Disclaimer: I do not Pokemon or any of the characters
Here's the first book of my Season for Murder series. This first book is going to take place in New York. This is my first attempt of a mystery so I hope you like it.
The painting had balance, form and contrast. It told a complex story of darkness and childhood innocence that could make any man or woman weep. Every stroke was controlled, planned and precise. It reached all the criteria her art professor would list. No doubt it would sell for millions.
Crystal wouldn't pay a penny for it.
She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear and took more notes on the painting she was studying. Corruption, the painting was labeled, lacked passion and inspiration. All in all, the painting was subdued at best.
Crystal looked away from the two large innocent eyes staring at her. It unnerved at how realistic the boy in the painting was. He couldn't be anymore than seven. There was little detail she could see about the boy since blood soak his clothes, hair and stained his face. She felt as if the she could reach out and touch the Boyd's hand. The crimson blood stood out against the dark alleyway background.
She had to admit though, this was one of the best gothic paintings she seem in a long time. The only thing stopping it from being the best was the lack of feelings behind the piece.
"There it is!" Crystal rolled her eyes at the cries of adolescent girls. She rolled her eyes and wondered if she was like them at that age. At the age of twenty three, she had long ago grown out of such immaturity. The way the girls were squealing, people would think that the painter was famous rock. She never saw the painter before in her life but doubt that there was anything special about him.
"Hey lady, move out of the way." A small blond woman pushed at Crystal's arm.
"I'm sorry." Crystal amended. She moved onto the next painting.
Fallen Angel, Crystal tilted her head to the side. It was by the same artist as the last, Gold Dallas. It wasn't like the other cliché paintings of angels she seen. This angel had long blond hair flowing behind her as she stood beside a riverbank. It was as if the artist had captured her while she was in the middle of kneeling down next to a man. The only thing she could see of the broken man was his dark hair because he was on his knees with his face on his hands. The dark figure of the man was a perfect contrast with the glowing beauty of the angel. The thing that caught her eye was the knife the angel was holding.
But once again, it was cold and distant.
It seemed the whole gallery was a tribute to the painter. He wasn't even dead yet and he was this famous!
"That's one of my favourites." Crystal jumped a little when she heard a deep voice startled her.
"Pardon?" She turned to see a man standing behind her.
She had to tilt her head up to look into his eyes since he stood a head taller than her so that the top of her head could easily fit in the crook of his neck. She was taller than the average woman so she was shock at the height of the man before her. He grinned and leaned closer so she could feel his breath against her ear. He had a lazy confident about him and a lopsided smile. He had shaggy black hair that reached the nape of his neck with strand of hair falling over his forehead and eyes. He had a strong jaw but the strength of his face was softened by his sensuously full lips. The thing that caught her eye was his gold eyes.
The artist in her couldn't help but notice the little details in his eyes. There were small specks of dark gold surrounding his pupil and rays of light brown. The brightness of his eyes contrasted with his dark hair like a new moon against a cloudless night sky. There seem to be an endless depth of colour and she could drown in them. Her fingers itched to capture them.
He was easily the most beautiful man she ever saw.
His grinned widened as he spoke. "See something you like?"
Crystal didn't respond but flushed deeply to the roots of her hair. Had she been staring? She turned away quickly and responded, "Not a thing."
"That's my favourite too." He said. "What do you think of it?"
"I'm sorry?"
"That painting. I've noticed you taking some notes in the little notebook of yours. So what do you think of Gold Dallas's newest paintings."
"I am a reporter for the New York Times. I'm here to review Mr. Dallas's new collection of gothic paintings. To be honest, I don't see this collection of gothic painting being successful." Crystal replied honestly, "Everything is there but it's cold. It's as if it was painted by a computer. I can only imagine what kind of man he is."
"I think he's funny and down to earth and very interested in a certain little reporter." Crystal felt her breath catch when he rested his chin on the top of her head.
Crystal rolled her eyes and brought down her feet on his. She turned sharply when he grunted and turned on him, kicking his feet out from under him. She placed her hands on her hips and stood over him. "Stay away from me. I should report you for harassment. Who do you think you are anyways?"
"I'm the cold robotic artist Gold Dallas." Crystal jumped back at his words. She never thought Gold would be this handsome. "Now that you know my name, it's only fair that you tell me yours."
Crystal rolled her eyes but replied, "Crystal Hale."
