Crescent Bay
Prologue
Summer Camp
There is a slight chill in the morning air as the buses pull onto the stone drive of Camp Gitchigumi.
As the teen passengers disembark, they are directed to stand fast next to the bus until a headcount can be taken. After all teens are accounted for, they are asked to assemble near the pagoda.
"Welcome campers. I am Patrick Gregory. You may call me Patrick."
"And I am Courtney Williams. You may call me Courtney."
"We will be your camp counselors this summer. We have plenty of activities arranged, so hopefully you will each find something that interests you. I know some of you, and look forward to meeting the rest of you."
"I, too know some of you, look forward to sharing a great camp with all of you," Courtney added.
Patrick continues, "Will the following campers please move off to my right. You have been chosen as the peer leaders for this summer. Molly Gregory, Ruby Lewis, Boris Michaels, Stormy Riddle, and Anthony Stark. The peer leaders will reside in this cabin with the counselors. Also joining them will be Axel Lothario."
"Every camper has been assigned a cabin, so if you will each come forward, we will give you your assignment and direct you to your cabin. I have the boys' and Courtney has the girls' assignments. If you did not get assigned with your buddy or friends, please don't fret. You will have plenty of time to spend together this summer.
"We'll give you all a chance to get settled and then meet back here at fifteen hundred hours. At that time we'll go over the rules and the basics of camp. We will do everything in our power to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable camping experience.
Patrick and Courtney greet each one as they file forward to receive their assignment. The teens huddle with their friends to compare camping arrangements.
After the cabin assignments have been handed out and the campers directed to their cabins, Patrick and Courtney turned to the peer leaders.
This will be the last summer before these teens begin high school. A new life experience awaits them when this summer is over. One last time they can be top dogs with their peers, then they will become the bottom of the heap - freshmen.
Molly Gregory, Patrick's younger, and only, sister. She was the baby of the family, spoiled and protected, until, at 15, her younger brother, Eric, was born. Having a stable home life, Molly is quite charismatic and can easily get along with most people she meets. Being athletic, she has tried out for the high school cheerleading squad and been accepted . She finds it difficult, as do the other cheerleaders, to address the coach as Courtney.
Ruby Lewis, a rebel, has never had any use for school or homework. Although she comes from a very loving family, she prefers the loner life. A girl from the in crowd called Ruby a "loser" at school, and everyone gossiped about it! Ruby's reputation seriously suffered and not much could be done to quell the rumors. As a result she has few friends to boast of. She is very excitable. Being mean-spirited has landed her in the company of some less than desirable companions. She has found art to be a creative outlet for her anger and finds it comes quite natural to her.
Boris Michaels: nerd, geek, techno-guru. He is a whiz when it comes to computers. His genius allows for ease in problem solving. The harder the puzzle, the more enjoyable he finds it. He has a natural aptitude for repairing broken electronics and has been known to upgrade a few objects around the house. Boris is quick to dismiss any inquiries into his family life, as most would find the "uniqueness" a bit much to swallow. Both parents are involved in local crime.
Stormy Riddle comes from an unstable background. Her parents are not supportive of their children. Because of her family life, she finds it impossible to find humor in anything. Having spent a lot of time with her father, Stormy has discovered a natural aptitude for repairing objects around the house. Having seen her parents' relationship deteriorate and her mother succumb to depression has made her a stalwart person. She is less likely to panic in extreme situations. She loves to get away from it all by finding a secluded spot to fish.
Anthony (Tony) Stark, a local athlete, is involved in many sports and can probably be found at the gym. When he performs exceptionally well, his teammates chant "Hank the Tank," a nickname given to him by his father. Coming from a military background, he is known to be extreme in almost all he does. He does not like to lose, although displays great sportsmanship when he does. He is not quick to panic. Being very social, he has been known to attract the girls. Although he is quick to engage in conversation, he is holding out for that one special girl.
Over the weeks, the camp was alive with activity. Classes were provided in one of the old favorites, arts and crafts. Many took part in activities such as painting, basket weaving, kite building, and pottery.
Many participated in the numerous sporting events that took place. Competitions were held in swimming, foot races, biking and volleyball. Recreational sports were also available such as, football, baseball, volleyball and soccer.
The big event every year is the fishing derby. Each of the cabins chooses a representative to participate in the derby. This year's participants were Molly Gregory, Steve Harevy, O'Ren Ishi, Jayne Madison, and Jon Thompson. The winner this summer was Jon Thompson.
Throughout the summer, relationships have been establish; rekindled; strengthened, and even dissolved.
Molly and Tony created a special bond;
Ruby met Boris through his brother Axel, whom she began to hang out with;
Molly and Stormy renewed their friendship after a long hiatus. They had know each other as children, living just a few houses away from each other on the same street;
It was a summer to remember for five Peer Leaders. Never in their wildest dreams did they ever think they meet other teens from different backgrounds and begin to form friendships with them.
Will they be able to strengthen these friendships, or will they drift apart, going back to their respective cliques.
End Boris
The Big Game
The year of the (CBC) Crescent Bay Cougars!
Tony enjoyed high school mostly because he was good in sports.
Three years had past and Tony was in his last year of High school, every year Crescent Bay high would get close to winning the state championship but they never went all the way.
This year seemed different; this year the Crescent bay Cougars only lost one game this season, the very first game they played, however they won every game afterwards. If Tony and the Cougars were going to win state it would have to be now.
The school sprits were high; everyone in school was thinking this would be the year of the Cougars; however they were playing the top team, the undefeated Riverview wildcats.
