Rated PG13 for spookiness, sensuality and violence.
Halloween Challenge
Chapter 1
The party had been going well, except for the shoes. Far too high, Sue had finally given up on them after Jack had caught her twice. The last time, Bobby, having landed the pumpkin ‘quaffle’ stepped back into her, she had fallen hard into Jack and both had toppled into Lucy’s plant. Still being ribbed, she had finally kicked them off. Better barefoot then with a sprained ankle. Feeling Levi’s jump she turned puzzled, and then, gathering it was the door. Sue retreated back down the hallway, But she was not prepared for who stood on the other side.
Full Version: Halloween Challenge - Starbuck
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She had seen him before in passing. His steel eyes on her, she had walked faster the first time. There had been a couple more instances where he had stared, and moved on. But to come to her door? Frowning at the older man, she cringed as his eyes swept her, and took an inadvertent step backwards, into Jack.
The man looked from her to Jack, then back, his face steeling. “Nice party.” He said quietly.
“Thanks. Jack Hudson.” Jack reached forward, taking the man’s hand, but was not offered it in return, his dark eyes still locked on Sue. Irritated, Jack stepped back, placing his arm around her waist protectively. She was tense, her shoulders up. “How can we help you?” The man’s hollow eyes moved over Jack, unblinking and Jack felt the cold chill of a bad memory pass over him. Holding his ground he raised an eyebrow and waited.
“You need to be more careful.” He said evenly to Sue. “Remember, they are watching.” And taking a step back into the hall, he turned and disappeared down the stairs.
“What was that about?” came a startled voice from behind him. Jack looked over his shoulder at Bobby now standing there, his concern apparent.
“I don’t know, but I going to find out.” Jack returned releasing Sue, who stood motionless, and hurried down the hall in the direction the man had gone. But upon reaching the bottom of stairs, the was no sign of him. Exchanging worried looks with Bobby, they turned back. Sue was standing exactly where he had left her. Taking her hands, cold as ice “Sue?” he asked, now concerned. “Hey?” Jack touched her cheek only to have her blink at him as if coming out of a dream. “Do you know him?”
Sue shook her head. “No. I’ve seen him before. I…” her voice faded and her eyes widened… “I’m tired.” And stepping away from Jack and Bobby, she moved back into the apartment.
The man looked from her to Jack, then back, his face steeling. “Nice party.” He said quietly.
“Thanks. Jack Hudson.” Jack reached forward, taking the man’s hand, but was not offered it in return, his dark eyes still locked on Sue. Irritated, Jack stepped back, placing his arm around her waist protectively. She was tense, her shoulders up. “How can we help you?” The man’s hollow eyes moved over Jack, unblinking and Jack felt the cold chill of a bad memory pass over him. Holding his ground he raised an eyebrow and waited.
“You need to be more careful.” He said evenly to Sue. “Remember, they are watching.” And taking a step back into the hall, he turned and disappeared down the stairs.
“What was that about?” came a startled voice from behind him. Jack looked over his shoulder at Bobby now standing there, his concern apparent.
“I don’t know, but I going to find out.” Jack returned releasing Sue, who stood motionless, and hurried down the hall in the direction the man had gone. But upon reaching the bottom of stairs, the was no sign of him. Exchanging worried looks with Bobby, they turned back. Sue was standing exactly where he had left her. Taking her hands, cold as ice “Sue?” he asked, now concerned. “Hey?” Jack touched her cheek only to have her blink at him as if coming out of a dream. “Do you know him?”
Sue shook her head. “No. I’ve seen him before. I…” her voice faded and her eyes widened… “I’m tired.” And stepping away from Jack and Bobby, she moved back into the apartment.
Jack followed her back into the kitchen, thankful when Bobby headed another direction, and taking her hand, led her to her room and shutting the door behind them turned to face her. Clearly upset, she stood in the center of the room, her arms crossed over her chest. Despite the outfit, still Sue. And she wasn’t talking. Moving in front of her, so he would not be shut out he began “What happened? Who is he?” only to have her shake her head at him. She started to turn away and Jack’s hands caught her shoulders. He waited, until her face finally came up to meet his. The eyes were tear-filled and he could feel her shaking. Stunned and now worried from her reaction, he gently pulled her to him, relieved she did not pull away.
“I don’t know him. I keep seeing him. But I don’t know why. I wish I knew what he wanted. I have seen him outside the office. I didn’t know he knew where I lived.” She finally confessed into his shoulder at a whisper. The relief was instant. She had told someone. Up until now, it had been her own torment. The man meeting her eyes, then moving off. “He’s never said a word until tonight.”
Jack peered down at her face, resting on his shoulder and tucked her hair back so that he could see her fully. There were tears, but her eyes were on his, fear and trust apparent. “Ok, when we get in the office, we’ll see what we can find on him. Don’t worry.” Her head came up and her face now inches from his own.
“I… Thank you. I should have told you but it seemed so silly.” She said quietly.
“Its not silly. You’re a beautiful woman. Some men get carried away.” He answered, aware how close she now was to him, the soft scent of her perfume teasing him.
“You think I’m beautiful?”
Her question was genuine and unsure, not a tease, not fishing for a compliment. Sometimes it amazed him how unaware she was of the effect she had on him. The Sandy outfit only made things more complicated. For while striking in it, it was not the clothes, but the woman underneath that shined through, stealing his breath. “Very..” he answered, his eyes falling to her lips. Soft, inviting, and a major step. He tucked her even close. He had thought about this, but now, there was no thinking. Leaning forward subtly he saw her eyes fluttered shut…the kiss was only a fraction of a second … before a knock on the door startled him back.
“Is everything ok?” Lucy called out through the door. Sue and Jack’s quick departure had concerned her. Sue had been so pale, and the look on Jack’s face, unmistakable. The door opened to a rather sheepish pair, and Lucy had to pause, her instincts flashing ahead.
“I’m allright.” Sue stammered, her cheeks now flushed and escaping past Jack and Lucy returned back up the hall towards the kitchen.
Lucy gave Jack a long look, not quite sure what she saw there. His face soft, but his eyes steeled and locked on the direction Sue had just disappeared.
“If that man shows up again, I want to know about it, immediately” He said quietly.
Lucy nodded, a cold chill moving through her and started to turn. Jack’s hand on her forearm stopped her.
“Luce, you be careful too. Promise me.”
“Hey, aren’t I always?” she shrugged light heartedly. But his reaction was not amusement, and she nodded somberly. “I promise. We should get back.” She finally added.
“Go on. I’ll be there in a moment.” Jack watched her go and turn the corner before checking both Sue’s and Lucy’s windows. Feeling as if he were being watched he looked down to Levi’s face, a patted the dog affectionately, kneeling down beside him. “Ok buddy. I’m counting on you to keep an eye on them.” Hearing Levi’s soft bark, he smiled, wishing it were that simple.
“I don’t know him. I keep seeing him. But I don’t know why. I wish I knew what he wanted. I have seen him outside the office. I didn’t know he knew where I lived.” She finally confessed into his shoulder at a whisper. The relief was instant. She had told someone. Up until now, it had been her own torment. The man meeting her eyes, then moving off. “He’s never said a word until tonight.”
Jack peered down at her face, resting on his shoulder and tucked her hair back so that he could see her fully. There were tears, but her eyes were on his, fear and trust apparent. “Ok, when we get in the office, we’ll see what we can find on him. Don’t worry.” Her head came up and her face now inches from his own.
“I… Thank you. I should have told you but it seemed so silly.” She said quietly.
“Its not silly. You’re a beautiful woman. Some men get carried away.” He answered, aware how close she now was to him, the soft scent of her perfume teasing him.
“You think I’m beautiful?”
Her question was genuine and unsure, not a tease, not fishing for a compliment. Sometimes it amazed him how unaware she was of the effect she had on him. The Sandy outfit only made things more complicated. For while striking in it, it was not the clothes, but the woman underneath that shined through, stealing his breath. “Very..” he answered, his eyes falling to her lips. Soft, inviting, and a major step. He tucked her even close. He had thought about this, but now, there was no thinking. Leaning forward subtly he saw her eyes fluttered shut…the kiss was only a fraction of a second … before a knock on the door startled him back.
“Is everything ok?” Lucy called out through the door. Sue and Jack’s quick departure had concerned her. Sue had been so pale, and the look on Jack’s face, unmistakable. The door opened to a rather sheepish pair, and Lucy had to pause, her instincts flashing ahead.
“I’m allright.” Sue stammered, her cheeks now flushed and escaping past Jack and Lucy returned back up the hall towards the kitchen.
Lucy gave Jack a long look, not quite sure what she saw there. His face soft, but his eyes steeled and locked on the direction Sue had just disappeared.
“If that man shows up again, I want to know about it, immediately” He said quietly.
Lucy nodded, a cold chill moving through her and started to turn. Jack’s hand on her forearm stopped her.
“Luce, you be careful too. Promise me.”
“Hey, aren’t I always?” she shrugged light heartedly. But his reaction was not amusement, and she nodded somberly. “I promise. We should get back.” She finally added.
“Go on. I’ll be there in a moment.” Jack watched her go and turn the corner before checking both Sue’s and Lucy’s windows. Feeling as if he were being watched he looked down to Levi’s face, a patted the dog affectionately, kneeling down beside him. “Ok buddy. I’m counting on you to keep an eye on them.” Hearing Levi’s soft bark, he smiled, wishing it were that simple.
Chapter 2
Staring at the case information that White Collar had turned over, Sue tried to focus, but it was difficult, the case too close to home. Clearly a connection between Reinde Corporation, a cancer research drug company and the Neo-Nazi group, based on phone logs and meeting dates, it was not clear how the money was being sourced directly. Or how much money was now involved. The tips had been disturbing. As if they were ramping up operations for some unknown reason. Additionally, several local murders over the last month were being potentially linked, but with no hard evidence, more information was needed.
“So the first victim then… was walking her service dog?” Bobby asked, changing the page.
“Evidently it was early morning, no one saw anything. It was her parents who reported her missing. But she evidently had a case of Down Syndrome.” Jack added, pointing at the picture of the first victim on the board. “Sharon Stevens was killed three weeks ago. She disappeared from the parking lot of a local shopping mall. She was deaf. Her hearing dog was found a short time later running loose.” Jack glanced at Sue, the continued. “Tamara Evans worked as a hairstylist. She was also an epileptic. She had a small terrier who assisted her. Her body was found last week. And Lynn Donaldson was the most recent victim. Legally blind, she left work to walk an errand. Her body was found in a shallow grave earlier this week. We still have no leads on her dog.”
“Different guns were used in each of the three crimes. What White Collar thinks is that women with service dogs were victimized because they are easy to spot. What we do know is that after each murder, Reide Corporation’s internal computer systems went offline suspiciously for three hours. White Collar had placed a source on the inside to see if there was a money transfer going on, what they found was a little more interesting. While it appears the system was going through a backup process, they were running an internal program in the background.” Tara took a deep breath and looked to Stanley.
“Its not a code we have been able to decipher exactly.” Stanley began. “But what we do know, it there are three contracts for ‘Purchases’ of supplies that correspond to the dates of the murders. Unfortunately, they are all separate, and we cant find the link. However, There are six more ‘Purchase Orders’ on the roster.”
“So we are thinking this Neo-Nazi group is behind these murders?” D’s arms crossed his chest, and he stole a look in Sue’s direction.
“The question is, why would a German pharmaceutical corporation fund an organization that is committing a series of murders.
“D, Tara… Guenther Henrick is the head of Reide. There has been some odd filings for new drugs over the last month. See what you can find out from him. Maybe there is some connection there. Stanley… I want everything you can get on these new cancer agents they are working on. Lucy.. see what you can dig up on Guenther, along with their top management. I am also interested in their research department heads. Anything out of the ordinary. We need to find out where the group is now. Lets contact our informants on the street. Whatever they are up to, we need to get ahead of them.” Jack finished, his eyes moving to Sue. She had remained quiet during both the briefing and discussion. He understood now why Garrett had asked him so many questions the other night. He was testing the teams protective nature for her. And they were on edge. His course of action already determined from the minute he saw the file, she was not going to be out of his sight until this was over. Of course, convincing her of that, would be another matter.
Staring at the case information that White Collar had turned over, Sue tried to focus, but it was difficult, the case too close to home. Clearly a connection between Reinde Corporation, a cancer research drug company and the Neo-Nazi group, based on phone logs and meeting dates, it was not clear how the money was being sourced directly. Or how much money was now involved. The tips had been disturbing. As if they were ramping up operations for some unknown reason. Additionally, several local murders over the last month were being potentially linked, but with no hard evidence, more information was needed.
“So the first victim then… was walking her service dog?” Bobby asked, changing the page.
