Zodiac Killers Books 1-3: Zodiac Killers, #14

By WL Knightly

For the first time ever books 1, 2, and 3 from WL Knightly's Zodiac series in a Box Set.

The Zodiac Killer #1

Detective Darek Blake thought the secrets of his past were long buried, but when a young girl is murdered in a familiar way, finding the killer will not only bring back memories he's repressed, but give him a golden opportunity to impress the FBI.

So, when his partner, Special Agent Lizzy McNamara digs up evidence that's a little too close to home, he's shaken to the core. The worst sin he's ever committed bubbles up, threatening to destroy his future.

Are the Zodiac killings a coincidence or is someone toying with him, and if so… who?


Capricorn Book #2

Being a suspect in a murder case never happens at a good time, but for Capricorn, Tad Halston, a recovering addict and former male escort who is on the verge of reclaiming his place as an in-demand male model, the timing couldn't be worse.

With bodies piling up and more evidence pointing to him for the murders, the last thing he needs is a series of anonymous messages demanding he make the next kill for vengeance. Can he murder the uncle who abused him and sent his life hurtling down this dark path, or will his sister become the real killer's next victim? For Tad, time is running out.

Now that Darek Blake has hired Bay "The Slayer" Collins as his divorce attorney, he realizes the man's help will come at a much higher price. Becoming an informant was never part of the deal, but with new evidence hitting too close to home, Darek is left with no other choice. With the killer targeting Darek's old friends, he has to decide which side is most important, his role as a detective, or his past as part of the Zodiac Society.


Pisces Book #3

With the suspicious death of Tad Halston, Detective Darek Blake finds walking the line between NYPD detective and Zodiac member a more daunting task than ever. Hannah Halston, Tad's sister, refuses to believe the official story that her brother went on a vengeful killing spree. She's doing her best to clear his name, which brings Darek's partner, Special Agent Lizzy McNamara, even closer to his criminal past.

Meanwhile, whoever is targeting the Zodiacs has their sights on Logan Miller. His life is complicated enough already, with his struggling career and bitter relationship with an older woman, but when he meets Hannah Halston at her brother's funeral, lending a sympathetic shoulder turns into so much more. He's determined to end things with the older woman until she tells him she's dying. Stuck between a rock and hard place, does he continue his relationship, or go where his heart tells him? Will the killer choose for him?

• Language: English
• Publisher: BrixBaxter Publishing
• Release date: May 19, 2019
• ISBN: 9781393568773

Book preview

Prologue

Alicia winced as the needle pierced her back again. As a child, she’d hated needles, but as an adult, she learned to love them. Or at least, she loved the liquid bliss they offered when they pumped heroin into her veins. But this was a needle of a different sort.

The tattoo gun buzzed like an angry hornet, stinging her skin over and over, but she savored the exquisite pain. Marking her flesh would seal the covenant with her master.

She pressed her face into the cheap mattress to stifle a groan. The bed reeked of mildew and stale sweat, and she tried not to think too hard about its previous occupants. A fleabag hotel like this in the slums of New York didn’t cater to the best clientele.

The leather collar around her neck bit into her skin as she swallowed a fresh wave of pain down. The tattoo artist was far from gentle. Alicia had never met the man before today. She’d been told to arrive here and follow instructions, so she did. The gaunt man with long, greasy hair had been waiting for her with his equipment.

They’d been at it for over an hour already, and the pain was even worse now than when it started. The tattoo needle hit a tender spot, sending a jolt of electricity through every nerve, and her entire body shuddered.

Stop moving, bitch, the man said.

Sorry, she muttered, shame heating her cheeks. The man wasn’t her master, but displeasing him would be just as bad.

When I’m done with this tattoo, it’ll be the prettiest part of you, he said with a smile in his voice. That’s not saying much, since you’re all skin and bones, but still, you’ll be a masterpiece. As long as you don’t fucking move.

Alicia forced herself to remain still as a corpse, reminding herself why she was enduring this agony. For the Master, the one who’d lifted her up from misery and shown her the first real affection she’d ever known. Alicia could suffer through this to show her profound gratitude.

Some time later, someone knocked on the door. The needle paused, and the artist went to answer it. Alicia’s heart filled with warmth, and a smile spread across her face. Her master would be pleased to see her lying there like a good little submissive, naked and with newly decorated skin. She wanted to look up to see the reaction for herself, but she remained where she was, waiting to do as she was told.

Her master was quiet, and Alicia could only guess the two were communicating through glances. Finally, the artist’s voice broke the silence. How do you like the fresh ink?

It will suffice. Stand up, my child.

The Master’s voice was powerful, but it warmed her soul like a song in her ears. Alicia scampered off the bed and stood dutifully with her head bowed and her hands clasped in front of her.

Turn around, her master commanded.

She turned and felt the light brush of fingertips graze her tender skin.

Yes, this will do just fine.

