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ElizabethCook Howard
Category:
Women
Publisher: Elizabeth Cook-Howard
ISBN-10: 0615824838
Type: Fiction
Pages: 299
Copyright: June 24, 2013
ISBN-13: 9780615824833
Price: $0.99 (eBook)
Authentic, emotional, romantic read filled with betrayal, suspense and murder. Not intended for the weak hearted. When not seeking true live found?
Betrayal,Murder, Suspense and thats only the first few chapters. If you can stomach a hard emotional read, then this is the book for you. Set within the boroughs of New York City, 12 year veteran of the NYPD, Detective Kevin Walker is faced with the daunting task of solving the murder of a mother and her six year old daughter. Investigating as he has many times before, Detective Walker finds this particular case more disheartening to solve compared to all past cases he has investigated.
Beth Morris, a Domestic Violence Case Worker for the past seven years finds herself in a place of loss once again. Two of the most important people in her life are brutally murdered. The two same people who helped her understand what unconditional love is, how to give love and more importantly how to accept being loved. Their murder, their loss unearths Beth’s past filled with abuse, rejection and a wish for death.
Meeting Detective Walker when her life was crumbling, Beth found refuge in his need to protect. Initially assuming his protectiveness was routine, Beth realizes he too has a past filled with tragedy and the lack of maternal love. Kevin and Beth are two souls drawn together assumed by murder but realistically by love loss and painful pasts.
Excerpt
You can do this, you can. Oh heavenly father help me through this. Get out the car… Stay strong, get out the car… If I stand right now my legs will buckle. Oh God please get me through this... I beg you.
I make my way into the church, so many people. I'll just take a seat here in the back.
Good Morning, an usher greets me
Good Morning
Are you a family member?
No ahem friend of the family. Excuse me. I immediately take a seat in the last row. The church is practically full. I will stay here, in the back. No need to go to the front. Right here is just fine.
Would everyone please stand for prayer!
The minister begins. I hear his words but all I can do is plead internally. Heavenly father please, please help me get through this.
Please remain standing
As the family comes in I remind myself to stay strong. I close my eyes, my legs are shaking. Please help me through this. While silently asking God for help, for strength I hear someone calling my name, then a tap on the shoulder.
Mrs. Morris, Beth...
I turn to face Jasmine
Beth, please sit with me? Please!
Hi Jasmine in a whisper I don’t want to take room from your family, I don’t want to impose I can’t bare to sit so close.
Please Beth I know Rosa and Rosie would want this. Suddenly Jasmine’s voice cracks and tears begin to form… Beth you are family to Rosa, she would never forgive me if…
Interrupting Jasmine I would be honored and before I could complete my thought I am whisked into the processional alongside Jasmine.
Walking, Jasmine whispers I tried to call you a few times. It would really mean a lot if you could say a few words.
Jasmine I didn't come prepared.
I know this is short notice but for Rosa, please!
Trying to find the words to say no, I'm guided to the first row of pews, just in front of the two caskets. I keep reminding myself not to look up, to keep my head down. In the midst of my denial, Jasmine taps me on the shoulder once more and whispers This was found in the apartment, the police dropped it off yesterday. It is written out to you.
I examine the envelope - To: Beth Morris. Under, a small traced hand with Rosie's name written in. Overwhelmed I put the envelope in my purse. I resume my avoidance and was able to not acknowledge what is blatantly right in front of me for at least fifteen minutes until…
Next we have a friend of the family to say a few words, Beth Morris.
I stand and try to plan a route around each casket. If I glance at either I will not be able to get through this. I take the longest route to the pulpit, up and around the choir. I know everyone is wondering what I am doing but I don’t care.
Finally arriving to the appropriate standing place, I lower my head and close my eyes. Unaware of my loud thoughts I begin to pray. Heavenly father so many times I have called on you. Many times answered other times I felt I was being tested but this time father please get me through this. For Rosa and Rosie please! Daddy, my guardian angel I beg you to give me strength, I beg you.
I lift my head, open my eyes and wipe the tears that manage to escape. Behind me I feel a pat on my shoulder, it is the pastor. He hands me a few tissues and whispers in my ear “Our heavenly father heard your prayer. You have the strength to get through this”. Then loudly says Amen Church. Any other time I would find some type of humor in this but this time, this moment I only feel pain and sorrow.
