Branded for Murder (Scott Tucker Series) Read online

  “I like that idea Paddy. I also like the idea of getting Scott involved. What were your thoughts on his participation at the meeting the other day?”

  “As I mentioned following the meeting, he looked like he might just pass out. However, now that I think about my earlier career, many of those early cases shocked the hell out of me. It’s hard to think back that far, thinking you can just get used to these crimes. I guess I’ve become desensitized. That’s kind of scary in itself. I did think Scott got very interested in the details. It would be interesting to see what he thinks when he arrives this morning…if he arrives.” Paddy’s comment forced a chuckle from both of them.

  Chapter 18

  The funeral and family gathering in Maine would have made Jackie proud. I really enjoyed sitting around at Jackie’s parents’ house, reminiscing about the past. I knew she was into sports, but I hadn’t heard the funny stories about how much grief she caused trying to get on the boys’ teams. Maybe she was with us—listening.

  Dad and I shared glances when the conversation centered on the serial killer. I listened to the comments and opinions and kept what I knew to myself. Someone announced the food was ready and that was the last mention of the strangler. Unfortunately, I couldn’t ignore what the women endured in their last hours. It was hard to control my rage. I spent considerable time over the weekend reminiscing. I promised myself I would not let my life be a waste and I promised again that I would find her killer.

  *.*.*

  Earlier, driving back to my apartment, I had hours to think about everything. I had finally accepted the fact that Jackie was no longer with us. I had a serious task ahead of me, helping to find her killer. I wish I had spent more time with her, but I have the memories of the time we did share.

  Seeing my Uncle Jack and Aunt Frances accepting what happened, talking about forgiveness…well, I don’t know if I can actually do that. I have never hurt anyone on purpose, but I think I would have a tough time holding back my rage if I met this killer face to face. I would have to forgive myself later. He deserves some pain.

  The time with my extended family also took my mind off Lisa. Well, it took my mind off her when I was with them, but not now. I remember how soft she felt, how warm she felt, how nice she kissed, and how my body reacted to her. Seeing Jackie looking like a princess with that rose, I knew she was telling me what she was talking about—finding the right person would change my outlook on things. I know she knows what I am feeling. Thank you Jackie for preparing me, I promise I won’t let you down!

  *.*.*

  I was a little late arriving at the task force office. When I opened the door to the office, Colleen’s face lit up, acknowledging my entry. “Well good morning sunshine. I was hoping you were coming in. I thought maybe the conference room session was too much for you.”

  I knew she was partially kidding, but I also knew there was a ring of truth in what she said. “Thanks Colleen, and a good morning to you. I was a little late since I drove down from Maine this morning.” I noticed her bright orange sweater and she had changed her hair style. “You look very nice this morning. I like it.” I hung up my coat and noticed the coat rack was already loaded with jackets.

  I looked at her as she fluffed her hair with her palm. “Do you really like it?”

  I wanted to say I was talking about her sweater, but thought better of it. “I like what you did with it.” We smiled at each other for a couple of seconds. “Where can I find Mike?”

  She pointed upstairs. “He’s upstairs with Paddy. He asked me to give you the typed records of the conference room session last week.” She hesitated. “I typed them up, but that’s why I said what I said about your not coming in. I shouldn’t have made fun about your involvement.”

  I smiled at her. “It’s okay Colleen, we are both the youngest members, and its okay for us to share our thoughts. It’s okay, really.” I went over and whispered, “As a matter of fact I was talking about how nice the sweater looked on you.”

  She had a surprised look on her face, looked down and started to blush. “Okay, so now you got even. Thanks, I guess.”

  I turned and went to my assigned desk near Mike’s, noticing some new faces in the room. Some heads looked up, but no one said good morning. I adjusted the swivel chair which was set too low, and started to read the material Colleen provided.

  *.*.*

  It was not like the school material I was familiar with. It was blunt and to the point. It was not how sensitively it was discussed when we covered the material. It was almost shocking in its detail. Reading about what was found at crime scenes was more than I really wanted to know. I’m not sure if when I read the folders the first time, I had seen that detail, or whether I had suppressed it. It was good in a way to have it, but I had no desire to look at the material again. I knew I had to this time, but I was very uncomfortable. I was glad Mike wasn’t here to see my reaction.

  The summary was just what we talked about at the end of the meeting. This was a little easier to stomach. Chris’ input labeled a ‘Profile of the Killer’ was very interesting. I read it more than once. I could almost picture the guy, but knew that was ridiculous. I had burned the theorized killer’s description into my mind and, again, went through the various scenarios I had considered on my ride up to Maine.

  Mike came around the corner. “Good morning Scott. I’m sorry I missed you when you came in, but I’ve been with Paddy for some time.”

  “Good morning Mike. I was late coming in this morning myself. I drove down from Maine,” I said, knowing that needed more of an explanation. “We had an important family gathering I had to attend.”

  “Thanks for being honest with me Scott, I like that. Family gatherings are important and we never seem to do as many as we should. Detective work keeps me pretty busy, but I enjoy the time with my family.”

