At her look of revulsion, he added, “I’m not asking you to do it. I just want to know.”
“I might be able to get into his mind again, I don’t know. It happened inadvertently last night, probably because his feelings were so intense. He was broadcasting like crazy.” She touched a hand to her forehead. “Under normal circumstances, when he’s just going through his typical day? I don’t know if I could. I don’t think I have that kind of control yet, I might not be able to get out once I’m there.” She shuddered but said. “Maybe, I could try.”
“No. I’m not suggesting that. I can’t ask you to do that.” He paused, then with infinite tenderness he asked, “Have you told anyone else that you’ve tapped into this guy?”
She looked surprised by the question. “No. You’re the only person I’ve spoken to about this.”
“Good. Keep it that way.” His voice was taut with tension and she understood.
“I get it. If he knew I could tap into him, he’d come after me, wouldn’t he?”
“We don’t know that for sure, but that’s what I’m afraid of.”
“I didn’t think of that angle.” She shook her head in disbelief.
His hand caressed her shoulder, “That’s what I get paid for. I’m going to talk with Reggie so she understands the stakes here. Ernestine probably already knows. I’ll be with you as much as I can. I can’t seem to stay away. But when I can’t be with you, I need you to promise you’ll be extra careful.”
“Of course I will…you’re scaring the bejeebies out of me.”
“Sorry. I’ll make sure you have a number where I can be reached at all times. I’ll also give you Chase and Sam’s cell numbers, just in case. I trust them. Stay alert and watch Hank. He’ll notice what you don’t. Be aware of his reactions. Dogs are much more in tune than people.”
She scratched the dog’s ears and said, “So I’ve noticed.”
He hesitated with his next question, “Would you agree to meet with Marcie Maitland? You might pick up something.”
“Of course, I’ll meet with her. I spoke to her about Hank just last week. I liked her. Maybe I can help.”
“Good. You’re a superhero. You know that?” He grinned.
She laughed as she was meant to and said, “Thank you for what you did last night.”
“I’m glad you called me.”
“That’s not all I’m referring to. You were able to touch my thoughts, calm me. It was incredible.”
He bowed slightly and said with a twang, “Glad to be of some assistance, ma’am. But if it’s all the same to you, this morning was my favorite part.” She giggled as he pulled her abruptly onto his lap.
He looked at her seriously and said, “It’s never been that way for me before Gilly. Don’t get me wrong, for me, sex is always great, but lady, with you, it’s the Olympic gold medal round.”
“It is, isn’t it?” The kiss they shared was infinitely sensual. He took her hand and walked with her to the bedroom. She found herself trying to rush him but he forestalled her, taking his sweet time. Every sensation was new, every touch, felt like the first. He tasted every inch of her and could never get enough. Their lovemaking was slow and easy, a thing of beauty. There’d been too much violence, too much ugliness.
Utterly spent, they sprawled on the bed. Hank discreetly ignored them. They were quiet for a very long time, content just to hold each other. They both had very pleasant dreams that night.
The morning dawned bright and sunny. Gillian opened her eyes to find him looking at her, a bemused look in his white-gold eyes. “You make the cutest noises in your sleep. In fact, you make the cutest noises when I kiss you right here.” He touched his lips to her neck. Before she could help herself, she made a little sound in her throat and started to giggle.
“Speaking of noises, you make a few of your own you know.” She breathed in sharply as he continued his progress.
He murmured against her skin, “I’m sure I do. I have very little control when it comes to you.” He proceeded to prove his point. By the time he left for work she was left breathless but very, very, satisfied
Reggie was working on her computer when Travis strode in.
“Good morning, Travis.” She called out to him.
“Reg, we have to talk.” He moved to the couch and sat down, beckoning her to join him. “Sit down, this isn’t good news and you need to know.”
“It’s about time.” When he didn’t react she said, “I’m assuming Gillian has something to do with all this.”
