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Chapter or Story
Disclaimer: In first chapter
Chapter 12
Miss Parker sat in a chair facing Lyle as Broots called the Blue Cove police station. She had the knife in one hand and the gun in the other, pointed at Lyle. Miss Parker still didn’t know what to think. She had a feeling Lyle was up to no good, but what was it? Lyle looked like the picture of serenity, sitting over there all calm and collective. She would love nothing more than to wipe that smirk off his face.
Lyle tilted his head to the side an asked with amusement, “What’s the matter, sis? You look...troubled.”
Miss Parker sat up straighter. “The only thing troubling in this room is you. Of course, that problem can be taken care of with a bullet.”
Lyle just smiled at her. “Touché, touché.”
After Broots hung up the phone he walked back over to Miss Parker. “Well, what did they say?” she asked.
Broots cleared his throat. He never liked being the bearer of bad news when it came to Miss Parker. “Lyle’s story holds up. He was pulled over last night, or actually the night before, at 9:08pm. He fought with the arresting officer, causing him to stay longer in jail. He was let out today at 2:02 am. Everything seems to check out, Miss Parker.”
“Are you satisfied now?” asked Lyle smugly.
Miss Parker rubbed her forehead, pinching the bridge of her nose. She hated to admit this, but maybe Lyle was telling the truth. There’s always a first for something. She was broken out of her reverie by Broots’ voice. “What do we do now?”
“I don’t know,” she whispered to herself.
Broots could see the uncertainty written across Miss Parker’s face. He leaned back against the counter and hung his head low, letting out a defeated sigh. He was so sure that Lyle held the key to Debbie’s whereabouts. It felt like he was running in circles, making no progress. When he looked back up again he saw Jarod walking into the kitchen, standing behind Lyle. He looked over at Miss Parker who gave Jarod a puzzled look. If Lyle saw Jarod, they could both be in a heap of trouble.
Lyle noticed Broots and Miss Parker staring at something behind him. He didn’t like it. He could feel the hairs on the back of his neck rising. When Lyle brought his hand up to rub the back of his neck, someone grabbed it. “What the hell?” When he turned around he couldn’t believe it. It was Jarod. ‘Great, perfect ending to a perfect evening,’ he thought to himself sarcastically. He looked back over at Miss Parker, expecting her to do something.
Miss Parker bit down on her lip to keep herself from laughing. Quirking an eyebrow up at Lyle she asked, “What’s the matter, Lyle? You seem a bit....troubled.”
“Do something,” he growled out.
Miss Parker shook her head sadly at him. “Sorry, no can do.” She then let her gaze fall upon Jarod. “Did you find out anything?”
Jarod gave Lyle a disgusted look, throwing his hand back down. He sat down in the seat between Miss Parker and Lyle. Setting his laptop on the table, he turned it on and gave it to Miss Parker.
Broots stood behind Miss Parker, leaning down to look at the screen. Just like the phone call earlier, they found police reports and the security tape of Lyle in jail. Broots looked back at Jarod. “If Lyle didn’t do it, then why is he being set up?”
Before Jarod answered, Lyle chimed in. “What are you talking about? Who’s setting me up? And for what?” he demanded. No one answered him. Feeling irritated, he slammed his fist down on the table. “I have a right to know,” he spat out.
Taking the laptop from Miss Parker, Jarod typed in some commands. When he got what he needed, he let Lyle have the laptop. Lyle watched the video of Debbie that was sent to Broots’ email. When he was done watching the video he looked back up. “I can’t believe this. You three come barging into my house, because you thought I set this all up. Do you really think I would dress up like Raines, and forget something foolish as my leather glove? Please, if I was really behind this, which I’m not, I would have made sure to leave no clues.” He paused an added, “No one likes a messy crime.”
Miss Parker leaned forward, resting her elbows on the table. She look at Lyle with such intensity that Lyle shrunk back a little in his chair. “It’s been my experience Lyle, that if it looks like crap, smells like crap, it’s most likely crap.” Leaning back in her chair she asked, “Lyle, I know you know things, so tell me, who put a hit out on me?”
Lyle shook his head. “Here we go again. Time to pull out the conspiracy card when something goes wrong. What makes you think I know anything about that?”
