Deadly Bonds

by Anne Marie Becker

  “Me? Why?”

  “Researching SSAM surely led him to information about why you founded this company. It’s no secret that you had a daughter who’d been the victim of a serial killer. Chad White was a father who’d recently lost a child. Just as he thought he could relate to me because we both had sons and had lost loved ones to cancer, he felt a connection with you too. Some kind of bond through a father’s grief, but twisted by his mission.”

  “This research...did it go deeper?”

  “In October, he apparently found some interesting information online.”

  Einstein interrupted. “I’ve searched the links he found and they’re all dead now, the sites obliterated by someone, but Chad copied the information when he found it. He saved it to a computer file.”

  Damian nearly squirmed with impatience. “What information?”

  “It seems he thought Samantha’s disappearance could have been linked to human trafficking, and in particular, the sex-slave industry. And I have to say, judging by what I could find, he may have been on to something.”

  Damian’s heart raced. “Sex slave? But she was found dead. Dental records proved it.” But due to decomposition, analysis of the scene hadn’t been able to determine whether Sam had been sexually assaulted.

  “Maybe. Or maybe this ring, which my quick inquiries indicate has been known to operate by stealing healthy, beautiful girls and shipping them to whoever pays the highest price, faked her death and planted evidence that would throw you off their trail when they realized how determined and powerful you were.”

  “Are you saying Sam might not have been killed? She might be alive?” Forget a racing heart, Damian feared his had just stopped beating.

  Chapter Twenty-Six

  December

  Sara pinned a white orchid in her hair. “Do you like it?”

  Theo grinned. “You look beautiful.”

  She took a deep breath. “I feel great. Like the luckiest woman on earth. I get to officially join a fabulous family today.” It had all happened so fast, but, then again, she’d loved Holt for years. Given recent events, there was no reason to wait any longer to begin a new life.

  “I’ll go tell them you’re ready.”

  “Tell them to give me three minutes. I want to make a quick phone call.” Whether it was nerves or excitement that coursed through her veins, she wanted to share the moment with Cheryl.

  “Okay, but Dad says if you want it perfect, it should be at sunset, and that big orange ball is getting closer to the water.”

  She laughed and impulsively leaned forward to kiss his forehead. He looked up at her in surprise, then smiled. His acceptance sobered her as emotion pricked at her chest. Elizabeth had created this special boy, and now Sara was lucky enough to love him. “I’m so blessed to have you.”

  “Yeah, I’m kind of great. And soon, I’ll even be able to beat you at chess.” He grinned and she laughed again, the bittersweet moment over. “See you in three.”

  Theo slid the glass door open and pulled it closed. Her eyes tracked him as he hurried across the small patio of the beach villa Holt had rented in Acapulco. Sand flew up under his bare feet as he ran down the beach toward the pounding surf. Two men waited there—Holt and the official they’d found to perform the ceremony.

  Cheryl answered on the first ring. “Is it over? Are you Missus Doctor Patterson?”

  “Not yet. Very soon, though.”

  “Then what are you waiting for?”

  Sara sighed. “Just wanted some female support, I guess.”

  “Did you find the box I put in your carry-on?”

  Sara’s hand went to her neck, her fingers running across the smooth pearls. “I did. Thank you for the something borrowed. It almost feels like you’re here.”

  “Oh, hon. You know I’d be there if I could.” Cheryl was watching Roscoe for them, and Mr. Cheryl didn’t travel well anymore.

  “I know. We’ll be home in a few days, anyway.”

  “Oh!” Cheryl exclaimed. “And I have news for you. You received a letter from the school board. Shall I open it?”

  Sara smoothed a hand nervously over her dress. “Sure, I guess.”

  “Well, I already did, and it’s good news. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have mentioned it today, of course. The school board is dropping its investigation. In light of how you dealt with the three students when Chad held you all hostage, they’ve judged you to be quality material.” Cheryl snorted. “I could have told them that. There’s even talk here of a new drama department. And, apparently Neil talked to them on your behalf.”

  “Neil? Really?”

  “I spoke to his mother a couple days ago and she’s proud to say Neil has recommitted to studying hard and finishing high school on a positive note. He’s applying to local universities so he can stay close to his family for a bit. Plans to study physical therapy. His backup plan is to go into the Army and train to become a doctor and maybe, eventually, pursue a future in sports medicine. Claire said he was influenced by the Toxin investigation and his dad’s bullying and wants a career that will make the world a better place.”

  “Good for him.” She didn’t doubt that he’d make it work.

  “It’s good all around, so go out there and make it the best day ever. Holt’s waiting.”

  And Sara had been waiting forever for him. “I’ll call you soon.”

  “It’d better be as Mrs. Patterson.”

  * * *

  Holt’s breath caught and he squeezed Theo’s hand.

  “Told you,” his son said smugly.

  “You were right, she is beautiful.”

