Casanova Killer, An SSCD Crime Thriller

by Tallulah Grace

  “Agreed.” Ethan said smoothly, ignoring the daggers Dylan aimed his way.

  “Ethan Bennett, Duke of Davenborrough, and his companion, Jerry Smythe, enjoyed a delightful dinner at Quincette, a local favorite. The Duke and Ms. Smythe are visiting San Francisco on an extended working holiday.” Jerry read. “At least they got our cover names right.”

  “It’s good coverage. If our guy reads the society section, he can’t help but be intrigued.” Dylan added.

  “Let’s hope. What’s on my agenda today? Besides yoga.” Jerry snagged a muffin and bit in.

  “Jimmy put together a list of places frequented by all three victims in the last month. Aside from your favorite yoga class, there’s a café around the corner, a juice bar two blocks over, and a Pilates studio downtown that might be helpful. You can drop by the juice bar on your way to Pilates, then stop by the café on the way home.”

  “I’m taking Pilates and yoga today?” Jerry dropped her muffin. “I thought the point was to keep me alive so Casanova can take his shot. If I keep this up, I’ll be dead in a week.” She complained.

  “Suck it up, Forbes. You can do this in your sleep.” Dylan wanted to laugh at Jerry’s expression, but didn’t risk it. “Just think of how good your body will look, after a few days of torture.”

  “You really are annoying,” she tossed back. “What else is going on today? I assume that we’re going out again tonight?”

  “Of course. See and be seen, doncha know.” Dylan grinned in anticipation of dropping his next bomb. “Tonight, you’re going to the opera. You have tickets to La Traviata, the heart-wrenching tale of a fallen woman’s sacrifice for the love of her life. Or so I’m told.”

  “Oh, man,” Jerry dropped her head on her arms. “This day just keeps getting better. Why don’t you go spread sunshine somewhere else?” She peeked up at Dylan.

  Ethan and Dylan both laughed, but Ethan spoke. “I take it the opera is not your cup of tea?”

  “No,” Jerry replied instantly. “I mean, I’ve never been, but I can’t imagine that it would be anything but boring.”

  “You Americans and your preconceived notions.” Ethan shook his head. “La Traviata is arguably one of the best-loved operas of all time, and you imagine it to be boring. Opera allows emotions to transcend language. Whether or not you understand the words, if you pay attention to the characters, and the music, you will feel the emotion.” His passionate words surprised Jerry. “I challenge you to give the stage your undivided attention tonight, and then tell me that you were bored.”

  Ethan’s speech left Dylan silent and Jerry impressed.

  “I accept your challenge.”

  Ethan nodded and changed the subject. “Any luck on locating the Maserati?” He asked Dylan.

  “Nothing, yet. We’re running down the registrations, but you’d be amazed at the number of red Maserati’s registered in California. By and large, the owners all fit the broadest part of our unsub’s profile; white male, in his thirties to fifties. We need more to go on.” Dylan broke apart another muffin.

  “Maybe I’ll get lucky today with Kim’s friend, Sonja. I know it’s a longshot, but it could turn into something.” Jerry wrinkled her nose at the muffin tray. “I’m making a real breakfast. God knows, I’ll work it off later today. Who wants pancakes?”

  “So, Slick, what are your plans today?” Dylan asked Ethan, after placing a double order of pancakes with Jerry.

  Ethan chose to ignore the jibe. It appeared that Dylan’s opinion of him hadn’t changed yet.

  “I have appointments at two brokerage firms this morning, both of which are used by the three previous victim’s paramours. This afternoon, I’m joining a gentlemen’s club preferred by two of the men, and then I’m off to the track. See and be seen, right?”

  “Right. Nate and I will continue to interview neighbors and friends of the victims, and of their paramours. Jeez, who talks like that?”

  Ethan simply raised his eyebrows, not deigning to rise to the bait.

  “Anyway, that’s about all we have to go on, until something else happens.”

  “You mean until another woman is murdered.” Ethan’s voice was low and slightly menacing.

  Dylan took offense. “Hey buddy, if you have any better ideas, I’d like to hear ‘em.”

  “Sorry, I know you all are doing what you can. It makes my blood boil, thinking of him getting by with these murders, right under our collective noses.”