“In a way. The night I left you at Kally’s she’d figured out what it was that had triggered her spell in the supermarket.” He took a deep breath. “Sandy Jackson was raped. Gillian touched her and knew immediately what she was feeling. It came on so fast and was so intense her unconscious blacked her out in self defense.”
Regina looked stricken, “Rape? Oh my God, poor Sandy. Is she okay?”
“She’s incredibly strong. I think she’s going to be fine. Gillian has been helping her.”
“That’s no surprise. She has a big heart.”
“That’s not all I have to tell you.” His voice was low and firm. “Marcie Maitland was raped on Monday night. She’s in the hospital. She was beaten.”
“Oh my God. How is she?”
“She’ll recover but it’s going to take time. Even Ernestine has said that since this is a police matter, it’s my duty. Uncharacteristically, she’s backed off. Gillian has somehow tapped into this bastard’s mind and she’s trying to provide me with what information she can, but her gift puts her in danger. If he ever found out, I don’t want to imagine what he’d do.”
Reggie’s eyes were wide with concern. She knew all about Gillian’s unpredictable gift. Her voice was steady when she said simply, “What can I do to help?”
He wasn’t surprised by her reaction. Reggie was a rock. “I’m doing all I can right now. I’ve been in touch with the FBI and all other law enforcement databases in the country. Unfortunately, we don’t have much to go on. Neither Sandy nor Marcie could identify him. So far, there’s no physical evidence pointing in any direction. This guy is organized and he knows about evidence.” He sighed and shook his head. “Right now, I’m doing everything a mere mortal can do.”
“And Ernestine’s staying out of it, damn her.”
“She says she can’t give me anything. I trust her.” He ran a hand through his hair. “Watch out for Gillian and promise me you’ll be careful. Keep Pru with you. I know she’s not much of a watchdog but she’s protective and sensitive. Just use good sense. Until we catch this guy, refrain from meeting clients alone, even if you know them. He could be anyone.”
“Damn it. I felt a hell of a lot better when I didn’t know any of this.” She rolled her eyes at him and he gave her a quick hug. “I promise to be extra careful. I’m no hero.”
“You are to me.” He kissed her on the forehead and walked out.
Chapter 18
Travis called Gillian midday and made a date for dinner. He needed to take her out, take their minds off the case. There was something about this woman that pulled at him. And it had since he first laid eyes on her. He saw what he wanted and went after it, not unusual for him, but Reggie was right. Gillian wasn’t his possession. She was so much more than that. He felt a sharp stab of guilt.
Poor thing, despite her strength, she’d had no chance. He’d decided she was for him and that was that. He didn’t even know how long she’d be here in town, although by relinquishing her house to Gillian, Ernestine proved she knew more than she was telling. Gillian herself had told him nothing about her future plans. He worried that he’d bulldozed her into this relationship long before she was ready and he had no idea where it would take them. Emotionally, he’d given her nothing, no promises, no declarations. Hell he’d never even taken her out for a meal. The timing sucked. He wondered how things would have gone down had he met her under different circumstances. He knew he’d have wanted her no matter what her situatio
n and said a silent prayer of thanks that she hadn’t been married. He wasn’t sure that would have stopped him, despite his well developed moral compass.
Well, he’d wine and dine her tonight. She deserved it. He picked up the phone and spoke to the owner of his favorite Italian restaurant.
Pleased with Travis’s invitation, Gillian mentally reviewed the clothes she had in her closet and realized she had no idea where he planned to take her. She picked up the phone. As usual, Reggie was happy to impart her wisdom, but before hanging up, she also shared her concern.
“Be careful, Gill. The whole town’s reeling about Sandy and Marcie. We’re not nearly as happy-go-lucky as we were when you first arrived…we can be a superstitious lot. People are giving each other the evil eye, I swear. Just to make everyone even more edgy, Ernestine’s not talking. She told me this is for you and Travis to work out together.”
“Oh, no pressure...” Gillian moaned. Unfortunately, Reggie wasn’t able to offer her much that could offset the weight she carried, so after she hung up, Gillian turned to her design work; always a good way to take her mind off things.
