Weapon of Desire

by Brook, L M

  “I know that last night was terrifying for you but I want to assure you that we are making headway with new leads and witness statements, we’re also convinced that their intention wasn’t to kill you but the result of a foiled kidnap.”

  I am shocked as I look to Anthony for answers. He remains quiet waiting for Detective Stevens to continue.

  “The Range Rover was caught on the A14 cameras. We tracked the registration back to a German company that deals in military supplies. They confirmed that the car was stolen two weeks ago.” Detective Stevens produces the captured picture of the car. I hold it shuddering as I recognise the clear faces of the passenger and driver.

  “That is definitely them,” handing the photo back to him.

  “Ms Brooks, I understand your brothers deal in military supplies? We’re going to need to speak to them as they may have crucial information that could help solve these crimes.” Detective Stevens inserts the photo back inside an envelope.

  “Are they in trouble?” I’m immediately worried for their safety.

  “No, they may not even know of the company.” The Detective looks down before looking at both Anthony and Daniel. “You’re not safe alone here and you’ll need to move to a secure location. We’re going to hold onto your car for further forensic analysis so you’re going to need some support.” Before he speaks he looks to Anthony who nods approvingly. “Mr Hunt can offer you a secure location and chauffeured transportation.”

  Daniel furiously interjects. “I can look after Darcey so that won’t be necessary.” He moves to stand alongside me as I feel awkward at the offer, not wanting to be indebted to anyone.

  Anthony talks for the first time after clearly thinking long and hard about all of my options and most probably constructed his plan to ensure that I didn’t spend another night under the same roof as Daniel.

  “Who’ll support Darcey when you fly to Russia on assignment with Ms Stone this Friday?”

  Oh yes, Anthony has done his homework. How did he know they were going to Russia on Friday? The comment was piercing and from the look on Daniel’s face Anthony had cut to his core.

  Daniel is nearly frothing at the mouth knowing how this will sound to me. “Anthony you’ll do anything to get between me and Darcey, I don’t stand a chance.” He storms out of my apartment as I stare in disbelief.

  After all Daniel’s promises, his attempt to prove himself trustworthy and committed, he fails miserably at the first hurdle. I take a deep breath knowing that Anthony is my only option for safety and I trust him completely knowing that he has my welfare at heart. “Anthony I don’t want to be a hindrance at your family home, are you sure they’ll not mind?”

  Anthony wears an enormous smile “Darcey you’re more than welcome, they’re preparing a room in anticipation of your arrival.”

  Detective Stevens looks relieved as I assume that Anthony has forewarned him that Daniel will be against this decision. “Ms Brooks hopefully it won’t be for too long.”

  I smile thankful for their support “Ok I’ll pack some clothes, how long do I have?”

  “I’ll wait with Nick in the car. Text me when you’ve finished and I’ll come to collect your bags.” Anthony walks towards me and gently runs a finger over my patched up cheek. He then turns to Detective Stevens and thanks him for his assistance.

  “Ms Brooks, we’ll contact your brothers and I’ll keep you informed of any further developments. Here’s my business card, should you remember anything else please call me.” Detective Stevens leaves walking with Anthony downstairs.

  Staring at my clothes hanging in the wardrobe I’m in a quandary as to what I should pack. I know that Anthony’s mother lives in a house set in 43 acres and therefore decide on warm jackets, sweaters, shirts, jeans, woollen skirts and thick tights not forgetting my leather riding boots. I tip my underwear drawer upside down into the case and then finish off with my overflowing toiletries bag and a hairdryer. That should do it! I spot my iPhone, laptop and handbag as I wheel the case into the lounge and then text Anthony.

  Sitting on the sofa I zip up my leather, heeled boots and then stand to open the door to Anthony who enters with a reassuring smile.

  “Ready? Got everything you need?”

  “Yup, I think so.” I take a last look around the apartment before following Anthony down to the car where he waits holding open the rear door as Nick tucks my case into the boot. This is an extraordinary emotion putting all my trust into this man I’ve known for only one week and I’m for once lost for words to express how I’m feeling. Sitting silent in the back seat, Anthony grabs my hand and Nick smiles in the rear mirror.

