All In A Days Work

All In A Days Work

Prologue

Grant Johnson stood outside his front door, going through his warm-ups just for his nightly jog. he took his last exercise, covered his ears with his earphones and turned his walkman to his favorite Mozart piece. Then he ran down his walkway and out onto the sidewalk, unaware of the danger this night held for him. He was being watched. Something unearthly was seeking out it’s prey for the night. Unfortunately it found what it sought. Grant Johnson!

Slowly and methodically and crouched close to the ground, hidden by the bushes and trees. It followed the unsuspecting man. Stalking and waiting, for the right moment to pounce on him and quenched it’s hunger.

It came sooner than then later. Grant came to a street corner and stopped, running in place and waiting for a car to go by. Just as it did. Is as quick as the beast snatched his life and body away. He never knew what hit him.

“What the hell! Did you see that?” The driver of the car yelled, bringing the car to a screeching halt. He had been looking in the rearview window at Grant, thinking how he should get in shape, as he went by and saw him disappear right before his eye.

“What?” His wife who had been slumped down in her seat and falling to sleep, asked half awake. The driver opened the door and got out, staring down the street in all directions, trying to convince himself he didn’t see what he had saw.

“There was a man standing on the corner over there, jogging I guess.” He answered his wife. She adjusted herself in her sleep, coming awake.

“And so?” She slowly straighten up in her seat, seeing her husband had exited the car and left the door open, allowing the cold air to come in.

“He’s gone. Just like that! It was as if he vanished in thin air!” He walked towards the rear of his car, still seeking out the runner.

“George! Get in the car! You’re creeping me out!” She called to him, fully awake and freezing form the cold, she turned around in her seat and peered through the back window. She had a very uneasy feeling coming over her. George obliged as he came back to the door.

“That was the weirdest thing. One minute he was there and with a blink of an eye, he wasn’t.“ George said, turning to his wife. He closed the door and drove away.

Lucky for him he had listened to his wife. Little did he know, he was going to join the man who he had moments earlier watched stand on the corner of the street, running in place. The beast turned and walked back to the deadman’s body and just that quick, took it away.

Chapter One

Today started out pretty much like any other day. The sun rose in the east. The birds song outside my window. I tired to ignore them by turning over in my bed a couple of times and covering my ears with the pillow.

But that didn’t work. The sun sent one of it’s beams through a partially opened curtain, slowly lighting up my bedroom. The final touch to let me know it was time to get up, was the alarm ringing like crazy on the nightstand next to my bed.

“Damn!” Was all I could say in answer to the beginning of my day. I turned over to it and slam my hand on the top of it, hitting the off button and shut it up.

I fell back on the bed, lying on my back and staring up at the ceiling. I had to get myself psyched up to get out of the bed, walk it to the bathroom and take a shower. Then get dress and go down to my office.

When the phone rung, I knew there would be know more procrastinating. I reluctantly turned over to my side once again, but this time was not to stop the clock, but answer the call that was coming in. I wished I hadn’t, this would prove to be the call from hell. making this the worst day of my life.

“Yeah!” I said, putting the receiver up to my ear. I’m not a morning person as you can see.

“And a good morning to you too.” The familiar voice came back at me from the other end.

“Hey Trace! What’s up?” I adjusted my attitude.

“Something big.” She answered. When Trace says something big, it usually means she tuned on the police scanner and overheard something.

“Been ease dropping on the scanner huh?” I semi teased her.

“Well! We’re in the law enforcement too.” She came back to me. Actually, we’re not.

“No Trace, we’re just lowly Private Dicks.” I reminded her.

“Hmmm! yours may be privy to you. But that’s not what they call mine.” She reminded me of the difference between her and I. Causing a sensation to flow over me.

Tracey stood 5’6”. Medium built, very athletic. More on the tomboyish. She had long raven hair she kept up in a ponytail and crystal blue eyes that looked right through you. She had the most beautiful olive skin.

“Don’t remind me. How well do I remember.” Oh yeah! I forgot to mention, we had a one night stand a few years ago when we first became business partners. It got complicated working together after it. I value her friendship more than anything. We decided to leave that part out of this relationship.

“Taker!” She warned.

“Alright! Alright! I want bring it up again.” Little does she knows, I think about that night every chance I get. The love she gave to me that night, will never be duplicated.

Another thing. Taker is my nickname, from my days back when I was a wrestler with the WWE! The Undertaker was my gimmick. I had met Tracey, who was a private investigator, while I was still wrestling. I needed her to do some work for me.

After I finally retired, I looked her up and told her that I wanted to become a private eye. She took me in without hesitation. We opened up our own office and been going strong every since. It was a good choice. I make up my hours and don’t have to be on the road.

“Okay! What you got?” I asked her, changing the subject.

“Meet me over at 5th and main. I’ll fill you in on it there.” She said and hung up. I stared at the receiver. I hate when she does that.

“She could have at least said goodbye.” I said and hung my phone up. I left the bed and went in to take that shower and get dress. Little did I know what meeting Tracey was going to do to this day.

Chapter Two

I showered and dressed. Then left my place, jumping into my silver SUV and headed out to meet Tracey. This had to be big. Normally she would tell me to meet her at the office. But there was something in her voice that told me this wasn’t the normal. I trusted Tracey’s instincts. She had been doing this for a long time. She followed in her father’s footsteps.

I drove up to the designated area. It was like a damn police reunion. Cop cars was everywhere. Cops and other law enforcement personnel were scurrying all over the place. There was an area blocked off with the usual yellow tape, marking the crime scene.

I pulled my vehicle up and parked in a little distant from the area. Didn’t want to bring too much attention to me being there or ruffle some feathers. I exited my SUV and searched for Tracey. I spotted her talking to one of the detectives. They were in a heavy conversation. I don’t know why it bothered me. It ain’t like were attached or nothing.

I started towards the two, when like instinctively she turned her head to me. She said something to the detective and made her way to me. I could see in her eyes so9methig was up.

“What’s wrong Trace?” I asked. She stared at me, trying to gather the right words to say.

“Nothing like we ever seen before, Taker!” Is all she could say and turned her head back to the yellow roped off area. I looked where she was looking, then around the area. This was one of those upscale neighborhoods. People stood outside in their yards talking and staring.

“A man was killed last night!” She said and began to walk towards my SUV, she reached in the back and took out a bottle of water form the cooler I always kept there. Then she turned her back to it, leaning against it for support. She uncapped the bottle and took a long gulp. I waited patiently, knowing that not much would upset her.

“It’s a mess over there. I was able to get in before forensic got here.” She looked up to me. I shifted my weight from one foot to the other, arms crossed over my chest.

“What did you see?” I asked, seeing she was trying to gather herself. She walked away from the SUV and took a long breath, turning quickly around to look at me.

“Blood and gore! Nothing left to identify him. It looks like a wild animal tore him to shreds.” She shook her head, frantic. I walked over to her and pulled her close. She was shaking.

“If that’s so, then Animal Services will be called in.” I pulled her away from me and looked her in the eye. She needed to calm down.

“They’re here and no animal did that Taker! I overheard them say it. No animal would do that!” She said. I felt the need to go see what had her so unraveled.

“Stay here! I’m going to do some snooping.” I told her, turned and walked towards the crime scene.

“Hey Taker!” The detective who had been talking to Tracey saw me coming and decided to intercept me.

“Hey yourself Hal!” I said and continued to walk by him. He made a mistake, I usually allow one. He grabbed my arm.

“You can nicely remove your hand from my arm. Or I’ll assist you.” I told him, staring from his hand to straight in his eyes. He could see that I wasn’t in the mood. He obliged me.

“Look Taker! As I told Tracey! You two have no business being here. Were conducting an investigation and you’re hindering it.” He threw some legal mumble jumble at me.

“Fine!” I said and turned, walking back to Tracey.

“What are we going to do?” She asked. I looked around and saw a woman covering her face with her hands crying. The police had her off to the side. I pointed to her. Tracey looked over to her.

“You think she’s someone important?” She asked.

“Maybe!” I said.

“Yeah! I think so too.” She said and eased her way over to where the woman was standing.

“Horrible thing to have happened.” A voice came up from behind me. A sultry voice at that. My head automatically, snapped in it’s direction. She was unusually beautiful. She stood about 5’10”, slender. Her eyes were aqua-blue. Long platinum blonde hair pass her butt. She was very intoxicating.

“Yeah!” I said, still taking her in. She had on this long black dress, that looked like she poured herself in it. It came to her calf. She had on black two inch heels. Which made her looked taller than her 5’10” frame.

“Taker!” Another voice came from behind me. A very familiar one. I looked around ot see Tracey running back to me. Then I looked back to see that the woman had left as quickly as she had appeared.

“What are you looking for?” Tracey asked coming up beside me. I looked up and down and around for the mysterious woman. She was nowhere to be found.

“You wouldn’t have seen me talking to anyone did you?” I asked, turning back to her. She looked passed me and shook her head.

“No! But I know who the woman is talking to the police.” She informed me.

“Let me guess! She is important. She’s a wife, girlfriend, daughter sister.....etc!” I said.

“Right! She’s his wife. She reported him missing when he didn’t come home from his usual jogging last night.” She said.

“So now there is a time frame when he was killed. Either when he left or on his way back home.” I began to stroke my goatee.

“Another thing! A neighbor reported that her dog was going crazy last night. She looked out the window and thought she saw a shadow disappear down the street. That’s when she reported a prowler. An even better time frame. It’s the same neighbor they found his remains.” She added. I looked over to her.

“Even better! Do we know what time she called?” I asked. She shook her head.

“No! But after they get finished here, I’m going to do some investigation myself.” She told me. I looked at her. She had that gleam in her eyes. The gleam that scares me.

“Yeah, but don’t you go doing anything stupid. I’m going to the office to see if we have some cases that need to be solve.” I told her and jumped into my SUV.

“You know me! I’m always careful.” She told me. I stared into her eyes. Gawd I love that woman.

“Yeah, but until the find out who or what did this. We need to be extra careful.” I reminded her.

“You’re right! I will!” She said, trying to ease my mind.

“Good! If anything happened.............” I stopped. She tilted her head to the side.

“If what?” She asked. I stared at her long and hard, then turning on my ignition. Drove away, leaving her standing there. Little did I know at that moment she got this chill that passed through her. She turned around, feeling as if she were being watched. But saw no one there.