  Now I felt guilty about not sharing Jackie’s association with the cases. I thought about how much more difficult it is going to be in the future to tell him. I know I’m going to have to tell him, but I need the right time to do it. It’s too soon. Mike looked at me expectantly, realizing I hadn’t responded to him. “I have a small family, so our family gatherings are not that large.” I added, “Did you have a nice weekend?” I could tell he was studying me.

  “Yes and no. It was nice to have the time with my wife and kids, but my mind was really thinking about what we covered when you were here last. The material you’re looking at there.”

  “Mike, I have a confession to make,” I offered, and he stopped walking to his desk. “I had a long drive to Maine. My mind was reeling about how this predator got into my…their apartments.” I realized I barely caught myself.

  “That’s the same thing I have been considering. It’s hard to believe every one of these women let the killer in with no sign of struggle or screaming. Something gave them a comfort level. For the life of me, I can’t think what it could have been.”

  I wondered if I should share my thoughts with him. “Mike, what about someone dressed up like a woman, or a police detective, or better yet, a female police detective?”

  Mike sat down, motioning me over to his side chair. “I need another coffee, but I’ll get it in a minute,” he responded, and then added, “Those are very interesting thoughts. I hadn’t really given any thought to a man dressed like a woman. That aspect would give them more comfort than a man at their door. However, we know the killer brought some things with him. I’m thinking about what a detective could bring with him, or her, that wouldn’t look out of place?”

  I gave that some thought, not immediately answering.

  “Scott, I’m getting another coffee.”

  “I’ll go with you.”

  “Scott, do you have plans after work today?” he asked.

  “What did you have in mind?”

  “There is a pub around the corner that I enjoy. It’s a good place to think, and the draft beer is also good.”

  “That sounds good to me. Thanks for the
invite.”

  “I like your thoughts about a man dressed like a female detective. He could be carrying a pocketbook and wouldn’t necessarily be noticed and would have room for the things he brings with him.” Mike opened his notebook and made some notes. “Scott, we’re having several detectives research and pull some recent rape reports in the Boston area. Paul is over at headquarters and will be bringing the first of those reports back. I would like you to look them over and see if you can spot anything in the reports that resemble any of the strangler cases. Paul might be able to help, but he has a couple of other things besides this.”

  “Thanks Mike. I hope it helps. I’ll look the material over when it comes.”

  “Good. Have you finished looking at all of the existing strangler case material?”

  “Well, I have several that I haven’t looked at yet.”

  “Okay. When Paul comes in tell him I asked you to look at those rape cases. I think it’s important you’re familiar with all of the strangler cases…you might even spot something we missed. Okay?” He looked at me. “You okay?”

  I tried to respond quickly, “Yeah, it’s no problem. I’m okay.” I knew which cases I had not finished reviewing. I could tell he was studying me. I really have to tell him about my cousin Jackie, and maybe tonight will be the perfect opportunity to do that.

  *.*.*

  “Good morning Scott. It’s nice to see you still with us. I’m sure Colleen enjoys someone her age in the office. The rest of us are old turkeys,” Paul said as he put some folders on the corner of my desk.

  I looked at him, knowing he couldn’t be more than ten years older than me. He was friendly to me and I appreciated knowing I wasn’t considered in the way. “Scott, unfortunately there are a lot more of these, but these are the ones I could put my hands on quickly. I’ll pick up the balance later today and get those to you. Enjoy the reading.”

  I thought about checking these new files out, but knew I had to finish the other two including my cousin’s.

  About a half hour later I was down to the last remaining strangling case – Russell. I refilled my coffee and came back to my desk. I decided to go over to the file area and open her folder there. I was familiar with the content of the folders and read the first page. I paid no attention to the photographs and skipped to the autopsy report.

  The autopsy report had front and back diagrams with arrows and comments about what was noted. I made some sense out of the technical terms. She was found with nylon panties in her mouth and electrical tape across her mouth, which was wound completely around her head. Two nylon stockings were knotted and had been pulled tightly around her neck. Cause of death, which was identical to the other cases, strangulation. Her wrists were tied with rope to each headboard. There were noted abrasions on both wrists, and both ankles.

  I needed to get control of my breathing, focusing on my coffee. I went back to reading the report. Her ankles had been tied to the bed, but were both untied when she was found. She had been displayed in a similar manner to the other victims. I was familiar enough with the other cases, knowing what to expect. I finished reading the autopsy report. There was nothing unusual compared to the other cases. She had been similarly molested. There was no semen found in the vaginal canal.

  I read the investigating officer report, noting nothing different than the others – nobody saw or heard anything. I had to finish the folder material. I went to the pictures, knowing what I was going to observe. As I looked at the pictures my hands started shaking. I looked around to see if anybody in the office was watching me, and they were not. I noticed my breathing was more rapid. I could feel anger building. I tried to put each of the pictures back down without hitting the table, but I had to consciously watch myself.

  I tried to control my gag reflex. I closed my eyes, letting the feeling pass. I could hear my own breathing. I knew right then that I could kill this monster if he was standing in front of me. I reassembled the folder the way I had found it, and looked up taking a deep breath.

