Anson

By Tallulah Grace

The twisted reign of a deranged serial killer threatens the low-country of South Carolina. Amid sweet magnolias, giant live oaks and ocean breezes, he stalks the heart of a close-knit family circle, seeking vengeance for his dead brother.

FBI agent Jeri Forbes and Interpol’s Ethan Barnes are all too familiar with the madman’s mission of terror. Together, they tracked him through the bayous of Louisiana, barely escaping with their lives.

As Anson brings the game to Charleston, Jeri and Ethan team up with old friends in an effort to catch the killer. Old friends become new targets for Anson’s revenge; no one is safe from retribution.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Kalyko Creations
• Release date: Feb 9, 2013
• ISBN: 9781301791811

Tallulah Grace

Raised in the foothills of the mystical Blue Ridge Mountains, I attribute my love of beautiful landscapes and fascination with all things paranormal to my environment. The settings and characters in my novels reflect my appreciation for natural beauty as well as a desire to explore the what-if’s of things unseen. Throw in a degree in Psychology paired with a strong interest in the workings of the criminally insane mind and you have a breeding ground for a psychological thriller.Becoming an author was not a conscious decision; I've always been a writer. Channeling a passion for story-telling into my livelihood required a giant leap of faith, one that I'll never regret as I truly love what I do.When I'm not writing, I enjoy antiquing, bead-weaving and sharing time with my incredible daughter and our two spoiled-rotten cats.

Book preview

ANSON

By Tallulah Grace

Copyright 2013 Tallulah Grace

Smashwords Edition

The names, places and events contained within this book are fictional. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead is purely coincidental.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including recording, photocopying or any other information storage and retrieval system without prior, written permission of the Author.

Prelude

Patchy fog, as thick as pea soup one second, and wispy tendrils the next, sailed past the car as it sped along the freeway. The smell of blood in his nostrils reminded him of the woman he’d left behind, sparking frustration from a mission left unfinished.

Reliving the fear in her eyes as she watched her friend’s life drip away, made his fingertips itch to show her the true meaning of terror. Her defiance had amused him, at first, made the game more interesting. Matching wits with the lovely Geraldine had pleased him, and he looked forward to it again. Leading her to Charleston had been the back-up plan; a just-in-case scenario, should the bayou prove a disappointment.

Even if his mission had been successful, Charleston had always been his next destination. He knew too much about the people there to simply walk away. As it stood, the people gave him power, leverage to exact his revenge on the bastard Barnes, with the added benefit of torturing sweet Jeri’s soul in the process. Frustration turned to pleasure as Anson realized that the bayou had been nothing more than a prelude. The real game was about to begin.

Chapter One

What about Sandblasters? Nick asked as he joined Kris in the shower.

Sounds more like a drink than a restaurant. Kris smiled at her husband, encouraging him to join her. I think you should keep it simple, something like ‘Nick’s Place’, or just ‘Nick’s.’

Nick shook his head as he closed the glass door behind him, then reached for his wife. Reminds me of Casablanca.

That was Rick’s, silly. Kris laughed as Nick wrapped his arms around her, nuzzling the back of her neck.

Rick’s, Nick’s, Schmicks, all too close for comfort. I want the name to stand out, be memorable. Like these silky white shoulders. I remember these. Nick trailed slow kisses along the line of wet skin.

Nice segway, Mr. Evans, but you’d better stop, or you’ll make me late for work again.

You can be late, Mrs. Evans, it’s your company. Work from home today, I can be your assistant.

That’s both exciting and a little scary, Kris laughed up at him. As much as I’d enjoy bossing you around, thoughts of turning you loose with my client list makes me cringe. You’d have them eating out of your hand in no time, probably send them all to my competition.

Now, baby, would I do that? Nick asked in mock innocence. "Though I would prefer to have you to myself, twenty-four-seven."

Exactly. Kris sidestepped Nick’s attempt to take the shower in a different direction. Even though, once your restaurant is up and running, you won’t be able to give me the time of day. Flouncing out of the slate enclosure, Kris tossed a pouty look over her shoulder at Nick.

Stunned at the sudden departure of his shower buddy, and the abrupt change in his plans for the immediate future, Nick narrowed his eyes at Kris.

Nice escape, Mrs. Evans. But don’t think you’re diverting my attention for long. He waggled his eyebrows in a way that made her laugh. As for the restaurant, my busiest time will be the development stage. Making decisions, working with the contractor, hiring staff, and so on. Once the thing is open, I’m all yours again. Nick grinned at her sudden scowl, then dropped the soap when he recognized the hazy look in her eyes.

What is it? What do you see? Grabbing a towel as he walked to her, Nick knew she didn’t hear a word he said, but it was gut instinct to ask. Without touching her, he stood silently, and waited for the vision to clear.

