“I want to talk to him.” Jenny’s pulse rate increased.
“He’s out right now.”
“Out? What do you mean out?”
“I’ve been keeping him asleep so he’d not be any trouble. I suggest you hurry.”
“How do I know he’s still alive?”
“You’ll have to trust me.” Arrogance came over the line.
Jenny pulled over to a parking spot with a meter. “You’ve already proved you don’t keep your word. Why should now be different?”
“Fine, I’ll just leave him where he is. If he comes to and makes it home. Good. If not…”
“Wait. Wait. Wait.” Jenny released a long breath. “When?”
“Midnight tonight. Make sure you have the money with you.”
“I will. Where are you?”
“I’m at a place called Ross Ridge. I believe you know it.”
Jenny let loose a gasp.
“Yeah. And if the police show up, I’ll tell them you set up this whole plan, so I suggest you don’t get out of line.” She laughed. “Come alone or you’ll never see your precious nephew again.”
The line went dead.
She was hiding at Gram’s? How dare she? And drugging DJ. The woman had no medical experience. She could do irreparable harm.
Jenny sucked in a deep breath. She had to take her own advice and calm down. No one knew Ross Ridge like she did. She would bring DJ home if it were the last thing she did. She would not allow Tracy to go through the torment of losing her child. Jenny pressed her hand against her stomach.
No, she would spare her sister that pain.
Kimi, on the other hand, would eventually pay for what she’d done. In politics, protection was the game. And Kimi would soon discover she had messed with the wrong person.
Chapter 60
“I got you, politician’s wife.” Tommy pointed his finger at the phone screen. “You didn’t think anyone saw ya, did ya?”
About a month before, Kimi had sneaked off early in the morning. She’d been doing that a lot lately, so he followed her, thinking she was meeting some guy and cheating him on his money.
Instead, she went to a place called the Dixie Diner outside of Belmont. A painted confederate flag hid most of the window making it hard to see inside. But within five minutes of Kimi entering, a redhead arrived.
They had to have been there to meet each other, making plans to take that little kid, no doubt.
Tommy grinned, unsure why Jenny had that bright blue bag. It had to be full of cash since that’s about all you can get from a bank. Walking in, it’d been flat against her, now she held it with one hand at her side.
His heart raced. Whatever was in that bag would soon be his.
Chapter 61
Tracy stormed back and forth carrying boxes left in her living room to the home office. “How could my own sister do this to me?”
She pulled things out and placed them on the desk.
Once done, she sat down and flipped on the television. On one of the news stations, a police car sat in front of Patty Phillips’ home. Kyle stared out the window at the cameras.
“A source with the police said they received a tip that Ms. Phillips threatened State Representative Gary Carlisle for not sending her an invitation to his wedding.”
“What?” Tracy shot up.
“Representative Carlisle is the brother-in-law to Tracy Allen and was known to DJ Allen, so there is speculation that the boy might have gone off with her.” The newsman glanced down at a paper he was holding. “It’s common to look at all family members and threats toward each, especially if one is well-known.”
Tracy flipped off the television screen. “Let me guess, my wonderful sister sicced the police on you. Probably made up the whole letter.”
She pulled out her laptop and read through car lot ads on the computer screen. She needed one that bought used cars. She came across Gilbert Auto Sales whose ad claimed they paid top dollar for BMWs, Mercedes, and Lexus vehicles.
“We’ll see how false your advertising is.” She dialed the number on the screen.
“Gilbert Auto,” a deep voice said.
She pictured the man on the other end of the line as large with greasy-coated fingers. “Hello, I have a Mercedes I’d like to sell. Can you give me an idea over the phone how much you’re willing to pay for it?”
“Depends on a lot of things—what it looks like, what year, what model.”
“It’s in very good shape. My husband was very proud of it.” More proud of it than of his own family.
He let out a weighted sigh. Little doubt a lot of phone callers claimed this. “Listen, Lady, I can’t give you a quote without seeing the car and having my guys go over it.”
“How late are you open?”
“We’re closing in fifteen minutes.”
“Oh, okay.” Tracy did her best to hide her disappointment, not wanting him to think she was so desperate she’d take any amount. “What time tomorrow can I come in?”
“Let me check our calendar.” The man put her on hold and some country song came on the radio.
A wave of sadness swept over Tracy. By this time tomorrow, she’d have the car sold. She’d have to eventually decide on a funeral for Daniel. No matter how bad their marriage had gotten, she never wanted to be a widow, for DJ to lose his father.
“Ma’am?”
“Yes.”
“Eight o’clock would be good if that works for you.”
“It does.”
“Your name?”
She hesitated. “Tracy Allen.”
Silence fell over the line. Finally, the man asked, “Is that Tracy with a y or ie?”
“Y.” With her luck, she’d find the media camped outside his business when she got there. Levigne would have a field day with this, but it didn’t matter what the news said, she had to find her son. She released a stuck breath she hadn’t realized she’d been holding. Hopefully, by this time tomorrow, DJ would be home, safe and sound.
