The Fate in Our Blood: Souls of Elkwood County, #2

By Simi Sunny

All have come to normal for Gwendolyn Hill. Business is running smoothly for the funeral home, and there's peace between the living and the dead. No more flirty demon and pestering competitors. Of course, spirits come for her need, but still, nothing would disturb the peace. 

 

Or so she thought. 

 

And then there's Mickie McCarron, whom she has teamed up after seeking aid. She is an indie reporter who is living the life. Nothing better than scouting for news while solving mysteries and speaking to the dead. That's Mickie's calling. And her trusted grandfather—-a veteran detective—-is there when she needs it. But she needs more help than she can get when it comes to spirits, for she can't do it alone. 

In the second book of Souls of Elkwood County, two girls will get spirits to cross over, while they find the truth behind every case. Or so they will think, when new darkness arises for spirits alike. It will take more than a scale and a feather and detective skills to combat what lies ahead for them.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Simi Sunny
• Release date: Feb 28, 2021
• ISBN: 9781393952787

Book preview

Prologue 

The bell rang, signaling the kids it was the end of a school day. Everyone rushed out of here, not caring what the teacher said about reading a chapter of their science textbook. All they cared about was going home and enjoying the weekend with some fun plans. 

The girl, on the other hand, was in no hurry to be out of school. 

As she gathered her belongings from her desk, the twelve-year-old girl walked out of her science class and toward her locker, fortunate it was nearby. And when she placed her belongings inside, she grabbed her little notebook and pen before closing the door, ready to get some scoop. After all, the tween reporter was the head of the newspaper and the only one who was working. It was a mystery, but the girl didn’t mind because she loved working alone. 

From hall to hall, the girl searched for the story she needed to expose the truth. She knew that the school does not accept such news, but she would give them out outside of school whenever kids are out. And, of course, she had to use it under a different name to keep her identity a secret. So far, nobody suspected a thing whenever the stories the young reporter had written since they were too busy to read them. 

After a minute or two, she descended the stairs and into the basement, where she heard the commotion down the hall. An anonymous tip told her that a couple of kids were planning something big, and they were going to have a meeting after school. And it looked like the anonymous tip was right, and the girl was going to find out soon enough. So she tiptoed over to the group and then hid behind the wall so that the ace reporter would document what was going on. 

Next week is school pride week, the tall kid announced, which the reporter assumed to be the leader. So we need to come up with a plan to prank on everyone in school. 

I agree, boss, the boy with front bangs announced. 

I know it will be boring, the other kid exclaimed, which the reporter knew from class. Even though the student was a girl wearing tomboy clothes, her friends accepted her in the group. I’m tired of seeing cheerleaders dancing around and forcing us to like the school. Bleh! The girl in the group scrunched her nose as she shook her head in disgust. 

And I hate all the activities we have to do every year, the boy wearing a red cap said. 

Which is why me and my boy Mac came up with a new plan, the leader added, followed by a devious smirk he made. Mac—-standing beside the leader—-pulled out a small balloon, and the kids were holding their noses. Even the junior reporter had to close her nostrils from the putrid odor radiating in the hall. 

Why does it smell like someone peed? the boy with the hat asked. 

That’s because we filled the balloons with pee, nimrod, the leader snapped. And we’re going to dump them on the cheerleaders, and then we will ruin the school with this nasty stuff. 

Good plan, boss! The girl grinned. Will you be dumping them from the ceiling? 

Yep, and my brother and his friends are going to help. 

Oh, this plan will be so good. One of the kids giggled. 

I know, and we’ve come so far that we will not let our fun burst again.

Everyone high-fived each other, knowing this was going to be a success. Not unless the young reporter could stop this. As much as she hated pride week, she couldn’t let them ruin something for everyone, including the cheerleaders. Luckily, she documented everything she heard, so all the girl had to do was take a picture and present the evidence to the principal. So while the group of kids were busy celebrating, she took a picture, but the snap of light caught their attention. Stupid camera, the girl thought bitterly. Why can’t people make a camera with no flash?

A few seconds later, there was silence. She was going to take a peek if the group was gone, but the young reporter was grabbed and pinned to the wall. The leader’s frown greeted her. Well, well. If it isn’t the young reporter who works for the school’s newspaper or, should I say, the infamous Mickie McCarron. 

So you figured it out, huh? She smirked even though she was cringing on the inside for being revealed. 

How long have you been down here? The leader glowered. 

I heard enough that you were going to ruin school pride week, which I will not let you do since everyone worked hard on it. I will tell the principal no matter what. 

The group was looking worried by Mickie’s proclamation, and they turned to their fearless leader for answers. What are we going to do, boss? the tomboy asked. 

But the leader ignored and asked, How did you know we were here? Nobody knew about it. 

