Okay, so it's been challenging writing this chapter as I had a little writers block. I will say that the next couple of chapters will lead to some revelation which might be shocking or not. So to those who have remained reading my story, I sincerely hope I don't disappoint. Just a hint, Monica's identity will come to pass...and everything is not as it seems. Enjoy the read.

Chapter 23

"Did you know a serial killer is defined as someone who commits more than three murders over a period that spans more than one month? For the most part, serial killers commit murder for some sort of psychological benefit." Nikki stated giving Dominic a knowing look.

"I know you are super smart but we mere mortal souls can get along just fine with our detective knowledge." Dominic said, realising that Nikki was probably just pulling his chain, although, he had to admit she sure knew more about serial killers and criminology than anyone he knew. He remembered Helen telling him that she read a lot but something did not add up. He wondered if Nikki actually studied criminology in school as she seemed too knowledgeable for your average person. Though he conceded that Nikki was definitely not your average nobody.

"I reckon you are well equipped and a very smart Detective Inspector but," she said, giving him a slight grin.

"Defining a serial killer is complicated and not exact science," Helen said, breaking the awkward tension between Dominic and Nikki. Although, she was quite amused watching Nikki toy with Dominic psyche. And trying to match Nikki's endless knowledge was sure to drain unsuspecting native Dominic.

"You are quite right Helen. As more research must be devoted to serial murders." Nikki said, as she sat down on her comfy couch, giving Helen a wink.

"Although this definition was established in the United States, the crime is not formally recognized in any legal code." Dominic replied trying to sound convincing in his words.

Nikki smiled, as she knew Dominic was trying to impress her but she did not think any less of him. He was refreshing and he worked well under Helen's guidance not like the slimy fool named Jim Fenner. "There has been considerable debate among criminologists about the proper definition of serial murder. That definition has been faulted but it does not mean that it has any less value."

"I remember reading about the notorious serial murderer Harold Shipman, a British physician who killed at least 215 people from 1973 to 1998." Dominic said.

"Criminologists have distinguished between classic serial murder, which usually involves stalking and is often sexually motivated. Although, most lack an obvious rational motive. Serial murderers are assumed to kill for motives such as sexual compulsion. It is thought to give the murderer a feeling of power—which may or may not be sexual in nature—over their victims, partly because they are perceived as personifications of evil."

"Yes, but personifications of evil is exactly what they are." Dominic said shaking his head.

"Do you think a serial killers are born?" Nikki asked curious.

Dominic thought about it for a moment. "I really don't know the answer to that question but I suspect there are many factors that lead them to kill another human being. But science would suggest serial killers might be born with the gene so I guess I am incline to swing that way."

"I tend to think serial killers are made, not born. They may very well be born psychopaths, or with a susceptibility in that area, in early childhood when they are most vulnerable and learning foundations like empathy, experiencing kindness and cruelty."

"A large distinction that separates serial killers from other murderers are their motives to kill." Dominic replied as Helen watched Nikki and Dominic debate. A small smile formed on her mouth as she watched Nikki. She could not help but watch her lips and felt her heart skip a beat. Instead of giving her insight she watched Nikki explained the ins and outs of serial killers.

"But what does this have to do with our killers?" Dominic exclaimed. "Does it make a difference if they were born or were a product."

"Psycho-killers are not regular murderers. They are only driven by instinct and a desire to kill. Their sexual desires and the need to fulfill their arousing fantasies often drives these individual to murder." Nikki explained. She stretched her legs and leaned back against the couch before speaking again, "Would you like something to drink?"

"I am fine right now, but please continue your thoughts," he wanted to hear Nikki's insights as he knew he could learn valuable information if nothing else.

"Many of them are exceptionally skillful so much so that they are beyond suspicions and thus are difficult to apprehend. Incorrect is the assumption that serial killers walk around carrying a chain saw like in movies. These images are embedded into our minds that these are the characteristics of a murderer when in reality they are masters at disguising their emotions and blend into society. You could say they are magicians of death." Nikki continued saying. "Not to say that the aftermath of serial killers is trivial but the real controversy among theorists lies on how and why serial killers take the step from fantasy to reality. We are all made up of tiny individual genes that make up our personality traits defining who and what we are."

"This is the exact reasons why they are so hard to pinpoint and catch." Helen finally spoke causing Nikki and Dominic to look up. She smiled as she realised she had been quietly watching the scene unfold.

