A Chilling Conundrum (An East Pender Cozy Mystery Book 9)

by Leona Fox

  She went on to tell Ellen about the events with Mickey. Ellen offered a sympathetic ear and tried reassuring Kelly but the recent bride only could talk about how unsafe she felt.

  “And this is exactly why I didn't want to tell you anything until it was necessary,” Ellen said. “But can you think of anyone who would want to do this?”

  “Not really, I mean, men are men, right? I've had boyfriends in the past and dates but do I think any of them are a psycho? No. I haven't experienced anything like this before. Everyone else around here, well, there's only Bob, but he wouldn't do something like this.”

  “Bob? You mean Bob Downes?”

  “Yeah. We used to flirt a little but it was never anything serious, just a bit of fun to brighten up our days, you know?” Ellen didn't know what she was talking about but she nodded just so Kelly would continue.

  “Recently he acted unhappy when I said I wasn't going to be able to flirt with him anymore. But for him to go to these lengths? I don't think he ever felt that strongly about me. Like I said, we only flirted.”

  “But that flirtation could have meant more to him than you realized. I think we need to go check out Bob. Are you sure there's nobody else? Think hard Kelly, even the most insignificant person could be important. Is there anyone else like Bob who you've flirted with? Someone else who you've even been kind to? Even though you may not have been aware of what you said or did, it could have been construed in a romantic way. Whomever this person is, they have twisted something into a new reality and they're not going to let go of the illusion anytime soon.”

  He watched her, hidden in plain sight as he always was, and she was none the wiser. It surprised him that she had not figured out who he was yet. In a way it almost made him wonder if he had built her up too much, placed her on a pedestal of which she was undeserving, but he quickly pushed away the thought. There had been much that had happened in her life recently. So, of course she was distracted, and she knew how to play the game. It was all about the mystery, the anticipation. No doubt he wanted it to last as long as possible so the payoff would be all the sweeter. Yes, he was convinced she slowly was coming around to his way of thinking and was joining him in the dance.

  Soon enough they would be together and the painful, agonizing wait would be over. All his dreams and fantasies, his longings, would become real. He would be able to hold her in his arms, to feel her slender body melt into his, to experience the warmth and tenderness of her touch and finally know all that he had been robbed of through his life so far. Then, he could turn back to his past and show them all his new life and laugh in their faces. The way they used to taunt him. Now they would know he had won the heart of a beautiful woman, not through his brawn but through his ingenuity, his imagination, and they all would have to concede he knew best over all these years.

  He sipped his hot coffee and smirked to himself as he read his book. All these people were ignorant. She deserved better than to be in a place like this. He would take her away from all of it. They would explore a new world, one of their own creation, a private paradise to which anything else would suffer in comparison.

  Ellen was sad to see Kelly leave the cafe. She only wished she could have offered something more concrete than the hollow reassurance that she and Andy were doing everything they could to find this mystery man. It was one of the stranger cases they had worked on. They had no leads at all, aside from Bob Downes now. Since the case had taken a darker turn Ellen wondered if she should have approached Kelly about it sooner. But would that have ruined the first days of her marriage? Love was certainly a most complicated thing, she pondered. Especially now, when someone lurking in the shadows was convinced they were in love with someone who did not share their feelings.

  After Kelly left Ellen went back to working in the cafe as normal. The low candlelight offered an intimate atmosphere but the chatter was loud and boisterous. Familiar faces were dotted all around but, like Kelly, Ellen viewed them all with suspicion. Usually she was good at getting a read on people but there was nobody in here she could say with confidence was the secret admirer. Edward Carrey was there, as usual, as were a number of couples on dates. Janice and Peter Lester were deep in conversation while the book club was enjoying a vibrant discussion about this month's latest read. Ellen almost wished there was another clue because at least then she could work toward something. At the moment she simply felt lost and the silence was worrying. Who knew what the admirer was planning to do next?

  As she was preparing to close the cafe for the night she heard the door open.

  “I'm sorry, we're just about to close,” she said, before she turned herself around and saw that it was Ray, the manager of the mill.

  “Oh, I didn't know it was you, come on in,” she said with a warm smile.

  “It's okay, I'm not going to stay for that long. I did mean to come here earlier but I got caught up with things at the mill.”

  “You've come a long way for a social call.”

  “Unfortunately, it's not just that. I found something at the mill today that I think you should take a look at.”

  He pulled out a piece of paper from his pocket and handed it to Ellen. It was the same as the other notes, just a couple of short sentences.

  “Did you see who left it there? Where did you find it?”

  “It was near the entrance. Could have been anybody, to be honest. It's the busy season, you know; we have people wandering around all over the place. I did ask around and, as far as I know, nobody saw anyone out of the ordinary but it is possible somebody could have sneaked in.”

  Ellen thanked him and Ray left the cafe. She leaned against the counter and looked at the new riddle. The game was nearing its end, but who would win?

  Chapter 8

  Love flows like wine, and in the middle of the night I worship at your shrine. Are you ready for me yet? I'm close...

