Before Tommy pulled away from the curb, Dylan adjusted the side view mirror. Intense, direct gray eyes reflected in the mirror. He winked and shot her a teasing smile. Uncomfortable with the way he was looking at her, Lacy averted her eyes. Now he was playing games. He had Malory on his lap and he was staring at her as if he could devour her. It was going to be a long uncomfortable night.
Twenty minutes later Tommy pulled into the parking lot of the Sports Bar. One by one they all filed out of the car. Lacy felt like a third wheel when Tommy took Michelle’s hand. She tried to jerk away, but he only held her tighter. He pushed her against the car, pressing his body tight to hers. When she struggled, he gripped her arms. “I’m sorry. I’m not going to argue with you tonight. I want to have a good time.” He kissed her cheek. He placed his hand on her thigh. “Did you wear that skirt for me?”
That seemed to appease her because she leaned against him. “I don’t want to argue either. In the future, please be aware that I do not like to be kept waiting.”
He taped a finger to his head. “Noted.” He kissed the tip of her perfect, pert nose.
A little light rain came down but no one seemed to notice. Malory stuck her arm into Dylan’s and they made their way toward the entrance. Lacy watched as they disappeared inside.
Tommy took Lacy’s hand. “Are you ready to go inside?”
She forced a smile to her lips. “Yes.”
“Lucky me. I get to escort the prettiest two women on campus.” Lacy liked Tommy. He was down to earth and friendly. She suspected Michelle was already hopelessly in love with him. She hoped he didn’t break her heart. Their relationship was moving along pretty fast.
The place was crowded and loud. Lights with red globes hung from the ceiling. Black tile covered the floor. A distinct sense of dread swirled through Lacy. She had to force one foot in front of the other when Dylan and Malory motioned them to the empty table they had located. Dylan grabbed an empty chair from the table next to theirs and held it out for her to sit next to him. Pink color spread across her cheekbones when his fingers brushed against her back. He leaned over her shoulder and whispered in her ear, “Can I get you something to drink?”
“A Pepsi, please.” Dylan ordered a round of drinks for everyone. As usual she was the only one not drinking. Determined she wasn’t going to ruin everyone’s good night, she tried to enjoy the atmosphere. People laughing, talking loudly, drinking, they seemed to be having a great time. Still she couldn’t change her mood. She felt out of place.
Tray propped against her hip, the waitress asked Malory and Michelle, “May I see your IDs?”
They both took out their fake IDs and flashed them in front of the waitress. Satisfied, she left to fetch their drinks. Michelle was twenty and Malory nineteen. Neither was old enough to purchase alcohol. Most college students purchased fake IDs the first week of being on campus since drinking alcohol was mandatory. Partying was a big part of college life.
Tommy reached under the table and took Lacy’s hand. “If you want to drink tonight, I’ll have only one beer so I can be the designated driver.”
“No, I’m fine. I’ll drive. Have a good time.”
Annoyed, Malory shot her a cold stare. “Let your hair down, Lacy. You’re such a prude.” Not once had Malory shown any empathy because Lacy had been drugged and almost raped. It boggled her mind why Michelle continued a friendship with her.
Michelle snapped, “Leave her alone, Malory. I told you when you insisted on coming with us, not to be your usual bitchy self. Next time we’ll leave you behind.”
Twirling a lock of dark hair around her finger, Malory ignored Michelle and turned her attention back to Dylan. She leaned on his leg and whispered something in his ear. He smiled and answered, “Sounds intriguing.”
Lacy had to look away. A week ago he had kissed her and now he was flirting outrageously with Malory. She was such an idiot.
The waitress returned with their drinks. Malory lifted her glass up for a toast. “I hope to get completely plastered.” She tipped the glass to her lips and empted the glass. Slapping her glass on the table she motioned for the waitress to return. “I’ll have another screwdriver please. This time I want two fingers of vodka.”