Chapter Three

I made it to the office. Grabbed the mail from the mailbox and unlocked the door, letting myself in. Walked over to my desk, throwing the keys on top and walked around it taking a seat, while I thumbed through the letters.

Nothing but bills. I tossed the aside and picked up the phone, called up the answering service and got my messages. Just before I hung up a knock came at the door. I set the receiver down in the cradle and could see the silhouette on the other side of the window on the door.

‘Come in.” I called to them, leaving my seat from behind the desk. Just as I made it half way to the door, in walks the mysterious lady at the crime scene. I was curious as to how she knew where to find me.

“Hello! How di..........” I started. When she cut me off.

“I over heard the detective saying you were a private investigator. So I asked him if he knew where I could find you.” She explained. I don’t know, but this sounded fishy to me.

“Really? You just happened to come up to me, start a conversation. Come here to my office where you got information form a police detective as to where you could find me! I don’t know about that!” I replied. She shifted on her feet, clearly a little flustered with my comeback.

“Sir! I didn’t happen to walk up to you. I over heard the detective. That’s why I came to you, but I saw you were busy. So I decided against it. But later thought better. He gave me the information I needed, because I told him why.” She was getting a little excited.

“Okay! Okay! So tell me what you told him, to make him tell you where to find me.” I walked over to her and placed my hands on her shoulders to calm her down. She took in a deep breath and let it out just as quick. I directed her to a chair in front of my desk.

“What I told him that my brother has been missing for over a week. I have tired to get the police to search for him, but his trail has become cold. I thought maybe a good private investigator would have more time to put into finding him than the police.” She looked at me with those eyes. I sat back in my chair, listening.

“Alright! Sorry for being suspicious. A beautiful woman walks up to you out of the blue, then disappears. Only to show up on your front step leaves you wondering.” I explained to her. She smiled and nodded.

“I can see where you’re coming from. Can’t be too trusting now a days.” She said. Then she rose form her chair and walked aw small distance away from me, stopped and stood still as if contemplating something. Then she turned and looked at me.

“I can’t lie to you. The truth is, this is not the first murder like this one. My brother was killed in the same manner.” She stood staring at me as I sat froze in my seat. I should have stayed in bed.

Meanwhile on the other side of town, Tracey was making some pretty good progress. She was able to get to the wife of the deceased. From what she gathered, her husband would take his nightly jog after dinner around eight o’clock until nine. She had fallen asleep. She woke around twelve. He wasn’t home. She called the police to report him missing.

The neighbor said her dog was at the window barking and running around. She thought maybe it was a cat or someone passing by, so she didn’t pay much attention, thinking she would stop. But when she continuously barked, she went to the window to see what she was upset about. That’s when she saw the big shadow disappear out of her yard and down the street. She put that time about nine.

She made the call to the police to tell them what she saw. They came right over and searched outside her home. That’s when one of the policemen stepped in something gooey. Little did the know it was what was left of a man who would three hours later be reported missing.

Tracey headed back to her car. She noticed a man looking over at the scene pacing back and forth near his car. Her instincts told her to go over to him. The man was so busy looking, he never saw her approach him.

“Hi!” She said, walking up and standing by him. He looked over to her and half smiled.

“Hello!” He replied, then turned away form her.

“Bad stuff over there.” She said to him. He looked back at her and nodded his head.

“Yeah! Real sad. You can’t go out and do a innocent thing as jog, without getting yourself kill.” he said, running his hand over his face. Tracey tilted her head to the side.

“How did you know he was jogging?” She asked him. His head snapped towards her, then he attempted to get in his car. She gently grabbed his arm.

“Sir! If you know something, you need to tell it. Who knows who will be next.” She told him. He looked at her and then at her.

“I know nothing.” He said and snatched his arm from her grasp. He moved to get in his car.

“If you happened to remember you know something. Here’s my card. Call me.” She told him and handed him her card. He looked at it for a second then took it.

“And Sir! Make it sooner than later!” She told him as he left. Tracey watched him drive away, taking a note of his license plate. She turned and walked backed to her car, to meet Taker at the office.

Chapter Four

I was going over the information left by the mysterious beauty. Her name was Ulna Lansing. Her brother was Clay! They came here a couple of years ago from England. Very wealthy. He was an entrepreneur. Of what? She didn’t tell me. But thing did get a little heated when she got ready to leave.

“Well Sir!” She said as she stood from her chair.

“Just call me Taker! Everyone else does.” I informed her. She gave me this wicked smile and look. I felt a little awkward with what was going through my head. Then I walked form around my desk to escort her out. She stopped, paused for a moment then turned to me.

"Was there something else you wanted to tell me?" I asked, knowing there were something she was withholding from me.

"No! Just find the monster that killed my brother." She said and rested the palm of her hand on my left breast.

“I felt a surge of energy course through my body. Nothing like I had ever felt. It nearly took my breath away. I was lost for words.

She noticed how I was staring at her and began to get caught up in the heat of the moment. Maybe she was playing me and came here for this or maybe we just decided how interesting the other person standing in front of us. Then I broke the spell.

"So Ulna! I will be getting in touch with you when I look over the information you gave me and do some thorough snooping?" I told her, passing by her and heading for the door. She seemed to sigh softly and followed me.

"It’s hard to catch me. But I have your office number. I can you to see if you have more info." He thought about the things he could do to her body.

“Do you have a cell phone I can use that!” I went to go back to my desk and take down the number when touched my arm. I looked down in those gorgeous haunting eyes. It seemed as if they could draw you in.

“No! I don’t believe in those things. My brother couldn’t live without them.” She told me. I nodded.

“Okay!” I told her and turned back towards her. Why I did that do that? I don’t know. I guess I was compelled. The atmosphere was getting pretty thick in here. I thought.

“Thank you for taking this case on.” She told me, sliding her hand down my arm. The hair on the back of my neck stood straight up. among other things.

“No problem!” I said after clearing my throat. Is it me or did the temperature in the room just went up a notch?

I felt it was time to lead her to and out the door. I was going to need a cold shower and hoped, she couldn’t see how aroused she had made me. I walked her to the door and told her I would do my best to find out what happened to her brother.

She took my hand into hers. I once again got caught up in her eyes. We stood there for moments. I don’t know how many, staring into each others eyes. There was a force that came from within her, reaching out and drawing me to her.

Our bodies touched. I felt my head moving down to her. She placed her hand at the back of my neck, assisting. My arms automatically, went around her waist, bringing her into me. Our lips met, we were embracing.

I was like a starving child, kissing her hungrily. I held her, lifting her off the floor. Allowing my tongue to taste every inch of her mouth. I couldn’t stop. It was getting intense.

No! I don’t want to stop. Even for a breath of life. At that moment! She was my breath.

I was overwhelmed by the fire in this woman! I could do nothing, but hold on and let her unleash on me. I finally needed some air! I unlocked my mouth from hers. Still holding her breathing heavily in my arms. I looked upon her face, remembering everything about it.

Then slowly coming back to reality, I gently set her down. Never taking my eyes off her. Opened the door to allow her to leave. I didn’t want Tracey to come in on us. It would be something to explain.

As much as this woman stirred up things in me that I never knew were there. My heart still belonged to one woman only. Tracey! And as much as she tries to deny it. Hers belonged to me. We didn’t need to have to come into this office, which was our place and feel awkward. I had the information I needed. I knew we would be seeing each other again. That was a given.

I closed the door behind her as she left, leaned against the door. Trying to catch my breath and strength back into my legs. I made it back to my desk, to look over my notepad and information she had given me.

“Taker! Have I got so information!” The door swung open snapping me out of my day dream. Tracey stormed into the office. She began to rattle on about the people she had talked to and what they told her. Strange how, my mind wasn’t on her and what she was saying. It was on Ulna.

Chapter Five

I don’t know at what point while Tracey was talking to me, that I tuned her out. I don’t even remember How long she was telling me her findings before she realized I wasn’t listening. I can’t tell you whether or not she called my name.

Nor can I tell you when she got up from her seat, moved from behind her desk and came to stand in front of me. I can’t tell you how many times it took her to call my name before I responded. I can tell you I heard the last call.

“Taker!” She screamed. I looked up into her clear eyes, as she stood across from me, arms folded across her chest.

“Yeah!” I said and rose from my seat and headed for the refrigerator to get a bottle of water. I could feel her eyes stabbing me in the back.

“What is up with you? I was telling you what I got from the wife and neighbor. I was rattling on when I saw you weren’t saying anything. And there you were spaced out.” She informed me.

“Sorry! I had a visitor! And not quite sure what to do.” I told her and took a quick gulp of the water. I could feel her moving behind me, getting closer.

“Really? Who and what did they want? I can see you it something that really has you.” She said. I turned to face her.

“Remember when I asked you if you saw me talking to someone?” I asked her. She tilted her head to the side and tried to remember back. Then her eyes did something that made me realized she remembered.

“Yeah! It was when I went to find out who the was the woman crying and talking to the police.” She said. I nodded and walked pass her to my desk. I picked up my pad and looked it over.

“What’s that?” She asked coming over to me. I looked at her.

“A woman approached me at the crime scene. While you were away from me. When you came back she left. I didn’t see where she went. Well she came here. Said that her brother was also killed in the same manner and wanted me to investigate his murder.” I filled her in.

“Oh wow!” She said and took the pad to look at the information. I went behind my desk and sat down, watching the expressions on her face as she read. Then finished reading, she walked over to my desk and sat on it, staring into my eyes. I knew what was coming.

“Okay! I need to know some things. I know you’re a big boy and all. But......” She started.

“But your instincts are raging.” I said. She nodded.

“And yours are too, from what I can hear in your voice. That’s what got you in deep thought, huh?” She asked.

“Yeah! There’s something not right. I can’t put my hands on it, but it’s there.” I rose from my chair and walked over to the window.

“That’s strange. Why didn’t you tell me we were going to be taking on another case? Or were you waiting until I got to the office?” She asked. I turned my head to look at her.

“No! I had no idea I would be seeing her again. I thought she was just another person hanging around. Until she showed up here. She said Hal told her where to find me.” I informed her. She walked up to me, with this strange look in her eyes.