The night before the big game the coach had spoken unto the team:
OK Cougars! This is it! I want everyone well rested for tomorrow’s game, today we are Cougars, and tomorrow we will be state champs!
Tony went home and finished his homework; after his homework was done he talked with his father.
Tony: “Dad I know you want us to win and”.. before he could finish his father interrupted.
Hank: “Son all I ask is you do your best, I am very proud of you and proud to have you as a son”
They talked for about an hour before Tony left to see Molly.
Tony arrived at molly’s only to find out she was not home so he went to Stormy’s house to see if Stormy knew where Molly was.
Tony: “Have you seen Molly?”
Stormy: “No Tony, I have not seen Molly since we left school.”
Tony and Stormy talked for a bit.
Just as Tony was getting ready to go home Molly showed up at Stormy’s home.
Molly: “Hi Tony, Hi Stormy.”
Stormy:”Hi Molly I was just talking to Tony about tomorrow’s game.”
Tony: “I must say I’m a little freaked out."
Tony: “Anyone seen Boris or Ruby? I wanted to talk to them before tomorrow’s game.”
Stormy:”No I have not seen them but they will be at the game tomorrow, you should get some rest Tony you have a big day tomorrow. I have to go in now and finish my homework; we are driving up there early tomorrow, Good luck.”
Tony: “Good night Stormy.”
Molly: “Night stormy I’ll see you at the game tomorrow."
Stormy went into the house to finish her homework
Tony looked at Molly “wish me luck tomorrow” he asked of Molly.
Molly: “you don’t need any luck you’ll be fine.”
Tony: “this is my last year of high school it’s now or never, well I’m going home to get some rest.” And with that said he kissed Molly goodnight.
The day of the game!
Coach: “Today we do or die, you walking onto this field as Teenagers but win or lose you will walk off this field as men. Yes I know you all rather be playing this game at Crescent bay high and being in Riverview stadium and hearing the crowed cheering for them is not the greatest!”
Coach: “But you shall overcome this. Yes! They are the wildcats! But we are the mighty Cougars! We will defeat them! Now go show them what we are made of!
Both teams rushed on the field screaming and chanting. The crowed cheered very loud; to Tony it was as loud as thunder.
During the first half of the game neither team was able to score, both teams played the game like pros, neither team wanting to give an inch of the playing field to the other.
The wild cats finally got within field goal distance.
“We need to push them back” Tony shouted, but the roar of the crowed drowned him out and gave momentum to the Wildcats.
The Wildcats; seeing they could push no further went for the field goal and made it.
The score was now 3 to nothing, in favor of the wildcats. The next few minutes the cougars were unable to score during their next few possessions neither were they able to get within field goal range to tie the game.
2 minutes left to play and the Wildcats was in possession of the ball. All they had to do was run the clock down to win the game. Now 1 minute left, Molly heart was racing it looked like it was over, 30 seconds left and the Wildcats still had possession of the ball.
The Wildcats through a long pass, caught it, and running for the touchdown, the only one there to stop him was Phil, with a sharp turn Phil hit him so hard it knocked the ball from his hand.
Tony quickly grabbed the football and ran for his life, Molly jumped high into the air shouting "GO! Go Tony Go!"
Needless to say Tony made the touchdown and the Crescent Bay Cougars won the state championship 6 to 3!
End Tony
Beach Party
My parents are such a drag. Since High School will be ending next year, (thank goodness) they want me to come up with a favorite memory of mine for the graduation party Mom has planned.
A favorite memory? High School was the biggest waste of my time. My grades aren’t going to be winning me any scholarships. I have no real friends to speak of. The kids I do hang out with aren’t exactly friend material. Stupid, snotty girls at school talk about me behind my back. They all think I am a loser, but I could care less what they think. I loathe the thought of even attending my graduation. I have been begging Mom to just let me stay home; she is too proud of her baby and blah blah blah.
I guess thinking back on the years; I have had some good memories. Summer Camp was pretty fun. I did meet some interesting people and rekindled some old “acquaintances”. The counselors put Boris, Molly, Tony, Stormy, Axel and I together. Axel was a boy that I spent the most time with that week. He was cute, funny and a bad boy. Perfect combo. So, I guess that wasn’t such a bad memory.
Oh, yes…one memory that stays etched in my memory is this Beach party we had. How can I forget that night? Axel and I had become close friends throughout the year. He asked me if I wanted to go with him to the party. I accepted happily. We spent most of the night chatting. He looked so cute in the moonlight.
I was happily surprised when he took my hands and held them. Then he kissed me under the stars. It was so perfect. I didn’t want the night to end. He then asked me if I wanted to go out with him. Of course I said “Yes”.
The rest of the kids had their own fun at the party. Boris was teaching Stormy how to play Chess; she seemed to enjoy the game and had fun with Boris.
Molly and Tony were playing a game of catch on the beach. Everyone once in a while they would steal a kiss under the stars as well.
Towards the end of the night we all gathered around the fire pit and talked about our various plans after school. Tony had plans to join the Army after graduation. Molly seemed a bit sad by this bit of news, but coming from a military background, she was proud of Tony for his actions. Boris had mentioned that with Axel moving out with their cousin Kale. He would be moving to another house with his parents. He told us that he would be studying computer programming.
Boris and I shared a knowing look about his computer prowess. Molly would be traveling to Europe to study photography. I knew she’d be successful. Boris asked Stormy what she was planning. She looked confused and told us she was still unsure. She said she would probably take a class here and there and make her money fishing and the like.