“Evidently it was early morning, no one saw anything. It was her parents who reported her missing. But she evidently had a case of Down Syndrome.” Jack added, pointing at the picture of the first victim on the board. “Sharon Stevens was killed three weeks ago. She disappeared from the parking lot of a local shopping mall. She was deaf. Her hearing dog was found a short time later running loose.” Jack glanced at Sue, the continued. “Tamara Evans worked as a hairstylist. She was also an epileptic. She had a small terrier who assisted her. Her body was found last week. And Lynn Donaldson was the most recent victim. Legally blind, she left work to walk an errand. Her body was found in a shallow grave earlier this week. We still have no leads on her dog.”
“Different guns were used in each of the three crimes. What White Collar thinks is that women with service dogs were victimized because they are easy to spot. What we do know is that after each murder, Reide Corporation’s internal computer systems went offline suspiciously for three hours. White Collar had placed a source on the inside to see if there was a money transfer going on, what they found was a little more interesting. While it appears the system was going through a backup process, they were running an internal program in the background.” Tara took a deep breath and looked to Stanley.
“Its not a code we have been able to decipher exactly.” Stanley began. “But what we do know, it there are three contracts for ‘Purchases’ of supplies that correspond to the dates of the murders. Unfortunately, they are all separate, and we cant find the link. However, There are six more ‘Purchase Orders’ on the roster.”
“So we are thinking this Neo-Nazi group is behind these murders?” D’s arms crossed his chest, and he stole a look in Sue’s direction.
“The question is, why would a German pharmaceutical corporation fund an organization that is committing a series of murders.
“D, Tara… Guenther Henrick is the head of Reide. There has been some odd filings for new drugs over the last month. See what you can find out from him. Maybe there is some connection there. Stanley… I want everything you can get on these new cancer agents they are working on. Lucy.. see what you can dig up on Guenther, along with their top management. I am also interested in their research department heads. Anything out of the ordinary. We need to find out where the group is now. Lets contact our informants on the street. Whatever they are up to, we need to get ahead of them.” Jack finished, his eyes moving to Sue. She had remained quiet during both the briefing and discussion. He understood now why Garrett had asked him so many questions the other night. He was testing the teams protective nature for her. And they were on edge. His course of action already determined from the minute he saw the file, she was not going to be out of his sight until this was over. Of course, convincing her of that, would be another matter.
Chapter 3
Sue stared at the piece of paper in Jack’s hand, the man’s face peering back at her. There was no mistaking the eyes. It was him, the same face that had haunted her for over a week now. What amazed her was how well Jack had been able to capture each detail for the composite sketch artist. His ability to memorize and recollect details astounding her each time. She shivered and felt Jack’s arm move around her shoulders. “That’s him.”
“Ok, I will pass this around, see what we come up with. So far, there are no matches in the database.” Jack pursed his lips, then checked the conference room door, still closed. “Sue, until this is over, I want you to stick close.” He saw her puzzled expression, then a frown, so he held up his hand. “Look, I know you think you can handle anything, but the man knows where you live. And on top of that, this case…. Lets just say I will sleep better if you would stick close. For me… please?”
It was the last of his plea that hit home. “Sure.” She shifted.
He studied her face for a moment…”About the party, what happened…” he saw her face pale slightly. “I’m not sorry.” He whispered. It was the hint of a smile, but he caught it. “Except, that we were interrupted.” He continued, and held his breath.
“Me too.” She said quietly.
His arm still around her shoulder, Jack faced her fully, dropping his hand to her cheek and stroking it lightly. He quickly brushed his lips over hers, his eyes open, testing. Then patiently warmed her lips until they softened and parted.
Leaning into him, Sue chased away any thoughts but this moment. Not undercover, not a ruse, her heart pounded hard and he gathered her closer. His lips soft and persuasive, she found her own hands moving up to clutch his jacket, then travel around his neck. Now against him, her sense of reason faded in whispers.
Jack only eased reluctantly. His eyes skimmed her face, pleased with what he saw there. Lost for words, he toyed with her hair, marveling in the feel in his hands, forcing his senses back to their original levels one by one. “How about dinner tonight?” he whispered finally, then smiled when she startled, his kiss having affected her equally.
“Sorry.” She blinked and made a face, blushing. “I, what about Lucy. He knows where we live.”
“Right, dinner at your place, the three of us.” He said with a grin to her reaction. “And later, when things quiet down… the two of us?”
Sue nodded silently. That he would ask… made her heart glow. That he would understand… made it quiver. She had hoped, for a long time he would look her way. And after their undercover kiss, had been saddened he had chosen not to, however she had accepted it. Choosing to resume their relationship as if nothing had ever happened. Passing it off to the rest of the team. This was different, and only between them. With no circumstances, no complications, this was their choice. “Jack? Are you sure about this?” She wanted to give him an out.
He sighed softly, lightly tracing her cheek with his fingers, then his knuckles. “If I could have found the right time before now, I wouldn’t have waited this long. I’m foolish for not bringing us closer sooner.”
Sue cocked her head at his admission, its very nature touching her. Then breaking into a grin, she beamed back at him. “I guess you’ll have to make it up to me.”
Jack’s jaw slackened, then dropped, but his eyes twinkled back at her. “Don’t worry, I have something in mind.” Seeing her expression he chuckled softly, and settling for one last quick kiss, released her, and gathered up their files. So much time wasted, and so much time ahead. One thing was certain, his foot on the path he had so long wanted to take, he was ready to enjoy the journey.
Sue stared at the piece of paper in Jack’s hand, the man’s face peering back at her. There was no mistaking the eyes. It was him, the same face that had haunted her for over a week now. What amazed her was how well Jack had been able to capture each detail for the composite sketch artist. His ability to memorize and recollect details astounding her each time. She shivered and felt Jack’s arm move around her shoulders. “That’s him.”
“Ok, I will pass this around, see what we come up with. So far, there are no matches in the database.” Jack pursed his lips, then checked the conference room door, still closed. “Sue, until this is over, I want you to stick close.” He saw her puzzled expression, then a frown, so he held up his hand. “Look, I know you think you can handle anything, but the man knows where you live. And on top of that, this case…. Lets just say I will sleep better if you would stick close. For me… please?”
It was the last of his plea that hit home. “Sure.” She shifted.
He studied her face for a moment…”About the party, what happened…” he saw her face pale slightly. “I’m not sorry.” He whispered. It was the hint of a smile, but he caught it. “Except, that we were interrupted.” He continued, and held his breath.
“Me too.” She said quietly.
His arm still around her shoulder, Jack faced her fully, dropping his hand to her cheek and stroking it lightly. He quickly brushed his lips over hers, his eyes open, testing. Then patiently warmed her lips until they softened and parted.
Leaning into him, Sue chased away any thoughts but this moment. Not undercover, not a ruse, her heart pounded hard and he gathered her closer. His lips soft and persuasive, she found her own hands moving up to clutch his jacket, then travel around his neck. Now against him, her sense of reason faded in whispers.
Jack only eased reluctantly. His eyes skimmed her face, pleased with what he saw there. Lost for words, he toyed with her hair, marveling in the feel in his hands, forcing his senses back to their original levels one by one. “How about dinner tonight?” he whispered finally, then smiled when she startled, his kiss having affected her equally.
“Sorry.” She blinked and made a face, blushing. “I, what about Lucy. He knows where we live.”
“Right, dinner at your place, the three of us.” He said with a grin to her reaction. “And later, when things quiet down… the two of us?”
Sue nodded silently. That he would ask… made her heart glow. That he would understand… made it quiver. She had hoped, for a long time he would look her way. And after their undercover kiss, had been saddened he had chosen not to, however she had accepted it. Choosing to resume their relationship as if nothing had ever happened. Passing it off to the rest of the team. This was different, and only between them. With no circumstances, no complications, this was their choice. “Jack? Are you sure about this?” She wanted to give him an out.
He sighed softly, lightly tracing her cheek with his fingers, then his knuckles. “If I could have found the right time before now, I wouldn’t have waited this long. I’m foolish for not bringing us closer sooner.”
Sue cocked her head at his admission, its very nature touching her. Then breaking into a grin, she beamed back at him. “I guess you’ll have to make it up to me.”
Jack’s jaw slackened, then dropped, but his eyes twinkled back at her. “Don’t worry, I have something in mind.” Seeing her expression he chuckled softly, and settling for one last quick kiss, released her, and gathered up their files. So much time wasted, and so much time ahead. One thing was certain, his foot on the path he had so long wanted to take, he was ready to enjoy the journey.
Chapter 4
In the end it had been Lucy who had insisted Jack spend the night. Between the case, and the fact some man knew where they lived, she had had enough. Sitting up late, they had chatted, until finally, she was no longer able to think of excuses to stay up. Still, breaking with tradition, she left her door open, as did Sue, just in case. It was odd then, when waking she glanced first at her clock, then her door, only to find it shut tight. Climbing out of bed, she checked her window, then opened the door carefully, peering into the hall. All was quiet, and now Sue’s door was also closed. Perhaps Jack had taken the precaution, although, he had agreed, leaving them open was a good idea. Heading towards the living room, she peered around the corner. Jack, asleep on the couch, and nothing out of the ordinary. She felt a cold chill and turned back. Stopping in front of Sue’s door she paused, then turned the knob slowly, so as not to wake Levi. There he was, curled up at the end of Sue’s bed. His head popped up, and cocked as he regarded her. Smiling to herself, Lucy looked towards the head of the bed, but Sue was not there. Stepping into the room, she did a double take, then searched both the closet and under the bed. Curious, Levi jumped down, joining her. “Where’s Sue?” she asked, trying not to panic.
“Luce?” A sleepy Jack asked from the door. “A mouse?”
“Sue’s gone.” She shot back, getting to her feet, now heading systematically through the apartment. There was no sign of her. Reaching the hall, she met Jack, already on his cell.
“Her coat is gone. No note.” He said evenly, trying to sort through the evidence. No clues, no sign of forced entry. And she had not made a sound. Reaching Bobby he explained the situation, quickly setting the rest of the team in motion.
In the end it had been Lucy who had insisted Jack spend the night. Between the case, and the fact some man knew where they lived, she had had enough. Sitting up late, they had chatted, until finally, she was no longer able to think of excuses to stay up. Still, breaking with tradition, she left her door open, as did Sue, just in case. It was odd then, when waking she glanced first at her clock, then her door, only to find it shut tight. Climbing out of bed, she checked her window, then opened the door carefully, peering into the hall. All was quiet, and now Sue’s door was also closed. Perhaps Jack had taken the precaution, although, he had agreed, leaving them open was a good idea. Heading towards the living room, she peered around the corner. Jack, asleep on the couch, and nothing out of the ordinary. She felt a cold chill and turned back. Stopping in front of Sue’s door she paused, then turned the knob slowly, so as not to wake Levi. There he was, curled up at the end of Sue’s bed. His head popped up, and cocked as he regarded her. Smiling to herself, Lucy looked towards the head of the bed, but Sue was not there. Stepping into the room, she did a double take, then searched both the closet and under the bed. Curious, Levi jumped down, joining her. “Where’s Sue?” she asked, trying not to panic.
“Luce?” A sleepy Jack asked from the door. “A mouse?”
“Sue’s gone.” She shot back, getting to her feet, now heading systematically through the apartment. There was no sign of her. Reaching the hall, she met Jack, already on his cell.
“Her coat is gone. No note.” He said evenly, trying to sort through the evidence. No clues, no sign of forced entry. And she had not made a sound. Reaching Bobby he explained the situation, quickly setting the rest of the team in motion.
Waking as if from a dream Sue stared around her, the place completely unfamiliar. Her last memory had been resting in her bed, Jack’s tender kiss goodnight. He had actually checked on her once, and sleep had finally come. The woods all around, she stood in a small clearing, a light fog claiming the ground, the crisp chill against her face, her only light from the near full moon. How she got here… reaching for her pocket, she knew before she reached inside, her blackberry was not there, but her keys were. Peeking down at her attire, her coat, her boots, and underneath, her pajamas. Sue shivered, pulling the coat closer. Glancing around, she was completely alone. Starting forward, she halted, not sure which direction to take. Around her, the woods seemed to close in. Huddling back within herself, she tried to remember how she got here. Someone had woken her, and given her directions. She had taken a cab. His instructions had been specific. Turning a full circle, she spotted something by the edge of the trees. Stepping forward she approached and slowed, her nerves prickling, and stopped as her view became clear. Backing first one step, then two, then to the other side. She was shaking now, her breath in short wispy gasps. Whoever had killed the woman, whoever had done this, could have returned, or could have been the one to bring her here. But she needed to find her way back. Taking a mental picture, she searched her mind, frantically, and, finding no immediate answer, struck out, the way out now more familiar.
It had taken a little convincing on her part to get the gas station attendant to make the call. Thinking she was playing a practical joke, and her lacking any ID, she had just begged, finally bursting into tears. Accepting Jack’s number, he had dialed reluctantly, his eyes had widened, and finally hung up.
“He’ll be here shortly. I told him you were allright. He seemed pretty worried.”
