Double Jeopardy chapter 10 (standard:mystery, 7486 words) [10/13] show all parts
Author: Sarah Spenser	Added: Sep 06 2005	Views/Reads: 2588/1830	Part vote: 0.00 (0 votes)
See if Allie is injured in this nail biting chapter!

Click here to read the first 75 lines of the story

sweetness, it's all right. No one's going to come here. This is a 
hospital, you're safe.” “Are ... are you sure?” he saw fear in her eyes 
and wanted to take it away. “I'm positive, sweetheart. You just try and 
get some rest.” Connor kissed her gently and left. A few minutes later, 
Allison was asleep. 

Ernie pondered his fate, he had to confess. It was the only way he could
be free. He had sent Allison those journals so that justice would be 
served. His mother's killer deserved to be locked away in some dark 
damp prison cell. But he hadn't thought of the consequences, Allison 
could pay with her life by having vital information about who killed 
Monica Grimson. He knew what he had to do. In a rush, Ernie put his 
keys in his pocket, grabbed his wallet and headed out the door. 

Honcho had received the call hours after she was admitted to the
hospital. He knew what he had to do, Allison could blow his well 
crafted cover story. If she did, Honcho was looking at a long prison 
term maybe life behind iron bars. He coveted a uniform and entered the 
hospital. He was incognito as a doctor, so no one would suspect his 
diabolical plan. He walked the halls slowly, like a cat stalking its 
prey. Finally, he found her room and entered quietly. She was asleep, 
his prime time to strike, she wouldn't feel a thing. It would be 
tragic, Allison Shure would die in her sleep, no one would be the 
wiser. He pulled the syringe from his pocket and surveyed her arm. Just 
as he found the spot, she stirred. “Go back to sleep, sweetheart.” He 
whispered.” Connor?” she mumbled sleepily. But he didn't answer. 
Allison opened her eyes and gasped. “You're not Connor! You're the ...” 
“Shh, don't make this any harder than it is. Just let me do my job.” 
“You're evil!” “Mrs. Cassidy, I'm a doctor.” Honcho adjusted the wig 
that concealed his natural hair. He was also wearing contacts to 
further his disguise. “What's that for?” Allison asked in fear staring 
at the syringe. “It's a sedative, you need to sleep.” “I ... I'm 
pregnant! I can't have any drugs. They might hurt the baby.” Her breath 
came in short gasps now as he advanced towards her arm. “No! no! stop!” 
she reached for the call button. She began to scream even louder, 
Honcho slipped the syringe into his pocket and virtually vanished into 
the night. Within seconds, a young nurse was by Allison's side. She was 
still shrieking and tried to get out of bed. “Did you see him?” she 
asked panicked. “Who, Mrs. Cassidy?” “That man! The one with the 
syringe. He tried to drug me with it.” “I didn't see anyone. Was it a 
dream?” “No, please you have to believe me this was real!” “Mrs. 
Cassidy, I think you need to close your eyes and try to get some sleep. 
I'm sure it was a dream. You have a concussion. Sometimes nightmares 
seem real. But I can assure you, there is no man here now.” “You need 
to do something! You need to call my husband! Have him search for him!” 
“Calm down, it's all right. I'm going to call your husband okay?” 
“Okay, please hurry.” 

Connor had finished telling his parents what had happened. Thelma was in
shock and so was Clint. They sat on the couch eating potato chips. 
“Allison's all right isn't she?” “She's fine, Mom. She was a little out 
of it when I left though. But I think that's the concussion. Margery 
did a thorough exam and Allie and the baby are just fine.” Just then, 
Allie's cell rang. “What's that?” Connor inquired as he followed the 
sound. He opened Allie's purse, found the phone, and answered. “Hello?” 
“May I speak to Ms. McKenna please? This is Tim from the Forensics 
Lab.” “Hi, Tim. This is Connor Cassidy. I think you have the wrong 
number.” “Oh no, Detective. I've spoken to Ms. McKenna before. She said 
this would be the best line to reach her on.” “Are you sure? It's 
strange, this is Allison's phone.” “Did you say Allison?” Tim asked 
incredulously. “Yes, why?” “That's Ms. McKenna's first name. Funny 
isn't it?” “Very. What's the message?” “Tell her that she can drop the 
check off Monday. She needs to get her samples too.” “I will. Thanks, 
Tim.” Connor hung up and pressed the menu button. He was able to pull 
up a log of Allie's calls. Sure enough one was made to the Forensics 
Lab. He pondered this for a moment, he would have to ask her tomorrow. 
Just then the phone rang. Connor heard his name pulling him out of his 
thoughts. “Connor, it's the hospital.” He raced to the phone. “Is this 
Connor Cassidy?” the nurse said. “Yes, is something wrong with 
Allison?” “This is Melinda the nurse on duty on the fourth floor. Your 
wife's hysterical. She said that a man threatened her. He had a syringe 
and tried to inject her with it.” “Did you get a description? I'll be 
right over.” “Mr. Cassidy, your wife was the only one who saw the man.” 
“He wasn't there when you got there?” “No, but she was hysterical. She 
tried to get out of bed. She's asking for you.” “I'll be right over. I 
know visiting hours are over ...” “I'll grant you special permission. 
I'm the head of this floor.” “Thank you, Melinda.” 