“Hal wouldn’t help us with new clients. I’m going to ask him. I’m not liking this at all!” She said and went to her desk, picking up the phone. I sat and listen.

“Hello! May I speak with Detective Hal Jones?” She spoke to someone on the phone.

“Oh okay! Could you leave him a message to call Tracey Jones? Thank you.” She said, then hung up the phone. Her eyes shot over to me.

“He’s out in the field and they don’t know when he’ll be back. Hopefully he’ll get my message and call.” She left her chair and began to put on her coat.

“Where you going?” I asked. She straighten out her coat.

“I’m going to talk to someone I think may have seen something last night but doesn’t want to get involved. I think it’s time to put the fear of the Lord in him.” She answered.

“Okay! But be careful. Unless you want me to come with you.” I said to her. She tilted her head to the side and half smiled.

“No I don’t need you to come with me. I’m a big girl! Besides, you need to follow up on that information.” She said, opened the door, walked out and closed it behind her. Leaving me alone in the office.

“Okay Trace! But one thing I realized. You never gave the person you spoke to your phone number to give to Hal! I guess you didn’t need to.” I said out loud.

Chapter Six

I made a few phone calls and called in some favors. I had some connections down at the police station I could depend on. I needed to look over some police files. If there was a murder of this sorts, it should be on filed.

My mind crept back to the encounter with Ulna. I shook it out. I can’t afford to get distracted. My gut continued to warn me something wasn’t right. I took another glance over the notepad.

“They came from England. Her brother was self employed. And entrepreneur she said. Well I have to find out what he did. Could be something there.” I grabbed my trench coat and headed out to the police station.

Meanwhile Tracey was following up that lead she had told me about. Something about putting some fear in someone. If anyone could, it would be her.

She pulled up in front of a house. She looked at the piece of paper with an address on it. It checked out to be the same. She had gotten it form the license plate she memorized. She then opened the car door and stepped out of it. She looked up an down the street as she closed the door. It wasn’t to far form where the murder had occurred.

She slowly walked up the pathway to the house, coming to stand at the front door. She pushed the button, sounding the doorbell. A woman could be asking who was it.

“Tracey Jones!” She answered, as the door slowly opened.

“Yes? May I help you?” The woman was near 50-plus. Nice looking woman. Short and thin.

“Ma’am! I’m here to see your husband. I have to ask him some questions about what happened last night.” She informed the woman.

“Oh what a dreadful thing to have happened. Come in! Come in!” The woman opened the door wider and beckoned her in. Tracey was surprised she gained entrance so easily. Maybe it was fear that brought that on.

“We had just passed that street last night.” She continued talking leading Tracey into the sitting room.

“Can I get you something to drink?” She offered her.

“No thank you Ma’am!” Tracey answered, shaking her head.

“Oh please, just call me Clara. Clara Cain!” She told Tracey and offered her a seat on the sofa..

“Sure Mrs. Cain!” She addressed her, sitting down. and watching her sit in a chair across from her.

“You said you had just passed the street when it happened?” Tracey asked, pulling out her pad and pencil.

“Yea! We had just come back from having dinner.” She said.

“How do you know you had just passed something happening?” Tracey to Mrs. Cain.

“Well! We were driving alone. I was seated down in the car, falling asleep. My husband slammed on brakes! He seemed to be hysteric. He got out the car, leaving the door opened. The cold air filled it quickly. That woke me up.” She relayed the events of the night before.

“Did he see anything?” Tracey asked.

“He said there was a man on the corner. Something about jogging. Then he vanished in thin air. He was very upset!” She explained.

“Get out! Get out of my house before I call the police.” The voice boomed into the room, causing Mrs. Cain to jump and screech. Tracey instinctively came to her feet and prepared to defend herself.

“Mr. Cain!” She started.

“I said to leave my house. I told you I didn’t have anything to say to you or know anything to tell you.” He was very angry. He went to stand next to his wife, calming her down.

“Fine! I’ll leave. But remember this. Who or what killed your neighbor is still out there. Just what your back. Who knows who will be next! So if you do remember anything. Please call me!” She warned him, placing her card on the coffee table. Then she turned and walked out of the room.

She made it to the front door, walked out and closed it behind her. He went to the window, making sure she had left. Then he went over to the coffee table and picked up the card, looked at it then sat it back down. His wife stared at him, shaking her head.

“Don’t start Clara! Don’t start!” He said and left the room. She picked the card up and put it in her pocket. She remembered one thing form the night before. The feeling they were being watched.

Chapter Seven

I made a stop by the hall of records. If Clay Lansing was doing anything legit, business wise. he would have had to registered. And since his sister Ulna was being so mysterious abut where they lived and her phone number. I had to cover my behind.

I went through some file concerning anyone with the last name Lansing. There was only one. Clay! He was an entrepreneur alright. And a very successful one at that. He imported and exported rare artifacts. A lot old stuff!

I jotted down the address on file. Closed the book and returned it to the clerk, thinking her. Then headed out to the police station. I gave Tracey a call en route. I wanted to know if she got any new information But mainly if she was alright.

“Hello!” She answered her phone.

“Hey Trace! Everything okay?” I asked. She paused for a moment.

“Yeah! Everything is going peachy!” She said sarcastically. I wondered what got her panties in a bunch.

“I can tell you’re in a good mood.” I responded. I heard her sigh on the other end.

“Sorry! Just hasn’t been a good day! ” She told me. I was just rounding the corner onto the street of the station.

“I know! It’s been the same for me. But I did get more info on the guy whose murder I’m investigating. I’ll fill you in later. I’m going to go to the station and look through some files.” I told her.

“Okay! I’ll give you some heads up also. I’m here at the crime scene. They still have it roped off, but most of them have left. Their allowing me to look around. I guess they got what they needed.” She told me. I got this uneasy feeling.

“It’s getting late! Don’t stay there to long! You never know!” I reminded her.

“Yeah! I know! Don’t worry. I want be here much longer. Going to see if I can catch up with Hal. And speaking of him. You be careful he don’t catch you nosing through privy information.” She laughed.

“Don’t you worry! I know how to do it.” I laughed.

“Yeah! That you do!” She teased. I knew exactly what she was hinting at.

“Say goodbye Trace! And get out of there before dark. I’m not getting good vibes from this case.” I warned her. She told me goodbye and we hung up. I pulled up in front of the station, stepped out of my SUV and ran up the steps.

I was met by my friend who hurried me alone to a private room no one uses. I wouldn’t be interrupted. I don’t know how long I had searched through the files. But my stomach ached, informing me that it was hungry. I had been a long day. I was just about to close the files for the day, when my eyes caught something.

Meanwhile! Tracey had finished looking over the area. She felt she had gather enough. So she headed on out as promised. The sun was setting and the remaining offices where leaving. he decided this would be as good a time as ever to take the clue. She made a call to Hal! Strange that she had his cell phone number. Or was it? He wasn’t picking up for some reason. Little did either of us know he was in a life and death situation.

Chapter Eight

Hal oversaw the investigation. Making sure everyone was prepped right not to contaminated the crime scene. He watched every bag and box that was carried out ad placed on the vehicle parked to transport all the evidence back to the station.

He wasn’t in a very good mood. This was a case form hell. He knew it. He had never encountered anything so brutal in his life. How can something human tear a man apart like that, leaving hardly nothing to identify him? But what got to him mostly is seeing Taker!

He respected him as a former wrestling star. Hell! He was his favorite. He didn’t have any problems with him retiring and decided to start a career in the law. Well, more like snooping around as an Private Investigator.

The problem he had, was with his ex-wife Tracey and him. The connection between them was loud and clear. Whether the knew it or not. Everyone else did. He knew what he had lost. That was his fault. he should have been more aware of her needs.

But his job always came first and utmost. When she had enough and moved out of the house, presuming her career. He knew there was no reconciliation between them. Oddly enough the remain friends.

“Penny for your thoughts!” The familiar voice flowed through his ears. He turned to face Tracey. A warm feeling grew within. After Taker had left the scene, Tracey saw that Hal was still there. She decided to see if she could pump more information.

“Where’s your boyfriend?” he started. She tilted her head and let out a long sigh.

“Don’t Hal!” She warned and walked pass him and up to the yellow ribbon.

“Okay! Anyway, why are you still here? Oh! You want to know if I have something to tell you. Right?” He pointed his finger at her and stared at her. She allowed this little smirk come on her face, forgetting that he knew her.

“Busted! But look Hal! We can help you find what happened here!” She started. He gave her a quick glare and walked away form her, seeing that a box was being carried form the scene.

“You don’t think I’m capable of solving this case? Or do you think Taker can do it better, as we know you are in the position to compare your notes.” He spewed at her. She looked at him long and hard. Then shook her head and began to walk away. he felt bad for betraying her confidant. He ran and grabbed her arm, turning her to face him.

“I’m sorry Tracey! I don’t know what got into me. No! I take that back. I do know what’s gotten into me and has never left. You! I have never stopped loving you and wanting you. And that night you revealed you slept with Taker. I refrained myself, hiding what I was feeling inside me at that time. That’s why I dislike him. He has tasted of you and now you’re in his blood. He’ll never let anyone get near you. Never!” He told her. She watched and listen to him. She didn’t know if he was speaking of Taker or himself. His grip was getting harder.

“Hal! You’re hurting me.” She squirmed to get out of his hold. Suddenly he came back to himself and realizing what he was doing, set her free.

“I’m sorry Tracey! It’s just........” He started. She touched his hand and shook her head.

“I know Hal! Us parting wasn’t good for either of us. You’ll always hold a special place in my heart. A place no one else will be able to touch.” She gave him a quick peck on the cheek and ran to her car. She got in and gave him a last parting look, then drove away.

Down the road she stopped to rub her arms and cry. He had shaken her up. She had never seen him so primal. She decided to go take a walk in the park. She needed to clear her head before meeting Taker or he would see something was wrong. And she wasn’t in the mood for his drama. Not today! Not now!

Chapter Nine

Hal watched as Tracey drove down the street away from their confrontation, until her care disappeared from sight. He slowly began backing up, eyes still peeled to the road. he took in a long breath and allowed it to exit his body. Then he turned away and walked back to overseeing the task at hand. Neither Tracey or him were aware that they were being watched.

After the last piece of evidence had been stored on the van, Hal got in his car and followed it back to the station. He went into office and closed the rest of the station off from him.