Seconds later, Kris shuddered violently as her eyes lost the hazy film.

He’s evil. Pure evil. Reaching for Nick, she molded herself to his warmth, trying to push the strange man’s image from her mind, but he wouldn’t leave.

Who, baby, who is evil? What did you see? Nick wrapped her in his arms, grateful when the shakes racking her body subsided.

I don’t know, but I know he’s horrible. Horrendous. Worse than Damien, even. Kris shuddered again at the brief memory of the man who tried to kill her last year. I only saw his face, but it was in his eyes, you know? Pure evil. Clinging to Nick, Kris squeezed her eyes shut, trying to block out the image.

Did you see anyone else? Nick asked gently, knowing better than to question Kris’s vision, or her assessment of the man she saw.

No, just his face. His hair is brown, he’s got a thin mustache, and a beard on his chin. What do you call that? A goatee. He’s Caucasian, with bright white teeth, like he’s just had them bleached. Kris rattled off his description quickly, hoping to make the image disappear if she gave it a voice.

That’s pretty specific. Have you ever seen him before? Nick guided her to the settee, just outside the bathroom door.

No. I would have remembered that face. Kris sat gratefully, pulling Nick down beside her. What could it possible mean? I’ve never had a vision like this before. Usually, I see someone, or something, I know. I’ve never had a vision about a stranger. Rubbing her eyes, Kris leaned back.

Maybe Dylan can help. Did you see enough detail to describe his image to a sketch artist? If so, Dylan can take it from here, see if this guy is on anyone’s ‘Most Wanted’ list, or whatever. You don’t have to figure this out alone.

Okay, good plan. And yes, I can’t seem to get rid of his image, so I’m sure I can give a good description. I’ll call Dylan to set it up as soon as I’m dressed. Relieved to have a way to try and make sense of the vision, even if it included pawning the whole thing off on Dylan, Kris stood, giving Nick a wobbly smile.

Thank you, she held her hand to his cheek.

For what? he asked, capturing her hand and pressing a kiss in her palm.

For knowing exactly what to say, what to do, to make me feel better.

No need to thank me for that, it’s in the job description. Page ten, paragraph six, lines seven through twelve. ‘Hubby shall always be…’ Nick’s attempt at a humorous diversion stopped when his cell phone rang. Leaning towards the bedside table, he snagged the phone to see Dylan’s face filling the screen. Speak of the devil, he muttered.

Kris shuddered again at his choice of words. Ask him to drop by before he leaves for work, she said, stepping into her closet.

Hey, buddy, you’re up early, Nick’s cordial greeting belied the concern he still felt for Kris.

What d’ya mean early? I’ve been up most of the night. Dylan’s haggard voice came through loud and clear. I need to speak to you and Kris, can I come over?

Sure, what’s up? Is Roni okay? Nick began tossing clothes on the bed. His shower would have to wait.

She’s fine. I’ll be over in a few, okay?

Give us ten to get dressed, then come ahead, Nick told him as he pulled on a pair of old jeans.

See you then. Dylan disconnected without another word.

Dylan will be here in ten, Nick called to Kris as he pulled a t-shirt over his head.

Why so soon? Kris called back from the depths of her closet. Did you tell him to rush?

Wasn’t my idea, he said he needs to talk to us both. Didn’t say much else, except that Roni’s fine. Heading for the stairs, Nick poked his head inside Kris’s closet. I’m going down to start breakfast, are you okay?

I’m good, Kris aimed a smile in his direction as she hurriedly buttoned her blouse. I’ll be down in a few.

Chapter Two

Dylan checked his watch for the third time since he’d spoken to Nick. He hated delivering news like this to his best friends, but he had no choice, and he’d just as soon get on with it.

You’re wearing a hole in the hardwoods. Roni’s voice surprised him; he thought she was still in bed.

Just a dent, not a hole. He couldn’t help but smile at his wife. I’ll stop soon. I’m going over to Nick’s, tell them about Jeri’s call. Why aren’t you still sleeping?

Junior had other ideas, Roni told him, lovingly rubbing her extended belly. I think he’s hungry. She opened the fridge and searched for something decadent.

Why don’t you walk over with me? I’m sure Nick’s already in the kitchen, whipping up something Junior might like. Dylan felt himself become calmer, the longer Roni was around.

Ummm, maybe so. Roni closed the door and made a mental note to get to the store. What time is Jeri getting in?

Her last text said eleven this morning. Heavy fog in Atlanta delayed their flight.

Have you called Nate? Roni slipped on a pair of flip flops and waited by the kitchen door.