When Connor arrived, Allison was still hysterical. She was sobbing
uncontrollably. He looked at her and thought his heart would break. He 
pulled a chair beside her and took her hand. “Allie, it's going to be 
all right.” “Connor! I'm so glad you're here. I've been so afraid. 
There was a man! I'm telling you he said that I shouldn't make this any 
harder than it is. Then he tried to inject me with the syringe. He said 
he was a doctor, but I think he was evil! I ...” he kissed her to 
silence her. “Allie, are you sure you didn't fall asleep?” “You think 
I'm crazy don't you? I was asleep, when I woke up he was standing here. 
Right where you're sitting, my love! He was standing there, I swear. 
I'm not making this up! I'm not crazy!” “Can you describe him?” “He had 
long curly hair, blue eyes and a mustache. He was tall, and he spoke in 
a whisper.” “Melinda said she didn't see anyone when she came in.” “He 
disappeared, I started screaming and he just vanished.” “I believe you, 
sweetness. I really do, I will scan the streets for him. But right now, 
you need to get some rest.” “I'm scared, Connor. What if he comes 
back?” “I'll stay with you until you fall asleep. Would that make you 
feel better?” “Yeah, can you hold my hand?” he kissed her lightly, she 
kissed him longingly, and he was reminded of simpler times. “Sure, 
Allie. I'll do anything you want me to.” He held her hand until she 
fell asleep. He watched her for a while, just to make sure she didn't 
have any nightmares or call out for him. Connor remembered after she 
had received the death threats. She would sometimes call out for him in 
her sleep. Every time, he would hold her close. Gently pulling her 
towards him, and stroke her hair. But Allie appeared peaceful, and he 
tiptoed from the room. As he left the hospital, Connor had an eerie 
feeling. He had a feeling that what Allison was telling him just might 
be true. 

Connor tossed and turned as he tried to sleep. But it eluded him, his
mind flashed back to Allie, her eyes were full of fear, and nervousness 
and worry seem to overtake the cheerful woman he once knew. There 
wasn't a damn thing he could do help her. He couldn't protect her, the 
mystery man seemed to find her. At 6-30 he got out of bed. He thought 
it was pointless to lay in bed when he couldn't sleep. He wished Allie 
was beside him. Connor brewed some coffee and had a cup. Afterwards, he 
showered and dressed and headed to the hospital. Melinda was still on 
duty and smiled at him. “How's Allison?” “She's fine. She's still 
asleep.” “Did she wake up at all?” “No, slept through the night.” “Can 
I see her?” “Visiting hours aren't for a while. But I can make an 
exception for you. Just don't let word get around.” She smiled as she 
pointed to Allison's room. 

Connor thanked her and entered quietly. He sat beside her, watching her
sleep. She looked peaceful, and he wondered when peace would reenter 
their lives. She seemed to be even more beautiful than the last time he 
had seen her, and he smiled as he thought of getting her home. Connor 
remembered the night before, and how he had held her hand. He gently 
took her hand and stroked it lightly. Her skin was soft and delicate 
beneath his fingers. He couldn't resist placing a gentle kiss on her 
lips. He kissed her lightly, feeling the taste of her mouth linger on 
his lips. She stirred and looked at him. “Connor?” “Hi, sweetheart. I 
didn't mean to wake you.” “That kiss was so sweet. Have you been here 
all night?” he kissed her again, not being able to resist the passion 
that burned within him. She kissed him, a long smoldering kiss that 
conveyed her desire. “No, sweetness. I got here a little while ago. You 
were asleep so I just sat here. But I couldn't resist kissing you.” She 
smiled at him. She appeared to be in good spirits, the fear was gone 
for the moment. “I love you so much, Connor. Thanks for believing me 
about the man.” “I believe you, darling. If you say there was a man 
here, there was.” She kissed him again. 

