Maui Murders

by Kathy Callahan

  “When do you think the bodies will be released to Kim? You know he lives in Washington, DC, and is on staff at Georgetown Hospital. I don’t how know long he will be able to stay on the island.”

  “I’ll speak with the county sheriff. The lab has tissue and blood samples, and as far as I’m concerned, I could release the bodies as early as tomorrow.”

  “I’ll run that by him. We’re going there next. Thank you for the information and your help.”

  The sheriff left the lab area and went out to where Kyle and Kim were sitting. Kim looked a little less shocked but still under a cloud of sadness that the sheriff knew would not lift for some time. “Gentlemen, we have an appointment in forty-five minutes with the county sheriff, and I thought we might stop and get a cup of coffee first. We could use some before the next meeting.”

  The three men left the county coroner’s and walked a half block to a café and had coffee. The sheriff filled them both in on the information he learned, including the possible release of the bodies as early as tomorrow.

  “I didn’t learn too much from the coroner. However, he did speculate that your parents had been Tasered, prior to the actual murder because of marks he found on each of their necks. I realize this is harsh, but what I wanted you to take from this information is that it’s likely they felt no pain.”

  “Thank you, Sheriff. It would make it easier for me to know that Mom and Dad did not feel the horrible death that was happening to them.”

  After coffee, they walked to the county sheriff’s office. He filled them in on the latest information and speculation. As originally thought, someone or more persons were high on dope, went into the market, and committed the brutal murders as a thrill kill. Because of the storm, there were no clues, sightings, or any evidence except what the coroner believed were Taser marks on Mr. and Mrs. Okamoto’s neck. This in itself was the only thing that made the thrill kill theory off base, as dopers would not likely have a Taser gun, but the theories were just that because of the lack of evidence. Tests, canvassing, questioning, etc., was still being done, but so far, there was nothing to report.

  Kim asked about the release of the bodies, and the county sheriff said he had just gotten off the phone with the coroner, and he was fine with the release tomorrow. Kim expressed his gratefulness and thanked the county sheriff for his assistance; he also asked that he be kept informed if any new information surfaced. He left his cell phone number and his Washington, DC, address. Silently, all three headed to the sheriff’s vehicle.

  Driving back to Paia, the sheriff spoke with Kim about an idea he had regarding the services and the market.

  “Kim, you know Donald Munson, right? He has contacts throughout the islands and he is a ‘get things done’ type of guy. Here’s my idea. Let him handle getting your folks back to Paia. Let him take care of the services, and he will do this with the highest respect for you and your family. He can arrange to have people come in and clean up the market area, and I don’t imagine you want to keep the market running. He can arrange to dispose of the nonperishables, and the perishables that are still good, he can give to one of the island’s local shelters. He can have the market cleaned up. It’s now full of fingerprint dust. He will hire all the help needed to do a good and swift job. I don’t know what you want to do with the residence area. Perhaps you and Kyle should discuss that, but let Donald help with everything.”

  “Sheriff, thank you. Donald is exactly the person I want and trust to handle the things you outlined. It is our custom to have the dead cremated. I imagine he can arrange with the local agency to do that, and there should be some type of service. I know Donald, his heart is good. I’m not able to make these plans, and I trust him.”

  “I’ll phone him as soon as we get back to the office. You could speak with him at that time if you like.”

  “Yes, I want him to understand the arrangements I envision for my parents and that money is no object. They would want their ashes scattered into the Pacific.” Kim broke down and began to sob once again. No one said any more until they reached the sheriff’s office.

  CHAPTER 14

  Dewey knocked on the back lanai screen door and heard Annie yell, “Come on in, Dewey!”

  He slid the screen open and went to the kitchen where Annie was preparing dinner. He held out the huge bouquet of flowers, saying, “This is for the best hostess in all of Maui.”

  “Dewey, thank you. You shouldn’t have gone to all that expense on my account.”