  Just reading it made Ellen shiver. It was as though the author had imbued the words with his sickening craving for Kelly and it made Ellen nauseous. She had little time to examine the riddle for she went straight to Andy, and even though it was late in the night she told him about Bob Downes.

  “Do you think we're justified in going to question him this late at night?” she asked.

  “I'm starting to get really worried about Kelly. Whomever this is, he's not going to stop until he gets his hands on her and I don't think he's the type to take no for an answer.”

  Andy had a grim look on his face. “Of course, I'll get my coat,” he said, and soon enough they were driving along to Bob's house.

  The town was quiet and although it should have seemed peaceful it actually was foreboding. Somebody dangerous was lurking in the shadows and they were just baiting Kelly until it was time for them to strike. They had all the control in this situation, and that was most disconcerting for the chief of police and the consulting investigator.

  “I really feel like I messed up on this one,” Ellen said, looking out the window as the neighborhoods passed by. The car drove smoothly over the wide roads and there was not another soul in sight.

  “Why?”

  “I should have told Kelly about this sooner, should have made her more prepared. I was arrogant to think I could have figured out who did this just from the riddles. I should have asked her for suspects.”

  “You were just making sure your friend could enjoy being married,” Andy replied in a soothing tone.

  “I let my friendship get in the way of the case,” Ellen said bitterly. For a few moments the only sounds were the hum of the engine and their breathing.

  “I know you're worried about Kelly now but you couldn't have known we wouldn't have anything to go on. You made the right call. She deserves to be happy, and sometimes when it comes to situations like this we have to keep the truth from people. Ignorance is bliss, after all.”

  “But what if her ignorance leads her to being hurt? What if this person gets to her before we get to them?”

  “You never usually ge
t caught up in 'What if’s?'. What's the matter?”

  “I don't know,” Ellen said, sighing.

  “That doesn't sound like you either. Are you okay?”

  “Yeah...I guess. I don't know, it's just that ever since that interview everyone has been coming into the cafe acting like I'm some sort of hero but I'm really not. I haven't solved every case I've worked on and it's not just me. There's you, Kelly, hell, even Scampy has been the key to unlocking some of the mysteries! Not to mention the rest of the police. And now I can't even get to the bottom of this one. I guess I just don't understand why they rally around me like I'm a big deal.”

  “People like to put a face to things, and they like stories. Like it or not, you have a good story. I mean, come on, a woman comes back to her hometown to look after her ill parents and then she becomes a crime-solving mastermind? My brother should be writing a book about you, not me.” Ellen chuckled a little.

  “This is a small town, you know,” Andy continued, “and there isn't that much that goes on. People just like things that make them happy, and they like to know that one of them is doing well. I'm a cop. It's my job to do this stuff. So me solving a crime isn't going to make headlines, but you give them hope. They know they can count on you. You're their hero, Ellen. And, to be honest, you're my hero as well.”

  Despite his outward appearance as an intimidating cop, Andy could be the sweetest man and his words soothed Ellen's soul. She smiled and felt a little better, which was fortunate as they had reached Bob's house. They walked up the narrow stone path to a blue house that had lost the tint of its paint. Andy beat his fist against the screen door, which rattled under his force. He called out that it was the police. When there was no response he repeated this action. Then they heard someone mumbling and shuffling to the door.

  When it opened they saw Bob, who was wearing a very loose-fitting bathrobe. If there had been a gust of wind Ellen would have seen far more than she would have liked. He was unshaven and in the background they could hear some music playing. His bathrobe was stained, and the stench of alcohol hung around him, but he seemed cognizant enough.

  “Bit late for a house call, isn't it?” he said, squinting at them through beady eyes.

  Ellen wondered what on Earth had possessed Kelly to flirt with this man, but she wasn't here to judge her friend’s choices.

  “Can we come in? We'd like to have a word with you about a case we're working on,” Andy said.

  Bob stared at them for a few moments before he turned around and left the door open for them. They walked into the lounge, and he turned off the television just before Andy and Ellen entered. From the short glimpse Ellen could tell he had been watching something unsavory, and the less said about that the better. He re-arranged some dirty dishes to allow them a place to sit down, and gathered up some newspapers and magazines, then dumped them behind a chair.

  “And my ex said I'd never be able to look after myself,” he said, chortling. Neither Ellen nor Andy joined in.

  “We're aware that it's late so we won't keep you for too long.”

  “Of course, of course. Now, what case is this about? You didn't lose a child again, did you?” Andy and Ellen glanced at each other and rolled their eyes.

  “No, actually this concerns harassment of Kelly. We understand you two had a little disagreement recently?” Andy asked.

  Bob looked shocked. “Now, now, hold on there. Sure, we exchanged a few words, but harassment? I'll have you know I'm a gentleman. I love women, you know what I'm saying? And I'd never do anything to harm them. It was all just a bit of fun, that's all. Did she say something to you?”

  “That's not any of your concern,” Ellen said. “What should be is that she has been receiving notes recently that allude to a stalker. You wouldn't happen to know anything about that?”