Without hesitation, Mickie exclaimed, I got a tip from someone you know. I believe he was in your group, so he told me what happened. 

Recognition dawned at him, but the leader laughed before talking. Well, I got news for you: he’s dead. 

YOU’RE LUCKY YOU DIDN’T get in trouble, young lady, her mother exclaimed bitterly while driving out of the parking out. I cannot believe what happened when I received a phone call from your school. 

At least nothing severe happened after the janitor found the kids surrounding Mickie, while the tomboy in the group was beating her up. The kids ran away, but luckily, the janitor escorted Mickie into the principal’s office so she could tell him everything that happened, even the conversation she heard. The principal was dubious about her claim until Mickie gave him the picture of their meeting and the notes she wrote. It gave the principal the decision to suspend the kids responsible for Mickie’s injury along with the plan to trash school pride week. 

I’m very disappointed in you, her mother said after going over what happened. 

Mickie’s jaw tensed from her mother’s accusation. For stopping the kids from school?  

For getting involved in this mess! Why did you have to be involved in situations like this? You could’ve been in serious trouble. At least the janitor stopped you from getting more injuries. 

Mickie narrowed her eyes, but she couldn’t face her. Mom, did you even hear what the principal said? I did the right thing by telling him what was going on. I had to do something. 

Yes, but you’ve also forgotten that you were snooping around in school, invading one’s privacy, she countered. And this results in you getting hurt. You could’ve let the school handle this, you know? 

Mickie gritted her teeth as her mother spewed each word; she was itching to fight back, but there was no use of convincing her mother. And as she parked the car, Mickie’s mom announced, You are grounded for two weeks. No TV, no computer, and no going out. 

Mickie’s eyes shot up in shock. But mom—- 

And I’m confiscating your camera while you’re grounded, and your punishment starts today, her mother continued. So please, darling. Give me your camera. Don’t make it any worse than it already is. 

She didn’t want to part with it, but Mickie had no choice. Gazing her camera down, she relinquished it to her mother, which she took it before heading out of the car. Mickie would have to survive two whole weeks without her beloved contraption. 

Do you want me to ice your eye or put some antibiotic cream on your lip, honey? 

I’m fine doing it on my own, she said bitterly, though her mother did not flinch from her bitterness. 

Well, okay. 

The mother and daughter went inside for a few seconds of silence. Mickie’s mom went over to the kitchen, probably putting the camera safely where she could not find it, and then headed out of there. I’m going to go get some groceries. Do you need anything before I go? 

Mickie stood in the hall in silence, not eyeing on her mother. 

With that, she left the house without even imploring. And when the door closed, Mickie went over to the window, seeing that her mother’s car was no longer in the driveway. At least she has some time to herself before her parents get home. 

I see you had a tough time at school, kiddo. 

Well, so much for peace and quiet. Mickie thought. 

She shifted her gaze to see a gentleman beside her, wearing a blue suit and tie and a bowler’s hat. He smiled down at Mickie, but she couldn’t quite turn that frown around. And you sure got into some kind of scrap, he added lightly. What happened? 

I don’t want to talk about it, grandpa. She cast her eyes down, but Mickie’s head was lifted with the swift of her grandfather’s hand. Hey, don’t do that. 

Sorry, lass, but I can never leave you alone. 

Mickie pressed her lips into a thin line before sighing, giving into her grandfather. 

So tell me what happened. 

So Mickie told her grandfather about how she went down to the school’s basement, seeing what was going on and the bully’s plan to ruin school pride week, all thanks to the anonymous tip who was a member of the group. And because the bully’s found her hiding, it resulted in Mickie getting into a fight. The principal was happy about Mickie coming forward, but her mother was not. 

I’m sorry, lass, her grandfather exclaimed after Mickie finished her story. 

It’s like she didn’t want me to help. I can’t understand how you two are related. 

Her grandfather chuckled while shaking his head. Now, now. Don’t be saying things like that. I know your mother was trying to protect you like any parent would. And I think the scratches on your face and being called to the office might have caused your mom to panic. When Mickie glowered, her grandfather quickly added, Hey, don’t worry. I’m glad you did the right thing by not only helping a classmate, but also stopping his friends from wreaking havoc. And who knows? If they were not stopped, it might lead them to the wrong path.   

Mickie sighed. I just wished my mom would see that, grandpa. I just want to help people like you did. 

Her grandfather brushed his hand over her cheek, which the only thing the young girl felt was a warm breeze. Your mom will understand one day. Not now, but later. For now, keep doing what you love best. 

That brought a smile on her face. 

Now go fix yourself up, kiddo, and do your homework.