Lacy poured her Pepsi into a glass while she stared at Malory. She hated to be around her when she was drinking. She was obnoxious enough sober. She scanned the crowd to see if she knew any of the patrons. Some she knew only in passing. She was just beginning to relax when she saw a familiar face at the packed bar. One of Bret’s buddies was at the table in the far corner. His glare caused her to quickly look away. The hatred she saw in his eyes caused her to feel sick. Everyone jumped to their feet when the American Team kicked a goal. She focused on the wide screen TV and tried to enjoy the game. She wrapped her fingers around her glass so no one would notice her hands shaking.
After the hoopla died down, Michelle stood and replied, “I need to go to the ladies room.” She gave Lacy a pointed look. “Do you need to go?”
Lacy knew that look. She was about to get a pep talk. “I guess I do.” She pushed her cup next to Tommy’s beer. “Will you please watch my drink?”
“No problem.” His eyes drifted to Michelle. “Don’t be gone long.”
Michelle leaned over and gave him a passionate kiss. She wiped the lipstick from his lips with her thumb. “I’ll be right back.” The moment she turned her back, he gave a sharp slap to her bottom.” She swatted at him like a gnat and giggled.
Michelle shoved open the stall doors to make sure no one was inside. Then she turned on Lacy. “Are you okay?”
“Stop worrying about me, I’m fine.”
“You’re not fine. I hate leaving you at the dorm by yourself, but I can tell you’d rather be somewhere else than here. You look like a mule eating briars.”
Fighting for calm, Lacy snapped, “Next time leave me at the dorm. I’m not like you. I don’t need to be surrounded by people. I’d rather be curled up with a good book. I’d rather work on schoolwork.” She wrapped her fingers around Michelle’s wrist. “I can’t handle the strain of you worrying about me. Just leave me alone and I’ll be okay.”
A deep sigh filled the quiet of the bathroom. “For pity sakes, you’re as stubborn as a team of mules. I want you to be happy. I feel like what Bret did to you affected you in the worst way. I feel guilty.”
There was a flutter just under her heart, another in the pit of her stomach. “How many times must I tell you it wasn’t your fault? Must I remind you that I didn’t like going out before Bret Robertson drugged me and tried to rape me. I’m not a social butterfly.” Lacy leaned down and wrapped her arms around Michelle. “You are my best friend, always will be. Now stop fretting over me and get out there and spend time with that hunky boyfriend of yours. Don’t threaten your relationship with Tommy because of me. He’s a keeper.”
“I love you, Lacy.”
“I love you too.” Lacy gave her a gentle shove. “I’ll be along shortly. Now go.”
Michelle gave her a dazzling smile before she pushed open the door and left her alone. Lacy moved to the mirror and peered at her reflection. Dark circles under her eyes proved she hadn’t slept well last night. Strange dreams plagued her slumber.
She rummaged through her purse until she found her lipstick. Smearing some on her lips, she whispered, “Better.” She fluffed her bangs and tilted her head sideways to see the effect.
Lately she had spent more time on her appearance. Maybe it was because of her attraction to Dylan. What a waste of time. She didn’t dare risk her heart. He was out there drooling all over Malory. Women like her were probably more his speed. Why would he want to spend time with such an odd ball like her? Not many men were attracted to her type. She was much too boring and introverted.
Footsteps approached behind her. Funny she didn’t hear anyone open the door. She turned and saw Bret Robertson standing in front of the door. Face to face and alone with Bret caused panic to swirl inside her. Legs trembling,
she held to the sink to stay on her feet.
As if talking to a child, he whispered softly, “I don’t mean you any harm, Lacy. I want to be friends.”
Pulse racing, she hissed, “Friends! You must be crazy!” He was irrational. How could he even begin to comprehend they could be friends after he almost raped her.
He smiled revealing perfect white teeth. He reminded her of a wolf before it devoured its prey. “I heard you were here tonight.” He took a step toward her. “I had hoped we could talk. Did you get my flowers?” When she continued to stand there with her mouth open, he added, “White roses stand for purity.”
She held up a hand and took several steps back until she felt the wall at her back. “Have you forgotten I took out a restraining order against you?” Eyes still on Bret, she stuffed her hand into her purse and tried to find her phone. Her hands shook violently. “I’m calling the police.”