“With me dead, it leaves the path open for other people, or in your case, flesh eating monsters in charge of the Centre.”
Lyle couldn’t help but smile at the little nickname. “Flesh eating monster, that has a nice ring to it. I wonder if I could put that on my business card.” Through his laughter he said, “Flesh eating monster, at your service.”
Jarod was getting annoyed at Lyle. Bolting up from his chair, Jarod grabbed Lyle by his tie, pulling him up. “Listen here you son of bitch! Time is of the essence. It’s time you start sobering up and get serious. Someone has kidnapped Debbie, using her against Broots. The only way for Broots to get Debbie back is to kill Miss Parker. Also, there is someone out there who is trying to put this all on you.” Emphasizing his point, Jarod tugged harder on the tie. “Now, do I have your complete attention?”
Lyle could feel his airway become smaller and smaller. He tried to push Jarod’s hands away, but they were too strong. He tried to answer Jarod, but nothing would come out. Instead, all he could do was shake his head up and down.
“Good.” Jarod threw Lyle back down onto the chair.
Lyle was seething. The only thing running through his mind at the moment was that Jarod would pay for what he just did. Bastard. He loosened his tie, rubbing his neck. “Well, Jarod, since you’re such a genius, what do we do?”
“I say it’s time we pay Mr. Raines a visit.”
XXXXXXXX
Kidnapper's Lair
Kevin walked into the dimly lit room. Walking over to a TV monitor, he saw Debbie in her room crying, curled up in a fetal position on the cot. Satisfied at the sight, he sat down in a chair and grabbed a magazine. This was the part he hated. It was now a waiting game. He looked down at his watch, just another hour or two before the drop off went down.
The magazine didn’t do anything to curb his boredom. Looking back at the monitor, he found a way to pass the time, while having a little fun also. Throwing the magazine down on the table he headed down the hallway towards Debbie’s room.
XXXXXXXX
Lyle's House
Broots didn’t like the sound of that. Raines always gave him the creeps, more so after that crazy dream he had of him and Miss Parker, while they were in Vegas. “Mr. Wiggles,” he said under his breath, shaking the image out of his head.
“What did you say, Broots?” Miss Parker asked.
“Hmm, oh nothing. Just rambling to myself.” Looking at Jarod he asked, “Are you sure it will be a good idea to go to Raines’ house? His place has to be crawling with sweepers.”
“It’s the only option we have left. If we can’t get anything from Raines, then we’ll have to wait for the kidnapper to call about Debbie, and that could be walking into a lion’s den,” replied Jarod.
Lyle rolled his eyes at Broots. “Suck it up, computer man.” Changing the subject he asked, “Is it alright if I use the restroom. I’ve got blood oozing and drying up on my face?”
“Fine. Jarod, you go with him. Make sure he doesn’t try anything funny,” answered Miss Parker.
“I’m truly hurt, Parker. It’s a sad day when you can’t trust family,” he said, feigning the hurt in his voice, while grinning at her.
“Family? Please,” she scoffed.
When Jarod and Lyle were out of the room, she turned her attention to Broots. She was still angry with him for what he did. Getting up, she walked over to Broots. Pushing him up against the wall, she stood mere inches from him. “Since they’re out of the room it’s time you an I had a little talk.”
Broots didn’t like this. He could see the anger and hurt in her eyes. “Miss Parker, I know what you’re going to say. I know you wanted me to stay put until Jarod found a plan, but I couldn’t wait,” he said rapidly.
She pushed her index finger into Broots’ chest. “Broots, if someone looked in a dictionary, your picture would be right by the word ‘moron’. God, you could have gotten yourself killed tonight. What made you think you could take on Lyle by yourself?”
Miss Parker’s words stung Broots. Feeling ashamed he looked down at his feet. “I’m sorry, but if I had to do it over again I would.”
Miss Parker took a step back, looking at the feeble man before her. Letting out a deep sigh, she put her hand on his shoulder. “Broots, you’re the only father Debbie will ever have. I know your heart is in the right place, but there comes a time when you have to listen to your mind instead of your heart.” She paused an added, “The logical part will keep you alive, not the emotional part.”