Allison rested until Monday. Connor and Thelma doted on her, not letting
her do anything. She was glad when Monday came. She hated when people 
hovered over her, although she knew they meant well, they drove her 
crazy. She drove to the forensics lab on her lunch hour. Tim told her 
about talking to Connor. She knew her cover had been blown and thanked 
him for his help. She dialed Connor and tried to explain. “Why didn't 
you tell me? What is this a big secret?” “Connor, don't make more of 
this than it is. I told you that I had something analyzed at the lab. I 
don't even remember what I was telling you. But I know where the murder 
weapon is. It's in Ross's backyard!” “And you know this how?” he asked 
still fuming. “Because the author of the speech that I took to Tim is 
the author of the journal.” “What the hell are you talking about?” 
“Listen to me! Ross wrote that journal and the speech.” “Wait a second, 
you're saying that Ross killed Monica?” “Yes, he killed her! Get a 
search warrant! Do something!” “I will, but I want to find out 
something from you first.” “What's that?” “Why did you use a false last 
name?” “Because Allison Shure was too obvious. I didn't want to answer 
lots of questions. Besides, I wanted definitive proof that Ross was the 
author of the journal.” “Okay, I'm sorry. I'm just worried about you, 
Allie. I'm also stressed out. We're still searching for Chad.” “I'm 
sorry, honey. I didn't keep it from you on purpose. I don't have any 
secrets from you. I love you, Connor.” She waited for his response. “I 
love you, Allie. Just be safe okay?” “I will, I promise. I have to call 
the furniture company and reschedule. I'm bringing some little odds and 
ends over to the house.” “Okay, I called them already. They said they'd 
deliver on Saturday. How's that?” “Fine with me. I'll be there.” “You 
know what? I'll meet you at the house tonight. I want to fix that 
step.” “Okay, I love you.” “I love you too, Allison.” Connor hung up 
feeling relieved. 

Allison took the other journal from her briefcase, she perused it and
noticed more references to Honcho. It must be code for something, she 
thought. But what? She played word games and scribbled notes on a pad. 
“When I think of Honcho, I think of hmm ...” she pondered for a second. 
“Chief, big chief, head honcho, head chief um ...” she came up with 20 
phrases associated with Honcho. She looked down her list again, almost 
every one of them contained the word chief. “Big Chief, what can that 
mean? Big Chief. Oh my God! Honcho!” it dawned on her, she snapped into 
action and dialed. “Come on, Frank please be there.” She said as she 
punched in his extension. Frank Simpson was a good friend of hers. He 
ran Eye Spy the best PI agency in all of Connecticut. He was busy, and 
had a huge waiting list, but always made time for her. “Eye Spy, this 
is Frank.” His gruff voice said. “Hi, Frank. It's Allison, how are 
you?” “Allison, how nice to hear from you. I'm fine, sweetie, what can 
I do for you?” “I need you to do a background check on someone.” “Okay. 
How's that flatfoot husband of yours?” she laughed. Their friendship 
was more akin to a sibling relationship, and she laughed at Frank's 
sarcastic wit. “Connor's fine. Charlie Chattum.” “What?” “I need you to 
do a background check on Charlie Chattum. If that's possible. Listen, 
Frank I know you're swamped and ...” “Nonsense, I'll do it right now. 
Are you going to be there for a little while?” “Yeah, till at least 5.” 
“Okay, same number?” “Same number.” “Okay, darling, give me a few hours 
and I'll have a full report on our esteemed police chief.” 

