“True.” He admitted.
“Did your leaving me at Kally’s last night have anything to do with why Deputy Brown was with you?”
“Kind of. I left you to go to Gillian.”
Reggie reacted immediately, “Is she ok? What happened? Should I go over there?”
Travis smiled. Oh how he loved this woman. There was no better friend in the world. She’d only known Gillian a short time, yet he knew Reggie would face almost anything to protect her.
“She’s fine Reg, no need to go charging to her rescue. She’d figured out the cause of her near faint and needed to talk to me about it. I can’t divulge the details but suffice it to say, at the moment, it’s a police matter. I’m going to her place for dinner tonight and hopefully, we can work some of this out. What are your plans for this evening?”
“I got nuttin’ and don’t try to distract me. What do you mean, it’s a police matter? Gillian’s okay, you said so.”
“Yes, she’s okay. I can’t tell you more right now, but rest assured, she’s fine. I won’t let anything happen to her. Trust me.” His tone was final.
“Hmm…I guess I’ll have to leave it at that, for now.”
“Good.” He was relieved; a curious Reggie could be a pain the ass. “If you don’t have plans tonight, why don’t you stop by my folks’ place? My Mom was just saying the other day they hadn’t seen you in a while. It’s lasagna night; you might be able to angle an invitation to dinner, if you play your cards right. Later, you could all watch movies together.”
“Yeah, like I don’t see through that. You don’t want me to be alone tonight. Since I happen to love your mother’s lasagna, and I’m a total loser with no plans for a Saturday night, I’ll cooperate. But you’re going to have to explain yourself soon, buddy.”
“Thanks.”
“I’ll give Ruth a call later. I won’t disturb her sleep on a Saturday morning. That would be rude.” She sounded more than a little peeved.
He ignored her, “I’m sure she’ll appreciate that. I’ll talk to you later.”
“Any time after nine is fine.” She hung up.
* * * *
Gillian and Dr. Melvyn Smythe had lunch at a small restaurant in town. He seemed happy to see her and insisted this wasn’t a professional call. He had wanted to find out how she was doing and since he was not too far away, this was the perfect opportunity.
Gillian filled him in on all that had happened to her in New Crescent. He was pleased she had been able to discover the cause of her near black out in the supermarket, and that the mental exercises he’d taught her, were of assistance. They talked at length about Sandy’s situation and he gave her the number of a rape crisis counselor he knew.
He said, “I strongly recommend that you call this woman before you even attempt to talk to Sandy. Normally, I wouldn’t stand still for this at all, but someone like you, Gillian, could be exactly what this girl needs. You’ll understand her better than anyone. You have a good heart. I just hope you’re up to it.” He patted her hand with genuine affection. “I’m glad the police are involved, as well. Keep physical contact with Hank at all times and call immediately, should you need me. I’ll cancel my plans this evening and stay available, just in case.”
Gillian was relieved to hear it and said, “I hate to spoil your plans and I wouldn’t normally let you do that but, thanks, I appreciate the support.”
“Not a problem. Martha and I were only going to some fool political fundraiser my sister-in-law is throwing. Believe me, you’re doing us a favor. Please let me know how it goes.”
She felt good after talking with Dr. Smythe. He always made her feel special, like more of a friend than a patient. He had a warm, kind of irreverent sense of humor that she really appreciated. She supposed he was like that with most of his patients and that’s what made him such a sought after specialist. Gillian didn’t care about his reputation or his qualifications, he’d been a great help and that’s all that mattered to her.
The first thing Gillian did when she returned home was call the rape crisis counselor Smythe had recommended. The woman proved very helpful, advising Gillian on what she should and shouldn’t do when talking to Sandy and she promised to fax some pertinent information. After Gillian hung up, her head was spinning with the weight of what she was about to attempt. Again, she gave thanks that Travis would be with her. He, at least, had experience with this sort of thing. This was his duty as sheriff. She prayed she wouldn’t screw everything up and do more harm than good.