  “Had enough Scott?” Mike asked, standing in front of me at the table. “You’re white as a ghost. Are you okay?”

  I didn’t say a word. I rushed from the table, heading to the restroom covering my mouth. I opened one of the stall doors, dropping to my knees. For about what seemed like an eternity, my insides came out. I tried not to make any noise but I couldn’t really tell. I flushed the toilet without looking and went to the sink to wash up. I wiped my face and tried to rinse my mouth. I fortunately didn’t have any company, but I knew Mike realized what had just happened.

  I went back to the office area, gathering up the folders and putting them back in the order I found them. Mike was busy at his desk, but I knew he was just giving me time to gather myself. I brought the folders back and placed them on his desk. I was a brilliant red, and knew it.

  He was feigning being busy and didn’t look at me. I’m glad he gave me time to get my dignity back. I went over to my desk and started reading the new rape case material. I felt embarrassed about how I reacted, but also realized that nothing would ever affect me the same way again. I had to force myself to remember how she looked at the wake. Jackie I will help find whoever did this to you…I promise. I’m so sorry.

  Chapter 19

  She had two restless nights. She couldn’t get Scott out of her mind. She hugged her pillow like it was him. However, the pillow did not compare to his body heat, when they were holding each other close. Her thoughts were bouncing back and forth. She was reliving their short time together, wondering what their next visit would bring. She never felt like this before, knowing she could not resist him when they were alone.

  “Earth to Lisa, are you in there?” Judy’s voice interrupted her thoughts. “Well you finally heard me. I’ve been trying to get your attention. Are you going to get dressed, or are you going to stay in that skimpy outfit all day?”

  “I’m sorry Judy. I was just thinking about Scott.” She could only share that much with her friend, not her intimate thoughts. She thought quickly about his erection and how he tried to downplay it. She smiled.

  “Lisa, I can tell you’re still thinking about him. You have that guilty smile on your face. You can’t fool me. I know all about these things. Neil and I have been together a lot longer than you and Scott.”

  She felt her life had changed for the good. She felt guilty feeling like this. The weekend was filled with President Kennedy’s funeral and details about the shooting in Dallas. “I’m sorry Judy. On one hand, meeting Scott was great and I’m filled with such hope. On the other hand, I feel so terrible about the President.”

  The newspapers were spread out on their small study table. Judy didn’t respond but looked at the pictures again. “Lisa, I still have to catch myself thinking I’m going to wake up and find that this was all a nightmare. It just seems so unreal. He seemed like such an honest man. He was so young and Mrs. Kennedy, Jackie, is so beautiful. It’s hard to look at these pictures. Look at little John saluting his dad.”

  Lisa got off her bed and came over to hug Judy. They both had been crying off and on all weekend. She had mixed emotions of happiness and sadness. They hugged each other for several minutes.

  She could feel the chill in the room which contrasted to Judy’s warmth. She thought again about the warmth of Scott’s body. She got a different chill this time while she held Judy. With her back to the window, she had the feeling they were being watched. She had this feeling often lately, and meant to mention it to Judy. She slowly broke their hug, reached for her teddy bear and held it close.

  “Judy.”

  “What Lisa. I’m okay now.”

  “Judy, that’s good. I’m glad, but I’m so sad in a way. I wanted to ask you something, but keep forgetting to bring it up.”

  “What’s that?”

  “This may sound strange…but do you ever have the feeling we are being watched here in our dorm room?”

  “Yeah I do, all the time,” Judy responded, looking over at Li
sa hugging her bear. “I’m sorry; you’re serious about this, aren’t you? I was talking about you being here with me. What are you saying?”

  She was silently collecting her thoughts and then responded slowly, “Ever since we were at that murder scene last week, I have the feeling someone is watching me. Remember I said we need to get curtains?”

  “Yes, I remember.” Judy went over to the window and looked across the alleyway to the other building. She looked at the building, not really studying it. “Lisa, the building is a prep school. There’s nobody there. It’s not open today due to the President’s shooting.” She went over to Lisa’s bed and sat down. “You’re just spooked because of the strangling the other day. If it makes you more comfortable we can get curtains.”

  Lisa felt the goose bumps on her legs. She knew Judy was right, but it hasn’t been just since that day. They had been in this room for three years and she still had similar feelings. She realized if she was so concerned about it, why hadn’t she taken the time to get curtains and put them up? Maybe she was just overreacting to the strangling down the street and the number of killings.

  She felt Judy studying her. “So lover girl, when are you supposed to hear from what’s his name?”

  Her mind quickly thought of Scott. “His name, as you know quite well is Scott, Scott Tucker. Lisa Tucker—that sounds pretty good. What do you think?”

  “I think you have it bad. You didn’t even answer my question. When are you supposed to hear from him?”

  “He had to go to Maine for a funeral. His cousin passed away. He was going to call here when he gets back into town. Maybe I’ll hear from him today.” She thought about how quickly they parted, not really remembering what he said. She left her phone number with him. She felt the teddy bear pressed against her chest, wishing it was Scott.