Finding Elizabeth

by Louise Forster

  “Well, we would’ve been here sooner, but there was this moose and …” Jack stepped over Eric’s body. A pair of hands clutched his ankle.

  “She’s mine, you can’t have her. She’s mine,” Eric whined.

  Jack paid no attention and dragged Eric across the floor. He smiled. “You look beautiful, Katherine Bell. I’m very happy to see you’re not bruised, bleeding or broken.”

  “Wait, back up a little,” Katherine began.

  It was difficult with a body hanging off his leg, but not wanting to risk the little he’d gained in Katherine’s eyes, he did try.

  “Not like that you twit—about the moose!” She rolled her eyes and turned to Leandra. “What happened?”

  “There was a huge bull on the road just out of Banff Springs. And he was massive!” Leandra stressed with her hands out wide. “He had an itch, scratched it with the car and wandered off.”

  “Oh. How’s the car?” Katherine asked Jack.

  “Not a scratch.” Jack hadn’t thought to look and didn’t care.

  The lights went on, and seconds later, footsteps thundered down the hall towards them.

  Dave stuck his head out the door. “It’s Phil.”

  Eric moaned and let go of Jack’s ankle.

  “The police are right behind me,” Phil told them.

  Eric started to get up. With his foot, Jack shoved him down again.

  The sound of feet thundered down the hall. “That’ll be the police,” Phil said.

  Jack and Dave grabbed Eric under the shoulders and dragged him out to the hall.

  “Nice suit.” Phil’s eyebrows shot up as far as they would go. “Now that’s a suit for going places—”

  Jack looked down and stroked his jacket. “See? Phil likes it,” he quipped.

  “—like the Mardi Gras or Cirque du Soleil,” Phil said drily as he clomped off down the hall.

  “I’ll fit right in at Pierre’s Banff Springs Hotel dinner.”

  Eric grunted as Jack and Dave handed him to the police.

  An officer asked questions and told them all to meet him at the station and make a statement.

  “Well,” Katherine sighed, stepping up beside Jack as they trooped down the hall. “I’m sorry about the mess I’ve dragged you all into.”

  “Are you kidding! It’s the best fun I’ve had in ages,” Leandra giggled. “It’s so good to see Eric face down on the floor. I bet the police will keep him in gaol until he’s sober,” she laughed. “It’s priceless.”

  Catching up with Phil, Jack asked, “Can we use your phone? Pierre was a nervous wreck when we left.”

  “Yeah, you nearly had a bus-load dropping by,” Dave added.

  “Sure, you can use the one in the office,” Phil told him.

  “Thanks,” Katherine said. “Sorry for dragging you out on a night like this.”

  “I wouldn’t have missed it either.” Phil held his arm out for Katherine and led her to his office.

  “That’s a good looking egg,” Jack nodded towards Dave’s forehead as they followed.

  “Yeah, I know. I have a matching pair. The other one’s growing on the back of my head.” Dave touched both lumps and winced. He peered at Jack. “You haven’t seen your face yet, mate.”

  “You both need ice,” Leandra murmured trying not to smile.

  “I’d prefer my ice in a drink,” Dave pointed out. “I’ll deal with my face later when I fall into the nearest snowdrift.”

  “And why would you be doing that?” Leandra asked.

  Dave gave her a wicked grin, typical of Dave and no one else. “To top the night off.”

  “You’re not making any sense. There are far better ways to top the night.” Leandra raised an eyebrow, and Dave got his look thrown back at him.

  Jack watched them with wry amusement. He shook his head and flexed his jaw.

  “How bad is it?” Katherine asked.

  “Oh, Christ!” Jack flinched. “I didn’t hear you.”

  “It’s the thick carpet, meant to muffle crowd noise. So how’s your face?”

  “Fine, thanks. Dave’s worse off.”

  “Huh?” Dave spun around.

  “Oh lord, that’s awful.” Katherine reached forward to touch Dave’s forehead.

  “No one comes near me,” Dave said, hands out, palms up.

  “I’m so sorry,” Katherine said. “We need a couple of ice packs.”

  “Isn’t it weird how these two are all banged up when we were the ones who sent Eric sprawling to the floor, and we don’t have a mark on us,” Leandra crowed.

