Maggie's Image (Maggie McGill Mysteries Book 1)

by Sharon Burch Toner

  They had just started on second cups of coffee and tea when Harry Cavanaugh and John Landis entered the dining room. Harry and John helped themselves to coffee and Harry introduced John to everyone except Andre. Andre and John greeted one another heartily.

  Harry looked at them and smiled. “Well, good news for you all. During the night we rounded up and arrested Ahmed and thirty-seven others from his organization. We’re looking for a few others. With cooperation from you five we should be able either to put them out of circulation or at least deport them.”

  Maggie’s heart jumped with hope. “Does that mean that we’re out of danger?” she asked.

  Harry smiled at her affectionately, “Yes, Maggie, I think so. The organization has been squashed with the arrest of these people. Anyone we haven’t found probably will run for cover until they’re caught. I think the danger to the five of you is past.”

  Harry leaned forward and continued, “We’ve watched the house in Hollywood and we’ve had a tap on the phone since we found it. Last night we got lucky. Two hoodlum types from their organization stumbled out on to Mulholland and flagged down a car. Unfortunately for them, it was one of our unmarked patrol cars. At that point those two didn’t seem to mind. They were exhausted and just wanted food and a bed. They were so exhausted that they told all they knew. Then it was easy to pick up Ahmed and the rest of their group. So far Ahmed has refused to talk, but he’ll open up. He is a Pakistani, so we may have to deport him. Even so, the threat to you should be over.”

  Maggie asked, “The two you picked up on Mulholland? What did they look like?”

  Harry described The Ferret and Bruno.

  Maggie said, “Poor Ferret. Poor Bruno.”

  Allie said, “Mother, how can you? They wanted to kill us!”

  Maggie said, “I know. But somehow, the thought of them climbing that mountain makes me feel sorry for them. They were poor specimens.”

  Harry looked at Maggie and shook his head. “Don’t waste your pity on those two. They aren’t worth it.”

  Maggie stared at her teacup and frowned. “But we still don’t know exactly what they wanted from us? And what about Hadi?” Turning to Hadi, she asked, “Why did they kidnap you?”

  All eyes turned to the mysterious little man. Hadi returned their stares with soft brown eyes and shrugged his shoulders. “Ah, that is a mystery, is it not?”

  Harry said, “We’ll know more when Ahmed and the others talk. Believe me, sooner or later, they will. He was silent for a moment and then said, “There’s one thing more. We think these people have a contact here in the United States. That person or persons will be pretty upset by what’s happened. But such a person should be concerned only with lying low or even leaving the country. With this roundup, the backbone of the organization is broken.”

  Andre turned to Harry and John Landis and asked, “Ah, what do you think was their reason for kidnapping Brigitte and me? What did they want from us? Do you know?”

  Harry shook his head, “That’s one of the unanswered questions. Because you’re the expert in terrorism, they probably thought you’d upset their apple cart. How they thought you’d do that we don’t know yet, but I promise you we will.” After a thoughtful silence, Harry said, “We’d prefer that you all stay here until every detail has been cleared up. Certainly that’s the safest thing. But if you feel you must go, we’re pretty sure it’s okay.”

  Brigitte turned to Andre and murmured a question that Andre answered in French. Then, turning to Harry, Andre said, “We’d like to stay for at least one more day, if we may. Brigitte still is exhausted both physically and emotionally. We need a resting time.”

  Harry nodded his assent then looked at the others and raised his eyebrows questioningly.

  Maggie’s eyes met Allie’s briefly. Their agreement was instant and silent. To Harry Allie said, “We’ll leave soon. It’s time we returned to our real lives. But what about the dog? He must belong to someone. What will become of him?”

  “Well, I guess we’ll call the Humane Society.” Then, at Allie’s shocked expression, “Or you could take him while we make inquiries. I’ll let you know what we find out.”

  Relief filled Allie’s face, “I didn’t realize how attached I’ve become. But I want whatever’s best for him.” Then, “Oh, I just remembered that my car must still be in front of the condos. I hope it hasn’t been towed away.”

  Harry smiled at her, “We took the liberty of making a spare key and moving it. Actually, it’s sitting in the driveway outside right now.” The looks on Maggie and Allie’s faces at this were reward enough for the hassle he’d had getting the key made and moving the car.

