window and pass the envelope to Ellie without either of them having to get out of the car. She watched as the dark tinted window rolled down. Ellie was looking directly at her. It sent chills down her spine. The skin beneath Ellie’s eyes was puffy and dark; she looked like she hadn’t slept in a month.

Lyn held the envelope out the window, and Ellie took it with a smile. “Are you really leaving?”

Ellie looked down, and Lyn knew she was counting the money. Her eyes were cold when she looked back up. “You and your bitch bore me. I’m gonna do some traveling.”

“What about your job? You didn’t have a whole lot of vacation time.”

“I quit.” Ellie smiled sardonically. “I told you I’m done here. If I need more of this,” she waved the wad of bills, “I’ll be in touch.” She backed out of her parking place and drove off without another word.

Lyn rolled her window up and exhaled a deep breath. With shaking hands, she gripped the wheel and watched Ellie’s car fade from sight. Ellie had worked for Intellix for years and had been the recipient of many service awards. To up and quit was bizarre even for her. She should’ve been relieved that Ellie was moving on, but the gnawing sensation in the pit of her stomach robbed her of any relief she should have felt.

Lyn put her sunglasses atop her head as she sat gathering her wits for the short drive back to work. Ominous dark clouds moved overhead. A storm was coming. The epitome of what she felt inside. A storm was coming, and she wondered if she and those she loved would survive it. She was about to do something she rarely did—go home sick. It wasn’t a lie. She felt she would vomit at any moment.

Chapter Thirty

Natalie watched dark clouds roll in ahead of a cool front that had finally made its way south. The trees in her front yard swayed in the wind; the rain wouldn’t be far behind. The house was dark except for the light in the kitchen where Terry sat on the floor. A hinge on one of the kitchen cabinets needed to be replaced, and Terry was busy working on it. Harley lay on the floor beside her watching every move while Paisley followed Natalie’s every step.

“What is it?” Natalie looked down at her. “Need to go out before the rain starts?”

Paisley’s ears perked and she began a dance. Natalie walked through the kitchen and called out to Harley. “Need to go out, boy?” He jumped up and followed her to the door.

“Don’t go out there,” Terry warned.

“I’m just going to open the door and put them on their cables. They need to get used to going without me having to stand outside.”

“Excellent idea.” Terry pulled herself to her feet and washed her hands while looking over her shoulder at Natalie as she came back in. “You need to step away. They’ll stand there and wait for as long as they can see you.”

Natalie walked over and handed Terry a towel. She tucked a strand of hair behind Terry’s ear as she dried her hands. “What will you busy yourself with now?”

“I dunno, what else you got that needs fixing?” she asked with a grin.

Natalie wrapped her arms around Terry’s neck and mimicked her tone. “I’ve got two lips that need kissing.”

Terry didn’t hesitate as she wrapped her arms around Natalie’s waist and met her lips. Terry’s kiss was gentle, but as Natalie wove her fingers into Terry’s hair, the kiss became more insistent.

Natalie was breathing heavily as she broke the kiss and looked into Terry’s eyes. “Do you know what stormy days are good for?”

Terry raised a brow. “Umbrellas?”

Natalie leaned in and kissed Terry’s neck. “Surely you can come up with something better than that.”

Terry’s body tensed when Natalie nibbled her earlobe. “Natalie, I…”

Natalie pulled back and looked into Terry’s eyes. “Lyn and I are not going to be anything more than friends. I told her that yesterday.”

Terry’s grin transformed her face. “Say it.”

“Say what?”

“Say that you want me, and I’m yours.”

“Oh, I want you.” Natalie tugged on Terry’s shirt as she backed toward the hallway. The look in Terry’s eyes went from playful to the intense gaze that curled Natalie’s toes in a heartbeat. Natalie felt her back meet the wall in the hallway as Terry pushed her. Terry’s mouth was on hers hot and passionate. She groaned into the kiss and tried to pull her closer, but Terry’s hands were busy with the buttons on her shirt. Natalie pulled Terry’s sweatshirt over her head and removed her sports bra just as quick. Her hands kneaded bare flesh as Terry pushed her shirt off her shoulders and kissed the skin above her bra. Her hands moved down Natalie’s hips and gripped just beneath her thighs, pulling her up off the ground.