He wasn‘t feeling being bothered by anyone at this moment. He had a gruesome murder on his hand, that the media so amply covered. He knew in a couple of hours it would be broadcast on TV and people will panic, calling in and demanding more police protection. He also knew the Mayor will be calling the Police Chief and want some answers. Which would lead to him coming into to asking Hal if there were any.

And the encounter with Tracey played on his mind also. She was an hard one to get out of your system. How well do I know. I wasn’t mad at him for what he felt for her. After all she was once his wife. But that was it. Once!

Hal felt there was something familiar about this crime that bugged him. He sat down at his desk and opened up the files, going over the information that had been gather. Then his memory came back.

Last year while he was on vacation. A prominent, wealthy man had been killed while out taking a walk. That’s why it didn’t ring a bell at first. He wasn’t on that case. He quickly left his office and went down to the cold files room.

What was the person’s name? He tried to remember. He searched for the year and month for cases. He grabbed the file he found and went back to his office. There hadn’t been another case like this, until now.

Are had there?

Hal went over that case and compared it to this one. He found something, which prompted him to go to the morgue. He needed to see if they had started the autopsy as of yet. This case needed to be top priority. They were a step ahead of him and to him it would be several hours before they would even have a preliminary report to summit.

He asked them for the report of the case from the year before. He wanted to see what had been the conclusive cause of death. And he wondered if there were any similarities. He headed back to his office with file in hand and looked over it, waiting for them to finish the other autopsy.

Hal became restless waiting. It was growing dark and he felt he had to do something. He’ll look over the autopsy report tomorrow. He looked at the file of last years murder and got the information he needed. The name of the surviving relative. Ulna Lansing. And her address. Mockingbird Lane.

He jotted down the information on a piece of paper. He thought maybe Miss Lansing could fill him on more of what happened the night he brother died. Hal got up from his chair and grabbing his coat, he headed out to get some answers. Answers is what he would get. But were they the ones he wanted?

Chapter Ten

Mr. Cain sat in his easy chair, watching TV. He reached to the table next to him to get the pack of cigarettes sitting on it. It picked it up and saw that it was empty. He let a curse word escape his mouth, threw the empty pack in the trash and search the cabinet for the carton he bought earlier that month.

“Clara! Where is that carton of cigarettes I bought?” He called to her, still searching the cabinets.

“You took the last pack out yesterday. Don’t you remember?” She called back to him from the other room.

“Dammit! That’s right!” He said and walked back to his chair. He sat down for a few moments, before his nicotine fit began to raise its ugly head.

“I can’t take this! I have to go and get me some cigarettes before I go crazy!” He said and got up from his chair once again, went to the closet and pulled out his coat.

“Clara! I’m going to get me some cigarettes. I can’t stand this! I’ll be back!” He hollered to her as he went through the door.

“George! It’s not safe out there! After what happened last night, surly you can wait until morning. Eat your gum you bought when you were trying to stop!” She pleaded standing in the doorway.

“That stuff don’t do no good. I’ll be alright! I’m driving!” He said and continued on.

“Those cigarettes will be the death of you.” She said and closed the door. Their garage was placed in the back of the house. He usually puts the car in it when he feels he’s in for the night. Normally that would be the case, if he had had his cigarettes.

He was walking when he thought he heard a rushing sound. He stopped and turn around to see if there was something there. Must be the wind, he thought and continue towards the garage. Once again the rushing noise, this time it seemed to just brush behind him.

He panicked and turned quickly around, searching th yard. Then he heard a low growl. He turned in its direction, the bushes next to the garage began to rattle. He strain to see what was there, then decided it was time to get back to the house. He took off running. That’s when he felt it behind him.

“Clara! Clara! Opened the door Clara!” He cried out. Clara hearing him, jump from her chair in the sitting room, tossing her knitting to the side and ran to the back where her husband was yelling in frantic for her. Just s she got to the door, one minute he was coming toward her, then just as quick he vanished before her eyes.

“Geeeoooorrrrggggggeeeeee!!!” She screamed, froze in shock.

Chapter Eleven

Tracey had went back to the crime scene to see if there was something that maybe the cops had missed. She saw that Hal had long gone. I think she wanted to talk to him, not wanting to leave what had happened between them to linger.

After our little talk on the phone and my warning of how late it was getting, she mention about going to find Hal, then going home. She never mention until later what had went on between them.

That’s when she decided to get in some nice R&R! She ran her nice hot bath and soaked for a while listening to some soft jazz. Then she pulled out some tapes, got her some popcorn and sat down to enjoy the evening.

All was interrupted by the phone ringing. She looked over to it, exasperated. Then turned back to look at her movie. The ringing stopped. She sighed a relief. Then it started up again. She threw her hands up in the air, sat the bowl of popcorn to the side and went to answer the phone.

“Yes!” She semi-screamed into it.

“Miss Jones?! Miss Tracey Jones?” The voice sounded very strange and unfamiliar.

“yes! May I help you?” She asked, getting this sinking feeling.

“Miss Jones, please! My husband! Something took him away!” She began to cry hysterically. Tracey drew in a breath, eyes enlarging.

“Mrs. Cain?” She asked, remembering the voice.

“Yes! My husband Miss Jones! My husband!” She broke down and began to sob heavily on the phone.

“Okay! Mrs. Cain! Make sure your doors are locked. I’m calling the police then I’ll be there. Stay as calm as you can. Be careful, Mrs. Cain!” Tracey instructed her then hung up the phone, calling 911!

Hal had driven down the lonely stretch of road. Not many homes in this area and what there was were spread far from each other. They were like estates. He came to the address he had scribbled on a piece of paper. He sat looking up to the huge museum. It reminded him of the old sitcoms the Addams family and Munsters. Very creepy. Whilst from the other mansion he had passed, were well kept.

He exited his car, walked up to the gate and rung the bell. There was no answer. Maybe the damn thing didn’t work, he thought. He walked over to the gate to see inside to the house, maybe he could detect some movement. He could see there were light on. There had to be some servants or someone there. No one would live in a huge place like this alone!

Or could they?

As he placed his hands on the bars of the gate, it moved. Slowly easing apart. He stepped back surprised at his fortune. He pushed it opened wider and got back into his car and entered.

He wound his way around the curved driveway and came up in front of the house. He parked his car in front of the house and stepped out looking around. It was more eerie from within.

Hal walked to the door and rung the doorbell. Still no one answered. But strangely enough, he could see that the door was cracked opened. He was concerned that something had happened here. He placed one hand on his gun and used the other to push open the door.

“Hello!” He called out. Total silence. He slowly walked in, looking around. It was very dark and musty. The house appear to be empty. No one stirring about.

“Is anyone home?” He called again. Still quiet. He eased further into the house, looking around. His eyes went to the stair case. He looked up to see if anyone may be up there but couldn’t here him. At this moment his instincts kicked in. Something was definitely not right here. He pulled his gun from his holster.

“Miss Lansing! My name is Det. Hal Jones! If you’re here and can hear me, but able to come to me. Call out and I will come to you!” He said and listened. At that very moment, he heard a rushing wind and the door slammed closed. He jumped turning towards the door, gun aimed and ready to fire.

I thought he heard a rustling sound. Then the rush once again, this time the lights went out and he stood in total darkness. He stood there for a few seconds, listening and allowing his eyes to adjust to the dark.

He thought he heard some rustling once again. This time it was closer. He slowly backed away from the stairs and up against the wall, not far from the door. If need be, he would make a run for it and call for back up. Something an pass him, he could barely make it out, but one thing he knew. It was huge.

He began to fire in the direction. He thought he heard a low growl from the other side of him. Whatever it was, moved swiftly. He decided this wasn’t worth it. He made a run for the door, swinging it open.

He could feel the thing right behind him. Luckily for him the door wasn’t locked. He quickly made it to his car, looking at the house and around him to see if he could see the thing that was after him. There was nothing.

He nervously grabbed the door knob, pulling it towards him and opened the door. He jumped in and attempted to close the door with one swift move. But at that moment, he felt something grab his leg and a sharp pain scrape across his chest. Instinctively he fired a few rounds in the direction his leg was being pulled. Hitting the assailant! It let out a howl and ran away, leaving him in pain and succumbing to the darkness.

Chapter Twelve

“Sam left for the day?” I asked the Sgt. at the desk.

“No, he’s in the back. Oh, here he comes.” He said, as Sam walked up to me.

“Thanks for the help!” I him and handed him the files. he looked own at them then set them on the desk.

“What’s with these files today?” The Sgt. said looking at the files in front of him.

“What do you mean?” Sam asked.

“Det. Jones asked for these very same files earlier.” He informed us.

“Yeah and something from the cold files too.” Another police officer walked up.

“Really? You wouldn’t happened to know what the file was do you?” I asked.

“Last year it seems something philander got himself killed while out walking.” He explained.

“What’s so strange about that?” I asked.

“He was mauled like the stiff brought in today.” He answered. I went into thought. So there was another case as this one.

“What was this man’s name?” I asked.

“Let me see.” He opened the files and looked at the first page. Why didn’t he tell me those were the files in his hand?

“Clay Lansing!” He told us. I stood there unable to say a word. Ulna Lansing’s brother. This case was growing interesting by the moment. I compared the address. It was the same as the one she gave me. And yeah, no phone number. I guess I’ll pay Miss Lansing a call tomorrow.

“Anyone seen Det. Jones?” I was getting ready to leave, when the Medical Examiner walked up.

“Now that you mention it. I haven’t seen him for a while now.” Sam told him.

“Is that the autopsy report?” I asked. He stared at me for sometime.

“Yes it is. If you see Det. Jones, let him know that I have what he need.“ He turned to Sam.

“So what did you find out?“ Sam asked. He looked at Sam then at me.

“I don’t think we should be discussing this in front of him. Hal warned me.

“Look! I have already enough information to help catch this creep that’s making mincemeat out of people. If you have some information that I can use to help. Then please let me know what I’m going up against.“ I told him, giving him a long stare down.

“It’s okay! I can vouch for him. And his partner and him have really helped out on a lot of our cases. This thing is personal with Hal!“ Sam told him. He still hesitated, then let out a huge sigh.

“Okay! But remember if Det. Jones finds out, I’m using your butt to cover mine.“ He warned Sam.