  Dave squared his shoulders and asked Jack, “Do you feel dick-less—ball-less?”

  “Nuh,” Jack stated happily, “I’m quite proud. Think about it, we know a couple of hot, kick-arse women.” His grin widened.

  “Ball-less?!” Leandra burst out laughing and pointed at Dave’s head. “There’s one on your forehead you can be very proud of.”

  “How long has this been going on?” Katherine whispered to Jack with a sideways nod at Leandra and Dave.

  “Since your performance, and from the moment we left the town hall,” he whispered back.

  “This could get nasty. Do you think we should separate them?” Katherine asked.

  “Nah, let them slug it out,” Jack chuckled.

  “Okay,” Phil said, sauntering out of the office. “Let’s get to the police station.”

  Icy air hit them the moment they stepped out the door.

  Phil looked at them over the roof of his car. “It’s been an interestin’ evenin’. Night, ladies and gents.” He hopped in and took off, thick clouds of condensation in his wake.

  “Let’s get going before they find us here tomorrow morning frozen to the spot.” Jack held his arm out for Katherine.

  “Thank you for coming out on this icy night.” She kissed Dave and Jack on the cheek and, arms out, went to hug Leandra.

  “If you hug me for—for doing this,” Leandra bristled, “I’ll … I don’t know. I’ll think of something.”

  “I want to hug you because you’re my friend, and I love you.”

  “That’s all right then.”

  The granite steps had a glazed look. Katherine stumbled. Jack caught her around the waist and swung her into his arms.

  “What do you think you’re doing?” she asked, sounding surprised.

  “Saving your arse from bouncing down the steps.”

  “What about your arse? I happen to know all about these conditions.” She flung her arms around his neck anyway. “Do not drop me or slip. I don’t fancy spending the holidays in a hospital bed.”

  “I promise to come visit—I might even bring fruit,” Jack said drily and put her down to open the car door. He glanced up to see why the other two hadn’t come down yet. He grinned when he saw they were having a hot debate with a lot of hand waving and pointing.

  Leandra placed one stiletto heel on the granite step.

  Come on, Dave. Now’s your chance to get your balls back! In the next breath, Dave picked Leandra up in his arms. He came down the steps without incident and put her into the back seat. He slid in the opposite side, took her hands in his and rubbed them warm. Leandra’s eyes were round and bewildered, but she didn’t pull away.

  Go Dave, Jack smiled. “Okay, police station first,” he said, sounding amused. “And there’s a party waiting for us.”

  “Yeah, and watch out for mooses,” Dave said.

  Compared with the nightmare Katherine had just been through, walking into the friendly atmosphere of the Banff Springs Hotel was bliss. She’d made a statement to the police; they understood her situation, and Eric was charged. She knew he’d be out on bail first thing in the morning. All she could do was wait for the restraining order. The nature of Eric’s behaviour made him unpredictable, and perhaps dangerous. Katherine needed stability and comfort and, without thinking, she slipped her hand into Jack’s. His step slowed, and he curled his fingers through hers. She glanced up, and the look on his face was pr
iceless. He lost the battle against a smile and let it rip.

  They left their cloaks and overcoats at the check-in counter.

  The straight-faced concierge behind the reception desk eyed Jack. “Lovely suit, sir,” he quipped.

  Jack tugged at his jacket. “I picked it out specially,” he said drily.

  “Well done, sir. No one could wear that colour quite like you do.”

  “A man of taste.” Jack gave him a nod, held out his arm for Katherine, and together they strolled down the long reception hall and into the restaurant.

  They entered the dining hall, all eyes turned their way. The troupe erupted with raucous applause, cheers, pointing and laughter.

  “The suit is a definite hit,” Dave told him. “Oh-oh, get ready, here comes the huggin’ and kissin’”

  Tears welling, Pierre rose from his seat at the head of the table and, arms outstretched, hurried to Katherine’s side. “Oh, my Katy—Katy!” he gushed. “It’s so good to see you all in one piece. What an ordeal, you poor darling.”

  “I told you on the phone Leandra and I are fine. Can’t say the same for the boys.”

