Do I Know You

By CJ Vermote

Sara lives in Washington State and as a young woman knows the meaning of tragedy. With an inheritance most of us can only dream of, she takes a vacation and finds herself face to face with Rob, a childhood boyfriend.
What appears to be a chance meeting with Rob is anything but that. Though Sara has dreams and intuitions she should be listening to, she ignores them and allows the fast paced romance with Rob, a man she should not trust, lead to marriage. Sara loves her new life until tragedy strikes, leaving her to fight for her life...alone.

• Language: English
• Publisher: CJ Vermote
• Release date: Sep 27, 2013
• ISBN: 9781301080267

CJ Vermote

CJ Vermote (CJ is short for Cecily Jane) is originally from Washington State. She and her husband are currently living in Cornell, Michigan. Her favorite vacation spot is Seaside, Oregon, so it’s only natural she would write with the greater Pacific Northwest as her center zone for her books.She also loves photography and when not writing, she is capturing moments in time. You can find her photography online through her website, or under Cecily Vermote Photography with FineArtAmerica.com. Retired and enjoying life as a writer, she views her life as a journey and is enjoying the ride.

Book preview

CHAPTER ONE

Holy SHIT…

Sara hit her brakes with both feet to avoid slamming into the backside of the FedEx truck in front of her.

Shit…stop gawking at the ocean, girl, or you won’t make it to your hotel. That was just plain stupid, Sara thought as she covered her heart with her hand hoping it would slow the thumping.

After a quick stop at Safeway and the hardware store, Sara found her way to the Hi-Tide hotel, checked in and dropped off her luggage, then headed to the beach.

She knew Brandon would expect a call as soon as she got there.

I still wish you would have waited so I could have gone with you, Sara. I told you I would have taken a couple weeks off school. You could have picked me up from SeaTac airport, then we could have driven to the ocean together, Brandon said.

Brandon, we already had this discussion. It was only a four-hour drive from home and I did fine. Besides, I really need to take some time alone. I know you mean well and I love you for your concern, but I’m a big girl. Hey, here’s an idea; anytime you get concerned, just picture James. Remember the guy I went out with a couple of years ago? I think he is still on the ground rolling around groaning and sputtering obscenities after taking my knee to his groin. I think I can handle myself.

Thanks for the mental image…yes, I remember. Just the same, be careful. A beautiful woman alone is an easy target. Brandon pictured her deep blue eyes and long, thick, chestnut brown curls tumbling around her shoulders.

Not to change the subject, Brandon said, but how are you doing? I know today is your mom’s birthday. Every year you did such a red carpet treatment for her; I can’t imagine what you must be feeling. It’s been tough for you.

Thanks for remembering. That’s why you’re my best friend, Sara said. The quiet between them lasted a few seconds before she continued. I miss her so much. After Daddy died, we were like a stamp to an envelope…now with her gone, too, and you on the other end of the continent, there are times I feel really alone. But I’m handling it, so take your worry hat off.

Sara stood on the beach at Seaside, Oregon, watching the waves while she talked to Brandon, her best friend since third grade. She refrained from mentioning anything about the guy that seemed to be a constant in her peripheral vision because she knew it would freak him out.

Ending their call when Brandon had to get to his last class, she promised to call him later. Walking along the beach, her thoughts drifted to the shops and restaurants that lined Broadway Street. This trip will be fun but could add up. I don’t want to start getting foolish with my money.

The sound of the healing waves echoed in her mind, pushing the stranger on the beach out of her thoughts. She became lost in the memories of her life. The good ones as well as ones that tore her heart apart, and had filled her with anguish at times. She felt inside her purse to the edges of the letter she had kept with her for the past year since her mom had died, but she didn’t take it out to read…not here, not now. Inheriting over five million dollars from her mom when she’d lost her battle to cancer had put a different spin on life. Sara took a deep breath, knowing she would give up every penny if it meant having her mom back.

Her stomach rumbled in anticipation for the cheese, crackers, and wine she had selected at the store. Since her hotel had a kitchenette, she thought it was a great idea to pick up some groceries to save a few dollars.

I guess I better feed you, Sara said as she patted her growling tummy.

She turned back toward her hotel, but caught sight of the guy she had noticed earlier. Attempting to appear as nonchalant as possible, she stopped and turned back toward the ocean. She knew right away it was the same guy she had seen shortly after she’d started her beach walk. From a quick glance, it looked like he had a camera pointed in her direction. Was she crazy? Had he been keeping pace with her or was she getting paranoid? Was she automatically going to suspect everyone that got close to her of wanting her money? Realizing he was probably just someone walking the beach, too, she started to feel silly. Regardless, she decided to go the long way and loop around to her hotel. She turned back to her original path and was stunned to see a black poodle running at her with a long piece of driftwood in his mouth.

