Summary: Third season. Rated R (Graphic Violence and Language)
Author: Diane Minter
This is a Halloween based story. *This story contains graphic descriptions of murder and non-consensual sex.* Please read at your own risk. This story does contain spoilers from the SMK series. I hope you enjoy it and as always any comments good and bad are appreciated.
Disclaimers: Scarecrow and Mrs. King is copyrighted to Warner Brothers and Shoot the Moon Production Company. This story, however, is copyrighted to the above-mentioned author. This story is for entertainment purposes ONLY. If you would like to add it to an archive, please just let me know.
***I would like to send a very special thank you to my friend, Amy, for her encouragement, ideas, and support I needed to write this story. Also, a very warm thank you to EmilyAnn, and the SMKauthors group for helping me make this story reach its full potential.
Timeframe: Mid-third season (This story does break cannon)
Trail Of Blood
Chapter 5
The rest of Amanda's afternoon went well. She finished decorating the gym, with the help of several other mothers. She had noticed a new face within the group of volunteers. It wasn't long before she realized the woman was an agent. She wondered if Lee thought she would be oblivious to the presence of an agent. She played along and let the woman help do this and that. She could tell that the woman was really uncomfortable being amongst a bunch of mothers.
As the women put the final touches on the gym, Amanda walked up to the young agent. "Thanks for helping," she said, with her most polite smile.
"That's what us mothers are for," replied the agent.
"Tell Scarecrow I can always use the extra help," Amanda smiled mischievously, leaving the young agent in awe that this housewife had busted her cover.
Looking at her watch, Amanda realized it was already 3 o'clock, and Phillip would soon be out of class. She walked outside and decided to wait for him. There was no point in him riding the bus home since she was already there. Joe had picked Jamie up after lunch to start their weekend together. Maybe a little one-on-one with Phillip would be good.
She walked over to the empty playground and took a seat in one of the swings. She rocked back and forth putting it in motion. She looked up at the sky. Dark clouds were drifting in front of the sun, and in the distance she heard the menacing rumbles of approaching thunder. Her thoughts turned to the women who's light had been blocked out just as swiftly. They were women just like her. Sandra and Tammy had both struggled to put their lives back together after their divorces. They had seemed to overcome the emotional downhill ride and were rising to the top again. Both women had started dating and had ventured back out into the working world, taking life by the tail and making themselves happy. Then, in the bat of an eye, they had lost everything -- the joys of watching their children grow up, of growing old, of finding new love.
Lee came to her thoughts. Should she tell him how she felt? Would he accept it? He had been treating her differently lately. It was almost like he wanted their friendship to go forward, but she had kept it at a friendship level. She wasn't his type. She laughed out loud as her swing went higher. Who was she kidding? She was scared to let her heart go. So much had gone wrong when it came to the men in her life. First, her father had died and left her alone, and then Joe decided work was his true love. Several men had followed, but none that could fill the void in her heart. She had almost given up on finding that special someone, until the morning she was given a package, and had been told to give it to the man in the red hat. She had known the first moment she had looked into his pleading eyes that Lee could easily fill her heart and soul, but did she have the guts to try?
She was awakened from her thoughts by the laughter and chatter of the children being released from the school. She dragged her feet in the dusty ground and stopped the swing. She looked one last time at the dark sky. The clouds had consumed the sun except for the few rays that pushed their way through. The sun was fighting for its time in the sky; perhaps she should throw caution to the wind and break through her own clouds of doubt. She jumped out of the swing and headed to find her son, as the first drops of rain began to fall.
Lee watched as the paramedics put the disfigured body into the black bag. "This is getting old real quick." Manny walked up behind Lee.
"Yeah. I feel like we are just spinning our wheels. There has to be something here that we just aren't seeing."
"Well, he did change things this time by leaving a witness. The girl said she was watching the 'The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson' on television, and heard the front door open. She went to look because her mother was in bed. When she reached the door, someone put a hand over her mouth and she wasn't able to move. She was blindfolded, gagged, handcuffed, and thrown in the closet. She could hear what was going on with her mom," Manny said, sighing.
"God, I couldn't even imagine what that child went through hearing her mother being tortured like that." Lee closed his eyes to the image.
"Yeah." Manny looked to the ground and shuffled his feet.
"Anyway, the sitter came by this morning to take care of her while her mom went to work. The sitter found her in the closet and called the police. The girl said she heard a lot of screaming, but she couldn't hear much of what was said. This psycho is a real professional at this stuff. He takes pains to ensure that he won't be identified."
"Same here, Lee." Manny went back to the crime scene.
Lee walked into the busy bullpen, heading for Billy's office. "If you're going to see Billy, you might want to wait till the FBI gets out of there," Francine said, giving Lee's arm a slight tug.
"FBI?"
"Yeah, they showed up about an hour ago. They were demanding to know why we had the files on one of their cases, and what we knew."
"Which case?" Lee asked, straining to see who was in the office.
"The serial murders."
"Wonderful," Lee said, rolling up his sleeves.
"Yeah, that's what Billy said when he saw them coming through the door. I wonder why they are so testy about us being involved?" Francine asked, keeping pace with Lee.
"Who knows with them? I just hope I don't have to work with them," Lee said, entering Billy's office.
As Lee entered, all eyes turned towards him. "Mr. Stetson, I'm glad you decided to join us," Dale Jacobs greeted him, with just a hint of sarcasm.
Lee nodded at the FBI man. He knew him all too well. He was a 'get the job done no matter what it took or who it hurt' kind of guy. The last dealing he had with him cost the lives of three good agents. "Billy, I need to speak with you," Lee said, firmly.
"Lee, Jacobs would like to know what we have on the murders that have taken place recently?"
Lee raised his eyebrows and gave Jacobs a fake smile. "Which ones?"
"Don't get smart with me, Scarecrow. You know exactly what I'm talking about," Jacobs said, moving to stand between Lee and Billy.