  George walked into the kitchen, stopping short when he saw the huge mass of flowers. “Dewey, did you bring those? That’s a couple of hundred dollars’ worth of flowers.”

  “It’s one way I could express my appreciation for taking me in during the hurricane. It meant a lot to me, how generous you both were to a wet and stinky windsurfer.”

  “Dewey, you know I’ve always thought you were something other than just a windsurfer, and looking at you now, I’m almost sure of my original estimation,” George said.

  “George, let’s go out front and have a little talk.”

  They walked to the lanai where ocean waves could be seen breaking onto the shore. Annie was getting vases from her breakfront to handle the massive bouquet of flowers. Layla came out to the kitchen and, seeing the huge amount of flowers, lent Annie a hand in arranging them. Annie explained they were a thank-you gift from Dewey.

  “Heavens, he might just as well have bought you the whole flower shop.”

  “George, you were right from the start. I’m a fugitive from the corporate world. I burned out at the ripe old age of thirty. I needed to escape where no one knew me, where I could rest my brain. The death of the Okamotos and knowing I would have to be fingerprinted brought me back to reality. You were right about my engineering references. I just couldn’t control myself. I have a doctorate from MIT in both engineering and computer science. My real name is Dewey McMaster.”

  “I knew it, but I never dreamed you were the Dewey McMaster. You’re famous, a genius, a legend in the computer-gaming world. Who else knows?”

  “Only the sheriff and now you. You can tell Annie but no one else, especially not Layla. I want to get cleaned up more. I’ve contacted my secretary, and she’ll be sending clothes with my jet when it comes over to take me back to Utah. I need a couple of more days to say goodbye to my fellow windsurfers, thank them for accepting me as one of their own and teaching me to be one of the bird people, and attend the funeral.

  “By the way, George, we are doing something different at our studios. We’re working on a new digital process to be used in movies, television, music videos, etc. I’ve got a great crew working on the new programs, and we are very close to finishing the final process. I’m anxious to get back to this aspect of my business.”

  Annie and Layla stepped out onto the lanai.

  “What are you two being so secretive about?” Annie asked.

  “Just guy talk. How’s dinner coming along? I’m starved.”

  “That’s what we came to tell you. Let’s eat!”

  Everyone went back inside, sat at the dining room table, well adorned with flowers, and enjoyed their meal. After dinner, Layla and Annie cleared the table and loaded the dishwasher. Dewey and George went back on the front lanai and discussed windsurfing from the viewpoint of two engineers.

  Annie brought mugs of coffee for everyone; they sat down around the table to watch the orange ball of sun slide into the ocean.

  There was not much conversation, everyone in his or her own thoughts, enjoying the sunset.

  “George, do you and Annie have cable?”

  “Sure, Dewey, why something on you want to see?”

  “In about ten minutes, there’s a movie I would like to watch. The technical work is excellent for its time. I’ve seen the movie. It’s a comedy, so it will be fun.”

  “OK, let’s go watch Dewey’s comedy.” Geor
ge got up and herded the others into the living room. George and Annie sat in stylish recliners, and Dewey and Layla sat on the sofa, each on separate ends. “What is it we are going to be watching?”

  “It’s called G-Force, and it’s part animation, but I think you’ll get a kick out of it.”

  By the middle of the movie, everyone was laughing, Layla was caught up in the fun with the hamsters in the movie. Afterward, Dewey thanked everyone for a great evening, especially Annie for such a wonderful dinner. George accompanied him down the back lanai steps and asked him if he could give him a ride.

  “No, thanks, George. I left my Escalade parked a couple of blocks up. I make sure no one sees me getting out or in. I would hate to blow my cover. The windows are tinted, and no one has caught me yet. Not too much longer hiding, which, in all honesty, was becoming a little old. Thanks again, George. I enjoyed our talk. Take care.”

  Dewey turned and walked up to the main street, his mind on Layla. He recalled her soft laughter as she watched the movie. He wanted to slide over to her, put his arm around her, and hold her tight, but holding an angel can be so difficult.