  Pierre hugged her so tightly she could barely breathe, then kissed her cheeks and hugged her again. “There’s nothing like seeing it for myself.” He turned to Leandra and gave her the same treatment. He turned to Jack and Dave. “Eric’s more of a danger than I thought.”

  “Nah, a lucky swing is all—with a bottle!” Dave chuckled.

  Katherine turned to all the doe-eyed dancers around the table and, hands in eastern prayer, she made a slight bow in thanks. “I suppose you’ve met my knights in shining armour?” More applause. “Okay, good.”

  “Come, all of you, sit,” Pierre bustled. “I’m sure you’re ready for a glass of champagne and something to eat. I couldn’t ask everyone to wait, so we’re a little ahead of you.” He raised his hand and caught a waiter’s attention. “Bring their dinners in please, and two bags of crushed ice, thank you.”

  “Make it three,” Dave said, wincing as he touched the back of his head.

  Chapter 9

  Katherine pulled Jack by the hand and manoeuvred him behind the table to the empty chairs. She had to confess, hand holding with Jack was becoming addictive. But then, everything about Jack was.

  “Did anyone tell you you have great hands?” she said softly.

  “No.” Jack glanced at her across his shoulder. Wry amusement played across his face.

  She giggled. My God, I giggled. And her heart did a little flip. The longer he looked at her that way, the more she couldn’t breathe. In an instant, delicious heat spread with a feathered touch down from her throat to her chest, to her abdomen and beyond.

  “I’m ravenous,” she whispered looking into his eyes. Wow, where the hell had that come from? Her throat was dry and her tongue wouldn’t work properly. She swallowed and, just as she pulled her gaze away, she saw his smile broaden.

  Jack leaned closer and nibbled her ear, “Hmmm.” He straightened, stroked the small of her back and pulled out a chair for her.

  Her knees buckled and her bottom hit the seat. A warm glow flushed her cheeks. She reached for her glass and took a welcome gulp of cool water. Jack sat down. His thigh pressed against hers, and Katherine nearly choked on her water. Thank God a diversion was about to arrive. Good. Food will keep Jack busy. Waiters were coming through with their entrees of Canadian smoked salmon on slices of bruschetta.

  Pierre pushed his chair back and stood. “Before you all tuck in …” When he was sure he had everyone’s attention, he raised his glass. “People,” he said, “a toast to Katherine and her three friends Leandra, Jack and Dave.” Glasses clinked around the table. “We thank them for their gallantry, and Katherine’s safe return.”

  “Thank you,” Katherine said.

  “Gallantry,” Jack whispered on the verge of laughing. “That’s why Dave and I look like the walking wounded.”

  “Aw, it’s just as well you had backup,” Katherine grinned, and sipped her wine.

  As conversations hummed among the dancers, Katherine realised she would miss the troupe, but not the way of life.

  Jack’s muscled thigh rubbed gently against Katherine’s. If he didn’t stop this blatant body-flirting, she might just have to throw herself into a bucket of ice water.

  “Will you stop with the leg?” Katherine murmured, giving him a witchy smile she was sure he’d have trouble interpreting.

  “What did you say?” he asked, brushing his lips seductively against her ear.

  Boy, he sure knew how to behave badly. “You’re incorrigible,” she laughed softly.

  “So!” Pierre began in a big voice directed at Jack.

  “Huh?” Jack started and chuckled.

  Didn’t matter what he did, Katherine loved the sound of Jack’s voice.

  “What brings you to this part of the world, Jack?” Pierre went on.

  Jack rested his elbows on the table and clasped his hands together, relaxed and attentive. “I’m searching for someone,” he answered, clearing his throat.

  Pierre straightened. “How interesting. And how are you getting on?”

  A waiter appeared behind Jack, asking if he’d like more champagne. Jack put his hand over the top of his glass. “No thanks.”

  “And?” Pierre continued. “Are you getting closer to finding him or her?”

  Across the table, Leandra placed her knife and fork down and leaned closer. “Ooh, I love a good mystery. Tell us all about it,” she said eagerly.

  “I haven’t had any luck,” Jack sighed. “I have a few leads, but I can’t investigate those until after the Christmas break.”

  “What leads do you have?” Pierre asked, eyes wide, enjoying the gossip.