Alicia shivered with pleasure at the approving words. All the pain had been worth it just for that.

She heard the gurgling sound of liquid being poured into glasses, and the sweet smell of wine tickled her nose.

A drink to celebrate, her master said. You too, my child.

Alicia turned and took the offered glass.

The tattoo artist looked like he wanted to protest but shrugged. What the hell? Nothing like a drink with good company.

He tipped his drink back, and the Master smiled as he drank it down.

Alicia sipped her wine slowly. The taste of it was full and rich, and it warmed her insides immediately. When she reached the last drop, the artist’s knees buckled beneath him.

Instinctively, she lurched forward as if she could catch the man, but he was too far away. He hit the edge of the bed and bounced off onto the floor like a sack of potatoes. Alicia shrieked, and her master barked a command.

On your knees! The Master’s hand twirled, and Alicia spun around and faced the bed, her heart fluttering faster than hummingbird wings. Hot breath fell upon her ear. Your metamorphosis is almost complete. Just a little more, my child.

Alicia nodded, and her master jammed a rubber ball gag between her teeth so hard, she worried one of her teeth had chipped. She knew better than to scream or fight, though she did give a slight whimper. Her punishment would be worse if she struggled, but it didn’t stop the tears from trailing down her cheeks.

Something burned across her tender flesh, and pain seared her skin as her master made deliberate marks on her back. Warm blood trickled from the cuts, and only then, she realized she’d been stabbed a bit too deeply.

By then, she couldn’t move. Lethargy had set in, and she had no control over her muscles. Something had been in the drink, perhaps something to ease her pain? She still refused to think her master would do anything to harm her.

The carving continued, and she struggled to scream, but her voice was a choked whisper behind the gag. The knife pierced deeper in some places, again and again. Blood stained the white cotton sheets, and black spots formed in her vision.

Finally, her master stopped. Through the pain, Alicia prayed the punishment was over and it would be time for the soothing and aftercare that made it all worth it. Somehow, she was still clinging to hope that it wasn’t as bad as she thought, even as the bed grew wet around her.

The room went quiet, as did the beating of her heart.

Chapter One

Darek

Darek stumbled through a dark forest. His feet snagged on every exposed root and fallen branch, but he was determined not to fall and even more determined not to drop the heavy weight in his arms. Keep going. Keep moving. Run!

He cracked his shoulder against something hard, and he woke up in his bedroom. The dream faded, but the pain remained, a dull throbbing ache that was all too real. He glanced around, trying to get his bearings, and his wife Megan lay beside him, glaring at him. He realized she had punched his arm.

Was that necessary? he asked, rubbing the tender spot near his shoulder.

She narrowed her eyes at him. You woke me up again.

Shit, baby, I’m sorry. He looked at the bedroom window and saw it was still dark outside.

Save your damn sorries, Megan said. You’re sweating like an animal. Not to mention all your kicking and grunting. You’re lucky I didn’t do more than just punch you.

Darek laughed. Thank you for reminding me how lucky I am to be married to you.

Megan sat up beside him and frowned. Are you being sarcastic right now?

He didn’t know if he had been or not. He’d certainly felt like a lucky man when they’d gotten married three years prior, but these days, he wasn’t so sure.

Things between them had been strained lately, and her attitude was starting to grate on his nerves. He could easily forgive bad days and rough patches—he could be a pain in the ass himself—but more often, Megan’s comments were razor sharp and cut him deeply. Darek was guilty of a lot of things, but he was never cruel like she was. How could a person be cruel to someone they loved?

Despite his concerns, Darek wasn’t about to mention them now. He was tired, and he didn’t feel like fighting. He rolled over and scrubbed his face with his palms before smiling at her. You know I love you, baby.

Megan gave him a pouty look, but even though her side-eyed look was angry, he felt challenged to make her smile. He reached out and poked her side, tickling at her through the sheet she’d wedged between them. Beneath it, she wore only a pair of sheer cotton panties. Mean or not, she was still gorgeous.

Darek curled his body closer to her, and she rolled away, but that gave him the perfect opportunity to press himself up against her back. Let me show you how much I love you, he said softly.

Her elbow connected with his ribs. I don’t think so, mister. You missed your window by coming home late again. If you’re not going to do this on schedule, then I’ll never get pregnant.

Nothing says we can’t try now. He kissed her neck, trying to soften her defenses. Megan used to go crazy when he’d kissed that exact spot.

She slapped him away like shooing a fly. Before he could react, she got up and slipped her robe on. If you won’t let me sleep, I’m going to make some tea.

Darek sat up and reached a hand out to her. Come on, he said. I wasn’t trying to chase you out of bed.

She laughed, but there was no humor in it. You could have fooled me. First, you wake me up—

I had another nightmare, he said.

She rolled her eyes. You and your nightmares. Are you ever going to tell me what they’re about?