"You never have been much on small talk, have you Jacobs," Lee said, nonchalantly taking a seat.
"I know that Smyth put you on this case. He rattled a few cages and got the 302 files released to him. What I want to know is what you have been able to find out, and I want to know right now!" Jacobs said, his voice rising as he moved in front Lee.
"Why is the FBI so touchy about us investigating the murder of one of our own?" Lee asked, his eyes narrowing into angry slits.
"We are always involved in serial killings, Scarecrow. Especially in this case, I want to know what you know," Jacobs said, turning to Billy for support with Lee.
"We don't know much more than what is in the files, Jacobs." Billy added, realizing that this situation was slowly getting out of hand.
Lee's patience was at the end of its rope. He rose from his seat and slowly walked up to Jacobs. He could feel his jaw muscles tighten as he struggled for control of his anger. "Why don't the two of you work on this together? Two heads are better than one," Billy said, trying to defuse the bomb that was soon to blow.
"No way in hell, Billy. I'm not working with him," Lee turned his attention to Billy.
"You're no joy to work with either, Scarecrow. Maybe Billy has a point. At least I will know what is going on," Jacobs said with sly smile, allowing his anger to subside a little.
Lee looked at Billy for help, and received only a warning look. He walked away from Jacobs and took a seat on the couch. "Well, what bright ideas have you boys come up with?" Lee asked, looking at Jacobs.
Jacobs didn't respond, instead he looked out into the bullpen. "Just what I thought, you have nothing either," Lee grumbled.
"Well, when you come up with something let me know. Until then, I have work to do." Lee rose from his seat and left the office.
"You make sure that I get a report of any progress you get, Melrose," Jacobs said, as he stormed out of the office behind Lee.
Lee headed to the Q-Bureau to make a few calls and pull in a few favors. He wanted to see why the FBI had taken such a great interest in these murders. The FBI routinely got involved in such things, but they usually accepted aide from agencies without any argument. As Lee exited the elevator into the main lobby, Mrs. Marsten held up a note for him. "Mr. Stetson, you had a call come in a little while ago.
"Thanks, Mrs. Marsten," Lee accepted the note and headed for his office.
As Lee entered his office, he found his chair occupied by Dr. Smyth. "Hickory dickory dock, the mouse ran up the clock, the clock struck twelve, the mouse ran down, hickory dickory dock."
"Smyth, I'm not in the mood for your word games," Lee said, harshly.
"Midnight is approaching, Scarecrow. It seems to be our man's time to prey on women," Smyth said, lighting his cigarette.
Lee narrowed his eyes at Smyth. "Did you know the FBI is involved?"
"They usually are involved in serial murders," Smyth said indifferently.
"Yeah, but why are they hot after us for information?" Lee paced in front of his superior.
"That's why I put you on this, Scarecrow. When I questioned them about helping after the death of Nicole, I received a cool response. So I dug a little deeper and was told to mind my own business. I don't like being denied information," Smyth snarled, as he rolled his cigarette holder between his fingers.
Lee knew all to well what Smyth was capable of when he wanted something.
"So, I shook a few cages, got the reports I wanted, and decided that we would do our own investigation." Smyth explained, as his eyes narrowed, and followed Lee's pacing.
"It would have been nice to have been told this, before I was confronted by Jacobs a few minutes ago," Lee snapped, as he continued to pace in front of the desk.
"I didn't think it would matter. He can do his thing and we can do ours." Smyth exhaled a puff of smoke, and watched it rise to the ceiling.
"It doesn't sound like they have much more than we do?"
"I have my little helpers doing a little digging into what they have, Scarecrow. When I find out, you will be the first to know," Smyth said, as he rose from his chair.
"Sure." Lee was growing impatient with Smyth.
"I wasn't kidding about the clock ticking. Midnight is approaching, and I have a feeling that this bastard will make another run tonight. Don't you?"
"Yeah," Lee said, glancing at his hand and realized he still had not read his note.
Lee opened the message and saw it was from Lana. She was a member of his Civilian information network. She wanted Lee to meet her at the park at seven o'clock. She wanted to tell him something she had overheard during one of her client's massages. Lee shoved the note in his pocket and headed out the door. He had about an hour before his meeting and decided a quick trip to the King household was due.
He had just started to leave the office when Francine came in the door. "Lee, I'm glad I caught you before you left."
"What is it Francine?" Lee asked, impatiently.
"The trace you wanted on Amanda's phone came to a dead end."
"Bad choice of words, Francine," Lee growled.
"Sorry, I meant that it was made from a payphone at a local grocery store."
"Thanks anyway, Francine." Lee said, exiting the office to go to Amanda's.
Amanda stood in her den, her arms full of straw, trying not to laugh at the sight before her. Phillip was trying to shove straw in his in costume sleeves. "Mom, don't laugh. I think it makes it look real," Phillip said, giving his mother a serious look.
"You're right Sweetheart," Amanda tried to hide the wide smile that crossed her face. She had an image of Lee standing there dressed as a Scarecrow. He would love to see this, she thought. She glanced at the kitchen window just in time to see Lee's astonished face.
She quickly hid her smile and turned to Phillip. "Sweetheart, why don't you go upstairs and find some duct tape. I think maybe we can tape some of this to the inside of your sleeves and it will stay."
"Yeah!" Phillip exclaimed, as he raced upstairs to find it.
Amanda laid the straw on the counter and walked out the back door to meet the bewildered Lee.
"Amanda, is that Phillip in a Scarecrow costume!?!" Lee's eyes widened, as he tried to peek back into the house.
"Yeah, cute isn't he," Amanda smiled mischievously at Lee.
Lee turned his bemused expression to Amanda. "I don't know if cute is the word I would use. What possessed him to dress as a Scarecrow?"
"Why not?" Amanda said, trying to keep a straight face.
