Race Against Time Page 6

  Except she did want to see that suicide note. Something had been bugging her. She wasn’t sure what. But the killer had been specific about what she wrote. There had to be a reason for that.

  She hadn’t been able to reach the baseball coach over at the high school, so while she was out she decided to swing by there. Kids were on summer break right now, but she knew that Coach Daniel would be at the school. She needed to talk to him about rescheduling.

  The school had been a big client for her and she didn’t want to lose the business. Madison took all of the sports pictures for the school, as well as yearbook photos. Thankfully the baseball coach was someone Madison knew from church. Daniel only moved here eight months ago, but he, in some ways, seemed like the brother she never had. They had an easy, lighthearted friendship that Madison appreciated. The man was close to her age and was known for always wearing a baseball cap backward, she assumed to partially cover up his early hair loss.

  Sweltering heat surrounded her when she emerged from her SUV. She hurried across the parking lot toward the baseball field. In the outfield Madison spotted members of the varsity team running through drills. She shielded her eyes from the sun and looked for Daniel. She knew he had a makeshift office beside the concession stand, so she decided to search for him there.

  She stepped onto the concrete floor of the dimly lit building, bypassed the cabinets stocked with candy bars and chips and headed for the door on the far side of the room. Rock music blared from that direction. She tapped at the door, but heard no response.

  “Daniel?” She pushed the door open slightly. A messy room filled with bats, balls and old uniforms came into view.

  As the door opened farther she spotted Daniel seated in a ratty chair in the corner. He hadn’t heard her, apparently. In his hand he held a needle, poised in the air.

  Madison gasped and stumbled backward. Horrifying memories flashed through her. Daniel? Was Daniel her attacker? It didn’t seem possible. But he did fit the description height- and weight-wise.

  “Madison?” He put the needle onto a nearby table and stared toward her. His eyebrows pivoted together. “What’s wrong?”

  She pointed to the needle. “You…? You…”

  He looked back at the piece of medical equipment. “Do shots freak you out? I know some people hate needles. I’ve had a while to get used to them.”

  Madison blinked back confusion. What was he talking about?

  “I’m diabetic. I thought you knew.”

  Diabetic? Daniel? She’d had no idea. She released an airy laugh.

  Diabetic.

  “I’m sorry, Daniel. I’m not laughing because of your diabetes. I’m laughing because of my foolish reaction. I’m so sorry.”

  “It’s no problem. I was just giving myself a little insulin shot, and I didn’t hear you come in.” He looked at her more closely. “Is everything okay? You’re not looking too hot.”

  She self-consciously touched the raw skin at her neck. Though she’d worn a high-neck shirt, she still felt like everyone could see her wound. “I’m okay.”

  He narrowed his eyes. “Why don’t I believe you? It was unlike you to miss our appointment yesterday. Then you show up today with circles under your eyes, a busted lip and jumpier than a bean.”

  She swallowed…or tried to, at least. “It’s nothing. Really. I’m fine.”

  He shifted. “Look, Madison, I don’t want to pry, but did someone hurt you? You didn’t start dating some guy who’s bad news, did you?”

  She shook her head. “No, it’s nothing like that. I just…” How much should she share? Certainly gossip had already begun to spread all over town. That’s what happened in small, close-knit communities like Seaford. She shrugged finally. “A man broke into my home yesterday and attacked me.”

  Daniel’s eyes widened. He reached for Madison’s arm in obvious concern. “Madison, I’m so sorry. Did they catch whomever did it?”

  “Not yet. They’re still working on it.”

  He stepped back and put his hands on his hips. “You’ve got to get Brody on the case. He used to work homicides up in New York City, you know. If anyone could track down the person who did this to you, it’s Brody.”

  Madison tilted her head in surprise. “You know Brody?”

  “We work out at the same gym. I think all the women there plan their schedules at the times when Brody’s usually there. He’s quite the ladies’ man, apparently.”

  Madison nodded, reeling from his proclamation about Brody being a womanizer. “Brody is on the case, and I wouldn’t know anything about the ladies’ man part. As far as I’m concerned, he’s just the lead detective.”

  “Probably a smart idea. He’s a nice enough guy, just not the family man type.”

  Madison had no interest in Brody, so why did Daniel’s insinuation bother her? She wasn’t looking for a family man—any man for the matter.

  She nodded toward the field. “Can we reschedule the pictures for tomorrow?”

  “Sure thing. I’ll make sure my guys are ready.”

  “I appreciate it, Daniel.” She started to walk away when Daniel called to her. She turned.

  “I asked Kayla to dinner tonight.”

  Madison raised her brows. “Kayla? I had no idea you two were dating.”

  He shrugged. “I’ve wanted to ask her out for a while, especially seeing how you’re not interested.” He winked.

  Madison waved him off, used to his jesting. “Such a charmer, you are.”

  His quick smile slipped. “Kayla said she was making dinner tonight and I could come over, but that you might be there.”

  “I can make myself scarce.”