They’re always different, he lied. I’m sure it’s just stress from work. He grimaced the moment he said it.

Ugh, I don’t even want to talk about your job, she said.

Good, he said quickly. Let’s not—

But I just think it’s funny that you always make time to chase after dead bodies, but you can’t make time for me.

Darek growled in frustration. You make it sound so goddamn morbid. I solve murders. I catch bad guys. It’s important work.

She shrugged. Yeah, well, I’m important too.

Darek slid off the bed and put his hand on her shoulder. Of course you are. You’re the most important thing in my life. And I work long hours to get ahead, to make a better life for us. It’ll all be worth it. You’ll see.

Megan shrugged his hand away and turned her back on him. I doubt it.

A smarter man might have had the perfect response to thaw her icy demeanor, but Darek was tired and annoyed. You knew what my life was like when you married me.

And I’m starting to wish I’d kept the receipt.

Christ, Megan. Stop being so goddamn dramatic.

What? It just feels like you love your job more than you love me.

Right then, because the universe liked to kick him when he was down, his phone began to ring. At this time of night, it had to be someone from the precinct. He glanced down at the screen and saw it was his partner Max calling.

Just answer it, Megan said, leaving the bedroom before he had a chance to say anything else.

Darek stared at the empty doorway for a moment, hoping she’d come back but knowing she wouldn’t. Then he sat down on the edge of the bed, grabbed his phone off the night stand, and answered it.

Hello, he said.

Wakey, wakey, partner.

Max’s voice was too loud, and Darek pulled the phone away from his ear. I’m up. What’s going on?

You need to get down here, man, Max said. We’ve got a live one, and by live, I mean dead. I hear it’s pretty gruesome.

How gruesome? Darek asked, trying to keep the excitement out of his voice. He’d recently applied for a position in the FBI, and working a high-profile case would be a great way to get noticed. This could be the opportunity he’d been waiting for.

I hear it’s nasty. Meet me at the station. We’ll ride down together. Max didn’t seem to have any qualms about sounding eager. The bloody scenes they worked never fazed him. The guy could eat a four-course meal at a week-old body dump.

Sounds good, man. I’ll be out the door in five. He hung up the phone and raked his hands through his dark hair. No time to shower and shave. He’d have to go with the stubbled look. Darek threw on his clothes and headed out of the bedroom.

Megan was in the kitchen, lost in her phone and sipping a cup of tea.

I’m heading out, he said.

She nodded without looking up at him. Will you be late again tonight?

Darek scrubbed at his tired eyes. I’ll try not to be. I’ll text you.

Megan nodded again and said nothing. It felt like a dismissal, so Darek left.

Darek made it to the station in record time, but Max was already waiting in the parking lot, pacing around impatiently. Darek’s car had barely come to a stop when Max ripped the door open and climbed inside.

It’s about fucking time, man.

Detective Maxwell Smith lived to give Darek a hard time. As partners, the two were considered a powerhouse team, and they had formed quite the brotherly bond. Like brothers, they busted each other’s balls every chance they got.

Eat a dick, Darek said. I came as fast as I could. I even used the light. He pointed to the flashing red light on his dash and cut the thing off.

Max shut the door and buckled up. Well, don’t turn it off. Let’s haul ass. Did you get my text with the location?

Darek flicked the light back on and pulled out of the precinct parking lot. Yeah, it’s not the greatest neighborhood.

Max tapped the passenger door panel with his thumb. He always did that on the way to a body, like the rush of excitement was too much for him. No, it’s not. The place is an old hotel, way past its glory days. The place is struggling to stay open. But who knows? Maybe being on the news will give it the attention it needs. I mean, any attention is good attention when you’re struggling, right?

Someone should tell that to my wife, Darek said.

Oh damn, Max said. Trouble in paradise?

Yeah, I didn’t get home in time to fuck her. According to her, I missed my window to try to get her pregnant. Darek frowned. Although with her, she probably just said that because she was pissed I worked late again.

Max nodded. Right, well, I still stand by my original advice.

Your original advice was not to marry her, Darek said, grinning. You told me that all the way up the altar.

Max laughed. That’s what a best man is for. To provide a getaway car in case the groom gets cold feet. I swear, I’m never getting married. Nothing will end a cop’s career quicker. The job is hard enough, but the woman will always be what breaks you. Think about it. Do you know one of our fellow brothers who is married and happy? Fuck no. Marriage is a killer, man. It drives you to drink. There’s bitterness. No thank you.

Max had told Darek his philosophy on married cops too many times to count. Max had come to this epiphany after a fellow officer had taken his own life when his wife wanted a divorce.

Darek wasn’t quite so jaded about relationships. The right woman could make a man stronger and better. He just wasn’t sure he’d found the right woman.

He shook those dark thoughts away as he weaved through traffic. Even at this early hour, the streets of New York teemed with activity, but the cars choking the avenues moved to let him past.