"A beautiful name for a beautiful woman. It also matches your eyes. I would give anything to paint them, will you forgive my horrid behaviour. I'll even take you out for dinner." Gold lifted a strand of her hair but she merely slapped his hand away.
"Pretty words won't make me give you a better review." She stated. She knew her art critiques were well known and she was notorious for breaking or making artists' careers. No doubt he was afraid that she would hurt his pocket book.
"You hurt me my lady." He clutched his heart and sent her an exaggerated pout. Crystal would've giggled if she didn't already know he was like every other artist she knew.
"Find someone else to entertain your time." Crystal waved him away and walked to the next painting. She didn't look to see if he followed since the loss of his heat was enough to of a sign for her.
"Wait!" She turned to see Gold run toward her. "Don't you want to interview me for your article? I'll answer any question you want over dinner."
Crystal thought it over for a moment. One of the reasons she never saw the elusive artist Gold was because he never did a live interview or any other kind of interview for the fact. If she was able to get an interview with him, it would mean a lot for her career as a reporter.
"Coffee at this café I know." Crystal said. She wanted at least a little control of the situation. "As soon as we're finished our coffee and whatever else you order, the interview will also be over. Are we understood?"
"Yes ma'am." He grinned like a little boy, "We'll take my car."
Crystal checked her watch and saw that it was almost ten at night. Her sister would worry about her if she didn't call. When Gold noticed that she wasn't following, he turned and raised an eyebrow at her. "I just need to call my sister to tell her I'm coming home late."
"If I have my way, she wouldn't be expecting you to return home tonight." Crystal rolled her eyes as she heard her phone ring. It only took three rings before she heard her sister answer.
"What's up sis?" Lyra asked.
"Nothing," Crystal answered. "I'm going to home late so don't wait up."
"Who is it?" Crystal could hear the grin in her sister's voice.
"It's work and coffee."
"You need to get a life."
"You're one to talk. How's Operation Mr. Mystery going?" Crystal laughed as she imagined the flush that was doubtlessly creeping on Lyra's face. "Have you taken my advice and try to get his attention? You know what you should do? You should rob him. He'll have no choice but to notice you."
"He's a police officer!" Lyra laughed. "No doubt he'll send me to jail. But I did talk to him today. I was at the bookstore today when I ran into him, quite literally. I had eighteen mystery novels in my arms and I was struggling to carry them so I couldn't see where I was going. I walked into him and my novels went flying! It was a beautiful mess. He was so sweet and helped me carry them to the front counter. He grunted all the while but still, it was sweet of him. He noticed all of the mystery novels I had and I told him how I love mystery novels and was planning to write one. I asked if he would take me to the station so I could get a feel for police work for my novel and he said he'll think about it!"
"That's great Lyra." Crystal smiled at her sister giddiness. She knew her sister could go on for hours and admired her easy going personality. "Tell me more tomorrow, I need to get to work. See you tonight."
"That was one of the most interesting one sided conversation I ever heard." Gold grinned. He put his arm around her waist and ushered her out into the parking lot. He stopped at a black Porsche and opened the passenger door for her. "I'm sorry I didn't ask you before, but did you drive here? I wouldn't want to leave our car stranded."
"I took a taxi." She moved into the passenger seat. "Thanks for asking."
"I'm more than just a pretty face." Gold went behind the wheel and started the engine. "Buckle up."
After five seconds of being in the car with Gold, she discovered the reason why the road had so many rules. Gold drove as if the demons of Hell were after them! Somehow he managed to follow her direction without missing a beat. By some miracle, they never encounter a red light or they would've been dead for sure! There was no way they could stop in time.
When they finally stopped and Gold helped her out of the car, her legs were shaky. She shut her eyes in shame when she stumbled and Gold caught her against his body. He held for several seconds longer than necessary. She didn't need to look up at him to know that he was smiling.
"Whoever allowed you to drive is an idiot." Crystal stated. "Let's just get this interview over with."
"Loosen up, Crys." Crystal eyes flinched. How could he guess the nickname only her family and close friends knew? "You the most serious gal I've had the pleasure of meeting. That's what I should call you, SuperSerious Gal."
"Don't bother with a nickname. This is going to be the last and only time we talk. This is merely professional."
"If that is what you wish."