"We are all born with a different genetic make-up but many argue that differences in DNA do not create a psycho-killer. The main focus of many criminologists and psychologists are the origins and the surroundings of these killers childhood. I must point out that a nature-nurture dichotomy is clearly untenable, incorrect, and meaningless. This subject has to be discussed in terms of the continuous and complex interactions between an organism and its environment, and the relevant contributions of both sets of variables in determining the behavior of the organism."

"Okay, clearly you present a good argument but wouldn't that be an easy explanation?" Dominic said. "We could say environment might play a part but you would have to concede that DNA plays a huge part in defining serial killers or psycho-killers."

Nikki shook her head and rolled her eyes. Dominic could be so naïve but it couldn't be helped. "Dominic by boy, there are things you couldn't fathom. There are no monsters within. These are not characteristics of a serial killer who scientists say are born with this gene of aggressiveness."

"How can you be so sure?" He asked curious to Nikki's difference of option.

"Criminologists and social behavioral psychologists argue that childhood experiences during the early stages of life can cause a child to seek comfort through acts of violence such as killing small animals."

"But doesn't your hypothesis suggest they are more likely to be born a killer?" Dominic argued.

"It's true that studies have shown those who were animal abusers were five times more likely to commit acts of violence. The study showed that serial killers in their childhood resort to killing animals because they felt powerless against those who had control over them. They resorted to killing small animals in which they could exert their dominance and power when they couldn't in their own lives." Nikki replied. She understood the many debates in this topic and she found herself arguing with many of her colleagues how psycho-killers are designed. "It certainly represents a turning point. These killers begin to dive into their self- indulgences and are unable to understand how basic empathy that me or you would naturally feel."

"But many of these crimes are premeditated and conceived in their twisted minds. It's easy to perceive them as superficial individuals with no remorse or empathy." Dominic stated, sounding quite observed and Nikki noticed. She knew there was a reason she trusted Dominic and why she thought having him on Helen's department will prove to be a worthy adversary and not just pedestrian as she found most of the DI she came upon.

"Serial killers find comfort in their fantasies and dreams that take them into a realm that only they can control. Understanding how and why serial killers commit such horrific crimes is an important step to stopping the homicidal rampages these psycho-killers go on." Nikki stated.

"So what you are saying in simple terms, the complex nature of a serial killers is not so easy defined." Dominic stated. "So Scientists have it all wrong?"

"Listen, while Scientists believed to be hard evidence, that genetics is the key role in determining who becomes a serial killer unlike criminologists and psychologists who argue that large events such as abuse and abandonment create the foundation in which serial killers grow into sadistic murders. Both arguments are strongly proved but neither are individually the answer to why serial killers exist. Truthfully, I believe that both genetics and cultural upbringings play a part. Nature does not choose what traits we are born with but at the same time these traits cannot be exposed without a mechanism that triggers these individuals to commit these horrific crimes." Nikki said.

"Is this proof evil killers are born not made? Psychopaths' brains 'lack basic wiring that triggers empathy and compassion." Helen responded.

"Don't blame Hannibal Lecter. He can't help being a callous, murdering monster." Nikki laughed.

"What we need is a Clarice Starling," Helen replied, smoldering a look that amused Nikki. "But then why need a fictional character when we have the real thing in you."

"Is that a complement my dear Helen?" Nikki grinned, her eyes fixed on Helen. She had engrossed herself in a debate, realising the look in Helen's eyes bore a reflection of longing. She told herself she would ask Helen to stay over after they are done with Dominic but then was it the right thing to do. She again found herself conflicted with wanted to feel Helen, yet she did not want to be played with as Helen was still confused and giving her mixed signals.

"It could be," she said in a low voice before realising Dominic's presence and quickly changed her demeanor which didn't go unnoticed. Dominic grinned, wondering why he felt something in the air between Helen and Nikki. He wasn't quite certain, but he thought he seen flirtation between the two women.

"I must confess to you, I'm giving serious thought…to eating your wife," Nikki said, grinning as she quoted the character Hannibal Lester.

"I must've watched that movie so many times," Helen confessed, smiling.

"The first principles. Simplicity. Of each particular thing ask: what is it in itself? What is its nature? What does he do, these killers we seek?" Nikki asked.

"He kills young girls..." Dominic replied.

"No. That is incidental. What is the first and principal thing they do? What needs does it serve by killing?" Nikki asked Dominic.

"Anger, um, social acceptance, and, huh, sexual frustrations," Dominic responded, not certain what Nikki was trying to get at.

"Why does he use religion? That does this represent? And how do we begin to unveil the darkness in this heart, Dominic?" Nikki said.