  “I know what you mean.” For the first time, Dylan felt a kinship with Ethan. He didn’t want it to take root. Standing, he called to Jerry. “Hey Princess, you need any help in there?” He moved to join her, without waiting for a reply.

  ~~~

  Jerry plastered a smile on her face as she walked into the yoga class. The very last thing her body needed was to be bent like a pretzel for an hour. Spotting Kim standing alone, intent on her cell phone, Jerry made her way over to her.

  “Hi, Kim,” she greeted the other woman warmly. “It’s nice to see you again.”

  Kim appeared distracted as she glanced up at Jerry. “Oh, hi, Jerry. It’s nice to see you, too.” She shut off her phone and placed it in her bag. “Hey, I saw your picture in the paper this morning, va va va voom!” She grinned. “If you get tired of the Duke, let me know, and I’ll take him off of your hands. He’s gorgeous!”

  Jerry actually blushed. “He’s a keeper, but thanks for the offer.”

  “Anytime.” Kim began stretching.

  “Is your friend Sonja here? I really wanted to speak with her about a recommendation for a hair stylist.” Jerry began stretching as well, ignoring her body’s silent protests.

  “She’s not here, yet, but I hope she makes it. I’m a little worried. She was supposed to call me this morning, but I haven’t heard from her. My calls to her go straight to voice mail.” Kim shrugged. “Maybe she got tied up with her new friend. If she doesn’t show up for class, I’ll stop by her place.”

  “I’m sure she’s fine.” Jerry lied. Every warning bell she had was going off in her head. “Breaking in a new friend can be time consuming.” She winked.

  “It’s not really like that. I mean, she has a friend, but she thinks this guy could be the real deal.” Kim frowned. “I’m sorry, she asked me not to talk about it.”

  “Sure, sure. No worries. My lips are sealed.” Jerry smiled and unrolled her yoga mat.

  ~~~

  Class was as excruciating as she’d thought it would be, but Jerry pushed through. She didn’t want to jump the gun, but her instincts told her that Sonja would not show up in class that day, or any other day. She approached Kim again as they were leaving.

  “Still no luck getting Sonja to answer?” Jerry asked, as Kim frowned into her phone.

  “No. She rarely misses yoga, especially not two days in a row. I’m going over there.”

  “If you’re worried, I could join you. My driver’s right outside.” Jerry offered hopefully.

  “I hate to put you out,” Kim hedged. “She’s probably just holed up with him, and I’m being ridiculous.”

  “You’re not putting me out at all. If she’s really in trouble, you’ll need someone there with you. If everything’s fine, then I can drop you back here, or anywhere you’d like to go.” Jerry smiled warmly. “I have an hour before my dress fitting, so you’d be helping me fill the time.”

  “If you’re sure,” Kim suddenly looked eager for Jerry to join her.

  “I’m sure. Let’s grab a juice to go. I’ll text Ronald to pull the car around.” Jerry sent two texts, one to Ronald, and one to Dylan. By the time they were riding towards Sonja’s home, Dylan was already en route as well, following the GPS signal on her phone. Jerry’s text was brief, but the message was enough to make him drop everything and go. He’d worked with her long enough to have full faith in Jerry’s instincts.

  Sonja’s apartment comprised the top floor of a restored Victorian, less than three miles from the yoga studio. With stop and sta
rt traffic, it took them fifteen minutes to arrive.

  “What a lovely home,” Jerry remarked, as they glided to a stop across the street from the painted lady. “Do you see her car?” Two cars were parked on the street, directly in front of the old home.

  “Yes,” Kim sighed with relief. That’s it, there.” She pointed to a late model BMW, parked in the narrow driveway. “Sonya has the top floor apartment, and assigned parking.” Kim waited for traffic to pass before opening her door. “I’ll just be a moment.”

  “I’ll come to the door with you, just in case.” Jerry followed her out of the car.

  Climbing to the third floor of Sonja’s home gave Jerry’s legs a workout they didn’t need. Her adrenaline was pumping so that she hardly noticed the pain.

  The top floor landing was lit with the colors of an oversized stain glass window that appeared to be original to the house. A small table with a Tiffany lamp stood outside the apartment door.

  Jerry stood to the side as Kim knocked repeatedly, calling Sonja’s name.