As good as his word, Travis arrived one minute early. She was ready and met him at the door. His eyes traveled the length of her slim form in approval. Gillian knew she looked good. The “little black dress” was a slip of nothing on a hanger, but when her deceptively modest shape gave it form, it was a knockout. To complement it, she wore strappy black sandals. They were utterly impractical but if the look in Travis’s eye was anything to go by, they were sexy as hell.
He took her hands in his and said, “Baby, you clean up good.” He kissed her gently on the forehead.
“I could say the same about you.” He looked magnificent in a lightweight summer suit. It had been tailored to perfection and he carried it off like he was born to it. This man wore a suit, it didn’t wear him.
He laughed and said, “Thank Reggie. She loves to dress me spending my money with absolutely no conscience. However, if you approve, it’s worth every penny.”
She nodded vigorously. “Then I take back every impolite thing I said to her when I got my AMEX bill. Are you ready to go?”
Hank woofed softly, and commanded their attention. He looked particularly handsome in his vest.
In the driveway, sat a large vintage white Cadillac, Gillian raised her eyebrows and turned to comment but he beat her to it.
“It was my Grandfather’s. I don’t drive it much because it’s positively gas ravenous, but it is roomy and drives like a dream.” He patted the ragtop of the car as he opened the door and ushered Hank inside. “Hank’s going to love it. It’s just his size.”
She was pleased he didn’t hesitate to let Hank jump into the backseat of his beautiful car, dusty paws and all.
Their conversation on the way to the restaurant was lively. They were never at a loss for things to say to each other. She was enjoying herself and, from what she could tell, so was he.
After a very scenic drive, they pulled up to Luigi’s. The parking lot was almost full, a very good sign. The owner greeted Travis like an old friend. Travis introduced her and Luigi said, “Ah Miss Gillian, it is a great pleasure to meet you. When Travis called to say he was bringing someone special tonight I was most honored. And such a dog! He’s a beauty.”
He’d obviously been told about Hank and led them to a beautifully laid out booth in the back of the restaurant. It afforded just the right amount of privacy.
As soon as Luigi left, Travis grabbed her and slid her along the seat so she was sitting closer and said, “There, that’s better. You didn’t think I’d let you sit all the way over there all evening did you?” He pressed his lips to her cheek.
The meal was wonderful. They talked throughout and of course didn’t agree on all issues but they were evenly matched and definitely enjoyed the discussion.
The drive back was filled with comfortable silence but about a mile from the restaurant, Travis noticed lights in the rear view mirror. There had been no other cars in the parking lot of the restaurant when they’d pulled out. It was odd to find another car on the deserted road at this late hour. The lights stayed the same distance behind them as he sped up or slowed down. There was no question someone was following them. If he were alone he’d figure out a way to turn the tables on the guy and confront him, but with Gillian and Hank in the car he didn’t dare take the chance. “What is it?” She looked back at the lights behind them.
He nodded at the reflection in the rearview mirror. “This guy’s been with us since we left the restaurant.”
“So what now?”
“I think I’ll just lead him around for a bit.”
“Do you think it’s him?”
He shrugged, keeping his eyes focused straight ahead as he turned down a deserted dirt road. The car tailing them fell back a good distance, but still followed.
“Ah, he’s more cautious now. I think he knows we’ve spotted him.” Travis pressed a button on his cell and was instantly connected to his office. A voice sounded over the speaker and Travis interrupted.
“Tell Brown to head out to Luigi’s restaurant. I’m in the Caddy on the laneway that leads to Pinchot Road. We’re being followed. I want Brown to cut off access and catch this guy.”
Maneuvering the big car with expertise, Travis took a hairpin turn smoothly and looked in the mirror. No lights. He slowed the car and waited. Still no lights.
“Looks like he’s backed off. Damn it!”
Ten minutes later they saw the lights of Brown’s police cruiser. He’d found nothing. The guy just disappeared.