Broots looked up at her. “Do you truly believe that, Miss Parker?”
She let her hand slip from Broots’ shoulder, giving him a dumbfounded look. Feeling defensive, she crossed her arms. “Yes, I do.”
He gave her a solemn look. “Then I feel sorry for you.”
Miss Parker was somewhat surprised by Broots’ words. Trying to recover, she put up her ice queen façade. “Don’t pity me. That way of thinking has kept me alive over the years,” she said coldly.
Broots seemed unfazed by her demeanor. “Tell me then, Miss Parker, what have you got to show for it?”
She was speechless. All she could mutter out was, “I...I.”
Broots had to be careful. He knew he was walking on thin ice right now. Saying the wrong thing to her could make her erupt like a volcano. “The only thing you have to show for it is an ulcer and loneliness. I know you think showing emotions is a sign of weakness, but if you don’t let your heart shine you might as well be a zombie walking the earth, because all you’ll be in life is a lifeless soul walking around in a shell of a body.” He paused an added, “Miss Parker, you’re such a strong and vibrant person. I just hate seeing a friend slowly killing herself.”
She turned around and walked over to the back door, staring out the window. She could feel the tears trying to escape from her eyes, but she wouldn’t let them. With her back facing Broots she commented, “Broots, let’s get one thing straight. I’m not your friend, but your boss, got it? Secondly, why would I take advice from someone like you,” she said caustically. Taking another deep breath she turned back around.
Broots knew Miss Parker to well. When people got to close, she had to put up her ice queen shield, so she wouldn’t feel so vulnerable. Even though her words were a little hurtful, he knew she didn’t mean it. “Say what you will, Miss Parker, but I don’t think a boss would go to this much trouble helping a meager employee. This is something a friend would do.” He looked over at the kitchen entranceway to make sure Lyle and Jarod weren’t coming. Seeing they weren’t, he took a couple of steps closer to Miss Parker.
“What you just said a few seconds ago, about the logical part keeping you alive, is that what you’ve been doing when it comes to Jarod?” he asked curiously.
“I’m not discussing my personal life with you of all people,” she replied back. She tried to sound cold, but her voice betrayed her.
“Please, stop pretending, Miss Parker. For once, be the real you,” Broots said pleadingly.
“Easier said than done,” she scoffed.
Broots shook his head at her. “You make it harder than it has to be.”
She couldn’t help but stare at Broots in disbelief. “Broots, when did you become so brazen.”
Broots let out a soft chuckle. “What can I say? Maybe some of your boldness has rubbed off on me.”
She couldn’t help but laugh. “Well, I can’t help it if I’m a bad influence.
When the laughing subsided, Broots got more serious an asked, “Miss Parker, you didn’t answer my question from before?” He looked over his shoulder to make sure it was just him and Miss Parker in the kitchen. Satisfied that they were still alone, he finally asked the question that has been plaguing him all these years. Clearing his throat he asked, “Miss Parker, do you love, Jarod?”
Miss Parker was stunned by the question. Broots was now getting a little to close for comfort. All of a sudden she felt naked, exposed, vulnerable. To top it off it was in front of Broots of all people. Did she have feelings for Jarod? Is that why she never could catch Jarod? However, she knew the answers to those questions. If she wanted to, she knew she could catch Jarod, but she couldn’t, or more likely she wouldn’t, because this damn heart of hers always got in the way.
“Miss Parker?” asked Broots.
Luckily she didn’t have to answer his question when she saw Lyle and Jarod walk in. Grabbing his bag and laptop, Jarod asked, “Everyone ready to go?”
XXXXXXXX
Kidnapper's Lair
Debbie sat upright on her cot as she heard the door open. ‘Oh no, not him,’ she thought to herself. She quickly wiped the tears away from her face as he closed the door. Trying to take after Miss Parker, she raised her chin up defiantly, trying to show no fear.
Kevin stood by the door. Crossing his arms, he leaned his right side against the door, staring at the blonde headed girl before him. He couldn’t help but smile at the brave face she was putting on. Of course, it was all an act. “So, how do you like your new accommodations, Debbie?”