Natalie laughed as she looked down at Terry. “You’re gonna hurt yourself. I’m heavier than I look.”

“I’m stronger than I look.” Terry carried Natalie, laughing down the hall and into her bedroom.

Natalie reached for the lamp, suddenly self-conscious of the scars that covered her body. She felt a strong hand grip her wrist, felt Terry whisper against her ear, “Don’t.”

“I…” Lips sucked gently on her earlobe, robbing her of the ability to speak.

“My body isn’t perfect, but I won’t hide it from you.” Terry’s breath was warm against her ear, her neck. Warm wet kisses covered her throat and chest. “Despite what you may think, you are perfect in every way.”

Natalie filled her hands with Terry’s dark curls, her hair felt lush and thick, soft to her touch. It sifted through her fingers as Terry moved lower, kissing her way along a scar. Her lips were replaced with her cheek as she rubbed her face across Natalie’s skin, a soft moan slipped from her lips. “So sweet, so soft.”

Natalie reached for those curls again and pulled Terry up for a kiss. Terry’s lips were soft, her touch tender as she stroked her cheek. Terry pulled away and looked into her eyes. “I love you. I think I fell the minute I saw you in that store.” She smiled shyly as she pressed a finger to Natalie’s lips. “I’ve lived for years picturing the perfect woman in my mind. I cheated myself because no one could ever live up to that image. Then one day, I saw her in the flesh just as I’d imagined. I was so afraid the real woman wouldn’t be as great, but as I got to know her, she was even more amazing than anything I could ever conjure.” She replaced her finger with a kiss sweet and tender.

Natalie was stunned as Terry kissed her way down her body. Maybe she hadn’t put a face to the woman of her dreams, but the woman in her arms had just put to word everything she ever wanted to hear. The scars she was so ashamed of faded from her mind. She opened herself up to Terry’s kisses, her caresses as her heart and mind opened to the love that was being lavished on her so completely.

“Gonna be a frog choker out there today,” Clyde Bordelon said as he walked into Andrea’s store and laid an envelope on her counter. “Tom’s awake. Clara spoke to him this morning. I didn’t get in to see him, though. Between Clara and the captain, I didn’t stand a chance. I gotta go before the rain sets in.” He turned and walked out before Andrea was able to utter a word.

She opened the envelope and put on her glasses. Terry’s lease held no surprises. The contact information sheet was filled out in neat block handwriting. Everything there was exactly what she told her and Natalie.

Lyn’s information sheet looked much the same. Andrea squinted to read the scrawled words that appeared to be written hastily. Andrea’s brow rose as she read over the employment section. “Loan officer?” she said aloud. Andrea stared off into space as she recalled what Natalie had told her. She works for an office supply company.

Andrea’s bones started calling out in warning. Why would Lyn lie about something like this? She looked at the phone number next to the bank address. It had the same prefix as her cell phone. “Bet that doesn’t ring at her office. What are you hiding?”

Andrea pulled out her phone book and looked up the name Lyn Stoddard. The address matched the previous address Lyn had given on her information sheet. Andrea jotted the number on her palm. “Dexter, I’m leaving. Keep an eye on the place.”

Rain began to splatter huge drops on the windshield when Andrea climbed into her car. She plugged in her headset and dialed the number as she pulled out of the parking lot intent on going straight to Natalie’s place.

The voice that answered didn’t sound familiar. “Lyn?” Andrea asked.

“Yes.”

“I’m not sure I have the right person. Lyn Stoddard that lives on Cutcher Street?”

“That’s my name, but…that’s not where I live. Who is this?”