I told her it was alright, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to pursue a career in art or music. I reassured her we still had time; this was only our junior year.
I forget who had busted out the marshmallows but the boys had a time firing them up. Poor Axel burnt his but ate them anyway.
We sat chatting for a good portion of the night. It was nice to be able to sit with these five kids and talk like friends without the pressures of what our other friends would think. I sat hoping that our senior year would be just as memorable as this year had been.
End Ruby
Career Day
I went to go look for my dad, to remind him that Career Day was in fact today. He seems to "forget" things that are not important to him. But before that, I made sure Sunny was fed and dressed for the day. Before the crack of dawn of each weekday morning, I get my baby sister fed and clothed before Davy the babysitter comes by and take over. Sure he could do all of those things, but I like to spend time with her, something I make sure she has, because I never did. So, after all was said and done, I found my dad in the dining room and gave him a friendly reminder about attending Career Day and to talk to my peers about where he works and what he does, in detail. I for one thinks being a Handyman is quite cool and soon he will have his own business!
Anyways, Dad said he couldn't make it to my school today because he got a call this morning for some work over at the local stadium. I asked if he could cancel it this one time, but he went on and on about when a job is available, it is unwise to let go of it. Especially when he may not have work for a few weeks at a time. It wasn't like we were hurting for money, I thought to myself. I was very upset and I made sure he knew it....He could have done this one thing for me.
During third period, through lunch, fourth and fifth period, Career Day was held in the room where dances, and other events usually took place. We, as in Molly, Tony, Ruby, Boris and I decided to meet there during our lunch break. There were many other students, mostly Seniors there inquiring about the different jobs available and what training and or schooling was needed to get hired. Tony went straight to the "Join the Army" booth, with Molly by his side. He asked many questions, and signed up. I looked around but didn't see anything of interest. Ruby then told us she has made up her mind and will be attending a school for arts to improve her painting skills. She does indeed paint beautiful abstracts.
Behind me I heard a bunch of giggling and noticed a few of the cheerleaders asking Molly's brother Jacob, one of our math teachers, many questions about his part-time profession as an auxiliary policeman. I over heard him make clear that auxliliary police are usually the reserves for the police force and that sometimes, depending on where you work, you may or may not carry arms and that some may or may not get paid, but instead, volunteer their services. But these girls were totally flirting with him and not interested in becoming auxiliary police women. Must've been the uniform.... he does look good in it. Okay, he is handsome too.
The poor nurse standing next to him hardly had anyone to talk to about her career because Jacob was getting all the girl's attention. While I chuckled about the spectacle before me, Boris nudged me to point out a few other careers I should get into, since I was the one who was undecided in what I wanted for my future. I was not interested in becoming a Sous Chef, Nurse, Fireman and or Journalist. But, Boris didn't point any of those things out, he mentioned careers that were not here at the fair. Such as, adventurer, explorer and or a commercial fishermen since I seem to take risks, "collect things" by rummaging through wealthy people's trash and fishing. Some rich people throw away good stuff I can sell for a small profit. Also I may journey to far away lakes to catch rare fish for our local grocer. I always make sure to be home by 5p.m.
Ruby grabbed mine and Molly's hand and dragged us toward one of the tables. Her mother stood behind the one we were pulled to, while she was setting up her spot. She brought out small household objects from a medium sized box and set them on the tabletop. Afterwards, as Tony and Boris joined us, saying their hello's to Ruby's mother, she went on to tell us she was a homemaker, but also does fun crafts on the side. Some of the crafts she did was beading, or taking a picture frame and adding pretty little faux gems around it and or needle work. Some of it, she sells. I guess we all know where Ruby gets her creativity from. While she continued explaining the ends and out of needle work, my attention was turned towards the staircase, where I heard the oh so familiar sounds of rattling, and jingling of a loaded tool belt.
Sure enough, standing there was my father. My heart went to my throat as he looked at me. I'm not sure what he was thinking or feeling, but it had to be along the lines of caring. I giggled to myself because my dad is weird. But people say I am too. It reminds me of the apple on the ground and something about the tree it fell from.
He came towards me and I to him and we embraced. He said he was on his lunch break and that a few guys were going to cover for him. I was so happy and knew my father, with his awesome handy skills will be a hit for those who has a knack for fixing things. My very good friends were with me the whole time.
Them being there, increased my love for them. I have a very good feeling we will all be very good friends in our future as well. I am still undecided in what I want to do. I will take local classes and gather more information on adventuring and being a commercial fisherman.
End Stormy
Senior Prom
If someone had asked my four years ago who I would be sharing a limo with for senior prom, I would never have guessed the truth. I've always been a social person and athletic to boot so it seemed natural to go out for cheerleader in junior high. Of course it helped that I'd been in gymnastics for years as well. As a result though, I lost a childhood friend. Stormy and I didn't really talk at all for almost four years - which is difficult considering we rode the same bus and live on the same street. But that summer at camp - we started talking again and it was great to have her back in my life. I didn't realize how much I missed her in my life. That summer I made other friends as well, people I'd gone to school with and even lived surprisingly close to and yet had barely known at the time. And now - I'm going to Prom with them! Told you I would have never guessed!
Stormy, Ruby and Ranna - Boris's date - arrived at my house each carrying garment bags and accessories. Stormy lived only two houses down and Ruby lived around the corner so our street, and as a result my house, we the most central meeting place for everyone.
"My mother tried to do my hair as I left the house." Ruby said looking annoyed as she stomped into my room.