"No. We just... "

"No. We begin by peeling the layers, slowly. We must think like a killer. Ask ourselves what motivates us Dominic? Who wicked the soul then took the innocent and bleed for him?" Dominic forehead wrinkled as he thought about what Nikki was saying. "Look for severe childhood disturbances associated with violence. Our killer wasn't born a criminal, Dominic. He was made one through years of systematic abuse. Our killer hates his own identity, you see, and he thinks that makes him impure and he needs to cleanse his system by killing those he perceive sinful. But his pathology is a thousand times more savage and more terrifying."

"So what you are saying, he hates the very thing inside that he projects towards these young victims. He uses religion to purify the sins within and the only true word is God." Dominic said.

"We catch these killers by getting into their heads, but you also let them into your own." Nikki said.

"But that is a dangerous thing to do," Helen said concerned.

"We must not be afraid to do what is necessary," Nikki smiled, trying to reassure Helen. "I believe this is the only way we are going to catch them."

"I don't like what you are suggesting," Helen said, with a stern look.

"No, Helen," Dominic interjected. "I think Nikki is right. If we are to stop these killings we need to put ourselves out there and get into their heads."

Nikki sensing Helen's obvious concern decided to get Dominic attention. "Basically Dominic, psychopaths displayed significantly less activity in key areas of the brain including the amygdala, an almond-shaped bundle of neurons which plays an important role in processing emotions like fear, anger and pleasure. The stunted response observed in the amygdala and in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex is consistent with previous studies of psychopathy," Nikki said. "Conversely, more activity was seen in the striatum and insula regions. The high activity recorded in the insula region surprised the scientists, as the area is central to emotion."

"Wow, there Nikki." Dominic replied. Nikki was speaking in terms which he had no clue about.

"Sorry, I guess I got carried away," she smiled back. "Examining the neural response of individuals with psychopathy is an effective probe into the neural processes underlying affective and empathy deficits in psychopathy." She chuckled. "But enough about my rabbling. Shall we discuss what we are going to do?"

"Nikki, please, and I mean no disrespect to you or any..." Dominic began to say before being cut off by Nikki.

"You need to have an open mind otherwise we are no better than they are." Helen nodded towards Nikki who looked calm and she felt a sudden need to hold Nikki. Yet she needed to remain focus and keep the thoughts of Nikki for another time.

The sadistic killings could not keep Nikki's heart from being quiet, furthering her rage, natter on as though speaking in a consultative, even avuncular tone. She even criticized herself saying, changing topic Nikki said, "What I find frustrating is why me? Why did they send the book, the note, clues to me? What part do I play in their twisted game?"

For a heated moment, Helen felt a sick foreboding that did not sit well in the pit of her stomach. Why did they choose Nikki? Was Nikki in some way involved in their twisted plot and did she have to worry for Nikki's safety? The thought of something happening to Nikki was tugging at her heart.

"Okay, Nikki, what have we learned so far?" Dominic said turning his attention towards Nikki. When he first entered Nikki's house he was flabbergasted as he did not realise that Nikki was made of money. He knew little about her life and only what Helen has told him, but seeing where she lived and the things she collected he knew he would spend a lifetime earning a small fraction of what Nikki had. He felt a little uncomfortable being in Nikki's place as it seemed an intimate setting of a woman.

"Care for a refill," Nikki said pointing towards Dominic empty goblet. "If you like you can have a tour of my wine collection. Don't be afraid to pick one."

Dominic protested while trying to get comfortable, which was now difficult having Nikki and Helen so close. He found himself rattling on about nothing. "I don't know how we are going to keep Jim snout from poking where it not ought to."

"Friggin' nutter he is," Helen hollered causing Nikki and Dominic to chuckle. "Well, it ain't a stretch for that weasel trying to sniff my backside at every chance he gets."

"You should connect one of the clamps to his foot, then the other one to his scrotum, with about equal delicacy." Nikki made the wave in the regal fashion. "Then, turn on the current, sending that weasel reeling: I am certain he shall make those monosyllabic noise exhaling. I would pay money to see that."

"Should you be saying that in my presence?" Dominic said, raised a brow and giving Nikki an uncertain look. "Something tells me your acceptance of Jim Fenner as a DI is a hoax?"

Nikki now cried, coughed out between attempted laughs. "I'd have his lungs fill, die of pneumonia and choke on his own vomit if it would make him disappear. It's less alarmed taking in Jim's screaming eyes. The iron will became as weak, as pliable, as his false heart."

"Listen, Dom, we trust only you. But you need to be willing to keep your emotions at bay and if it means misleading that buffoon then are you capable of handling this task?" She slapped Dominic on the head. "Not another word. Got it?" Helen said.