  Sara closed the door to their villa and gave a little wave. She was a vision in a white sundress with delicate lavender-colored flowers printed on it. She’d left her hair down and it caught in the breeze, lifting tendrils and sending them dancing across her shoulders and bare arms. Her bouquet of white orchids matched the one in her hair.

  “She’s ours now?” Theo asked.

  “She’s ours. Forever.”

  As she walked down the beach toward him, the hem of her skirt playfully swirled around her slender legs. Just like that day months ago, at the school picnic, when she’d walked back into his life. This time, he’d make sure she stayed.

  * * * * *

  Keep reading for an excerpt from Dark Deeds by Anne Marie Becker

  Heart-racing and full of suspense!

  Pick up these latest releases from Anne Marie Becker today!

  Only Fear

  After a violent incident with a patient leaves scars on both her mind and body, psychiatrist Dr. Maggie Levine craves isolation. A radio talk show host seems to be the perfect profession, a job where she can help people from a distance while staying safe. When a strange caller begins stalking her on the air and murdering people to get her attention, Maggie realizes she can no longer close herself off from the outside world.

  A personal security expert, former Secret Service Agent Ethan Townsend is no stranger to tracking down the most violent monsters of society and bringing them to justice. Still, it will take all of Ethan’s skills to protect his new assignment, the irresistible Maggie, from a man intent on teaching her the ultimate lesson in fear...

  Avenging Angel

  When his friend’s niece is murdered, Detective Noah Crandall vows to track down the killer. Since the victim worked in an art gallery with the well-connected and well-heeled Vanessa Knight, Noah questions her first. Despite the chemistry between them, Noah tells himself a relationship would be impossible. He’s a loner and their backgrounds are worlds apart.

  Drawn to Noah and horrified by the death of her intern, Vanessa shares her insights into the New York City art world. As they work together on the case, she’s tempted to explore the possibility of a real relationship with the sexy outsider who ignites her desire. But what Vanessa doesn’t realize is that in order to complete his gruesome series of paintings, the killer
has targeted her to become his next victim...

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  About the Author

  An award-winning author of romantic suspense, Anne Marie Becker has always been fascinated with people and how they “work”—inside and out—which led to degrees in biology, psychology and counseling. Now her roles as wife, mother, writer and domestic goddess satisfy her curiosity. She explores the dark side of criminal behavior and the saving powers of love and hope through her Mindhunters series. For more about Anne Marie, please visit her at www.AnneMarieBecker.com.

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  Chapter One

  Friday, 4:03 p.m., early February

  Hoboken, New Jersey

  Becca followed the instructions—both parts—to the letter. She’d told no one, and she arrived at the diner alone. The window that separated her from the sleet-slick street outside proclaimed the breakfast specials in ketchup-red and mustard-yellow stencil, which only accentuated the day’s shades of gray.

  Then again, it was February. In Hoboken.

  “Another refill?” The waitress’s attitude had gone from cheerful to weary over the past hour.

  “No, thanks.” Three cups had already shifted her usual state of heightened awareness into downright jittery territory. It went against all her self-protective instincts—and in a personal security specialist and bodyguard, those were strong—to continue to sit and wait, but she wanted this interview. Had worked for months to chase down this lead that might provide new information about Samantha Manchester’s disappearance. The trail had been cold for twenty years, which was why Becca needed Selina. So she didn’t protest when the tired waitress misheard her and moved to top off her cup yet again.

  Her hand shook slightly—adrenaline and caffeine were a potent mix—as she lifted her cup to her lips. She set it down too hard, sloshing a bit over the rim, splashing droplets onto the table. As she reached for the napkin dispenser, the tiny diamond stud in her nose reflected in the metal surface, winking at her like sun on snow. During the weeks they’d exchanged emails, Becca had learned that eighteen-year-old Selina loved piercings, extreme hair color and all things city-chic, so Becca had opted to wear the stud she normally removed for her daily job. Her nearly white-blond hair was a constant. Still a year shy of thirty, Becca was short enough, her appearance young enough, to get away with wearing ripped jeans and a T-shirt advertising a popular punk band.

  Another minute ticked by. Resigned, she took out her phone and sent the text she’d been composing in her mind. So sorry. Going to miss rehearsal but will be at party. Will make it up to you.

  She was, technically, in New York City to serve as a bridesmaid in a wedding, but the proximity to this lead in Hoboken had been crucial to her decision to fly in early. However, she hadn’t counted on her lead being late for their appointment. She was going to miss the next train back to the city.

  A moment later, Vanessa texted a reply. Because of Diego?

  Becca’s body went still. Months ago, she’d reconciled herself to seeing her ex-lover again, since Diego was the groom’s best man. She was dreading it, but she would pull on her big girl panties for the sake of her friends’ wedding. Vanessa and Noah deserved happiness.

  She texted back. No. Work.

  I know this weekend is tough for you. If you want to talk, I’m here.

