by Vella Day
He held open the convenient store door for her and checked out the lot. With his hand pressed to the small of her back, he led her to the car.
She looked up at him with a slight smile. “You don't have to hover.”
He opened his mouth wide and tapped his chest. Something about flirting with her helped take his mind off the ugliness in the world. “Is that a complaint?”
“I was merely wondering if you were staying close to make me feel safe?”
“Not entirely. I like being cautious when it comes to your safety, that's all.”
“Oh.”
Once Susan slid into the passenger seat, he walked over to his side, noticing a piece of paper that sat under the wiper blade, flapping in the wind. He hated this kind of advertisement. Most people were probably just passing through. Why waste the ad on a bunch of transients?
He glanced at the cars to either side of them. None had ads on them. Curious, he slipped the paper from the blade and stilled.
Jake must have been staring at the message for too long because Susan opened up her door and came over to his side.
“What is it?”
He debated not telling her, but he decided because her life was in danger, she needed to understand the circumstances. “Seems our mystery man is taunting us.”
Jake checked out the cars at the pump and those parked nearby but noticed nothing out of the ordinary. Susan slipped next to him, and he could smell a hint of fresh soap on her.
“Tell me.” She grabbed his wrist.
“It says: Only one more to go, and then you'll be next.”
Her eyes widened. She leaned back against the car. “He was here?”
“Apparently.”
“You think he's still around?” Susan's knees buckled and her body slid down the car. Jake reached out to catch her. Without thinking, he gathered her in his arms. He expected her to pull away. Instead, she wrapped her arms around his waist. He wanted to bring her comfort in the form of dragging a finger down her cheek, touching her, holding her in his arms for a long time, but he didn't dare.
With his chin on her head, he scanned the parking lot for anyone suspicious, but came up empty-handed.
She buried her face in his chest. “I'm so scared.”
So was he, but he'd never voice that opinion. He liked being the strong one. Holding her touched something inside him, something fundamental, something he needed. He placed a gentle kiss on the top of her head. She looked up with a mixture of surprise and terror before she broke the connection.
He lifted her chin. “I will do everything in my power to protect you.”
She blinked, pressed her lips together and lowered her gaze. A tear streaked down her cheek. “I thought the car explosion was the worst thing to happen to me, but this teasing, this torment by this crazy person is ripping me apart.”
Helplessness grabbed him. He was highly trained to deal with psychos, but when it came to dealing with an intelligent, independent woman like Susan Chapman, he was lost.
His agent training kicked into gear. “Get in the car.”
Protecting her with his body, he angled her into the passenger side, then jogged to his side, and then climbed in. He started the engine and peeled out of the lot. “We have to warn Mr. Cho. Then we have to hide.”
Jake stole quick glances at Susan as they continued to drive north. If the strong jut of her jaw was any indication, she seemed to have a hold of her emotions. Not to mention her lack of tears. His admiration grew.
The drive to western North Carolina took them another ninety minutes. Even though he'd paid extra for the Jeep's upgraded GPS package, the advanced technology couldn't find the remote Sunset Drive where Gary Cho was safely tucked away.
“Maybe we should stop in town and ask for directions,” she said.
Jake checked his mirrors. “I'll drive around a little longer.”
“You are such a guy.”
“It's that I don't like letting the world know we're here.”
“Good point, but—”
“But if we don't find Cho soon, my driving around aimlessly could cost the man his life. I get it.”
She smiled. “You do read minds, don't you?”
He winked and pulled into the next gas station. No luck. The quaint 1950's style diner proved to be a bust too, as did the used car dealership. No one knew where Sunset drive was—or else no one wanted to tell them where the place was. Small towns were often protective of their members.
“I bet the Sheriff's office will know,” she said.
Law enforcement was the last place he wanted to visit. Tell a cop, tell the FBI. “I want to try one more place.”
He drove down 64 and headed into Pisgah National Forest. About a mile in, he saw signs to the Ranger Station. “If anyone will know where remote places are, it'll be the ranger.”
Around three, they entered the station, the cool crisp air chilling them. The small store had more visitors than he'd expected this time of year.
An older gentleman in a park uniform proudly directed them to the back. Jake knocked on the ranger's open door and stepped in. He was greeted by a friendly smile.
“What can I do for you folks?”
Jake liked the man's open face and handlebar mustache. “We're looking for Sunset Drive.”
“You looking for Paul Henley's place?”
Thank God someone knew the location of Sunset drive. Jake flashed his badge and the man merely nodded. “We have someone in protective custody there.”
The ranger pulled open his drawer and spread out a map. “Take 276 up to the Blue Ridge Parkway and hang a left at this mile marker.” The ranger pointed out a few ways to reach their destination once on the gravel road.
“Appreciate the information.”
They shook hands and left. On the way out, Jake did his usual scouting routine. The same number of cars that were there when they arrived were still there, allowing him to let down his guard a bit.
“After we talk to Cho, we'll stop back here and pick up some warmer gear. I saw an outfitter store on the way into the forest.”
She nodded. “It's almost over isn't it?”
Far from it. “Let's hope.”