The evening news was full of stories tonight. The prep work took hours
and Allison was completing all her voice overs and narrations when the 
phone rang. She was lost in thought, but the piercing monotone brought 
her back to reality. “Good afternoon, WFTR. Allison Shure speaking, may 
I help you?” “Allison, it's Frank. I got the full work up on good old 
Charlie. You'll never guess what I found. Charlie used to be in the 
mob. Hooked up with a then small time hood Chadwick Batano.” Allison's 
blood ran cold. Charlie and Chad? “There's more, Charlie used to be 
Benito Calmari, the head of the mob. But after being arrested several 
times, he found a way to beat the system. He handed the reigns over to 
Chad, and Charlie Chattum was born.” “I don't understand if he was a 
mobster how did he ...” “Wait, Sugar Plumb there's more. Charlie still 
known as Benito faked his own death, control went to Chad. Benito paid 
some doctors to do plastic surgery, and changed his name to Charlie 
Chattum. He then moved across the country and pursued a law degree. He 
lived in Atlanta for a while, just working the beat as a cop. Then he 
followed Chad to Connecticut and vwala, you have a new police chief.” 
“Oh my goodness! So Charlie followed Chad getting him out of trouble.” 
“That's right.” “And that's how Chad never stayed in custody for a long 
time. Charlie knew how to manipulate the law.” Frank whistled. “you're 
quick, babe. That's right. Anything else Frankie can do for you, 
kitten?” she laughed. “No thank you. You've done quite enough.” “Oh, 
I've got some mug shots of Charlie, want me to fax them over?” “Sure. 
Can you do it now? I don't want anyone here to see it.” “Sure, sweets. 
Anything for you.” She thanked him and hung up. Now it was all 
beginning to fit. Charlie and Chad was a twist she hadn't anticipated 
but Ross and Chad? Where did Ross fit in? Did he know Chad? Allison put 
the mug shots of Charlie in her briefcase and perused the journals one 
more time. The page she opened to horrified her. It detailed Charlie's 
involvement in the explosion of the courthouse. 

Honcho pulled it off! He bought the explosives and blew that thing sky
high. Unfortunately, he didn't kill pesky Allison Shure. That woman is 
like a fly! Just keeps coming back and annoying me. I wanted to make my 
move, but Honcho stopped me. I almost had her right after the 
explosion. I crept into the hospital, but she woke up and started 
screaming. I left because I didn't want to get caught. I wish I had 
killed her then. Chad is in on this too, I am his lawyer, or was until 
I decided to run for governor. 

I would bail him out of all sorts of trouble, and Honcho had the law at
his disposal. That's why I'm set on winning this governor's seat. The 
mob will rule Connecticut and I can put Honcho and Chad into some sort 
of high life. 

Allison was shocked, now it all made sense. She knew why Ross killed
Monica. She must've found out about the alliance between Ross, Charlie 
and Chad. She must've also stumbled on their plans to kill her. That's 
why she had called Allison to the house that day. To warn her, Monica's 
words rang in Allie's head. “It's a matter of life and death, yours!” 
Allison shivered as she thought of it. It wasn't Chad who was trying to 
kill her, but Ross and Charlie. They would have more to lose if she 
uncovered the link between Charlie and Ross. Ross's gubernatorial 
campaign would be called into question, and Charlie could be indicted 
for his previous crimes. Charlie could probably also be indicted for 
aiding and abetting a fugitive, since he had helped Chad countless 
times elude the law. It was just a front that he wanted to find him. 
Maybe he had killed Chad, although Allie thought that highly unlikely. 
The fact that Ross killed Monica, the journals, and what was contained 
in them could send him to prison for a long time. 

Connor headed over to Ross's house with the forensics team in toe. He
was nervous about confronting Ross, but he had an official search 
warrant from the judge. He couldn't tell Ross that Allison had the 
journals. That would put her life in even more danger. He rang the bell 
and waited for Ross to answer. “Yes, Detective. What the hell do you 
want?” “Mr. Grimson, we want to look in your backyard for any evidence 
on who killed your wife.” “Get lost!” “We have an official search 
warrant, Mr. Grimson.” “Do whatever you have to all right?” Ross yanked 
the door open and Connor and the other officers entered. They went into 
the backyard, Connor referenced the exact spot that Allison had spoke 
of. There buried in a shallow pile of dirt, was the bloody knife. 
Connor put gloves on and carefully retrieved it. They spent hours 
conducting a thorough search of the yard. When they were finished, they 
were sure they had the evidence to convict Ross. 