  A small silence followed as they assimilated the new turn of events. Their eyes were lowered, almost as if they were afraid to make contact. At last Hadi looked at his fellow refugees and said, “Ah, now, indeed, it is time for us to part.” He looked at Maggie fondly, “Yes, dear lady, you were correct. Now that our parting is near, the heart falters, no? It is important for us to remember and to know that we remain family, even when we are apart, yes!”

  The others looked at him and at one another, their faces mirroring their feelings of relief, hope, sadness and affection. At last Andre spoke, “It is true. We are family. I feel it. I know it. I will hold each of you in my heart. I will and so will Brigitte. Forever.” He bowed his head and blinked his eyes for a moment.

  Then, almost without conscious thought or movement, they were on their feet, hugging one another, laughing and crying at the same time.

  Maggie found herself facing Hadi. She could not find words to say what she felt, to express her gratitude, to ask the unanswered questions. Hadi stood very still and looked into Maggie’s eyes without blinking, his liquid dark eyes filled with love and acceptance. In a quiet sing-song voice he said, “Yes, dear lady. We will meet again. Yes. It is so. Do not distress yourself. Do not concern yourself with the unknowable. It is good, no?”

  Maggie gazed back at him through a film of unshed tears and nodded.

  Then Hadi turned and walked away, mysterious to the end.

  Maggie stood motionless for a long time. Her reverie was interrupted by, “A penny for . . ..” She turned to find Harry Cavanaugh at her side.

  Maggie smiled shakily and said, “Oh, Harry. How can we thank you for all you’ve done for us?”

  “I only did my job, Maggie. I’m glad it turned out okay. I’m especially glad you and the others are safe. There were some anxious hours when we didn’t know where you were or even if . . .” Harry’s voice trailed off as he looked down into Maggie’s green eyes.

  As Maggie returned his look she wondered if Harry could have more than a professional interest in her. But that was just silly. She smiled up at him and said, “Yes, those were anxious times for us. But you know, they were exciting times, too. It really was quite an adventure.” After a pause, “Well, now we go back to our ordinary lives. But what about you, Harry? What happens next for you? Do you go on to another adventure?”

  Harry answered, “Most of the time my work’s not very exciting, lots of routine, lots of waiting. You know, not too glamorous.” There was a short awkward silence, then Harry continued, “Maggie, when you and Allie . . . er, that is, after you two have rested . . . I mean, I’d like to check in on you or, that is, maybe we could have dinner or something.” He finished the last in a rush, and then looked embarrassed.

  Maggie smiled broadly and answered, “Why, Harry, that sounds just wonderful. I’d love to have dinner with you. Give me a call and we’ll set it up.”

  “Oh, good. I mean, yes, I will,” Harry answered quickly.

  Just then Allie walked up and put out her hand to Harry. “Harry, I want to thank you for everything you’ve done for us. It was a comfort during our ordeals knowing you were out there somewhere at the other end of the phone. Thank you.”

  Harry shook her hand vigorously and said, “You’re welcome. But it was my job, you know.” He glanced quickly at Maggie and loo
ked back to Allie. “I’m glad it turned out okay and you’re both safe.”

  The good-byes continued with hugs, tears, exchanges of addresses and phone numbers. Finally, Maggie and Allie returned to their rooms, followed by Dog, and found their own clothes, freshly laundered and lying on the beds. Quickly, they changed and went back down the stairs.

  The white convertible was standing in the bricked drive behind the house. They climbed in and Dog seated himself on Maggie’s lap. Maggie scratched behind his ears and laughed. Allie reached behind the seats and handed Maggie her hat. They donned their hats solemnly, looked at each other and broke out laughing. Allie turned the car and with light hearts they started down the drive. Turning, Maggie saw Harry in the doorway. She nudged Allie and they both waved.

  Harry waved back, smiling and looking a little forlorn.

  “Does he look like an abandoned puppy or what?” Allie asked.

  “Yeah, he does sort of, doesn’t he? Maggie said nonchalantly.

  Allie looked at her mother and raised her eyebrows.

  “I don’t know, Honey. He did ask me out for dinner. He’s a nice man, but I don’t know . . .” Maggie’s voice trailed off. She shrugged her shoulders in answer to Allie’s look.

