Stars in the Night

by Cara C. Putman

  Audra mouthed help, not knowing if they’d see the motion in the dim light. Danny studied her, confusion on his face.

  “Did you say something, Audra?”

  “No.” The word squeaked from her lips. God?

  Robert lurched to the side, knocking Audra off balance. She bit back a scream as she collapsed on the cement floor. Where was Mark’s gun now? Had the others seen it?

  “Audra, get up.” Mark’s voice held a steely edge.

  She tried to get her feet under her, but her skirt bound her legs. Her breath came in shallow sips as Robert reached down for her.

  Mark held his gun, no longer trying to hide it. “Step back, boys.”

  Robert released her hand, and Audra tried to melt into the concrete while keeping an eye on Mark and the gun.

  Danny put his hands up and stepped back. “Whoa. What’s this all about?”

  “You shouldn’t have interfered.”

  Robert crab-stepped to the side. Mark whipped the gun toward him then back at the other three men. “You’ll have to choose, Mark. You can’t shoot us all.”

  “Then maybe I’ll start with you.” The gun swung toward Robert. A shot exploded and the sound seemed to ricochet off the concrete.

  Audra screamed and crawled toward him, the concrete scraping her knees. Her chest tightened as red spread across Robert’s shoulder. A drop of blood fell on her cheek as she scrambled to her feet. He clutched his shoulder, pain twisting his lips.

  A snarl tore from Danny and he threw himself at Mark. The gun fired again, and Danny crumpled at Mark’s feet, but not before Charlie and Jim raced toward him. They tackled the gorilla of a man, and he crashed to the ground with a sharp oof.

  Audra stood and touched Robert’s face. Sweat glistened on his forehead. “Let’s get you down.” She helped him ease to the ground and then looked for something to press against his shoulder.

  “Here.” Jim handed her his jacket, from where he sat on Mark’s back. “I never liked it anyway.”

  Charlie lurched to his feet and hurried to Danny’s side. “Hang on, buddy. Don’t go anywhere.” He rolled his brother over.

  Danny’s face was pale and blood seeped from his side. He moved his mouth but no sound escaped. Police ran up and trained their sidearms first on one, then another, of the men. It looked like a dangerous game of ping-pong.

  “Someone want to tell me what’s going on?” A plainclothes officer stepped up. He pointed at a uniformed officer. “Let’s get an ambulance here.”

  An officer knelt beside Danny and evaluated his wounds. “Better hope the ambulance is close.”

  Audra swallowed and pressed the jacket tighter against Robert’s shoulder, her hands shaking. “That man on the ground just shot these two men. We also think he’s killed four women, including the one who died on the Hollywood Victory Caravan train today. The man behind the killings is somewhere around here. Artie Schmaltz from Hollywood.”

  Charlie reached for Danny’s hand and growled. “Artie did this? I’ll get the man.”

  “We’ll handle that part. Nobody move.” The detective barked the words as he studied the group. “Handcuff the guy on the ground and the guy sitting on him until we can figure out what’s going on.”

  An ambulance rumbled toward them, siren piercing the night.

  Robert grimaced but pressed a kiss to Audra’s cheek. “It’s all over.” He kissed her other cheek then her nose. The trembling built inside her until she felt like a leaf caught in a storm. “You’re safe.”

  “Shh. Let them work on you.” She eased away as the crew rushed to his side and Danny’s. She watched them load the men, hands pressed to her chest.

  She might be safe, but as she watched she knew her heart wasn’t.

  CHAPTER THIRTY-EIGHT

  __________

  Friday, June 26, 1942 – Tuesday, June 30, 1942

  The police had concluded their investigation, releasing the train to continue on its trip to Hollywood. The members of the caravan had regathered on the train after spending more time at the Winecoff and now sat in shell-shocked silence in the dining car. Danny still lay in a hospital room, his condition hovering between serious and critical. Charlie had refused to rejoin the caravan without his brother. Robert had insisted the doctors release him, which they had just that morning. Even though police had Mark and had caught up with Artie, he had stuck close to Audra since his release from the hospital.

