“Keep an eye on her, Stephen. Be with her when she needs you. You can’t help her remember, but you can help her heal after the suffering she’s gone through.”
And there it was—the sucker punch to my gut. “I can feel it, Archangel Charisma. I can feel her pain. It tears me apart.”
“I know,” she said, resting a soothing hand on my shoulder. “Give Cassie time. It won’t be easy for her, Stephen. I know miracles can happen, but it’s not going to suddenly appear out of nowhere. It will frustrate and anger her at times. I’m afraid all you can do is sit and watch as you hold her hand.”
“It will crush me,” I whispered.
“I know it will, but wouldn’t it be worth it in the end? Don’t you think Cassie will think it all worth it in the end?”
Smiling up at her, I knew she was right. I would go to hell and back if it meant being with Cassie.
“You know, she makes the best goddamned hot chocolate in the universe.”
“Stephen,” she scolded, “don’t blaspheme.” Although she was trying to be stern, you could see the hint of humour in her eyes.
“I’m sorry,” I laughed. “I just don’t know how she makes it.”
Grabbing my hand, Charisma squeezed it tight. “She makes it with love, Stephen. Only love.”
Chapter 10
No such luck on Simeon having to work the riot tonight. He managed to get out of it somehow. Either Simon got him out of it, or Simeon managed to wangle his way out of it himself.
So I was sitting, waiting for Simeon to pick me up. He was supposed to show up two minutes ago, but there’s been no sign so far. I opted to wear a comfortable lilac dress which rested just above the knees. My hair, which was getting longer, was a mass of wavy curls resting gently on my back. I must admit, I was exhausted more than normal lately. Getting shot probably did it, but I found I had to put a lot more effort into getting ready than I normally would have. It was a pain. My shoulder was a pain, not working was a pain, being without Stephen was a pain!
I still yearned for him—still called out for him whenever I was alone. I just wished there was something I could do.
Remember, whispered a voice.
“Remember what? What do I need to remember? Who I am? I don’t understand. I wish someone would just tell me.”
A knock on the door made me jump. Running to the window, I saw Simeon standing there, doing up his tie and straightening his shirt.
As I answered, I spotted a bottle of wine in his hand. “Sorry I’m late. I thought I’d bring a bottle.”
In my haste, I didn’t think to bring anything. “Seeing as you did bring something, I think I can let you off…this time.”
Simeon smiled and bowed. “Are you ready, my lady?” He glanced over my body, which made the fires start.
He’s not Stephen.
Kicking myself into gear, I shut the door behind me. “Yes, I am.”
Simeon held his arm out. “Then let me escort you to your chariot.”
Giggling, I took his arm as he led me to his car parked around the corner. He made sure I was comfortable inside before he marched over to the driver’s side.
“You look as beautiful as ever,” he said as he started the engine.
“And you’re still as subtle as a brick.”
Simeon looked over at me before pulling out of the parking space. “And you’re still as cheeky as ever by the looks of things.”
I shook my head, smiling. “I have no clue what that’s supposed to mean.”
Simeon smiled back and looked like he was about to say something, but stopped himself. “Are you okay?” he asked instead.
“I’m fine, thank you. A little sore, but fine.”
Simeon frowned and quickly glanced over at me. “I wasn’t talking about your shoulder.” He paused a moment. “I know you feel somewhat wary of me, Cassie, and that’s perfectly fine. I completely understand why you would. I know I’m not Stephen and I would never expect you to think otherwise. In fact, although we are twins, I am my own person with thoughts and feelings of my own.”
Rubbing my hands on my knees, I glanced over at Simeon. I felt guilty that I was, in fact, comparing him to Stephen. I knew it was silly to be wary of him because of that fact. It wasn’t Simeon’s fault he looked exactly like him.
“I know you do, Simeon. I’m sorry if I gave the impression I was comparing the two of you.”
Simeon breathed out with a smile. “That’s okay, Cassie. I guess what I’m trying to say is I’m here for you. As an angel, a friend, and a confidant. I will be here if you ever need to talk.”