As they got closer to the crime scene, the traffic thinned out, but he noticed more people on the sidewalks. Groups of hooded youths tried to look inconspicuous as he rolled by, and half-naked women tried to act casual, pretending they weren’t selling their bodies. They just saw the flashing light on his dash. They didn’t know their petty crimes weren’t his problem. He hunted the worst of the worst. The predators. The butchers. The killers. And he was damn good at his job.

Two patrol units had the street blocked off in front of the hotel. Darek didn’t recognize the officer who approached him, but he flashed his detective badge and the man let him through. He parked the car at the curb, and he and Max got out.

The building was ten stories high, made of darkly stained stone. The place might have been majestic once, but the passage of time had taken its toll. Cracks marred the facade, and chunks of mortar had fallen away, never to be repaired. The faded sign above the door said Hotel Capricorn.

The name stopped Darek in his tracks, and a shudder ran through him. Memories of his earlier nightmare echoed through his skull, and the gnarled scar on his shoulder itched. He rubbed absently at the place where he’d been branded as a child.

The hotel’s name had to be a coincidence. Darek’s past was long buried. He was just being paranoid.

You all right, partner? Max asked. You look like you’ve seen a ghost.

Darek scrubbed a hand over his face and nodded. I’m fine. Just thinking what a shithole this is. What a terrible place to die.

Max shrugged. One place is as good as the next. I mean, dead is dead, right?

Darek let out a long breath. I guess that’s true. Come on. Let’s go see what happened to this poor bastard.

Chapter Two

Darek

The poor bastard turned out to be a young woman.

She’d met her end in a seedy room on the fourth floor, surrounded by sickly green walls and threadbare maroon carpet. Her body lay face down in the middle of a sagging mattress, naked except for the blood staining her frail back. Her brown hair fanned out on the pillow, covering most of her face, and a pool of blood soaked the sheets around her.

As Darek walked closer, he took a deep breath, and the sharp coppery scent of her blood stung his nose. A sinking feeling hollowed out his gut, and sweat beaded on his lip. Gotta keep running. He quickly banished the thought.

Officer Coleman, the deputy on the scene, was busy on his phone, and Officer Ross Moody from forensics took photographs. They exchanged a quiet hello and went back to their duties.

Max made a sound of disgust. She’s been sliced up pretty badly. What’s that? Are those words?

Darek leaned over the girl’s body to take a closer look. Something had been carved into the flesh of her back, and he deciphered what he could through the blood. THE BEGINNING OF YOUR END, he read aloud.

Max winced. Someone’s sending a message.

Yeah, but to who? Us? Society? Darek’s eyes went to the tattoo higher up on her back, a circle diagram with symbols carved in each pie-shaped wedge.

Max leaned in closer. That’s some ink. Looks newish. Had to take a long time.

It’s the zodiac, Darek said.

Max laughed and shook his head. Yeah? I don’t know much about that shit. Astronomy and all that psychic bullshit. ‘Hey baby, what’s your sign’ was a little before my day.

Officer Coleman approached. It’s Astrology. Astronomy is an actual science, the study of space. Astrology is like how the alignments of the planet affect your life. It’s superstitious mumbo jumbo.

To some, said Darek. The zodiac was very real to some people, and they let it rule their entire lives.

I guess you’re right, Coleman said. I’ve got an aunt that’s into that shit. She spent a fortune having us all charted for Christmas one year. What a waste. Mine went into the garbage, and then I prayed for her soul. He laughed, putting a hand to the heavens.

"The ink does look fresh, Darek said. It’s leaking plasma."

Officer Moody snapped another photo as Darek leaned in. The arrow-looking mark was familiar to him. Too familiar.

A voice boomed out into the room from behind him, and he nearly jumped out of his skin.

"Morning, gentleman. I’d say good morning, but from the looks of things, I’m not sure it’s appropriate."

Darek spun around to see Chief Robbins standing behind him at the door. At his side was a gorgeous brunette, who Darek assumed was a representative of the hotel. She wore a tight pencil skirt, a silky blouse with a blazer, and dark red lipstick that captured his attention.

He quietly reminded himself of his wedding vows and walked over to shake the chief’s hand.

What have we got here, detectives? the chief asked.

Darek moved aside from the door to let his boss enter. The attractive woman followed.

It looks as if this is some kind of ritual killing, Darek said, gesturing at the woman’s back. Something to send a message. She’s got the words ‘the beginning to your end’ carved over a zodiac tattoo.

The woman walked closer to the body. The leather collar shows signs of a sexual nature, she said in a sultry voice with a southern accent. And the body is naked. Are you sure this isn’t a BDSM session gone wrong?

Darek moved to block her view. Um, miss, you shouldn’t get too close. He threw a glance over his shoulder at the chief as the woman gave him a blank glare.