"Well, it just took me by surprise. Did you miss me and decide you needed a second Scarecrow around?" Lee asked, as a sly smile spread across his features.
"Phillip read the 'Wizard of Oz' and was fascinated by the character of the Scarecrow. I guess I can understand where he is coming from," Amanda said, absently straightening his tie.
Lee placed his hand over hers where she touched him. Their eyes locked as he lowered his lips to hers. "Mom, I can't find the tape. Jamie must have hidden it. Where are you?" Phillip yelled, from the den.
Amanda jumped at the sound of Phillip's voice, causing Lee's lips brushed her cheek. "I'll be there in just a minute," Amanda said, as she returned her attention back to Lee.
Lee touched her cheek where his lips had brushed
Amanda looked at his twinkling eyes. "I guess I had better get back inside. Phillip and I are going to have to leave for his dance before to long," Amanda said, looking into his hazel eyes.
"Yeah. I just stopped by to see how you were doing. I have to meet one of my informants in a little while." Lee slowly removed his hand from her cheek and started to leave.
"Lee. . .," Amanda quietly said, placing her hand on his arm.
"Hmmm. . ." Lee replied, stopping.
"Mom, I found it," Phillip yelled.
"Thank you." She placed a kiss on his cheek, and then went back inside to finish helping her son.
Lee walked slowly back to his car, replaying the scene in his mind. Amanda had not pulled back from his intended kiss. Had he actually seen disappointment flash in her eyes when they were interrupted? This was something he was going to have to investigate further. A devious smile crossed his face as got in his car and sped off to meet Lana.
"What is it, Lana?" Lee asked, as he sat across her on the picnic bench.
"I overheard one of my Russian clients talking on the phone while I gave him his massage."
"And?"
"He said something about the murders in Moscow had stopped, but women are turning up dead in the same manner here in the U.S. Then he went on to explain he was glad that this man had left mother Russia and turned his plague on someone else. I have heard about the women being savagely murdered. Do you think there is a connection?" Lana asked.
"I'm not sure, but you can be damned sure I'm going to find out. Thanks Lana," Lee said, before sprinting off to his car.
Amanda and Phillip arrived at the dance a few minutes late. They met Nick and Sergei at the gym entrance.
"You are late, Amanda? Where have you been?" Nick asked, in a low hiss.
Amanda looked at his angry expression. Something was different about Nick tonight. It was the same darkness that had crossed his features at lunch. "Sorry, we ran into some heavy traffic."
Not satisfied with her answer, he asked, "You weren't busy with your boyfriend were you?"
She didn't answer him. Instead, she turned her attentions to the children. "Phillip, why don't you and Sergei go on in. Dr. Vkhin and I will mingle with the parents."
"Great, Mom. Come on, Sergei." Phillip was eager to get started with the festivities.
Nick noticed the use of his proper name and decided to back off for a little while. "I'm sorry, Amanda. I was just concerned for your safety with all that has happened."
"That's all right, Nick," Amanda said, still seeing the darkness that had crept into his eyes.
"Why don't we try some punch? You did a wonderful job on the decoration, Amanda," Nick said, placing his hand on the small of her back.
"Thank you, Nick. Why don't we join the Martins over there?" she asked, nodding towards the other side of the gym. Her instincts told her that something was up with this man, and she didn't want to be alone with him.
"Billy, I need a background check on every Russian immigrant, defector, or for that matter any Russian that has entered the U.S. in the past six months," Lee demanded, as he burst into Billy's office.
"Slow down, Scarecrow. What are you talking about?" Billy asked, looking up from his desk.
"Yes, I would love to know," Smyth said, as he appeared like a phantom form the shadowy corner.
"I just talked to a member of my family and she informed me that similar of murders have occurred in Moscow recently. Then they suddenly stopped and now have started here," Lee explained, impatiently pacing in front of Billy's desk.
"Don't just sit there, Billy. Get the man what he needs. I don't care if it takes every agent in this building to do it. I want it done yesterday." Smyth exhaled a puff of smoke.
Amanda drank her punch and watched the children enjoy the festivities. The evening had gone well so far. She had visited with other parents and Nick had tagged along not saying much.
"I guess it's about time for me to go get Phillip and head over to Joey's for their sleepover," Amanda said, looking at Nick.
"I need to get Sergei as well. He was invited today. He is very excited," Nick placed his hand on her back.
Amanda stiffened at his touch. She looked up to see the darkness had returned to his features. She quickly found Phillip and was ready to leave. "Perhaps I could walk you to your car, Amanda." Nick pulled her close, and hissed in her ear.
"We'll be fine, thanks anyway." Amanda withdrew from his hold, and gave him a weak smile.
"I would prefer if you would let me escort you. After the murder today, I would feel safer knowing that you were not alone." Nick looked intently at her.
His eyes took Amanda's breath away. They were so empty and yet so full of shadows. "When did you hear about the murder?" Amanda motioned for Phillip to head towards the car.
"It was on television this afternoon," Nick casually replied, as he placed his arm around her waist.
"Oh, well I guess we had better go." Amanda pulled away from Nick's touch and quickly headed for her vehicle.
"Amanda?" Nick said, as they reached the car.
"Yes." She turned to face him.
"Would you do me the honor of joining me tomorrow night? I have been asked to attend a small gathering at my embassy," Nick asked, as a small smile had spread across his face.
Amanda looked at Nick with a puzzled expression. His features had turned gentle and his eyes warm. "Call me tomorrow morning, Nick. I'm really tired tonight."
"Until later, my dear."
Chapter 6
A few hours later, Billy and Lee were pouring over stacks of files in Billy's office while Jacobs wore the carpet out pacing. "Shit, these things go on forever. No wonder we stay so damn busy." Lee threw the file he was reading onto the mounting stack.
"Let's not throw stones, Scarecrow. What else do we have to go on?" Jacobs asked, with a small sneer plied across his lips.