The trip up to the Parkway was steep and winding but thankfully free of snow. Once they reached the top and turned left, the clouds began to roll in. Snow clouds. Once that happened, visibility could shoot to zero.
They passed the first scenic overlook, which presented a sparsely filled forest of pines surrounding a large, bald rock. The view of the National park reminded him of T-Squared father's home in West Virginia, where he learned to hunt, relax, and love nature.
“Looks like bad weather's on the way,” she said.
“We could get snow.”
Susan hugged her knees and leaned against the door. When they made it to a true safe house, he'd build her a large fire so she could get warm.
The last three miles along the gravel road were filled with potholes that jarred his spine. Susan grimaced a few times when a wheel dug deep into a rut, but she kept quiet. She was quite the trooper. Susan had guts and spunk, a combination he found attractive.
The sun set in a matter of minutes and the blackness prevented them up from going much faster than five miles an hour. He made a mental note that a swift entrance and exit would be close to impossible. How anyone could buy food if he were snowed in was a real mystery.
A half-mile later, his headlights captured a gate across one of the crossroads.
“I wonder where that leads,” Susan said.
“We've passed a few of them. They're for park officials only, but according to the ranger, this is Sunset.”
“Yikes.”
His same sentiment. “Wait here.”
Jake aimed the car lights on the bar, exited the Jeep, and then swung the gate back. A cowbell attached to the metal pole rang out. Now that was strange.
He couldn't wait to warn Gary and to suggest he find another place to stay. Once he spoke with Mr.
Cho, he'd take Susan somewhere safe.
They reached Gary Cho's new residence about three minutes later. One beat up truck sat in the drive. Richard Thomason's budget cutting mindset had struck again. Cheap bastard.
“I love this cabin,” Susan said. “It's so warm and cozy.” She pointed to the top of the building. “I see smoke coming out of the chimney. He must be home.”
He'd never heard such excitement in her voice. If they ever got out of this mess, he might like to see what he could do about bringing her some joy.
Jake pushed open his door. “Stay here while I check out the area.”
He'd gotten halfway around the cabin when he heard her door open. Stubborn woman. Jake did an about face and met her along the side of the house. “I told you to stay in the car.”
The hands flew to her hips. “I don't like being left alone.”
“You didn't have a problem staying snug in the seat when we were at the gas station. What gives now? Are you afraid of being in the woods? Alone?”
“Me? Afraid? Hah. No.” She cast her gaze to the ground. “Maybe a little.” She looked up and caught his gaze. “Okay, maybe a lot. These woods give me the creeps, especially in the dark. As a matter of fact, I hate the woods at night.”
Jake chuckled, grabbed her hand, and walked toward the front. Something caught his attention through the lighted window. He peered in.
“Oh my God.”
13
What is it?” Susan's voice trembled.
Jake wavered. He wanted to protect her from seeing Gary Cho, but, at the same time, he had to bring her inside with him. No telling where the killer might be hiding.
“It's Gary. He's in trouble.”
Jake pulled her around to the front. He guessed he'd have to smash the wooden door down, but when he turned the handle, the door swung open.
The moment they stepped inside, Susan choked out a sob. While he wanted to take her in his arms and tell her everything would be fine, he had to take care of the man still dangling at the end of a noose.
Jake righted the dining room chair and stepped up on the seat. The slight Asian man fit snuggly against Jake's chest when he lifted him to release the pressure of the noose.
“Jake!” Susan shouted.
“I think he's still alive.”
Her footsteps sounded behind him. “I saw someone peering in the window.” Panic laced her tone, but he didn't have time to ask any questions.
“Lock the door.”
Saving Mr. Cho had to take priority over looking for some Peeping Tom.
He lifted the rope from around Cho's neck, and the body collapsed in his arms, nearly toppling him. He gently guided Cho's body to the floor. Two brown burn marks, about an inch apart, were on his neck, suggesting the killer had used a stun gun. Bastard.
Susan knelt next to him. “My God. Can you save him?”
“I’m not sure.”
He dragged two fingers to the man's throat. A faint pulse beat, though Jake wasn't sure if he was feeling his racing heart or Gary's Cho's barely beating one.
He slipped the pre-paid phone from his pocket and handed the cell to Susan. “Call 9-1-1.”
Eyes wide, she stared at him. He understood shock could freeze a person, but Susan was made of sterner stuff. She'd dealt with gruesome photos of real crime scenes. The reality was worse, but she was strong.
A second later, she did as he asked. He didn't give any instructions. She was smart enough to disconnect once she told the operator about Cho.
Cho's mouth opened. “Caravel—,” he gasped, and then his body bucked before going limp. Eyes wide open, his head fell to the side.
“Mr. Cho.” Jake shook him, even though he knew the man would never speak again.
Jake tilted Cho's head back, pinched his nose and gave him a few breaths. He performed CPR for a few minutes, and then leaned back on his heels.
Still gripping the cell, Susan leaned closer, their shoulders touching. “Is he dead?”
“I think so. I can't find a pulse.”
“Was he saying something about Peter Caravello?”
He hoped to hell not. “We may never know.”
“Maybe he was identifying the killer. What else could Caravel— mean?”