  “Mom! Dinner! All right, Mom! Go for it!” was Allie’s irreverent reply.

  They giggled and then sighed with contentment. It felt luxurious to be driving, to be free and to feel safe. They wandered down along winding palm lined streets. The sun was warm on their faces and the gusty breezes were warm at their backs.

  After a silence, Maggie spoke, “It’s hard to believe that it all happened, isn’t it?”

  “Yes. It is. It’ll probably take us a while to integrate it all. Right now, it feels unreal, like a dream,” Allie answered.

  At the sound of Allie’s voice, Dog wiggled and tried to wag his tail. “Allie, what’re you going to do about this dog?” Maggie asked.

  “Well, Mom, Harry is going to investigate to see if he has an owner somewhere. I think we should do the same. But he definitely thinks he’s my dog. You must admit that!” Allie said laughing.

  “There can be no doubt of that,” Maggie laughed in return.

  “First of all, I suppose he should have a name. Help me think of one. Things’ve been moving so fast I haven’t had a chance to think about him.”

  The next several minutes were spent brainstorming names. ‘Jack’ was an obvious and popular suggestion. “He really was like a guardian angel. Did you see how he came barreling down on us when that car was coming in the cemetery?” Maggie asked as she rubbed behind his ears.

  “Guardian angel. You’re right. Do you think it would be sacrilegious if we called him Gabriel?” Allie glanced at the dog and her mother. Dog’s ears pricked up and his little behind wiggled.

  “I think Gabriel is perfect.” Maggie replied.

  “Gabriel.” Allie said looking at the dog. “Gabe for short. I think that’s it. It fits,” she said with a grin. “Okay, Gabe. I guess you’ve found a new home and a new name!”

  Allie turned the car onto a freeway and they headed west toward Malibu and home. As they neared the ocean there was a haze in the air, but Maggie and Allie were so happy to be going home that they barely noticed. The turn off the PCH came up quickly and once again they wound up the switchbacks toward Allie’s house. Maggie thought that the neighborhood never had looked so beautiful. Bougainvillea spilled over walls and off porticos, palm tree swayed in the breeze, the sun glinted off their shiny fronds.

  Gabe bounced out of the car as soon as it came to a halt in the carport. His demeanor said, ‘It’s sure good to be home!’ Maggie and Allie followed more slowly. Allie’s house seemed happy to have them back. Maggie thought the house couldn’t be as happy as she was to be here. Wordlessly they wandered upstairs and down, following Gabe’s inspection and examining each nook and cranny. “It feels okay, clean. I mean, it feels like my house again,” Allie said.

  Among the messages on the answering machine, Harry Cavanaugh’s gruff voice welcoming them home and assuring them that all devices had been removed from the house. Allie and Maggie looked at one another and sighed a silent thank you in unison.

  The deck beckoned. Soon they were lounging there with cool drinks staring up through the leafy canopy at the blue sky. In the distance the Pacific glowed, a brilliant blue-green. “Sure is warm today,” Allie murmured.

  “Sure is. Makes a person want to do nothing,” was Maggie’s reply.

  “I need to get to work soon. Phone calls and stuff,” Allie said. “But I seem to have lost my ambition.”

  “I don’t suppose it could be that you are recovering from trauma and exhaustion,” Maggie commented.

  “You’re right, Allie said. “That stuff can wait until tomorrow. Let’s just lie back and unwind now.”

  “Suits me.” After a long pause, Maggie said, “Allie, what about Max? What was going on with the two of you? Wasn’t that an amazing coincidence? Did he remember you from the beach? Are you going to see him again?”

  Allie laughed, “Oh, Mom! What about him? I don’t know. Yes. No. I don’t know.”

  Maggie made a face in response.

  Allie said, “I really don’t know what’s going on. He’s an attractive man and a most annoying one at times. It was quite a coincidence. And no. He didn’t remember me from the beach, that is, he was remembering me, but he couldn’t remember where or when. I gave him my number, but who knows when or if he’ll do anything with it.” Allie sighed ruefully.

  Maggie smiled to herself and said, “I’ll be surprised if that phone doesn’t start ringing very soon. I saw the look in his eyes when he looked at you.”