"Your hair looks great." I said encouragingly. Ruby and I were friends now but we'd had a rocky start and still had our moments. She took issue with my bright and sunny attitude I think.
"Very nice." Ranna piped in. None of us knew Ranna that well but since she was Boris's date, I wanted to include her as much as possible.
I could hear my mom opening the door to admit someone - it had to be one of the guys - so I hurried everyone through the finishing touches of getting ready. This should have been a quick procedure but we're talking about four girls about to go to senior prom! So the guys had to wait.
It was just as well because Ruby's date, Axel, was late. Boris and Kale just shrugged when we started to ask them if they knew what was keeping him. 'Not my brother's and/or cousin's keeper' I think is the expression.
While we were waiting Stormy and Kale were having some sort of spat from what I could tell. Stormy looked upset and Kale just looked irritated. I pulled Tony aside and snuggled in his arms. I had every intention of enjoying tonight but there was still a part of me that looked toward the future with a degree of sadness. Prom was the beginning of the end so to speak and Tony and I were both going different directions - like thousands of miles of different directions. As if sensing my thoughts, Tony pulled me closer to him.
"The limo is here!" my dad called out from the front room. Axel still wasn't here and Ruby looked like she was on the verge of a panic attack. My mom ushered us out the door to greet the limo while whispering soothing words to Ruby. I'm not sure if it was what she said or the fact that Axel was leaning against the limo with a cocky look on his face - but Ruby calmed down by the time we were on the front lawn. Mom - being a mom - lined us all up in front of the limo and tried so hard to get us all to look forward and smile.
It didn't work. Ruby started to look freaked again...about what I'm still not sure, but it caused Tony to look at her as my mom snapped the picture. At the same time Stormy and Kale were still at odds with each other and Ranna was trying not to look at them.
In spite of all the pre-prom jitters and emotion, the moment we all arrived in the ball room none of it mattered. One of the early songs - a dance staple - was something akin to the Chicken Dance. Sadly I think I was the only one doing the chicken dance.
We all danced and partied until our feet wore out and half the senior class had disappeared for whatever post prom parties they were going to.
The photographer made the final call for prom pictures and none of us had gone yet so we reluctantly left the dance floor.
Tony and I went first - of course Stormy made some comment diverting our attention at the last moment but no one realized that until we got the pictures back later.
Ruby and Axel
Stormy and Kale - their earlier problems seemingly resolved.
Boris and Ranna
Using some persuasion (and filling out an order form for a full package) we convinced the photographer to do one last picture of the five of us. Our dates willingly stepped aside so we could have our group shot. When the picture came in, I gave a copy to each person.
"Tony, Molly, Ruby, Stormy and Boris at Senior Prom"
Four years ago, I didn't really know these people. Now I'm not sure how I will live without them.
End Molly
Chapter 2
A crowd had gathered behind the police tape that lined the river bank. Curious onlookers, concerned towns people, even a few folk from the outer swampy area strained to see.
But there wasn't much to see yet. A pair of divers had entered the water almost a hour before and the only thing anyone on the surface could see was the occasion ripple or bubbles. Local cops milled about anxiously. They'd already had one murder that was unsolved - the thought of another one in their small community terrified them. But more than that, the body that the divers were looking for may be one of their own. What if it was? What if it wasn't?
I knew all the cops standing around the bank. He'd worked closely with Felicia enough to know her co-workers; I'd had drinks with him before and had been to the annual Christmas party a few times even. But I hung back from them. They'd looked my way a few times but since I was flanked by other agents, they'd made no move to join me or invite us to join them. For the moment, that was fine.
72 Hours Earlier
"I don't give a damn about that!" I shouted at his boss. Somewhere inside I knew I should just shut up and follow the rules but Felicia was missing, she'd vanished!
"You know I can't put you on this case Nick - it's too personal to you. A jury would..." Deputy Director Williams said calmly, rationally.
"Then don't put me in front of jury! I just want to help find her!" I leaned in closer and tried to calm myself. "Please" I said through gritted teeth.
Williams seemed to be considering for a moment. He stood and walked around his desk, placing a hand on my shoulder. "Agent Geirson, I think you need to take some time to..."
"Sir," I said, then paused, looking down at my hands. "I need to do something. Please - let me help find Felicia. I can't sit at home doing nothing..."
"I'll leave it up to Agent Ortega, he's heading the missing persons' team working on this." Williams said finally.
I nodded, content with decision. "Thank you sir."
Williams just nodded and returned to his chair behind his desk. I waited for a dismissal, anxious to track down Ortega. "Oh and Geirson?" Williams said as he settled back into his chair. He picked up the file that Felicia had assembled, with the notes I had made during my search. "Good work on this..."
"It was all Felicia's doing sir." I said thinking back to the night before, when she'd slid the file across to me. I'd been able to keep myself out of my aunt's case until that moment. I'd rationalized it all to myself - why I couldn't be involved - even if I'd wanted to be.
"Perhaps, but if she hadn't given it to you, we might never have made any progress." Williams said. "Alright, dismissed - Ortega's team is on the third floor."
"Thank you." I said. I walked quickly through the halls of the Bureau building and bypassed the elevator completely, taking the stairs two at a time until I reached the third floor.
A group of agents were crowded around a board, talking rapidly as I approached. Felicia picture was taped to the board and there were several scrawled annotations around her photograph and a map of Adelbrook.
"She left Shelby's Bar around 10PM." one of the agents said, another reached up to add it to the growing timeline.
"Ten thirty actually." I chimed in. The group turned toward me slowly and I saw a couple pairs of eyes look toward my ID badge.