Connor met Allison over at the house. She was cleaning closets and
storing sheets and towels. She was trying her best to unpack boxes. 
Without the furniture, the rooms looked vacant, she tried to picture 
what they would look like full of furniture. They had worked for two 
hours, and they were starving. Connor decided to take Allie out to 
dinner. He would be glad to have some time with her before the baby 
came. Although he appreciated his parents generous offer, living with 
them was getting cramped. He missed their alone time as a couple. At 
Moonlight Serenade one of the most romantic restaurants in town, Allie 
told Connor about Charlie. When she was finished, he set down his fork 
and looked pensive. “Frank told you this?” “Yes, I was shocked. I can't 
believe it! It's all in Ross's journal, his alliance with Chad and 
Charlie. It even details how Charlie blew up the courthouse.” 
“Charlie?” Connor said incredulously. “I thought it was Chad  at first. 
But it doesn't make sense. There was a bomb under Chad's chair, but 
there were also explosives planted outside the courthouse. They must've 
had some sort of signal.” “I'm going to need those journals. Of course 
Charlie's lawyer will dispute it if it goes to trial.” “Frank's got mug 
shots of when Charlie was Benito Calmari, he was associated with Ross 
too. There are some references to Calmari in his journals.” “And Benito 
staged his own death?” Connor inquired trying to play catch up as Allie 
rambled. “Yes, no one's heard of him since about oh a decade ago. Maybe 
more.” “Okay, give me the journals tonight.” “Okay, I have them in my 
briefcase, and I have Tim's handwriting analysis.” “Great, we'll need 
that. Did you tell Doug?” Allie took a sip of her coke and smiled at 
him. “I did, and he thinks it's going to be the biggest news story. He 
thinks it'll take a week for it to pan out.” “Probably, based on what 
you've told me, and Ross's journals. We can look under Charlie's real 
name, and charge him with previous crimes.” “Ross is Chad's lawyer, and 
Charlie bailed Chad out of every spot.” “Why is he so intent on finding 
Chad?” Connor asked. “Well, I have two theories. The first one is that 
he's afraid Chad will blow his cover. The second one is that it's a 
front, and he truly knows where Chad is.” “Hmm, interesting. Any news 
on those teenagers?” “No, I haven't talked to Ernie lately either. I'm 
going to ask Ross if he knows where they are.” “Don't pay him a visit! 
We just searched his place.” “Did you find anything?” “Allie, you know 
I can't tell you that.” “Did you?” “Yes, we found something 
significant.” “Ross tried to kill me. Remember that man I told you 
about after the courthouse exploded?” “Yeah.” “It was Ross! I found it 
in his journal today.” “Wow!” he kissed her tenderly. “Now, I'd rather 
talk about you.” He said with a smile. “Me?” “Yes, my beautiful 
intelligent wife who solved the biggest story ever!” “Not yet, I 
haven't found those boys.” “You will, sweetness. How are you feeling? 
Are you getting rest?” “I'm resting, I feel fine.” “Are you sure?” “I'm 
positive. I could only think of one thing that would make me feel 
better.” She said kissing him playfully. “What?” “Making love to you.” 
She said kissing him passionately. She explored his mouth, he leaned 
towards her. She kissed him with more fervor and passion. “I love you, 
Connor.” She whispered. “I love you, Allie.” 

They entered Thelma and Clint's quietly. Slowly, they crept along the
hall and snuck into the bedroom. Connor quietly closed the door as 
Allison sat on the bed. Connor came over and placed a gentle kiss on 
her lips. She smiled and kissed him back, gently massaging his 
shoulders. Connor ran his fingers through her luxurious hair, and 
caressed her breasts. He began to unbutton her blouse, as the passion 
began to smolder within him. Connor tossed her blouse to the floor and 
kissed the places the buttons revealed. She moaned his name as she 
helped him unhook her bra. She stroked his face with gentle fingers as 
she planted sensual kisses on his lips. His breath came in short gasps 
as Allie lifted his shirt off his body. He slid out of his pants and 
climbed into bed beside her. 

They continued to kiss as the fire of desire burned within both of them.
Connor kissed her long and deep until they both couldn't stand it. 
Slowly, and ever so delicately, he began to make love to her. It was 
like a tidal wave. It built slowly, started rhythmically and gained 
speed. Both of them were lost in ecstasy and pleasure as they  tried to 
convey their undying love with their bodies. When they were too 
exhausted, they collapsed beside each other. “That was amazing.” Connor 
said kissing her. “I love you.” She said stroking his cheek lightly. “I 
love you too.” They talked for a while about the baby, the new house 
and all their hopes and dreams. Soon, they fell asleep. 

