No Ordinary Killer
Page 30
“We’re working under the assumption that both Megan and Weaver are still alive. Time is of the essence. Get your ass here as quick as you can.”
“Got ya.”
“Maybe we should have given him more of an explanation than that?”
Cooper flipped the signal light and pulled alongside the pump. “He’ll know everything soon enough. I need time to adjust.” He stepped out of the Jeep and slammed the door. Collins Paul Reynolds. A brother. He knew nothing … didn’t suspect a thing … in his own house. Neither of his parents said a word? How the hell do things like that happen? Absently, Cooper watched the gallons spin around while he wrestled with his thoughts.
What would he say to Collins if he could? I’m sorry. I wish I had been there for you. I wish you felt you could have come to me. We could have worked this out together. Instead, if Collins was alive, he’d have to say … You have the right to remain silent. It was fucked up.
CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO
Collins Paul Reynolds laid to rest to the right of Alice Lynn Cooper and Elton Paul Reynolds, his parents. Cooper didn’t think he and Candy would ever get over the truth. He placed a red rose on top the gravestone and waited for Candy to place hers. He took her hand in his and stood looking at his name.
“I wish he had turned to me,” Cooper choked out the words. “I wanted to talk to him and tell him I’m sorry.” He swallowed hard.
“Me, too. It wasn’t our fault and you know it. If anyone is to blame, it’s mom and dad. As much as I loved them, this is something I will always be angry with them about. I know mom wanted Aunt Linda to have a child, but how could she break us up?”
Cooper wiped his eyes with the back of his sleeve. “How could Aunt Linda not know what Weaver was doing to Collins? Why didn’t she protect him? The whole thing is messed up.”
“It will take time for us to begin to understand. I don’t think we ever will. I’ve been meaning to thank you and Dallas for helping with Molly and Miles. We couldn’t do it without you. I still can’t believe you sensed the twins were being born.”
“It was the worse pain across my stomach I’d ever experienced. I remember telling Dallas I was certain you were bringing the twins into the world at two AM on Saturday morning. She really didn’t believe me. Actually, I wasn’t so sure myself, but I wanted to show-off for Dallas. I just prayed we lived long enough to see them.”
“Glad I could be of help. Was she impressed?”
“She’s living with me, isn’t she? Oh, did I tell you we are all going to Texas for Thanksgiving? Sounds like her father can’t wait to meet his grandchildren.”
“That’s wonderful news. Don’t you dare go making plans for Christmas anywhere but together.”
“I’ll be sure to let Dallas know. Is Dennis still behaving? You would tell me if you suspect anything is going south, right?”
“Yes, he’s great with the twins. He comes home every night and is so attentive. This is the last—“
“Don’t go there. Give it one hundred percent and if it fails, you know you did your best. I don’t know if I could have given him that chance. So he’s one lucky man. I know he was coerced into going to Megan’s suite that day, but I’m not convinced he … you know what … it doesn’t matter. Because you have given him this opportunity to be the man he should be for you and the kids … and I’m … Dallas and I are behind you one-hundred percent. The past is the past.” Cooper pulled her into him.
“What would you have done if the paternity test proved you weren’t Tina and Tucker’s real father?”
“It wouldn’t have mattered because no matter what the tests said, I am their real father. I love them. I’m humbled they are mine in every sense of the word. Dallas is such a good mother … she’s strong and opinionated … but we make it work.” He laughed and pulled his sister close.
“I’m so angry with Megan and even though I didn’t wish her to die, she truly got what she deserved. I’m sorry I said that.”
“Don’t be. I’ve thought the same thing. I’m putting the proceeds from the book sales from Malicious Intent in a trust fund for Tina and Tucker and Molly and Miles.”
“You don’t have to do that.”
“Believe me, there’s plenty there and Dallas and I didn’t want the trusts to be so large that the money would change them. There is enough to pay for college and a simple start on life. We decided we’re also setting up a Collins Paul Memorial for sexually abused children with the proceeds from Physical Evidence.”
“Cooper, that’s a lovely idea. I really think Collins would be happy and proud about that. I’m very proud of you, too, Cooper. I’ll bet Collins is smiling down at us this very moment.”
“I know he is … I can feel him.”
THE END
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Multi-published author Rita Karnopp knew at a very young age she wanted to be a writer – and penned her first story at age sixteen. She is drawn to the history of the Native American and strives to bring alive the authenticity of a time past. Whether writing suspense, Indian historicals, or contemporary romance, Rita enjoys bringing excitement and the enduring power of love to her stories.
Rita currently resides in Montana with her husband and their loveable Cockapoo named Gema. When she isn’t reading, writing or doing research, Rita enjoys making dream catchers, gold panning, crystal or sapphire digging, rafting, fishing, canoeing, and spending time with her children and grandchildren.
Also find Rita at:
Website: http://ritakarnopp.com
Facebook: rita.karnopp@facebook.com
ritakarnopp13@yahoo.com
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