Chapter 62
Jenny spent the next couple of hours collecting and selling jewelry to get money for DJ’s ransom. She’d worn a scarf over her head hoping to disguise herself at a pawnshop in Ookie. No one seemed to notice her.
She didn’t get near enough but it would have to do.
Jenny’s shoulders and back hurt. There was no guarantee DJ was even still alive. Just because Kimi said he was asleep didn’t mean much anymore. Jenny didn’t have any choice but to trust her.
Inside the house, she placed her purse on a nearby chair. The only light on was the lamp in the living room. It was after nine. She trudged to the back and opened Dad’s door. The aroma of mentholated rub hit her. His knee must be bothering him again.
He lifted his head from his pillow. “Any newsh?” he asked.
“Not yet. Did you get some dinner?”
“Yeah. I’m fine. Jusht tired.”
“Okay. I’ll see you in the morning.”
She closed his door. If everything worked out, she’d have DJ back by the time he woke up.
Even though she’d had nothing to eat since lunch, with no appetite, she went straight to her bedroom. She pulled Grams’ RN pin from the corkboard above her desk. The pin pricked her finger when she pulled it off. She jerked back. Even Grams was angry with her. She sucked the small drop of blood on her finger.
Surrounded by certificates, including her nurse of the year plaque, only showed how much she had to lose when this all came out. No matter how this played out, Tracy would never trust her again. Getting arrested could cost Gary’s love. And if DJ doesn’t come home…
Tears welled in Jenny’s eyes.
She had to make this right. Bring DJ home and no one ever find out her involvement. If Kimi took the money and disappeared, she could claim someone called with a ransom demand.
But would Tracy cover for her? Either way, she’d not allow her sister to pay for her crime.
Jenny pulled out a pad of paper and pen and wrote:
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To Whom It May Concern,
If you’re reading this, I assume I’ve been arrested.
I am writing this note to be clear: I am the person who took DJ Allen. My sister Tracy Allen had nothing to do with it. After months of seeing bruises on Tracy’s arms, I got worried about the safety of my nephew. Then when it appeared Daniel would win custody, I knew I had to do something. While it wasn’t wise, know that my intentions were good.
I worked in conjunction with Kimi Frazier to make it appear Daniel had kidnapped his own son. However, in the end, she double-crossed me and disappeared with DJ. I’m heading up to Ross Ridge tonight to pay her the ransom she demanded for DJ’s release.
I’m sorry for all the pain I caused everyone. It was not out of spite or hatred. I felt a deep need to protect DJ. I wanted to ensure Daniel never received custody until he was old enough to protect himself.
I’m not making excuses; I just want my family to understand my motives. No one was supposed to be hurt, but Kimi Frazier had other ideas. I hope one day everyone can find it in their hearts to forgive me. I love you all.
J ~
She reread the note then folded it and placed it in an envelope, laying it on top of her pillow. At least with Gary out of town, she had time to tear it up if everything worked out.
She glanced at the clock. Plenty of time. She had to make sure Dad was sound asleep so he didn’t hear her leave and get suspicious.
She opened her laptop and glanced through the news. One of the stations displayed a photograph of Patty Phillips running from the police station to a car. Channel 12 at that. Guess she won’t be doing any more interviews with Levigne.
On another site, Kimi Frazier’s picture stared back at her. What if this was all a trap? Jenny chewed on her thumbnail. After a second, she walked to the hallway closet. In the very back, under some old blankets, she found the case. Jenny pulled it out and carried it to her bedroom. On the bed, she unlatched it and stared at the pistol.
This might end up being the only way to ensure that Kimi does not start any trouble.
Chapter 63
Tommy waited an hour after the lights went out to get from his truck. He tried to figure out a way over the fence, but unsure if there was an alarm attached, he thought it better not to take a chance of hopping over. There didn’t appear to be any security cameras, but it was hard to tell these days. No security signs were present, but that didn’t mean much.
Would Jenny C. allow him in if he pressed the button on the front gate?
No. A lady like her would have the cops called before he got his mouth opened. Besides, there was that older guy in there too. He might have a gun. An old guy like that could aim for Tommy’s leg but hit him in the gut instead.
He had to find a way to let her know he was on to her.
The front door opened. He scooted to the edge of the fence between her property and the neighbors.
Jenny C. closed the door gently behind her. Tommy thought about calling out to her, but then he reconsidered for two reasons.
The first was if you were sneaking out of your own home, there had to be a reason. And the second was that bright blue bag she had with her. The same one as at the bank.
She put the bag in the backseat and got into the front. Tommy waited to see what direction she was heading. Once he was sure she wouldn’t see him, he ran across to his truck.
He drove without his lights on until they got to the exit for I-10 East. He eased up on the gas then followed up the ramp. He stayed behind a Honda Civic until she got off then took a left to Mountain View Road. He turned right, then did a U-turn.
No other cars were on the road which made it easy to keep track of her.
A mile and a half going straight then she took a right. He passed the road, then again turned back around. Seminole Road. A bright yellow sign read Dead End.