Gold placed his arm around her waist and inhaled the scent of lilies. Like he guessed, she fitted into his arms perfectly. He wanted to playfully tug at her dark blue hair. It was unusual but beautiful to him. He would have to ask her how she came to such a strange hair colour. She tied her hair into two pigtails that fell in soft waved around her shoulders. She had a small body that was curved in all the right places, just right for his hands. Her eyes were a clear light blue.
He would give anything for a moment to paint her.
The natural gentleman in him required him to open the door for her. She merely walk pass him coldly. He grinned since he didn't like winning over his women easily. She would be an interesting challenge.
Gold even pulled out a chair for her when they reached their table next to a large window. She quickly ordered herself a coffee but Gold ordered more than that. Much more. She was sure the waitress went through several pieces of paper to take down all the bakery goods he ordered.
"Why have you never appeared in an interview before now?" Crystal asked. She had to admit that he was adorable with the way he ate and talked easily.
"I didn't want to." Gold answered easily. "I always thought it would add to the mystery I portray. I also need my alone time and try to keep all personal information to myself. Though, I'm not doing such a good job of it since I still have craze girls banging on my door. I was hoping to crash at me friend's house until it dies down but after a few days, they found me and Silver threw me out on my butt. To think one of the city's best police officer can't keep a couple of crazed fan girls away. Sure, it's every guy's dream to have herds of beautiful woman chase after them, but it gets old quickly."
Crystal couldn't help but laugh at that.
Just as Crystal was going to ask another question about his art, two girls ran to their table. She recognized one as the blond from the art gallery but didn't remember seeing her friend. She was oddly quiet but stated at Gold with wide eyes.
"You're the artist, Gold, aren't you? Oh my God, you are! Please sign my sketchbook!" The blonde had stars in her eyes.
She continued to talk even as Crystal notice that Gold's ire was rising. Was he getting angry because I this little encounter? He was so easy going just a moment ago. Then she remembered him telling her about his lack of privacy. She wanted to reach over and touch his hand when she saw his hand tighten on his cup.
"This is an interview." Crystal took out her reporter id and showed it to the two girls in case the doubt her words. "I have a very tight schedule so can you please leave us."
"I'm not talking to you." The blonde's eyes flashed. She took the cup of coffee on the table and poured it over Crystal's shirt. She laughed as Crystal stood and dabbed her white shirt with a napkin. Gold stood suddenly and slammed his fist on the table making the dishes clatter.
"Leave." The women glared at Crystal before walking away. Gold sighed and dabbed his napkin over the stain on her shirt. "Sorry, but I don't think it's coming out. I guess you have your story now."
"I don't write about that kind of things." She said when she realized that he was talking about the scene with the two girls. "I write about art and artistes, not scandals."
Gold smiled down at her. "Maybe we can try this again tomorrow."
"The report's due tomorrow so I can't. Anyway, my review still stands."
"Oh shut up." Gold growled at his best friend of twenty years. Silver McAlister, who was usual silent, laughed loudly, throwing his head back. He leaned back in his chair as he ordered another whiskey. "She took you down that easily."
Gold had told him about how he drove Crystal home and her sister attacked him with a bat thinking that he was attacking her sister. It was one thing to have her crazy sister chase him down the street with the bat, but another to have her do it just as he was going to kiss Crystal.
"This Crystal seems like a smart girl. Smart enough to know to stay away from you." Silver took another drink of his whiskey.
"You know I can get any girl I want. How about a bet? If I can win her heart, you'll have to ask out that cute brunette that been stalking you." Gold said confidently. Silver knew that Gold was exaggerating but agreed to the bet.
"I'll take that bet." Silver shook Gold's hand. "And if I win, you'll have a public autograph signing where all your amazing fans can come for free and get a kiss."
Gold nodded. He didn't have any doubt that he would win. No one could resist his charms for long. He'll get Crystal and watch his best friend in pain. From what Silver told him, she little stalker was crazy, maybe more crazy than Crystal's sister. "So how it's going on my restraining order? I need it now more than ever."
"I told you, I can't file restraining orders for eight hundred little girls just because they annoy you." Silver stated.
"What if I paid you?" Gold ask cheekily.
"Here's another pile of hate mail from the fans of that artist you reviewed." Lyra walked into Crystal's room holding several letter. "People would think you flamed that silly boy band rather than some artist. Even I didn't get this much letters when I wrote that article about that local colt."