The next day, the news room was buzzing with news of Allison's big
story. Although she still hadn't found the missing teenagers, she had 
uncovered a diabolical plot. All of a sudden, Ross's gubernatorial 
campaign made sense. If he won, he would be in a position of  power 
which would benefit Charlie and Chad. Doug wanted Allison to film the 
arrests of Charlie and Chad. She sat across from him as he explained 
what he wanted. “We can do a special episode of Eye on Crime! You can 
shoot when Charlie and Chad get arrested. All we have to do is find 
those missing boys.” “I wonder if Ross knows where they are.” “I don't 
know. But if you're thinking about asking him don't. It's too 
dangerous. Who do you think sent you those journals?” “I don't know. 
Certainly not Ross, but whoever did it knew that he killed Monica.” 
“How do you know?” “Because a note came with them. It said something 
like may justice be served.” “Hmm, that's odd.” There was a knock at 
the door. “Come in.” Doug said, the door opened and his secretary stood 
framed in the doorway. “I'm sorry to interrupt, but there's a phone 
call.” “Oh, I'll let you take that.” Allison said getting up. “It's for 
you, Allison.” “Thanks, Maggie.” A moment later he heard her voice. He 
was glad to hear that she was alive. “Allison, it's Ernie. Can you meet 
me right away?” “What's happening? I'm not sure if I can get away, 
Ernie. I'm at work.” “Please, this is important.” “I'll see what I can 
do.” “Okay, call me back? I'm at Martha's.” “Okay, I'll call you in 
about five minutes.” Allison hung up and went into talk to Doug. “Do 
you need me?” “I always need you. You're our best reporter, Allison. Is 
something wrong? Is it the baby?“ “No, nothing like that. But I have to 
run an errand. Will everything be all right around here for an hour?” 
“Sure, do whatever you have to. You're sure you're feeling well?” his 
eyes conveyed worry, and she could hear it in his voice. “I'm fine, 
Doug. Don't worry. I'll be right back.” 

Ernie sat in his room waiting for her. He knew he had to tell her the
truth. She had to know who sent her those journals, he had to come 
clean. He had begged Ross to turn himself in, but he had flatly 
refused, saying they would never catch him. Ross had no idea of the 
knowledge his son knew. Ernie jumped as there was a knock at his door. 
“Who is it?” “Allison.” He flung open the door and hugged her. “What's 
wrong? You look like you're upset. I'm sorry I haven't been around 
after your Mom died I ...” “It's nothing like that, Allison. Sit down.” 
“This sounds serious.” “It is. I have something to tell you. Did you 
find out that my father killed Mom?” she gasped. “Yes, I'm sorry.” She 
reached for his hand. He embraced her hand enjoying the warmth of her 
touch. “I sent you those journals.” “You? Why? I mean ... why didn't 
you just come out and tell me! Why this anonymous letter?” “I was 
afraid, Allison. I was scared of Ross too. I knew he killed Mom and I 
had no proof. But when I went to confront him, he left for some sort of 
meeting and I rummaged through his office. I found the journals only 
two, leather bound and sent them to you.” “You're in danger!” she 
blurted. “So are you! You know he killed Mom.” “I know a lot more than 
that.” “Come with me.” “Come with you? Where?” “Into hiding. You can't 
stay here! He'll kill you!” “Ernie, I can't leave town with you! I 
appreciate that you're trying to protect me but ...” “No buts, Allison! 
I know my father he didn't hesitate to kill my mother.” “I know but 
...” “You said you know much more how much more?” she paused not quite 
sure how to tell him. “I know enough. Your father and Charlie are 
working together.” “What do you mean? Dad's a lawyer and Charlie's the 
police chief of course they would be ...” “No, Ernie listen to me. Does 
the name Benito Calmari mean anything to you?” Ernie gasped. “Oh my 
God! You have to get out of here with me.” “I can't. But I want you to 
run. Run as far and as fast as you can.” “Not without you.” He said 
beginning to sob. “Ernie, there's no way I can come with you.” Her cell 
phone rang interrupting their conversation. “Excuse me.” She said 
reaching for her cell. “Hello?” “Allie, where are you?” “I'm with 
Ernie.” “That thug! What the hell are you doing?” “Connor, relax all 
right. He called and I came over.” “I'm putting Bryan on you. I'm 
worried.” He had Al Lancing one of the best police officers scheduled 
to follow Allie, but he had another assignment at the last minute. 
“Don't be, my love. The baby and I are fine.” “Okay, just be safe all 
right? I love you.” “I love you, Connor.” “Connor hates me.” Ernie said 
once she had turned off her phone. “No he doesn't. He's just protective 
of me and the baby. Listen, Ernie, I want you to run as far away from 
here as possible.” “What about you?” “I'm fine. I'll be fine. I want 
you to promise me that you will leave tonight.” “Okay, will you call me 
when Dad's locked up?” “Sure, you just drop me a note let me know where 
you are.” She hugged him and left. As she descended the stairs, tears 
cascaded down her cheeks. She would miss Ernie, but more than that she 
was afraid for him. Not only for his safety, but her unborn child's as 
well. 