Oh, my God, he is coming right at me, Sara thought as she tried to figure out a good escape route…but he was at her feet too quickly.

He’s okay. He won’t bite you, a man yelled over the sound of the waves as he closed the distance between Sara and himself.

Sara was inclined to agree once she realized he wasn’t letting go of the hunk of driftwood he had in his mouth anytime soon.

Hi, the man said, we’re really sorry he ran at you that way. He’s just so happy to show everyone what he has. I’m Jim Barker and this is my wife, Sue.

Pleased to meet you both, Sara said, I’m Sara Sanders.

So nice to meet you, Sue said patting the top of her dog’s head before he trotted off again. He has had that stick in his mouth for hours already…he has a strong jaw so we just let him carry it. Seems to make him happy.

He does seem to be enjoying himself, Sara said.

Yep, no shortage of running space for him, that’s for sure. Do you come here often? Jim asked.

This is my first time, Sara answered.

Jim and I haven’t been here for ages, but we sure love it here. Are you staying close by? Sue asked.

Yes, just over at the Hi-Tide Hotel. It has a little mini kitchen I was getting ready to use, Sara said smiling as she put her hand on her stomach to show the need for food.

Are you in a commercial or are you doing a modeling thing…what do they call that again, Jim? Sue asked her husband.

Now, Sue, how in the heck do you think I would know what it’s called? Jim answered.

If you mean a modeling shoot, the answer is neither. I’m here on vacation and the last thing I want is to think about someone taking pictures of me right now. I haven’t even changed out of my traveling clothes, let alone brushed my hair, Sara laughed, but I’ll take that as a compliment.

A flash of concern traveled between Jim and Sue; the look made it obvious they had something to say.

What…what am I missing here? Sara asked them. Maybe her imagination wasn’t getting the best of her?

Say something Jim, Sue nudged her husband.

Okay…don’t be so pushy, Jim said in a sharp tone, Since we have been heading in your direction, we noticed a man about fifty yards back, taking photos of you. At least it sure seemed like he was. Mind you, our eyesight isn’t what it used to be, but he stopped and is just staring at the water. Before he was clearly following the path you were taking. We are both kind of nosy, so we figured if we kept heading your way we might recognize you as someone famous when we got up to you, Jim said, Are you famous and we just don’t know it?

No…I assure you, I’m nobody, Sara said with a chuckle.

Okay, thought I’d ask. It’s probably nothing then, just a coincidence. But in reality a young lady like you needs to be careful these days.

Sara turned her head to see the man had stopped and now had his camera dangling from his neck.

I don’t know who he is. I already noticed him a while back, but thought I was being paranoid. You really think he’s been watching me?

Well, it sure looked like it from our vantage point.

I’m not going to let anything come between me and my vacation, so I guess I’ll just go ask him. If you two want to wander over there with me… Sara pleaded quietly.

Sure, we are headed that way anyhow. Let me get Duke’s attention. That’s our dog’s name, by the way.

Jim called to the dog, who came leaping at him. As they got closer, Sara looked to see if she recognized him…but nothing stirred. The man stood his ground as the three of them and the dog walked his way. Sara tried not to stare, but her eyes kept locking in on the stranger’s as the distance evaporated between them.

Hello, Rob said. He smiled knowing he had won his little game of cat and mouse. She had come to him; the chase was short and sweet. Inside his adrenaline was pumping knowing he would have her soon. Rob had every detail of his plan worked out including the use of the stolen identity. Helping clean out his friend, Rob Tranton’s room after he died was a drain, but when he had the opportunity to pick up his social security card and birth certificate, he didn’t hesitate. With their first names the same and their last names similar, Tranton and Scranton, they bonded right away. Then again they were alike in many ways, not just in name. At times he missed his best friend, but everything happened for a reason, even death. It suited him to have two identities, two lives, both with specific reasons. Some people had an alter ego…he had the real thing.

Hello to you. Do I know you? Sara asked.

Well, you may not remember me, but yes, you know me and I know you. I’m sorry if my attention felt like an intrusion. I was trying to zoom in with my camera to be sure it was really you, Rob lied.

Okay, I give up…who are you and where do I know you from? Sara asked.

I was afraid you wouldn’t remember, and why should you, it’s been over fifteen years. I’m Rob Tranton…ring a bell? he said, secretly hoping remembering last names wasn’t her thing.

Sara took a deep breath; her eyes flicked between Jim, Sue, and back to Rob.

