“Lacy, will you please bring me the diary? I think I can get a better reading from something hand written.” She handed him Hilda’s diary. A wide grin stretched over his face. “Thank you, my dear.” Eyes locked on hers, he asked, “Why do you think Hilda picked you to help her?”
She thought it odd he didn’t use the word haunt. “I think my bedroom was her bedroom. Honestly, I don’t know.”
“Has anyone else ever seen Hilda?”
Beth replied in a soft voice, “I have. I saw her one day when Josh and I were standing right where you are standing. It was the only time I saw her.”
“The first place I saw her was here at the falls. We were camping out under those trees.” Lacy’s voice lowered. “My parents, Nina and Beth. I was just a child.” She pointed toward the crop of oaks. “She made frequent appearances in my bedroom after that.”
“How long ago were your parents killed in the car accident?”
Funny, she didn’t tell him her parents were dead. Maybe Grant told him about the tragedy. “A year and a half ago.” Speaking of her parents made her sad. There was still a hole as big as the moon in her heart.
As if he knew she was thinking about her parents, he ordered, “Try to focus on Hilda.” People circled them with concern on their faces. Grant and Nina were probably remembering the last time they tried to help Hilda. She fell into the pool of ice cold water and would have drowned if Hilda would not have pushed her to the surface. Michelle looked as if she wished she were someplace besides the falls.
“I hope I get something for You-Tube.” Always looking for an adventure, Juan was videoing the whole ordeal with his phone.
Josh took Beth’s hand and pulled her back. Maria sat on the rocks with her legs tucked under her body biting her fingernails as she often did when she was nervous. Grace gave her a weak smile when her eyes locked with hers.
Richard placed the diary in between them on the grass. “Please give us some room.” Her family and friends moved back several feet. Richard offered both his hands. “Take my hands.” Lacy did as he ordered. His hands were warm and calloused. A picture of him in his workshop appeared in her head. Loud electric tools, loud music. As a hobby he built furniture. How did she know that?
“Close your eyes and go back to the first night you saw Hilda.” The memory of that night came rushing back as if it were yesterday. She didn’t know how she got out to the rocks overlooking the pool of water. All she could remember was Hilda standing on the top of the falls asking for help. Her green dress was covered with blood. Her coal black hair was wet as if she had fallen into the pool of water. Her hands motioned her to climb the rocks. Lacy took a deep cleansing breath as the sorrow of that night at the pool of water came crashing down.
Lacy could feel Richard sway. She opened her eyes and peered into his face. He had a look of pain on his face. “Close your eyes, Lacy. I have to see what you see.”
Together they stood there as one. His hands tightened around hers. It was almost painful as his grip intensified. He stepped closer and she could feel the warmth and power from his body. The sun heated her face. A light breeze ruffled her hair.
Lacy was at a party. She didn’t want to be there, but her father’s persistence she attend had won out in the end. Wearing a beautiful gown her dressmaker designed for her, she was outside under the moon and stars where the guests were already arriving.
The servants had outdone themselves. Everything was beautiful. Silver tablecloths covered two tables laden with food. Delicate silver plates and the family silver were set out for Taylorville’s finest citizens. Lots of champagne was being consumed. An orchestra strummed guitars, violins and various other instruments as guests danced. It looked like a fairytale scene.
Tray balanced on her hand, Anna Bell made her way toward Lacy. Dressed in a black and white maid outfit, she looked very professional. “You look beautiful.”
Nervous, Lacy raked her hands over her pale green gown. “Thank you.”
Her father had entertained on other occasions, but tonight was different. Earlier her mother had informed her that her father had another reason for the party. His business partner, Anthony McManess would be in attendance with his son Albert. Albert was twenty years her senior and they attended the same church. Often she had felt his bold, dark eyes burning into her. Even though her mother didn’t come right out and say it, she had hinted that the party was to formally introduce her to Albert. Rumor had it that he was looking for a wife because he needed an heir.