With a steady hand, he took her purse and placed it on the counter. Tears swam in her eyes. “Please leave me alone.”
“I can’t. I have feelings for you.” She made a mad dash for her purse but he grabbed her arm and pulled her to his chest. His voice was as stiff as his spine. “I want you to recant the charges you made against me.” Fingers dug into her flesh.
“I can’t do that. You’re sick and need help.”
“I’m not sick. I am attracted to you.” His fingers brushed against her cheek. Terrified, she rubbed a hand over her thudding heart.
Both turned when the door opened. The violence in Dylan’s eyes caused her to cringe. “What in the hell are you doing in the ladies room?”
“What does it look like I’m doing? I’m trying to have a conversation with Lacy.”
“I don’t think she wants to talk to you.” His eyes narrowed and his jaw tightened. Bret charged Dylan. Even though he was taller, Dylan easily caught him by the arm and took him to his knees on the floor. “You son of a bitch, let me go. This does not concern you.”
Attention on Lacy, Dylan ordered in a firm voice, “Fight back, Lacy. Kick him. Stop being pathetic and let him know you won’t put up with his behavior. He is bullying you.”
She looked at Dylan as if he had lost his mind. “I’ve never hit another human being in my life.”
“It’s about time you start. He tried to rape you. He put ecstasy in your drink so he could have sex with you. He is a disgusting person. Get mad, Lacy. Don’t wallow in all your misery. Fight back.”
Her gaze connected with Bret’s. He did do all those things to her. He took away her trust and peace of mind. It was the most humiliating moment of her life. He keeps humiliating her. Temper waged a war inside her. Here was her chance to retaliate. But then with revenge came consequences. “What if he charges me with assault?”
Bret struggled to get away from Dylan. “You’re going to be sorry, Bauer.”
“Shut up Robertson.” Bret screamed in pain when Dylan put more pressure on his arm.
“Do you think he’ll tell anyone he got beat up in the women’s bathroom by a woman? Trust me. He won’t breathe a word to anyone.”
After a moment’s hesitation, Lacy reared back and kicked Bret in the privates. Dylan let him go and watched him writhe in pain. “Doesn’t that feel good?”
“God, yes. I never believed violence could feel so wonderful.”
“Want to kick him again?”
Teeth gritted in pain, Bret peered up at her with his hands over his privates. For a moment she considered kicking him again and again. “No, I’m satisfied.”
Dylan grabbed Bret by the neck and lifted him to his feet. “Every time you come near her, I’ll hold you while she beats the shit out of you. Eventually that dick won’t be any good to you or anyone else.” He shoved Bret out the door. Before Dylan shut the door behind him, he shouted, “Don’t bother Lacy again.”
Reaching for her hand, Dylan threaded his fingers with hers. “I knew there was someone with a backbone under all that restraint. Show Robertson you are not afraid of him and he’ll leave you alone. He feeds off your fear. It gives him power. Obsessions can be weird and creepy and it’s obvious he is obsessed with you.”
She held her breath in hopeful anticipation as he leaned in and whispered, “I like a woman with some spirit. It turns me on.” Seconds ticked by as he hovered just inches from her mouth. Emotion tightened her chest. Then his mouth was on her and her blood tingled.
His hand circled her throat. A feeling that she was in danger surfaced at the back of her mind. He lifted his face and peered into her eyes. “You’d better get out of here before I take you on the counter. I’m no good for you, Lacy.” His fingers tangled in her blond hair. “I’m from the wrong side of the tracks.” When she didn’t make an effort to leave, he snapped, “Go, get out of here!”
She stepped back when he released her. Eyes still on Dylan, she reached behind her and grabbed her purse. She walked out the door without looking back. He was correct. They came from two totally different worlds. Even though she was attracted to him, she also feared him.
****
Nerves had Lacy wringing her hands as she stepped to the desk and replied to the librarian, “I’m Lacy Reynolds. I called about viewing a couple of old newspapers.”
“Yes, Miss Reynolds. I have the microfiche ready for viewing on the table in the basement.” She took off her reading glasses and placed them on top of the book she had been reading. She gave Lacy a long look. Curious, she asked, “Are you searching your genealogy?”