Sitting behind the counter at the lone chair, she tried to stop her trembling, but it wouldn’t stop. The vivid memory of what she had seen, seared in her brain. It didn’t help the attendant kept staring at her. Minutes ticked by and she wondered where Jack was. Worry crept in further and she moved her hands underneath her to stop their shaking. Close to getting up and walking out, she finally saw his car pull in. It did not matter what had taken so long, or the strangeness of the situation, or even that Bobby was watching. Terror holding her hostage, she crossed the distance, burying her head in his shoulder. “Please don’t let go.” She whispered.
Bobby exchanged glances with Jack, then watched his friend’s eyes close for a moment, relief apparent. Looking around the wooded area, there was not much here. Seeing Jack now carrying Sue now in his arms he opened the door for him to climb in and sit in the backseat. That she was traumatized was obvious. Why and what had happened to her… Bobby knelt by the opened car door, watching the two, Jack stroking her hair, keeping her nestled close in his lap, Sue’s now violent trembling offering her no peace. Hearing a second car, he saw Myles and D start to climb out. “I’ll go tell them she’s safe.”
“No.” Sue said quietly.
Jack looked down, Sue’s face now peering out from where she sat. Having seen Bobby’s comments, she swallowed hard, and sat up a bit, not releasing her white-knuckled hold on his arm. “What happened?” he pressed gently, his own fear rising.
“I need to show you.” Sue straightened, and seeing his face, added “I’m not hurt… it’s just, you’ll understand.” Climbing out carefully she stayed pressed close to Jack, grateful he returned the hold, his arm tightly around her waist. Losing her way only once, the woods dark she found the clearing and stopped, her eyes fixed. “Over there.”
Her shaking never ceasing, he wondered if she was in fact in a state of shock. Jack unzipped his coat, pulling her close within the warmth and waited. It didn’t take long. Bobby’s long gait bringing him back fast. “Well?”
“Dunno who she is, but…” Bobby paused, his eyes drifting to Sue, then back. “Long blond hair… kinda looks like Sue. Both she and her service dog are dead. Its been a while.” His voice apologetic, he understood now, at least in part. Almost as if she had seen herself, it was enough to send anyone over the edge.
It had taken a little convincing on her part to get the gas station attendant to make the call. Thinking she was playing a practical joke, and her lacking any ID, she had just begged, finally bursting into tears. Accepting Jack’s number, he had dialed reluctantly, his eyes had widened, and finally hung up.
“He’ll be here shortly. I told him you were allright. He seemed pretty worried.”
Sitting behind the counter at the lone chair, she tried to stop her trembling, but it wouldn’t stop. The vivid memory of what she had seen, seared in her brain. It didn’t help the attendant kept staring at her. Minutes ticked by and she wondered where Jack was. Worry crept in further and she moved her hands underneath her to stop their shaking. Close to getting up and walking out, she finally saw his car pull in. It did not matter what had taken so long, or the strangeness of the situation, or even that Bobby was watching. Terror holding her hostage, she crossed the distance, burying her head in his shoulder. “Please don’t let go.” She whispered.
Bobby exchanged glances with Jack, then watched his friend’s eyes close for a moment, relief apparent. Looking around the wooded area, there was not much here. Seeing Jack now carrying Sue now in his arms he opened the door for him to climb in and sit in the backseat. That she was traumatized was obvious. Why and what had happened to her… Bobby knelt by the opened car door, watching the two, Jack stroking her hair, keeping her nestled close in his lap, Sue’s now violent trembling offering her no peace. Hearing a second car, he saw Myles and D start to climb out. “I’ll go tell them she’s safe.”
“No.” Sue said quietly.
Jack looked down, Sue’s face now peering out from where she sat. Having seen Bobby’s comments, she swallowed hard, and sat up a bit, not releasing her white-knuckled hold on his arm. “What happened?” he pressed gently, his own fear rising.
“I need to show you.” Sue straightened, and seeing his face, added “I’m not hurt… it’s just, you’ll understand.” Climbing out carefully she stayed pressed close to Jack, grateful he returned the hold, his arm tightly around her waist. Losing her way only once, the woods dark she found the clearing and stopped, her eyes fixed. “Over there.”
Her shaking never ceasing, he wondered if she was in fact in a state of shock. Jack unzipped his coat, pulling her close within the warmth and waited. It didn’t take long. Bobby’s long gait bringing him back fast. “Well?”
“Dunno who she is, but…” Bobby paused, his eyes drifting to Sue, then back. “Long blond hair… kinda looks like Sue. Both she and her service dog are dead. Its been a while.” His voice apologetic, he understood now, at least in part. Almost as if she had seen herself, it was enough to send anyone over the edge.
Chapter 5
Sue stared at the warm cup of tea Jack had made for her. Morning had come and gone, and the team was still working overtime. Information from CSI had finally given them both a name and a background. Sarah Annis, age 32 and deaf. She and her service dog had been reported missing, however, after the initial search, little had been done. What was odd, when she had left she had taken her blackberry, her keys, and a small bag. Which was why the police had chalked it up as a person who chose to disappear, not a real missing person’s case. Still a puzzle, how Sue had found her. The cab driver remembered her well, as her directions had been so specific. And he had worried about dropping her off in the remote area. That and the fact they had driven so far, well into rural Maryland. She had tried to remember him, but the whole thing was like some vague dream. Feeling Jack’s hand on her shoulder, she glanced up as he knelt down next to her chair.
Jack skimmed her face quickly. If she was not in shock last night, she had been close. Staying within the circle of his arms, she had not budged, finally falling asleep on the way back to Myles’ house. It had been the closest, and Lucy had met them there. Carrying her in, Jack had sat with her on the couch, letting everyone else work the phones and focusing instead on setting up the additional case information. But even after a short break, her nerves were obviously still rattled. Not that he could blame her. One look at the crime scene pictures, and he had not been the same either. She was better here than anywhere else, the thought of leaving her alone did not sit well right now, no matter how safe the house. “You’re still being quiet.”
“Am I? I’m sorry.” She blinked. “What do we do next?”
She was changing the subject, but he didn’t mind, her thoughts clear. “We are taking a trip out to her house, see what we can find. You up to it?” he asked carefully.
Sue nodded, well ready for the diversion. And perhaps, a way to separate herself from the victim, remind herself that it wasn’t her. However, upon reaching Sarah’s home, her resolve wavered. Sticking close to Jack as he worked through each room the place was cheery, comfortable, and very much home-like. Clean and well tended, Sue walked over to the mantle to examine the slew of pictures of family and friends, people who would miss the perky blond, whose lives would ache over the next few days as news spread. Each picture told a story, parties, friends, Christmas, and…. It was as if the air had been pulled from her lungs. Sue tried to breathe but couldn’t. “Jack” she whispered.
Jack looked up from his conversation with Bobby just in time to see her collapse, her head striking the side of the fireplace in her descent. Rushing to her side, his heart in his throat he touched her cheek “water, or a cloth.” He stammered, grateful when Myles pressed on into his hand. Laying it on her forehead, he stroked her face softly, then ran his hand back to the spot her head had hit, only to feel the welt growing.
“Jack…”
It was the sound of Bobby’s voice, out of character, that snapped up his attention. Meeting his eyes he took the picture Bobby now offered him, and stared down at Sarah. Bright eyed, graduation day, her hat lopsided on her head. A woman on one side, a man on the other, Steel eyes stared back at him, the large smile graced his face. A face quite different from the last time they had seen him when it had been etched in pain, at the door to Sue’s apartment…. At the Halloween Party.
Sue stared at the warm cup of tea Jack had made for her. Morning had come and gone, and the team was still working overtime. Information from CSI had finally given them both a name and a background. Sarah Annis, age 32 and deaf. She and her service dog had been reported missing, however, after the initial search, little had been done. What was odd, when she had left she had taken her blackberry, her keys, and a small bag. Which was why the police had chalked it up as a person who chose to disappear, not a real missing person’s case. Still a puzzle, how Sue had found her. The cab driver remembered her well, as her directions had been so specific. And he had worried about dropping her off in the remote area. That and the fact they had driven so far, well into rural Maryland. She had tried to remember him, but the whole thing was like some vague dream. Feeling Jack’s hand on her shoulder, she glanced up as he knelt down next to her chair.
Jack skimmed her face quickly. If she was not in shock last night, she had been close. Staying within the circle of his arms, she had not budged, finally falling asleep on the way back to Myles’ house. It had been the closest, and Lucy had met them there. Carrying her in, Jack had sat with her on the couch, letting everyone else work the phones and focusing instead on setting up the additional case information. But even after a short break, her nerves were obviously still rattled. Not that he could blame her. One look at the crime scene pictures, and he had not been the same either. She was better here than anywhere else, the thought of leaving her alone did not sit well right now, no matter how safe the house. “You’re still being quiet.”
“Am I? I’m sorry.” She blinked. “What do we do next?”
She was changing the subject, but he didn’t mind, her thoughts clear. “We are taking a trip out to her house, see what we can find. You up to it?” he asked carefully.
Sue nodded, well ready for the diversion. And perhaps, a way to separate herself from the victim, remind herself that it wasn’t her. However, upon reaching Sarah’s home, her resolve wavered. Sticking close to Jack as he worked through each room the place was cheery, comfortable, and very much home-like. Clean and well tended, Sue walked over to the mantle to examine the slew of pictures of family and friends, people who would miss the perky blond, whose lives would ache over the next few days as news spread. Each picture told a story, parties, friends, Christmas, and…. It was as if the air had been pulled from her lungs. Sue tried to breathe but couldn’t. “Jack” she whispered.
Jack looked up from his conversation with Bobby just in time to see her collapse, her head striking the side of the fireplace in her descent. Rushing to her side, his heart in his throat he touched her cheek “water, or a cloth.” He stammered, grateful when Myles pressed on into his hand. Laying it on her forehead, he stroked her face softly, then ran his hand back to the spot her head had hit, only to feel the welt growing.
“Jack…”
It was the sound of Bobby’s voice, out of character, that snapped up his attention. Meeting his eyes he took the picture Bobby now offered him, and stared down at Sarah. Bright eyed, graduation day, her hat lopsided on her head. A woman on one side, a man on the other, Steel eyes stared back at him, the large smile graced his face. A face quite different from the last time they had seen him when it had been etched in pain, at the door to Sue’s apartment…. At the Halloween Party.
Chapter 6
She knew some time had passed, although how, she was not sure. Still, she was safe and cared for, somehow she knew that. Opening her eyes painfully slow, her head throbbing she looked up into Jack’s worried ones. It took a moment to realize she was once again cradled in his arms. Raising a hand to her head she moaned softly as he seemed to get fuzzy, then came back into focus. “We need to stop doing this.”
“I assume you are not talking about ending up in my arms.” Jack forced a smile, his raw concern threatening his own calm appearance. Running his hand through her hair he looked up as Bobby arrived.
“Hey bright eyes, nice of you to join us.” Bobby paused as Sue struggled to sit with Jack’s assistance. Still in front of the fireplace where she had fell, scaring both of them, he wondered how much more stress she, or Jack for that matter could handle. “He is her father. Tara is checking on his address. So far, nothing. Evidently she is not from this area so she is tapping into the nationwide database. Also, she wanted me to pass this on, Sarah’s autopsy revealed some unusual levels of an unknown substance in her system. They are going back now on the other victims to test for the same.”
Placing her hand on Jack’s shoulder to get his attention Sue signed ‘Up’. With their assistance she managed to regain her feet, only to sway slightly her head hurting far more than she would admit.
“We better get you to a hospital.” Seeing her chin come up his eyes flashed her a warning. “Don’t argue. This is the second time in twenty-four hours you’ve had a shock.” Jack studied her still pale face, the slight furl in her brow. Her head hurt and her eyes were not focusing. Taking her by the waist he guided her down the hall. His mind already turning ahead to the case, but no connection jumping to light. Whatever was going on, the sooner they found Mr. Annis, the better they would be.
She knew some time had passed, although how, she was not sure. Still, she was safe and cared for, somehow she knew that. Opening her eyes painfully slow, her head throbbing she looked up into Jack’s worried ones. It took a moment to realize she was once again cradled in his arms. Raising a hand to her head she moaned softly as he seemed to get fuzzy, then came back into focus. “We need to stop doing this.”
“I assume you are not talking about ending up in my arms.” Jack forced a smile, his raw concern threatening his own calm appearance. Running his hand through her hair he looked up as Bobby arrived.
“Hey bright eyes, nice of you to join us.” Bobby paused as Sue struggled to sit with Jack’s assistance. Still in front of the fireplace where she had fell, scaring both of them, he wondered how much more stress she, or Jack for that matter could handle. “He is her father. Tara is checking on his address. So far, nothing. Evidently she is not from this area so she is tapping into the nationwide database. Also, she wanted me to pass this on, Sarah’s autopsy revealed some unusual levels of an unknown substance in her system. They are going back now on the other victims to test for the same.”