Oh, my apologies, the chief said. Detectives Blake and Smith, meet Special Agent Elizabeth McNamara from the FBI. The chief put emphasis on the woman’s title, and Darek took another look at her.

Her beauty had disarmed him upon first glance, and he hadn’t paid attention to anything beyond her looks. He wondered if that happened to her a lot, or if she did it on purpose to throw people off guard. Either way, now he could see the hard, confident way she held herself and the way her sharp eyes roved over the crime scene, like she was cataloguing everything in her head.

The special agent held out her hand to shake his. Call me Lizzy. As I was saying, the carving could be a cover up. Someone wanting to make the killing to look like a ritual of sorts. Perhaps this is just a sex game gone wrong.

Darek laughed. A sex game? With all due respect, you don’t carve up another human like that for a sex game.

There are submissives who pride themselves on handling pain for their masters, she said.

Pain, yeah, Darek said. A little spanking, maybe even a little cutting, I get it. But this girl was carved up with a knife. And from all the blood, we can assume those wounds killed her.

Lizzy crossed her arms over her chest. My point, detective, is that we shouldn’t rule anything out just yet.

He looked around at Max and the chief, hoping for support, but they both kept their expressions neutral. The beginning of your end, Darek said. That seems so specific. I’m sure it’s a message, and it sure as hell wasn’t for the victim to see.

She shook her head. You’re approaching this backwards, detective. Letting your conclusion color your view of the evidence, when it should be the other way around. We need look at all the evidence before we focus on any one theory.

Darek threw his hands up in irritation. My conclusion is based on the goddamn evidence.

Anger flashed in her eyes. I know you’re eager to put this in a pretty box and call it a gift, but we need to do our jobs first.

Darek took a deep breath, ready to unleash his frustration on her, but his chief gave him a hard look. I think we’d all do well to remember we’re on the same team. Darek? Darek nodded at the chief. Lizzy? The woman smiled. Good. Darek, I’m putting you on this case with Lizzy. Now make nice, and shake hands.

Lizzy extended her hand, and Darek took it. Yeah, sure, Chief. Thanks.

The chief walked over to explain to Max that he’d be assisting. Max seemed fine with that, and he gave Darek a teasing smile as he took out his phone and walked out into the hall.

Others arrived on the scene from the forensics department, and Lizzy sprang into action, telling them what she expected. I want a lot of photographs of that tattoo, and when you’ve got what you need, I’d like to see that collar.

This tattoo is definitely fresh, Ross said before taking another photograph.

Lizzy stepped around the bed, careful to not disturb the scene. How fresh?

Darek frowned. Probably right before she was killed.

Ross nodded in agreement.

I agree, Lizzy said. She doesn’t seem to have struggled. So either she got tattooed willingly or she was drugged. The toxicology reports will tell us. Once we get her cleaned up and out of here, we’ll have a better idea, but I want to go ahead and check around at different tattoo parlors in the city. Someone might know something. Maybe this was a marking gone bad.

A marking? Darek asked.

Yeah, you know, like a master marking his property.

You still think this is BDSM? Darek asked. That’s one hell of a marking. Why mark her if he was just going to kill her?

I meant the tattoo was a marking, Lizzy said. The carving, I’d consider either a message, like you say it is, or it could be to throw us off what really happened here. It’s done hastily. The lines are hurried. They cut deep in some places. We know she was alive during it. Probably bled out. If the killer was drugged up too, maybe he didn’t know how deep he was carving? Maybe she writhed around so much, it just happened. She gave a shrug.

Chief Robbins paced back and forth. I want this locked down until you figure it out. If it’s some kind of serial killer or ritual killing, we’re keeping a tight fucking lid on it. I don’t need the whole city panicking until we know for sure what’s going on.

Lizzy smiled. I’m sure Sam will appreciate that.

That caught Darek’s attention. She must have been referring to Special Agent Sam Reed, the man who would decide if Darek was fit to join the FBI. He would be reviewing Darek’s application and history, and he’d make the final decision that would affect Darek’s future.

Lizzy used the man’s name fondly, like they were old friends, and he felt a little envious that this woman had achieved what he hadn’t. Still, if Reed was overseeing this case personally, this was the chance Darek had been hoping for, a chance to get noticed and moved to the head of the pack.

He looked back to the girl on the bed. Do we have an ID yet?

Deputy Coleman shook his head. I’ve got her prints on the way. I haven’t seen a purse or anything like a wallet.

Of course, Darek said. Nothing is ever easy. Fine, let me know as soon as the prints come back. Now, we need to figure out who did the ink. I want a list of all the parlors in town.

And the sex shops, Lizzy said. I want to find out what we can about the collar. It had to come from somewhere. Maybe the seller knows something about it. Maybe the killer bought it for her, or they bought it together.

Even though he didn’t think BDSM had much to do with the crime, he knew the collar was a big clue, and he couldn’t argue that they needed the information on that piece of evidence. Lizzy stepped out of the room to make a call, and Max came back in.