Deciding I had to let go of my hang-ups, I reached out and took Simeon’s hand. He jumped at my touch, but smiled. “Thank you, Simeon. It is appreciated.”
As I was about to take my hand away, he surprised me by grabbing it and giving it a squeeze. “I do mean it, Cassie. You never have to be alone when you have us.”
I gave Simeon a reassuring smile, but I was dying inside. Pretty soon, I won’t have them. They will leave and I will be left with no one.
I was so wrapped up in my thoughts, I didn’t even realize we were pulling up outside Simon’s house until Simeon stopped the car.
“I believe this is it.” He pulled the key out of the ignition and looked over at me. “Are you ready?” I nodded. “Sit tight. I’ll come over and help you out.” As I started to protest, he put his hand up. “I insist.”
“How did you know what I was going to say?”
Simeon raised his eyebrow and gave me a cheeky grin. “Because I already know how stubborn you are, Cassie. It doesn’t take a genius to work that one out. Just let me be a gentleman and open the door for you.”
Giggling, I pulled my hand away from the door handle. “Okay. Thank you, Simeon. And people say chivalry is dead.”
Simeon shook his head. “I don’t know who he is, so I really cannot say either way.”
Laughing harder now, I watched as he got out of the car and walked over to my side. With a gesture of his hand, he bowed. “We are here, my lady.”
I grabbed his hand as he pulled me out. “Why, thank you, kind sir.” As Simeon shut the door behind me, he was so close that our lips were almost touching.
My breath caught as I gazed into his bright blue eyes. I was lost in the moment. A tender, peaceful moment where we both couldn’t keep our eyes off each other. Simeon stared longingly at my mouth, making me gulp. He’s not going to kiss me, is he?
He’s not Stephen!
The angry voice in my head made me jump so violently, it caused Simeon to take a step back.
“Are you okay?”
Catching my breath, I nodded. “Yes, I’m fine. I thought I heard a noise and it spooked me a little.”
Simeon chuckled. “More like spooked the hell out of you. Come on. Let’s go. They’ll be expecting us.”
Taking a deep breath, I took Simeon’s arm. We walked to the house and noticed how big it really was. It was an end of terrace house, but looked like it had three floors.
Knocking on the door, I cleared my throat as we waited. I expected it to be Simon, but I was met with Sharice instead. I shouldn’t have known who she was, but I had seen her in Simon’s head. I already knew what she looked like, but seeing her in the flesh was even better. She was very petite with black, bobbed hair and soft, brown eyes.
“You must be Cassie. It’s so nice to finally meet you.” Sharice held out her hand, but Simon was quick to interrupt.
“Cassie, Stephen. You found us okay then?”
“Yes, sir,” Simeon answered, shaking his hand.
Not wanting to look rude, I did the only thing I could. Stepping over the threshold, I gathered Sharice in my arms. “Thank you for inviting me to your lovely home.”
She gracefully accepted my hug. “It was my pleasure. It was the least we could do for everything you’ve done for this family. Everyone’s just dying to meet you and find out how you did it. I asked Simon if you were a psychic or something. He’s been very
cagey with the details.”
Laughing, I pulled away from Sharice and looked into her eyes. “You don’t know the half of it,” I playfully answered.
Sharice’s eyes widened with excitement. “You’ll have to tell me more.”
“Sharice, quit hogging the poor girl and let them come inside.”
Everyone giggled as Sharice ushered us all inside. We were soon met by a group of people in Simon and Sharice’s cosy living area.
“Everyone, this is Cassie and Stephen.” Simon looked over at us and motioned to the five people sitting on the sofas. “This is Sharice’s parents, Mark and Trinity.”
I nodded. “Nice to meet you.”
“These are my cousins, Blake and Rachael, and this is my good friend, Graham.” I nodded at everybody.
“You mentioned this lovely lady, but you never said how damn fine she is, Simon.”
Rachael slapped him around the arm, as I chuckled nervously. “Blake, cut it out, you pervert.”