He grunted a laugh. “I guess that depends on how easy she’ll give up the money in that bag.”
Chapter 64
Jenny drove the familiar route determined to end Kimi’s stupidity. Something strange happened on the way. It started with the sign on the highway announcing Ross Ridge and continued with the trees bending toward the road. Peace settled over her shoulders. It was like Grams was telling her everything would be all right.
She slowed as she passed the cabin. Had she seen a light in the woods? She slowed even further. It could be someone out camping. Though offseason, the Florida weather drew those odd few who wanted to visit.
A quick glance across the street at the dark house showed the McKilty’s were down for the night.
Ross Ridge had always been her favorite spot. This was the one place she could get away from the rest of the world without driving for hours. But now Kimi had turned Gram’s home into a place no longer to be enjoyed.
Jenny strangled the steering wheel. From this point forward, she’d only see it as the place Kimi held her nephew against his will.
Chapter 66
The hole was getting there, but Myrna had to make sure it was deep enough no animals would dig him up. A shudder raced over her back. That’d be the last thing he deserved. No, he should be allowed to rest in peace.
Tears welled in her eyes. She brushed them back.
Death could be so hard.
Though chilly out, she was coated with sweat. No point in complaining about it; just get the job done. She pressed the shovel into the ground, pressed her foot on top of the blade and removed dirt. Shoveled, pressed, removed. Shoveled, pressed, removed.
After a few more minutes she rested.
“Mrrr.” Ginger stared up at her.
“One more scoop.” She wiped her brow and dug in. “There. Let’s get some rest.” She scanned the hole. Pretty much there. Her legs were sore, so she used the shovel to aid in her walking while the flashlight guided her way. Who would have thought this would be such hard work?
On the driveway, she stopped at the blue car. She walked up and shined the light inside.
“What a dump.” Old fast-food wrappers and three cups littered the inside. It reeked of stale cigarettes.
Could she be a friend hiding from an abusive husband or something like that?
A laugh escaped under her breath. Harold would have a field day with that one. Her and her mysteries.
Headlights shined around the curve.
There was no time to get home. She flipped off the flashlight and backed up into the woods to the left, across from the parked car. She hoped no one would think to look behind them.
Chapter 65
Tracy stared at the clock. Not even midnight. She’d wanted to be fully awake when they confronted Kimi but there was no point in lying around tossing and turning. She got up and walked out of her bedroom. She glanced to her left. As much as she’d like to think this was a nightmare and DJ was tucked away safely in his bed, she knew differently.
She plodded down the stairs, each step heavier than the last. A yawn escaped. Was it from lack of sleep or that stupid sleeping pill?
All this time she’d blamed Daniel when it had to have been Jenny. And her sister had stopped by the morning before DJ went missing.
“She wanted to drop by and say hello, my foot. No wonder she acted surprised to see me home.” Jenny hadn’t known DJ had the day off from school on Friday.
Tracy’s shoulders felt heavy. She twisted her neck, hoping to get the tension out.
DJ gone. Daniel dead. She couldn’t help but blame Jenny for it all. Tracy jerked a teacup from the cupboard. How could she ever forgive her for all this?
While she waited for the water to heat in the microwave, she stared in the sink. All her blame directed at the wrong person. A lump formed in her throat when she recalled Daniel’s final words to her. If I kill anyone for money, it’ll be you. So much hatred in his eyes.
The microwave beeped, startling her.
She dunked a chamomile tea bag in and out of the cup of hot water. After scanning through her e-mail and responding to all the well-
wishers, she turned to a local news site. Not that she expected anything to have happened in the last couple of hours. If DJ had been found, Jenny would have called.
On the front page of the Channel 12 News website was DJ’s smiling face. Tracy touched his cheek with her finger. The screen switched to the news story. She didn’t want to read it, so she tapped the backspace button.
“Please be all right.” She spoke to DJ’s picture. “I hate to think what you’re going through. By lunch, I hope you’ll be home where you belong.”
The thought should have added some comfort to her, instead irritation gnawed at Jenny for putting her through this. Always thinking of herself. Even when DJ was a baby, she’d show up out of the blue, now she held it over Tracy’s head, trying to make it sound like Tracy couldn’t handle it.
She closed her eyes and took in a deep breath. There’d not be any sleeping with all this anger.
Tracy stared at DJ’s face. “You’ll be home soon. I know it.”
No matter how she tried to convince herself, a gnawing feeling in the pit of her stomach said this nightmare was far from over.
Chapter 67
Jenny had everything planned out. If Kimi didn’t accept the money, Jenny swore to herself, she’d call the police. Once Kimi pointed a finger in Jenny’s direction, she’d scoff at the notion. Why would she bring money if she were the one responsible? It was a kidnapping, and Kimi the culprit. Pure and simple.
No way would someone believe a stripper over an award-winning nurse married to a state representative. DJ meant to much to her. She’d even taken him on the campaign trail with her. Not one person would believe she’d put her nephew through this.
It shouldn’t take much to convince the police she’d received the prepaid cell phone from the kidnapper followed by a ransom call.
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