Debbie was doing all she could to keep herself from crying, but she had to be brave. “Well, it’s not the Hilton, but I guess it will have to do. The food on the other hand is down right awful. You might want to talk to the cook about that,” she replied nonchalantly. A chill went down her spine, as Kevin’s smile only got broader.
He pushed himself off the door, taking a couple of steps closer towards Debbie. “Well, I’ll make sure to tell him that.” He reached around his lower back, bringing out his gun. He got the response he wanted, when Debbie’s eyes got bigger, glistening with unshed tears, but she still didn’t buckle. “You’re probably wondering what I’m doing with this. Don’t worry, it’s not for you.”
Debbie never liked guns. She was scared of them. It always amazed her that something as small as a bullet could snuff out a life just like that, without any warning. Just like it did with Wayne. She could feel the unshed tears burning in her eyes, wanting release, but she couldn’t let them fall. She had to be strong. “Oh, I’m not worried. Only a coward would use a gun.” Debbie noticed the change in Kevin’s eyes. There was so much hatred and madness behind them.
Kevin took a step closer. He would love nothing more than to end this little brat’s life right now; unfortunately he had orders from his boss. “Hasn’t your Daddy ever told you that children should be seen and not heard?” He smiled as her bottom lip trembled. “Oh, don’t cry,” he said with mock concern.
“I’m not crying,” she said with denial. A couple of stray tears made their way down her cheeks.
Kevin was enjoying himself immensely. Kneeling down in front of her, he brought the gun up to her face, letting the muzzle run down her cheeks and jawbone. He laughed to himself as Debbie froze in pure terror. “What’s the matter, Debbie? Not so brave now, are we?”
Taking a deep breath she replied, “Go to hell.”
“Oh, don’t worry. I’m sure I will. Hey, I’ll probably even see Miss Parker and your father while I’m there,” he said teasingly.
“What are you talking about?” she asked, fear evident in her voice now.
Taking the gun away from her face, he stood back up. “See, the only way for your father to get you back is to kill Miss Parker.”
Debbie couldn’t believe what she just heard. No, it can’t be true. Her father couldn’t kill a fly. “You’re lying. My father would never do something like that.”
“Tell me, Debbie, how well do you know your father?”
“Well, I know he’s not a cold blooded killer like some people in this room are,” she said evenly.
“Debbie, I believe those sound like fighting words,” he replied amusingly.
“I don’t care what you think they sound like, I just know you won’t get away with this. My Dad will make sure you rot in prison for this.”
“Is that so?”
“Yes it is,” she said with determination.
Kevin reached into his pocket, bringing out a tape recorder. “You really have your father on a pedestal, don’t you? I think it’s time someone let you in on the truth.” With that, he pressed the play button, letting Debbie hear the conversation from earlier at Blue Ridge Lake. When the tape was done, he pushed stop. “So let me ask again, how well do you know your father?”
Debbie couldn’t believe it. Her father murdered Miss Parker. It couldn’t be true. Maybe Kevin used something to dub her father’s voice on the tape, but her father didn’t sound like he was forced against his will.
“What’s the matter, kid? Cat got your tongue?” Kevin asked tauntingly.
“It’s a trick. It has to be,” she said with disbelief. “There’s no way my father would kill Miss Parker.”
“Sorry kid. Evidence doesn’t lie.” With that he walked out the door.
Debbie was still in shock. She stared absently at the wall in front of her. No way, could her father kill Miss Parker. But, Kevin had evidence of her father talking about a dead Miss Parker. If he did kill her, she would never forgive him. Lying back down on the cot, she brought the small pillow under her head and wept for her father and Miss Parker.
Kevin stared at the troubled girl through the small circular window on the door. ‘This day just keeps getting better and better,’ he thought to himself. He had so much fun toying with her. He could only imagine how she feels about her father now. He was broken from his thoughts when his cell phone rang.
“What?”
“Kevin, it’s me Neal.”
“I know who you are idiot. What do you want?” Kevin asked impatiently.
“Sorry. The boss is on the other line wanting to talk to you.”
“Put him through.”
After Kevin and his boss talked, he hung up the phone. Walking briskly down the hall, he gathered a couple of men and headed out the door.
“Where are we going?’ asked Neal.
Kevin buckled his seat belt. “To Mr. Raines house.”