“He’s gone now. Must have known the area to be able to get away without a trace.” Brown said.
Travis nodded. “Yeah, you’re probably right.” Looking at Gillian he said, “I should probably get you home.”
* * * *
When they made it to Gillian’s house, Travis didn’t mince words.
“No games, Gilly I want to stay the night. Not because I’m a cop and you need protection, but because I need to be with you. I know I haven’t given you much choice in this relationship so far. Forgive me. I have very little control around you.”
She could see the vulnerability in his eyes when he made his little speech and admitted to herself that it was a good thing he was aggressive. If it were up to her, they’d probably still be dancing around each other. She decided, it was about time to live her life instead of worrying it away. She’d take what was offered gladly and proceeded to jump in with both feet.
Assuming her best grade school teacher face she said, “Shut up and come to bed.”
It took him a second to believe what he’d heard. When it sunk in, he characteristically ran one hand and then the other through his thick hair. With a triumphant smile, he picked her up and took her to the bedroom.
Neither of them got much sleep that night but when morning came, they still found some residual energy. She happily made him a breakfast of thick, crusty French toast with maple syrup and whipped cream. At the office, Caroline was astonished when, for the first time since she’d known him, Travis ignored the box of donuts sitting beside the coffeemaker and got right down to work.
It was a busy day but it heralded no good news. They’d found no useful forensic evidence at either crime scene or on the victim’s bodies or clothes. By now, the entire town was edgy. Everyone seemed to have something to say about the crimes. As was typical of the citizens of New Crescent, they’d rallied around the women and offered support. Parents were more strict than usual with their daughters’ curfews and people were locking their doors at night for a change. There was indeed, trouble in New Crescent and now everyone knew it.
It took a great deal of time tracking down every tip and interviewing everyone who thought they had information. Travis worked tirelessly all day trying to eliminate suspects and only took time out to call Gillian and make arrangements to pick her and Hank up for dinner at his parents’ house.
Despite the atmosphere in the res
t of the town, the Sinclair house was alive with celebration, almost in defiance. The Sinclairs were famous for their parties and no one missed an opportunity to attend.
Gillian could hear voices, music and laughter coming from the huge living room. In the foyer, Travis took hold of her before she could walk towards the room. He hugged her close, then tilted his head down and took possession of her mouth in a thrilling kiss. “Let’s ditch all these people and go back to my place I have an altogether different kind of fun in mind.” He nuzzled her neck sending shivers down her spine. His attempt at persuasion was halted by a deep voice.
“Pace yourself, son.” Bill Sinclair stood in the doorway. He was smiling that devastating smile and Gillian was instantly charmed.
He ushered them into the living room and said, “In you come, both of you. Gillian, my girl, stay away from Travis or he’ll get his hands on you again.” She laughed when Travis shrugged helplessly and said, “He knows me so well.”
The huge room looked as festive as it had sounded from the hallway. Vases full of colorful flowers adorned almost every available surface. Travis’s mother, Ruth was dressed just as colorfully, in red silk trousers and blouse. She beamed at her son as he approached. He bent and kissed her on the check. “The place looks beautiful, Mom.”
She nodded her thanks and said, “Welcome, Gillian, what will you have to drink?” Reggie joined them and gave Gillian a hearty hug. She said, “Bill is a great bartender.” She raised her glass to him as he moved to the bar. “He’s so handy. He can make any drink you’d like. He can’t cook to save his life, but ask him to make a drink and it’s done before you finish the sentence.” She nodded to Ruth, “She cooks and he makes the drinks. A match made in heaven.”
Gillian nodded and looked over at Travis. He was as compelling from a distance as he was close up. He was standing with Chase and Sam; their conversation was lively. He looked over and their eyes met. In that moment she wished she’d taken him up on his offer earlier. She could see the undisguised interest in his eyes and her heart did a dance in her chest.
Trouble [New Crescent 1] (BookStrand Publishing Romance) Page 14