  George strolled back to the house, closing and locking the lanai door. He turned on the air conditioner, asking Annie and Layla if all other windows and doors were locked securely. No one in Paia was leaving their doors or windows open; everyone was living under air conditioner or fans while they slept.

  Layla turned to George and Annie and said, “I want to thank you both for a great evening, a terrific dinner, and I have to admit I enjoyed the movie.”

  “You’re quite welcome.” George smiled at Layla. “Dewey is like an onion, not just any onion, but a Maui onion. There are many layers but a very sweet core.”

  Both ladies looked at each other, shook their heads, and smiled walking to their respective bedrooms. George followed Annie who had sat down and began removing her makeup. George sat next to her on the bench, and putting his arm around her, he said, “Well, I was right. I knew it. He couldn’t fool me.”

  “George, first your Maui onion speech, now this little tidbit. What’s going on?”

  “Dewey has a doctorate from MIT in engineering and computer science. You might know him by his full name, Dewey McMaster.”

  “That name is familiar. Where do I know it from?”

  “Perhaps when your grandkids visited and you had to pull them away from their McMaster video games. He told me he had a burnout and just dropped out for six months. Now he’s ready to get back to work. How about that onion?” George was beaming at the news he relayed to Annie.

  “Annie, you can’t tell anybody, especially Layla. Dewey said he’s only told the sheriff and us and isn’t ready for Layla to know yet. I told him his secret was safe with us.”

  “Your intuition was right, and my lips are sealed.”

  “Sealing your lips is my job.” George reached around Annie’s waist and drew her into him, kissing her lovingly.

  CHAPTER 15

  Donald Munson was using every resource he had to ensure the Okamotos had the best funeral possible. He was meeting this afternoon with Kim and Kyle to go over the plans. He had pulled the proverbial strings and had the bodies cremated directly instead of the usual wait, as only a few number of bodies were cremated per day, pollution the culprit in this instance.

  Friends from his church had gone to the market and threw out what was old, cleaned the shelves, and took the good perishables to a shelter. A pickup truck full of usable items was taken to the local food bank and donated in the name of Mr. and Mrs. Okamoto. Donald saw to it that a notice was in the local papers, making sure the date and time of the funeral was made public in a half-page article on the contributions the Okamotos had made to Paia. Donald Munson was planning a huge turnout for the funeral, which was one reason he had scheduled it at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday.

  Donald knocked on the door of the Wong rental and was met by Kyle. They introduced themselves; Kyle thanked Donald for his work on Kim’s behalf and motioned Donald to a seat on one of the facing sofas. Kyle sat on the sofa opposite Donald next to Kim.

  “Donald, no words can express my appreciation for what you have done for my parents and for me. I wanted to explain something to you so that you do not think harshly of my decision. When I saw my parents at the county coroner’s, I did not want to see them again in that condition, no matter how much they were made-up. I wanted my last memories of them to be in Oahu the night I received recognition for my work. They were smiling and laughing, so happy and proud. It made my years of hard work and being away from home seem so worthwhile, to see the joy it brought to their faces, and that is how I wanted to remember them.”

  “I applaud your decision. I too believe that the last memories of our loved ones should be when they are alive, not when they have been claimed by death.”

  “Thank you, Donald. I know you are responsible for the wonderful newspaper article. I have several copies which I will cherish always.”

  “Everything I said about them was true. They were loved by many here in Paia. Let me tell you what I have planned for the services. It is open to your approval, and please do not hesitate to make any changes.