  “Do you have a key?” Jerry asked.

  “No.”

  “Call her again, maybe we can hear the phone ring if she’s inside, and can’t answer the door.”

  Kim dialed Sonja’s number while Jerry looked over her shoulder, committing the number to memory. Both women listened intently for any sound inside the apartment.

  “She must still be out with Oscar.” Kim disconnected and turned back towards the stairs.

  “I’m sure that’s it.” Jerry hurriedly agreed. “Does she often disappear like this?” She kept her voice casual. “A friend of mine back in Maine disappears all the time. Says she needs her space.”

  “Not Sonja. I’ve known her for years, she’s as dependable as the sunrise. She’ll probably call later. She knows I’ll worry if I don’t hear from her.” Kim glanced back at Jerry as they walked down the stairs. “We sort of look out for each other.”

  “That’s good. We all need someone.”

  By the time the two women exited the home, Dylan had found a parking spot, one block up. He waited as the town car disappeared from sight before making his way inside.

  He already knew that Sonja Jenkins lived in an apartment owned by Rockstone Promotions, LLC. According to Jimmy, the resident geek in tech support, the BMW was leased by the same company. Following protocol, he took the stairs, two at a time, and knocked on Sonja’s door. After a few minutes, he went to the second floor landing, intending to do an impromptu interview with her neighbors.

  The twenty-something redhead who answered the door was dressed like a bohemian in a long, flowing dress. She gave him a once over, from head to toe, before speaking.

  “Well hello there.” Her southern drawl was unmistakable. “Are you lost?”

  The distinctive aroma, pouring into the hall from her open door, reminded Dylan of his college days. Deciding to play it cool, he relaxed his stance.

  “Why, no, sugar, I’m not lost. I’m looking for Sonja,” he nodded towards the stairs, “have you seen her this morning?” He gave the girl his lopsided grin, the one that always worked for him.

  “Where does she find you guys?” The redhead tossed her head and leaned against the doorjamb. “No, I haven’t seen her since she left yesterday afternoon. He was a looker, too.”

  “Oh, really?” Dylan leaned against the wall, closer to the girl. “Should I be jealous?”

  “I don’t know,” she winked at him. “He looked pretty good.”

  “Mmmm,” Dylan appeared concerned. “I bet my car’s better than his.” He winked back at her.

  “I seriously doubt it. Do you have a red Italian sports car?” She asked, warming to the stranger.

  “No. Mine’s black.” He told her with a smug smile, even as his heart sank. “So, did you ever meet my competition?”

  “No, he always waited in the car for Sonja to come down.”

  “Can you describe him for me, just so I know what I’m up against?” Dylan looked appropriately hopeful.

  “Sure, handsome. He looked tall, at least I think so. It’s hard to tell from my window.” She whispered conspiratorially. Dylan nodded. “He had longish, black, hair, and a thick mustache, which I normally don’t like, but on him, it looked good. Broad shoulders, sort of like yours, and high cheekbones. His face reminded me of Rock Hudson, you know, an actor from ancient movies.”

  “You saw a good bit from your window.” Dylan smiled again. The girl moved closer.

  “Would you like to come in?” She invited. “We could get to know each other while you wait on Sonja.”

  “Thanks, sugar, but I’ll have to pass today. I’m sure I’ll see you again, though.” Dylan straightened and moved away from the door. He was beginning to feel like he had a contact high.

  “Your loss.” She breathed and slowly closed the door.

  Dylan sent a text to Ethan and Nate with the description of the unsub. He also suggested that Nate order a helicopter to scour the surrounding cliffs. He knew in his gut that Sonja was dead.

  “Where’s my damn clairvoyance when I need it?” He mumbled as he walked down to the first floor. Ever since Dylan was a small boy, he’d had visions of events as they happened. Most often, the visions only concerned those closest to him. His grandmother had explained that he had a gift, that he should be grateful that God considered him to be so special. Dylan considered it a curse, and evidence that God either had a sense of humor, or didn’t like him very much. The worst vision to date was of his wife, cheating on him with his best friend. Former wife and former best friend, he clarified to himself.