“Yes, Blake. Leave the young lady alone. Can’t have you taking advantage of the poor girl.” Simon glared at Blake, but that did nothing to stop him. He just licked his lips and was about to retort when Simon put his hand up. “Don’t say something you’ll regret.”
Startling me, Simeon grabbed my hand and held on tight, which wasn’t lost on everyone else in the room. I think Blake got the message loud and clear.
“I’m sorry, Cassie. You’ve only been here a couple of minutes and the wolves are already descending.”
I was about to tell him it was fine, but then a shrill scream could be heard from the adjacent room. “Oh, my god. This must be Cassie. Baby girl, you come here and give Caroline some sugar.” The small, rotund lady came bounding over, gathering me in her arms.
Once she pulled away, she gathered my face in her hands and just stood looking at me, tears in her eyes. “I can’t thank you enough for everything.”
“As you can tell, this is my mother.” Simon rolled his eyes and I just smiled.
“It was my pleasure, Mrs. Bradley. I’m just so glad Molly is okay.”
Putting her arms on my shoulders, she held my gaze. “You’re like a beacon of light, dear child. Almost as though you’re our guardian angel.”
My eyes widened as I contemplated how close to the truth she was. I was an angel in my previous life, even though I couldn’t remember it.
“Desmond, come over here and meet the girl who found our baby girl.” I was ushered towards a very tall, skinny man who was the spitting image of Simon, but older.
“Cassie, so lovely to finally meet you.” Mr. Bradley smiled and offered me a hug. It seemed like the whole family was rather tactile. It was good for me as it meant, so far, I didn’t have to take their hands.
“And you, too, Mr. Bradley. I can’t wait to try this jerked chicken Simon was raving about.”
Everyone laughed and Sharice grabbed my arm. “Yes but, the thing is, I’m making it, so it might not turn out so well.”
“I’m sure it will be wonderful,” I smiled.
Putting a hand on Sharice’s shoulder, Simon leaned over and kissed her on the head. “I’m sure it will, too,” he beamed. “Listen, would you mind if I steal Cassie and Stephen away for a couple of minutes? I need to speak to them about something.”
Sharice smiled and kissed Simon. “Of course, darling. Don’t be too long as dinner will be ready in about a half-hour.”
“Don’t worry. It’ll just take a few minutes,” he winked.
Curiosity peaked, Simeon and I followed Simon into what looked like his study. He sat down in the chair behind his desk and motioned for us to take a seat.
“Would you like a drink?”
We both shook our heads. “Not right now, thanks. What is it you want to discuss?” I knew Simon was too eager to share what he had to worry about drinks.
“I got a call about twenty minutes ago from DCI Tremble in North Devon. The site Justin Merryfield led them to…” I nodded. “So far, they’ve uncovered twelve bodies of young girls.”
I winced as my heart shot into my throat. I was ready for this, but it still didn’t help the level of shock that ran through me.
“I know. I’m sorry to have to tell you this, but you knew it was coming.”
I nodded again as Simeon offered me his hand in support.
“They haven’t stopped digging. They believe there’s going to be more. Justin Merryfield is fully cooperating with the police and they have arrested his father. I know it doesn’t make a difference to you, Cassie, but you’ve just helped solve a decades-old mystery that’s been stumping the police for years. More young girls are safe now that you solved this. You should be proud.”
Shaking my head, I couldn’t help thinking just how sick I felt. “This doesn’t make me proud, Simon. It just makes me disillusioned.” I felt Simeon squeeze my hand, as Simon frowned in confusion. “What kind of world are we living in, Simon? What kind of world takes young girls and rips them apart from not only their family’s lives, but from their own? What kind of world allows that to happen?”
Simon sighed. “It’s not the world that does this, Cassie. It’s the sick person living in it that does. People like Tom Merryfield are a drop in the ocean. They’re few and far between.”
“I understand what you’re saying, Simon. I suppose it just feels that way to me as I’m surrounded by it.” I thought about what I said and bit my tongue. “I’m sorry, Simon. That sounded selfish. It’s not about me. It’s about those poor girls. At least something good will come out of this. The parents will be able to have closure, finally burying their daughters.”