"If you had been up front with us to start with, maybe a lot more." Lee hissed, as he rose from his seat.
"Look, Stetson. If one of your own was suspected in this type of thing, you wouldn't be so easy to release information either." Jacobs spat back.
"But you were wrong about Conner's being the killer, you spent hours of man power trying to catch him. All the while, three other women were killed." Lee stood in front of Jacobs.
"I admitted we were wrong. He just fit the profile we had going at the time. We found his body last night, and the coroner placed his time of death six days ago. It looks like he took his own life because we suspected him of killing his ex-wife." Jacobs hung his head, and shuffled his feet.
"It would have been nice if you had let us in on that little tidbit. If we had been working together, we might have figured out earlier that he wasn't responsible. We possibly could have saved his life, as well as the three other women." Lee towered of Jacobs.
"We need to concentrate on what we have to go on now, and stop crying over spilt milk." Jacobs shouted.
"I agree, Scarecrow." Billy stood from behind his desk, giving his agent a 'back off' look.
Just then, Amanda knocked at the door and entered. "Hello Mr. Melrose, Lee."
"Who is she?" Jacobs asked, staring at Amanda.
"She's my partner. Amanda, this is Special Agent Dale Jacobs. Jacobs, this is Amanda King." Lee made the introductions coming up to stand behind her. "He is with the FBI," Lee added with a bit of frustration in his voice.
"Nice to meet you, Mr. Jacobs." Amanda extended her hand to shake his.
"Your taste is improving, Scarecrow." Jacobs took her hand and gave it a slight kiss.
Amanda blushed and turned to Lee. "If this is a bad time, I can come back," Amanda informed Lee.
"No it's not. I received some information from Lana this evening, and we are trying to put the pieces together." Lee shook his head, as he gave Jacobs a look of disgust.
"What did you find out?" Amanda eagerly asked.
"There have been similar murders in Moscow. They stopped there a few weeks ago and seemed to have started up again here. We are going through the files. . ." Lee stopped as he noticed Amanda's face pale.
"Are you okay?" Lee asked, watching her slowly take a seat on the couch.
Amanda looked to Lee, Billy, and then Jacobs. "I think I know who it is." She swallowed the lump in her throat, and tried to regain control of her voice.
"Who?" All three men asked. Lee went to sit beside her.
"Nick! He knew about the murder today." Amanda looked at Lee.
"What is she talking about, Scarecrow? A lot of people know about it now that the media has gotten involved." Jacobs asked, giving Amanda a doubtful look.
"Amanda, what makes you sure?" Lee asked, ignoring Jacobs.
"It all fits, Lee. He told me he was from Moscow. Then he told me about his wife being dead. He seemed so angry about it and then he told me about the murder today. He said he watched saw it on television, but Lee, he doesn't even have a television. There is just something about his eyes. They are so cold and evil at times. It has to be him, Lee. I can feel it," Amanda explained, her eyes glistening with tears.
"Billy, we need to get a team to his house now and search it!" Lee insisted.
"We can't do that, Scarecrow, not just on one woman's word about having a gut feeling, and the fact the man doesn't have a television. It's not enough evidence for probable cause," Jacobs said, smartly.
Lee stood and walked over to Jacobs. "You listen to me. She has more instincts in her little finger than you do in your whole body. I have no doubt that she is right." Lee began to shout.
Billy parted the two men. "He is right, Lee. We can't go in and pull him from his home. All we could do is bring him in for questioning and then he would know that we suspect him. He would be out in an hour at the max," Billy explained, trying to calm Lee down.
"So, what do we do? Wait around for him to pick out some other helpless woman?" Lee threw his arms in the air.
"I have an idea," Amanda quietly said.
Lee looked at Amanda's determined face and knew immediately what was going through her mind. "Oh no, you don't, Amanda King. It is way too dangerous."
"What?" Jacobs asked, turning to Amanda.
"Nick asked me out for tomorrow night to the Soviet Embassy for a gathering. I could go with him and ask a few questions?" Amanda said, looking at Billy.
"No, no, no, no, no." Lee shook stood before her and shook his head.
"Lee, it's like you said, I fit his victims' profile and I am probably on his list of women to rid the world of anyway. The key will be that I will know about his intentions and won't be caught off-guard. I will have you and the agency to watch after me," Amanda said, as she stood with her hands on her hips.
"It may be our only opportunity." Billy looked at Lee.
"We can wire her and put a tracking device in her purse, Scarecrow. She would be safe," Jacobs said.
"I don't like it. Amanda, this man is a maniac. Do you remember what those poor women's bodies looked like? This man shows no mercy. He tortures, rapes, and then slits their wrists so they die a slow and painful death, Amanda!" Lee exclaimed, trying to make her understand the danger.
"I was there, Lee. I saw. I can't stand by and let any more women suffer at this man's hands." Amanda placed her hand on his arm. "I knew two of his previous victims, Lee. Come to think of it, I saw Nick sitting with Tammy at the last PTA meeting. If he was the one who killed them, I want to be the one to help bring him to justice."
"No, Amanda!"
"Lee.. ." Amanda said, as she looked into his eyes.
"She'll be safe, Scarecrow," Jacobs emphasized.
"Jacobs, I know how you operate things. I'm not sure if she would be safe or not." Lee tore his eyes away from Amanda and gave Jacobs an angry glare.
Knowing that she had to do this Amanda added, "You could get an invitation to go. You and Francine could be there. I promise if anything starts to look dangerous, I'll leave."
Lee started to pace the room. "It's our best shot, Scarecrow. Didn't you say she was your partner? She should be used to this type of work." Jacobs scoffed at Lee.
"Amanda, are you sure you want to do this?" Lee asked, with pleading eyes.
"Yes," Amanda said, firmly.
"All right. If we are going to do this, I want it done my way. We have to have her wired, and I want a team at that embassy. Francine and I will be inside, to keep an eye on them. At no time do I want her alone with this man," Lee said, as he looked from Billy to Jacobs.