One of them, I can only assume it was Agent Ortega, stepped forward. "And you know this because?"
"I was there." I said. "Nikolas Geirson, she was working my Aunt's murder case."
"Ah, did you two leave together?" Ortega asked.
"We left at the same time, but she went home; I went to my hotel room." I found myself looking at the picture of Felicia while speaking to them.
Ortega motioned to the other agent to make the appropriate note on the time line. "She was seen by one Sgt. Washington at the Adelbrook Police Station at eleven. She must have gone to PD after leaving the bar." he looked to me for confirmation but I could only shrug. "Right," he said, still looking at me with some suspicion. "She sent an email to Deputy Director Williams at 6:12AM, to confirm a meeting..."
"And then nothing." one of the other agents said as the agent with the dry erase marker continued filling in the time line.
"She often jogs before work, stops for coffee on the way back to her house. At a coffee shop called Soliel's Java." I offered.
All of the agents turned to look at me again. "What exactly was your relationship with Ms. Gianni?" one of them asked.
Ortega and his team were suspicious of me as I explained our relationship and Williams' decision regarding my involvement with the case. Despite his concerns, he ultimately agreed to let me assist - with the stipulation that I kept my mouth shut.
-----
The plane touched down in Adelbrook an hour later and the team divided in order to canvas the town quickly. Dalton and Avery went to Felicia's house, Jackson went to question the staff of the coffee shop to see if she'd come in and Ortega and I went to the police station to talk to Sgt Washington.
"Hey Nick" Washington said with a weak smile as we walked in. "I'm real sorry about your aunt...she was a nice lady. And Felicia..." his voice caught and I nodded, cutting him off.
"Felicia came in last night?" I asked, earning a sharp look from Ortega.
"Yeah, she said she wanted to file a couple things and do a little bit of research. She was in one of the offices for about an hour or so, then left." Washington said, walking us toward the office in question. "She was supposed to be here this morning at 8 and when she didn't arrive..." he trailed off, looking worried. "Well you know how she is." he turned away from us as sadness passed over his face.
I nodded and Ortega looked between us. "How is she?" he asked.
"She's never late...ever." I explained quickly. Before Ortega could shut me down I turned my attention back to Washington. "Did y'all try calling her?"
"Oh yeah, a few times; cell and home and pager. She never answered or called back. Then we called you guys - mostly cause we're a bit overwhelmed here with your aunt and a few other cases....needed some back up." Washington said, he looked over at Ortega "We have a pretty small force here, Felicia is one of only two detectives so..." he tried to explained and Ortega simply nodded in understanding.
Unfortunately we didn't find anything at the police station except confirmation of the time line. Dalton and Avery found no sign of struggle or forced entry at Felicia's house either. Jackson discovered she had stopped by for coffee a little after seven, narrowing the time line further. "So she went missing sometime between seven and eight in the morning." Ortega said as we settled around a table at the Adelbrook Police station.
"Where were YOU at that time?" Avery asked, looking my direction. He seemed to trust me less than Ortega did.
"I was in my office at the Bureau building. Gus saw me come in and Williams saw me this morning around nine." I explained, slowly stirring my coffee slowly.
Avery looked a little disappointed that I had such a firm alibi; they all looked a little disappointed actually but I suspected it was because we had nothing. It was as if she'd simply decided to walk away after getting her coffee that morning.
-----
The others were questioning everyone in Adelbrook as I approached my aunt's house. The crime scene tape was still across the door but I pulled it off and let it flutter away. I pushed the door open and took in the inside for the first time. There was a stain on the floor that hadn't been there before - my aunt was a meticulous cleaner - I imagined her standing beside me clucking about her floor being stained.
I took a wide berth around the blood stain and sat in a chair across from the fireplace. I remembered my aunt bent over the fireplace, starting a fire in the cooler winter months. The first winter I'd been here after my parents had died I'd scared her half to death shrieking when I saw the fire in the fireplace. We didn't have a fire at all that winter.
"What are you doin' here Nick?" a familiar male voice pulled me from my recollection.
I turned to see one of the cops...Jake I think it was. I shrugged and looked back at the empty fireplace.
"You shouldn't be here, it's still considered a crime scene." Jake said, taking a seat next to me. "Although I guess it's your crime scene now - I heard it was turned over to the Feds."
I nodded. "Yeah it has." I said, not looking at him. After several minutes I turned toward him. "Any thing on Felicia?" I asked, unable to think about my aunt any more. Jake just shook his head sadly. Time was slipping away from us - every hour meant it was more likely she was dead.
-----
With little to go on, most of the team left Adelbrook. Avery stayed behind to question more people. The trail was cold and they all knew it. "It's not that we're giving up..." Dalton explained to me on the plane ride back. "It's just that a small town like that...lots of suits tend to make people close ranks...even if they have nothing to hide."
"Right" I said unconvinced. It felt a lot like quitting, not that we had any leads to follow.
She'd been missing for almost three days when the call came in. "Nick?" It was Jake's voice on the other end.
"Yeah it's me. What's up?" I asked, rubbing the sleep from my eyes with my free hand.
"We found something..." he sounded distressed as he said it and tried to explain in halted speech what had transpired.
"Wait, Jake - did you call the Feds?" I interjected.
"Aren't you the Feds?" he said confused.
I could have almost chuckled. "Yeah, I am...I meant Ortega..." I told him to continue and jotted down notes as he told me about some kids stumbling over something at the river bank. "Okay, we're on our way." I said running from my office. "Come on!" I shouted to Ortega and the other agents. "I got a call from Jake..."