I've had the honor to know Rosa and Rosie. keep your head down.... come on… Anyone who knew Rosa will agree that stubborn and determined are two words that best describes her. That is right someone yells, others nodding in agreement and a few chuckles. Stubborn in the sense that whatever the situation, it would be done her way or no way at all. Determined, well whatever she set her mind to, regardless how far fetch it was, whatever the idea Rosa was going to make it happen. And if any decision was going to be made regarding her baby girl my voice cracks be ready for the storm because only she would be making that decision. But let me be clear, it wouldn't be a spur of the moment decision. It would be a well thought out - I’ve done my research and you better have your written proof of how it can be done better on hand. Smiling First hand, I've been on the receiving end of that storm and let me tell you, not a pretty scene. But just like Mother Nature, when the storm passes and the sun once again shines Rosa embraces you with open arms. I will miss I begin to weep, stay strong, don't look across. Do not look right in front of you I will miss my daily call from Rosa. Whether she was giving me updates or just calling to see how I was doing my voice strained by my held back tears I will miss my colored pages, drawings made for me. I will miss two very special people who have ahem who has shown me obstacles in life are what you make them. If not acknowledge as an obstacle but rather a goal to conquer you will be living life. Thank you.
Walking back to my seat the choir begins to sing We've Only Just Begun. I force myself to face what I tried to avoid since arriving. I walk to each open casket. Rosa, ever so beautiful I touch her hair, I rub her hand. I will miss you. And my Little Rosie, dressed in her white party graduation dress. On her wrist the bracelet I had given her. I bend and kiss my little Rosie. I whisper to her You gave me life, you made me want to live. Unable to control my emotions any longer I walk back to the pew pick up my purse and exit the building. I can no longer avoid and can no longer suppress my emotions, I’m about to explode.
Walking as fast as I can without running, I make it to the top stair outside the church. I find a corner and begin my weeping cry. I begin to question God, questioning how and why he would take either of them but especially a baby who hasn't even begun to live. I question why once again he took someone from me, Just why. Pulling myself together I head for my car. Walking I hear voices. I hear someone confirming who I am, I hear someone questioning why the bitch is at his daughter's funeral. Quicker than my legs would allow I turn on my heel, walk right to Hector's face and dared him to call me a bitch again. Ha! The calm occurred in the church and the storm was about to hit land as a category five hurricane.
Excuse me? Excuse me?
You best back down
Are you fucking talking to me? Hello..?
Listen I advise you to get your stuck-up ass from my face or you will be picking yourself up off the ground.
No this little fuck didn't I wouldn't expect anything different from a woman beater or beg my pardon, a pregnant woman beater. So before you go around calling women bitches so freely maybe just maybe you should pay a visit to your own mother because any woman that carried and delivered your bastard ass must be the biggest bitch of all.
As the last words come out my mouth, in slow motion I see an arm raised. On the end of that arm a hand that comes into direct contact with my left cheek, the force so hard I fall to the ground. As I begin to pick myself up, I see a large foot heading in my direction. I brace myself for the blow but instead I hear a familiar voice.
“I don’t think you want to do that”.
Detective Walker extends a hand to help me up. In his other hand his gun is drawn and pointed directly at Hector. Are you ok?
I'm fine.
He takes out his cell phone. This is Detective Walker I'm at Christ Deliverance Church between Pitkin and Mother Gaston Boulevard. Send a car… Assault. Detective Walker turns to Hector. Turn around and put your hands behind your head.
Yo man you can’t be serious my baby girl is dead in that church. You’re really going to do this?
Sorry for your loss but that doesn't excuse you from assaulting someone, especially a woman.
Let him go I say in a whisper.
Ignored, Detective Walker continues with Hector.
Let him go, leave him alone I say raising my
voice. In disbelief, Detective Walker looks at me.
Just let him go.
Walking away I hear Detective Walker warning Hector. Fully not understanding what he is telling him but it clearly sounds like a threat.
Mrs. Morris, Mrs. Morris I know you hear me...
Once at my car I turn and respond What?
Are you okay?
I already told you I'm fine. Just let me be.
From what I saw, you’re far from fine.
I said I’m fine, so fucking very fine. I open the car door, get in and pull off as quickly as I can.
My face feels like it is on fire. What is wrong with me? What am I doing? Not wanting to be alone but needing and wanting a conversation with Mr. Absolute, I set my sights on McFeeny's. Yes I’ll have just one drink then head home.