XXXXXX
To Be Continued...
Chapter 12
Miss Parker sat in a chair facing Lyle as Broots called the Blue Cove police station. She had the knife in one hand and the gun in the other, pointed at Lyle. Miss Parker still didn’t know what to think. She had a feeling Lyle was up to no good, but what was it? Lyle looked like the picture of serenity, sitting over there all calm and collective. She would love nothing more than to wipe that smirk off his face.
Lyle tilted his head to the side an asked with amusement, “What’s the matter, sis? You look...troubled.”
Miss Parker sat up straighter. “The only thing troubling in this room is you. Of course, that problem can be taken care of with a bullet.”
Lyle just smiled at her. “Touché, touché.”
After Broots hung up the phone he walked back over to Miss Parker. “Well, what did they say?” she asked.
Broots cleared his throat. He never liked being the bearer of bad news when it came to Miss Parker. “Lyle’s story holds up. He was pulled over last night, or actually the night before, at 9:08pm. He fought with the arresting officer, causing him to stay longer in jail. He was let out today at 2:02 am. Everything seems to check out, Miss Parker.”
“Are you satisfied now?” asked Lyle smugly.
Miss Parker rubbed her forehead, pinching the bridge of her nose. She hated to admit this, but maybe Lyle was telling the truth. There’s always a first for something. She was broken out of her reverie by Broots’ voice. “What do we do now?”
“I don’t know,” she whispered to herself.
Broots could see the uncertainty written across Miss Parker’s face. He leaned back against the counter and hung his head low, letting out a defeated sigh. He was so sure that Lyle held the key to Debbie’s whereabouts. It felt like he was running in circles, making no progress. When he looked back up again he saw Jarod walking into the kitchen, standing behind Lyle. He looked over at Miss Parker who gave Jarod a puzzled look. If Lyle saw Jarod, they could both be in a heap of trouble.
Lyle noticed Broots and Miss Parker staring at something behind him. He didn’t like it. He could feel the hairs on the back of his neck rising. When Lyle brought his hand up to rub the back of his neck, someone grabbed it. “What the hell?” When he turned around he couldn’t believe it. It was Jarod. ‘Great, perfect ending to a perfect evening,’ he thought to himself sarcastically. He looked back over at Miss Parker, expecting her to do something.
Miss Parker bit down on her lip to keep herself from laughing. Quirking an eyebrow up at Lyle she asked, “What’s the matter, Lyle? You seem a bit....troubled.”
“Do something,” he growled out.
Miss Parker shook her head sadly at him. “Sorry, no can do.” She then let her gaze fall upon Jarod. “Did you find out anything?”
Jarod gave Lyle a disgusted look, throwing his hand back down. He sat down in the seat between Miss Parker and Lyle. Setting his laptop on the table, he turned it on and gave it to Miss Parker.
Broots stood behind Miss Parker, leaning down to look at the screen. Just like the phone call earlier, they found police reports and the security tape of Lyle in jail. Broots looked back at Jarod. “If Lyle didn’t do it, then why is he being set up?”
Before Jarod answered, Lyle chimed in. “What are you talking about? Who’s setting me up? And for what?” he demanded. No one answered him. Feeling irritated, he slammed his fist down on the table. “I have a right to know,” he spat out.
Taking the laptop from Miss Parker, Jarod typed in some commands. When he got what he needed, he let Lyle have the laptop. Lyle watched the video of Debbie that was sent to Broots’ email. When he was done watching the video he looked back up. “I can’t believe this. You three come barging into my house, because you thought I set this all up. Do you really think I would dress up like Raines, and forget something foolish as my leather glove? Please, if I was really behind this, which I’m not, I would have made sure to leave no clues.” He paused an added, “No one likes a messy crime.”
Miss Parker leaned forward, resting her elbows on the table. She look at Lyle with such intensity that Lyle shrunk back a little in his chair. “It’s been my experience Lyle, that if it looks like crap, smells like crap, it’s most likely crap.” Leaning back in her chair she asked, “Lyle, I know you know things, so tell me, who put a hit out on me?”
Lyle shook his head. “Here we go again. Time to pull out the conspiracy card when something goes wrong. What makes you think I know anything about that?”