Suddenly she felt apprehensive as Albert strolled toward her. He smiled and she had to admit he was handsome. His blond hair was slicked back and his black suit looked striking on his tall form. Yet, there was something about him she did not like. He took her hand and kissed the back in a very gallant manner. The only emotion she felt was revulsion. “May I have this dance?”
It was on the tip of her tongue to refuse him, but out of the corner of her eye she got a glimpse of her father. Their eyes met and in them she saw a warning. Instead of speaking, she let him lead her to the dance floor. He held her right hand, then placed his other hand flat on her back. The orchestra was playing a waltz and he twirled her and she thought him an excellent dancer. Uncomfortable with the way his eyes bore into her, she looked away. “Do I make you nervous?”
“I don’t do well with strangers.”
“But I’m not a stranger. You have known me for years.”
He had hardly spoken to her when she was a child. Now that she was at a marital age, he had shown an interest in her. Her body had made subtle changes in the past few months and she had soft womanly curves. Still, she had given him no motivation to pursue her. Felt nothing for the man.
The music ended and he placed his hand on her elbow. “Let’s take a walk.”
“I don’t think that would be appropriate.”
Ignoring her protest, he tightened his hold on her elbow and led her along the path to the stables. Over her shoulder she glanced at her father. By his expression she knew he would not intervene. It was obvious he would be pleased with Albert as his son-in-law.
When they were a distance from the house, she pulled away from him. “I’m not interested in taking a walk with you, Albert. Please forgive my bluntness, but I have no intention of courting you.”
In the dim moonlight she saw his whole body stiffen. “I was under the impression that you also felt an attraction for me. Your father has misled me.”
“I’m sorry you have been deceived.” Instead of going back to the party, she ran to the front of the house. She wasn’t ready to face her father.
Time passed and Lacy was on the back of a horse. She was racing across the road that led to the falls. The wind tangled her long black hair. Tears streamed over her cheeks. Dirt smeared the front of her green dress. Leaning over the saddle horn, she urged Breeze to go faster. Sweat covered her horse because she had ridden Breeze hard. She was late because she had a terrible argument with her father about Albert. Fearing Darrell might leave before she arrived, panic overwhelmed her. She had to see him. She had to explain. She kicked Breeze in the sides to urge her to run faster.
The handprint was still on her cheek where her father had slapped her. Never in her life had her father lifted a hand to harm her. She could still feel the sting of his hand. He had never even raised his voice in anger. She was his little princess. All that changed because of his desire to wed her to Albert.
In the distance she could see Darrell sitting on the rocks by the pool of water at the foot of the falls. He stood and ran toward her. Breeze came to a sudden stop and she jumped to the ground and ran into her truelove’s arms. Seconds passed as Darrell held her. Neither said a word.
Darrell pushed her at arm’s length. Rough calloused thumbs wiped the tears from her cheeks. His thumbs felt like sandpaper against her tender skin. “What happened? Why are you crying?” She dropped her chin unable to look him in the eyes. He placed his fingers under her chin and forced her to meet his worried glar
e. He saw her father’s handprint on her cheek. “Did your father do this? Tell me why you are upset.”
“Father is forcing me to court Albert McManess. Our fathers have already decided it will benefit their businesses if we wed.”
“Do you have feelings for him? Mother said you danced with McManess last night at the party.”
“Of course not. Last night I was friendly to him to keep my father from becoming suspicious.” She fell against Darrell. “What will we do?”
His hands raked over her back. “We will talk to your father. We will tell him we are in love. We will make him understand.”
She lifted her face and peered at him. “Do you think he will listen?”
“Yes, he will listen. We’ll make him understand how much we love each other. I promise we will be married.”
Hands cupped to her face, he leaned down and pressed his lips to hers. They fell to the ground where they stood, lips locked in a passionate kiss. She placed her hand on his chest when he began to unbutton her dress. “I would rather die than to spend my life without you.”
He took her hand and pressed his lips to the inside. “I swear to you, we will be together always.”