  He laughed. “No, no. That’s not what I was trying to imply. I’m just having a hard time getting a read on her. I can’t tell if she’s politely trying to blow me off.”

  “I’ll tell you what. I’ll see what I can find out—but only because I feel sorry for you.”

  He clutched his heart in mock pain. “Ouch. You reject me, then cut into me with that line?”

  “Only because I know you can take it.” She punched his arm lightheartedly. “In the meantime, I’ll see you for dinner tonight.”

  “You’re the best, Madison.”

  She shook her head with a grin.

  The exhilaration of a new relationship. Now that was something that could distract her from the problems at hand…as long as she wasn’t a part of the equation.

  * * *

  By the time Madison grabbed a milk shake from a fast-food restaurant and then stopped by the drug store for a few items, Kayla was already back at the house with Lincoln. Madison walked in and soaked in the scent of garlic and onions. She only had a minute to enjoy it before Lincoln darted toward the front door and into her arms.

  Her body still ached from yesterday, but she could ignore those pains as her son wrapped his little arms around her neck. “How was school today?”

  “It was good. I want to go home now, though, Mommy.” His little boy eyes pleaded with her.

  “We’re going to stay here for a few more days, okay? Our house got a little messed up, so we have to make sure it’s all back in order before we go there.”

  “What happened?” He tilted his head innocently. Madison wanted nothing more than for him to hold on to that innocence for as long as possible.

  “It’s nothing for you to worry about it. We’ll get everything back together. It won’t be much longer…I promise.”

  “Madison!” Kayla appeared around the corner wearing a white apron splattered with marinara and a wooden spoon in hand. “I was just cooking dinner. Will you be staying here again tonight?”

  “Is that all right?”

  “More than all right. I’m happy to have you guys
here. But if it’s okay—”

  “—Daniel is coming over to eat tonight.” Madison finished for her.

  Kayla’s eyes widened. “How did you know?”

  “I ran into him at the school. I’m doing a photography job for the baseball team. And, of course, that’s fine.”

  Kayla blushed. “Okay, great. Dinner won’t be anything exciting. I’m just hoping it’s edible, for that matter.”

  Madison wanted to ask more questions, but didn’t. She didn’t quite know Kayla well enough to do so. Though Madison didn’t want any romantic entanglement in her own life, she loved seeing budding romance in others. It was such an exciting time. She had her own sweet memories of being in love. It was a once- in-a-lifetime experience for her. “I’m sure whatever you’re cooking will be great. It smells delicious.”

  “I’m actually glad you’re both going to be here because I hate those awkward moments that can happen on first dates. I get so nervous!”

  Madison smiled. “Maybe it won’t be awkward. Maybe you’ll both have plenty to talk about.”

  “Maybe. You probably dated plenty, didn’t you?” Kayla asked. “I mean, you’re gorgeous so I’m sure you have no shortage of men vying for a chance with you.”

  Madison shook her head. “Not really. Reid was my first love. We started dating in ninth grade. We dated on and off for the rest of high school and college and then we got married after we both graduated.”

  “Wow, that’s incredible. I don’t know too many people who ended up marrying their high-school sweetheart. That’s a real accomplishment.”

  Madison smiled wistfully. “Yeah, it was.”

  Lincoln tugged at her shirt. “Mom, come see what I made in school today.”

  Madison excused herself and followed her son back to the guest bedroom so she could gush over his art projects. A few minutes later the doorbell rang, and Madison heard Daniel’s booming voice from the front of the house. Madison and Lincoln joined the couple in the kitchen.

  “Madison, good to see you again.” He kissed her cheek. “The food smells wonderful.”

  Kayla blushed again, soaking in all of Daniel’s attention. No sooner did a round of small talk begin than the door bell rang again. Before Kayla could stand, the door opened and Brody stepped inside.

  “Please, join us to eat. We were just about to sit down,” Kayla said, leading him into the kitchen.

  Madison drew in a light breath when Brody came into the room. He just seemed to have that effect on people. Anyone could see he was easy on the eyes. He didn’t seem to hold it over people, though. Still there was something about him that was so mysterious, that seemed impossible to get past.

  Of course Madison wasn’t supposed to get past any walls that Brody had put up. She was merely an acquaintance. But why did the idea of getting to know him better seem so intriguing, then? She chided herself. She was getting into dangerous territory with her thoughts. She needed to keep her distance.

  “Madison.”

  She nodded his way. “Brody.”

  Lincoln looked up at him. “You’re our neighbor, the one that never talks to us.”

  Madison wanted to bury her face. “Lincoln!”

  “No, it’s okay.” Brody chuckled. “I admit, I haven’t been the best neighbor. I’m going to try and do better.”

  Lincoln’s chin jutted out and he nodded, hands on his hips. “You can start doing better by playing baseball with me sometime.”

  “Lincoln!”

  Brody chuckled again. “He’s got spunk—I like that. I would love to play baseball with you sometime, Lincoln. I think it’s a great idea.”

  “I always say if you want something you should go after it,” Daniel said. “I think I’m looking at a future member of my baseball team right here.”