“My name is Andrea Thoreau. A woman claiming to be Lyn Stoddard lives next door to my best friend. I have a copy of her rental application, and the previous address she gave matches the one in the phone book with this phone number.” The phone went silent. “Hello?”

“I…there must be some sort of mistake.”

“You know the woman that uses your identity.” It wasn’t a question. Andrea listened as the woman exhaled shakily.

“She’s my ex. Given her credit history, you might not’ve rented to her, so she used mine. This isn’t the first time.”

Andrea was forced to pull to the shoulder of the road when the rain began hammering her windshield and overwhelming her wipers. She pressed her finger in her other ear to drown out the noise. “What is this woman’s real name?”

“Look,” Lyn said cautiously. “This woman makes my life a living hell. My girlfriend is on the verge of leaving me because of her antics, so I don’t want my name to come up. She told me today that she was leaving town, so if she hasn’t paid her rent, I doubt you’ll get it.”

Andrea decided to let Lyn go on believing she was the landlord. “What kind of antics?”  The phone went silent again. “Are you still there?”

“I…I shouldn’t be talking to you. If this comes back on me, there could be trouble.”

“I swear to you that I will not say a word,” Andrea pleaded. “She’s befriended someone special to me, and there have been strange occurrences. I think she might be connected. I need your help.”

“What type of occurrences?”

“I think she’s been in her house and took personal items. Her tires were slashed the other day.” Andrea cursed the rain in her mind as she pulled slowly back on the road with a sense of urgency.

“One of mine was slashed, too, so you can understand why I am hesitant to talk to you. This is dangerous for me. She’s been in my house, too, and taken things that belonged to my partner.”

“I understand, I really do,” Andrea said anxiously. “But you’ve got to help me. I think my friend’s life is in danger. What is her name?”

“Ellie…Ellie Carson.”

Andrea cursed softly as she maneuvered through the storm. “There was a deputy looking into Natalie’s case, and he was shot. It appeared to be a hunting accident, but I’m not so sure. Neither are the police.”

“Are you asking me if I think Ellie could be capable?” Lyn asked after a long period of silence.

“Yes.”

“She’s been more unstable lately…I think she may’ve poisoned our dog, but I couldn’t prove it.”

Andrea did her best to remain patient. “Do you think she’s capable of harming someone?”

“Yes, I do.”

“Have you ever gone to the police?” Andrea asked anxiously.

“Of course I did. But with no forced entry and only missing underwear to report, they blew me off. I’ve changed my locks twice, and she still manages to get in. She’s smart, Ms. Thoreau, and very vindictive. Does your friend have any proof? Something she can take to the police?”

“Meet with us, I’m begging you. We can compare notes and go to the police. I’m on my way to Natalie’s house now.” Andrea was surprised at the desperate tone she was hearing in her own voice. “Before someone else gets hurt.”

“I…” Andrea heard Lyn’s sigh over the pounding of the rain. “Cutcher Street, what’s the address again?”

“1937. I’ll call you the minute I get there, and we’ll—” Andrea pulled the phone away from her face when she no longer noticed the static. Her signal was gone.

Chapter Thirty-one

“I didn’t expect you to be like this,” Terry said with a grin as she lay with her head propped in her hand.

“Like what?” Natalie was mimicking her pose and running her fingertips over a smooth hip.

“Aggressive. It was a very pleasant surprise.”

Natalie leaned in and kissed her, sucking on her bottom lip before pulling away. “There’s no way I could be satisfied if I couldn’t taste you,” she dipped her hand between Terry’s thighs, “touch you.” Natalie smiled as she heard Terry inhale sharply. In the distance, she could hear thunder, then the sound of storm warnings blaring from the TV in the living room. The dogs began to bark.

“The dogs,” Terry said as Natalie pushed her onto her back.

Natalie sat up. “They’re probably afraid of the storm. We should—” The words froze on Natalie’s lip when they heard the alarm panel chime indicating that the back door had opened.