“With me dead, it leaves the path open for other people, or in your case, flesh eating monsters in charge of the Centre.”
Lyle couldn’t help but smile at the little nickname. “Flesh eating monster, that has a nice ring to it. I wonder if I could put that on my business card.” Through his laughter he said, “Flesh eating monster, at your service.”
Jarod was getting annoyed at Lyle. Bolting up from his chair, Jarod grabbed Lyle by his tie, pulling him up. “Listen here you son of bitch! Time is of the essence. It’s time you start sobering up and get serious. Someone has kidnapped Debbie, using her against Broots. The only way for Broots to get Debbie back is to kill Miss Parker. Also, there is someone out there who is trying to put this all on you.” Emphasizing his point, Jarod tugged harder on the tie. “Now, do I have your complete attention?”
Lyle could feel his airway become smaller and smaller. He tried to push Jarod’s hands away, but they were too strong. He tried to answer Jarod, but nothing would come out. Instead, all he could do was shake his head up and down.
“Good.” Jarod threw Lyle back down onto the chair.
Lyle was seething. The only thing running through his mind at the moment was that Jarod would pay for what he just did. Bastard. He loosened his tie, rubbing his neck. “Well, Jarod, since you’re such a genius, what do we do?”
“I say it’s time we pay Mr. Raines a visit.”
XXXXXXXX
Kidnapper's Lair
Kevin walked into the dimly lit room. Walking over to a TV monitor, he saw Debbie in her room crying, curled up in a fetal position on the cot. Satisfied at the sight, he sat down in a chair and grabbed a magazine. This was the part he hated. It was now a waiting game. He looked down at his watch, just another hour or two before the drop off went down.
The magazine didn’t do anything to curb his boredom. Looking back at the monitor, he found a way to pass the time, while having a little fun also. Throwing the magazine down on the table he headed down the hallway towards Debbie’s room.
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Lyle's House
Broots didn’t like the sound of that. Raines always gave him the creeps, more so after that crazy dream he had of him and Miss Parker, while they were in Vegas. “Mr. Wiggles,” he said under his breath, shaking the image out of his head.
“What did you say, Broots?” Miss Parker asked.
“Hmm, oh nothing. Just rambling to myself.” Looking at Jarod he asked, “Are you sure it will be a good idea to go to Raines’ house? His place has to be crawling with sweepers.”
“It’s the only option we have left. If we can’t get anything from Raines, then we’ll have to wait for the kidnapper to call about Debbie, and that could be walking into a lion’s den,” replied Jarod.
Lyle rolled his eyes at Broots. “Suck it up, computer man.” Changing the subject he asked, “Is it alright if I use the restroom. I’ve got blood oozing and drying up on my face?”
“Fine. Jarod, you go with him. Make sure he doesn’t try anything funny,” answered Miss Parker.
“I’m truly hurt, Parker. It’s a sad day when you can’t trust family,” he said, feigning the hurt in his voice, while grinning at her.
“Family? Please,” she scoffed.
When Jarod and Lyle were out of the room, she turned her attention to Broots. She was still angry with him for what he did. Getting up, she walked over to Broots. Pushing him up against the wall, she stood mere inches from him. “Since they’re out of the room it’s time you an I had a little talk.”
Broots didn’t like this. He could see the anger and hurt in her eyes. “Miss Parker, I know what you’re going to say. I know you wanted me to stay put until Jarod found a plan, but I couldn’t wait,” he said rapidly.
She pushed her index finger into Broots’ chest. “Broots, if someone looked in a dictionary, your picture would be right by the word ‘moron’. God, you could have gotten yourself killed tonight. What made you think you could take on Lyle by yourself?”
Miss Parker’s words stung Broots. Feeling ashamed he looked down at his feet. “I’m sorry, but if I had to do it over again I would.”
Miss Parker took a step back, looking at the feeble man before her. Letting out a deep sigh, she put her hand on his shoulder. “Broots, you’re the only father Debbie will ever have. I know your heart is in the right place, but there comes a time when you have to listen to your mind instead of your heart.” She paused an added, “The logical part will keep you alive, not the emotional part.”
Broots looked up at her. “Do you truly believe that, Miss Parker?”