I was pretty sure it was you when I saw you at Safeway, but you were getting in your car so I didn’t have enough time to call out to you. Then when I saw you on the beach, I wanted to get a better look…you are as beautiful now as you were then. I can’t believe you are standing in front of me. I’d recognize you anywhere…though I’m feeling a bit hurt you don’t seem to recognize me, Rob smiled.

Sara stared at him…somehow he knew she was just getting her head around seeing him after all these years.

Hopefully, when her memory hits, she won’t start running the other way, Rob said to Jim and Sue with a chuckle.

Say something, Sara…or at least introduce me to your grandparents.

Oh, my gosh, my manners. They aren’t my grandparents; I met them because of their mutual concern over the possible stalker issue. This is Jim and Sue Barker…and their dog, Duke. Jim and Sue, this is Rob. With her attention back on Rob she said, I just don’t know what to think about you standing there.

So you do remember me. Rob smiled.

Looking at you, there is something very familiar about you, but it’s been a long time...people change. Something about your eyes… Sara said,

Okay… Jim said, I don’t mean to be nosy…well, actually I do. Regardless, would someone like to fill us in?

Sara continued to stare at Rob, and as the memory started flooding back to her, she said, Oh my gosh, is it really you? Looking at Jim and Sue she continued, We were in grade school together. Kindergarten through second grade, and we had a crush on each other. I know that seems silly, but to us it was real. His crush consisted of bringing me gifts, often, and us throwing kisses to each other over the space of the school playground, but I admit he was the first boy to steal my heart, Sara confessed.

Rob visibly cringed over the gift comment. Ouch. I try not to remember the day my mom took me to your house to retrieve all the gifts I took from her and my sister’s bedrooms as tokens of my affection for the most beautiful girl in the world, Rob said with a charming smile in Sara’s direction. I was so humiliated, but she did let you keep the wooden shoes from Holland, remember?

Yes, though I am embarrassed to say I don’t have a clue where they are now. I’m sure Mom put them away somewhere. Wow, what a surprise to run into you like this.

Jim excused himself as he took Sara’s arm and pulled her aside. Turning his head so Rob couldn’t overhear him, he asked, Sara, are you comfortable with this situation? I know we’ve just met, but you seem like a nice girl and Sue would blame me if something happened to you. Sue and I have an engagement we don’t want to miss, but your safety is far more important.

Sara smiled and responded, Yes, I’m fine. I’ll be sure Rob and I stay in the public eye. Believe me, I have no intention of putting myself in an uncomfortable situation, but you’re so sweet to be concerned, she said as she gave Jim a gentle touch on his arm.

Turning back to where Rob and Sue were talking, Jim said, All right then. Sue and I are staying at the Shilo Inn if you need us, Room 210. Otherwise, I’m sure we will see you on the beach or in town sometime.

Maybe we can plan a shopping day, Sue said, All these shops will go to waste if I have to rely on Jim to shop with me.

I’d love that. I’ll be in touch, Sara answered.

Come on, Sue, let’s let these two get reacquainted, Jim said smiling.

Duke, come on, boy, let’s get you some lunch, Sue called out to the dog.

Suddenly Sara felt silly standing there in front of this man she didn’t totally recognize. Feeling like she was on a blind date, she smiled and said, Well…

Rob cleared his throat and repeated her sentiment, Well… and both of them broke into laughter.

Okay…so we can stand here feeling uncomfortable, or we can walk over to Starbucks and have a cup of coffee. Unless you’re hungry since it is about lunchtime. Or at least that’s what my stomach thinks, Rob said.

I was getting ready to have some lunch, so that would be nice. Anywhere in particular you would like to go? she asked.

There is a nice little restaurant up on Broadway. It has an outside patio, if that would work for you? Rob said.

Sure, sounds like a great idea, Sara smiled.

They walked across the sand making small talk about how much they loved the ocean. Rob told Sara he came at least once a year while Sara told him it was her first trip but definitely not her last. The beach and the sidewalks were crowded with people, in part because of the annual volleyball tournament getting underway. Working their way through the crowd, Sara couldn’t help looking at the shop windows as they made their way to the restaurant. She made a mental note to check them out later that day or the next.

They finally reached the restaurant and though it was crowded, they were able to get an outside table after a fifteen-minute wait. Silence filled the space as they reviewed the menu so they would be ready to order once they were seated.

This is so nice, Sara commented looking around.

I’ve always liked it here and the food is really good. It’s such a nice day to sit out here and watch the world go by. It has always been a favorite pastime of mine, Rob said. Then with a charming smile added, There is a restaurant up the street another block called Doogers. I’d love to take you there for dinner one night; their seafood plates are nothing short of a miracle. What do you think? Rob asked.