Placing her hand on Jack’s shoulder to get his attention Sue signed ‘Up’. With their assistance she managed to regain her feet, only to sway slightly her head hurting far more than she would admit.
“We better get you to a hospital.” Seeing her chin come up his eyes flashed her a warning. “Don’t argue. This is the second time in twenty-four hours you’ve had a shock.” Jack studied her still pale face, the slight furl in her brow. Her head hurt and her eyes were not focusing. Taking her by the waist he guided her down the hall. His mind already turning ahead to the case, but no connection jumping to light. Whatever was going on, the sooner they found Mr. Annis, the better they would be.
“See, and now I feel better.” Jack said, placing his hand lightly on Sue’s forehead.
“You weren’t the one who hit your head.” She said quietly.
“If you want I can go back and get the doctor.” Jack started towards the door only to feel her tug on his arm. Grinning he turned back to face her. Her tongue in her cheek, she was smiling back, the first one since they had subjected her to a variety of tests, then insisted she spend the night. Her pale complexion made even more so by the fluorescent hospital lights, he reconsidered leaving even for the two hours.
“Go on. I’ll be fine here.” She said, reading his mind.
Bending down for one last kiss, he lightly stroked her cheek. Her soft lips under his he leaned closer. He could feel her hand on his shoulder. He had intended on leaving, but found himself sitting on the bed, drawing her into his arms. Tenderly offering and receiving he caressed her back softly, coaxing her even closer and felt her shiver against him. Gently exploring her lips he checked himself, and looked into her darkened eyes. “Maybe I should stay.” He whispered, toying with her hair.
“Maybe you better go.” She grinned back playfully.
Taking one last ragged breath, Jack stood. Giving her one last look from the doorway he headed up the hall, trying to remember the last time two hours seemed so long.
“You weren’t the one who hit your head.” She said quietly.
“If you want I can go back and get the doctor.” Jack started towards the door only to feel her tug on his arm. Grinning he turned back to face her. Her tongue in her cheek, she was smiling back, the first one since they had subjected her to a variety of tests, then insisted she spend the night. Her pale complexion made even more so by the fluorescent hospital lights, he reconsidered leaving even for the two hours.
“Go on. I’ll be fine here.” She said, reading his mind.
Bending down for one last kiss, he lightly stroked her cheek. Her soft lips under his he leaned closer. He could feel her hand on his shoulder. He had intended on leaving, but found himself sitting on the bed, drawing her into his arms. Tenderly offering and receiving he caressed her back softly, coaxing her even closer and felt her shiver against him. Gently exploring her lips he checked himself, and looked into her darkened eyes. “Maybe I should stay.” He whispered, toying with her hair.
“Maybe you better go.” She grinned back playfully.
Taking one last ragged breath, Jack stood. Giving her one last look from the doorway he headed up the hall, trying to remember the last time two hours seemed so long.
Chapter 7
She had barely rolled over when she could feel someone watching her. Turning back to where Jack had stood moments before, she startled. “Mr. Annis?”
“You know who I am?” he asked quietly.
Sue nodded, thinking he looked even more tired than the last time she had seen him. “We found your daughter.” She saw him give a slow shiver, his eyes light with tears. “What happened to her, do you know?” Seeing him nod slowly, she sat up more, but he stood in the doorway, unmoving. “Can you tell me?”
“I’ll show you.” He answered.
“I… Sue looked around. Jack would not be back for a couple hours and Bobby had not yet arrived. “Can we wait? I am expecting someone.” He shook his head and started to turn. “No wait, let me get my things.” Grabbing her clothes, Sue dashed into the bathroom and got dressed quickly. Returning she was relieved Engle had not moved, standing where she had left him. Scribbling a quick note to Jack and Bobby she faced him, again, taken back by his sad expression. “Where to?”
****
“What do you mean she’s gone?” Bobby demanded, staring at the nurse in front of him. He had been half an hour behind Jack, and a nurse was supposed to be stationed outside the door. Giving some quick instructions to search the hospital he picked up his cell phone, and dialed Jack. Sue’s note at least made it clear she had not been taken against her will. He waited while Tara tried to pick up her transmission signal off of Sue’s blackberry. Listening for instructions, he turned and headed back out the door.
**
Walking across the empty lot Sue frowned. It was dark, large abandoned drums littered the location and rusting girders dotted the landscape. Stepping across and over construction debris she kept pace, but only barely, her head still aching from earlier. “Is it much farther?” she asked, not wanting to upset him any more, but they had been walking already for sometime.
Finally he stopped. “Over there.” He pointed.
Sue stared at him for a moment, waiting to see if he was going to show her. But he did not move. Climbing over a large concrete beam, she started to slide down the other side. The concrete slab she found herself on lay at an odd angle and she scrambled for a foothold. Below her gaped a large hole. How deep or where it led she could not see in the dark, but the slab hung out over it with nothing to stop her. Slowing her movements she tried to climb back up to the top but it was far too slippery. “Mr. Annis?” she called, but to no answer. Calling his name again and repeatedly she still got no response. Carefully bracing herself she took a heavy sigh. Realizing she still had her Blackberry, Sue gently took it from her pocket and dialed Jack’s number, hoping she was not interrupting his meeting with Garrett. Explaining carefully what happened and where she was, she could see from his answers he was annoyed. He had every right to be. Quick with his responses and not overly wordy, he got right to the point, insisting she wait and not move.
Jack had been within a few blocks of her location by the time she called. Following her instructions, he and Bobby reached the concrete slab and looked over the top. “Oh no.” Taking a small pebble, he tossed it down to get her attention, seeing her look back up at him signed ‘Don’t Move.’
“Don’t think there is much chance of her ending up in your arms this time Sparky.” Bobby quipped, his tone etched with worry. The hole was dark, no telling how deep. “Maybe we should go get a rope or something.”
“Anything could send her over. I need to get her out of there. Here.” Taking off his jacket Jack handed on sleeve to Bobby and held the other. “It won’t quite reach, but it will go some of the way.” Going over the edge, he slid down part way, released the jacket and came alongside her. “Seen a hospital bed around here somewhere?” he frowned. Feeling his feet start to slide he shifted, placing a hand down for better traction.
Sue blinked at him “Annis was here. He was trying to show me what happened to his daughter.”
“By dropping you into a hole in the middle of the night?” Jack sighed. Sorry. Sue… its ok. I don’t care about Annis, right now you’re the one that I want. Let’s get you out of here.” He shifted again to take her hand only to have his feet slip out from under him.
“Jack!” Sue cried and tried to catch hold only to lose her balance as well, sliding the rest of the way and toppling over the edge and into the darkness of the hole below.
She had barely rolled over when she could feel someone watching her. Turning back to where Jack had stood moments before, she startled. “Mr. Annis?”
“You know who I am?” he asked quietly.
Sue nodded, thinking he looked even more tired than the last time she had seen him. “We found your daughter.” She saw him give a slow shiver, his eyes light with tears. “What happened to her, do you know?” Seeing him nod slowly, she sat up more, but he stood in the doorway, unmoving. “Can you tell me?”
“I’ll show you.” He answered.
“I… Sue looked around. Jack would not be back for a couple hours and Bobby had not yet arrived. “Can we wait? I am expecting someone.” He shook his head and started to turn. “No wait, let me get my things.” Grabbing her clothes, Sue dashed into the bathroom and got dressed quickly. Returning she was relieved Engle had not moved, standing where she had left him. Scribbling a quick note to Jack and Bobby she faced him, again, taken back by his sad expression. “Where to?”
****
“What do you mean she’s gone?” Bobby demanded, staring at the nurse in front of him. He had been half an hour behind Jack, and a nurse was supposed to be stationed outside the door. Giving some quick instructions to search the hospital he picked up his cell phone, and dialed Jack. Sue’s note at least made it clear she had not been taken against her will. He waited while Tara tried to pick up her transmission signal off of Sue’s blackberry. Listening for instructions, he turned and headed back out the door.
**
Walking across the empty lot Sue frowned. It was dark, large abandoned drums littered the location and rusting girders dotted the landscape. Stepping across and over construction debris she kept pace, but only barely, her head still aching from earlier. “Is it much farther?” she asked, not wanting to upset him any more, but they had been walking already for sometime.
Finally he stopped. “Over there.” He pointed.
Sue stared at him for a moment, waiting to see if he was going to show her. But he did not move. Climbing over a large concrete beam, she started to slide down the other side. The concrete slab she found herself on lay at an odd angle and she scrambled for a foothold. Below her gaped a large hole. How deep or where it led she could not see in the dark, but the slab hung out over it with nothing to stop her. Slowing her movements she tried to climb back up to the top but it was far too slippery. “Mr. Annis?” she called, but to no answer. Calling his name again and repeatedly she still got no response. Carefully bracing herself she took a heavy sigh. Realizing she still had her Blackberry, Sue gently took it from her pocket and dialed Jack’s number, hoping she was not interrupting his meeting with Garrett. Explaining carefully what happened and where she was, she could see from his answers he was annoyed. He had every right to be. Quick with his responses and not overly wordy, he got right to the point, insisting she wait and not move.
Jack had been within a few blocks of her location by the time she called. Following her instructions, he and Bobby reached the concrete slab and looked over the top. “Oh no.” Taking a small pebble, he tossed it down to get her attention, seeing her look back up at him signed ‘Don’t Move.’
“Don’t think there is much chance of her ending up in your arms this time Sparky.” Bobby quipped, his tone etched with worry. The hole was dark, no telling how deep. “Maybe we should go get a rope or something.”
“Anything could send her over. I need to get her out of there. Here.” Taking off his jacket Jack handed on sleeve to Bobby and held the other. “It won’t quite reach, but it will go some of the way.” Going over the edge, he slid down part way, released the jacket and came alongside her. “Seen a hospital bed around here somewhere?” he frowned. Feeling his feet start to slide he shifted, placing a hand down for better traction.
Sue blinked at him “Annis was here. He was trying to show me what happened to his daughter.”
“By dropping you into a hole in the middle of the night?” Jack sighed. Sorry. Sue… its ok. I don’t care about Annis, right now you’re the one that I want. Let’s get you out of here.” He shifted again to take her hand only to have his feet slip out from under him.
“Jack!” Sue cried and tried to catch hold only to lose her balance as well, sliding the rest of the way and toppling over the edge and into the darkness of the hole below.
Chapter 8
Pitch black, she had landed softly, although no idea how far down. Pushing debris off of her she looked up. A flashlight now shone down and Sue shielded her eyes. Then Bobby tossed it towards her. Climbing awkwardly she managed to retrieve it and shine it back up at him. He was not that far, maybe fifteen feet up, but out of reach regardless. “Where’s Jack?”
“Dunno, under some of those boxes down there. Take it easy. I’m going to get help.” Bobby called, making sure she understood. He had already called Jack’s name and gotten no response. Probably covered with debris as Sue had been, which was lucky, it had broken their fall. Still, he was not answering. Turning fast, he headed back to the car to call for reinforcements and retrieve his towing cable, something to help them get out.
Sue nodded. “Jack?” Shining the light around the large area she could see no sign of him. The boxes she had landed on were unstable at best. Crawling on her hands and knees she worked her way across the debris field. A hand on her arm and she jumped back, only to lose her balance as the box she was on crumpled beneath her.
Catching her to him, Jack braced himself as they tumbled back down, landing hard at the base of the pile. Feeling her tense, he grasped the flashlight, shining it towards himself. “Easy, Sue, its me.” Hearing her heavy sigh he grinned. “You expecting many people down here?” he teased her lightly.
She grinned back. Then recognizing her remark, and realizing again she was tangled back in his embrace, she blushed, thankful it was somewhat dark. A sudden chill ran across her heart at the dark trace on his forehead. “You’re hurt.” Her hand flew to the injury.
“It's ok.” Jack reassured, pulling her up gently. Flattered and embarrassed when she persisted. He finally sat still while she examined the bruise, admiring her eyes so close to his.
Satisfying herself he was indeed not hurt she retreated. “Where are we?”
“The basement of some old building. Annis must have had some reason for choosing this place, other than trying to get you hurt.” Feeling her eyes now on him he shrugged. “Sorry, but I am getting a little tired of him bringing to these odd places and leaving you to fend for yourself. He could at least have stayed and offered a better explanation.”
“His daughter was killed. Maybe he is still upset.” Sue tried to reason.
“He’s not the only one.” Jack muttered, and started to turn. He felt her hand on his shoulder and paused to face her, only to have her hug him, her arms around his neck. Wrapping his arms around her, he pulled her close, marveling at how natural it felt. He had not meant to lose his cool. Of course Annis was upset, but Sue was no agent, nor was she his daughter. And he kept placing her in dangerous situations. Feeling her release, he gave her a quick smile. “Sorry. I’m just worried.” He gently brushed her cheek. “After all, you should be in the hospital, not here.”