Simon sighed and looked out the window. “Unfortunately, one of the girls suspected of being buried there has no living relatives. She was raised by her mother after her father died when she was two. They were both on their own. No grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins—nothing. They only had each other. Her mother died six months after she went missing. They suspected it was of a broken heart.”
Feeling the tears sting my eyes, I looked over at Simeon, who smiled reassuringly. “What’s going to happen to her?”
Simon cleared his throat and propped himself up in his chair. “I suspect that if it is her, a government contractor will take care of the funeral.”
I shook my head and sat up. “No, Simon. Please. If it’s her, please let me take care of her funeral.”
Simon looked shocked. “Cassie, you don’t have to do that.”
I nodded. “I do, Simon. I really do. Whomever this little girl is, she deserves to be sent away properly. I need to do it for her, and I need to do it for her mother.”
Sighing, Simon leaned onto his desk. “Well, if it is Lisa Bellmont, I’ll be sure to tell you.”
Hearing her name out loud hit me hard. This poor little girl had her whole life ahead of her, but then some evil monster came along and snatched it away. He stripped her from a life of dreams, loves, loses, and happiness. The tapestry of life she could have led was lost, never to be found again. It broke my heart.
“Thank you, Simon. Can I ask how old she was?”
Running his hand through his hair, Simon exhaled. “She was only eight when she went missing sixteen years ago. She would have been twenty-four.”
The room fell silent as we thought about the possibilities for this young girl. Possibilities that were taken away by Tom Merryfield.
“I’m sorry, Cassie. I didn’t mean for it to get so somber. This is supposed to be a party, but I’ll have you crying in your soup.”
We all chuckled, easing the tension. “It’s okay, Simon. You had to tell me and I appreciate that you did. Now all that’s left is to join your wonderful family and savor this jerked chicken. My mouth has been practically salivating all day thinking about it.”
Simeon chuckled. “It’s true. My passenger seat is filled with her slobber.”
“Stephen, cut it out,” I giggled, pushing his arm. Simeon winked back and, from the corner of my eye, I could tell Simon was
closely watching us.
*****
In the brief time we were sitting around the table, I learned that Blake was a DJ at a local club not far from Simon’s house; Rachael was studying at the university and wanted to become a professor; Sharice’s mum and dad both worked in the tax office where they met; and Simon’s dad worked in insurance. The family was big, and the love was shared by all. It was so nice to be filled with such happiness and appreciation around the dinner table. It somehow made me feel like part of the family.
We were just finishing off our soup, when Simon’s mum came out with the jerked chicken. It looked simply delicious. “Here you go, darling,” Caroline beamed, handing me a plate. “Sharice has done a fine job with the chicken.”
With my knife and fork in hand, I smiled at Caroline. “I’m looking forward to tucking in.” She sat down next to me.
“Go on, baby girl. Tell me what you think.”
Smiling politely, I picked up some of the chicken with some rice and placed it in my mouth. The flavours that burst on my tongue were phenomenal. It was spicy, but not overly so. It was sweet, but not so much that it was overpowering. It was wonderful.
“Hmmm,” I hummed in approval as I chewed my food. “It’s jerktastic,” I smiled at Sharice.
Soon, everyone was tucking in. I was so engrossed in eating, I was actually one of the first ones to finish.
“It’s nice to see a girl with a healthy appetite.” Blake winked over at me, making me blush.
“It has to be one of the best meals I’ve ever tasted.”
“Don’t go saying that. You’ll give Sharice a big head,” Simon piped up, earning an elbow from his wife.
“He’s just jealous because he tried it once and he not only burned the chicken, but the rice, too.”
Rachael laughed. “How could you burn the rice, Simon?”
Simon shook his head. “I thought it took longer than what the packet said.”
“Well, you see, here’s the thing. He didn’t read the packet. He just shoved me out of the kitchen and told me he had it all under control. Soon, the fire alarms were going off all over the house, and Simon was running around like a headless chicken.”
Her Guardians Lost (Her Guardians Trilogy #2) Page 9