I can’t tell if you’re lucky or cursed, Max whispered.

What are you talking about? Darek asked.

Max laughed. You finally get your big case, and you get partnered up with a firecracker like her. You’ll either get that FBI job, or kill each other.

Darek shrugged. At least she’s easy on the eyes. It’ll be a nice change from staring at your ugly mug.

Max punched him in the arm, right where Megan had. You’re a married man, remember?

He remembered all right. He remembered so much, it hurt right in the balls. I know, and trust me, I’ll stay faithful. I love my wife, God help me, but a body like that can sure make you daydream, especially when you’re not getting any at home.

Poor bastard, Max said. If it’s any consolation, you’ll have plenty of time to fantasize. This case is liable to take a while. He patted Darek on the back. She’s a smart one, too. I’ve heard of her before. She had high marks. Supposedly, she had connections, and she used them. Her father was a retired detective or some shit like that.

Hearing that was a different kind of feeling in his balls; more like a kick. Figures. Daddy’s girl is getting all the perks. He hated to hear that not only had she had a wonderful relationship with daddy, but she had used it to climb to the top. Bitterness from his old man’s abuse crept forward and stirred the fires of resentment inside him.

Use this opportunity, man, Max said. It’s a fucked-up thing to say with a cold one three feet away, and though I’ll miss you like crazy, you need this.

I plan on it. Darek had to get his break soon. He wasn’t sure how much longer his marriage would last if he didn’t show Megan something she could be proud of.

She had always pushed him to advance before he married her, but he thought she pushed him out of support and love. Now, he was starting to think of her as no better than his abusive father, who he was never good enough for.

She wanted someone to brag about the same way his father had, and when they’d both run out of things to brag about, their disappointment had become apparent. His father’s disappointment manifested as hard-ass verbal abuse. Megan’s was more passive aggressive. Both were demeaning.

Darek looked around the room to see if anything else stood out. The arrow-shaped symbol in the tattoo made his scar itch again. The fresh ink was the second reference to the zodiac at the crime scene, the first being the name of the hotel. It’s three thing if I count myself. He rubbed the rough patch of skin on his shoulder. He had a bad feeling. It felt like more than mere coincidence.

He stared at the woman until his vision blurred. The nightmares he’d been having came back to him, but he refused to let them panic him. If he blacked out now in front of everyone, they’d all know something was wrong with him. He was much too close to achieving his career goals now to ruin things. He had to appear as stable as possible. Focused.

The forensics team did their jobs, taking samples, snapping photos, collecting every ounce of evidence, and scouring every inch of the room for clues. Finally, it was time to move the body. The coroner had them roll her over, and the collar was removed carefully and bagged before it was handed to Darek.

Lizzy held the bag up to the light to examine the collar. Lover, she said, reading the inscription tooled into the leather. Her voice was like warm honey, and it sent a lick of heat through Darek.

That’s an affectionate nickname, Darek said.

Lizzy shrugged. The name on the collar is often the owner’s, not the wearer’s. Not always, but in some cases.

How do you know so much about this stuff? Darek asked. He looked at her like he could have been making an accusation but was careful to let his tone stay on the more innocent side of the implication. If she was into kinky sex, it wouldn’t do his married ass a bit of good.

I know lots of things about people’s habits, she said. It comes with the job. It doesn’t mean I practice them. You know about murder, but have you ever committed one? She folded her arms and gave him a scrutinizing look.

He shook his head. Run faster. He banished the thought and forced himself to focus. I see your point. I just wanted to know if you’d studied up on it. You seem like you have.

Yes, and as I said, the name will tell us more about the master than the sub. As will the collar. This one, she glanced down at the bag, and Darek’s eyes followed, looks custom made. It’s good quality. Whoever did this thing, they knew how to tool leather. There can’t be too many people around the city who still do that kind of thing, if any.

Darek noted the silver studs on the thin leather strap. Maybe a biker? Someone who does custom pieces for bikes. They’d know the art. Or maybe the master did it himself?

That could be a possibility, Lizzy said. They take these things very personally.

Well, if they didn’t kill her, they’re going to take it even more personally.

She nodded. The more I think about it, the more I agree with you that this is a message. And whoever the killer is talking to is in for a world of trouble.

As her eyes met his, his blood turned cold, and the brand on his shoulder burned hot.

Chapter Three

Lizzy

The expression on Detective Blake’s face told Lizzy she had rattled him, which was good. She wasn’t trying to be a domineering bitch or an arrogant hard ass, but she needed him to know she deserved respect. Too many times, men in her line of work thought they had to be forceful and ultra-masculine. That kind of attitude had ruined partnerships before. The same had happened with her ex-husband. He had learned the hard way, too, that she wasn’t going to put up with that nonsense.

Do you think the message on her back was meant for her master? Darek asked. Like the master could have pissed someone off, and the killer is sending a message.