Lacy wished that was all she was doing. “Yes, ma’am.”
Her gray hair was pulled back into a tight, neat bun. The woman looked all prim and proper just like a book worm. Lacy wondered if she had a social life or received her adventures staying home reading a book. A string of white pearls hung across her huge bosoms. A pristine white blouse was buttoned all the way to her neck. She pointed toward the door to the left. “Take the steps and then turn right. I pulled the microfiche for the Montgomery Herald for the year you requested from our archives. If you need anything else, just let me know.”
“Thank you.”
Only a couple of people were in the library. Two women were in the romance section reading the spines of books. Both looked up as she passed and smiled. Lacy pushed open the door and took the steps leading to the basement of the Taylorsville Library. When she got to the bottom, she turned right as the librarian had instructed. The musty smell filled her nostrils. She hated basements. A place without windows gave her the creeps.
Placing her purse on the table, she stepped to the projector and dropped into the chair. She turned the knob until she came to the date June 14, 1912, two days after Hilda’s disappearance. There was Hilda’s picture in black and white. Above it was the word MISSING in bold black letters. She placed her hand over her pounding heart. Her father had probably sat at that very spot and looked at the same microfiche. He wanted answers just like she did, but had not been able to find any hard clues to why Hilda disappeared.
She opened her purse and rummaged through until she found her notepad and pen. As she read, she jotted down some notes. After reading the article, Lacy sat in the chair and placed her head in her hands. Why had she thought she could find out anything more than her father had discovered about Hilda? The article didn’t help.
She turned the knob on the projector and peered at the newspaper article dated a week after Hilda’s disappearance. Her heart almost stopped beating when she saw a picture of the man Russell Reynolds accused of kidnapping his daughter. It was the same man she saw in her dream at the waterfall. The same man that had been kissing Hilda on the banks of the river. She read the article which was full of quotes from Russell accusing Darrell Talbert of kidnapping Hilda.
Did Darrell kill Hilda? Lacy couldn’t bring herself to believe it was him that took her life. But then the article never said Hilda was dead, just that she was missing. Only she knew Hilda died the day she went missing.
As she read on, her great, great, great Uncle Russ
ell told investigators Darrell Talbert worked for him on the farm. He described him as a quiet man and a hard worker. He continued with how much he wished he’d never trusted Darrell. The whole time he had worked at the farm, he had planned to rob him and kidnap his daughter.
Lies thought Lacy. Darrell loved Hilda. She saw that love with her own eyes in her dream. Maybe Russell didn’t know Hilda was in love with Darrell. Could be Darrell convinced her to leave with him so they could be together. She got a misty image of them at the falls with their meager belongings to start a new life. Then before they made their escape they were met with tragedy.
The next paragraph described in detail the stolen jewelry: A ruby and diamond necklace worth thousands of dollars. Lacy touched the ring on her finger and wondered if the necklace matched the ring. It was possible they were a set and could be the reason Darrell and Hilda took the piece of jewelry.
She read on. A gold bracelet Russell gave his wife to celebrate the birth of their first child, Hilda. A diamond ring surrounded by sapphires. Curious, Lacy wondered why the ruby and diamond ring and ivory cameo wasn’t mentioned.
It was possible Hilda considered the family jewelry belonged to her and she took the items so she and Darrell would have the funds to start a new life somewhere away from Taylorsville. Lacy sat back in the chair and rubbed her aching temples. She wasn’t getting anywhere. She was no closer to finding out what happened to Hilda.
“Damn, this is frustrating.” She whispered, “You’re going to have to help me Hilda.”
Turning the knob, she stopped on the next week’s newspaper. As she read the last article about the disappearance of Hilda Reynolds something caught her attention. Reporters had interviewed Anna Bell Graves, Darrell Talbert’s mother. Her pulse was racing. Billy Graves had to be connected to Anna Bell Graves. It was no coincidence that he had the same last name and Hilda’s jewelry. He had to know something about Hilda. She read Anna Bell’s quotes.
Secrets of the Falls (Twelve Oaks Farm Book 3) Page 8