  The gentle motion of the train rolling down the tracks threatened to lull Audra to sleep. She leaned her head against Robert’s uninjured shoulder, enjoying his close presence.

  “What’s next?” Victoria voiced the question that hung unspoken. “Are we headed to our next stop or back to Hollywood?”

  Audra sat up, instantly missing the connection with Robert. “The studio heads have decided the train’s going home. The publicity hasn’t gone exactly as they’d hoped and we’re far enough off schedule that it’s time to return to Hollywood.”

  Jim’s face pinched in a pained expression. “What if we want to stay? Finish what we set out to do? It’s not like I’ll ever get to wear a uniform. With my bum knee I couldn’t even get through the physical. This is my chance to be a part of the effort and something bigger than a movie.”

  “I agree. We can’t let Artie and Mark win by canceling the tour.” Elizabeth’s cheeks flushed and then she slumped over. “After all, not all of us have roles lined up when we get back. Especially now that it’s known our agent was a homicidal maniac.”

  “I’m sorry, but the men I’ve spoken to were adamant. The caravan is over.”

  The return trip was somber. By the time the train pulled into Los Angeles’s Union Station on Tuesday, many performers lingered on the platform as if reluctant to separate after all they’d experienced together.

  Jim stared at the assembled stars, his cheeks weighed down and eyes heavy. “This caravan was an amazing experience. You are so much more to me than colleagues now. Promise me we won’t let this die.”

  With a hiccup, Constance hugged him. “Let’s stay in touch.”

  Audra watched the good-byes and hugs from the side. While she’d touched their world, she hadn’t truly entered it. She’d distanced herself the final days, preparing for her return to Indianapolis.

  Robert had stayed close, his shoulder bound with bandages and his arm held in a sling, telling stories and probing into her past. He had even pried stories about Rosemary from her. It had been a sweet release to laugh and cry.

  Now that they were back in Hollywood, reality set in. She needed to stop by Rosemary’s apartment, clean it out, and board the next flight to Indianapolis. Her daddy had demanded that she return without further delay, and she knew he was right.

  She needed to leave but wanted to stay. Robert stood next to her on the platform, their shoulders touching. She memorized the feel of him next to her and the scent of his spicy cologne.

  “Is this the little lady?”

  Audra jolted from her thoughts to find a man in a tailored three-piece suit striding toward her. He commanded attention and respect in the very way he carried himself. Then there were the two men and a woman trailing behind him. Even Robert jerked to attention beside her.

  “Miss Schaeffer? I’m Samuel Mayer.” He stuck his hand out, and she shook it. “I’ve heard good things about you and your role in catching the men behind the murders. You have my thanks.” He snapped his fingers and the woman stepped toward her, extending a card. “Here’s my card. If you’re ever looking for work, contact me. I want people like you working at my studio.”

  “Thank you, sir.” She took the card and tucked it in her purse, though she doubted she would keep it.

  “All right. I’ve got cars waiting up front to deposit you at studios or apartments. Good job, everyone. Way to push through tragedies to help with the war effort.” He clapped his hands, and Audra had to stifle a laugh as the others hopped to attention and grabbed their bags.

  Victoria hurried up to her.
“I wish you’d stay. Please promise you’ll stay in touch?”

  “I’d like that.”

  “Then do it.” The star winked at her. “I have a feeling we won’t have to do it from across the country either. Not if a certain someone has his way.”

  Audra laughed then hugged Victoria. “We’ll see. Good-bye, Victoria.”

  “For now.” Victoria strode after Mr. Mayer, the eyes of every man drinking her in. The reaction left Audra no doubt that Victoria’s star would rise to top billing soon.

  She leaned down to pick up her bag but stopped when she noticed the masculine fingers that grasped the handle. Her gaze traveled up Robert’s length, savoring the sight of him. Could she love him from a distance? Walk away and let others enter his heart?

  She stood, shuddering at the thought.

  “Let me come with you.” Robert studied her, his face wearing a hang-dog expression.

  Audra stared at him then shook her head. “The problem with a relationship with an actor is I could never know if you’re sincere.”