Terry bolted upright. “Did you lock the back door?”

Natalie’s eyes went wide. “No, because I was going to let the dogs back in.”

“Shit!” Terry sprang up from the bed.

“My robe is hanging on a hook inside my closet door.” Natalie got up and pulled on her jeans as Terry shrugged the robe over her shoulders and moved into the hall. Natalie was pulling on her sweatshirt when she heard a thud in the hallway, then two more.

“Terry?” she called out and listened to footfalls coming down the hall.

“No, not Terry.” Lyn stepped into the doorway.

“Oh, my God, you scared us so bad,” Natalie said shakily. Lyn looked at her unsmiling, then at the bed. Natalie felt her face flush, but embarrassment was fleeting as she began to wonder why Lyn was standing in her bedroom. “Where’s Terry?”

Lyn did smile then. “Bleeding all over your hallway.”

Realization struck Natalie so hard, she staggered. Lyn was on her in an instant. She jerked her roughly by the shirt and forced Natalie to look down at the knife protruding from her boot. She pulled Natalie upright until they were face to face. “I’ll gut you and her if you don’t do exactly as I say.” She leaned in and smelled Natalie’s face. “You smell like sex! Bitch!” She slapped Natalie so hard that she landed on the bed.

Natalie saw stars and flashes of white light as Lyn grabbed her again and wrenched her to her feet. She screamed when Lyn twisted her arm up behind her back. “Walk,” Lyn said coldly.

Natalie’s legs felt useless and weak as Lyn shoved her into the hall. Bile rose in her throat as she saw Terry lying motionless on the floor in front of the bathroom. “Oh, God, Terry.” The more she struggled, the higher Lyn pushed her arm. The pain was blinding as the muscles in her shoulder threatened to give way.

“Step over that piece of shit and keep walking,” Lyn commanded with clenched teeth.

Terry, facedown in a pool of blood, didn’t move.

The front door opened just before they stepped into the living room. Lyn released Natalie’s arm and stood close behind her as Andrea stepped in the door.

“What’re you doing here, Andrea?” Lyn asked calmly as she took Natalie by the hand and squeezed it tight, silently warning her not to make a move.

Andrea straightened her shoulders. “I was coming by to see Natalie.” The lines on her face deepened as she met Natalie’s eyes that no doubt telegraphed her terror.

“Why don’t you come in and shut that door? The rain’s blowing in,” Lyn said. Natalie fought the urge to gasp when Lyn pushed her thumb into the back of her hand. She opened her eyes wide and shook her head slightly, hoping that Andrea would back out of the door.

Lyn moved with the speed of lightning and grabbed Andrea by the arm. She shoved her violently toward Natalie, who was making a move for the kitchen. They both tumbled to the floor. “Your timing is gonna cost you a lot, you old bitch.” She knelt down and grabbed Andrea by the collar of her coat.

“Step away from them,” Terry said as she moved into the room. The gun in her hand shook as she tried to take aim.

Natalie gasped as she looked at the gash near Terry’s temple and the blood that dripped from her hair onto the cotton robe steadily broadening the stain across her shoulder and chest.

Lyn looked up at Terry. “If you’ve got a clear shot, you better take it.” She smiled back at Andrea still in her grasp. “Even if you weren’t shaking like a leaf and trying to blink blood out of your eye, the shot would be iffy. You might hit me, then you might hit one of them.” Lyn shrugged with a smug expression. “I’d take the shot if it were me, but I doubt you have the guts for it.”

Natalie’s heart sank. She too knew that Terry wouldn’t risk it. She stared out of the open door praying that someone would see them.

“I said step—”

Lyn stood and spun at the same time, whirling Andrea’s cane. It connected with Terry’s shoulder, knocking her into the wall. The gun skittered across the living room floor. She was on Terry in an instant, pinning her to the floor with her knee in her chest.