After going over and over the literature the rape counselor sent, Gillian set about preparing cold salads and vegetables for dinner. Freshly showered, she wore a sleeveless white cotton t-shirt and hip hugging jeans that flattered her slim figure. She deliberately chose to dress casual for Sandy’s sake. She wanted the younger woman to feel relaxed and as comfortable as possible under the circumstances.
Obviously, Travis had the same thought. He arrived looking as handsome as ever in faded, threadbare jeans and an old t-shirt that had once sported the letters FBI but now looked more like FPI. It didn’t matter, he looked wonderful. His dog, Maggie was adorable and watched Travis with absolute devotion, frequently turning her head to check that he was still beside her as they walked toward Gillian and Hank.
Travis surprised her by kissing her briefly in greeting. He laughed at her expression and said, “Get used to it, Gilly, I’m going to kiss you a lot.” When she opened her mouth to argue with him, he planted another fast kiss on her lips and said, “But not right now. I have a job to do, so stop man-handling me. Where’s the meat?”
She handed him the marinated chicken and pointed him in the direction of the barbeque. “I hope you know how to use that thing. It came with the house. I’ve never barbequed in my life.”
“Of course not, that’s man’s work. I used to barbeque for Aunt Ernestine all the time. This sweet baby and me are old friends.” He lovingly patted the top of the barbeque. Gillian chose to leave the two of them alone.
Hank and Maggie made fast friends. Gillian watched as they chased each other across the lawn. They looked magical together. First Hank was “it”, then Maggie. Their simple, uncomplicated joy spilled out and surrounded her in a warm embrace. She sighed with contentment.
“Dogs are such a gift aren’t they? Many people think that cats make the best familiars, but those of my bloodline, have always preferred dogs. Nothing against cats, of course, it’s just a personal preference.” Travis stood close behind her. He gingerly wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her back against his broad chest. He leaned down and nuzzled her neck. Goose flesh covered her entire body as she tilted her head to the side to allow him greater access. Strange how he knew the exact spot where she was most sensitive. She’d dabbed her favorite fragrance there earlier.
“Mmmm, you smell wonderful. Did I tell you that you look beautiful tonight? I’m going to have trouble keeping my hands off you, but that’s nothing new, is it?”
She laughed softly. At this second, she was glad he couldn’t keep his hands off her. It felt marvelous and for the moment she let herself forget what this evening was all about and the enormous responsibility she had taken on. Travis seemed to understand and simply held her close while they watched their dogs frolic with each other.
Time ticked by un-noticed, but soon enough, they were brought back to reality when Maggie spied Sandy’s car.
Gillian turned in Travis’ arms and looked up at him, her lavender eyes huge in her delicate face. “She’s here. I hope I can do this.”
He took her face in his hands and said, “You can. I’ll be right here. Promise me you’ll let me know if you need me.”
“I promise.”
He pressed an urgent kiss on her lips and released her.
Hank joined Maggie in a whole-hearted welcome for Sandy. By the time Travis and Gillian joined them, Sandy was covered in dog hair but couldn’t care less.
“Hi, Travis,” she said. “I didn’t know you w
ere going to be here.”
Gillian hesitated, but Travis covered smoothly, “Girls can’t barbeque, only boys. I hope you don’t mind.”
“Fine by me.” Sandy laughed.
A relieved Gillian said, “Let’s get some sun on the patio out back. We can watch the boy expert at work. He’s just started the chicken but I’ve got lots of goodies. I hope you’re hungry.” The dogs led the way at a run.
Sandy definitely looked strained. Normally, her smooth skin had a dusky glow and her blue eyes shone with vitality, but today, she looked gray and pale under her tan. Gillian and Travis exchanged a look of concern.
The women stretched out in chaise lounges and watched the dogs play. Soon, both Hank and Maggie were lured by the irresistible smell of the grilling chicken and came to sit on the patio. Hank stayed close to Gillian but snuck a quick look at the barbeque when he could. Maggie basked in Sandy’s attention.
With a hand on Hank’s shoulder, Gillian reached out to her young guest for the first time since she had arrived. She could tell that Maggie had a calming effect. Sandy gained a small amount of comfort just by stroking the gentle, loving creature. Gillian smiled down at both canines and said a silent prayer of thanks for all selfless dogs, the world over. She felt encouraged; maybe between the four of them, Travis, Hank, Maggie and herself, they could help Sandy through this.