  “Just once, couldn’t the damn gift help me solve a case?” He whispered as he knocked on the door. No one answered. Pressing his ear against the wood, he heard no evidence of noise, or movement, inside the apartment. Knowing he’d be back later, he dialed Nate as he left the building.

  “Feels like we’ve got another one.” He told him.

  “It definitely does. Wait until you see her DMV photo; she’s a dead ringer for the first victim in London, no pun intended.” Nate’s voice was grim. “Sounds like the neighbor got a decent look at him. Any luck with the occupants on the first floor?”

  “They’re not at home, I’ll come back later. I’m not sure how reliable the girl’s description is, she was pretty stoned when I talked to her, but at least it’s something.” Reaching his car, Dylan paused. “Are you working on a warrant for her apartment? Should I hang here?”

  “Yes, it should be ready in a few. Working with the city government certainly expedites things. I’m on my way there now, so just sit tight.”

  “Will do. Do we have choppers in the air?”

  “Two, though the miles of coastline present a challenge. Would be nice to have a clue to help narrow down the location.”

  “Tell them to look for circling buzzards. I don’t expect we’ll find Sonja alive.” Dylan kicked the tire on his car. It felt good to let off a little frustration.

  “I don’t expect so, either. Maybe we’ll find something in her apartment. I’m almost there.” Nate disconnected.

  Dylan texted Jerry, asking her to call when she was free. His phone rang almost immediately.

  “What did you find?” she asked in greeting.

  “The girl living on the second floor saw Sonja get into a red Italian sports car, yesterday afternoon. She gave us a description, but I’m not sure how accurate it is, she was pretty high when we spoke.”

  “What’s the description?”

  “Tall, longish, black hair, mustache, reminded her of Rock Hudson.”

  “The actor?”

  “You know another Rock Hudson?”

  “Smartass. Ethan didn’t say anything about a mustache, that’s new. It could be fake, or he could have grown it in since Europe. If it’s him, he’s also changed his hair color.”

  “What do you mean, if? Are you having doubts?”

  “No. It’s him. My gut’s telling me that Sonja’s dead.”

&nb
sp; “We agree. Nate’s got two choppers searching the cliffs along the coast. Did Kim tell you anything else that would help us with the search?”

  “No, she never met the guy. All she knows is that he’s young, rich, gorgeous, and calls himself Oscar. He told Sonja to dress for an adventure yesterday, but she didn’t know where he was taking her. I couldn’t really ask a lot of questions without making her suspicious of my cover.”

  “That fits in with everything we already know about him. I’m sure the name’s an alias, but it could be helpful.” Dylan raised is hand as Nate drove by. “Nate’s here with a warrant. We’re going into Sonja’s place. Maybe we’ll get lucky.”

  “Let me know.”

  “Of course. I’ll drop by later and brief you and Ethan.”

  “See you then.”

  Chapter Ten

  “Her place was clean. No mention of Oscar, her date, or anything about him.” Dylan placed a laptop on the dining table. “Hopefully, I can get into this thing and find out something more.”

  “It makes sense that she wouldn’t have anything about Oscar written down at her place. Mustn’t let her current companion know about her side interests.” Jerry dropped into the chair beside Dylan. “Any news on the search?”

  “Nothing yet, and it’ll soon be dark. If they don’t locate her, they’ll pick it up first light.” Dylan began attacking the keys on Sonja’s laptop. “If I were a beautiful young woman, living the high life, what would my password be?”

  “Any pets?” Ethan asked as he entered, his hair still wet from a shower.

  “Nope, and it’s not her birthday, either.” Dylan kept working.

  “Try Namaste, and other yoga terms. According to Kim, she loved that stuff.” Jerry told him and watched as he tried several more times to open the program. “You could overnight it to Jimmy, I’m sure he has ways of getting inside.” Jerry hid her grin.

  Dylan narrowed his eyes at her, as she knew he would. “The day a snot-nosed kid can beat me into a laptop is the day I’ll hang up my hat. Just back off and give me a minute, dammit.”

  While getting under Dylan’s skin was one of her favorite things, Jerry hoped he was right this time. She’d hate for his ego to cost them precious time. “Alright, alright.” She held up her hands. “Shutting up now.”

  “Are you two related?” Ethan asked with a straight face and nearly lost it when they both turned on him, eyes blaring.