All four sat down and made plans for the next day's events. "It's getting pretty late, I think I'll head home," Amanda said with a yawn.
"Not by yourself!" Lee said, shooting her a shocked look.
"Lee, the Agency van is out in front of my house. If I don't go home, he might suspect something is up." Amanda said, trying to reassure Lee.
"I don't think that's enough. If you insist on going home, I'm going with you," Lee stated, firmly.
"I don't think. . ." Amanda started to refuse.
"Lee is right, Amanda. You shouldn't be in your house alone." Billy backed Lee up.
"Well, now that's settled. I can follow you home and slip in the back door once you're in." Lee gave Amanda a triumphant smile.
"Fine." Amanda gave into the men's request.
"Well, I guess I should be heading out too. I'll meet all of you here in the morning to go over the final details. Can you handle getting the invitation, Melrose?" Jacobs asked, as he headed for the door.
"Yeah, I'll line up Francine, and the other agents we'll need for tomorrow in the morning. I need to call Smyth and let him know the details." Billy picked up the phone and dialed his superior.
Lee checked with the Agency boys out front before heading into Amanda's house. Before he could knock or pick the lock, Amanda was opening the door. "Amanda, you really shouldn't open that door until you knew it was me out here," Lee gave her a displeased look.
"Lee, I'm tired. I'm going upstairs to change for bed. Just make yourself at home," Amanda ignored his scolding.
Lee entered the house and started to raid her refrigerator. As he looked into her refrigerator, his eyes fell upon a pot of left over Beef Wellington. Careful not to spill the contents of the container, he pulled it from the refrigerator, and put it on the stove to heat. Lee then walked to the family room, grabbed the remote, and flopped on the couch.
Amanda prepared for bed quickly and went down to see if Lee needed anything before she turned in for the night. "Lee, is there anything you need before I go to bed?"
Lee looked at her and said nothing. She had changed into a pair of red flannel pajamas. She had removed the makeup from her face and brushed her hair out. He never could have imagined a woman could look so sexy in simple pajamas. A smile crossed his lips as he continued to stare silently.
"Lee, did you hear me?" Amanda asked.
"Yes, I'm fine, Amanda. I'll see you in the morning," Lee turned his gaze back to the television.
"Lee, you could stay in one of the boys rooms tonight. I'm sure it would be more comfortable than the couch." Amanda took a seat beside him.
'Does she know what she is doing to me?' Lee thought, as he looked into her eyes.
"Lee, are you listening to me?" Amanda placed her hand on his leg to get his attention.
"I'm sorry Amanda, I guess I'm just thinking about tomorrow." Lee placed his hand on hers.
"Do you want to sleep in one of the boys' room?"
'No, I would rather sleep with you.' Lee thought. "No, I'll stay down here. That way I can hear what goes on."
"What's that burning?" Amanda gasped, as she ran to the stove.
"I forgot I had that on," Lee followed her.
"Oh, my gosh," Amanda gasped, as she grabbed the hot handle.
"Amanda! Did you burn yourself?" Lee pulled her to the sink to run cold water over her hand.
"I think it's all right, Lee." Amanda said quietly, as her mind started to race with the feel of his body pressed against her back.
"Let me see," Lee turned her around to inspect her hand.
Lee took her hand in his and began his inspection. Not sure of her own emotions, Amanda started to pull back, but Lee only pulled her closer. They stood quietly for a moment, just looking into one another's eyes. "Lee. . ."
"Shhh..." Lee placed his hand on her cheek. He gently lowered his face to hers, and captured her lips with his.
She felt him gently probe her lips with his tongue for entrance. Throwing all caution to the wind, she obediently opened and reveled in the sensations that flowed through her body. Lee sensed her reaction and wondered why he had ever doubted taking this step before.
Pulling back, he looked into her shining eyes. "Amanda. . ."
"Shhh. . ." Amanda wrapped her arms around his neck, and pulled him back to her for another lingering kiss. A slight moan escaped her lips, as a knock came at the front door.
Chapter 7
Reluctantly, they pulled away from each other. Lee pulled out his gun and followed her to the door.
"Hello, Amanda," Billy said, as Amanda opened the door.
"Billy, what are you doing here?" Lee placed his gun back in his holster.
"There has been another murder," Billy said grimly, as he entered the house.
"Who?!?" Amanda asked.
"Sarah Baker." Billy removed his hat.
"No! You have to be wrong, Sir. She has a son the same age as Phillip. He needs her," she cried, walking away from Billy and Lee. Amanda went into the kitchen to clean up the mess, trying to get her mind off of what she had just been told. She grabbed a towel and picked up the burned pot. She threw it in the sink with all the anger she had built up inside.
"I'll be back in a minute, Billy," Lee said, as he heard the loud crash of metal from the kitchen.
"Amanda. . ." Lee took her in his arms.
"It just can't be happening again, Lee," Amanda cried into his chest.
"I'm sorry," was all Lee could get out. He wished there was more he could do or say to comfort her. This however, was not the time or the place.
"This is just too dangerous, Amanda. We have to get you out of here, before he. . ." Lee began.
"No! I want to help catch him. I'm the only one who can do it," Amanda interrupted him with even more determination in her voice than she had used in Billy's office only hours before.
"Lee, I need you to go with me to the crime scene. I picked up Francine on the way over. She is outside with the agency van now. I figured she could stay with Amanda while we go," Billy said, as he entered the kitchen.
"Can't it wait till morning, Billy?" Lee asked, not wanting to leave her. He wanted to be the one to comfort and give her the attention she needed right now.
"No, this one is different." Billy looked at Lee sternly. He did not want to discuss the situation in front of Amanda.
Lee noticed the change in Billy's voice and decided perhaps he should go and see what was happening. "Amanda, will you be alright?" Lee gently wiped the single tear away that flowed down her cheek.