Sue looked around the large area where they now stood. “Where is here?”
“Some kind of basement from the looks of it.” Jack knelt down, picking up a piece of paper near their feet and shined the flashlight on it. His jaw clenched and he felt the irritation at Annis start to ebb. “Take a look. Looks like he knew what he was talking about.”
Sue glanced at the memo in Jack’s hand. Quick and non-important it mentioned some interoffice notes, then her eyes caught the header. ‘Reinde Corporation.’ And their logo. Meeting Jack’s eyes she could see the frown on his face. Reinde Corporation was tied to Sara Engle’s death. But where did the group fit into all this?
Jack looked up to see Bobby talking to several fireman, now gathering at the entrance to the hole above. They were lowering a ladder. But he felt no relief. Almost wanting to stay down here. Up meant freedom, but on the other hand, it was as if they were headed deeper than they already were. And they would need more than a ladder to get out.
Pitch black, she had landed softly, although no idea how far down. Pushing debris off of her she looked up. A flashlight now shone down and Sue shielded her eyes. Then Bobby tossed it towards her. Climbing awkwardly she managed to retrieve it and shine it back up at him. He was not that far, maybe fifteen feet up, but out of reach regardless. “Where’s Jack?”
“Dunno, under some of those boxes down there. Take it easy. I’m going to get help.” Bobby called, making sure she understood. He had already called Jack’s name and gotten no response. Probably covered with debris as Sue had been, which was lucky, it had broken their fall. Still, he was not answering. Turning fast, he headed back to the car to call for reinforcements and retrieve his towing cable, something to help them get out.
Sue nodded. “Jack?” Shining the light around the large area she could see no sign of him. The boxes she had landed on were unstable at best. Crawling on her hands and knees she worked her way across the debris field. A hand on her arm and she jumped back, only to lose her balance as the box she was on crumpled beneath her.
Catching her to him, Jack braced himself as they tumbled back down, landing hard at the base of the pile. Feeling her tense, he grasped the flashlight, shining it towards himself. “Easy, Sue, its me.” Hearing her heavy sigh he grinned. “You expecting many people down here?” he teased her lightly.
She grinned back. Then recognizing her remark, and realizing again she was tangled back in his embrace, she blushed, thankful it was somewhat dark. A sudden chill ran across her heart at the dark trace on his forehead. “You’re hurt.” Her hand flew to the injury.
“It's ok.” Jack reassured, pulling her up gently. Flattered and embarrassed when she persisted. He finally sat still while she examined the bruise, admiring her eyes so close to his.
Satisfying herself he was indeed not hurt she retreated. “Where are we?”
“The basement of some old building. Annis must have had some reason for choosing this place, other than trying to get you hurt.” Feeling her eyes now on him he shrugged. “Sorry, but I am getting a little tired of him bringing to these odd places and leaving you to fend for yourself. He could at least have stayed and offered a better explanation.”
“His daughter was killed. Maybe he is still upset.” Sue tried to reason.
“He’s not the only one.” Jack muttered, and started to turn. He felt her hand on his shoulder and paused to face her, only to have her hug him, her arms around his neck. Wrapping his arms around her, he pulled her close, marveling at how natural it felt. He had not meant to lose his cool. Of course Annis was upset, but Sue was no agent, nor was she his daughter. And he kept placing her in dangerous situations. Feeling her release, he gave her a quick smile. “Sorry. I’m just worried.” He gently brushed her cheek. “After all, you should be in the hospital, not here.”
Sue looked around the large area where they now stood. “Where is here?”
“Some kind of basement from the looks of it.” Jack knelt down, picking up a piece of paper near their feet and shined the flashlight on it. His jaw clenched and he felt the irritation at Annis start to ebb. “Take a look. Looks like he knew what he was talking about.”
Sue glanced at the memo in Jack’s hand. Quick and non-important it mentioned some interoffice notes, then her eyes caught the header. ‘Reinde Corporation.’ And their logo. Meeting Jack’s eyes she could see the frown on his face. Reinde Corporation was tied to Sara Engle’s death. But where did the group fit into all this?
Jack looked up to see Bobby talking to several fireman, now gathering at the entrance to the hole above. They were lowering a ladder. But he felt no relief. Almost wanting to stay down here. Up meant freedom, but on the other hand, it was as if they were headed deeper than they already were. And they would need more than a ladder to get out.
Chapter 9
Bobby looked up from the papers in front of him to see Jack glance at the closed door across from the waiting room yet again. They were all concerned, and with good reason. Doing their best was not cutting it in this case. Sue had disappeared twice. They could not protect her, as much as they were trying to. He hated to think the consequences if they lost her. Jack’s face alone when she had gone missing from her apartment had said more they Jack had intended about how close they had become. As much as they all cared for her, she meant much more to him, a good thing and about time. He wished he could do more to reassure him. Right now their priority had to be solving the case and putting an end to her risk. “Jack, We’re on the fourth floor, and the only way out is through here. Let her sleep. And if Annis shows up, we’ll talk to him.”
“I know.” Jack replied, but his tone was no more certain than he was. He had only left her side reluctantly after the doctor had insisted. But Bobby had a point. From her hospital room, the only way in or out was through this door. However, she had disappeared twice in twenty-four hours, he wasn’t taking any chances.
“So this is where you two have been hiding.” Myles voice rang clear as he strode towards them, Tara at his side. “We bring tidings of great joy.” He handed a folder dramatically to Jack who rose to take it. “The connection you have been looking for between our little Nazi friends and Reinde Corporation.”
“I was checking on Reinde’s corporate officers. And there was no connection. Then I checked their immediate families.” Tara beamed.
“And you found something?” Jack added.
“Sure did. Mr. Engle’s son, his supposedly estranged son. Moved here three years ago from Germany. I did a little checking and found he not only subscribed to several Neo-Nazi websites, but has a record.” Tara handed the folder to Jack who opened it quickly, skimming the long report, a slow smile spreading across his face.
“We already have SOG tracking him down.” Myles nodded at Jack’s look. “Hopefully he will still be at the address on his parole report.”
“What about the construction site.” Jack began. Has D reported anything from there?”
Tara shook her head. “But they have some things they are doing additional analysis. Some kinda of residue the lab wanted to check. If you recall, we found an unknown substance in several of the bodies of the women. Remember the report about Reinde working on a new cancer treatment drug?” Seeing Jack’s nod she continued. “Well, they were originally doing their testing in their German plant. But they were suspended for not warning subjects about health risks. Evidently two women died in their clinical trials. I requested the reports from the coroners in Germany. I had to pull a few strings, but the lab is comparing them now to the autopsies of our victims.”
“So you think its possible that Reinde is behind the deaths?” Bobby asked, his eyes narrowing in anger. “And if that’s the case, what would that have to do with the Nazi group? Unless, Reinde is using them to,” Bobby took a deep breath “to find people to test their drug on?”
Jack sat slowly, Bobby’s deduction hitting hard. He ran his hand through his hair. It was not a difficult deduction. He recalled the last Nazi sympathizer group they had encountered, and what they had done to Helga and her family. Feeling Levi touch his knee, he absent-mindedly stroked the Golden’s head, then looked up. Jack’s eyes drifted again to Sue’s now closed door, and he stood, crossing the hall quickly. It was a flash of worry, but one he needed to calm, that she was still safe. He opened the door slowly to not flood the room with light, he just needed to check on her one more time. Helga’s chilling story from another hospital not so long ago haunting him. He could still hear Sue’s voice translating the word ‘defectives’ that Helga’s Nazi captors had called the deaf community. He could see the end of Sue’s bed, her covers thrown back. A door to an adjacent room, previously hidden behind a curtain, was now open. Entering fast, his hand on his gun, checked the other room, only to find it equally empty. Coming out the door he nearly ran over Myles, Bobby now behind him. He shook his head, words escaping him, fear and concern now weighing heavily.
“Reinde Corporation, or Annis?” Myles snapped in frustration.
“Reinde. We would have spotted Annis.” Bobby returned, seeing Jack already dialing his cell hurriedly. No doubt dispatching a team to Reinde’s headquarters, and any other locations.
“Jack!” Tara hurried up. “The nurse says that the Reinde representative just left here a few minutes ago with a blond woman. They are checking with the hospital parking lot personnel to get a license number.”
Jack nodded as if in the middle of a nightmare. Sue had disappeared yet again. And if their suspicions were true, she had not much time. But they must know she was with the FBI? That they were on to them? Or did they? It was a far-fetched plan, but it might be their best choice. Feeling Levi now press against him he continued to give instructions while kneeling to hug the dog. He could see the faces of the team on stand-by, waiting for instructions. The cards were dealt, but he had still had one more card to play. Hearing the answer, he sucked in a deep breath and began filling them in.
Bobby looked up from the papers in front of him to see Jack glance at the closed door across from the waiting room yet again. They were all concerned, and with good reason. Doing their best was not cutting it in this case. Sue had disappeared twice. They could not protect her, as much as they were trying to. He hated to think the consequences if they lost her. Jack’s face alone when she had gone missing from her apartment had said more they Jack had intended about how close they had become. As much as they all cared for her, she meant much more to him, a good thing and about time. He wished he could do more to reassure him. Right now their priority had to be solving the case and putting an end to her risk. “Jack, We’re on the fourth floor, and the only way out is through here. Let her sleep. And if Annis shows up, we’ll talk to him.”
“I know.” Jack replied, but his tone was no more certain than he was. He had only left her side reluctantly after the doctor had insisted. But Bobby had a point. From her hospital room, the only way in or out was through this door. However, she had disappeared twice in twenty-four hours, he wasn’t taking any chances.
“So this is where you two have been hiding.” Myles voice rang clear as he strode towards them, Tara at his side. “We bring tidings of great joy.” He handed a folder dramatically to Jack who rose to take it. “The connection you have been looking for between our little Nazi friends and Reinde Corporation.”
“I was checking on Reinde’s corporate officers. And there was no connection. Then I checked their immediate families.” Tara beamed.
“And you found something?” Jack added.
“Sure did. Mr. Engle’s son, his supposedly estranged son. Moved here three years ago from Germany. I did a little checking and found he not only subscribed to several Neo-Nazi websites, but has a record.” Tara handed the folder to Jack who opened it quickly, skimming the long report, a slow smile spreading across his face.
“We already have SOG tracking him down.” Myles nodded at Jack’s look. “Hopefully he will still be at the address on his parole report.”
“What about the construction site.” Jack began. Has D reported anything from there?”
Tara shook her head. “But they have some things they are doing additional analysis. Some kinda of residue the lab wanted to check. If you recall, we found an unknown substance in several of the bodies of the women. Remember the report about Reinde working on a new cancer treatment drug?” Seeing Jack’s nod she continued. “Well, they were originally doing their testing in their German plant. But they were suspended for not warning subjects about health risks. Evidently two women died in their clinical trials. I requested the reports from the coroners in Germany. I had to pull a few strings, but the lab is comparing them now to the autopsies of our victims.”
“So you think its possible that Reinde is behind the deaths?” Bobby asked, his eyes narrowing in anger. “And if that’s the case, what would that have to do with the Nazi group? Unless, Reinde is using them to,” Bobby took a deep breath “to find people to test their drug on?”
Jack sat slowly, Bobby’s deduction hitting hard. He ran his hand through his hair. It was not a difficult deduction. He recalled the last Nazi sympathizer group they had encountered, and what they had done to Helga and her family. Feeling Levi touch his knee, he absent-mindedly stroked the Golden’s head, then looked up. Jack’s eyes drifted again to Sue’s now closed door, and he stood, crossing the hall quickly. It was a flash of worry, but one he needed to calm, that she was still safe. He opened the door slowly to not flood the room with light, he just needed to check on her one more time. Helga’s chilling story from another hospital not so long ago haunting him. He could still hear Sue’s voice translating the word ‘defectives’ that Helga’s Nazi captors had called the deaf community. He could see the end of Sue’s bed, her covers thrown back. A door to an adjacent room, previously hidden behind a curtain, was now open. Entering fast, his hand on his gun, checked the other room, only to find it equally empty. Coming out the door he nearly ran over Myles, Bobby now behind him. He shook his head, words escaping him, fear and concern now weighing heavily.
“Reinde Corporation, or Annis?” Myles snapped in frustration.
“Reinde. We would have spotted Annis.” Bobby returned, seeing Jack already dialing his cell hurriedly. No doubt dispatching a team to Reinde’s headquarters, and any other locations.
“Jack!” Tara hurried up. “The nurse says that the Reinde representative just left here a few minutes ago with a blond woman. They are checking with the hospital parking lot personnel to get a license number.”
Jack nodded as if in the middle of a nightmare. Sue had disappeared yet again. And if their suspicions were true, she had not much time. But they must know she was with the FBI? That they were on to them? Or did they? It was a far-fetched plan, but it might be their best choice. Feeling Levi now press against him he continued to give instructions while kneeling to hug the dog. He could see the faces of the team on stand-by, waiting for instructions. The cards were dealt, but he had still had one more card to play. Hearing the answer, he sucked in a deep breath and began filling them in.