  “Do you like Coldplay Darcey?” Nick is so sweet as he tries to lighten the moment.

  “Yes, I love them.” I smile in return as Anthony rubs his thumb on the back of my hand.

  “Great, we’re going to get on fine.” Nick presses a button on the stereo and wonderful violins strike up “Viva La Vida.”

  Travelling through winding country roads that seems to go on forever we eventually turn into a narrow, tree lined, gravel lane. We reach an entrance with brick pillars and iron gates flanked by high hedging and security cameras indicating our arrival at Sebel House. Cold Play sings of “paradise” as a beautiful Palladian, country house standing in front of a lake drifts into view. My eyes widen and a “wow” spontaneously leaves my mouth. The three storey, white house with Georgian bay windows looks stunning set against immaculate striped lawns.

  Nick stops at the main entrance which is framed by an impressive portico. A Malaysian older lady dressed in a pink checked shift dress with a white apron opens the door to greet us.

  “Good morning Anthony, Nick.”

  “Good morning Rosie, this is Darcey.” Anthony is still holding my hand as I step out of the car smiling at the gentle lady standing in front of me.

  Nick walks towards us carrying my case and kisses Rosie on the cheek. “Good morning Rosie.”

  “Rosie is our cherished housekeeper and nothing’s any bother for her. Anything you want, she’s onto it.” Anthony is obviously very fond of her.

  I hold out my hand to greet her “It’s lovely to meet you Rosie.” She is very sincere grasping my hand with both of hers and tilting her head.

  A mature couple arrives from inside the house and walk towards the car. He is tall, burly with grey hair and she is bubbly with short blond hair wearing stylish glasses. Both are dressed smartly. He’s in dark jeans, a big buckled belt and a yellow checked shirt and she in a stunning sea green, knitted dress, hanging pearls and brown leather boots. As they reach the car they are genuinely welcoming with beaming smiles as they both notice Anthony clutching my hand tightly.

  “Darcey, this is Ma and Pa.” Anthony acknowledges his hand still holding mine and releases his clasp with a tender smile in my direction.

  His mother moves closer taking both of my shoulders into a hug and kissing both cheeks “Hello Darcey, it’s so good to meet you after hearing nothing but your name since Anthony joined Dorton.”

  I blush a little at the comment. “It’s lovely to meet you too Mrs Hunt.”

  “Please Darcey call me Freya, everyone does.” She moves back to let Anthony’s father greet me.

  “Hello Darcey, I’m Tom.” He pulls me into a manly squeeze. “I hope you’ve brought your walking boots with you, we’re going hunting tomorrow?” Anthony’s Pa reminded me of my late father with big protective arms and a warm face.

  “That sounds fun! I hope I’m not putting you out with my unexpected arrival?” I feel uneasy turning up with a suitcase for the first time that I meet Anthony’s parents.

  “Nonsense, it’ll be lovely having someone else in the house. Rosie has prepared the second floor suite for you. This was once upon a time Anthony’s teenage retreat, with his own lounge, bathroom and spare room for guests. But don’t worry it’s been refurbished twice since then.” Freya smiles sweetly as she reassuringly grasps my hand.

  “Nick, I’ll take the
case up to Darcey’s room so that Rosie can unpack.” Tom lifts the case and moves inside followed by Rosie.

  Still holding my hand Freya escorts me into the house. The patterned, stone lined entrance hall introduces me to a further central hall where straight ahead a beamed oak staircase with ornate twisted balustrade rises upwards to a galleried landing. Two doors either side of the hall reveal a formal dining room in creams and rich golds which could easily seat at least twenty with a grand marble fireplace at one end of the room. Opposite is a drawing room with book cases, comfy peppermint sofas and a roaring open fire. Beyond the staircase we enter a gigantic kitchen, dining room with another lounge in an orangery. The kitchen is handmade in walnut with black marble counters and a separate breakfast bar island. A chef dressed in his whites is preparing lunch. He is tall, middle aged with short swept back, jet black hair.

  “Darcey this is Marc, he has been Head Chef with us for over 15 years. Marc lives on site in one of the cottages with his wife Carla and son Darius.” Freya picks up menus from the breakfast bar as I shake hands with Marc. “Darius is also learning his father’s skills working alongside Marc.” Freya peeks inside the saucepan where Marc is stirring.