"Yes. Tell Francine to make herself at home," she whispered. She left the two men alone as she headed for her bedroom.
Lee watched her go up the stairs. He ran his hand through his hair as he grabbed his jacket and followed Billy out the door. "Francine, Amanda has already gone to bed. Make sure you lock up behind us," Lee said, as he met the willowy blonde at the door.
"I will, Lee," Francine replied, with a roll of her eyes.
"I mean it, Francine. He could come here anytime. I want you to keep your eyes open," Lee emphasized each word.
"Lee, It's not like I haven't done this before. Go on, we'll be fine." Francine waved him out the door.
"Lock that door and don't answer it for anyone except me or Billy." Lee pointed to the deadbolt.
"Sure, Lee," Francine answered, as she closed the door behind her.
Lee waited to hear the deadbolt click and followed Billy to the car.
"Out with it, Billy. What's wrong?" Lee asked, as they proceeded to the crime scene.
"The Baker woman's son is dead." Billy stated, matter-of-factly.
"What!?!" Lee turned his shocked eyes to Billy.
"They found his body in his room. His neck was broken," Billy quietly added.
"Oh my, God," Lee whispered, as he looked out the window at the full moon peering through the clouded sky.
"Yeah. I didn't think we should tell Amanda."
"You're right, Billy. I don't think she could handle it right now. Is there anything else?" Lee turned his attention back to his boss.
"We're here, Lee. Let's go on in," Billy opened the door and left the car.
Lee and Billy walked into the home to find Jacobs and Manny already there. "This one is a real sight to see, Scarecrow," Jacobs shook his head.
"What?" Lee looked around the front entrance.
"Notice anything different?" Manny asked.
"There are no blood trails," Lee observed, as he looked over to Manny.
"Follow me," Manny replied, as he walked up the steps to the victim's bedroom.
Lee's eyes fell upon a gruesome scene. The woman had been murdered in the same fashion as all the others, but the floor by the bed was drenched in pools of blood. "He was apparently interrupted before he was able to finish. Her boyfriend came over after a party tonight, and found them," Jacobs explained, as he went over to the bed to look at the victim.
"Where's the boy's body?" Lee asked.
"He's in his bedroom, down the hall," Manny replied, as he started in that direction.
Lee expected to see the same brutality used on the boy, but to his surprise he had not been. The boy's body had been placed on the bed and his arms folded across his chest. The covers of the bed had been placed over the lower half of his body and tucked around him. "This doesn't make any sense, Manny," Lee stood over the boy's bed.
"It didn't to us either. Unless, he hadn't planned on killing the kid," Manny replied.
"Do you think it was an accident? That the kid walked in on him?" Billy joined Lee at the bedside.
"Well, the kid died of a broken neck. There is evidence of a struggle in the hall. Maybe the kid fell down the steps in a struggle," Jacobs surmised.
"This doesn't fit his pattern at all. The notes he left before said he was doing this to help the children." Lee walked away from the boy's body.
"As sick as this man is, who knows, Lee," Manny sighed, as he walked over to join Lee at the door.
"Did he leave a note this time?" Billy asked as he joined them.
Jacobs replied as he walked past them out into the hall. "Yeah, it's in the mothers room on the closet door."
Lee shoved his hands in his pockets and followed.
Lee swallowed the bile he felt coming up in his throat, as he looked at the woman's body again. He closed his mind to the image and began to look for the note. He hoped that it would be something to possibly link this to Nick, so Amanda would not have to go near the man.
Manny read the message aloud, "I have cleansed the world of one more traitorous woman. Let it be known that the child died an innocent and will rest peacefully."
Lee looked down the hall towards the boy's bedroom as Manny read. It could have very easily been Amanda and Phillip's bodies he saw before his eyes. He shook his head and went to look around the house for more evidence, while the others reviewed the murder scene.
Billy, Lee, Manny, and Jacobs stayed at the scene until the bodies were taken to the morgue. Billy drove Lee back to Amanda's house and dropped him off. Lee went to the back of the house and knocked for Francine to let him in. "Hi, Lee," Francine said, with a yawn.
"Hey. Is Amanda still asleep?" Lee looked up the steps to see if her bedroom light was on.
"I think so. I haven't heard a peep. Do you want me to stay?" Francine shrugged her shoulders.
"No. I'll be fine. You need to go home and get some rest for tomorrow night's party," Lee said with a crooked smile.
"Oh yeah, right. We're going to have fun at this one," Francine added with a smirk. She grabbed her coat and headed out the door.
Lee walked up the steps to Amanda's bedroom. She heard him approach and sat up in bed. "Lee, is that you?"
"Yeah," Lee went to sit beside her on the bed.
"What happened?" Amanda asked, as she turned the lamp on beside her bed.
"The same as before," Lee lied, not wanting her to know about the young boy's death. She had too much to deal with right now without adding that.
Lee looked at her distraught face. "Can't sleep?" He brushed her bangs from her forehead.
"No." Amanda leaned against him.
"Want me to sit with you for awhile?" Lee pulled her into his arms.
"Mmm. . . that may be just what the doctor ordered." Amanda relaxed against him.
Lee leaned against the back of the bed, and drew her head to his chest. He remained with her until he could hear her even breathing of sleep. He gently lowered her head on the pillow, and brushed her forehead with his lips. He rose and went downstairs to catch a few winks, as he knew he would need his rest for tomorrow.
Amanda awoke to the bright streaks of morning sunshine that flowed through her window. She looked with disappointment for the strong body that had helped her fall asleep. She smiled as she touched the place on the bed where he had been when held and comforted her. She remembered the passionate kiss they had shared before Billy arrived. Then her thoughts saddened, remembering the news Billy had brought. Another woman had died at Nick's hands. She steeled her mind of the tasks ahead, as she put on her robe. She was going to help put the man who had started all of this madness.