“Hey man! We’re on the same side here. I want to get this psycho before he kills again.“ I added.

“Well whether it’s a he or she! It’s not human. It’s canine! And I don‘t mean dog either. More like wolf!” He told us, looking from one face to the other. Seeing the reaction to what he had revealed sunk in.

Just at that moment a call came in. Sam picked up the phone and took it. There was another incident.

“Yes? Tracey? Where are you?” He asked. I snapped my head to where he sat behind the desk.

“Tracey? My Tracey?” I asked walking up to the desk. Sam waved me off, writing down what she was saying.

“Okay! Give me the address!” He asked.

“What is happening? Where is she?“ I was frantic by now.

“Okay stay where you are! Tracey no! Damn it!“ Sam said then looked at me.

“She is so hard headed.“ He said and made the call for units to go out to the address she had given.

“Sam! Where is she? What happened?“ I came at him. Sam looked at me.

“There’s been another in that same area. The woman called her at home. I told her to stay......“He started.

“Give me the address!“ I snapped! I ran out of the station and jumped into my SUV and drove out to the address, followed by police cars. Wait till I get my hands on her. Hard head and soft behind played in my mind.

Chapter Thirteen

I raced down the street, surrounded by the squads cars. Then I realized something, I had no clue where we were going. So I pulled up a little to allow those who knew lead me.

They made a sharp turn onto this street not too far from the previous incident. Two cars sped down to the other end of the street, while two stayed at the other end, blocking the area off.

Just as the remaining cars pulled up to the curve, with me in toll. A elderly woman came running out of a house, hands flinging about above her head and screaming to the top of her lungs.

Sam was one of the first cars to hit the curve and jump out. he caught the hysterical woman and took her into his arms, trying to calm her down. The other cops ran into the house and around the back, guns drawn and surrounding the house. I walked over to Sam and the lady crying her eyes out.

“Is Tracey here yet?” I asked, looking from the woman to the house.

“No! She was at home when I called her. She told me when she came to ask my husband some questions that I could call her. I didn’t know what else to do.” She began to cry once again. I walked over to her and patted her shoulder, reassuring her it was okay.

“She should have been here by now!” I said, looking down the street for any signs of her.

“She told me it would be 15 minutes before she got here, but that she would call the police. Since they could get here before her.” She told me. At that moment I felt a vibration. My phone. I pulled it out of my jacket and looked to see who was calling. Unknown, it said. I flipped it opened.

“Yeah!” I said. No answer, just heavy breathing.

“Hello! Who’s there!” Still no answer. I shut it down and turned back to Mrs. Cain.

“Here comes the ambulance. They’ll take you to the hospital and take care of you.” I told. My phone vibrated once again. I flipped it open once again.

“Hello!” No answer. Now they just pissed me off.

“Look a@@hole! Whoever you are, don’t call my damn number again. Or I will trace you, then I’ll kick your worthless a@@!” I hung up the phone.

“Lowlife!” I said, then looked at a surprised Mrs. Cain.

“Sorry Ma’am!” I said then walked away, wondering what was keeping Tracey. She should be here by now.

As if it couldn’t get worst. Another car came up to us. Sam looked and knew. He let out a long sigh. The Captain. He walked right up to us and we could se he was in one of those moods.

“First! Why is he here?” He looked over at me, staring me up and down. Then over to Sam.

“He happened to be in the station when the call came through. And since his partner Tracey Jones called it he came to make sure she was alright!” Sam explained. He looked at the woman sitting in the car crying.

“So where is she?” He asked.

“She was at home! I called her.” Mrs. Cain said form the car. The Captain walked in front of her and stooped down to look her in the face.

“Ma’am! What happened here?” He asked. She began to sob.

“My husband left to go get him some cigarettes. I told him it wasn’t safe. Not after what happened last night.” She paused.

“But he went out anyway. It wasn’t even a few minutes before I heard him calling me for help! I ran as fast as I could to him. But just as he was at the door. This huge shadow passed by and took him away. It just took him away.” She started up crying. The Captain touched her hand gently.

“Mrs. Cain! Why did you call Tracey Jones instead of the police?” He asked. I stared down at him long and hard. Boy would I like to kick his teeth in.

“She can to ask my husband questions from last night.” She answered him.

“Last night? What is there he could tell her about last night?” He asked.

“We were coming home from dinner, when my husband saw the jogger on the corner. He looked away then back in the rearview mirror and saw him vanish in thing air. That’s what she wanted to talk about. But George didn’t want to get involved. Strange!” She finished.

“Strange?” The Captain asked. She looked up at him and stared into his eyes.

“Strange that he got involved after all. More than he wanted.” She said as the ambulance pulled up. The Captain stood up and looked over to her house.

“We got anything yet?” He asked.

“Not yet!” Sam said and beckoned for the ambulance attendants.

“Where is Det. Jones? I have been trying to get him all evening. I heard he was at the station, but left. He’s not answering his cell phone.” The Captain turned to Sam.

“I saw him when he left. But haven’t heard from him since.” He told him and walked over to one of the officers who was signaling to him. he discussed something with him, then looked over to the Captain. he looked hesitant, but came to him anyway.

“Sir, found something.” He said. The Captain nodded.

“Her husband?” He asked.

“We think so. Are what’s left of him.” Sam informed him.

“Okay! Take me to the scene. And someone try to contact Det. Jones!” He ordered and followed same and the other officer. I pulled my cell phone out and called Tracey’s house, since she wasn’t answering her cell phone

“Why wouldn’t she answer it?” I said as I punched in her numbers. He allowed it to ring a few times before the answering machine picked up. His mind began to play tricks with him. Neither Hal or Tracey could be reached by cell phone. But she was home.

“Naw! Just my imagination playing tricks with me. Mrs. Cain called her at home. So maybe she’s on her way now?” He reasoned with himself, trying not to think about what was in his heart.

Tracey had dressed quickly was had scurried around looking for her cell phone. But after not being able to locate it, left to go see about Mrs. Cain. She made her way out to her car, never hearing the phone ringing.

She got in and turned on the ignition. It stalled. She pumped the pedal then turned the key once again. It stall! She popped the hood, jumped out and raised it up, to see what was wrong.

“Oh my!” She said in a low voice, not believing what her eyes were seeing. The wires were ripped out! She stared at this, then looked around. She backed away from the car and looked up and down the street. Her instincts kicked in. Someone or something was out there.

She went back to the car. Then she reached in, snatched her keys and grabbed her purse. Then not panicking, slowly backed away from the car, towards her house. She reached in her purse to retrieve her gun, still trying to see if she could detect any movement.

That’s when she heard it. A rushing noise to her one side. She turned in that direction, gun pointed, she saw nothing. She didn’t wait, continuing towards her house. Trying to stay calm and focus.

Once again the rush! This time it passed right behind her. She swung around, gun ready. She saw nothing, but felt the danger in the air. Now her nerves were getting the best of her.

She fumbled with the keys in her hand, finding the one she needed and decided to make a run for it. She made it to her door, stuck the key inside of the lock. That’s when she heard the growling sound behind her.

Without looking back, she turned the key and knob simultaneously, shoving the door open and rushed inside. Just as she went to close the door. She saw it! A huge dark foreboding shadow. It lounged at her.

She let out a ear piercing a scream, slamming the door. It hit the door with a loud bang. She fired into the door repeatedly and continued to squeeze the trigger way after the gun was empty.

"All units! There is repots of gun fire over on Oak Lane! We need all available cars to check it out." I had decided to give her a few more minutes before I went barging over to her house. But then the call came over the car radio.

That’s the street Tracey lives on. I ran to my car, leaving the cops to figure this mess out and went to see that Tracey was alright. I had tried her cell phone, but got no answer.

I came around the corner of the street she lived. That’s when I saw the neighbors out on the street, looking towards her house. I sped up and jumped out as soon as I had stopped the car. I ran to the house and saw the bullet riddled door. The cops were just pulling up with me. This had been a very busy night.

"Tracey!"I yelled, pounding on the door. There was no answer. I didn’t wait another second, I kicked the door in, coming in, I heard the whimpering sound before I saw her. She was backed into a corner, knees to her chest and head resting on her arms. I ran to her and pulled her into my arms and carried her to the couch.

"Is she alright?" Someone asked. I turned to them.

"We need an ambulance!" I barked, the cop went to his car and called it in. While others searched the premise.

"Tracey! You okay Babe?" I asked. She looked up into my face, searching it.

‘Taker?" She said barely above a whisper.

"Yes! It’s me!" I told her.

"I saw it Taker! I saw it!" She said then passed out. I held her close. I made up my mind that that thing had to be stopped. No matter what. This was just to close for comfort.

Chapter Fourteen

I stirred from my sleep, feeling before I heard someone entering the room. It was the nurse coming in to check on Tracey. I rose from the chair I had slept in, seated next to her bed. I looked over to her and saw she was still out to the world. I guess her experience the night before was a little more than she could handle.

I walked over to the window and stared out to the morning sun rising. People were busy coming in and out of the hospital. An ambulance sped up to the entrance. I turned my head after hearing the Nurse talking. Tracey was awake. She looked over to me. I went back to her side.

“Hey Sleepy head!” I said, trying to make light of what had happened. She smiled, still not fully awake.

“Hey Taker! Where am I?” She asked, looking at the Nurse then back to me.

“You remembered what happened last night?” I asked her, taking a seat in the chair and putting her hand in mine. She seemed to be searching her mind for something. Then she got this look on her face. I knew then she remembered.

“Oh My God!” She said and pulled herself up in a sitting position. I touched her arm, trying to calm her down.

“You need something?” The Nurse asked. Why do they always think someone need something if the get a little excited.

“Naw Nurse! She don’t need nothing. Can we be alone please.” I said standing up. She looked me up and down, then walked towards the door. I kept my eye on her until she left, the turned my attention back to Tracey, shivering in the bed. Knees pulled to her chest and in a death grip by her arms.

“I saw it Taker! I saw it!” She said, staring out into space. And sat in the bed next to her and took her shoulders, turn her to face me.

“What did you see?” I asked her. She stared for a moment into my eyes, then away form me.

“You wouldn’t believe me!” She said.

“Try me!” I told her. Then her eyes met mine.

“Okay! It was a wolf!” She told me.