She let her hand slip from Broots’ shoulder, giving him a dumbfounded look. Feeling defensive, she crossed her arms. “Yes, I do.”
He gave her a solemn look. “Then I feel sorry for you.”
Miss Parker was somewhat surprised by Broots’ words. Trying to recover, she put up her ice queen façade. “Don’t pity me. That way of thinking has kept me alive over the years,” she said coldly.
Broots seemed unfazed by her demeanor. “Tell me then, Miss Parker, what have you got to show for it?”
She was speechless. All she could mutter out was, “I...I.”
Broots had to be careful. He knew he was walking on thin ice right now. Saying the wrong thing to her could make her erupt like a volcano. “The only thing you have to show for it is an ulcer and loneliness. I know you think showing emotions is a sign of weakness, but if you don’t let your heart shine you might as well be a zombie walking the earth, because all you’ll be in life is a lifeless soul walking around in a shell of a body.” He paused an added, “Miss Parker, you’re such a strong and vibrant person. I just hate seeing a friend slowly killing herself.”
She turned around and walked over to the back door, staring out the window. She could feel the tears trying to escape from her eyes, but she wouldn’t let them. With her back facing Broots she commented, “Broots, let’s get one thing straight. I’m not your friend, but your boss, got it? Secondly, why would I take advice from someone like you,” she said caustically. Taking another deep breath she turned back around.
Broots knew Miss Parker to well. When people got to close, she had to put up her ice queen shield, so she wouldn’t feel so vulnerable. Even though her words were a little hurtful, he knew she didn’t mean it. “Say what you will, Miss Parker, but I don’t think a boss would go to this much trouble helping a meager employee. This is something a friend would do.” He looked over at the kitchen entranceway to make sure Lyle and Jarod weren’t coming. Seeing they weren’t, he took a couple of steps closer to Miss Parker.
“What you just said a few seconds ago, about the logical part keeping you alive, is that what you’ve been doing when it comes to Jarod?” he asked curiously.
“I’m not discussing my personal life with you of all people,” she replied back. She tried to sound cold, but her voice betrayed her.
“Please, stop pretending, Miss Parker. For once, be the real you,” Broots said pleadingly.
“Easier said than done,” she scoffed.
Broots shook his head at her. “You make it harder than it has to be.”
She couldn’t help but stare at Broots in disbelief. “Broots, when did you become so brazen.”
Broots let out a soft chuckle. “What can I say? Maybe some of your boldness has rubbed off on me.”
She couldn’t help but laugh. “Well, I can’t help it if I’m a bad influence.
When the laughing subsided, Broots got more serious an asked, “Miss Parker, you didn’t answer my question from before?” He looked over his shoulder to make sure it was just him and Miss Parker in the kitchen. Satisfied that they were still alone, he finally asked the question that has been plaguing him all these years. Clearing his throat he asked, “Miss Parker, do you love, Jarod?”
Miss Parker was stunned by the question. Broots was now getting a little to close for comfort. All of a sudden she felt naked, exposed, vulnerable. To top it off it was in front of Broots of all people. Did she have feelings for Jarod? Is that why she never could catch Jarod? However, she knew the answers to those questions. If she wanted to, she knew she could catch Jarod, but she couldn’t, or more likely she wouldn’t, because this damn heart of hers always got in the way.
“Miss Parker?” asked Broots.
Luckily she didn’t have to answer his question when she saw Lyle and Jarod walk in. Grabbing his bag and laptop, Jarod asked, “Everyone ready to go?”
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Kidnapper's Lair
Debbie sat upright on her cot as she heard the door open. ‘Oh no, not him,’ she thought to herself. She quickly wiped the tears away from her face as he closed the door. Trying to take after Miss Parker, she raised her chin up defiantly, trying to show no fear.
Kevin stood by the door. Crossing his arms, he leaned his right side against the door, staring at the blonde headed girl before him. He couldn’t help but smile at the brave face she was putting on. Of course, it was all an act. “So, how do you like your new accommodations, Debbie?”