Amanda walked down her steps to the smell of fresh coffee brewing. As she entered her kitchen, she smiled softly at the sight of Lee sitting at her counter, reading the paper, and drinking his morning coffee. She let herself imagine what it would be like to find him in her home every morning. Amanda's smile widened, with the idea of him being there on a permanent basis.
Lee felt her eyes watching him. "Good morning, Amanda."
"Good morning, Lee," Amanda replied, as she went to make herself a cup of coffee.
"What's the big smile about?" Lee teased.
"Just thinking."
"About what?" Lee asked as a mischievous smile crossed his face.
"'Need to know', Scarecrow" Amanda teased back. She finished pouring her coffee and took a seat at the counter with him.
Lee was glad to see that her mood had improved from the night before. "Ah, come on, you can tell me."
"Nope, my lips are sealed," retorted Amanda, as she took a big swallow of coffee to cover up her smile.
"Want to play twenty questions this morning, huh?" Lee asked, scooting his chair closer to her.
Amanda smiled at his playfulness allowing her mind to relax. She glanced down at the paper and saw a picture of Sarah and her son on the front page. She picked up the paper and began to read. "Lee, you didn't tell me Tommy was killed too," she exclaimed.
Lee grimaced at her words. He hadn't wanted her to find out, at least not yet. "I didn't want you to get any more upset than you already were," Lee explained.
"Lee, I know you want to protect me from all of this, but you can't," Amanda whispered, as tears began to fall down her cheeks.
Lee stood and took her in his arms. "Amanda, I don't want you to do this tonight. That could have been you and Phillip last night." Lee whispered into her hair, trying to make her understand.
"I can't let him keep doing this, not when there is the possibility that I can stop him."
Lee started to protest when the phone rang. He reached to answer it. "Stetson here."
"May I speak to Amanda King," an angry Russian asked.
Lee placed his hand over the phone. "It's him."
Amanda took the phone from Lee with shaking hands. "Hello."
"Amanda, who answered the phone?" Nick asked, with resentment in his voice.
"That was Lee Stetson. I work with him at IFF. He's here to give me a ride to work this morning. My car quit on me again," Amanda explained, trying to keep her voice from quivering.
"I see. Well, I was calling to see if we were still on for tonight," Nick asked, much calmer.
"Yes, most certainly. What time are you going to pick me up?"
"At 7 o'clock this evening."
"I'll be ready then," Amanda replied, before she hung up the phone.
Lee had watched the conversation with worry flowing through his veins. "What did he say?" he asked.
"He'll be here at 7 o'clock this evening to pick me up."
"We have a lot to do between now and then," Lee replied, as he mentally thought of the day's events.
"I'm going upstairs to get dressed," Amanda turned and left the kitchen.
"Amanda."
"Yes," She replied, turning back to face him.
"Everything will turn out fine." Lee tried to reassure himself by reassuring her.
"I know." Amanda gave a weak smile and headed up the stairs.
"Did you hear that? Her lover answered the phone."
"She said she works with him."
"How many times do I have to tell you that these women are compulsive about lying? Maybe she wants the two of you?"
"I think you are making this all up."
"We will see. We will see."
Billy, Jacobs, Lee, Francine, and Amanda all sat in Billy's office. They had been going over the plans for the evening for hours. Everything was a go. They just had to wait for Nick to pick Amanda up.
"I've got your stuff, Mrs. King," Leatherneck entered carrying her wire and tracking device.
Lee stood to ensure that he had brought the proper equipment.
Leatherneck gave Lee a curious look and handed them over to him. He then proceeded to take a seat beside Amanda. "Look, Mrs. King, all you have to do is wear this ruby necklace and we will be able to pick up your conversation within a five mile radius. The tracking device also works within a five mile radius. You can put it in your purse or pin it to your clothes."
Amanda smiled at him and nodded in understanding. "All right, folks, I think it is time we all head out and get a little rest before this thing swings into action. Francine, I want you and Lee at the social before 7:30. That way he won't notice you enter and you can mingle with the crowd. Jacobs, you and I can wait at Amanda's house tonight until Nick picks her up. Then we can follow in the van monitoring his actions," Billy explained.
"Wait a minute, Billy. I should be at the house with her. What if he tries something before she gets to the party? Francine and I will be at the damn social and not know what the hell is going on." Lee paced back and forth in front of Billy.
"Lee, Leatherneck is going to rig us all up with listening devices. You will know what is going on as it happens," Billy tried to assure him.
Amanda watched the two men argue, as Leatherneck held out the devices she was to wear. She thanked him with a silent nod and watched him leave the tense room to prepare the other items needed for the night.
Lee looked at Billy's stern expression and nodded. He then turned to Amanda and held out his hand. She stood and placed her hand in his as they left the office.
Jacobs looked out Billy's office window as he watched Lee and Amanda exit the bullpen. "There is more than just a partnership there, Billy."
Billy ignored Jacobs' comment and picked up the phone to double check that the security team was in place outside of the embassy and Amanda's house.
Amanda looked out the passenger window at the busy streets of D.C. She could feel her body shaking in fear and anticipation of the events that were about to occur. Lee glanced at her from the corner of his eye, wondering again how she could have so much determination in her small body. Amanda could feel his watchful eye. She did not turn her gaze from the traffic, but moved her hand to rest on his. Lee wrapped her small hand in his and held it tightly against his leg. They rode in silence, drawing the strength from one another they would need to see the evening through.
As they pulled into Amanda's driveway, they noticed a delivery truck parked by the curb. "Wait here," Lee released her hand and went to investigate.
The delivery boy met Lee at the curb and handed him a floral arrangement of yellow roses. Lee signed for them and motioned for Amanda to go into the house. Lee placed the flowers on the counter and watched as Amanda looked at the card.
"Till tonight," Amanda read aloud.
Lee saw fear flash across her features for only a moment before she smiled at him. "Amanda, you can still back out," Lee pleaded.