  Brody reached his hand out. “Good to see you, Daniel. It’s been a while.”

  “Your fan club at the gym has been very disappointed by your absence lately.”

  “Fan club? That’s the first I’ve heard of that.”

  Madison had to give him some points for at least appearing humble. She wondered if he secretly relished the attention, though.

  “Won’t you stay and eat, Brody?” Kayla asked. “We have plenty.”

  Madison watched as Brody squirmed for a moment. She could only imagine that he was trying to think of an excuse to leave, to get away from her. Apparently nothing came to mind because he said, “I guess I can stay for a few minutes. But I will have to eat and run, so don’t be offended.”

  “I’m just happy that you’re actually staying. I don’t get to spend enough time with you, cousin. You’re always too busy working.”

  Everyone made pleasant small talk as dinner began.

  Halfway through, Brody looked at his watch. “Madison, could I steal a minute of your time before I run?”

  “Absolutely.”

  Brody stood and placed his napkin on the table. “Kayla, the meal was wonderful. Thank you for having me over.”

  “Let’s do it more often.”

  “I may have to take you up on that. Your cooking definitely beats the microwave meals I’m used to eating.”

  Madison cast another glance at Lincoln. He was busy chatting with Kayla and Daniel. He’d gotten the gift of gab from his father and he used his gift as often as possible. Seeing how at ease he was with others brought her both pleasure and distress. One could never be too careful in the world.

  Madison followed Brody into the living room. He pulled a piece of paper from his jacket pocket. “Here’s a copy of that note I promised you.”

  She took the paper from him and, as she did so, her throat went dry. She wanted to see it, but she didn’t. Instead of looking at the note, she folded it again and put the square in her jeans’ pocket. “Thank you.”

  He didn’t say anything for a moment. “Any reason why you wanted to see that?”

  “Just something about it is bothering me. I want to read it again and see if I can figure out what.” She shifted her weight. “Any updates on the investigation?”

  “We’re working as hard as we can, but nothing yet. The man left no prints, no hairs, no fibers, nothing.”

  “He was like a ghost.”

  “It’s still early. Don’t get discouraged.”

  “Discouraged probably isn’t the right word. It’s more like terrified. I don’t like being afraid to be in my own house. I just don’t know who to trust or how to protect my son.” She attempted a weak smile. “As a certified control freak, this is really knocking me off-kilter.”

  Brody shifted. “What can I do, Madison?”

  She shrugged. “Nothing, Brody. I’m sorry I vented. I don’t expect anything from you. I just…” She blew the air from her lungs and looked into the distance. “I’m going to get back to dinner. Thanks for the note.”

  She slipped away before her emotions got the best of her.

  SEVEN

  Brody remained at the front door, his hand on the knob, as he contemplated staying or going—the same song and dance he’d gone through earlier when he’d left his neighbor. He wanted to keep his distance, to remain professional. But another part of him, a part that he thought he’d buried, wanted desperately to help her, to ease her fears, to carry her burden.

  But, of course, he had to go. He had a job to do and that was the true way he could help Madison—by finding the would-be killer. The investigation was just moving much more slowly than he’d wanted and with every minute the culprit could be getting away.

  That was unacceptable.

  He wanted to go and talk to the families of the two other suicide victims also. He knew his colleagues had questioned them already and
he didn’t want to make them stir up any of those devastating memories again. But Brody just felt like there was something they were missing…much like Madison with that suicide note.

  Right now, he’d go ask about the timers. That might be the best lead they had at the moment. He’d start with Victor’s family. They’d claimed from the beginning that Victor wasn’t the type to commit suicide, even if he had struggled with depression.

  It was a shame, on more than one level, that Victor was no longer with the Sheriff’s Department. Victor had been one of the first people to try and befriend Brody when he’d arrived at work the first day nearly a year ago. Then one morning in June Victor didn’t report in to work. Another deputy had gone to his place and discovered his body. No one had seemed too surprised by the suicide note. Family members never wanted to believe that their loved one had committed suicide, though.

  Brody hoped that Victor’s mom wouldn’t mind him showing up at the doorstep. He knocked tentatively, trying to gather every ounce of bedside manner that he had. A moment later Mrs. Hanson answered. Her eyes were red-rimmed, and Brody wondered if she was still mourning the loss of her son. She’d probably be mourning for the rest of her life. People never seemed to get over the deaths of their children.

  “Detective, what can I do for you?” She sniffed and gripped the door handle like a lifeline.

  “Ma’am, I was hoping I could ask you a few questions concerning the death of your son.”

  “Detective Blackston was just here earlier today.”

  “A few additional questions have come up,” he explained gently.

  She hesitated before nodding and stepping back to invite Brody inside. “Of course, I’ll answer them. Especially if it means proving my son didn’t commit suicide. He loved me too much to take his own life.” She released a long, shuddering breath. “He was finally getting back on track. He loved his job with the Sheriff’s Office. I’ve said from the beginning that something doesn’t add up.”