  “Marc has prepared menus for the next two weeks and Darcey I’d love you to take a look and let me know if there’s anything that you don’t particularly like. Don’t be shy and of course if you desire something else just let Marc know.” Freya hands me the menu.

  “Thank you, I’m sure I’ll love everything, I’m not a fussy eater and going by the aroma coming from this kitchen I’m going to be thoroughly spoilt.” Marc grins as he continues to stir his broth.

  I can see Anthony taking a call on his mobile as he moves back into the hallway.

  “Darcey we have a number of staff who live on site including Marc and Rosie. Ian is our Head Groundsman who Tom will introduce you to and of course Nick is Head of Security.”

  Freya beckons me to walk with her to a further room off the kitchen, dining room. “Darcey feel free to come and go as you please, I don’t want you to feel like a prisoner and we certainly don’t expect you to eat every meal with us. That’s why we’ve given you the suite on the second floor.” She turns to smile “Of course you’re very welcome to eat with us for breakfast, lunch and dinner if you wish.”

  Freya opens a door to a mahogany panelled room with leather Chesterfields. A central heavy wooden coffee table displays glass chess pieces standing to attention in front of another crackling fire.

  “This is Tom’s den.” Freya rolls her eyes as Tom joins us. “Most of the time you’ll find him in here.” She moves towards double doors that lead into a carpeted dark red room with luxurious cinema sofas and an enormous screen on the wall. “This is our home cinema room. Anthony installed it as a surprise about nine years ago. We love it and use it all the time.”

  “Yes Darcey come and join us for a movie anytime, we love all the old ones.” Tom gives Freya a loving cuddle. I feel overwhelmed by the affection that I’m shown by Anthony and his family and my heart sings but also tainted by sorrow as I think of my lonely mother. I remember that I must call her this morning.

  “Darcey, let’s show you to your room.” I follow Freya as we climb the majestic staircase up to the second floor.

  The views are stunning looking out over the front lake. My four poster bed is dressed in crisp white sheets with silver grey fur cushions and a throw. Beige velvet curtains frame the windows with bronzed elaborately carved wooden bedside tables and headboard. A single door opens onto a bathroom with a roll top bath positioned in the window with views out over the surrounding fields. Further double doors from the bedroom lead through to a lounge with matching silver grey sofas arranged either side of an open fire with beige fur rugs. I had to close my mouth to disguise my amazement at this splendid house or more appropriate palace!

  “Your house is beautifully furnished and so inviting.” Freya watches me attentively from the bedroom. My mobile rings in my handbag interrupting my moment of tranquillity. Peering inside my bag at my phone I can see it is Mum.

  “I’ll go and make some tea and coffee.” Freya leaves the room with a wave as I accept the call.

  “Hi Mum.” I stand at the window in the lounge staring at the trees in the distance.

  “Hi darling, how are you, Daniel has just left. Why didn’t you call me?” Mum sounds fretful and confused.

  “I’m sorry Mum it’s been really hectic, I was going to call you this morning.” I sigh a little knowing that she is worried especially as Daniel has got to her first.

  “Daniel tells me he took you to the hospital, are you ok?” she obviously has heard every detail from him.

  “Yes he took me there last night but I only have a few scratches and cuts, nothing to worry about Mum.” I can sense that this is not allaying her fears.

  “Darcey, he told me that the detective is concerned for your safety and that Anthony has taken control of the whole situation. Where are you now?” I can’t tell whether Mum is relieved or still worried.

  “Mum I’m with Anthony at his parents’ home and I’m fine. There is good security here and I’m safe.” I hope that she is happier with my version of how Anthony has offered a safe environment and not controlling the situation.

  “Daniel is distraught, beside himself, he said he had proposed to you but you said no.” I now sense the real reason for her unease. Mum wants me happily married with kids and I’ve turned this down and run away with Anthony.

  “I’m sorry Mum that Daniel is upset but I can’t marry someone who I no longer trust. I’m very thankful for his support last night but I can’t offer him anything else.” I take a deep breath as I watch the clouds float softly by. Mum is very quiet and I’ve an urge to see her right now to assure her that I’m ok.