The week passed by in a blur, Allie was busy preparing her ground
breaking episode of Eye on Crime. The media was filled with the 
breaking story of Charlie, Chad and Ross. They had been dubbed The 
Three Musketeers. Allison couldn't pass a news stand without seeing her 
picture plastered all over the front page. One of the headlines read: 
Allison Shure Local Heroine! But she didn't consider herself a heroine. 
She still hadn't found those missing teens. The episode of Eye on Crime 
detailing Charlie, Ross and Chad's arrests was being promoted and the 
local police were even getting in on the act. Charlie adamantly denied 
any involvement with Ross or Chad. 

The other story that had made news was Monica Grimson's murder. The fact
that the gubernatorial candidate was the prime suspect in his wife's 
death didn't do much for Ross's popularity. Ross fumed as he watched 
the story on TV. Allison was reporting that he was suspected in his 
wife's murder. Then the screen flashed to the facts of Monica's murder. 
Bryan read a portion of Ross's journal and then the screen faded back 
to Allison in the  studio. “This puts a dim light on Mr. Grimson's 
gubernatorial campaign. He is now the prime suspect in his wife 
Monica's murder. Police have analyzed a knife found at the Grimson 
home. The knife the alleged murder weapon in Monica's death, contained 
Ross's finger prints and Monica's blood. Ross Grimson's campaign had 
gone well so far, but now instead of trying to win votes, he will try 
to win a judge's sympathy to stay out of jail.” Ross cursed as he 
turned off the TV. He dialed quickly, it took a few rings, but he 
finally heard the phone being picked up. “Hello?” “Kill her.” “Now?” 
the man said. “Now.” Ross said slamming down the phone. 

Allison was up early Saturday morning. The furniture was supposed to be
delivered and they would spend their first night in their new house. 
She was excited and walked into the kitchen to make coffee. Connor was 
sitting at the table perusing Ross's journals. His assignment from Bob 
Frank the now interim police chief, was to scan the journals and 
outline all the damning statements regarding Ross's guilt. He had just 
read about Slim's murder. Chad had ordered the hit, but Ross had been 
the trigger man. No one would have ever suspected that. Chad had 
threatened Allison, and with Charlie's help blew up the courthouse. But 
Ross code named Red had done it. He described it in gory detail. When 
he heard Allie enter, he set the journal down. “Hi, honey. You're up 
early. Want some coffee?” “Sure.” She walked to the cabinet and got a 
cup. “I'll get it, Allie. I love doing things for you.” “You're sweet.” 
She kissed him, he cherished the taste of her lips against his. While 
they had coffee, Connor told her of Slim's murder. She was shocked, 
Chad had threatened her, it didn't make sense. But if he had ordered 
the hit, it certainly did fit. “So, what's on your agenda for today?” 
“Well, the furniture supposed to come.” “Want me to come with you?” 
“Sure. Then we can set it up and maybe we can spend our first night 
there.” The only thing that needed to arrive was the furniture. They 
had spent weeks picking out new appliances, silverware, sheets, and 
other items. Allison was excited and Connor thought that maybe things 
were looking up. It was about time, he thought. Allie had some hard 
times lately, and he wanted the sun to shine for her. 

They spent all day setting up the house for the furniture. Finally,
around 4, the delivery truck arrived. Allie and Connor worked late into 
the night setting everything up. By the time they finished, they were 
exhausted. The bed looked inviting, and they decided to spend their 
first night in the house. Scarlet was still at Thelma and Clint's. He 
would've hated the noise of the movers. Tomorrow, they planned to move 
their stuff and Scarlet into the new house. Connor held Allie as they 
pulled a light sheet around them. “I think we accomplished a lot 
today.” Allie said wearily. “Me too. Do you like you're new house?” he 
asked kissing her. “I love it. But I love you more.” They kissed 
longingly for a while. Exhausted, they soon drifted off to sleep. 