Arriving around noon the bar was preparing itself for all those poor souls like me who needed comfort from a place that doesn’t judge. Entering I find that I’m one of the early ones. Other than my arrival just the bartender and two other souls are present. I sit at the end of the bar.
What can I get you?
Straight absolute please
Looking at me with both amusement and disbelief Tough day already?
Yes
Well here you go. Hope this helps.
Within seconds of the bartender putting my shot down is as quickly as I chug it. Can I have another?
Yes I see one bitching of a day. Maybe this one, take it a little slow?
Ahem… Yeah but if you do not mind, can you just leave the bottle?
I guess I could.
By the look on the bartender’s face he is unsure if he should engage in conversation with me or not. I guess not since he takes a seat at the opposite end of the bar. That’s probably best, as of right this moment I do not think I am able to filter my thoughts.
My drinking continued until the sun is just about to set. Over the course of several hours here I not only finished the bottle of Absolute but I managed to gulp down two gifted shots as well. Barely able to maintain a single thought, I decide to make my way home. Where are my keys? I know I had them. I get off the bar stool to see if I dropped them. My head begins to spin faster and faster. Waving my hands to get the bartender’s attention… Excuse me can I have a glass of water?
Sure. Would you like me to call a cab?
No... No trying not to slur my words. I'm going to walk.
Are you sure?
Yes, I live nearby. I take a sip of my water, stand and begin my journey home.
Walking I'm appreciating the cool summer air hitting my face. Oh but how many more steps. Feeling as if I had been walking for hours I arrive to my apartment about twenty minutes later. I'll just sit here on the step for a few minutes. My head is spinning. I place my head onto my lap. Not even a good minute later I feel someone over me.
Mrs. Morris… Mrs. Morris is this the first time you have been home today?
What? I look up and in my best drunken Dr. McCoy’s voice “Good God man” and I burst out laughing.
Mrs. Morris.... Is this your first time home?
...........
Angrily, CAN YOU PLEASE ANSWER THE DAMN QUESTION!
What the fuck is wrong with you laughing yes I'm just getting home.
Is someone staying in your apartment?
No I begin to sing, no one staying in my apartment – no one staying in my…
Give me your key.
What?
Your key please.
Why????
COULD YOU PLEASE GIVE ME YOUR KEY!
Fumbling I take my keys from my purse. Here and I toss them to Detective Walker.
Stay here! Do you hear me? Stay here! Detective Walker goes into the building
Tip toe through the valley or is it tulips? Shit tulip… valley… I begin to laugh.
Detective Walker returns. He’s on his cell phone Send a car over to… home broken into.
What, whose home?
Shh
Oh hell no, did he just shh me? Even louder now… ((Whose Home))??
Detective Walker continues his phone call I’m on the scene.
Whose home was broken into?????
Shh this time he put his finger over his lips
Did this fucking man shh me again? ((HELLO))
Ending his call he answers your apartment.
What? I stand up, stumbling a bit and head to my apartment.
Let’s wait for the police
Wait? (((Hell No))) aren’t you the police? Without any hesitance I run into the building, up the stairs to the second floor, turn right and arrive at apartment 2A right behind me, Detective Walker.
Do not touch anything.
What the fuck, really? I can’t believe what I see, my home is completely in disarray.
Do you notice anything missing?
I scan the living room, electronics all in place. I go into my bedroom and all my clothing on the floor. The kitchen, all my food from the refrigerator and freezer tossed all over the place. What the fuck... Why??????
Do you notice anything missing?
Not so far.
Knock… Knock... Knock... Police...
I’m Detective Walker and he flashes his shield.... So far nothing seems to be missing. No evidence of how the intruder got in. Windows and doors were locked. Start dusting and lift any prints you can.
In disbelief I begin to question why this is happening. Then in the midst of my sudden pity party I realize that I don’t see Gizmo. Shit where is he? ((Gizmo))..... ((Gizmo))... (((Gizmo))).... Where is he?
Detective Walker walks over to me Mrs. Morris what is it a puzzled look on his face
Gizmo… I don’t see him and he hasn’t responded to me calling him.
Detective Walker and I begin looking throughout the apartment, looking in all closets, cabinets and storage spaces. No sign of Gizmo.