They were all confused but moved into quick motion as I gave them the details. Kids. Foot. River. Ortega was on the phone with Avery, who was still in Adelbrook, and putting things into motion.
I was jittery during the short flight back to Adelbrook, the idea that Felicia might be in that water had me ill. If she was missing, then I could convince myself she wasn't dead no matter how much time passed.
A crowd had gathered behind the police tape that lined the river bank. Curious onlookers, concerned towns people, even a few folk from the outer swampy area strained to see.
But there was nothing to see. The divers had resurfaced a few times, each with a flurry of activity from the cops and the crowd but they didn't come up with anything until after dark. By then, much of the crowd had dispersed thankfully. "They found something!" Washington called up in my direction. I made my way down the small slope and waited with the cops and the coroner as we waited.
A bloated body was brought ashore slowly and carefully. Around me people were talking about the clothes, the timing, the science of it all "...I would estimated she was in the water three to five days" one person said as he crouched over the body. "Similar height and build as Gianni" another said.
I knelt over the body and looked over it quickly, holding my breath so as not to breathe in the smell emanating from the body.
I didn't have to look long, I didn't even have to touch the poor woman to know. "It's not her." I said quietly. Everyone turned to look at me curiously, "It's not Felicia." I said standing up straighter and walking several feet away.
End Chapter
Chapter 21: Making a Fresh Start
"Stacia has turning into quite a little lady hasn't she?" I said with a laugh. Stacia was playing with Hannah in the backyard while Tessa, Sierra and I had a cup of afternoon tea.
"Yes she has." Tessa said with a look of motherly affection. She finished her tea and sighed. "But I think it's time we head on home."
Tessa poked her head out the back door and called for the girls while Sierra and I chatted about Luke and Sarah. They were both fond of each other; or it was obvious that Sarah was fond of Luke anyway. I could only assume from what Sierra said that Luke was also fond of Sarah - the boy rarely showed any outward emotion.
"Lance was just the opposite" she had confided in me one evening while they'd stayed with us. "Very prone to outbursts.." I'd handed her a tissue as her eyes welled with tears.
"Ma!" Sarah ran inside excitedly; pulling me from my memory. "Oh my Ma! You won't hardly believe it!"
Rachel fell in behind her and I saw her roll her eyes. I gave her a quick look of reproach before turning my attention back to Sarah. "Well tell me dearest!" I said with an encouraging smile.
"Ms. Isabelle asked me to write the little play we'll do at the picnic!" Sarah was practically jumping around as she told me. "Me! Oh Ma I'm so very happy!"
"That's wonderful Sarah! What will the play be about?" I asked.
"Oh dear I don't know! Can we go to into town so I can go to the library?" Sarah was now bordering on fretting.
Luke strolled into the house then and stood beside his mother. "I suppose" I said thinking about making a trip in a few days.
"Oh wonderful!" she bounced toward Luke and grabbed his hand happily. "Will you come with us? I would so love for you to be in the play as well!"
Sierra looked troubled then. "Sarah, Luke doesn't go to the town school, I don't think..."
"Oh but it's not a school play - I mean it is...but it's for the town picnic! And you are part of our town." Sarah cut her off. Luke, for his part, said nothing. "Come on Rachel!" she grabbed Rachel's hand with her free hand and kept a firm grip on Luke's and pulled them out toward the barn.
"Wait!" I called realizing she meant to go now; but it was too late; they were across the yard and Luke was already hitching the horses to the wagon.
Wesley came in looking confused and look to me for explanation. "Apparently we're going into town. Would you like to come?"
"I'd rather not" he said with a grin, holding out his dirty shirt. In fact most of him was covered in dirt and grime as he'd just come in from the field.
I smiled and nodded. "Well Hannah is painting," Rachel had bought Hannah her own paint set after Hannah had just about destroyed hers. Then she'd spent hours helping Hannah.
"And Alexander there needs to get to bed, can you..."
Wesley cut me off with a nod. "I think I can handle it. You go on with the girls." he said.
We made it to town with enough time for the girls to have a quick look around the library before closing. Rachel wanted to go over to the store but Sarah kept a firm hold on both her and Luke - insisting that she would need them both.
"What's HE doin' here?" a teen boy said, disgusted. I looked over toward the source of the voice and recognized him as one of the Flynn boys but couldn't remember his name. I was both proud and anxious as I watched my daughters close in ranks behind Luke, the source of the young Flynn's disgust.
Luke, who was never prone to emotional outbursts, looked at the boy with an almost blank stare on his face. The only reason I knew he'd heard the boy was because he was looking right at him.
Young Flynn started hurling all manner of disgusting words at Luke to provoke him but Luke didn't so much as flinch. I waited with stilled breath to see what would happen next, prepare to step in if need arose. When Young Flynn stepped forward, Luke quickly stepped into his path, between him and the girls and my heart swelled.
"Oh so that's what it takes, are they your wh..." Young Flynn leered.
He didn't have a chance to say any other horrible things as Luke screamed and lunged for young Flynn.
The two boys started brawling and I quickly pulled the girls back and then looked toward Sierra feeling helpless. "Luke no!" Sarah screeched, pulling against me to try to get to him.
It wasn't long before the boys broke it up, Mr. Flynn showed up and scowled in Sierra's direction as he took his boy home. Young Flynn had some quickly forming bruises and a few cuts.