The dogs were barking and howling, unable to free themselves from the cables. Natalie rolled and got to her feet.

“Stop.” Lyn pulled the knife from her boot. Natalie froze as she saw the glint of steel and the jagged blade press against Terry’s throat. “Oh, now, Natalie, you have a dilemma.” Lyn’s grin was huge. “You can open that door and let those dogs in on me and you might just survive, but at what cost? I figure it will take you at least three steps to get to the door and a second or two to open it, judging by the way you’re shaking. In that amount of time, I will have slit her throat.” Lyn pushed her knee harder into Terry’s chest, making her grunt with pain.

“Then I’ll have seconds to get to the old woman. I figure I can have her throat open before the first dog makes it to me. And if I’m really lucky, I can take one of them out. The other might take me a minute or two, but how far will you get in that time? You move slow.” The pressure applied to Terry’s chest made the veins stand out in her neck. The blade rested firmly against the pulsing skin. “I may suffer a few injuries from the dogs, but I think I can get to you before you can get past the hedge in your yard.”

She looked up at Natalie as her grin slipped from her face. “Tally the score. One dead lover, one dead best friend, two dead dogs, and you’re still mine. You can spare their lives if you cooperate.”

Natalie moved over to Andrea with her gaze locked on Lyn.

“Get up, Andrea.” Terry grunted. “Get her out of here.”

Lyn pushed the tip of the knife into Terry’s skin as blood began to trickle. “Can’t reduce the odds, sugar. That old biddy will just slow you down.”

“Run,” Terry cried with a whimper.

Natalie met Terry’s eyes. They both knew she wouldn’t take the gamble. She sank to the floor next to Andrea as tears streamed down her face.

“No,” Terry cried pitifully as her own eyes filled with tears. “Run, please.”

Lyn smacked Terry on the forehead with the flat part of the blade. “Shut up.”

“It was you, wasn’t it?” Andrea said, distracting her. “Tom.”

“Ya know,” Lyn said eerily. “He was the first cop that made even a half-assed attempt. All the others just waved it off. I went in and out of homes with ease even after those women called the police.” She looked at Natalie. “He believed you, though.” She waved the knife in her direction. “There’s something special about you. I felt kind of bad for him when he hit the ground like a sack of rocks.”

“Why?” Natalie asked with a shake of her head.

Lyn stared at her for a moment. “You were rude and pushy. You needed to be taken down a notch.”

“What?” Natalie shook her head, trying to comprehend.

Lyn shifted her weight and pushed deeper into Terry’s chest, causing her to breathe in gasps. “I would’ve never even known you existed until you called Intellix. My first impression of you was that you were rude and arrogant.” She tilted her head to the side and regarded Natalie. “That call put you in my sights.”

Natalie watched transfixed as Lyn’s expression changed. The monster that had been hidden just below the surface emerged. Lyn’s head went down, and she stared at Natalie like a dog poised to bite. “You made a lot of bad choices, Nat. I was kinder to you than most. I was in this house and listened to you moving around. I could’ve taken you then, but I gave you the choice to come willingly.” She glared down at Terry and pushed her knee harder into her chest, causing her to gasp in pain. She looked back at Natalie. “But you chose her.”

Natalie’s jaw fell slack. “All of this over a single phone call?”

“It started out that way. I was just going to fuck with you, but, Nat, you’re different from the others. You’re my perfect match. And since you’re so shitty at making decisions, I’m going to tell you what you’re going to do next. Take the roll of duct tape out of the junk drawer, and I’ll tell you how I want these two tied up. Of course, if you don’t comply, I’ll only have to worry about Andrea because there’ll be no need to tie Terry.”

Andrea had watched the car pull into the driveway. She hoped that Natalie wouldn’t notice and cause the woman with the knife to look that way, too, but her focus was on Lyn and Terry pinned beneath her. Andrea swallowed hard as the woman walked up on the porch and looked through the window at the spectacle inside. Andrea thought she might scream as the woman hurriedly turned away. She stopped just short of going down the steps, then turned again.