Chapter 10
Sue sat in the corner of the room, not the best place to be, but then, it did not matter. It was locked, the ceiling tiles nailed and there was no window. There was no way out. Her knees up, her arms folded and her head down, she just wanted time to pass. She had not wanted to leave the hospital, but the threat had been real. She had seen Jack and Bobby busy at work, and wanted to call out. But the young man standing behind their position was armed, his gun at the ready. They would not have a chance to draw and fire back. Only Levi had seen her, watching with silent eyes. She had signed to him to stay, and he had watched her leave. The inside of her cheek now raw from where she had bitten it to keep from crying. They had driven away, but not that far. The fact they had not bothered to blindfold or confuse her was evidence of her fate. She was going to die. They knew it so they had not bothered. Looking up at two feet now before her she blinked at Mr. Annis, now kneeling before her. “You work…. here?” she asked in shock.
“I did not know what they were doing, until Sarah.” He said sadly.
“What are they doing?” Sue asked, her breath now tight.
His eyes regarded her sadly. “I told you they were watching. I tried to warn you. But you did not understand. Why did you not understand?”
Tears springing to her eyes Sue blinked. “I tried. They’re going to kill me too, aren’t they? Because I’m different?”
He nodded. “Easy to find, it’s the service dog. Women with a service dog – quite vulnerable, and don’t defend themselves well. And, in their minds, worth the price or being caught. That’s why they used the Nazi group. Because they were perfect to bring in subjects. To them, they were doing a civic duty, getting rid of those who did not deserve to live to save others. Reinde needed human test subjects. It was a good match in their minds. You remind me of Sarah you know.”
“But, how could?” Her voice cracking she looked away, trying to steady herself, her breath now ragged. “They must know they will get caught.”
Annis shook his head. “Its all about money. Enough money and blame the group. Blame the women. Say they signed disclaimers. That’s what they did with Sarah. Said the drugs confused her. Said she left and ran off. Say she was murdered. Disappear they will. They needed to be stopped. I had hoped you were the answer.” He coughed, then stood slowly, looking down on where Sue sat. “You don’t have much time.” He saw her close her eyes and take a breath.
“They killed Sarah’s dog too?” Sue breathed.
“Ranger? He did nothing. But then, none of them did. They were afraid he would, I don’t know. They just don’t understand.”
“Please?” Sue began, and saw him pause and turn back. Then return and kneel before her. “Please, don’t give up. You need to tell someone else what you know. You can’t let them continue this. Even if, I don’t make it. Tell my friends. They will stop this. So no one like Sarah will hurt again.” She couldn’t beg for her life, as much as she had been tempted. Had he been able to help her, he would have. Dissolving into tears, she turned her head, she needed to keep control. How Jack did it so well… Jack… he would be worried, and when they found her…Sue buried her head in her arms not able to hold back the sobs that racked her frame. When she finally looked up, he was gone, and she was alone again.
Sue sat in the corner of the room, not the best place to be, but then, it did not matter. It was locked, the ceiling tiles nailed and there was no window. There was no way out. Her knees up, her arms folded and her head down, she just wanted time to pass. She had not wanted to leave the hospital, but the threat had been real. She had seen Jack and Bobby busy at work, and wanted to call out. But the young man standing behind their position was armed, his gun at the ready. They would not have a chance to draw and fire back. Only Levi had seen her, watching with silent eyes. She had signed to him to stay, and he had watched her leave. The inside of her cheek now raw from where she had bitten it to keep from crying. They had driven away, but not that far. The fact they had not bothered to blindfold or confuse her was evidence of her fate. She was going to die. They knew it so they had not bothered. Looking up at two feet now before her she blinked at Mr. Annis, now kneeling before her. “You work…. here?” she asked in shock.
“I did not know what they were doing, until Sarah.” He said sadly.
“What are they doing?” Sue asked, her breath now tight.
His eyes regarded her sadly. “I told you they were watching. I tried to warn you. But you did not understand. Why did you not understand?”
Tears springing to her eyes Sue blinked. “I tried. They’re going to kill me too, aren’t they? Because I’m different?”
He nodded. “Easy to find, it’s the service dog. Women with a service dog – quite vulnerable, and don’t defend themselves well. And, in their minds, worth the price or being caught. That’s why they used the Nazi group. Because they were perfect to bring in subjects. To them, they were doing a civic duty, getting rid of those who did not deserve to live to save others. Reinde needed human test subjects. It was a good match in their minds. You remind me of Sarah you know.”
“But, how could?” Her voice cracking she looked away, trying to steady herself, her breath now ragged. “They must know they will get caught.”
Annis shook his head. “Its all about money. Enough money and blame the group. Blame the women. Say they signed disclaimers. That’s what they did with Sarah. Said the drugs confused her. Said she left and ran off. Say she was murdered. Disappear they will. They needed to be stopped. I had hoped you were the answer.” He coughed, then stood slowly, looking down on where Sue sat. “You don’t have much time.” He saw her close her eyes and take a breath.
“They killed Sarah’s dog too?” Sue breathed.
“Ranger? He did nothing. But then, none of them did. They were afraid he would, I don’t know. They just don’t understand.”
“Please?” Sue began, and saw him pause and turn back. Then return and kneel before her. “Please, don’t give up. You need to tell someone else what you know. You can’t let them continue this. Even if, I don’t make it. Tell my friends. They will stop this. So no one like Sarah will hurt again.” She couldn’t beg for her life, as much as she had been tempted. Had he been able to help her, he would have. Dissolving into tears, she turned her head, she needed to keep control. How Jack did it so well… Jack… he would be worried, and when they found her…Sue buried her head in her arms not able to hold back the sobs that racked her frame. When she finally looked up, he was gone, and she was alone again.
Chapter 11
In the end it had not mattered. Jack had gotten the warrant, but time had passed, and time was against them. His focus on the task at hand, he needed to find her. Sue would be counting on him to get there in time. Entering through the gates and then the front doors of Reinde’s building, Jack did not bothered to mince words, demanding from the security guards the location of their labs and examining rooms. Looking at each other and then the FBI, both guards offered little help, appearing baffled.
“Then perhaps you would both understand that the penalty for taking part in the murder of a federal employee will put you both in jail for a very long time.” Bobby shouted, his patience gone.
“Hey, I don’t know anything about that.” One guard answered defensively.
“Then let me refresh your memory, blond, pretty, yeah high, and the only chance you have of getting out of this mess.” Myles snapped back.
Jack watched their eyes as they exchanged looks, holding his breath. The building was four floors, and housed over 5,000 employees. Trying to find Sue on their own would waste more time. Perhaps the feel of handcuffs would bring them around…
“They brought her here an hour ago. Third floor I think.” The thin guard breathed, jumping to the side and they rushed past him.
Jack could feel his heart cramp, the fear for Sue welling. An hour, so much could have happened in an hour. They had run the stairs and spread out. Checking room after room, time dragged his soul. He heard D’s shout and sped towards the door D and Myles had just entered, gun drawn.
In the end it had not mattered. Jack had gotten the warrant, but time had passed, and time was against them. His focus on the task at hand, he needed to find her. Sue would be counting on him to get there in time. Entering through the gates and then the front doors of Reinde’s building, Jack did not bothered to mince words, demanding from the security guards the location of their labs and examining rooms. Looking at each other and then the FBI, both guards offered little help, appearing baffled.
“Then perhaps you would both understand that the penalty for taking part in the murder of a federal employee will put you both in jail for a very long time.” Bobby shouted, his patience gone.
“Hey, I don’t know anything about that.” One guard answered defensively.
“Then let me refresh your memory, blond, pretty, yeah high, and the only chance you have of getting out of this mess.” Myles snapped back.
Jack watched their eyes as they exchanged looks, holding his breath. The building was four floors, and housed over 5,000 employees. Trying to find Sue on their own would waste more time. Perhaps the feel of handcuffs would bring them around…
“They brought her here an hour ago. Third floor I think.” The thin guard breathed, jumping to the side and they rushed past him.
Jack could feel his heart cramp, the fear for Sue welling. An hour, so much could have happened in an hour. They had run the stairs and spread out. Checking room after room, time dragged his soul. He heard D’s shout and sped towards the door D and Myles had just entered, gun drawn.
The scene before him tore him from the inside. Sue lay uncannily still and pale on a table, with her arm exposed. There was a rubber tie just above the elbow and a small amount of blood at the injection site. Next to her was a tray by her side with instruments, gauze, a spent syringe, a medical bottle with clear liquid. Annis was still struggling with Myles, his hands around a scalpel. D had two men cornered, his gun aimed and ready, one he recognized as Engle’s son.
“You can’t do this. I am so close! There were no convulsions this time, it was peaceful. I just need tissue samples. NO!” Annis screamed, pulling furiously against Myles.
Bobby jumped and caught Jack as he lunged at Annis, tearing his friend back. He could see the scalpel fall and Myles shove Annis against the wall snapping on handcuffs. Jack was now struggling hard. Bobby released him, only to have Jack whirl back at him, his eyes razor sharp. “Go to Sue. Jack.... We’ll handle this.” He could hear his own voice crack, not wanting to look at her. Jack stared at him for a moment, his eyes distant, then blinking back to harsh reality. Bobby lay his hand on Jack’s shoulder, their grief pooling between them.
Moving away, Jack drew close to where Sue lay motionless. He reached out, then placed his hand tenderly on her hair and froze. Had it always been that soft? Had he ever told her? He could hear Annis’ shouts and mentally slammed the door against him, not wanted to hear anymore. They were taking him away, not that it mattered. Swallowing hard, he pulled at the rubber tie, removing it and lowered Sue's sleeve. There was still a tear cuaght on her cheek and he knew he was now crying where she had left off. Gently touching her face, he studied each nuance, each feature, already missing the hazel eyes that had been so full of life the last time he had seen them. It suddenly occurred to him this was not the place for her. Reaching around and underneath, Jack carefully gathered her to him, resting her head on his shoulder, and lifting her tenderly into his arms. Holding her, he closed his eyes for a moment, trying to remember the last thing she had said to him, but he couldn’t. Racking his brain backwards, all he could hear were her words that night at the gas station, ‘Please don’t let go'. He hadn’t meant to, he never wanted to, and somehow this was his fault. She had asked for his help, and he had let her down. Turning, he could see Bobby now waiting by the door. “She doesn’t belong here.” He whispered hoarsely.
“I know.” Bobby answered, not sure what else to say, his own heart now tight.
Jack had to swallow hard and nodded. His normally calm exterior was frayed and raw. Keeping her close, he would at least make sure she was taken care of now. Entering the now empty hall, they walked in silence, Jack thankful for the company, and yet, wishing he were alone. She was so light in his arms. Lost in his own thoughts, he rounded the corner and nearly collided with a tall man standing there, as if waiting. “Mr. Engle?”
“You can’t do this. I am so close! There were no convulsions this time, it was peaceful. I just need tissue samples. NO!” Annis screamed, pulling furiously against Myles.
Bobby jumped and caught Jack as he lunged at Annis, tearing his friend back. He could see the scalpel fall and Myles shove Annis against the wall snapping on handcuffs. Jack was now struggling hard. Bobby released him, only to have Jack whirl back at him, his eyes razor sharp. “Go to Sue. Jack.... We’ll handle this.” He could hear his own voice crack, not wanting to look at her. Jack stared at him for a moment, his eyes distant, then blinking back to harsh reality. Bobby lay his hand on Jack’s shoulder, their grief pooling between them.
Moving away, Jack drew close to where Sue lay motionless. He reached out, then placed his hand tenderly on her hair and froze. Had it always been that soft? Had he ever told her? He could hear Annis’ shouts and mentally slammed the door against him, not wanted to hear anymore. They were taking him away, not that it mattered. Swallowing hard, he pulled at the rubber tie, removing it and lowered Sue's sleeve. There was still a tear cuaght on her cheek and he knew he was now crying where she had left off. Gently touching her face, he studied each nuance, each feature, already missing the hazel eyes that had been so full of life the last time he had seen them. It suddenly occurred to him this was not the place for her. Reaching around and underneath, Jack carefully gathered her to him, resting her head on his shoulder, and lifting her tenderly into his arms. Holding her, he closed his eyes for a moment, trying to remember the last thing she had said to him, but he couldn’t. Racking his brain backwards, all he could hear were her words that night at the gas station, ‘Please don’t let go'. He hadn’t meant to, he never wanted to, and somehow this was his fault. She had asked for his help, and he had let her down. Turning, he could see Bobby now waiting by the door. “She doesn’t belong here.” He whispered hoarsely.
“I know.” Bobby answered, not sure what else to say, his own heart now tight.