That sounds nice. I plan to stay in tonight, but any other night this week would work, Sara said. Her thoughts immediately drifted to the reason she was there. She didn’t really want to spend time with anyone. Her point of being here was to unwind, not get involved with someone, but a dinner couldn’t hurt…could it?

Sara…you still with me? Rob asked.

Yes, I’m sorry, I was just thinking, she answered.

Tell me about you…your life. I still remember the day you moved away, but I don’t know if I ever knew where you moved to. Rob said.

We moved up north to Lynnwood. Funny how I can drive from Lynnwood to Renton in thirty minutes now, but back then I remember it felt like we moved out of Washington to another continent.

How are your parents? Rob asked.

Sara took a deep breath before answering, My dad died about a year after we moved, right after I turned nine and my mom died last year.

Oh, Sara, I’m so sorry.

Thanks…how about yours? Sara asked.

We can talk about me later; right now I want to talk about you. I want to hear everything from the day you left. Sounds like some of it wasn’t easy, but I’m a good listener…trust me.

CHAPTER TWO

The conversation was easy between Rob and Sara, but even so, Sara was careful not to tell Rob about her inheritance. She talked about her dad’s accident at work and how she and her mom had moved north of Lynnwood to the city of Mukilteo. As she talked, it was as if Rob were recording her every word. Embarrassed to have been babbling for almost an hour, Sara looked down at her lunch plate before saying, So that is about all I’m going to share today…need to keep the mystery alive, she looked up and gave Rob a sheepish grin.

But his focus was no longer on her; instead his eyes were looking just above her right shoulder at something or someone else. Sara turned her head and saw the older lady he was looking at. The gal appeared to have had a liquid lunch as she stumbled slightly across the street. Sara looked back at Rob and noticed his tight jaw as tension filled the air around them.

Rob…are you okay? Do you know that lady? Sara asked. It was as if he didn’t hear her; he blinked, directed his eyes back to her, and said, Sara, it sounds to me like you needed someone to talk to…I’m glad it was me. Now how about if we head back to the beach?

Not sure what was going on with Rob but registering he didn’t care to discuss it, Sara answered, I think I’d like to rest up from my trip here so I’m going to head back to my hotel room if you don’t mind.

Of course not, I’m sure a nap would do me a world of good, too. I’m staying at the Shilo Inn; where are you?

I’m at the Hi-Tide at the other end of the beach, Sara answered.

Well, I’ll walk you to your room first, Rob said.

Really, that’s not necessary…I’m a big girl and can find my way. I might want to stop in a few shops while I’m at it.

I’d love to window shop with you…I promise to turn my stalker mode off if that is your concern?

With only a slight hesitation Sara said, Fine…but don’t say I didn’t warn you. I’m a browser.

****

After staring in store windows and venturing in some shops to browse, Rob and Sara worked their way down the road until they were standing in front of the Hi-Tide Hotel. Rob took Sara’s hands and held them for a few seconds as he told her how pleasant the afternoon had been.

I agree…and thank you for lunch, Sara said.

Sara had tried to pay for her lunch, but Rob had been very persistent lunch would be on him. It made Sara feel like it was a date, causing her some discomfort, but that didn’t stop Rob from taking the bill and settling it regardless of her protests.

You are very welcome. Now I’ll let you get some rest and I think I’ll do the same after a workout in the gym…have to keep in shape, Rob said as he flexed his muscles, making them both laugh.

Sara headed up the two flights of stairs and let herself into her room. Tossing her purse on the table and opening the slider, she laid down on the bed and fell asleep…dreams quickly filling the moments.

The light…it’s bright in her eyes…almost blinding but still Sara can see the car. As she makes her way toward the car, she looks down and wonders why she is walking in the ocean to get to her car. Suddenly, something is tugging at her right foot. She is still looking ahead with her car in view, but having to shake off the hold on her foot at the same time. Something is in the water and it is dangerous…she can feel it deep inside her soul…she has to get out now. She tries to run but her leg is getting harder to move. Then she sees Rob…he is turned away from her. She starts screaming for him to help her but he continues to stand with his back to her as he leans against her car. Why won’t he turn around…she screams louder as both of her feet get stuck and she is getting pulled down…why won’t he help her? Just as she is about to be pulled under the water, Rob turns slightly and smiles. Sara yells for help as the waves splash against her cheeks…

Sara sat up in her bed gasping for air. Realizing she had been dreaming, she touched her cheeks to find she had been crying. Tears, not the ocean, had moistened her face. As she wiped them away she thought about how often she had intense and sometimes scary dreams. Maybe she didn’t remember the good ones.