It’s a starting place until we find out who she is, Lizzy said.

How about we go grab a cup of coffee and talk about it? Detective Blake looked back over his shoulder at the dead girl, who was now being zipped into a body bag.

Lizzy wondered if it bothered him in the slightest.

Darek Blake was a good-looking man who had the whole tall, dark, and handsome thing down to an art, with his rugged, stubbly face and piercing green eyes. But the wedding ring on his finger was a disappointment and one he needed reminding of.

Coffee? Like a date? Shouldn’t you take that wedding ring off before you ask me out? She knew it was harsh, but she had to set boundaries.

Nah, it doesn’t come off, he said, and Lizzy thought she heard a tinge of regret. And I didn’t mean anything by it. I skipped breakfast and thought maybe you’d like to join me. We could talk about our theories. It’s strictly professional.

I’m sure we’ll be spending an uncomfortable amount of time together, so if you want to stop and grab something on the way back to the station, I’m game. But we’ll take my car.

Perfect, he said, tossing his keys to his partner.

Lizzy and Darek walked across the hall to the elevator, and Darek held out his hand to stop the door from closing. This is a pretty risky location for murder, don’t you think?

She stepped inside and shrugged. Depends on if the murder was premeditated or not. It still could have been an accident.

Do you really believe that? he asked.

I’m not sure what happened. I just think it’s a bit premature to call it when we don’t even know who the victim is. All options are still on the table.

She’d learned to be patient with the evidence and to never jump the gun. Every move she made was carefully considered, and she never showed all of her cards at once. She’d made mistakes in the past, focusing on theories that blinded her to the rest of the evidence, and she would never let that happen again.

Chief Robbins tells me you’ve applied to be an agent, she said. She analyzed his reaction, trying to get a feel for the man she would be working with.

His jaw clenched for a moment, and he let out a sigh as the elevator doors opened. Yeah, I’ve applied, but I haven’t heard anything yet.

They headed out into the main lobby and for the front doors.

So, this case could really get you noticed. She shook her head. Isn’t it horrible how one person’s tragedy is another’s fortune?

His brow furrowed. Yeah, I’ll be sure to thank the victim if I get the job.

Hey, lighten up, she said. I’m only giving you a hard time. I didn’t mean to make you feel guilty or anything. We take our opportunities where we can get them, right?

She knew a thing or two about that. She’d seen the opportunity to get away from her abusive father, and she had taken it. Her shitty family life had led her to where she was right now.

Not all of us have connections, Darek said as they walked out of the Hotel Capricorn. The sun was just starting to lighten the morning sky. I’ve had to work for everything I’ve gotten.

Lizzy grabbed his arm and spun him to face her. Are you implying that I didn’t?

Darek shrugged her hand away and met her gaze. I’m not implying anything. Don’t be so defensive.

Bullshit, Lizzy said. I’ve been hearing this crap since the academy. Yeah, I know some people, but that didn’t give me a free pass. If anything, I had to work even harder so I didn’t disappoint them. It wasn’t just my reputation on the line. It was theirs, too.

Darek glanced away. Look, I shouldn’t have said anything.

She shook her head firmly. No, you shouldn’t have, but you did. So I’m going to set the record straight, just so there aren’t any misconceptions going forward. I graduated at the top of my class, and I’ve closed more cases than you’ve had hot dinners. I’m damn good at my job, and I refuse to apologize for it just to protect other people’s fragile egos.

Darek nodded. Fair enough.

So here’s the deal, detective, she said. You need this case more than I do, but if you have some kind of problem with me, I can get you reassigned. Or we can put all this shit behind us and solve this fucking thing. It’s up to you.

I don’t want to be reassigned, Darek said. And not just because this case might be good for my career. As hard as it is to admit, I might be able to learn a thing or two from you. So, I’m sorry I gave you shit. It’s been a rough morning.

Apology accepted, she said, clapping him on the shoulder and shooting him a smile. Now you mentioned something about coffee? Maybe some breakfast?

Darek grinned. That would be good.

She led the way to her black Land Rover, and they climbed inside.

Nice wheels, he said, looking around at the leather interior.

Thanks, she said. Now buckle up. I drive fast.

She jammed her foot on the accelerator, making the tires squeal as she sped away from the crime scene.

Darek directed Lizzy to Dan’s Diner, a retro-looking greasy spoon with chrome paneling and neon lights outside. They sat across from each other in a booth with red vinyl seats, and she took a sip of her coffee. It tasted like ass, but she needed the caffeine. She’d been up late the night before. Darek looked as tired as she felt.

So you said you had a rough morning, she said, breaking the silence. Were you talking about the case, or was it something else?

He looked at her like he was considering whether to open up. I couldn’t sleep, I guess. I woke up the wife, and she punched me.

Lizzy’s eyes widened. Like in the face?

Darek grinned. No, just the arm.