Travis pronounced the chicken done and they tucked in. Dinner conversation was hilarious. Travis kept them entertained with stories of his childhood escapades and Ernestine’s reactions to them. He teased Sandy like a big brother would and she relaxed more and more as the evening wore on. Gillian was impressed. He knew how to handle the situation. He was wonderful. She could see why Reggie and Ernestine had so much faith in him as a man. By the time they were finishing the strawberry shortcake Gillian had made, Sandy seemed almost herself again. She laughed as Gillian slapped Travis’s hand away from her plate for the third time. He’d finished his, and had decided he wanted to finish off hers as well.
“There’s more inside. You don’t need to take mine.” She complained as she pushed his large hand away, yet again.
“Yeah, but yours tastes better. What’s that they say about forbidden fruit tasting so much sweeter? I have a sweet tooth you know. Ouch!” She’d stabbed the back of his hand with her fork. Sandy burst into laughter. Travis and Gillian exchanged a look.
He pushed away from the table and said, “I think I’ll make the coffee. Want some?”
Gillian nodded but Sandy shook her head and said, “No, I think I’ll just finish my wine for now.”
Once he went inside, she said, “He’s so cool. He really likes you, you know. I can tell.” A shadow crossed her face and she looked haunted for a moment.
With one hand on Hank’s white fur, Gillian reached out and took Sandy’s hand in hers. She prepared herself for the full force of the young woman’s agony. She wasn’t disappointed. It hit hard. She almost dropped that hand in reaction but instead, she held tight. She looked into Sandy’s pain filled eyes and said, “You can tell me. I know something’s wrong. Please let me help you.”
Sandy glanced at the kitchen window and Gillian feared she’d made a mistake. What if the younger woman wouldn’t talk if Travis could walk in on them at any moment? She had no choice but to continue, she’d already broached the subject and she couldn’t back down now.
“It’s ok. You can talk to me. Travis won’t interfere. You’re safe here.” She squeezed the hand she held.
“I don’t know what you mean.” Sandy looked like she wanted to bolt for a second, then, silently, she started to cry. The tears fell unchecked down her face as she looked over her shoulder at the ocean. She took a very deep breath and let it out slowly. The two women sat in silence holding hands for what felt like hours.
Gillian felt Sandy gradually tighten her grasp. The younger woman was preparing herself for something, so Gillian waited with patience. She dared not scan her; she didn’t want to invade her privacy again especially since Sandy seemed on the verge of confiding in her.
Unexpectedly, she pulled her hand from Gillian’s grasp and said, “Do you want some help with the dishes?”
“Forget the dishes. Look at me.” Gillian took hold of her hand again. “I know you don’t know me very well but I want to help you.”
Sandy looked at her in faint disbelief.
Gillian took a deep breath and took the plunge. She opened her mind and reached deeper. She could feel the emotional pain; it struck like an electrical shock. The poor girl wanted to blurt out the whole story but was too humiliated; she didn’t want to burden Gillian with it. She was afraid of what people might think. Her life had changed forever. She dwelled in a pit of guilt and shame so deep Gillian feared she’d never dig her way out of it. Understanding that, Gillian knew what she had to do. She had to go in after her.
In a firm voice, she said, “Listen to me. I’m going to tell you a little about myself.” When the young woman looked away from her she said, “Sandy. Sandy look at me. I can help you.” When she finally dragged her head back, Gillian told her about what had happened in her own life not so long ago.
“The person responsible is still out there.” Gillian gazed at Sandy unblinkingly. “I don’t remember anything about the attack, just the pain. Now I get these disturbing nightmares; they’re horrible, I wake in a cold sweat, trembling with fear and foreboding. Maybe one day it will come back to me, but maybe not. I’m not sure which is worse.” More tears welled up in Sandy’s eyes and she brushed them away with the back of her hand. Gillian continued while she still had the courage. “The coma left me with an unusual ability. I guess some people would call it a gift but I’m not so sure since it complicated my life, immeasurably. I’m still trying to learn how to control it.” She smiled gently in response to Sandy’s look of concern. “I can pick up what a person is feeling when I touch them. Yesterday, in the supermarket, I touched you and knew what you were feeling at that moment.”