I sent him a text to call me as soon as he wakes up. Haven’t heard from him yet. Dylan checked his phone again, then joined Roni to leave.

You seem more worried about this guy today than you did last night when Jeri called, Roni observed. She knew very well how concerned Dylan had become overnight. He’d spent the night on the computer after he thought she was asleep. It was cute, and sometimes annoying, how he still tried to protect her from anything negative. As if she couldn’t read his emotions as well as she read her own.

Dylan weighed his words carefully. He knew his wife could handle just about anything, but she was five months pregnant and he didn’t want anything to harm their baby. Still, she had to know what they were up against, what they all were up against. Anson was a threat to be taken seriously.

Sighing, he gave it to her straight. I am worried. This is one bad motherfu…sorry. Can you cover Junior’s ears?

Roni rolled her eyes and gave him an exasperated look.

Okay, sorry. Anyway, this sucker is one bad apple. He looked sheepishly at his wife. Is that better?

Yes, she grinned and took his hand. But seriously, we’ve a few aces in the hole, wouldn’t you say? No matter how bad he is. Between Kris’s visions, your insights, and my own little bit of magic, I’d say this Anson is the one who should be worried. Roni tilted her chin and started across the path between the houses.

It was Dylan’s turn to roll his eyes.

Little bit of magic? Lady, I’ve seen you pull lightning from the sky, so, yes, Anson should be worried. Apparently, he’s been researching us for two years, so it’s likely he knows better than to target you. That leaves him seven other potential victims that do not have the benefit of magic fingers.

I’ve already cast protection spells on everyone. Everyone except Jeri’s partner, what’s his name?

Ethan Barnes, Dylan practically snarled. He’s been trouble since day one.

Oh? Do tell, Roni encouraged as they made their way up Kris and Nick’s back stairs.

Later, Dylan smiled down at his wife. But I can tell you now that you won’t like it. Or my role in it, he thought, wincing slightly when he realized that Roni would most definitely be sympathetic with Jeri, not him, when he explained the whole, sordid tale.

Nick flung open the kitchen door, saving Dylan any further explanation.

Hey, guys, come on in. Have you eaten? I’m making omelets.

Morning, Nick, sounds yummy, what kind? Junior’s starving, do you have any chocolate sauce? Roni breezed into the kitchen, as much at home here as she was next door.

Umm, sure, I think. Check the pantry. Nick raised his eyebrows at Dylan and mouthed ‘chocolate sauce?’ behind Roni’s back.

Dylan shrugged and grinned. It’s not mine to reason why, he murmured.

Kris will be down in a bit. Coffee?

Please, but I’ll get it. Dylan found the mugs and poured himself and Nick a cup. Sugar, would you like some tea? he called to Roni, still rummaging in the pantry.

No, thanks. Coming out of the pantry with her hands filled, Roni spread her treasures on the counter. Your house is better than the Piggly Wiggly.

Nick grinned, then nearly gagged when he looked down at her supplies. Are you seriously going to put that on my omelet? Anchovies, peanut butter, chocolate sauce, and a variety of tomato pastes stood in a row.

Not yours, per se, unless you want to, Roni answered him as she opened the anchovies. But mine, yes. All except for the anchovies and peanut butter. Those I just want to smell. She illustrated by taking a deep sniff of the contents in the jar.

Quickly turning back to the stove, Nick flipped an omelet. Whatever floats your boat, he told her, chuckling. How is Junior, by the way?

He’s great, thanks. Roni opened the peanut butter.

How long are you guys going to refer to my nephew as Junior? The kid’s gonna come out with a complex, Kris called as she came down the stairs.

"Only if he turns out to be a she, Roni smiled at her friend over the jar of peanut butter. Morning."

Still craving nuts? Kris asked sympathetically.

Of every variety. And shellfish. And coffee. I swear, if it’s something I’m not supposed to eat, I develop a craving, Roni sighed as she closed the lid on the peanut butter.

Sounds like the little one has a perverse sense of humor. I like it, Nick grinned as he plated the omelet. You can have the first one, Mama. He handed the plate to Roni and watched as she slathered it with chocolate sauce. Shaking his head, he turned back to the stove.

Thanks for coming over so soon, Kris spoke directly to Dylan. I’m not sure what to make of this one, hopefully you can help.

Make of what? Has something happened? When? Why didn’t you tell me? Dylan was instantly on alert.

My vision, didn’t Nick tell you? It’s why I needed to see you this morning. Kris, alarmed by Dylan’s response, sent her husband a confused look.

Sorry, babe. Dylan said he needed to talk to us, but I didn’t get a chance to tell him about your vision. Nick flipped the eggs.

Let’s start from the beginning. Dylan walked to Kris and led her to the sofa. You had a vision this morning?

