Author's Note: I've decided to turn this into a CSI: Miami crossover story… so heads up!
Disclaimer: I don't own anyone but Kali and Rosie!
Thankfully it was a slow day at the diner. Jayne, Al, Tammy and I were working and today I was also watching Rose. Determination between Abby and I convinced Carter that we didn't want Rose with a sitter, she could always be with us. So this week was pretty busy for all of us and I had to work the same day as Carter and Abby did but it was okay. Tammy (the cashier) was keeping Rosie beside her and the customers had been admiring my niece all day.
"Kali, here's your order," Al says, handing me two warm meals. I place them on a tray and bring them to the customers, then speed back to the counter and grab my coat. Tammy has Rose and the diaper bag ready to go.
"Al I'm taking my break now," I call, picking up Roselani and scurrying out the door.
It's a gorgeous autumn day and Rosie perks up as we make our way through the park. A perfect red leave falls on us as we pass under its tree, Rosie grabs it and squeals with joy.
"Red! Pretty" she shrieks, waving it like a flag.
"Yes, it's very pretty eh baby?" I comment, glancing at my watch and looking around the park. We come to our usual bench and I glance around. Rose squirms in my arms and I set her down, she totters over to a pile of crisp leaves and falls into them, laughing to herself. Then I see them, holding hands and looking… nervous? They finally reach me, sullen looking.
"Hey," I say casually.
"Hi sweetie," Abby replies, sitting down close to me, Carter picks up Rose and sits by my other side.
"What's wrong?" I ask, my heart picking up its pace.
"Ray called the police yesterday because he hasn't seen Neela for the past three days, and she hasn't been to work. Today there was a lock of her hair covered in blood in her bedroom, with a note. It was from Neela apparently and it was addressed to you," Carter explains, not looking into my eyes.
I stand up, wanting to get away, but a man with shades and red hair has appeared in front of us and addresses me somewhat coldly, "Kali Richardson? Would you come to the station for some questions please?"
I look at Abby and feel my eyes roll back, blackness taking over me before I even hit the ground.
"She's coming to," Carter murmurs.
"Kali, honey it's okay. We need to go with Detective Caine now, I'll come with you," Abby explains, hurrying alongside John, who has me cradled in his arms. I struggle and he sets me down.
"I'm sorry Detective, about that little spell… Yes I'll come to the station," I address the silent man behind us.
"Okay let's go," he escorts Abby and I to his Hummer and we speed off.
"Kali you're hurting me," Abby says gently.
I look down and see that I'm clutching her hand at a death grip.
"Sorry," I release it.