Oh, good. For a second, I thought you were in an abusive relationship.

It was meant to be a joke, but Darek’s expression turned serious. She has her moments, but abusive is too strong a word. And I would know. My father was a real prick.

Lizzy leaned back and eyed Darek. Are you saying your dad was abusive?

Darek shrugged. He would have described himself as disciplined. Weakness wasn’t an option. You fell down; you got up. You got pushed down; you fought back, unless it was him doing the pushing. Then, you had better show some respect and know your place.

That sounds rough, Lizzy said.

Eh, I got through it, he said.

Believe it or not, I know what you went through, she said, surprised at her own honesty. She wasn’t sure why she would share this detail with Darek, a man she’d just met. Maybe it was because he had let his own guard down. Maybe she was just looking for a way in with this man who she would have to work with.

So, you had an asshole for a father, too? he asked.

He was an alcoholic, Lizzy said. He liked to get drunk and blame me for his problems. I left home at seventeen, which was as soon as I could.

She remembered the day that had happened. Her father had drunk himself into a stupor, and she’d driven all the way to Robert’s house in the rain. She shook off the memories of him as Darek cleared his throat.

So your father wasn’t some kind of cop? he asked.

Not my father, she said.

And here I thought a pretty girl like you had a leg up.

His laughter surprised her. It was warm and reminded her a lot of Robert’s.

Who said I didn’t? she asked, smiling.

He shot her a questioning look, but she remained silent, letting him chew on that tidbit for now. A little mystery was a good thing.

After breakfast, they headed across the city to the police station, and the two fell into a comfortable silence. It wasn’t until they were walking into the station that his curiosity seemed to get the best of Darek.

So, was it an uncle or brother? he asked. Surely, your leg up wasn’t a boyfriend or husband.

I guess it’s going to be another mystery for you to solve, Detective. She laughed and walked ahead of him toward the homicide offices.

Come on. Don’t I get any clues?

Yeah, I’ll give you one, but that’s it. It wasn’t a boyfriend or husband. She flashed him a wink, and his cheeks turned red with his smile.

Maxwell Smith approached, and she couldn’t help but want to smooth down his dirty blond hair, though she kept her hands to herself. He pulled off the disheveled, sexy look, but she was more of a hair in place kind of girl who preferred men who took things seriously.

I was just about to call you two, Max said. We have the identity of the victim. Her name is Alicia David. Twenty-three years old. She’s a local girl, works as an escort, and has a short record. She’s been in trouble for some petty theft as a juvenile and has one drug arrest from about a year ago. There’s no family to speak of. Her mother left the city years ago, and her father is unknown. The girl doesn’t have a soul to notify, other than a roommate.

Max seemed pleased with himself.

And whoever this ‘Lover’ is, Darek said.

Max leaned on his desk. I put a list together of tattoo parlors and sex shops in town. A few are in the same location.

Darek walked to the closest coffee pot and poured himself a cup of black. That’s interesting. Maybe we should start there?

Agent McNamara, said a voice from across the room. Lizzy turned to see Special Agent Sam Reed had finally shown up, as promised.

Agent Reed. Her smile widened, and she walked over to greet him with a handshake, which he quickly turned into a side hug. She noticed Darek’s suspicious look and knew he thought he’d figured out the leg up, but he was way off base. Agent Reed was simply her boss, one who liked to welcome her with a hug.

She preferred not to be so close to anyone, but she’d learned to give people the little things they wanted when it came to affection. The practice got her further along in life. She’d been told to use any opportunity as it came, each and every one, and she did. Another strategy she used was keeping herself looking good. She didn’t dress slutty or in anything too revealing, but she knew how a tight pencil skirt and pumps were effective when working with men. Sam Reed was no different.

You have some good news for me I hope, Agent Reed said. I don’t like the manner of death. Carving a message? It screams front page news. The man pulled an antacid roll from his pocket and chewed one of the tablets directly from the foil. He ate the things like candy.

Yeah, we’re doing our best to keep the details under wraps, Lizzy said. We finally have the victim’s name, and we have a few leads to follow. She was wearing a collar and had a tattoo taking up most of her back, which is where the carving took place. It overlapped a little bit. The victim was also wearing a submissive collar, so we’re looking into that as well. Couple that with the fact that she’s an escort, and I’m sure we’re looking at someone she’s been seen around with.

Sounds good, Reed said. Get out there, and let’s catch this bastard before we get a repeat. And while we’re talking about repeats, take into consideration any murder in the past with the same signatures. We need to know if we have a copycat, or if this is similar to anything we’ve seen.

She folded her arms across her chest and shifted her stance. Does it look familiar?

Honey, I’m so old, I’ve seen it all before. As the old saying goes, there’s nothing new under the sun. With that, he turned and headed in the direction of Chief Robbins’s office while she was still cringing over his term of endearment. She wasn’t anyone’s honey. The last person who