  “Trust my heart. Trust my intentions. Trust my love.”

  Oh, how she wanted to.

  “But if you come with me to Indianapolis, it doesn’t mean I’ll come back here.”

  “Maybe. But I still want to come.” Robert shrugged. “I can’t do anything on screen for a while anyway. And I want to meet your family, share my condolences. And see you in your home.”

  She studied his face, trying to gauge his sincerity. “All right. I hope to get a seat on tomorrow’s flight.”

  “Take care of Rosemary’s apartment. I’ll arrange the tickets and come by tomorrow to get you.” He carried her suitcase to a waiting taxi and opened the door for her. Before she slipped inside, he kissed her cheek. “See you tomorrow.”

  Audra collapsed against the seat and gave the driver Rosemary’s address. Her emotions buzzed in a troubled, confused mix. If Robert really came home with her, what would her parents think of him? And would he like what he saw? The palm trees flowed past the window, standing stark against the bright blue sky. The cab pulled to the curb in front of Rosie’s building, and the driver pulled her suitcase from the trunk. She paid him and then tugged the case toward the side entrance. After unlocking the door and putting the bag inside, she stared. Boxes were stacked against one wall, the contents of the wardrobe and kitchen area packed for her. She left and went back around to the front where she rang Mrs. Margeson’s button.

  The landlady hugged her. “My dear, what a trip you had.” She stepped away and studied Audra. “We need tea. Follow me.” She bustled to the kitchen and filled the teapot. “Tell me all about your trip.”

  Mrs. Margeson prepared their tea as Audra related a few stories. Audra took a sip then touched Mrs. Margeson’s hand. “Thank you. For packing so many of Rosie’s things.”

  “It was nothing. I had a few spare moments and needed to fill them. I left her desk for you, though. I thought there might be private things that should be left to family to sort.”

  “I’ll do that tonight. Tomorrow I’ll fly home.”

  “Leave whatever you don’t want, and I’ll see they go to people who can use them.”

  “Thank you. For everything.” They hugged, and then Audra returned to the apartment.

  The evening passed as she worked her way through the stacks piled on and around Rosemary’s desk. Much of it she pitched into an empty box so it could be put out with the garbage. She sorted the final stack and stopped when she reached an envelope with her name scrawled across it in Rosie’s handwriting.

  Audra stared at it then turned it over. The envelope had not been sealed, and she slipped out the sheet of paper.

  Dear Audra,

  Hollywood hasn’t been quite the adventure I imagined. I’m sure you’ve noticed in my recent calls. You always read me like one of the books you enjoy. I don’t regret coming, but I do regret some of the decisions I’ve made. I’m in over my head, but don’t worry about me. I’ll find a way out. Maybe I’ll follow my friend Rachel and come home, but first I have to see if I can land a role in a movie. I’m giving it another three months. Then…well, we’ll see what happens.

  Don’t worry about me…I know you are. I’ll be fine. You always worry too much, especially about things you can’t control, like me. I love that about you.

  Much love,

  Rosie

  Audra folded the paper and slipped it back in the envelope. She tucked it in her purse. Rosemary knew her well, knew she’d worry about all the things Rosie wasn’t saying. Audra wiped her eyes. She’d always wonder what might have happened if she’d flown to Hollywood earlier, but for now she surrendered that burden over to God again.

  Robert came by with a cab the following morning in time to catch an early afternoon flight from Los Angeles. After another long series of flights, but before she’d mentally prepared, her daddy met them at the airport the next morning. He hugged Audra then studied Robert. “This the actor you mentioned?”

  “Yes, sir.” “It’s nice to meet you. Thanks for escorting Audra home.” He pumped Robert’s hand once. “Well, your mother is waiting at home. Let’s get your bags and go.” He led them to the Buick, shoulders slumped and face holding a lifetime of grief. They loaded the luggage and then she and Robert slid into the back seat as her daddy started the car. He eased out of the parking lot and pointed the car home.

  “Can we stop at the cemetery?” Audra grasped Robert’s hand, realizing she’d never even asked where they’d bought a plot.