Luke's lip had already begun to swell where young Flynn had gotten a hit in. The blood was already starting to clot though and he seemed mostly unscathed. His former serenity had returned.
Back at the homestead, Sarah went into nursing mode; though he wasn't really in need of much tending.
Luke barely flinched as she tended to his wounds. She knelt beside him and he stared into her eyes, although no apparent emotion crossed his face, I wondered what he was thinking as he gazed at her.
Sierra, on the other hand, was showing much of her emotion as she slumped against the wall. She was so tired and weary. Ever since Lance had died, she'd been forced to come into town more often. This shouldn't have been a problem except half the townspeople eyed her with distrust while most of the other half whispered about her behind her back. The fact that she'd been living with - as none of them wanted to believe that they were really married - a white man fueled their fire.
I moved next to her and put my arm around her shoulder. "I think we ought to move on Elizabeth. This town...there's just too much history."
"Oh no, they'll come around!" I said with more conviction than I felt.
Sierra shook her head. "No, no I don't think they will. You and Ms. Tessa seem to be the only ones around here that don't recoil from us. Somewhere else...." she looked over at Sarah and Luke and sighed. "We could make a clean start. Where no one knew us...."
"Oh Sierra." I said hugging her. She'd never been much for personal touch but over the intervening months, I felt like we'd become closer. "I do wish you would stay....but I understand."
Sierra and Luke left not long after and I sent the children up to bed. Alex, for some reason I imagine had to do with the candy Wesley had given him, was up later than he ought to have been. Wesley yawned and stood to go to bed. "Oh no you don't!" I said grabbing his arm and pulling him back onto the couch with me. "This." I pointed to Alex who was playing with his bear, "is your doing and you will stay up with the boy until he's ready for bed."
Wesley groaned and muttered protests until I snuggled into his arm. I fell asleep laying on his chest but he must have stayed up with little Alex because the next morning he was in his crib and I was tucked warmly into our bed.
-----
Sarah spent as much time as she could working on her little play. It was only going to be about ten minutes long and was to include a song of some sort so it didn't take her long to finish the script. Sierra was still talking of leaving town but in the mean time, Sarah claimed Luke's free time. She absolutely insisted that Luke was necessary to the play and no one could argue with her.
The morning of the picnic, Sarah was in a near frenzy as she paced the green meadow. More and more people had arrived and were settling in for the picnic but Sierra and Luke had not arrived yet. "Where is he?!" she cried at Rachel. I saw Rachel roll her eyes again as she shrugged.
Sarah corralled her sisters, her cousins and even one of the younger Flynn children toward the small area they'd selected to perform. At the last minute, Luke showed up and slipped in between her and Rachel. For a fraction of a second, I thought I saw him smile at her before his normal passive gaze returned. The little Flynn eyed him nervously for most of the skit but it went off without further problems. Catherine's triplet girls had beautiful voices and lend them to Sarah's song, wowing the crowd with their skill at such a tender age. I smiled at Catherine and she smiled back - one of the first I'd seen from her since John's death. I was so glad she'd stayed in Sheardin so far.
As the little play ended and the children returned to their own families, the gathered crowd clapped and cheered. I saw Luke garner several looks, but I noticed many of them seemed more curious than hateful. I looked around for Sierra and saw her lingering on the far side of the meadow, clearly weary of the time she'd spent with the towns people. I tried to wave her over but she either didn't see me or ignored me. Luke nodded to Sarah and then toward our family gathering before he left to join his mother. They left the picnic without eating anything.
Sarah, despite her successful play, was glum as we ate our lunch.
End Chapter
Chapter 8: Memories
I brushed past Erik in the hall and gave him a small smile. Two weeks had passed since James and I had...well since that day at the castle. Two weeks and I hadn't told Erik. In fact, I'd lied to him when he asked me how James was. Well it wasn't a lie so much as withholding the truth - but I kind of consider that lying.
I glanced back at him again and then made my way outside; the juniors were having an assembly to talk about the upcoming SATs, College Fair, Career Fair and so many other things. I'm pretty sure some of the staff thought we should all have our lives planned out by now - or at least before our senior year. Nai'a had gotten there early and I took the seat next to her, scooting down so I could prop my feet on the rail in front of me. "Hey" I said.
"Hey Ginny." Nai'a said giving me a smile. "You have that angst look on your face again."
"I do?" I said self consciously. "Wait...what is an 'angst look'?"
"Like you're fretting about something." Nai'a said. "You still haven't told Erik have you?"
I was beginning to really like Nai'a - aside from being a girl I could talk to - she was a very intuitive person. And she and Timothy had become friends - something he was in need of right now. "What? That James and I are broken up?" I asked even though I knew the answer. "No, I haven't."
"Girl, why not?!" Nai'a rolled her eyes at me. "It's so obvious you're both still...whatever. You just need to tell him. Cause that girl Meghan is trying awfully hard to get her claws in him. And then where will you be huh? You'll be free and he'll be dating someone and we'll repeat this whole cycle over again."
I grimaced at the thought of Erik and Meghan dating. I knew she was interested in him but I was pretty sure he wasn't interested in her. "Can we talk about something else?" I said, feeling like I was about to lose my lunch.
"Sure, that girl Veronica....what's the deal with her?" Nai'a asked. "I know she and Tim dated and all but there's more right?"
"Yeah, there's more." I said a little sadly. "Veronica, Todd, Tim and I have known each other since we were kids. Once we all got past the cooties phase, we were a group. It was always the four of us."
"And Veronica wasn't a total witch then?" Nai'a asked.