Neither heard the sound of the approaching horse. He was on them before they had time to realize her father had followed her. Lacy felt his presence before she saw him. She struggled to her feet. Sitting on the back of his black stallion, her father was a sight to behold. It was like looking into the face of Satan. The anger chilled her to the bone. He pulled his pistol from the holster he wore around his waist. He pointed it at Darrell.
“How dare you dishonor my daughter’s virtue.” Lacy rushed forward both hands in the air. “No, Father, don’t! I love him.”
“Get on your horse and go home. I’ll take care of this trash.”
“Please, listen, Father. We love each other.” Again she explained, “I love him.”
Darrell pleaded, “Please, Mr. Reynolds. I wish to marry your daughter.”
Her father leveled the pistol at Darrell. She jumped in front of Darrell and screamed, “No, Father don’t. . .” The bullet tore into her chest. She lay on her back listening to the roar of the falls. The sun was bright and strong in her eyes. She could feel the life leaving her body. Two more shots and Darrell fell on top of her. With her last breath, she wrapped her arms around her truelove.
Lacy was on her knees gasping for air. It was as if what happened to Hilda had just happened to her. She placed her hand to her chest expecting to feel blood. The pain was excruciating. She felt as if she was dying.
Grant dropped down beside her and placed his hands on her shoulders. “Are you okay?” She opened her mouth but nothing came out. She couldn’t utter a single word. He shook her. “Lacy, are you okay?” She nodded her head. Weak and exhausted, she collapsed in his arms. He lifted her and held her against his chest. Both Nina and Beth were yelling her name.
Grant laid her in the soft grass. Nina pushed her damp hair away from her face. “Lacy, say something.”
She stuttered, “I’m okay.”
Seconds ticked by as her family and dear friends gathered around. Richard ordered, “Give her some room. She’ll be fine in a few minutes.” He plopped down on the rocks almost as exhausted as she was. His face was pale and his hands shook. He must have seen the same horrors she did. He saw Russell Reynolds kill Hilda and Darrell.
Grace unscrewed the cap on a bottle of water and handed it to Nina. Grant lifted Lacy up so she could take a few sips while Nina held the bottle. It seemed an eternity before she was able to speak.
“Hilda’s father killed her, then he killed Darrell. He caught them together right where I am lying. Hilda died in this very spot.” She held out her hand. “More water, please.” Feeling a little stronger, Lacy took the bottle from Nina and lifted it to her lips. The water felt heavenly against her parched lips. “He shot them.” Again her hand moved to her chest which still hurt like being burned with fire. “It was as if I was Hilda. I felt the impact when he pulled the trigger. I felt her pain. I died right here.” Russell didn’t mean to kill Hilda. He was aiming for Darrell when she stepped in front of him. She took the bullet meant for Darrell.
Grant asked, “Where did Russell bury the bodies?”
Richard answered, “We need to continue so we can discover where their bodies are buried. The connection was broken before we saw where Russell Reynolds buried them.”
“The hell you do. Lacy can’t take anymore.”
Lacy peered at Richard. “Did you also see what happened?”
“Yes, I saw it through Hilda’s eyes just as you did.” His voice was thick.
Pleading eyes stopped on Grant. “I have to continue, Grant. I have to find out where Hilda’s body is so she can cross over. She can’t until we find her remains. Please.”
“No. She’s been dead over a hundred years. I don’t think a few more years will make a difference.”
Lacy looked at Richard. “Can you determine where her father buried her body?”
He stood to his full height on shaky legs. “I’ll try.” He bent and picked up Hilda’s diary. Slowly he walked around the falls gripping the diary to his chest. He closed his eyes. No one said a word. Everyone intently watched him. “She’s gone. I’m not getting anything.”
Beth offered, “Maybe she crossed over. Could be she wanted you to know who killed her. Now that you know it was her father, she is at peace.”
Lacy shook her head. “Let’s hope she has crossed.” Deep down Lacy knew Hilda was still at the falls. She couldn’t see her, but she could feel her presence. They had accomplished nothing that would help Hilda. She was still a ghost in need of salvation. She wouldn’t cross over until they found her body.