  Bob's eyes went wide and he held up his hands in innocent surrender. “Honestly, I have nothing to do with this. I don't know what makes you think I would do something like that. Is that really what people think of me?” he said, leaning forward.

  “Me and Kelly, you know, we flirted whenever we saw each other and it was fun but if I'm honest with you I was never that into her. I was just annoyed that I never got a chance. I mean, that guy she got married to, what's so special about him? I admit I got a little short-tempered with her when she said she was happily married and we'd have to change the way we spoke with each other. I don't like my fun being spoiled by other people.

  We weren't doing any harm, but anyway, I certainly wouldn't go to the lengths of writing notes and things. Not really my style. I prefer the tactics of shock and awe, be loud so they have to notice you. That's the way I've always conducted myself and it's not going to change now. I've never become hung up on girls anyway, that way lies madness. Plenty more fruit in the bowl. And there are still some unmarried women in this place,” and as he said this he arched forward and flashed Ellen a sleazy smile. Andy noticed, of course, and coughed loudly. Bob cowered in his seat.

  “Ah, yes. Well, anyway, my point being that you've come to the wrong place. Sorry that I couldn't be any more help,” he said, and rose to usher them out.

  As they stepped out into the cool night air Andy cursed.

  “I really hate riddles,” he repeated.

  Ellen linked her arm in his as they slowly walked back to the car and paused before getting in. They were still no better off after talking to Bob. All they could do now was wait to see what the admirer would do next. That was not a position either of them wanted to be in because the next move could be dangerous to Kelly.

  “Whomever is doing this has an endgame and he's working toward something. I hate to say it, but I think all we can do is wait it out.”

  “I'm not used to being so reactive. It goes against all my instincts as a cop. I'm usually out there chasing down something...I don't think I can just wait.”

  “Maybe I could make it easier,” Ellen said, stepping closer to him and wrapping her arms around his body.

  “You want to get all cozy while there's a case going on? Who are you and what have you done with my Ellen Thatch?” he said, his eyes twinkling with good humor.

  “With everything I've seen lately I know we have to cherish every moment we spend together,” she said, and kissed him deeply. “Plus, we have our cellphones. So if anything does happen we can be contacted. Let's just go for a stroll.”

  The two of them walked, hand in hand, and spoke of things other than the case. It was pleasing to enjoy a romantic stroll, even though there was plenty on both their minds. The wan moon illuminated their night and while they strolled along they may as well have had the whole world to themselves. Soon enough conversation was exhausted and they walked along, simply enjoying each other’s company, until it was interrupted by a call on Andy's cellphone. He answered it and his brow furrowed.

  “We'd better go,” he said, and they rushed back to the car, then drove to the middle of town.

  When they arrived they saw a flood of gasoline seeping along the street. “Someone sabotaged the gas station. It's getting everywhere.”

  “Gas again,” Ellen said to herself, and a thoughtful look came over her face.

  “What is it?” Andy asked, but Ellen held up a hand so he wouldn't interrupt her train of thought.

  The solution was so close and all she had to do was work it out. The mill, the gas, the clues that she had found. The picture that was taken. Her mouth fell open as the truth presented itself to her.

  “We've been wrong this entire time,” she said.

  The clues had referred to cases she had worked on before. She had been in the picture along with Kelly, and of course she had been in the news recently and had talked about all the old cases. So even if the admirer hadn't known everything before he would have now. Nausea swelled in her stomach and she struck out a hand to steady herself against the wall.

  “What do you mean?”

  “The notes, they haven't been for Kelly. They've been for me.”

>   Chapter 9

  After the realization, Ellen and Andy returned home quickly, making sure all the doors and windows to the house were secure. Scampy leaped into bed with them and Ellen cuddled up to both of them, worried that she had been putting herself in harm's way ever since this had started.

  “How did I not see this? I was so blind. It was right there in front of me. This is what I was talking about. I don't deserve to be thought of as a hero or to have articles written about me. I'm not anything special. I'm just a fool. There's someone out there who has been watching me and I've had no idea about it!”

  “You were worried about your friend before yourself, that's nothing to be ashamed of. All the signs pointed to Kelly, and you wanted to protect her.”

  “No, I should have thought about it more. I should have been more critical. I was just...I was distracted and I let my focus slip. I can't believe that someone has been watching and playing with me all this time. I bet they've been laughing at me. My God...they've probably been in the cafe as well, right under my nose. They could have been--”

  Andy grabbed her and held her so tight that she was silenced. “Don't think about all this stuff. It's not going to do you any good. We just have to do the same thing as we did with Kelly, the same thing we do with all our cases; work through it together. You've got me here and you know I'm not going to let anything happen to you. You have the whole backing of the town as well. Whomever this person is, they're not going to succeed.”

  “I really thought I was doing the right thing by protecting Kelly but I should have done more. I should have known it was about me. I just didn't think...it was her wedding after all. I need to tell her so she can stop worrying.” Ellen leaned over and grabbed her phone to send Kelly a quick message.

  “It'll stop her worrying about herself but she's going to worry about you just as much as you worried about her,” Andy said.