  “Darcey, as long as you are safe. All I want is for you to be happy.” She is calm and her words are heartfelt.

  “Mum, Anthony does make me happy. I’ll come and see you soon I promise. Love you.” I end the call turning to search for Anthony.

  I jump as I see him sitting on the sofa in my lounge watching me with a smile spread across his face. How long had he been sitting there? He holds out an open hand to indicate me to join him. Standing in front of him I hold his hand as we stare at each other. He strokes my leg; easing me closer then softly kisses the back of my hand.

  “Are you ok Darcey?” Anthony’s eyes are deep and meaningful.

  “Yes I’m fine.” I smile down at him as he moves to the edge of his seat.

  “Darcey, just say if you want to see your Mum, Nick can take you.” He strokes my hand and I know he is worried that I may feel trapped here.

  “Anthony, would you mind if I saw her after lunch?”

  “Not at all, Nick can drop me into Dorton on the way and then on your return he can also collect me.” I’m pleased that Anthony is not muscling in on my visit as I need time alone with my Mum. “Come on let’s go and get a coffee and lunch.” Not letting go of my hand we walk downstairs to join Freya and Tom in the kitchen.

  The table is laid for lunch and Nick, Rosie and Marc join us for spicy pumpkin soup with homemade Rosemary bread. The conversation is light and funny with Nick and Tom competing to tell embarrassing stories of Anthony, particularly emphasising his poor hunting and golf skills. Anthony enjoys the banter and watches me laugh heartily with one hand softly dancing on my thigh. His eyes are full of happiness and I relish seeing this relaxed, easy going side to his nature. Tom and Freya look on cheerfully as I suppose this has been a difficult year for all of them.

  Nick drives Anthony and me to Dorton. The security guards wave us in and the engine hums as we sit together in the back of the car.

  “Say hello to Rosemary for me. Nick will wait outside for you until you are ready to return.” Anthony lightly traces his finger along my chin drawing me closer.

  Our lips touch and that fire relights inside me. He effortlessly turns on that switch and I instantly want more. My tongu
e brushes his lips as my fingers delve into the hair at the nape of his neck. I close my eyes as I breathe in his scent while running a hand down his chest. What does he do to me?

  “Later Darcey!” Anthony whispers and turns to exit the car. I’m suddenly confused, am I being too pushy, needy? Perhaps I’m reading the signs wrong.

  Mum is pleased to see me with a hug and kiss and then wincing she touches the scars on my cheek. I follow her through to the kitchen.

  “Have you got to get those stitches checked again?” she is tense as she opens the kitchen door. There leaning against the kitchen counter is Daniel. Mum’s face is stony as she tries to read my expression. Daniel was furious when he walked out of my apartment this morning but now looks very calm or possibly too relaxed.

  “Daniel… Mum didn’t tell me you were going to be here.” I glare at Mum disapprovingly. She blushes at being sneaky behind my back.

  “Darcey, he needs to speak to you.” Mum leaves the room and Daniel sways a little as he walks towards me.

  “Darcey, I want you and I’m not giving up. You’re mine and always will be.” Daniel grabs my hands as I can smell alcohol on his breath. “I want us move in together, get married and have kids, I know that you want that too.”

  “Daniel, have you been drinking?” I step backwards, pulling away my hands.

  “Yes.” He steps forward holding my face. “Darcey we still love each other and I can prove it.”

  I’m anxious about what is going to happen next and my eyes are ice cold in anticipation. I can’t speak and my limbs feel weighted to the spot.

  “Darcey, I’m going to kiss you and you will still feel that same passion we have for each other.” Daniel moves closer and our lips touch, he softly opens my mouth with his tongue and pulls me into his space.

  I can feel his warm chest against mine and I resist the impulse to kiss him. He does not take no for an answer and steps up the heat with his lapping tongue. My head is in a swirl and my heart races as my tongue responds to his touch. I know this man and remember how good we can be together. His lust grows as his hands wander hungrily under my skirt. My thoughts turn him and Melissa as I pull my mouth away making distance between us with my forearms.