Sandy looked confused and tried to pull her hand from Gillian’s grasp. “I’m so sorry. You felt it? Was that what made you almost faint?”
Gillian’s heart broke once more for this gentle girl who could apologize so sincerely for simply, inadvertently, sharing her pain for an instant.
“Yes, that’s what caused my fainting spell. You see, I usually take Hank with me, one touch and he shields me from overpowering emotions. He wasn’t there, so I wasn’t prepared for the intensity of what you were feeling. It was too much for me.”
“So that’s why Hank has that guide dog vest. We wondered about that. Good thing Travis was there to help you then.”
“Yes, I guess it was. Now, he’s here to help you and so am I.”
“When you touched me, could you tell what happened to me?” She couldn’t meet Gillian’s eyes.
“Yes, I know what happened to you Sandy. I know that someone raped you.” There, she’d said it.
Sandy’s tears fell more rapidly now. Her face crumpled and she started to sob. “You know what he did to me?”
“I know how you feel about what he did to you.”
She hiccupped and blurted out, “I feel dirty. I hurt all over but there are no bruises. I hate my own skin. I want to rip it off with my bare hands. I hate myself. How could I have let him do that to me?”
Forgetting everything but Sandy’s anguish, Gillian launched out of the chair and held the sobbing girl.
Witness to the entire scene, Travis rushed out of the house. He cursed a blue streak under his breath when Gillian wrapped both arms around the inconsolable Sandy. She’d gone too far, risked her safety. But he stopped in his tracks when Hank moved to his mistress’ side and pressed himself against her, offering his canine comfort.
Sandy looked up at Travis as she spied him nearby. She gave him a watery smile, and looked at Gillian. “I think I’m okay now. Thank you. I’m ready to talk.”
Gillian wiped tears from her face with a thumb and said, “Are you sure?”
“Yes. I think I need to.” She grabbed a brightly colored napkin from the table and blew her nose loudly and smiled bravely.
“Good.” Travis said. He pulled a chair close to hers and took one of her hands in his.
Gillian sat back in her chair and stroked Hank’s beloved head. She leaned down and whispered in his ear, “my hero” as she kissed his snowy white head.
Chapter 11
Once she started, Sandy was able to tell the whole story.
“It happened Thursday night. It wasn’t late or anything, maybe around nine-thirty or so. I like to jog along the beach just past Seabury Point. I do it three times a week and this was my usual spot; it’s not so rocky. I was almost finished when he grabbed me from behind. I didn’t see him; he threw something over my head and dragged me into the rocks. He did it there.” She paused, drew a shaky breath and went on almost defensively. “I fought really hard. I’m strong, but not as strong as he was. I swear, I fought him, hard. He was too strong, so strong it hurt. I didn’t know it could hurt so bad. He left me there when he was done. I was afraid to move but afraid to stay there too, because he could come back, so I gathered up my clothes and ran. Oh God, I couldn’t wait to cover myself.” Sandy shifted uncomfortably in her seat. This was hard for her. “I felt so exposed, I just walked into the sea. I wanted to be dead. I wanted it to not have happened. I let the waves wash over me again and again, fully clothed. I wished the sea would take me. I didn’t want to be naked ever again. I don’t know how long I stayed there, I kind of lost track of time, I guess. When I got back home, I showered again and again. I even got up in the night and ran a scalding, hot bath. I scrubbed my skin raw in the tub and I still couldn’t stop. I don’t know if I’ll ever feel like my body is my own again. Why did this happen to me? Why did he do this to me?” He tears dripped off her chin as she looked at Gillian in appeal.
“He’s a sick man Sandy. You didn’t do anything wrong.” She squeezed the young woman’s hand. “He’s a criminal and Travis will stop him. You’re here and you’re talking to us. That’s all that matters now. You’re very brave and you’re very strong.”
Trouble [New Crescent 1] (BookStrand Publishing Romance) Page 8