“Wolf, huh? Why wouldn’t I believe you?” I asked. She never took her eyes from mine.

“It wasn’t just any wolf Taker! It was an Werewolf!” She dropped the bomb. I stared at her without flinching. After all I did tell her to try me.

Hal felt could sense the outside world before he actually became a part of it. He stirred from the deep sleep that had held him most all night. The warm sunlight caressing his body. His mind was emerging from the fog that encompassed it. He tossed over onto his back and slowly parted his eyes, adjusting them to the light filling the room.

He stared up into the ceiling, then from w\one of him, to the other. He didn’t know this place. His mind tried to retrieve the night before and what had happened. There was something that happened, he had to remember. But it just wouldn’t come to him.

How did he get here? And where was here?

“Hello Detective.” The voice addressed him as the door to the room creaked open. His head snapped over to where it came. An elderly Woman entered the room carrying a food filled with breakfast. She set it on the night stand by the bed, then stared at Hal.

“Who are you and where am I?” He asked her, sitting up in the bed, then feeling a little dizzy. She straighten things out on the tray for him, not looking at him.

“I’m a friend. And this is my home.” She answered, placing some food on a plate and handing it to Hal. He looked at the food then to her.

“I asked you a question!” He said, not taking the plate offered. She stared at him for a second the sat the plate down.

“You asked two and I answered them. You’re not hungry? It’s okay, soon you will be! I’ll leave it here.” She said and turned to leave.

“Wait!” He called to her. She stopped in the center of the room.

“I don’t remember much. Except!” He grew quiet, as his memory came rushing back into his head. She felt his silence and turned to face him.

“Except what child?” She asked. He looked up at her, then down at the floor as if searching for something. She began to walk slowly come back to him.

“I’m a police officer. My name is Hal Jones! I’m on a very important case.” He began. She nodded her head.

“Can you now tell me who you are and where am I?” He pleaded.

“I am Mornae! I live here on this vast property! I worked in the big house as an servant.” She answered him coming to stand next to the bed.

“Did you see it?” He asked. She gave him a strange looked.

“See what?” She inquired.

“That thing that attacked me? You had to have seen it. Are I wouldn’t be here!” He told her.

“I saw nothing, Mr. Jones! I was rounding the house, on my way home and found you passed out in front of the house in your car. What were you doing here anyway?” She asked, sitting on the edge of the bed.

“As I told you. I’m on a case and was following a lead. I came here to see Miss Lansing!” He said. He noticed she flinched form the sound of the name.

“What’s wrong?“ He asked. She back away from the bed and turned to leave. He went to get out of the bed and follow her, but felt a bit swoozy.

He almost passed out on the bed, she heard him fall and came back to his aid, calling for someone. A giant of a man walked into the room and picked him up effortlessly, lying him back in the bed.

Chapter Fifteen

“Let me get this straight! You saw a werewolf?” I asked Tracey. She nodded her head.

“Yes! I wouldn’t have believed it possible if I hadn’t saw it with my own eyes.” She told me.

“Werewolf! Like in the Lon Chaney, Bela Lugosi movies!” I made a joke out what she had revealed to me. I don’t think she was too pleased, she gave me a look.

“TAKER!” She yelled. I knew it was time to no my role. I stood still! I had crossed that line.

“Okay! Okay! Look Tracey! Now stay calm, you just had a very bad experience.” I walked over to her and gently rested one of my hands on hers. She wasn‘t feeling it and snatched it away.

“You think Taker! I almost got killed last night by a monster! A werewolf whether you believe me or not. I know what I saw.” She folded her arms across her chest and looked away from me. At this time I was feeling really low.

“Look Babe! I’m really sorry. It’ just..........” I couldn’t finish the thought. She noticed the paused and turned her head to look at me. She could see on my face, what my lips couldn’t say. We stared into each others eyes, she nodded her understanding. At that moment Officer Sam came into the room.

“Hey Tracey! How are you doing?” He asked, handing her a box of candy.

“I’m fine Sam and thank you!” She said and took the candy, gesturing for him to come and get a hug. He obliged.

“Did you find Mr. Cain?” She asked. He let out a long breath, looked from Tracey to me.

“Yeah! Same as the other. Man I have never seen anything like this in my life. And the coroner said the other was done by some canine. I don’t know any dog that would or could rip a person apart like that!” He began to scratch the bald spot on his head. I and Tracey looked at each other. I shook my head no.

“What about a wolf?” She asked. He looked at her curious then, at me. I turned around, facing away from them. I wanted no part of this lunacy. Then Sam turned his attention to Tracey.

“Wolf? No, I don’t think so. And I would have heard of a loose wolf running around by now. Naw. It couldn’t be.” He shook his head. Tracey knew she was right. No a wolf or dog couldn’t. But a werewolf could.

“And there is something else going on here too.” He said. I turned back around.

“What Sam?” I asked, wondering what more there was to this case.

“Hal is missing! Have either of you heard from him?” He had a tint of hoping in his voice.

“No I hadn’t! Have you Tracey?” I asked, turning to her. She looked at me, then rolled her eyes. She knew what I was implying.

“No Sam! I haven’t talked to him since yesterday at the crime scene. He said he was going back to the office.” She told him, then looking back over to me. I gave he a smirk.

“Yeah, he did come in and looked over some files. He’s been missing since last evening. He left out without telling us anything. He’s not answering his cell or home phone. We had the landlady knock on his door, but no answer. I’m getting worried.” He said, looking at Tracey. She nodded.

“Yeah! That’s not like Hal!” She looked from Sam to me. I turned and walked over to the window. This case holds a lot of mystery.

Werewolf! I hope not. The dark side of things is a place I’m very familiar. I just hope not to have to revisit it. I turn back to face the two in the room. No! That’s a place I would rather leave in my past.

Hal was sitting on the bed, resting against the headboard. He had tried to get out of bed and follow the old lady, when he became weak and nearly passed out. The lady, Mornae. Called in a huge giant who helped him back to bed.

“Do you drink the spirits much Det.?” She asked, not sure what to think of him.

“What?” He looked up at her, then to the giant standing at the foot of his bed.

“Do you drink?” She asked again, making it very plain what she was saying.

“Yeah, but not last night. I was on duty and following a lead, like I told you. I only entered the house because the front door was opened and not one was around. I assumed there was foul play.” His eyes continued to dart from her to the giant, as he lead back into the headboard.

“Det.! I don’t know what you’re blabbering about! The house was locked when I left to come home. You were knocked out in your car. I tried to arouse you many times, but you wouldn’t come too. I had my son here to assist me with you and brought you here. I couldn’t leave you out there in the cold. And I’m sure you wouldn’t want anyone to see you in that state either.” She said to him. He squinted his eyes at her.

passed out.

“Look Something was in here. It attacked me!” He explained to her. She looked at him as if he had lost his mind.

“Look Lady! I was attacked by something in your house! I shot it! It screamed and ran.” He looked her dead in the eyes, his voice low and calm. She squared her jaw.

“If this is true! Where is the wound?” She asked.

“Here across my ches.........” He snatched opened his shirt, to reveal where the claws had scratched him. But nothing was there. He stared at his chest for a long time, then looked back up at her. She said nothing, then looked at her son. He stared back and then at Hal.

“I was attacked. I know I was.” He said, more confused than ever.

“When you’re able Det. I think you should leave. And please get some help for that problem.” She told him in a low and calm voice, then walked out of the room. He son gave him one last look then followed his mother.

“I know I was attacked. I know I was.” He whispered to himself and sat on the side of the bed for a long time. He felt this hunger come over him and looked at the tray of food still sitting on the night stand. He reached over and began to devour the food as if he hadn’t ate in days.

Chapter Sixteen

Mornae’s son had stayed a few minutes longer, at the door of the room Hal stayed. He watched him ravish the food tray. Then turned and walked away quietly, to the kitchen where his mother had gone.

“Do you think we should be letting him leave in this state?” The giant asked. The old lady sat at the table in the kitchen, looking through a book.

“It’s best we stay out of this! There’s nothing we can do.” She told him, thumbing through the book.

“I guess you’re right. It just doesn’t seem right, that’s all.” He said and took a seat in a huge custom made chair. She looked over to him.

“You have always wanted to do the right thing. Things will come together. We just need to stay out of this for now and let everything play out. No one is to know about us just yet.” She more like reminded him, then told him.

“But the Det.?” He asked. She smiled and shook her head.

“There’s not much we can do now. He has bigger things to worry about than us.” She said and went back to reading her book. Her son wasn’t quite sure of the decision his mother was making. But he knew why and had to respect that.

“What are you doing?” I asked Tracey, as she swung her feet out of the bed. She pushed the call light and stared at me annoyed.

“I’m leaving! If that’s okay with you.” She snapped. A shocked looked came over my face. Where did that come from?

“Sure! I just asked.” I replied. I then stood to my feet and watched the nurse come into the room and pass me, going to Tracey.

“I want to see the Doctor. I want to leave.” She told her. The nurse nodded and left as quickly as she came in. Tracey, then hit the floor and walked over to where her clothes were hanging in a small closet. She gather them into her arms and with a backward look at me, went into the bathroom to dress.

I didn’t say another word. I knew what prompted this, Hal! She was going to find him. And I had learned, never to get in her way once she is this driven. I walked over to the window and looked out into space, not really seeing anything.

Suddenly a foreboding feeling crept over me. I didn’t know what it was exactly, but I knew there was something out there that spelt trouble. And it had my name on it.

“Ma’am! I want to thank you for saving my life and not leaving me out there. I do appreciate it. Now if you can tell me where’s my car, I’ll get out of your way.” Hal said, stand at the kitchen door. Both Mornae and her son’s heads shot in his direction.

“Don’t worry about it son. I couldn’t leave you out there like that.” She re-enforced her earlier reasoning. He nodded.

“Well I thank you!” He repeated. Then she looked over to her son who had this look on her face. She knew he was still wondering about the decision to allow him to leave in this state.

She let out a big sigh, got up from the table and walked out of the room. Hal looked over to her son, who gave him a glance. Then turned his head away. Mornae re-entered the room and was holding in her hands a pendulum. She walked up to Hal and showed it to him.

“Det. Jones! You said something attacked you last night. If this is so, it may come after you again. This will protect you!” She said and gave it to him. He took it in his hands and gave it an once over. Then he looked at her with this skeptical expression on his face.