Officer, Detective Walker summons scan out front and the building for a black and white cat. Weighing about 20 pounds, answers to Gizmo.
Unable to sustain my emotions I yell out He wouldn't leave the apartment, he won’t even go into the hall.
Realization of Gizmo not answering, I begin to sober up. Taking in the chaos around me, my personal belongs on display for every fucking officer in my apartment right now. Why is this happening? I turn to get some possible answers from Detective Walker but he's off in an animated conversation with another detective? When will this day end?
Approximately forty-five minutes later, my apartment begins to become scarce of the many bodies it was holding.
Detective Walker we searched the building and surrounding areas, no cat.
Alright thanks.
This fucking day! Who would want to do this? For what? The only item missing, my cat?
Mrs. Morris, you should arrange to get your locks changed first thing in the morning.
Yeah, okay and I exhale.
Can you stay with a family member this evening?
What? Why? Not giving time for him to answer I’m fine right here.
I beg to differ. Call your sister, Cynthia?
Sure, I’ll call after everyone leaves.
The last officers are heading out. Detective Walker follows but turns to me “Call your sister”.
I will. I'll be out in ten minutes. I just need a moment to myself.
Can I ask you one question before I go?
I guess...
Hector Rodriguez, does he know where you live?
No, I don't think so.
Ever give anything to Rosa with your address or Telephone number?
Rosa has my telephone number and yes both Rosa and Rosie have been to my home many times.
Okay, ten minutes.
Yes I'll be out in ten. Good night!
Call if you need anything.
I close the door behind Detective Walker. Taking in my surroundings I attempt to clean up, beginning in the kitchen, what a mess. Food taken out of the refrigerator, tossed on the floor why? I go to take cleaning supplies from under the sink and notice Gizmo's food is missing? I turn to scan his dish, gone? I check my bedroom for his scratching post hut. Gone too? This isn't making any sense. Someone took my cat? Why? Must be a reason? Cynthia is the only one with a key. But she wouldn't just come over, take Gizmo? I pick up the phone and call.
Hey Cynthia
Hi Beth… Weren’t you supposed to call me back a few days ago?
Sorry, been a little busy. How are you?
Don't try to change the subject.
I'm not
So what is wrong?
Just wanted to know if you came by my place today?
No.... why?
No reason. Oh sorry Cynthia my cell is ringing, I will call you back. A little white lie and before I give her the opportunity to call me a liar I hang up. What the hell is going on? I pour myself a little of Mr. Absolute to help me understand what is going on. The phone rings.
I didn't mean to hang up so quickly another lie
Hello?
Oh fucking bloody hell, yes Detective Walker?
Just checking to see if you left already?
Yup I did. I’m walking to my car now.
Really?
Yes. So thank you and I will talk to you another time, Good night! I hang up the phone. Startled by two loud knocks on my door, I jump.
Who is it?
Detective Walker
You’re fucking kidding me. Is this a joke? I swing open the door.
Wow, amazing you made it from your car that quickly. By the way do you even know where your car is?
Holy shit, I forgot I parked by McFeeney's. You found me out. Listen I'm fine, no worries so please go tend after someone that needs tending to.
Mrs. Morris, I really don't think you take this matter seriously. Your apartment was broken into and the only item that seems to be missing is your cat and all his items.
How do you know his items are missing?
I noticed and by the way you answered the phone you were not honest with your sister regarding what occurred here this evening!
Listen it's been a very long and exhausting day, all I want to do is go to bed so on that note, good night Detective Walker!
You’re absolutely correct, you did have an eventful exhausting day so please grab your purse and come with me.
What?
Listen you can't sleep here tonight, not until the locks have been changed.
I can!
You can't and you won't. We can do this the hard way or my way?
Your delusional right now aren't you?
Please get your purse.
Listen it is late and my family is all the way on the other side of Queens. I'm fine right here Detective Walker.
Well I live in the building where you forgot… ahem… left your car.
He lives that close? Great to hear you live nearby but I can't stay in your apt. Do we need to review the whole stranger thing?
Do we need to review I have a gun and stayed in an apartment with a woman who barely could spell her name due to her solo party with a Mr. Absolute?
Instantly I burst out laughing, you won this round. I pick up my purse and walk out the door. I sit quietly during the ride to his home. When we arrive, I check on my car and follow Detective Walker to his third floor apartment.
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