Their eyes met when she returned to the window. “Oh, God,” Andrea screamed out and grabbed at her leg.

“What is it?” Natalie asked, looking at her.

“Muscle spasm,” Andrea grunted out.

In the commotion, no one heard the woman step into the room. “Ellie,” she said calmly. All eyes turned to her as she lifted the gun. “You’ve gone too far this time.”

“Ellie?” Natalie said.

The woman sitting atop Terry laughed as her shoulders sagged. She lifted one hand and waved. “That would be me.” She stopped laughing and looked back at the woman. “We both know you’re not going to shoot me. You’re as gutless as the rest. Bring me the gun before I have to add you to the body count.”

“Are you so sure?” Lyn cocked the hammer. “You’ve made my life miserable, and you’ll continue as long as there’s breath in your lungs.” Her hand shook slightly as she aimed.

Ellie laughed again. “You don’t even know how to use it.”

“You’ve made my life a living hell. You’ve been in my home, invaded my life. You have only yourself to blame for bringing me to this point.” Her voice was as cold as Ellie’s. “Who could blame me for pulling this trigger? I don’t see how I have a choice. You’re holding a knife to a woman’s throat.”

“Is it loaded, Lyn? Have you considered that? You could be standing there with an empty gun.”

“Don’t try to fuck with me, Ellie,” Lyn said angrily. “You two better move out of the way,” Lyn said as her gaze darted to Andrea and Natalie.

Natalie pulled Andrea behind the cabinet and peeked around. The action had little effect on Ellie, who didn’t move. “Give me the gun,” Ellie said calmly. “Just put it on the floor and kick it over. You don’t have to be a part of this. I told you I was leaving. You’ll never see me again.”

“Yes, you did tell me that, then you told me if you needed more money, you’d be back. You’re a liar, Ellie, you always have been.”

Natalie could see the steely look in the stranger’s eyes but wasn’t sure if she had the resolve to carry through on her threat. Slowly, she raised her hand up and opened the junk drawer. Her hand moved through quietly until she felt the grip of the screwdriver. If she could move fast enough, she could take the woman she now knew as Ellie by surprise. Andrea gripped her hand, her eyes wide. Natalie pried her fingers away and held a finger to her lips.

“Put the knife away and get off that woman,” the stranger said sternly. “I’ve already called the police. They’ll be here any moment.”

“I’m not lying now when I say I’ll slice her throat,” Ellie ground out. “Give me the gun!”

“I will shoot you, make no mistake about that,” Lyn said resolutely. “I can’t miss being this close.”

“Well, if I’m going, I’m not going to greet St. Peter alone.” Ellie looked down at Terry.

“It’s loaded, don’t stop firing until it’s empty,” Terry rasped out.

Ellie snarled. “Stupid fucker—”

Natalie dropped to the ground when the explosion echoed in her ears.

Epilogue

Natalie’s chest burned from the exertion it took to run half a mile. Sweat streamed down her face, her damp shirt clung to her back. The scent of spring was in the air. Trees sporting their new growth shaded her from the noonday sun. She breathed in deeply, filling her lungs with the sweet air.

“How far today?” Andrea asked from her seat on the porch.

“Walked a mile, ran a half,” Natalie said with a smile. “I won’t quit until I can do at least a mile.”

“I’m proud of you, kid. You’re really coming along.”

Natalie paced back and forth as she cooled.

Andrea regarded her seriously. “It’s good to see you getting back into life.” Andrea looked away. “You’ve lost so much I was afraid that…”

“How’s Tom?” Natalie asked, changing the subject.

“He’s good, danced with his daughter at the wedding. It was beautiful. I wish you would’ve come.”

Natalie rubbed the sweat from the back of her neck. “I’m still not too comfortable being around a lot of people.”

Andrea pursed her lips and nodded. “Given any thought to what I asked you?”