Debbie was doing all she could to keep herself from crying, but she had to be brave. “Well, it’s not the Hilton, but I guess it will have to do. The food on the other hand is down right awful. You might want to talk to the cook about that,” she replied nonchalantly. A chill went down her spine, as Kevin’s smile only got broader.
He pushed himself off the door, taking a couple of steps closer towards Debbie. “Well, I’ll make sure to tell him that.” He reached around his lower back, bringing out his gun. He got the response he wanted, when Debbie’s eyes got bigger, glistening with unshed tears, but she still didn’t buckle. “You’re probably wondering what I’m doing with this. Don’t worry, it’s not for you.”
Debbie never liked guns. She was scared of them. It always amazed her that something as small as a bullet could snuff out a life just like that, without any warning. Just like it did with Wayne. She could feel the unshed tears burning in her eyes, wanting release, but she couldn’t let them fall. She had to be strong. “Oh, I’m not worried. Only a coward would use a gun.” Debbie noticed the change in Kevin’s eyes. There was so much hatred and madness behind them.
Kevin took a step closer. He would love nothing more than to end this little brat’s life right now; unfortunately he had orders from his boss. “Hasn’t your Daddy ever told you that children should be seen and not heard?” He smiled as her bottom lip trembled. “Oh, don’t cry,” he said with mock concern.
“I’m not crying,” she said with denial. A couple of stray tears made their way down her cheeks.
Kevin was enjoying himself immensely. Kneeling down in front of her, he brought the gun up to her face, letting the muzzle run down her cheeks and jawbone. He laughed to himself as Debbie froze in pure terror. “What’s the matter, Debbie? Not so brave now, are we?”
Taking a deep breath she replied, “Go to hell.”
“Oh, don’t worry. I’m sure I will. Hey, I’ll probably even see Miss Parker and your father while I’m there,” he said teasingly.
“What are you talking about?” she asked, fear evident in her voice now.
Taking the gun away from her face, he stood back up. “See, the only way for your father to get you back is to kill Miss Parker.”
Debbie couldn’t believe what she just heard. No, it can’t be true. Her father couldn’t kill a fly. “You’re lying. My father would never do something like that.”
“Tell me, Debbie, how well do you know your father?”
“Well, I know he’s not a cold blooded killer like some people in this room are,” she said evenly.
“Debbie, I believe those sound like fighting words,” he replied amusingly.
“I don’t care what you think they sound like, I just know you won’t get away with this. My Dad will make sure you rot in prison for this.”
“Is that so?”
“Yes it is,” she said with determination.
Kevin reached into his pocket, bringing out a tape recorder. “You really have your father on a pedestal, don’t you? I think it’s time someone let you in on the truth.” With that, he pressed the play button, letting Debbie hear the conversation from earlier at Blue Ridge Lake. When the tape was done, he pushed stop. “So let me ask again, how well do you know your father?”
Debbie couldn’t believe it. Her father murdered Miss Parker. It couldn’t be true. Maybe Kevin used something to dub her father’s voice on the tape, but her father didn’t sound like he was forced against his will.
“What’s the matter, kid? Cat got your tongue?” Kevin asked tauntingly.
“It’s a trick. It has to be,” she said with disbelief. “There’s no way my father would kill Miss Parker.”
“Sorry kid. Evidence doesn’t lie.” With that he walked out the door.
Debbie was still in shock. She stared absently at the wall in front of her. No way, could her father kill Miss Parker. But, Kevin had evidence of her father talking about a dead Miss Parker. If he did kill her, she would never forgive him. Lying back down on the cot, she brought the small pillow under her head and wept for her father and Miss Parker.
Kevin stared at the troubled girl through the small circular window on the door. ‘This day just keeps getting better and better,’ he thought to himself. He had so much fun toying with her. He could only imagine how she feels about her father now. He was broken from his thoughts when his cell phone rang.
“What?”
“Kevin, it’s me Neal.”
“I know who you are idiot. What do you want?” Kevin asked impatiently.
“Sorry. The boss is on the other line wanting to talk to you.”
“Put him through.”
After Kevin and his boss talked, he hung up the phone. Walking briskly down the hall, he gathered a couple of men and headed out the door.
“Where are we going?’ asked Neal.
Kevin buckled his seat belt. “To Mr. Raines house.”
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To Be Continued...