“Det.! You said something horrible attacked you. This morning there were no scars. If what you say is true! Then this is the only thing that can protect.” She repeated.

“Well, thank you again Ma’am. But I don’t think a necklace is what I need to protect me. I good bullet will do just fine. But thank you anyway!” He said and handed it back to her.

“Don’t be rude! Twice my mother has jeopardize herself to help you. And all you do is insult her.” The giant stood to his feet. Hal took a step backwards. Mornae waved him down.

“Stop son! I told you it was better to stay out of this.” She said to him, he looked at his mother with understanding. Then turned a glare towards Hal for mocking his mother.

“No! He’s right! I am being very rude. I told you something tried to kill me and you present me with something that could help. Which makes me believe you do believe me and know what it was that attacked me.” Hal looked from Mornae to her son. He looked at his mother, then turned away and sat back down. She took in a deep breath and allowed it to leave.

“You wouldn’t believe me if I told you anyway. Just believe this! Wear that pendulum and your life, along with everyone you hold dear will be safe. Don’t and there will be dire consequences. That is all I can tell you. Now my son will escort you out.” She was very abrupt, then turned and left the room.

Hal held the pendulum, staring at it until he felt the giant next to him. He looked up into his eyes. There were something familiar about them. It was as if he knew them from somewhere. He shook his head and followed as the giant walked through the kitchen and out the back door. Under a tree in a driveway sat his car. He walked up to it and got in.

“Please except my apology and relay it to your mother. You both have been kind to me. I’ll never forget it. he told the giant. He nodded his head.

“It’s no problem. But if you want to really don’t want to forget something. Don’t forget what she told you about the pendulum.” He said and walked away, leaving Hal to ponder if he should give in to superstitious or blow it off as an old woman trying to appease him.

“Oh hell! What can it hurt!” He said and put in around his neck. The giant watched this form the house and as he backed out and left.

“He’s gone?” His mother asked, coming back into the kitchen. He turned to her and nodded.

“He put it on. Don’t know if it was for show or sincere.” He told her and walked over to sit down. Mornae waved it off and sat down at the table once again, opening the book.

“He is the least of our worries. Your brother is the one we need to be watching. Something is going to make him go back into the dark. If he does, we can’t stop him. But maybe, just maybe we can guide him. Or he’ll never find his way back this time.” She looked over to her son.

“If what you saw was true. It was a choice he made and not that it took him over.” He reminded his mother.

“Yes! This is true. But nevertheless, the dark side will try to consume him.” She tells him.

“But this time it will not be for selfish reasons. It will be for love.” He more said to himself then his mother. She looked over to him and nodded. Then she felt something twinge in her.

“I sense he is feeling us, but doesn’t know it yet.” She warned her son, as she walked over to the window and stared out.

“We have to be more careful. He mustn‘t know of us just yet.” He reminded his mother. She looked back at him.

“I know Kane! I know!” She said wearily. There was nothing she could do to alter what was to come, but she could aide in the outcome.

Chapter Seventeen

“Hal! Hal!” Tracey yelled, banging on the door and alternating ringing the doorbell. I came along for the ride. She didn’t say much to me as we drove over. But that was cool. I wasn’t about to take no for an answer. She knew that very well.

“Hal! Hal are you in there?” She yelled one last time, then as if she remembered I was there looked at me exasperated.

“What do you think could have happened to him?” She asked me. I looked at her then turned my head to see if someone was behind me. Then back to her pointing my finger at my chest.

“Are you asking me?” I asked, with this confused look on my face. She titled her head and glared at me. I knew it annoyed her, but hey what can I say?

“Why did you even come? I know how you feel about Hal! So why are you here?” She said, turning away from me and began to lean in the doorbell and calling him again.

“Because I care about you! You were nearly killed last night by whatever. I’m not letting you out of my sight!” I told her, as I got this sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach. I couldn’t shake the feeling something terrible was about to happen to change my life. And I didn’t think it was for the best.

Then!

“Hey!” The voice came from behind us. Tracey spun around on her heels to face him. My head snapped around to see who was addressing us. It was Hal!

“Hal! Where have you been?” She said walking towards him.

“What’s going on?” He said, looking me up and down as he passed then turned his attention towards Tracey.

“What’s going on?” She yelled. I just moved farther from the scene and took a safe seat on the banister to watch the show. Hal looked at her, as she reached her arm back and landed a nice one across his jaw. He fell back against the banister, grabbing his jaw.

“Tracey! What the hell is wrong with you?” He said, rubbing his jaw. She charged him once again. I decided enough was enough. The man deserved to at least state where he had been. I grabbed her around the waist and lifted her off her feet, carrying her a safe distance away from him and sat her down.

“Enough! Give the man a chance, dammit!” I yelled at her. She was taking by surprise.

“You’re taking his side?” She pointed at Hal!

“There is no sides Tracey! Give him a chance to explain. That’s all I’m saying!” I told her. She stared at me for a few seconds, then over to Hal who was confused.

“Okay! You’re right.” She said, then slowly walked pass me towards Hal.

“What’s going on Trace!” He asked. She tilted her head, as she usually does when she can’t get something.

“Half the police force along with your Captain have been looking for you since yesterday evening. And all you have to say is what’s going on?” Her voice was low and calm. Hal looked at her then at me, as if he was searching for an answer.

“I got caught up in a lead.” Is all he would say. Tracey took in a deep breath, then slowly allowed it to exit her body. She knew him enough to know when he was lying. Even I could see that.

“That’s all you have to say! You got caught up in a lead. Well while you were caught up in your lead, did you think to answer your cell phone? And were you so far away form your car to hear all the commotion that was going on last night?” She asked. He grew more confused.

“What commotion?” He asked. She looked down at the ground, putting her hands on her hips.

“Well, Hal! While you were following your lead, two things happened. Number one. A witness to the first murder, became a casualty. Number two. I almost joined him!” She informed him. His eyes lit up like fireworks on the Fourth of July. He grabbed her shoulders.

“Are you alright Trace?” He asked looking her over. She snatched away from him.

“First, never call me Trace! That is not yours to call me. And yes I’m fine, if you care. We all just thought it had gotten you.” She remained calm. I was glad she corrected him on that. That was my pet name for her.

“It? What do you mean it?” He asked, walking away and staring over the banister. His thoughts went back to last night.

“Tracey saw the thing.” I injected. Hal looked over at me, then back to Tracey.

“You did?” He asked. She nodded, then turned away. Hal looked to me for the answer.

“What was it?” He asked. She looked back at me, then to him.

“I’m not sure you will believe me if I told you what I saw.” She answered.

“Try me!” He echoed what I had said. Her eyes widen, then she looked over to me. I shrugged my shoulders.

“Yeah, sure!” She said, remembering the outcome when she told me. She grew hesitant to say it, so I decided to help her out.

“Trace thinks she saw a wolf.” I said.

“Really? Why would I not believe that? It all makes sense now.” He said, causing both Tracey and I too look at each other.

“Hal! What do you mean it all makes sense?” She asked him. He looked at her and headed towards his door.

“Let’s go inside. I’ll tell you what really happened to me last night.” He said unlocking the door and opening it. He entered his apartment, followed by Tracey and me.

Chapter Eighteen

“Either one of you want something to drink?” He asked, throwing his jacket over a chair and heading for the kitchen.

“I’ll take a beer.” I said. Tracey looked at me as she sat down on the sofa. I took a seat next to her.

“Trace.....I mean Tracey. Would you like something?” He asked her again.

“Nothing for me, thank you. So what happened last night Hal?” She was anxious to hear what happened. Hal came in the room with two beers and handed me one then took a seat in a chair across from us. He took in a long breath then let it out. He popped the top on the can, taking a huge gulp. He sat staring at the can for a few moments. Tracey looked at me then to Hal.

“You saw it too? Didn’t you?” She asked. He did say anything for a moment, then he looked at her.

“No! But it chased.” He told us, then took another large gulp of beer.

“What! Wh-what happened? Where?” She started coming to her feet. I leaned in. This was getting very interesting.

“I went through an old case from last year. Another Det. was on this case, I was on vacation. I remembered him calling me about it. I went to the house to check it out. I thought it strange the front gate wasn’t locked though it had security gates. I drove up and the door was a jarred. Of course the cop in me went in to investigate, thinking foul-play.” He paused enough to take another drink. He was clearly upset.

“Those were the files you were looking over in a cold case?” I jumped in at this time. He looked over to me, curious to how did I know about the files.

“I’ll explain later” I told him. He half nodded. I was the least of his worries.

“Yeah! Some rich philanderer was killed in the same manner. I went to see his sister. I thought maybe she had met the same faith as her brother. We I went in and called ot her, no one answered. I proceeded to search the inside while still calling to her. It appeared to me either they dead or no one was there.” He took the last of the beer and crushed the can, then got up from the chair and headed into the kitchen to get another beer. Tracey looked over to me. I was in my own deep thoughts. Rich man and sister. Reminded me of a case I was on.

“What happened then Hal?” She left her seat and stood in the doorway of the kitchen just as he was closing the door of the refrigerator. He popped the top of the can, then stared into space.

“I started up the stairs when I felt a gush of wind behind me, causing the front door to close. I turn to see, it was dark. The lights wouldn’t come on. Then I felt it blow pass me. I thought it a good idea to get to the door. I thought it had to be some kind of an animal, the way it darted around the room and growled. I ran out of the house and got to my car, only to have it attacked me!” He looked over to her then nearly empty the can down his throat. She turned and walked back in the room with me, Hal close behind her.

“You say it attacked you? How did you get way? No one else has survived it‘s attacked before.” I began. He looked over at me. I expected him to tear into me and throw me out of his apartment. But strangely enough, he didn‘t. That‘s when I knew things were going to get real crazy.

“I don’t expect either of you to believe me. I don’t believe or understand it myself. I was attacked. I felt its razor blade claws scratch me across the chest. I shot it a several times. I ran away screaming. The last thing I remembered was the excruciating pain before I passed out.” His eyes darted from me to Tracey as he told this part. He leaned against the door frame and took a swig of his beer. Tracey walked up to him.

“It’s so strange you’re standing here like nothing happened to you. May I see the scars?“ She said to him. He paused again then looked down at the floor.