Natalie had avoided answering the question for a while. She’d thought about it a lot, but the answer was always the same. Where could she go where she would feel safer? The alarm, dogs, and weapon had all failed her. The only reason they were still alive was the courage of a stranger. “Got a serious offer on the house.” She paused and looked at Andrea. “I’m gonna sell it, but I think I may stay in the area.”

Andrea smiled as relief flooded her face. “I’ve been waiting for months to hear you say that.” She cleared her throat. “Spoke to the real Lyn, she’s doing okay.”

“I still can’t stand hearing that name.” Natalie clenched her fists. “We’re gonna have to think of something else to call her.”

“She’s a nice woman, been through a lot, too.”

“I know,” Natalie said with a sigh. “I’m so grateful to her. It’s just hard to hear the name. I always think of…her when I hear it. Unfortunately, Ellie Carson will always be Lyn to me.” Natalie turned away and looked out into the woods. “I owe you my life, you know. If you hadn’t listened to your bones and checked things out…I wouldn’t be here right now.”

“You would’ve done the same for me.”

Natalie could hear Andrea squirming in her seat, uncomfortable with the acknowledgment. She could hear Andrea sniffing. She’d cried every time they talked about that day. For the first time, Natalie didn’t react the same. A cool feeling swept through her as the events of that day flowed through her mind. “On days like this, I think I should go back to school and study psychology. Maybe it’d help me wrap my brain around all of this.”

“I think that might just be your undoing. There’s no way to heal evil, it’s just what it is.” Andrea cleared her throat. “There’s tons of Ellies out there, and no one has found a way to fix them yet.”

Natalie scuffed at the ground with her shoe. “She sat at my kitchen table and basically told me about herself, accusing Lyn of being who she really was. “‘Just crazy,’ is what she said. She made comments about evil being all around us. I never connected the dots.”

“She knew what she was,” Andrea said brusquely. “It was all a very sick game she enjoyed playing. When someone’s crazy, it shows. They’re not aware that the things they do are wrong, but she knew.” Andrea sighed loudly. “But she won’t do it anymore.”

“No, no, she won’t.” Natalie turned when she heard the dogs coming up the path, biting and growling at each other.

“What are you really gonna do with your life now?” Andrea asked.

Natalie’s smile grew wider as she saw a lean figure slowly coming up the trail. “I’m doing it. I’m going to live each day as the precious gift that it is.” She planted her hands on her hips and laughed. “Oh, but you’re slow!”

“Unlike somebody, I ran two miles,” Terry jogged the last few steps and grabbed Natalie around the waist. “You let her off the hook yet?” She tossed her head in Andrea’s direction.

The both grinned back at Andrea, and Natalie said, “Yep, we’re staying.”

Andrea beamed. “I can talk to Clyde. He’ll give you a good deal on this cabin.”

About the Author

Robin Alexander is the author of the Goldie Award-winning Gloria’s Secret and seven other novels for Intaglio Publications—Gloria’s Inn, Gift of Time, Murky Waters, The Taking of Eden, Love’s Someday, Pitifully Ugly, and Undeniable. Her short story “Crossing the Line” can be found in the anthology Romance for Life.

Robin spends her days working with the staff of Intaglio and her nights with her own writings. She still manages to find time to spend with her partner, Becky, and their three dogs and three cats.

You can reach her at robinalex65@yahoo.com. You can also visit her Web site at www.robinalexanderbooks.com.

Also by Robin Alexander:

Undeniable

by Robin Alexander

ISBN: 978-1-935216-28-5

After twenty years, Samantha Jackson comes face to face with Jennifer Tanner at a memorial service for a mutual friend. Her plan is simple—pay her respects and maybe have an amicable conversation with the one person who affected her life the most.

Jennifer needs answers to questions that she has carried into adulthood. Circumstances, though unfortunate, have given her that opportunity. She wanted closure; instead, the revelations leave her with anything but resolution.