Crystal didn't bother to look at them. It had been a week and the letters hadn't slowed. She merely threw the letters on her desk and continued molding the clay before her. Lyra leaned against the table and picked up one of her carving tools.
"I'm going to be out to get information for my next article." Lyra said, making Crystal look up. There was something in her voice that caught her attention. Worry. Her sister also worked at the New York Times and was known for finding the best stories before everyone else. This time, she knew it was something different.
"What is it?" Crystal put down the clay she was holding.
"There's been a murder. I'm going to write an article about it." Lyra said softly. Crystal knew her sister had written about other murders and her means of information were… different. Even if she knew this, she couldn't see why she was worried. Lyra was one of the best fighter she knew and carried a knife in her purse, one she used damn well.
"Where?"
"Outside the art gallery." Lyra answered, "I know this sounds strange, but I don't have a good feeling about this. I can feel it in my gut. But rent is due soon so I'm going to write this and sell the story as quickly as I can. I might be out late for it."
"Take Tiny." Crystal ordered more than suggested. Lyra nodded and left the room.
Unable to continue working on her next sculpture, she moved to the letters she threw aside. The one on top caught her eye. It had neat writing in scarlet red ink in contrast to the other written in black with angry penmanship. Curious, Crystal opened it and began to read. The first could paragraph was the usual. Angry words about how she was wrong and she lacked knowledge, how she couldn't see true talent. It even went as far as saying she was going to Hell for writing her article.
Nothing she hadn't read before.
Crystal eyebrow rose when she read the last paragraph. Its tone changed dramatically. It was deadly calm.
She sigh as she put the letter aside. She didn't know what to do with the strange letter so she resigned to wait for her sister to return home. She was sure Lyra would know what to do.
"My name is Lyra McAlister." Lyra lied to the officer. She pretended to stumble and brushed her hand innocently over his chest. She regained her balance and tucked a strand of hair behind her ear with her other hand. When she saw the young officer's rosy blush, she knew she could go on. "You must know my cousin, Silver. I'm studying at the academy so I can follow in his footsteps."
"I didn't know Silver had a cousin."
"He isn't known for his talking." She answered him easily and tried to look around him. "When I heard what happened, I wanted to check it out. what time did the murder occur?"
"Lyra Hale!" She jumped when she heard her name being called.
"I gotta go." Lyra tucked her notepad into her pocket before turning and run. But it was too late. She turned and ran straight into his chest. She looked up to see Silver tower over her.
Unlike her sister, she was short and could only dream of reaching five feet five. So it was logical that a man over six feet towered over her. For God sake, she didn't even reach his shoulder. Running into him was like running into a brick wall. There wasn't an inch of fat on the man. She swore that God gave him wide shoulders just to make her feel smaller. He had a strong jaw and his face showed signs of many years of hardship. He had reddish hair that was longer than was in taller, reaching his shoulder. His grey eyes caused something to tug at her heart. They were and endless pool of grey. They were hard and elusive, as if it refused to let anyone in.
"Silver…" She said breathlessly.
"Go to the café across the street and wait for me there. I'll deal with you later." He said in a low deadly voice that didn't allow any argument. Thankfully she nodded and walked to the café with a dog bigger than Texas following her.
Silver watched her as she left a little too closer. She wasn't much in terms of curves and height, but there was something that made him look twice. Maybe it was the large hat she wore that resembled the one Mario wore. She was so small, that he thought she was in her teens when he first saw her so it surprised him when she told him that she was only a year younger than his twenty three. Her hair light brown was tied into two ridiculous ponytails. He never thought that a pair of plain brown eyes could make him look twice. They held every shade of brown he could name as well as an innocence he envied.
Silver pulled himself away from his thoughts and turned to the crime scene. He gave it a quick glance one over. It was, in on word, art. The victim was positioned so that he reached up to the sky. Recognition sparked in his mind. He saw this scene somewhere before.
Silver turned to read the words neatly printed in blood. He clenched his jaw and tightened his fist.
There's the first chapter! Hope you like and review.
There's going to be a change in the couples for the series.
Book 1: A Sacred Summer (Mangaquestshipping slight SoulSilverShipping)
Book 2: A Winter Wedding (OldRivalShipping)
Book 3: An Autumn Affair (SpecialShipping)
Book 4: A Spring Scandal (FranticShipping slight Commonershipping and Agencyshipping)