Yes, but it was unlike any other. I only saw a man’s face, no one else. He’s evil, Dylan. No doubt about it. Kris shuddered. We were hoping you could set us up with a sketch artist, then see if you could find him. Maybe it sounds silly, but I’ve got a bad feeling about this one.

Dylan searched Kris’s face a moment, then pulled out his phone. It only took a few seconds for him to find an image of Anson.

Is this him? He showed the screen to Kris. She gasped.

Yes, but in my vision he had a goatee, and a mustache, and brown hair. But his eyes are the same. Who is he?

His name is Howard Anson. He’s the reason I needed to see you both this morning. Dylan’s voice was grave. What else can you tell me about your vision?

Nothing, it was just a close up of his face, smiling. His teeth were very bright.

He’s changed his appearance, but we knew he might. It’s one of his trademarks. Just then, Dylan’s phone buzzed.

Nate, good timing, he answered.

Morning, Dylan, what’s up? Nate’s jovial voice reflected a man without a care.

Roni and I are here with Nick and Kris. Can you and Cassie join us via the computer? It would save time if I could explain this only once.

Sure. Cassie’s still in bed, but I’ll take the laptop upstairs. We’ll be with you in a few.

Good deal. Apologize to Cassie for waking her up like this.

Are you kidding? Seven months pregnant, and confined to the bed, she’ll love the diversion. Besides, she’s already awake, just waiting on breakfast. Talk to you soon. Nate hung up.

She won’t love this diversion, Dylan mumbled to himself.

Hey, man, eat this before it gets cold. Nick slid another omelet across the breakfast bar. And before Peg gets it. He eyed the cat meaningfully.

Pegasus, a seriously overweight tabby, stopped mid-stride as he ambled towards the bar and began cleaning his paws. Nick could almost hear the wheels turning.

Don’t mind if I do. Dylan sat down next to his wife. Kris, would you mind setting up the laptop?

Already on it. Kris brought the computer to the bar, ready to receive Nate’s call. The sense of dread that had accompanied her vision felt heavier since Dylan showed her the man on his phone. It was all she could do to sit patiently, and wait for the story to begin.

The very last thing she wanted was to eat anything, but Nick looked so cute when he passed her an omelet, that she couldn’t disappoint him. Besides, Peg would finish whatever she couldn’t. Glancing down at the cat, she smiled to see him already sitting beneath her stool.

Poor Cass, Roni said as she licked chocolate sauce from her fork. I can’t imagine being cooped up in bed for the next two months. I’ve never had so much energy. Being preggers rocks, most of the time. She eyed Kris’s coffee enviously.

I’ll take your word for it, Kris laughed, sliding her coffee cup over to Roni, so she could get a good whiff. I still can’t believe you guys both got pregnant at almost the same time. Kris shook her head. Glad I didn’t drink that water.

I don’t know what you and Nick are waiting for, Roni handed Kris her coffee. Just think how much fun it will be for all of us to have toddlers running around at the same time.

We’re too selfish to have a baby, at the moment. Nick came to his wife’s rescue. She didn’t want her friends to know how much trouble they were having conceiving a child. I want my wife all to myself, all the time. He squeezed her hand in support. Besides, you can’t have wild monkey sex all over the house with a child in the mix. It would scar the poor thing for life, Nick winked at Roni.

Laughing, Roni held up one hand. Please, it’s too early to talk about wild monkey sex.

Dylan watched the exchange, hating even more that their good mood would soon be over.

The jingle from the laptop signaled that Nate and Cassie were on the line. Kris punched the keys, making sure that the screen faced all of them.

Hey, guys, what a great idea! Cassie’s smiling face filled the screen. I love having breakfast together. She looked radiant, glowing from the inside out, so happy that her eyes sparkled.

Dylan cringed, just a little, knowing that her smile would soon disappear. Cursing silently, he turned towards the screen.

Hey yourself, Cass, you look great! Is Nate with you? he asked, not wanting to burst their bubble, but knowing he had no choice.

Right here, Nate said, joining Cassie on the screen. Morning, everyone.

Oh, my God, Cassie, you look fabulous! Roni gushed. There’s a white light all around you, I don’t think I’ve ever seen you look more serene.

Roni’s right, you look amazing. What’s your secret? Kris chimed in.

Cassie blushed, then looked quickly at Nate. I’m just happy, I guess. But thanks, y’all. It’s nice to hear.

How’s the little one? Kris asked.

Restless. I think he’s almost as tired of this bed as I am, Cassie laughed. But he’s good.

Did you find out for sure that he’s a he? Nick asked before anyone else could.

No, but the odds are good. Cassie smiled at him. "Still,