His gut churned. “He could have meant he was here because of the Caravello trial. That's all.” Jake didn't want to discuss what ifs with her. “You said you saw someone peer in the window?”
She blinked a few times. “Yes, when you were trying to get Mr. Cho down.” Her voice rose.
“What did he look like?”
Her gaze shot from one side of the room to the other. “I don't know. Something was in front of his face. And it was dark, but I remember a small glowing object in his hand, like a cell phone. He was there one second, gone the next.”
“What direction did he go?”
“I don't know. I was rather preoccupied with Mr. Cho's situation.”
“I understand.” Jake jumped up and sprinted the ten feet to the door. He faced her and pulled open the door. “Keep this locked.”
Her body tensed. “You can't leave me here with a dead man.”
“I'll be right back. Trust me.”
Her mouthed opened but then quickly shut it. As she stood, he jetted out the door. Damn, he needed a flashlight. It was darker than three AM in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.
Jake raced to the side window where Susan claimed she saw the man and peered right then left. What looked like a path led away from the house. Wind rustled the leaves, a lone plane sped overhead, but nothing else moved. No animal sounds, no voices, no car engines revving, no feet racing through the forest. Where had the guy disappeared? Even after the clouds moved away to expose the half moon, he couldn't see much of anything. Leaving Susan alone, locked door or not, wasn't a smart move. Perhaps when the killer got interrupted, he tried to take advantage of isolating Susan. It was her time. She's next.
Not if he could help it.
The cold air froze his nose, ears, and fingers, making a search next to impossible without proper equipment. He'd only been in Florida a few days and had almost forgotten how much he disliked the frigid temperatures.
Who had been at the window? Some kid? A curious local who wanted to check up on the newcomer? Or had it been the person who'd strung up Mr. Cho? If indeed the killer was nearby, he and Susan had to get out of there. Now.
Frustrated, Jake returned to the front of the cabin and knocked. “It's me.”
She opened the door, rushed outside, and threw herself in her arms. She buried her face in his chest.
“I don't want to end up like Gary Cho. All the jurors are dead, and that leaves only me.”
He rubbed her back. “Shh. He's not going to get you.”
She didn't lift her head but remained snuggled in his arms. Jake was tempted to hug her tighter, but he didn't need to complicate their already strained relationship.
“How can you be so sure he won't come after me?”
Jake ran a cold finger down her warm cheek, his finger slipping on her tears. “You'll have to trust that I can protect you.”
She stepped back and locked her gaze with him. “I do trust you.”
Her admission warmed his heart. “Thank you.”
She sniffled. “Maybe we should leave before the ambulance gets here. There's nothing more we can do for Mr. Cho.”
“You're right. We don't want a repeat of what happened in Atlanta.”
“Amen.”
Jake checked out the room once more. Except for the tumbled chair under Mr. Cho's body, everything looked in place. Two bottles of beer sat on the dining room table, making it appear as though Cho knew the assailant. Or had the visitor gone, and Mr. Cho hadn't taken the time to clean up?
After wiping the prints off the door and chair, and making certain they'd left nothing behind to indicate they'd been anywhere near Gary Cho, they returned to the Jeep. The officer part of him told him to stay and report what had happened, but the bodyguard hal
f said to run. The 9-1-1 call would have alerted the ambulance as well as the local police. They would be charging here right now.
Jake had no desire to call the Bureau and report the last juror's death. Richard Thomason dropped to the top of his list the moment he denied knowing Jake in Atlanta.
Once he made up his mind to flee, Jake drove as fast as he could without ejecting them from their seats. When he passed the open gate, something tripped a memory. The cowbell might have been put there to warn whoever was in the cabin that visitors were about to arrive, but how could the killer know he and Susan were on their way? Had the ranger spilled the beans?
It didn't matter. The killer knew they’d been there. He hanged Mr. Cho only moments before their arrival. It was almost as if he wanted Jake to find Cho swinging. But why?
“Hold on.” Jake gripped the wheel hard. “This could get rough.”
“It already has,” Susan said between gritted teeth.
“Sorry.”
She took hold of the handle over her head and braced herself against the dash with the other hand. From the fast pace of her breathing, raising her right arm took concentration and a will to push the pain aside.
At the bottom of the long road, Jake came to a rolling stop and glanced left. A stream of colored lights rounded the curve. “They're coming.”
Slamming the gas pedal to the floor, he fishtailed out of the dirt road onto the pavement, and small rocks bounced under the carriage. Sirens screamed behind him. He took the next curve too fast and his wheels lost purchase.
“Jake!”
The oncoming car must have witnessed his loss of control. Lights flashed. The car slowed and dipped onto the berm. Jake let up on the gas and eased to his side of the road.
“That was close.” He glanced in the rear view mirror and let out a breath. “They turned down the road to Cho's place. No one seems to be following us.”
“Do you think they saw you?”
“Most likely, but I don't believe they've put two and two together yet.”
“And if they do figure out what happened?”
He wasn't ready to think about the consequences of leaving the crime scene. He might be looking for a different line of work when this mess straightened out. “Let's hope they don't.”