"No, it's already 2 o'clock. But I think maybe I need to take a nap before I head out for my evening on the town," Amanda yawned.
Lee knew she was trying to change the subject, but decided not to press her. She had already made up her mind. "Do you think the doctor would want you to have a bedside nurse while you slept?" Lee asked, allowing a sly smile to cross his lips.
"I think he would approve," Amanda laughed softly, as she headed for the stairs.
"I'm going to lock up." Lee watched her go up the staircase, and turned his attention to the downstairs doors and windows.
Amanda curled up in her bed, waiting for Lee. She felt so safe from everything when he was with her.
Lee took the stairs two at a time anxious to keep Amanda company. As he reached her room, he saw her still body resting on the bed. "Amanda?" Lee quietly called.
Amanda's body shifted a little at his voice, but she never responded. He walked over to see her sleeping peacefully. He slipped in beside her, and wrapped his arm around her waist pulling her closer. He allowed his eyes to close and enjoy the intoxicating aroma that flowed from her hair. 'This feels so right. Why did I wait so long?' he wondered as he joined her in sleep.
Lee awoke two hours later to find his arms empty. He looked around the small room trying to focus on where she could be. He was a light sleeper and usually noticed any movement. He stood and stretched his long frame as a warm feeling spread through his body. Perhaps, he had slept so well because of the woman he had held so closely to his body. He smiled at the thought of it happening more often, and went to find Amanda.
Amanda sat at her counter staring at the phone. She wanted to call Phillip, and make sure he was all right, but she didn't want to alert him that something might be wrong. Deciding she really needed to hear his voice, she picked up the receiver and dialed Mrs. Susan Jackson's number.
"Hello, Sue?"
"Hello, Amanda."
"How are you handling the gaggle of boys?"
"They are just being boys. Did you hear about Sarah and Tommy?"
"Yes, I read about it this morning. It was a terrible shock to everyone."
"Well, I was going to call and tell you that we're not going trick or treating in the neighborhood tonight. My husband and I are going to take them to the mall instead. I just don't think it's safe anymore."
"I agree, Susan. I appreciate your thoughtfulness. May I speak to Phillip?"
"Sure, let me go get him."
As Amanda waited for Phillip to come to the phone, she looked up to see Lee watching her from the bottom of the steps. He caught her eye and gave her a warm smile, as he got up to sit beside her at the counter.
"Hey, Mom."
"Hello, Sweetheart. Are you having a good time?"
"Yeah, we're really having a blast. Joey's got all the latest cassette tapes and his mom is going to grill out for us tonight."
"I'm glad you're having a good time. I just wanted to check on you."
"Ah, Mom."
"I love you, Phillip."
"Yeah, Mom. See ya' tomorrow."
"Bye, Phillip."
Amanda hung up the phone and sighed.
"Is Phillip alright?" Lee noticed the concerned look on her face.
"Yes, he's having a blast. It's just that I would have rather taken him in my arms and told him that I loved him, instead of a phone call. I just want to know that he is safe." Amanda placed her hand on his arm affectionately.
"Don't worry about him, Amanda." Lee placed his hand over hers.
"Don't worry about him! I thought you understood?" Amanda pulled her hand from under his and stood to go out the back door.
"Amanda!" Lee followed.
Amanda sat at the picnic table with her head in her hands.
"Amanda, I meant that I pulled in a few favors and I have somebody watching over him. I wouldn't leave him alone," Lee explained as he wrapped his arms around her sobbing body.
"You did?" Amanda looked up to see the love and concern in his eyes.
"Of course, he means a lot to me. Both of your boys do." Lee rubbed her back.
"He does? They do?" Amanda asked, wanting to make sure she understood him.
"You all do," Lee replied, with a gentle kiss to her lips.
Amanda reluctantly pulled away. "I'm sorry, Lee. I didn't mean to blow up at you. I guess my emotions are running away with me."
"Amanda, it's understandable." Lee caressed her cheek with his hand.
Lee and Amanda jumped apart at the sound of Billy clearing his throat. "Is anybody back here?"
"Yeah, Billy we're here," Lee called.
"I knocked on the front door, and didn't get an answer," Billy explained as he tried to hide the smile that was coming to his lips. He had wondered how long it would take Scarecrow to realize what he had right before his eye. He hated he had to interrupt their intimate moment, but the events of the evening wouldn't wait any longer.
"Sorry, Sir," Amanda replied, regaining her composure.
"Lee, it's already 5 o'clock. You really need to get going," Billy joined them at the picnic table.
"Yeah, I know. Is Jacobs here yet?" Lee stood and started to pace.
"He's with the agents in the van going over a few last minute details." Billy watched as Lee wore a path in Amanda's grass.
"Lee calm down. Everything's going to be fine. You just need to go home and get ready." Amanda quietly said.
"That's right, Lee. Go home and change. Then pick up Francine. We can handle things on this end."
Lee stopped his pacing and looked at Billy. "You make sure you do!"
"We will, Lee. Now off with you." Billy started to go into the house to give them a minute alone.
"Amanda, you be careful. If something doesn't feel right, you get out of there." Lee sat beside her and placed his hands on her shoulders.
"Lee, I'll be fine. All of you will be with me, and Leatherneck has got it fixed so you can hear what is going on at all times. What could go wrong?" Amanda traced the worried wrinkles in his forehead with her fingers.
Lee closed his eyes to the images that popped into his head. "Amanda, you promise me."
"Yes, Lee. I promise I'll leave if anything looks like it's going wrong."
Lee bent his head to take her lips to his one last time before leaving. "We have a lot to talk about when all of this is over."
"I look forward to it," Amanda whispered, as she captured his lips again.
Lee stood and helped Amanda up. He watched her go into the house and then headed for his car. 'This was going to be a long night he thought as he drove home to prepare.'
To Be Continued. . .