  Though Becca appreciated the offer, sharing wasn’t in the cards. Her two-week affair with Diego last summer would be forever locked away in a vault in the back of her mind. Unfortunately, her masochistic side occasionally whipped out those memories like little jewels and re-examined them in all their sparkling, stunning detail.

  A young woman peeked through the diner’s ketchup-and-mustard window and Becca hastily returned Vanessa’s text. See you soon.

  Swallowed up by a trench coat that appeared secondhand, the woman looked all of twelve years old, especially when she rapidly blinked away snowflakes as if she were lost and confused. But the highlights in her hair were expensive—not homegrown, but from a quality salon. She winced as the tinkling of a bell announced her entrance, then she spied Becca in the corner.

  With halting steps, as if she were facing a firing squad, she made her way to the table. “Becca?”

  “That’s me.” Becca smiled warmly and gestured to the opposite side of the booth. “Thank you for coming.”

  After another glance around, Selina slid onto the bench. “I almost didn’t, but I had to meet the woman who thinks she can take down the Circle.” Selina’s gaze flicked over her. “Kind of small, aren’t you?”

  “The best things come in small packages.” It was something Becca’s brothers used to say to her, before ruffling her hair. Or trying out the latest wrestling moves on her. Not that they’d dared to attempt such a thing in years, not since she’d shown up to a family dinner wearing her black belt in Tae Kwon Do. “I’m tougher than I look.” And at five and a half feet tall, she wasn’t that tiny.

  “Me, too.” For an eighteen-year-old, Selina’s eyes were hard with life experience, her jaw set in concrete.

  “You’d have to be tough, to survive what you’ve been through.”

  The waitress approached, some semblance of her cheerful smile back in place at the prospect of another paying customer. Selina ordered a cup of coffee, then waited until the waitress was at the other end of the diner before speaking. “How’d you find me?”

  “I’d been looking for anything about the Circle. You were mentioned in a police report.”

  Selina stiffened. “There’s not supposed to be anything to connect me to them.”

  “It was under your previous name, not your new one. That took some more digging. The rest you know.”

  “You bribed my friend for my email address.”

  “Pretty much.” There had been weeks of trust-building there, too, during which they’d exchanged increasingly lengthy emails until Becca had convinced Selina she could be trusted.

  Selina ducked her head, pretending to be absorbed in stirring her coffee. “You believe the police report?”

  Becca sensed her response was critical to the success of this interview. “There was very little to it, which surprised me. You were a witness, a survivor, one of a kind, who could have testified against a major crime syndicate. But then you disappeared. I’m guessing the former is the motivation for the latter.”

  Selina set aside her spoon and met Becca’s gaze. “I’m only here because you think you can take those monsters down. I want to help, but…”

  “But you’re afraid. I don’t blame you for not trusting anyone. I know what the Circle is capable of. I’ve been gathering information on them for months now. I’ve read every police report I could get my hands on from Chicago to New York to Las Vegas.”

  “To find out if they took this Samantha Manchester girl like they took me.”

  “Yes, but she was taken in Chicago, so it’s a little different. My boss at SSAM—”

  “Damian Manchester…he’s Samantha’s father?”

  Becca nodded. “Sam was thirteen years old when she was taken from a mall in the North Shore area of Chicago twenty years ago. A year later, they found her skeletal remains in a wooded, rural area outside of the city.”

  Selina shuddered. “That could have been me
. If I hadn’t been rescued, death would have been the easy way out.”

  “Except she might not have died.”

  Selina looked up sharply. “What?”

  “Recently, we found evidence that suggests it might not have been Sam’s body in that shallow grave after all. The Circle may have taken her, then faked her death and identification to throw the police and Damian off the trail.” It was precious little to go on, but it was something new, when hope of finding justice had nearly been lost.

  Becca waited a moment and watched Selina absorb her words before she continued. “From what I’ve learned, I believe the Circle deals in the trading of human flesh, including sex slaves and children for pornographic purposes. You were almost one of their victims.” That was only a part of their extensive operation, and looking for information about Samantha had been like trying to chip away at an iceberg, searching for that one bit of helpful information.

  “Help me stop them,” Becca pleaded when Selina remained quietly thoughtful.

  “You don’t know for sure that the Circle was involved in Sam’s disappearance.”

  “True. That’s why I need your help. You’re the only person known to have escaped the Circle and survived.” Others had been killed before they could testify. Selina had taken off before she could suffer the same fate. And the police report had been notably vague.

  Selina seemed to weigh this, then sat back, her shoulders dipping a notch as she made her decision. “It’s not a pretty story.”

  “In my line of work, few stories are.”

  “You see this kind of thing at SSAM often?”

  The acronym for Damian’s agency, the Society for the Study of the Aberrant Mind, was a tribute to his daughter Sam. SSAM’s clientele enlisted Becca and her fellow agents to hunt violent repeat offenders when local law enforcement agencies or FBI failed to apprehend the criminals, for whatever reason—often a lack of resources or a case that had gone cold or fallen out of the public eye.