He waited until midnight, it was the perfect time to strike. Ross had
wanted him to kill her before this, but the time wasn't right. Now in a 
new house, she would be totally disoriented and he could make his move. 
He readied his weapons and prepared to enter the house. 

Allison was sound asleep when she heard something. She opened her eyes
and glanced at Connor who was asleep beside her. It was nothing, she 
thought. But then she heard it again. “Connor?” she whispered shaking 
him. He stirred a little, but didn't fully wake up. She shook him 
harder. “Connor?” “What?” he said sleepily opening his eyes. “What's 
wrong, Allie? Is it the baby?” “No, I heard something.” “It's a new 
house, honey. Probably just the way it sounds at night.” Then they 
heard the sound of breaking glass. “Is that the house too?” she asked 
clearly afraid. “I'll go check.” “No! it could b  dangerous.” “I'll be 
careful, Allie. I'll be right back, stay right here.” She listened as 
Connor went down the stairs that led to the living room. She listened 
until his footsteps faded away. Her heart was pounding as fingers of 
fear began to grip her. 

Connor aimed a flashlight into the living room, he flipped on the light
and surveyed the room. Nothing looked out of place. With his gun drawn, 
he entered the kitchen, the dining room and the den. Then he returned 
to the living room, the man crept out from his hiding place and hit 
Connor over the head. The blow stunned him, he fought viciously with 
the man. “What the hell are you doing?” the man was incognito, wearing 
a mask,  a wig and glasses. He hit Connor again, he fell hitting his 
head on the coffee table. Once the man was sure Connor was unconscious, 
he headed upstairs where his prey awaited him. “Connor?” Allison's 
voice called, the man listened for a second. The house was large and 
contained several upstairs bedrooms. He followed her voice and found 
her still in bed. She had her slippers on and was sitting on the edge 
of the bed when he entered. She gasped when she saw him. “What did you 
do with Connor? Is he hurt?” “Let's just say he's taking a nap. The 
person I really want is you.” He laughed evilly coming closer, she 
could see the barrel of a gun as he advanced. She screamed and ran as 
fast as she could out of the bedroom. He chased her throughout the 
upstairs bedrooms. She ran into the room that was going to be her 
office. Seeing the closet, she used it to conceal herself. She could 
hear him searching for her. He was calling her name, she hoped that 
Connor was all right, she worried about him. There was a good reason he 
hadn't come back upstairs. She heard him enter the room. She screamed 
as he opened the closet door. “Don't fight me, Allison. Just go quickly 
and easily! Don't make this harder on yourself or your unborn child!” 
“I won't let you kill me! You're evil! That's what you are!” he laughed 
at her, an evil cold laugh, it made her shiver. Allison stood and 
attempted to run, she ran out of the room and to the stairs. She could 
see Connor lying motionless on the living room floor. She gasped and 
took a step towards the stairs. “Oh my God, Connor! Connor? Can you 
hear me? Are you all right, my love?” but he didn't answer. “Don't 
move!” the man said jabbing the cold barrel of the gun into her side. 
Allison reached up and began to scratch his face. She stuck her fingers 
in his eyes and pulled as hard a she could. The mask came off and his 
true identity was revealed. “Charlie!” “Now you know! Now I'm going to 
kill you!” Her heart thudded in her chest as she thought of where to 
go. She was so afraid, and she desperately wanted to help Connor. He 
could be hurt, bleeding, and she wasn't there to help him. She ran into 
a guest bedroom. Charlie went in the same direction but went into the 
wrong room. After several minutes, she thought it was safe. Allison 
knew she had to get out of the house. 

If she could get out, she could call an ambulance for Connor. She slowly
crept out of her hiding place and lingered at the top of the stairs. 
The house was quiet, too quiet. Just as she began to descend from the 
top step, Charlie reappeared. She screamed when she saw him. “No! stop, 
Charlie! Please stop!” “Now you're going to get what you deserve!” 
Allison teetered on the top step, Charlie saw his opportunity and 
pushed her. She screamed as she fell helplessly to the bottom. Charlie 
raced down after her. He could see her lying motionless at the bottom 
of the staircase. She wasn't moving, and appeared still. He took one 
last look at Connor's unconscious form and left the house. 


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