  “Well, we’ll see, I guess.” Allie sat quietly for a while. “Are you hungry? It’s well past lunch time.”

  “Now that you mention it, I’m starved. Let’s see what’s in the larder.” Maggie stretched, climbed out of the chaise, and headed for the kitchen.

  Following her Allie said, “I’m not sure what there is. We may have to go out.” A soft bark interrupted her. “Oh, my. I just realized I don’t have any dog food. We’ll have to go out for that at some point. I really should pick up my mail.”

  Maggie said, “I have a truly decadent idea. Let’s hit Brandon’s for a snack and run whatever errands are essential. Then let’s pick up a movie, French pastries at the bakery and a Thai feast.”

  “Decadent is right! Chocolate!! Let’s do it!”

  Gabe was insistent that he go with them. Allie fashioned a makeshift collar and leash from her trunk of horse tack in the carport. Down through the now hazy neighborhood.

  Brandon’s was bright, cheerful and filled with delicious aromas. Outside Allie tied Gabe to a bicycle rack where he lay down in the shade and sighed. Being in civilization felt strange to Maggie. The meal had a funny sort of deja vu quality. She was sure that Allie was feeling it, too. Their last breakfast here seemed long ago, almost as if it had happened in a dream. Would she ever get over this feeling?

  “Feels weird, uh?” Allie commented. “Almost as if being here before was a dream, or our adventure was a dream, or now is a dream, or something. It’s surreal.”

  Maggie thought ‘surreal’ summed it up nicely.

  From Brandon’s they walked to the video shop. Choosing a movie took a long time. Finally they settled on two, a romance and a comedy. Adventure films had little appeal.

  Gabe stood with his nose into the wind as he and Maggie waited outside while Allie collected her mail. Then, at the market, in addition to dog food and a few things for their kitchen, they purchased a bright red collar and leash. Outside they presented Gabe with his new ‘clothes.’ He trotted back to the car proudly, showing off his finery.

  At the bakery, they bought one of every chocolate pastry offered. On to the Thai restaurant. There they ordered lemon grass coconut soup, curry, noodles, rice, and salad. Up through the neighborhood. A strong wind was tossing the tops of the palm trees. “Mom, d’you think we went a
little overboard?”

  “Probably. But we’re allowed. We deserve it,” Maggie answered.

  “That’s for sure.”

  It was nearly dark as they climbed up the switchbacks. The sun was setting in a strange red glow. Maggie wrinkled her nose. “It seems strange that someone would be using their fireplace on such a warm day.” Gabe barked his agreement and they laughed.

  As they entered the house, they dropped their purses and keys on Maggie’s grandmother’s sideboard in the hall and went straight to the kitchen where they unloaded their provender. The evening progressed as decadently as they had planned. Satiated on Thai food, they sipped tea and nibbled on the pastries through the first movie. Watching the credits roll down the screen, Maggie stood up, stretched and yawned, “I hate to admit it, but my eyes aren’t going to make it through another movie. It’s bed for me.”

  Allie yawned her agreement. Together they stuck the pastries in the refrigerator, tossed empty cartons in the garbage pail and pulled out Maggie’s bed.

  Maggie lay down, feeling her body relax and melt into the bed. She was asleep almost before Allie made it to the top of the stairs. Allie followed her mother’s example. Gabe circled twice, then lay down, nestled at the foot of her bed and peace descended.

  Maggie backed down the dark hallway away from something frightening and dreadful at its head. If only she could see what was up there, she could defend herself. But the unknown, whatever it was, was so evil, so terrifying, that she could not approach it and it remained a mystery. Slowly she inched backward, unable to run, unable to turn her back on the fearful something. As she backed down the hall she heard a whispering voice, “Dear lady, dear lady, please be careful. Please be careful. You must leave. You must leave now.”

  Hadi! It was Hadi. But where? Where is he? Maggie looked around. Nothing. All was in darkness. She called out, “Hadi? Hadi? Where are you?”

  Maggie flopped over in bed and sat bolt upright, her eyes squeezed shut. It was too scary to open them. She shuddered as she realized that she had been dreaming. Slowly she opened her eyes. Darkness. The lighter rectangle of the window above her showed a wild night, with trees bending in the wind. Maggie sighed and leaned back against the pillows. Her breathing quieted.