  Daddy clenched his jaw then released it. “Now you want to see her?”

  “Please.”

  He turned the car onto 38th Street and eventually turned in to Crown Hill Cemetery. The car eased through the rows of graves until he reached Rosie’s area. Stopping the car, he turned to look at her. “She’s at the top of that rise. You’ll see a small white marker with her name. Your mama wants to plant a rose bush there, but hasn’t yet. Go say your good-byes.” He swallowed hard and rubbed an eye. “I’ll wait here.”

  Audra opened her door and Robert moved to open his, but she shook her head. “I need a minute alone with her. Please.”

  He considered her then nodded. “I’ll be here when you’re ready.”

  “Thank you.” She slid out of the car and walked up the hill in the direction Daddy had pointed. Tears clouded her vision and she stumbled among the markers until she found one with her sister’s name. ROSEMARY ELAINE SCHAEFFER. Audra sank to her knees beside the mound. She pulled Rosie’s letter from her purse and reread it. Carefully she folded it and returned it.

  “I’m so sorry, Rosie. I just couldn’t come back for the service. But I did it. I found your killer and the man behind it. It looks like Artie will go to jail for a very long time, and Mark will likely get the death penalty.” She tugged one of Robert’s handkerchiefs from her pocket and studied it. “I’m sorry I didn’t get to you in time. But I’m not sorry I went to Hollywood. I’ve met the most amazing man. His name is Robert Garfield. You knew him. He makes me feel beautiful and like I’m the only person in the world. Can you imagine that? I’m still amazed he notices me. He talks about a future, but I don’t know what Mama and Daddy will think. And I don’t know that I can live in Hollywood, not after what happened to you.” She wiped her cheeks with the handkerchief. “I miss you.”

  She heard footsteps and turned to see Robert walking up the hill. He paused a few feet away.

  “May I join you?”

  “Please.” She patted the grass next to her.

  He sat next to her and tucked her against his side. “I could get used to you sitting next to me like this.”

  Audra toyed with the charms on her bracelet. “Thanks for coming with me.”

  “Glad to do it. It could be a bit before the next contract since my agent’s implosion.”

  “What if you don’t get another contract?”

  “Then God will have something else for me.” He tipped her chin up until she met his gaze. “I enj
oy acting and transporting audiences into a story, but I don’t have to do that for the rest of my life.” He shrugged. “I try to be open to what God has for me.”

  Audra snuggled against him and watched the sun play across Rosie’s grave. After a few minutes she leaned away. “Time to go see Mama.”

  The car had barely pulled in front of the house when Mama rushed through the front door and clasped Audra in a hug. “You’re home.” Warm tears fell on her as Mama held her. “I’ve missed you.” She released Audra and turned to Robert. “I do believe you have someone to introduce me to.”

  Robert laughed and stuck out his hand. “Robert Garfield, ma’am.” Confusion flashed across Mama’s face as she shook it. “Lana Garfield’s husband?”

  “Not anymore. She divorced me two years ago.”

  Mama looked from Audra to Robert. “I see. Well, welcome. I’ve got brunch ready to go on the table.”

  Throughout the meal Mama and Daddy pumped Audra for information about Rosie, sending an occasional question Robert’s direction. After the meal, Daddy patted his stomach.

  “Thanks for the good meal, Mama. Robert, you have a minute?”

  Audra played with her bracelet while watching them leave the room.

  “Help me with the dishes.”

  “Yes, ma’am.” Audra cleared the table while Mama filled the sink.

  “What is going on with you and that man?” Mama kept her tone neutral but her eyes probed Audra.

  Audra sighed and leaned against the counter. “I think he’s serious about us, but I wasn’t sure what you and Daddy would think.”

  Mama chewed her lower lip. “The divorce bothers me.”

  “It is unusual here. I’ve learned Hollywood is a very different place. And he’s made it clear he wanted to make the marriage work. Lana wouldn’t hear of it. He’s got a good heart.”

  “Does he have faith?”

  “Yes.”

  “Then we’ll have to pray for clarity. How long is he staying?”