Jack had to swallow hard and nodded. His normally calm exterior was frayed and raw. Keeping her close, he would at least make sure she was taken care of now. Entering the now empty hall, they walked in silence, Jack thankful for the company, and yet, wishing he were alone. She was so light in his arms. Lost in his own thoughts, he rounded the corner and nearly collided with a tall man standing there, as if waiting. “Mr. Engle?”
Bobby tensed beside Jack. The corporate officer had been their first choice to bring in had they not secured the warrant when they did. His son was now in custody. As the second largest shareholder in the company, and would profit the most when the drug hit the market. “What are you doing here?” he demanded tersely. “Haven’t you done enough?”
The man’s eyes were hollow as they fell to Sue in Jack’s arms. “I didn’t know. Not until Lynn Donaldson was killed. Annis was obsessed and deranged. And all I did was look at his reports. And then that girl’s death. He told me how much he resented his daughter’s deafness. How she was different. How my son had it right. She was 'defective', and could at least have some use. She had been his first test subject. I didn’t want to know but he told me anyhow. Using her to test a high dose of his drug for side-effects. When it killed her, he got the idea. One minute happy and clear, the next he was sad and remorseful, like two different people. I think Sarah’s death snapped him, sent him over the edge. I should have seen the madness, questioned more.”
“Killing some to save others?” Bobby said bitterly.
Engle nodded, his eyes still on Sue. “She reminded him of his daughter. Said he had another one lined up. That he had warned her, so whatever happened was her fault. That’s when I checked the books, and confronted my son. I knew it all, I wish I hadn’t. He lured her to the site that night, hoping she would be killed, and yet, I think part of his madness wanted to be caught. I’m sorry.” His eyes raised to Jack. “You didn’t let her down, I did. I should have stopped him. Her last words were for you.” He nodded at Sue. “She’s waking up, good. I was not sure how much he gave her. I switched the bottles so he injected her with a sleeping aide instead of the drug. It was the only way to give you enough time to get here.”
Jack looked down, only to realize in shock that Sue’s eyes were now fluttering open. Backing to the wall for support, he slid cautiously to the ground, cradling her against him. Placing his finger under her chin, his breath caught in disbelief as she looked up. Her was expression confused, her eyes somewhat unfocused, and she was alive.
“In your arms again?” she breathed shakily.
With a gasp he hugged her close, his hands caressing her hair. His eyes caught Bobby’s, then he squeezed them tight to steady himself. Then lifting his head only enough to catch her half startled, half sleepy expression, his lips captured hers. Caught between passion and relief, he reveled in staying there, her response slow and earnest. He could hear Bobby saying something, but could not tear himself away, not now. Finally, just to see her soft eyes looking back into his he eased.
Sue blinked through the fog, not sure where reality ended and her dream was hovering. But the nightmare was at least over. Jack’s kiss assured her of that, taking her somewhere else entirely. Her hand now rested lightly on his chest, she was no longer sure if he was reassuring her, or her him. Disappointed when he broke the kiss, she nestled close him and sighed quietly, a heavy cloud still weighing on her brain. Looking up into the deep brown eyes now watching she smiled hazily. “Jack?”
“Yes?”
“Maybe I just need to stay here like this. I’d rather skip the rest.” She mumbled, her eyes starting to drift restfully closed.
Jack heard Bobby’s soft laugh and glanced at his friend, now grinning broadly. Jack placed his hand alongside her cheek he stroked it softly with his thumb. “I have to agree with you. This is much better.”
The man’s eyes were hollow as they fell to Sue in Jack’s arms. “I didn’t know. Not until Lynn Donaldson was killed. Annis was obsessed and deranged. And all I did was look at his reports. And then that girl’s death. He told me how much he resented his daughter’s deafness. How she was different. How my son had it right. She was 'defective', and could at least have some use. She had been his first test subject. I didn’t want to know but he told me anyhow. Using her to test a high dose of his drug for side-effects. When it killed her, he got the idea. One minute happy and clear, the next he was sad and remorseful, like two different people. I think Sarah’s death snapped him, sent him over the edge. I should have seen the madness, questioned more.”
“Killing some to save others?” Bobby said bitterly.
Engle nodded, his eyes still on Sue. “She reminded him of his daughter. Said he had another one lined up. That he had warned her, so whatever happened was her fault. That’s when I checked the books, and confronted my son. I knew it all, I wish I hadn’t. He lured her to the site that night, hoping she would be killed, and yet, I think part of his madness wanted to be caught. I’m sorry.” His eyes raised to Jack. “You didn’t let her down, I did. I should have stopped him. Her last words were for you.” He nodded at Sue. “She’s waking up, good. I was not sure how much he gave her. I switched the bottles so he injected her with a sleeping aide instead of the drug. It was the only way to give you enough time to get here.”
Jack looked down, only to realize in shock that Sue’s eyes were now fluttering open. Backing to the wall for support, he slid cautiously to the ground, cradling her against him. Placing his finger under her chin, his breath caught in disbelief as she looked up. Her was expression confused, her eyes somewhat unfocused, and she was alive.
“In your arms again?” she breathed shakily.
With a gasp he hugged her close, his hands caressing her hair. His eyes caught Bobby’s, then he squeezed them tight to steady himself. Then lifting his head only enough to catch her half startled, half sleepy expression, his lips captured hers. Caught between passion and relief, he reveled in staying there, her response slow and earnest. He could hear Bobby saying something, but could not tear himself away, not now. Finally, just to see her soft eyes looking back into his he eased.
Sue blinked through the fog, not sure where reality ended and her dream was hovering. But the nightmare was at least over. Jack’s kiss assured her of that, taking her somewhere else entirely. Her hand now rested lightly on his chest, she was no longer sure if he was reassuring her, or her him. Disappointed when he broke the kiss, she nestled close him and sighed quietly, a heavy cloud still weighing on her brain. Looking up into the deep brown eyes now watching she smiled hazily. “Jack?”
“Yes?”
“Maybe I just need to stay here like this. I’d rather skip the rest.” She mumbled, her eyes starting to drift restfully closed.
Jack heard Bobby’s soft laugh and glanced at his friend, now grinning broadly. Jack placed his hand alongside her cheek he stroked it softly with his thumb. “I have to agree with you. This is much better.”
Chapter 12
Sue’s eyes slowly opened, the morning light now soft in her bedroom. Jack was still resting alongside her, his head on the next pillow. Only removing his tie, he had not hesitated when she had asked him to stay. Now with his arm lightly across her waist and his face peaceful, she still did not regret the decision. Over his shoulder she could see the closed door. Lucy had probably thought she was doing them a favor. As much as their relationship had changed in the just the last couple days, they had not even gone on a dinner date. And yet, she felt closer to Jack than she had with anyone. Her best friend, he was closer to her in ways she did not even understand. He had been anxious, not wanting to let her out of his sight until the last of the group was in custody. However, his plan to lay a sleeping bag down at the end of her bed was too much. Instead she had suggested they get some rest. Reaching up with her hand, she lightly touched his cheek, and could feel his breath tickle the back of her hand. She wondered what it would be like to wake each day like this, and then flushed as her own thoughts warmed. Moving close, she lightly brushed her lips over the tip of his nose, then began to scoot back, only to have his grip tighten, then pull her back to him, his eyes now awake. “You’re awake?”
“Barely. You know me and mornings. You going somewhere?” he asked, his face puzzled, a hint of concern.
“Just thought I better get up. You did say we had some places to go this morning.” She said haltingly. His face so close and his eyes were studying hers. The effect stilled her, except her heart.
Jack touched, then stroked her hair. “Have I ever told you how soft your hair is?” he asked quietly. Seeing her blush and a small shake of her head, he sighed. “I guess I need to do a better job.”
Quirking her mouth to the side, she sparkled back. “Its not like I’ve commented on yours either.”
“True.” He smiled, realizing how much he just enjoyed her presence. Morning, evening, at work or now. And now, her hair tussled, her face wonderful close, his smile faded slowly. Jack moved his hand from her hair around her shoulders and pulled her slowly to him, her body flush with his. He could see her swallow hard, her eyes widen, but there was no fear. He knew he was attractive, but the fact that she was responding to it was all that mattered. He began the kiss with a quiet touch, allowing their lips to just meet. A delicate caress and effortlessly time slipped away. The kiss a tender conversation across minds. No reason for care, it felt right, she felt right against him and with him. He pulled back on his own. If kissing her was this easy, he could get lost in so much more. “See, no tragedy and we can still end up this way.” He breathed.
“I’m not disappointed.”
Her face was earnest, but he did a double take. It did not quite sound like Sue. Not usually so sure of herself emotionally, her confidence around him was something he had not expected. Welcomed and hoped for, but not expected. More intimate than the kiss or the embrace, the opening of her heart made him pause. Sweeping her one more time with his eyes, he kissed her forehead. “Neither am I.”
Sue’s eyes slowly opened, the morning light now soft in her bedroom. Jack was still resting alongside her, his head on the next pillow. Only removing his tie, he had not hesitated when she had asked him to stay. Now with his arm lightly across her waist and his face peaceful, she still did not regret the decision. Over his shoulder she could see the closed door. Lucy had probably thought she was doing them a favor. As much as their relationship had changed in the just the last couple days, they had not even gone on a dinner date. And yet, she felt closer to Jack than she had with anyone. Her best friend, he was closer to her in ways she did not even understand. He had been anxious, not wanting to let her out of his sight until the last of the group was in custody. However, his plan to lay a sleeping bag down at the end of her bed was too much. Instead she had suggested they get some rest. Reaching up with her hand, she lightly touched his cheek, and could feel his breath tickle the back of her hand. She wondered what it would be like to wake each day like this, and then flushed as her own thoughts warmed. Moving close, she lightly brushed her lips over the tip of his nose, then began to scoot back, only to have his grip tighten, then pull her back to him, his eyes now awake. “You’re awake?”
“Barely. You know me and mornings. You going somewhere?” he asked, his face puzzled, a hint of concern.
“Just thought I better get up. You did say we had some places to go this morning.” She said haltingly. His face so close and his eyes were studying hers. The effect stilled her, except her heart.
Jack touched, then stroked her hair. “Have I ever told you how soft your hair is?” he asked quietly. Seeing her blush and a small shake of her head, he sighed. “I guess I need to do a better job.”
Quirking her mouth to the side, she sparkled back. “Its not like I’ve commented on yours either.”
“True.” He smiled, realizing how much he just enjoyed her presence. Morning, evening, at work or now. And now, her hair tussled, her face wonderful close, his smile faded slowly. Jack moved his hand from her hair around her shoulders and pulled her slowly to him, her body flush with his. He could see her swallow hard, her eyes widen, but there was no fear. He knew he was attractive, but the fact that she was responding to it was all that mattered. He began the kiss with a quiet touch, allowing their lips to just meet. A delicate caress and effortlessly time slipped away. The kiss a tender conversation across minds. No reason for care, it felt right, she felt right against him and with him. He pulled back on his own. If kissing her was this easy, he could get lost in so much more. “See, no tragedy and we can still end up this way.” He breathed.
“I’m not disappointed.”
Her face was earnest, but he did a double take. It did not quite sound like Sue. Not usually so sure of herself emotionally, her confidence around him was something he had not expected. Welcomed and hoped for, but not expected. More intimate than the kiss or the embrace, the opening of her heart made him pause. Sweeping her one more time with his eyes, he kissed her forehead. “Neither am I.”
Chapter 13
Standing on the steps of the Engle’s house, Jack longed to be back in Sue’s bedroom with her in his arms. As much as he wanted this case over, this interrogation was not one he particularly looked forward to. The man had saved Sue. However, his son was now in custody. The company he was a part of was now in jeopardy and Engle was riddled with guilt. Their appearance and questions, while not unexpected, would be another blow. Still, they needed his help. There were many unanswered questions and Engle had mentioned reports last night in the hallway. And while Annis had continued to babble to the psychiatrists and agents assigned to him, a clear inside take on the case was necessary.
Knocking on the door, Jack exchanged brief looks with Bobby, Sue, Myles and D. Door opening, a slender, well dressed woman stood tall before them. Noting the ring on her finger, Jack took a deep breath. “Mrs. Engle?”
Seeing her nod, D stepped forward, showing his badge. “FBI. We are sorry to bother you. I am afraid we need to ask you a few questions.”
“Of course.” Stepping backwards into the hallway leaving the door ajar for them and turned right into another room.
Entering the house, Myles took a quick glance around. Well appointed and spacious, Engle had done well for himself. This was going to be difficult on the entire family. Shutting the door he followed Jack after Mrs. Engle. The den when she now stood waiting was soft in hue, a stark contrast to their purpose.
“Please sit.” She gestured, and waited before seating herself in the delicate chair between the two sofas.
Sue sat cautiously on the couch, near to Mrs. Engle, with Jack on her other side. She was grateful for his presence. Even with the team, and Levi, she was uneasy. The man had saved her life, but she had come so close to losing it. Still, Mrs. Engle’s appearance seemed Her heart went out to his wife. “Mrs. Engle. I am not sure you are aware…” she began.