  “I have secured the use of the lookout above Ho’okipa Beach Park. There will be windsurfers below, but somehow I think your parents would enjoy that. I found a beautiful portrait they had painted on their fortieth wedding anniversary. I had it blown up, and it will be displayed with the two urns containing your parents’ remains on a table in front. I will host the ceremonies, and if you choose to speak, that would be wonderful. However, I realize that will be difficult. There will be several speakers, and after everyone has spoken, you will be taken directly to a boat that will go out to sea with both urns. You will release the ashes and throw leis in the ocean. Those on shore will be watching this ceremony from high above on the lookout. After that, I have arranged for a buffet to be served on the beach. Upon your return, you can thank folks, shake hands, etc. How is all this sounding?”

  “Donald, it’s masterful. Your plans seem flawless. Yes, I wish to speak at the service, to honor my parents before all those in attendance. I’m not sure it will be the best speech, but it will be from my heart. Thank you, Donald,” Kim said as he rose from the sofa and offered his hand to Donald.

  Donald could see the strain on Kim’s face and took his leave.

  * * *

  Layla joined Annie at the counter after pouring herself a cup of coffee. “Where’s George this morning?”

  “He’s on the beach, enjoying his morning walk or jog or whatever he calls it. He likes the freedom of his thoughts. He says his mind works wonders when he’s out on the sand.”

  “Annie, last night was the best time I’ve had since I came home from the hospital, and I made a decision while I lay in bed. You all are so good to me, and Dewey truly is a gentleman. It made me realize life could get better if I just let it. I must go over and pay my condolences to Kim and have a talk with Kyle. Before I go, however, I’m going to call my booking agent in New York and see if there is any restoration work available. I need to get back to work and back to New York. I still have the family brownstone. All I have to do is move a few things back from Washington and I’m home once more. I think it’s time Kyle and I went our separate ways. We hardly speak, and I believe what once was between us is now lost forever.”

  “I usually don’t agree when someone wants to get a divorce. However, in your case, it’s a wise decision. To stay would only lead you into a deeper depression, and I think you realize things can get better. I hope there is work for you, but even if there isn’t, you should go back to New York. I’m sure you have many friends who would welcome you.”

  “You’re right, Annie, I need to get back to a life of the living. I’ll make my New York call right away. It doesn’t matter though. I’m still going to speak with Kyle, and I’m going back to New York.”

 
With purpose, Layla made the journey to the Wong rental. She found Kyle sitting in a lounge chair, his eyes closed. “Kyle, I’ve come to see Kim.”

  “Layla, I’ve been meaning to come over and see you. Things have been so hectic around here. I’m sorry. I should have made more of an effort.”

  “Don’t worry. Annie and George have been looking after me. Do you think it is OK if I see Kim?”

  “I’m sure he would welcome your visit. He’s working on what he wants to say at the memorial, which will be Saturday at 10:00 a.m., all the details are in the paper. Of course, you, George, and Annie will attend.”

  “Certainly, we’ll attend,” Layla said forcefully as she opened the screen door and walked into the living room. “Kim, I’ve been wanting to come over and pay my respects and tell you how sorry I am at the loss of your parents. I enjoyed that evening with your mom. She was a very sweet lady. I’m sorry I didn’t get the opportunity to visit with her more and to get to know your father. Please accept my heartfelt sympathy.”

  Kim got up and hugged Layla, saying, “Now I understand profound loss much better, and I somewhat know what you must have gone through when you lost your baby. Forgive me, Layla, for not showing more kindness toward you. I simply did not understand.”

  “Thank you. I’m sorry you had to lose both your parents in such a horrible manner.”

  They talked for almost thirty minutes, then Layla decided Kim was looking weary and told him she would be attending the memorial with the Boones and left. Outside, she asked Kyle to walk her halfway back to the Boone home.

  “Kyle, earlier today, I phoned my booking agent in New York to see if he had any restoration work available. He had just received a commission to restore the entrance to a three-story art deco vestibule that had been damaged by smoke. I agreed to take on the assignment. After the memorial, I’m flying back to Washington, packing up my things, and returning to New York. I’m smart enough to know our marriage is over. I don’t blame myself anymore or you for that matter. I hope you won’t object to any of my decisions.”