****
It was past lunch time when they arrived back at the house. Lacy felt defeated hoping today she would have discovered where Hilda was buried. At least she now knew who killed her. If she would have been able to hold the connection with Richard, she would have watched Russell Reynolds bury the bodies. The thought had her shivering in horror. It was bad enough seeing her murdered, but the thought of watching her father carry her dead, limp body would have been even worse.
Grant came around the side of the truck at the very moment Richard was helping Grace off the tailgate. “I’ll go get your check.”
“I didn’t discover where Hilda was buried so you don’t owe me anything.” He leaned over and kissed Grace on the cheek. “I had a wonderful day in one of the most beautiful places I have laid eyes on, and I have traveled the world. I feel as if I’ve been on a vacation. I have to admit the company has been wonderful also.”
“Don’t be ridiculous. You should be paid.”
“I refuse to take any money, Grant.”
Nina stepped around Grant who was glaring at Richard as if he’d like to kill him. “Would you like to stay for lunch? We’re going to prepare some sandwiches.”
“Now honey, I’m sure Mr. Lewis has another appointment since he leads such a busy life. There’s probably some dead body somewhere needs finding.”
Tucking his arm into Grace’s, Richard’s face split into a huge grin. “Call me Richard. I’d love to stay for lunch.” He tugged Grace toward the house. “Shall we wash up?”
The look Grant gave Nina would have melted ice. When Grace and Richard were out of hearing distance, he snapped, “I don’t like him. I don’t think. . .”
Josh interrupted, “He comes on a little too strong. He’s practically drooling all over Mama.”
Beth shook her finger at Josh and then Grant. “You two should be ashamed of yourselves. Your Mother seems to be enjoying Mr. Lewis’ flirtations. I’m sure it’s nothing serious. There’s no harm in letting them spend some time together.”
“I don’t want to see my mother get hurt. The man probably acts this way with all women. He’s probably a womanizer.” Grant turned on his heel and started for the house.
Nina ran to catch up with him. “Stop being silly. I�
��m sure he’s harmless.”
Lacy was glad Mr. Lewis was staying for lunch. She hoped she got the chance to speak with him alone. She had questions she wanted to ask him about what happened at the falls. Maybe she could convince him to go back another time. She didn’t like lying to Grant, but she was not going to leave Hilda in limbo. If she had to go behind Grant’s back, that was exactly what she intended to do. She was so close to the end of her journey with Hilda.
Michelle and Juan sat on the back of the tailgate. Juan asked, “Would you like to see what I recorded?”
Michelle on one side, Lacy on the other, Juan held his phone. The volume was loud enough to hear every word spoken by her and Richard. It was obvious she was nervous. Then she watched her expression change. Her eyes were heavy with passion. A slight moan escaped her lips and she threw her head back as if someone was kissing her neck. “This is embarrassing.”
Michelle giggled. “What were you doing?”
“I was making out with Darrell Talbert. I felt everything Hilda felt.”
Both Juan and Michelle looked at her. Embarrassed, Lacy felt her face turn red. Too ashamed to look them in the face she peered at the screen of the phone. Pain contorted Richard’s face. He was seeing the same thing she was seeing, felt the same agony.
It was strange when she heard herself yell, “No, father!” Everything that happened to her could be seen on the recording. It all came back to her in a rush. Then she watched herself fall to her knees holding her chest. She couldn’t explain any of it, couldn’t understand what happened.
“Heaven forbid I see that on YouTube.” Lacy knew Juan would never post something that would upset her. She was just trying to make light of the situation.
He placed his hand over hers. “So you became Hilda?”
“Yes, I felt every emotion she did. First there was anxiety, then passion, and last pain as she lay on the grass, her life’s blood pouring from her body. Can you imagine? Her own father shot her. How could he live with himself after doing something so horrid?” The ache went into her. She pressed her fingers to her temples and tried to massage the terrible headache away.
Secrets of the Falls (Twelve Oaks Farm Book 3) Page 18