  “The lady’s name is Ellie Johnson, last known address is Spruce Valley. You wouldn’t know of her by any chance. Anyone?” Jack scanned the faces surrounding the table.

  Katherine looked on as conversation rippled among the dancers. Most were shrugging and shaking their heads. She had hoped someone might know something, but it appeared Jack was out of luck.

  “Excuse me,” Charlotte announced from the other end of the table, “I know of an Ellie Johansen.”

  “Great,” Jack looked hopeful and leaned forward. “What can you tell me?”

  “Well,” Charlotte gave a little shrug, “Earlene married Peter Mathers. I believe they met in Australia. Or was it Austria?” Charlotte frowned, thinking hard. “Not sure. Oh, that’s not much help is it? Anyway, they had a daughter Sasha, who’s still living with her mum. The father took off about fifteen years ago; he was a tracker. The story is he—he lost his way back,” she giggled.

  Katherine laughed, and quickly slapped a hand over her mouth. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to sound unsympathetic.”

  Jack gave Katherine a feigned ‘you’re-naughty’ look, and turned to the dancers. “Thanks, Charlotte, I’ll make some discreet inquiries. If you happen to remember anything at all,” Jack glanced Pierre’s way, “I don’t think Pierre would mind passing a message on to me. Thanks, everyone,” he said, and raised his glass to them.

  Pierre tugged at his bow-tie and cleared his throat before asking, “Are you at liberty to say who is employing you?”

  “I’m not employed. I’m doing this for my stepfather Andrew Riley. Ellie was his fiancée. They lost contact nearly thirty-three years ago.”

  “Oh, how sad.” Pierre dabbed his mouth. “Please go on, I love a good romance mystery. How did they lose touch? Did they have a falling out?”

  “Nothing like that. Andrew went to Cambodia, and after months of no contact the Australian Embassy declared him missing. Andrew was missing for a while, even to himself; the jungle can do that to a man. Months later, the embassy received a report about two foreigners found dead in a remote village. As Andrew had Ellie Johnson down as next of kin, she received the formal notice.”

  Katherine looked at her uncle, who had turned pale. “Are you all right?”

&nbs
p; “Couldn’t be better, my sweet,” he said, blowing her a kiss.

  She blew one back, but Jack caught it, and her uncle laughed.

  An interesting debate, edging towards argument, was taking place between Leandra and Dave.

  Katherine nudged Jack. “What do you suppose is going on with those two?”

  “They want to kill each other, just as soon as they’ve had sex.”

  “Really?” Katherine sipped her wine, and peered at them over her glass. No, she whispered to herself. Leaning forward, arms on the table, she tried to eavesdrop on their conversation.

  “You’re a Neanderthal, comparing me to a car,” Leandra complained.

  “And not just any car, honey, a Ferrari.” Dave gave her a toothy, I’m-gonna-bite-you grin. “You break all speed records and scare the crap out of people, me included.”

  “Oh, what a disappointment.” Leandra’s eyes squinted, sparkling dangerously. “You’re intimidated by fast women.”

  “No, you’ve got that wrong. Fast women turn me on—the faster the better.” And just to stir things up, Dave locked eyes with Leandra and gave her a smouldering, penetrating look.

  Quickly, Katherine turned away. She couldn’t work out whether Leandra was in deep trouble or loving every moment—maybe both.

  Jack nudged her thigh with his. “See what I mean?”

  Katherine softly laughed and started a little flirting of her own. “My salmon melts in my mouth, here, take a bite.” She raised her fork and fed Jack a piece of her salmon. They fed each other morsels right through to dessert.

  As waiters poured coffee, Pierre sipped the last of his cognac, stood and said goodnight. Worried, Katherine rose to check on her uncle, who looked pale.

  “Thanks for a lovely night, and for including Jack and Dave.”

  “You’re on the verge of a new life,” he whispered in her ear as he hugged her tight. He smiled, kissed her cheeks and left.

  Half an hour later, fatigue had begun to settle over Katherine. “I’m done in. Jack, would you mind taking me home?”

  “My pleasure.” He turned to Leandra and Dave. “We’re leaving. You guys need a lift?”