The damn telephone rang and I picked it up. Nat King Cole sang carols in the background. A fresh layer of snow glistened on the tiny patch of lawn outside.
“Hello,” I said.
“Why hello. If it isn't Doctor/Detective Cross himself. What a neat treat.”
I didn't have to ask who the caller was -- I recognized the voice. The sound of it had been in my nightmares for a while -- years.
“Long time, no talk,” Gary Soneji said. “I've missed you, Doctor Cross. Have you missed me?”
Gary Soneji had kidnapped two young children in Washington a few years back, then he'd led us on an incredible search that lasted for months. Of all the murderers I'd known, Soneji was the brightest. He had even fooled some of us into believing that he was a split personality He'd escaped from prison twice.
“I've thought of you,” I finally told him the truth, “often.”
“Well, I just called to wish you and yours a happy and holy holiday season. I've been born again, you see.”
I didn't say anything to Soneji. I waited. The kids had picked up that something was wrong about the phone call. They watched me, until I waved for them to finish up with the Christmas tree.
“Oh, there's one other thing, Doctor Cross,” Soneji whispered after a long pause.
I knew there was something. “What is it, Gary? What's the one other thing?”
“Are you enjoying her? I just had to ask. I have to know. Do you like her?”
I held my breath. He knew about Christine, goddamn him!
“You see, I was the one who left little Rosie the cat for your family Nice touch, don't you think? So whenever you see the little cutie, you just think- Gary in the house! Gary real close! I am, you know. Have a joyous and safe New Year. I'll be seeing you soon.”
Gary Soneji hung up the phone with a gentle click.
And then so did I. I went back to the beautiful tree andJannie and Damon and Nat King Cole.
Until next time.
The End
FB2 document info
Document ID: ee26296c-ac84-4164-8f21-b444e00a3c8b
Document version: 1
Document creation date: 11.7.2011
Created using: calibre 0.8.9 software
Document authors :
Patterson, James
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Alex Cross 3 - Jack and Jill Page 34