“There are no scars. When I woke this morning, they were gone. I know it sounds far fetched, but it is true. Not even the old lady and her son would believe me.“ He said and went back into the kitchen, leaning on the counter. Tracey looked back at me, forehead full of wrinkles.

“Old Lady? Her son? I thought you said no one was home?” She turned to him.

“No there wasn’t. The mother works up in the big house where I was attacked. She said something about locking the doors and finding me out in my car. She had her son to help me to their home. They live in a house out in back of the main house.” He explained.

“They didn’t say anything about you being hurt? Surly they would have taking you to the hospital or called an ambulance?” Tracey asked. She had this tone of trying to believe this story. I didn’t. Hal seemed to have gotten irritated with her questions.

“I’ll tell you like I told them. I know what happened to me. I wasn’t drunk or dreaming. I was attacked.” he said then walked back into the kitchen placing his hands on the counter and balanced himself.

“Okay Hal! I know how it feels to tell someone something and have no one believe you. Especially about this case.” She said, looking back at me then, pulling on his arm for him to face her. He turned and stared into her eyes.

“I was attacked, Tracey! I can’t explained why there are no scars this morning. Damn! I wish I had some kind of proof.” He said, pulling out the pendulum and began to play with it. My eyes caught it. A chill passed down my spine.

“Where did you get that?” I asked, jumping to my feet. My tone must have startled them, because it seemed like they both almost jumped out of their skins.

“What is wrong with you, Taker? And why are you asking about this chain?” Tracey walked to the kitchen door. I looked at her not wanting to stir up things.

“Nothing! I just thought it was weird looking.” I lied. Hal walked passed Tracey and looked at it then to me.

“I got it from the old lady. Mornae! She said some BS about it would protect me and my love ones!” He told me, sounding a little skeptical. I didn’t know this name. But I did know that pendulum.

“No! You don’t get off that easy, Mister! You nearly freaked when you saw that thing.” Tracey wasn’t letting this go. At that moment the phone rung. Hal answered it.

“I said it’s nothing to it. Now let‘s go.” I told her and headed for the door. I looked over to Hal.

“Hal!” I whispered to him. He put his hand over the phone.

“What?” I could see he wasn’t having a pleasant call.

“Listen to the old Lady.” I told him and walked out of the apartment, leaving him stunned.

Chapter Nineteen

“Alright! Now that we’re out of there, tell me what’s going on? I know you recognized that chain. What give?” Tracey started in on me no sooner than when had entered the car. I drove down the street heading for the office. I needed to look over the paperwork of Ms. Lansing. I knew that’s who had to been the case Hal was talking about.

“You remember that lady I told you about yesterday?” I asked her. She stiffened.

“Yeah! What about her?” She asked.

“I’m thinking her case we have, is one in the same as the case Hal was talking about.” I told her. She shifted her body in her seat.

“How so?” She asked. I glanced over to her.

“Her brother was a rich entrepreneur. He was killed in the same manner. But what I didn’t know is it was last year and not this year. I had this gut feeling something wasn’t right about her. Appearing and disappearing in a flash.” I rambled on.

“Taker! What are you going on about? What? You think your mystery lady is up to her eyeballs in this case. Or maybe she’s the werewolf!” She said then started laughing. I didn’t! She stopped and took a long look at my face.

“You do believe me, don’t you?” She came to a realization.

“I’m not saying that! I’m saying that she may know more than she’s letting on. And I want to question those two servants of hers. What was the woman’s name?” I continued to drive. Yeah, that sinking feeling was growing bigger and getting deeper.

“Mornae, I think he said.” She answered. Still didn’t ring a bell.

“Let’s go back to the office and hash over everything that happened over the last two days. I believe Hal when he said he wasn’t drunk. No matter how I feel about the guy, he is an professional. Something happened to him last night for sure. We need to find out just what! It may save some lives.” I said and sped down the street.

“Taker! You’re avoiding my question. What do you know about the chain the lady gave Hal?” She wasn’t going to let it go.

“Okay! It’s something I remembered when I was doing the dark Undertaker. I kinda got into the crazy stuff back then. Anyways, the pendulum not chain, is from a cult. It’s sorta a protection thing.” I tried to explain.

“Protection? From what?” She had to ask. I know my answer is going to get her all in an uproar.

“Werewolves!” Is the only way to say it. She stared at me for a few seconds, speechless. That in it’s self was a feat, then turned to face the front of the car.

I took a quick glance over to her and then back to the road ahead. I didn’t want this, but here it is. I couldn’t stay in denial anymore. There was something out there! A beast that was preying on innocent people. And if we didn’t get to the root of this, it will kill again. And the worst thing of all, it may have an unwilling accomplice. I hope Hal listened to me.

Hal got off the phone with his Captain, chewing out his butt. He grabbed the can of beer and drunk the last of it. Then he went over tot he sofa and fell on it. He began to play with the pendulum, remembering the last words I had said.

“Dumbass! What kind of fool do you take me for. Listen to the old lady. He‘s just trying to make a fool out of me.” Then he snatched it from his neck and threw it across the room. He felt this overwhelming desire to go to sleep. He immediately turned over on his side and fell into a deep slumber.

We made it back to the office. Tracey was silent the rest of the way. I knew that wouldn’t last long. I headed for my desk and picked out Ms Lansing’s file. I looked at the first page for her address. I needed to talk to her servants as well as her.

‘Something is bugging you. I can tell!” She sat down behind her desk watching me thumb through the papers and began scribbling down the address.

“Yeah! Something about people getting killed and not knowing what you’re up against bothers me.” I looked over to her. She shifted in her chair.

“No, that’s not it. It may be part of it, but not what has you like this.“ She said, staring at me, as if she was trying to read my mine.

“Okay Miss! What is it? Since you seem to think you know me so well.” I walked around and sat on the edge of my desk, folding my arms across my chest.

“Every since you saw that chain around Hal’s neck. You suddenly changed into someone I don’t know.” She stood to her feet and came up to me. I stared at her blankly and hoped this wasn’t going where I think it would.

“I’m still me, Trace! Always has and always will. No matter what!” I told her, staring into her eyes. She returned the gaze. We stayed that way for how long I don’t know. Then I broke the silence.

“It’s getting late. I will feel better if you stayed at my place until we find this thing. I have more than enough room. You can picked the any bedroom you want except mine. Let’s say we swing around to your place and get some of your things?” I suggested. She didn’t say anything as she thought about it, then she smiled.

“Okay! I hadn’t planned to go back there anyway. I was going to get a room at the hotel.” She informed me.

“Okay! Let’s go!” I told her and we left the office, heading over to her place.

Chapter Twenty

Mornae left the mansion in a hurry. She burst into her house, causing Kane to jump to his feet. She threw her shawl over the sofa, pacing back and forth. Kane walked over to her and looked down at his mother. He could see that something was bothering her. No something had her highly upset.

“What is it Mother?” He stopped her in mid pace. She looked up to him.

“It’s been right under our noses.” She said. He titled his head to the side.

“What’s been under our noses?” He asked.

“I told Ms Lansing about the Detective and what happened. She didn’t seem to surprise. That I was concerned about, knowing what I know about her.” She walked over to her rocking chair and took a seat. Kane sat on the edge of the sofa nearest her.

“And?” He urged her on. She looked at him.

“There’s nothing more we can do here. We’ll have to leave tonight before the sunset and the moon rises. I found a knew location close by. I already informed her I had to leave immediately. I told her it was an emergency in the family that had come up.” She told him. He grew more confused.

“But Mother! We are so close! We have all the information we need. To leave now will only mess everything up!” He said to her. She looked over to him.

“It’s already mess up, Kane! It will only get worst if we stayed.” She left her rocking chair.

“What is it Mother? It has to be important if you’re willing to leave here!” He walked over to her and rested his hands on her shoulders. She reached one hand up and place it on one of his huge hands.

“The Detective knows your brother. I’m sure it will be no time, until he comes here wanting to ask us questions about last night. The saving grace is he doesn’t know Mornae. Or that it’s a derivative of Morena!” She said. Kane flinched.

“We can’t be here.” Kane told her. No it was too soon for his brother to come to them. He looked at his mother and knew what she was thinking.

Nightfall! It use to be I would enjoyed seeing the sunset and the moon take it’s place high in the sky. But these days has changed that. With that thing out there taking lives, it has become a dread. I stood at the door with my old faithful. I watched as Tracey loaded up the last of her belongings, to take to my house.

“That’s it, Taker! We can go now.” She said as she stood in the mist of her home, looking around. It was as if she was saying goodbye, instead of only leaving for a few days or until we could catch the killer. I walked over to her and stood behind her, bending down just shot of her ear.

“It’s not forever Trace! You’ll be back relaxing in your abode in no time.” I tried to humor her. I watched as her chest went in then out. She was fighting back the sorrow filling her.

“I know Taker! It’s just that I have never ran from anything in my life. And I don’t want to now.” She said. I touched her shoulder with one hand.

“Trace!” Is all I said to her. She turned towards me and stared me in the eyes. I saw that her eyes were moist with tears that wouldn’t fall.

“I know Taker! I know! Let’s get out of here before I start to cry.” She said and rushed pass me and out the door. I took one last scan of the place then followed her.

I made it to my SUV and pulled the door open to get in. I thought I heard a rushing sound. I turned to see what it was. The bushes across the street were shaking like crazy as it something had plowed into them.

“Get in Taker! Let’s get out of here!” Tracey screamed. She didn’t have to tell me twice. I jumped in and with one smooth motion closed the door, turned on the ignition and sped down the street. In the distance I thought I heard a wolf howling.

“Did you hear that?” I turned to her as we continued on leaving her house behind.

“Yes! I don’t see anything” She was turned, looking through the back window.

“I doubt it would allow itself be seen out in the open. It’s probably running along the side of us, out of sight!” I told her. She turned around and sat down, staring at me.

“So now you believe me?” She asked. I didn’t look at her.

“I always believed you. Just didn’t want to except it.” I looked over to her and looked deep into her eyes. She half smiled and nodded her head in understanding.

“It goes back to the Dark Undertaker, doesn’t it?” She asked.

“Yeah! Sad to say.” I said. She decided to let it go for now and turned around completely in her seat and stared ahead. We drove back to my place without another word.

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