Two souls come to realize that sometimes love is simply—undeniable.

Pitifully Ugly

by Robin Alexander

ISBN: 978-1-935216-21-6

Shannon Brycen has decided to enter the dating world again after taking a hiatus from love. There’s only one problem—well, many—but her reclusive personality and her sister’s disastrous attempts at matchmaking force Shannon to try a different approach.

Hiding behind the online persona of Pitifully Ugly, Shannon finds the confidence she needs to pursue women, and the hunt is on. Many humorous lessons are learned along the way to her perfect match.

Love’s Someday

by Robin Alexander

ISBN: 978-1-935216-08-7

Price: $16.95

Ashleigh Prather committed the sin of omission when she failed to reveal secrets of her past to her lover of five years. Her relationship becomes the casualty when the past and present collide. Erica Barrett’s world is turned upside down when she is forced to watch Ashleigh confront old demons and become someone she doesn’t recognize.

Is love worth fighting for when you realize that you never truly knew the person you’ve shared five years of your life with?

The Gift of Time

Robin Alexander

ISBN: 978-1-933113-82-1

Price: $16.95

Leah Marks has no idea what is missing from her quiet, uneventful life until a simple change in her daily routine alters her existence. From the moment she meets antique dealer, Reagan Montgomery, Leah’s world is turned upside down. A unique gift given to her by Reagan leads them on a journey that defies logic and the laws of time.

The Gift of Time is a story of love, devotion and a bond that has carried two women from one life to the next.

Gloria’s Inn

by Robin Alexander

ISBN: 1-933113-01-4

Price: $16.95

Hayden Tate suddenly found herself in a world unlike any other, when she inherited half of an inn nestled away on Cat Island in the Bahamas. Expecting something like the resorts found in Nassau, Hayden was shocked and a little disappointed to find herself on a beautiful tropical island undiscovered by tourism. Hayden reluctantly begins to adapt to a simpler way of life found on the island, and her conversion is often comical.

Not only did Hayden’s aunt leave her an inn, but the company of her former business partner as well. Strange as she is beautiful, Adrienne turns Hayden’s world upside down in many ways. Hayden quickly learns that being with Adrienne will always be an adventure.

The tranquility of the island is shattered with the disappearance of a mysterious guest. Hayden and Adrienne soon find themselves at the center of a murder investigation, fearing for their own safety and the lives of their guests. Eager to rid themselves and the island of a ruthless killer, Adrienne and Hayden decide to conduct their own investigation. The eclectic mixture of guests and staff make their efforts both interesting and humorous.

Gloria’s Secret

Robin Alexander

ISBN: 978-1-933113-93-7

Price: $16.95

2008 Golden Crown Award Winner - Mystery

Hayden Tate had hoped that life on Cat Island would be peaceful with her former trouble causing handyman Hank out of the picture. But when strange occurrences and noises begin to happen around the inn she operates with her partner Adrienne once again the top suspect is Hank the only problem is – Hank is dead.

In this long awaited sequel to Gloria’s Inn, Hayden and Adrienne join their zany guests for another madcap adventure.

Upcoming Works by Robin Alexander

Gloria’s Legacy

by Robin Alexander

ISBN: 978-1-935216-30-8

Price: $16.95

Release Date August 2011

In the third installment of the series, Hayden and Adrienne have decided to take the next step in their relationship—motherhood. Adrienne embraces the challenges that pregnancy presents, Hayden…not so much.

To convolute matters, a strange guest has arrived at the inn alone. Along with her baggage, she carries two secrets that bring disruption and danger to the island paradise.

Half To Death

by Robin Alexander

ISBN: 978-1-935216-31-5

Price: $16.95

Release Date September 2011

During a hiking trip with friends, Sloan Hawkins has a near-death experience. She returns home with a different take on life and a few side effects that are sometimes disturbing.

Published by

Intaglio Publications

Walker, La.

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www.intagliopub.com

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