“You’re deaf.” Mrs. Engle interrupted, her eyes now up, wide and focused on Sue.
Jack braced, and could see the others do the same. “Is that a problem?” he asked. Most people never mentioned Sue’s differences, or chose to ask in a round about manner. Mrs. Engle’s statement had placed the entire team off guard.
“My husband, right before, he was upset. He asked me about how I felt about,” she paused and appearing flustered “people like you. I don’t know any. He explained Hans was involved in some hate group.” Her voice faded and she looked to her right and the collection of pictures there.
“Can we see your husband?” D asked quietly.
Mrs. Engle picked up the picture closest to her, handing it to Jack. The face of the man in the hallway smiled back at him from in front of a Christmas tree. Hearing Sue’s sharp intake of breath he glanced at her. Her face now pale, he placed his hand on her hers, his face a question. From the corner of his eye, he could see the others now focused as well. “Sue?”
“He was the one in my apartment that night, when I left. He told me how and where to find Susan. I don’t know why I followed his instructions, but he seemed so upset.” She said quietly.
Giving Sue’s hand a squeeze he nodded. It made sense. Having found out what Annis was up to, Engle must had gone after Sue three nights ago, wanting to tip her off. He had tried to save her twice. Jack looked up at Mrs. Engle. “I think we really need to talk to him.” Jack urged softly.
“My husband killed himself, Halloween night. The funeral was today. He left me this note.” Mrs. Engle broke into tears, pulling a crumpled note from her pocket and offering it in front of her.
Staring at the paper in disbelief, Jack met eyes with each of the others. They had seen Engle, Sue had obeyed him, and he and Bobby had talked to him. Engle told them he had switched the bottles at Reinde, if he hadn’t had done that, Sue would not be here now… Taking the note from her shaking hand, Jack unfolded it slowly. With Bobby leaning in from one side, and Sue close on the other, he still felt an uneasy wave sweep through him. Sue was now shaking. Placing his hand on her knee, and exchanging looks with Myles and D, he read…
My wife,
I have lived on this earth these fifty-four years, and yet tonight I find myself with no life to cling to. The spirit and soul I believed was in me have fled. I thought myself to be a man of deep humanity, a part of something wonderful that would save many lives. We are all of the same family on this earth, our presence here merely a fleeting moment. And what we do with that generous gift is a choice that we must take with us to the next one. My gift wasted, I find I can no longer live with the knowledge that some lives have been taken during my journey.
Please forgive me for leaving you. While I cannot set right what I have allowed to go wrong, you still have a chance. I ask you consider, in my memory your gift, your day and your life. I shall miss you.
Your devoted husband,
Frank
Jack looked up and around, the room now soundless and cold, although whether it was from within or without he could not be sure. And then he noticed, Sue’s head on his shoulder, Bobby’s presence nearby, and his friends and team members gathered around. Cold melted, and where there should have been sadness, there was a comfort. A new found peace, that needed to be shared. “Mrs. Engle… let me tell you a story about your husband…” he began.
Happy Halloween
Fade Out
Standing on the steps of the Engle’s house, Jack longed to be back in Sue’s bedroom with her in his arms. As much as he wanted this case over, this interrogation was not one he particularly looked forward to. The man had saved Sue. However, his son was now in custody. The company he was a part of was now in jeopardy and Engle was riddled with guilt. Their appearance and questions, while not unexpected, would be another blow. Still, they needed his help. There were many unanswered questions and Engle had mentioned reports last night in the hallway. And while Annis had continued to babble to the psychiatrists and agents assigned to him, a clear inside take on the case was necessary.
Knocking on the door, Jack exchanged brief looks with Bobby, Sue, Myles and D. Door opening, a slender, well dressed woman stood tall before them. Noting the ring on her finger, Jack took a deep breath. “Mrs. Engle?”
Seeing her nod, D stepped forward, showing his badge. “FBI. We are sorry to bother you. I am afraid we need to ask you a few questions.”
“Of course.” Stepping backwards into the hallway leaving the door ajar for them and turned right into another room.
Entering the house, Myles took a quick glance around. Well appointed and spacious, Engle had done well for himself. This was going to be difficult on the entire family. Shutting the door he followed Jack after Mrs. Engle. The den when she now stood waiting was soft in hue, a stark contrast to their purpose.
“Please sit.” She gestured, and waited before seating herself in the delicate chair between the two sofas.
Sue sat cautiously on the couch, near to Mrs. Engle, with Jack on her other side. She was grateful for his presence. Even with the team, and Levi, she was uneasy. The man had saved her life, but she had come so close to losing it. Still, Mrs. Engle’s appearance seemed Her heart went out to his wife. “Mrs. Engle. I am not sure you are aware…” she began.
“You’re deaf.” Mrs. Engle interrupted, her eyes now up, wide and focused on Sue.
Jack braced, and could see the others do the same. “Is that a problem?” he asked. Most people never mentioned Sue’s differences, or chose to ask in a round about manner. Mrs. Engle’s statement had placed the entire team off guard.
“My husband, right before, he was upset. He asked me about how I felt about,” she paused and appearing flustered “people like you. I don’t know any. He explained Hans was involved in some hate group.” Her voice faded and she looked to her right and the collection of pictures there.
“Can we see your husband?” D asked quietly.
Mrs. Engle picked up the picture closest to her, handing it to Jack. The face of the man in the hallway smiled back at him from in front of a Christmas tree. Hearing Sue’s sharp intake of breath he glanced at her. Her face now pale, he placed his hand on her hers, his face a question. From the corner of his eye, he could see the others now focused as well. “Sue?”
“He was the one in my apartment that night, when I left. He told me how and where to find Susan. I don’t know why I followed his instructions, but he seemed so upset.” She said quietly.
Giving Sue’s hand a squeeze he nodded. It made sense. Having found out what Annis was up to, Engle must had gone after Sue three nights ago, wanting to tip her off. He had tried to save her twice. Jack looked up at Mrs. Engle. “I think we really need to talk to him.” Jack urged softly.
“My husband killed himself, Halloween night. The funeral was today. He left me this note.” Mrs. Engle broke into tears, pulling a crumpled note from her pocket and offering it in front of her.
Staring at the paper in disbelief, Jack met eyes with each of the others. They had seen Engle, Sue had obeyed him, and he and Bobby had talked to him. Engle told them he had switched the bottles at Reinde, if he hadn’t had done that, Sue would not be here now… Taking the note from her shaking hand, Jack unfolded it slowly. With Bobby leaning in from one side, and Sue close on the other, he still felt an uneasy wave sweep through him. Sue was now shaking. Placing his hand on her knee, and exchanging looks with Myles and D, he read…
My wife,
I have lived on this earth these fifty-four years, and yet tonight I find myself with no life to cling to. The spirit and soul I believed was in me have fled. I thought myself to be a man of deep humanity, a part of something wonderful that would save many lives. We are all of the same family on this earth, our presence here merely a fleeting moment. And what we do with that generous gift is a choice that we must take with us to the next one. My gift wasted, I find I can no longer live with the knowledge that some lives have been taken during my journey.
Please forgive me for leaving you. While I cannot set right what I have allowed to go wrong, you still have a chance. I ask you consider, in my memory your gift, your day and your life. I shall miss you.
Your devoted husband,
Frank
Jack looked up and around, the room now soundless and cold, although whether it was from within or without he could not be sure. And then he noticed, Sue’s head on his shoulder, Bobby’s presence nearby, and his friends and team members gathered around. Cold melted, and where there should have been sadness, there was a comfort. A new found peace, that needed to be shared. “Mrs. Engle… let me tell you a story about your husband…” he began.
Happy Halloween
Fade Out
Oh, my...what a twist! Love it -- an absolutely perfect ending to a GREAT story! 
Especially loved getting inside Jack's head at the end of this, seeing things and feeling the emotions from his perspective. You are so in touch with him!!!
Brilliant writing, Jen! Fantastic!!! Brava!
Especially loved getting inside Jack's head at the end of this, seeing things and feeling the emotions from his perspective. You are so in touch with him!!!
Brilliant writing, Jen! Fantastic!!! Brava!
Horray!!!! Loved it! 
So there was a ghost! I just had the wrong man picked out - heehee.
Great twist and wonderful ending. Thanks for sharing your Halloween tale.
Great twist and wonderful ending. Thanks for sharing your Halloween tale.
what a fantastic twist and ending!
Outstanding story! So much emotions and the end was just great...
Wow, I was half way through this post and my husband came home for lunch and then a friend stopped by...arrrggghhh!!!
Anyway, just finished reading it all the way through.
What an interesting, intriguing and amazing twist. Hopfully knowing the truth will give his wife comfort and continue to bring peace to the team and to Sue. Just gotta say, I love Jack and Sue in any season, any setting, any situation.
Great Halloween sorry, Jen...thanks for sharing it with us.
Anyway, just finished reading it all the way through.
What an interesting, intriguing and amazing twist. Hopfully knowing the truth will give his wife comfort and continue to bring peace to the team and to Sue. Just gotta say, I love Jack and Sue in any season, any setting, any situation.
Great Halloween sorry, Jen...thanks for sharing it with us.
Wonderful ending, Jen! I loved the way you went about revealing the fact that Engle was a ghost...nicely done. 
As for the scene that came before the conclusion...there's not much more to say other than I, too, just love the way you write Jack and Sue together....the tenderness and the love...beautiful!
This story was a bit of a departure for you, but I really think you did a fantastic job with it!
As for the scene that came before the conclusion...there's not much more to say other than I, too, just love the way you write Jack and Sue together....the tenderness and the love...beautiful!
This story was a bit of a departure for you, but I really think you did a fantastic job with it!
Absolutely fantastic Jen. You had me gripped right to the last word! Fabulous!
What A great fanfic!
I loved the whole fic! Keep up with the good work, and i look forward to reading your future fics.
I loved the whole fic! Keep up with the good work, and i look forward to reading your future fics.
Wow - I missed a lot! Jen, what an amazing story - it was superb! So glad I got to read the last few posts in one go - especially liked them waking up together!! As I'm late joining the party, can I possibly just say 2 words? Ditto. Thanks!!
Wow, what an unexpected twist!! I don't know how you came up with it, but I won't question it. I am looking forward to more of your wonderful works!
WOW! I so did not expect that twist! And then I thought...wait, this is Jen, so OF COURSE I should expect some twists! You get me every time, Jen....I always enjoy your stories, every twist and turn. LOVED the j/s moment...you write them so well. 
Can't wait to see what you come up with for your next story because this one was awesome!
Can't wait to see what you come up with for your next story because this one was awesome!
Another great Gershwin story closed and complete from cover to cover.
Great work! I loved this story.
I'm not one for Halloween and creepy, scary stuff like that....but this story was great!!
Great work! I loved this story.
I'm not one for Halloween and creepy, scary stuff like that....but this story was great!!
That was great! And I loved that we got a ghost anyway, just not the one we expected! Great job, Jen! I know this story was a new kind of effort for you, but you did a wonderful job all the same. You have this great tone that shows through, no matter what you write.
:eek jaw drops: 
Do we have a roller coaster emoticon?? My what a ride that was Jen! 
I am glad I read it in one sitting or I would probably have nightmares tonight. 
I just love how you brought out the tenderness and love between Jack and Sue 
All the other characters too. Story well done! I have to say I hate Halloween and almost wasn't going to read the stories because of possible icky creepy weird stuff, but I have been happily surprised by all the great stories!
I didn't think there be a real ghost. 
I loved the warm fuzzies. I can't wait for your next story.
I loved the warm fuzzies. I can't wait for your next story.
I'm laying in a puddle before my computer from the previous scenes unable to really experience any chills from that last scene. Okay, maybe I felt a few chills but they only lifted me up slightly from the floor. I'm still a giant mess unable to sit but I did find the strength to type a great big THANK YOU!
OMG!!! that was sOoOoOO good! so many warm and fuzzies but also some freaky moments just a right mix! i loved it! i even got the chills sometimes which never happens to me! i give you two thumbs up!!!
but also some freaky moments just a right mix! i loved it! i even got the chills sometimes which never happens to me! i give you two thumbs up!!!
Awesome! Just the right amount of suspense and fluff.
Please right more please good job awsome script I love how clase jack and sue are 
keep up the good work
keep up the good work
Jen, I just read your story - what a wonderful tale!! Scary, creepy and a ghost to boot!!
Thank you for sharing your talent with us!
Joy
Thank you for sharing your talent with us!
Joy
hi to al the members,
I am not active me,ner but I read all yuor stoires one by one and thomk that you are all fabolous wriiters!!!!!!!!!!!!
I hope keeping on this way.
Irene (mlta)
I am not active me,ner but I read all yuor stoires one by one and thomk that you are all fabolous wriiters!!!!!!!!!!!!
I hope keeping on this way.
Irene (mlta)
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