"Oh she was sometimes. Veronica has issues - has had for a while. She likes to be the center of attention and the rest of us usually let her." I paused to chuckle a bit. "Mostly because it was easier that way. But when she didn't get her way..."
"Tantrum?" Nai'a interjected when I paused.
"She could beat a three year old in the tantrum department."
"She sounds like a gem." she said sarcastically.
I smirked. "Yeah. She wasn't all bad. Most of the time she was a great friend. She would stick up for Timothy if others would pick on him," I looked over at her, "He was a scrawny kid and an easy mark for bullies that didn't take into account V, Todd and I."
"Anyway, even if we fought about something or she threw one of her tantrums, we always made up and the next day would be back at the playground playing together like nothing had ever happened." I smiled as the memories of those easier childhood days came to mind.
"So, what happened?" Nai'a prompted, bringing my focus back around.
"Middle school. Middle school happened." I answered. "Veronica realized that being able to hang out with the cheerleaders was the ticket to being popular. She's good too, just didn't actually care about the cheerleading. So she started hanging out with this girl named Britney - Brit was the only sixth grader to get on the squad and I guess Veronica figured if she was friends with Britney she could be friends with the rest of them."
"It was about that time that Timothy confessed his love for Veronica to me and I confessed my huge crush on Todd to Veronica..."
"You and Todd?!" Nai'a sputtered while laughing. "I'm sorry, I don't mean to laugh it just seems...."
"I know, this was before Erik mind you, and Todd was the boy next door - literally. We'd known each other forever and he was on the six grade football team and he was perfect in my eleven year old eyes." I said with a laugh.
"So Veronica planned this party - at my house mind you - and invited Britney and Bart and of course Todd. She didn't want to invite Tim - this is about the time she decided he was a little too nerdy for her upward mobility - but I'd insisted considering the party was at my house." I continued.
"Ohhh Bart, wasn't he the one..." Nai'a trailed off when she saw the pain that crossed my face.
"Yeah, same Bart." I said quietly. "We roasted some marshmallows, played on the playground some and danced some. Eventually we were all just hanging out by the fire pit my dad had lit for us and Britney suggested we play Truth or Dare." I said with a cringe.
Nai'a raised an eyebrow but kept her mouth shut so I could continue.
"Eventually it was Veronica's turn and she picked Bart. I've never really understood her motives behind this but she dared him to take me in the playhouse to kiss, with the lights off for five minutes. Bart was really cute and had a dark and broody thing going on but I was, of course, crushing on Todd so I was completely embarrassed when she made this declaration. I avoided looking at Bart because I was absolutely certain that my cheeks were going to be beet red but when I finally did, it was clear from his look that this prospect didn't appeal to him either."
"Oh no!" Nai'a exclaimed.
"Yeah he looked so annoyed and, of course, my face probably got even redder then." I said with a chuckle. "Bart sighed loudly before stomping toward the playhouse, leaving me to shuffle quietly after him. I wanted to smack Veronica for doing this to me - in front of Todd no less."
"So, did you and Bart kiss?" Nai'a asked, a look of anticipation on her face.
I laughed. "Um...no. Well not then anyway. The lights were off so none of the other could really see inside anyway. We stumbled toward the little couch and sat there - as far apart as we could manage - for a bit. Bart broke the silence first...'
'Ya know Ginny - um....we don't have to...' Bart trailed off and looked away awkwardly. 'I mean if you want to we could but....they won't ever know.'
"He was so awkward and clumsy! Nothing like the calm exterior he always showed at school. Of course we were eleven so I think everything at that age is pretty awkward and clumsy." I said with a chuckle. "Turns out he actually DID like me and he was upset because of the way things were happening."
"We talked the whole five minutes and even scooted a little closer together on the couch. He put his arm around my shoulders and I think he complimented my hair." I said trying to recall that night. "I blushed even more than - as if my face could get any more red! I was so happy the lights were out."
"He sounds so sweet." Nai'a said with a smile.
"Yeah he was." I said, sad again. "So the next day Veronica spread all these rumors around school that we'd done way more than really happened and Bart thought I'd spread them because I was the only one in there and then wouldn't talk to me for awhile. And then Veronica started dating Todd - who still had no idea I had any sort of crush on him."
"But Veronica knew you did!" Nai'a said angrily.
"Yeah well, Veronica is who she is." I said.
"But still! Gah she is a hateful crow isn't she?" Nai'a fumed for a moment. "But wait! You said that you didn't kiss Bart that night but you implied...." she grinned hopefully.
I laughed. "Yeah, after he decided that I did not actually spread those rumors - about a year later - we dated....well as much as any seventh grader dates. Ya know we sat at the same lunch table and walked together in the hall holding hands and went to a school dance together."
"He was very sweet and tender." I smiled, thinking about the night I'd gotten my first kiss.
"Was it fabulous? When you first kissed?" Nai'a had a dreamy look in her eyes as well.
"Was your first kiss?" I asked with a laugh. "It was sloppy and awkward - like everything else about that age."
"So what happened to Bart?" Nai'a said after she recovered from laughing. "He doesn't go to school here I don't think..."
I looked away from her across the football field where I saw staff setting up for the assembly. "He moved away the following summer." I paused as a few tears formed in my eyes. "And then he died. He was camping and drowned in a lake. His mom told my dad..." I explained before she could ask.
"Oh I'm so sorry Ginny." Nai'a said looking at her toes. The bleachers around us were quickly filling as more juniors filed out for the assembly and I watched as Principal Watts walked up to the microphone.
End Chapter