Dominic nodded appreciatively. "Yes, Helen. Completely understand, yes." He kept nodding as though he had some kind of neural problem, the act of nodding forcing himself to stay conscious, on his feet. "I understand what you are asking and you can count me in. I just want to do my part and help catch these killers." He smiled weakly. "But I appreciated you guys putting your trust in me and I promise to not disappoint."

"I knew we could trust you," Helen replied. "Now let's get on with things."

As the veil of sleep rose, the event of the previous days started to unravel his nerves. Having witness the chaos of his mind he started to panic but as quickly as the panic arose it faded like a whisper and calm replaced anxiety. Stifling a yawn, he rolled out of bed, desperate to shower. He caught a sight of himself in the mirror on the way to the loo. His eyes revealed sleepless nights. As he glanced up at the clock, he needed to put this episode behind him and focus on what was important. There was still much too do and he couldn't afford his mind to behave chaotic. He needed to remain in control. When it comes to nature and nurture, he chooses neither. We are built from a DNA blueprint and born into a world or scenario and circumstance we don't control. God is beyond measure in wanton malice, and matchless in his irony. Those were the thoughts running through his mind. His own never bothered him except for the inconvenience of being born, but they all lacked perspective. It was apparent to him that his father, Deputy Chief Constable played a part in his value system. He though his success as a Sergeant would please him because he could imagine his father being pleased. But now, alas, all he had become was a bad odour with the force. He could not even rank higher and was placed on administrated leave. He imagined his father being shamed by his disgrace? A sorry, petty end of a promising career? What was worst about this humiliation, is how his failure will reflect on his father's distinguish career? He imagined sitting in a dark basement room bent over papers and computer screens.

Yet right now all he could feel is a stab of hunger for her and find nourishment in the very sight of her? But would she see through the bars of his plight and ache for him? You see, the brain itself feels no pain he told himself.

"The ones who've truly harmed you. What if I made them scream apologies? Yet he heard her voice speak clearly,

"But it was you who harmed me."

"No, that's a lie. I could never harm you as I loved you more than life but you couldn't stay innocent. Why did you sway from me? If only you remained…I could have saved your soul."

"But it was you who truly killed me…maybe not by the sword but by revelation...in the end it was you that doomed me to hell."

He closed his eyes, trying to forget the memories as rage built inside his soul. He needed another release, he needed another victim. "I'm doing this all for you...someday you will understand and love me again." He said as the voices in his dead disappeared.

"You need a ride home Helen," Dominic asked putting on his jacket.

"It's alright," she responded not ready to leave Nikki's place. "I need to go over a few things with Nikki before I head home. I will see you tomorrow okay."

Dominic looked at Helen and felt as if she was stalling. But why? There again he felt as if something odd was between Helen and Nikki that he couldn't quite grasp the understanding. Did Helen feel some sort of attraction for Nikki he asked himself? He knew he was probably being irrational as Helen was engaged and he didn't thing she was capable but still he couldn't shake that feeling like there was more to Nikki and Helen's relationship. "Okay then, I shall see you later." He turned his attention towards Nikki who was smiling as if she could read his mind. "Nikki, it was a pleasure coming to your place and I must say I drank too much of your expensive wine."

"Don't give a second thought," Nikki said walking over and giving Dominic a hug. He was surprised by her action but thought nothing of it.

"Then I shall leave you two to sort things out," he said before closing the door behind him.

Both Helen and Nikki looked at each other before Nikki commented, "I do believe Dominic might sense something is not right between us."

Helen looked at Nikki with curiosity. "I don't understand what you are implying."

Nikki laughed. "Helen, please tell me you didn't sense his awkwardness between us. I suspect he might question the extend of our friendship."

"Why would you believe that?" Helen responded, feeling slightly alarmed.

"Oh relax," Nikki replied, shaking her head. "Are you feeling embarrassed if Dominic knew our attraction?"

Helen was quiet for a moment before responding, "Personally, I would rather not discuss whether or not Dominic might be clued in."

"Fine, have it your way." Nikki said, before walking away to get herself a drink. "Are to planning to join me by the fireplace to discuss matters of the heart or are you just going to stand there idle." Nikki knew she would get a response from Helen.

"You winding me up right?" Helen said, feeling warm as if she was inside the fireplace. What she wanted was to refrain from wanting Nikki to kiss her but that was proving to be difficult.

"Now why would I do a thing like that?" Nikki shrugged her shoulders going into the kitchen to get wine and a couple of clean goblets. When she came back she found Helen curled up on the couch watching the roaring fire dance. She gave Helen a goblet.

"Thanks,"

"I love sitting comfy on my couch with a good read and a goblet in my hand, listening to the crackling of the fire." Nikki stated, looking at Helen who seemed relaxed. Her face seemed a little flushed. "Of course, snuggling up to a warm body is much better."

Helen smiled at Nikki's obvious flirtation but did not fight it. She knew she hurt Nikki and they were trying to be civilized without being overly emotional. "Are you planning to fill my goblet or are you going to stand there."

"Are we not bossy, but I do enjoy you taking charge." Nikki said, cozying up next to Helen. She looked at Helen who seemed a little nervous. "Helen, why did you stay behind?"

"What do you mean?" She said trying to avoid Nikki's eyes.

"You're beautiful when blushing," Nikki stated, but not taking her eyes off Helen who was looking away. "Is that bad?"

Helen finally turned her head to meet Nikki's eyes which were glowing by the firelight. "No," she whispered.

"You didn't answer my question," Nikki insisted.

"I didn't want to leave," Helen replied, fidgeting with her hair. In truth, she just wanted to spend time alone with Nikki.

"Elaborate."

"I know you are enjoying this," Helen stated, giving Nikki a slight push.

"I might but I will never confess," Nikki said, giving Helen a warm smile. She wanted so badly to take Helen's hand and lead her to her bedroom but she knew it was something that she had no control over. She told herself was wasn't going to let Helen twist her emotions but that's exactly where she found herself again, realising that pretending all was okay wasn't going to be enough to control what she felt.

"Do you know what you are doing to me?" Helen said shyly.

"Tell me anyway," Nikki said, breathing on Helen which made her spine turn to jelly.

"You know I care about you," Helen said, trying to find the right words. "And you know I am attracted to you…and you know I am in love with you,"

Nikki simply nodded her head realising Helen was being truthful and honest. She didn't want to expect anything but it was hard when Helen was so close to her.

"But you also know I am engaged to Sean and everything is messed up," Helen responded with a calm tone in her voice. "The thing is Nikki, and I know I should not want but I can't help but want to be in your presence."

"I know how you are feeling," Nikki said, rubbing Helen's arms. She had to refrain from kissing Helen but that wasn't going to solve anything. All she could do was be there for Helen and hope that she chooses her over Sean.

Helen looked deep into Nikki brown eyes. "You are so beautiful Nikki." Helen said, running her fingers over Nikki's face. The warm feeling made Nikki close her eyes. "I'm so confused and you make me feel so many things I never thought possible, but it should be all wrong," Helen said sighing. "So tell me why when I am with you everything feels so right?"

Nikki opened her eyes to see Helen looking at her intently. "It's because you are in love with me."

Helen smiled and then turned her head towards the fireplace, again watching the flames flicker. She felt as if she was one of the embers dancing. She took a deep breath and turned towards Nikki. "Would it be wrong if you hold me?"

"It would be wrong if I didn't," Nikki stated, as she pulled Helen into an embrace. Both women feeling a fire burning in their souls. Nikki held onto Helen as if she was holding on for dear life. She knew that she would eventually have to let Helen go but tonight she just allowed herself to feel the closeness. Helen was giving her a little something and that would be enough for the moment.

"I am really glad to be here," Helen responded enjoying the embrace and feeling the sensation it gave her.

"So am I," Nikki said, closing her eyes once more as both women remained for a long time in an embrace until they both quietly feel asleep in each other's arms.

Yvonne picked up the phone and at first hesitated, then dialed the numbers.

"Hello," the voice on the other line said.

"It's me Yvonne,"

"Are you okay," Karen asked. "You sound stressful."

"Not really," she said feeling sick to her stomach. "Listen, I need to talk to you. Are you available tomorrow?"

"Of course. I'm always available for you." Karen said. "Is there something wrong?"

Yvonne sighed before responding, "You could say that. I need your advice. But not over the phone." Yvonne knew she needed to talk to Karen about the hit on Nikki. She knew she needed to do something but wasn't quite sure if she should tell Nikki and all hell would break loose but she couldn't stand idle as she knew Sean would be desperate for an alternative.

"Should I be worried?" Karen said wondering what advice Yvonne needed.

"I will tell you everything when I see you. I am sorry but that's all I can say right now. You need to trust me." Yvonne said passionately.

"Okay, I shall see you soon." Karen hung up her phone wondering why Yvonne sounded as if she was preparing to say goodbye. The though made her sad but maybe she was reading into things. The only thing she could do was wait until she saw Yvonne.