Chapter 1: 

Mickie 

I CURSED UNDER MY BREATH as I tried to get to my office. I didn’t hear the alarm go off, but then again, I stayed up late for a secret mission I had to do. And I didn’t care if I didn’t have my umbrella with me. Since there was no hint of rain, though, I could smell it coming. So I had no choice but to rush over there while carrying my notes and laptop in my bag. 

From behind, someone pushed me, making me spill some on my coat and on the ground. As much as I was grateful that there was no harm inside my bag, I growled as I saw the person who pushed past me. But there was no time for me to march over to the person, grab him by the throat, and assault him with the remaining fiery liquid from my cup. Instead, I mumbled a few curse words and hurried inside my office. 

Once I arrived, I inhaled and sighed, relief washed over me when I turned on the lights of my office, while the heater warmed me instantly. At least this would make up for my morning. As I draped my coat on the rack, I placed my notes and my laptop on my desk before sitting on my seat as I skim through last night’s notes and my discoveries. I was reading about how Mrs. Takoni—-an elderly lady I stumbled upon—-saw these figures were trying to get into her home. She claimed they were going after her for her famous cuisine that she made. And little did I know, this woman was hallucinating, and that incident actually happened way back when she was young and sane enough to run her restaurant. 

I sighed from looking at my notes. Despite that, this search was a waste. I told her story through my blog—-leaving out the details of her hallucinations. Thank goodness I asked her loved ones and co-workers who were close to her. 

My phone buzzed for a moment, and I pulled it up, only to see a notification. I could’ve dismissed it, but my phone kept buzzing with excitement with all the constant notifications. So I figured what the fuss was about. 

And of course, it was nothing huge to me. 

Only a photo of me at my cousin’s wedding. She sure had to tag me, as everyone raved on how she appeared. Even my own parents were praising how good I appeared, even though I was blushing and scowling from the photos. Everyone else, they were happy and having fun.

Now it wasn’t the time to groan over it.

As I typed away my story, my telephone rang from the corner of my desk after I picked it up. Hello, this is Mickie McCarron. What can I do for you today? I asked, sounding professional even though I feel tired. 

Ah, yes. Hello. The feminine voice coughed before continuing. Something terrible has happened. He’s a good friend of mine and I don’t know how to put this delicately, but I believed he was murdered. 

Murdered, you say, I asked with a hint of interest. Why do you think that? Were you there? 

I cannot explain, she stated. but you must help me. My friend’s body is around Maple street, so please help him. Help me. 

I was about to question the caller, but she hung up, leaving me aghast. And to think this day would get slow until I received a call. Whatever it is, I must know the truth. So I drowned the last of my coffee, grabbed my coat from the rack, and exited out of my office. A story was calling me for sure, and I needed to get to the scene and get all the info I needed. Too bad that I didn’t have time to eat, but it will have to wait.

Luckily, it didn’t take me too long to get to Maple street since it was a ten-minute drive. But unfortunately, the police arrived at the scene, while street dwellers and a few reporters were being blocked by other police officers and roadblocks. So I had no choice but to push my way through the crowd and get to the front. Excuse me, I hollered to a policewoman nearby. Mickie McCarron, here! 

I don’t know who you are, and I don’t care, the woman quipped, eyeing ahead of the crowd while blocking pedestrians like myself. 

Well, I work closely with the police station you’re working at. If you don’t mind me, I would like to help with the investigation while conducting a report. 

Yeah, right, she sneered. So does every reporter here. Look, I don’t have time to hear anything coming from your mouth, and I suggest you stay back and let the police handle this. Otherwise, you’ll be impeding our investigation. 

I narrowed my eyes on the policewoman, my boiling anger increased. My morning was worse, and I didn’t want to make it even more terrible by picking up a fight with this official. But hey, what other choice do I have? Now, look here, you. I do work closely with the station. And if you don’t believe me, then by all means—- 

You say you’re Mickie MaCaron? A man came in from behind, giving us a friendly smile. When I nodded, he explained, It’s okay, Sheryl. She’s with us. 

Despite Sheryl giving me a soured look, she stepped aside, letting me in the crime scene, which I was grateful if it weren’t for that man. Still, I didn’t need any help from these people. I could’ve gotten answers my own way. Even though what I said was true, some officers didn’t like me being in their business. But I pay no mind at all for their hatred. 

Pay no attention to Sheryl there, the man whispered beside me. She just started working with us. 

Um, okay. I arched my eyebrow in question as the man led me to the crime scene. I’m sorry, but do I know you? 

He stopped and turned to chuckle. Oh, where are my manners? The name’s Kent. He extended his hand toward me, though there was a hint of cockiness from the corner of his lips. Playful but cocky, which I despised. As much as I don’t enjoy having interactions when we’re in the middle of investigating, I shook his hand anyway. 

It’s a pleasure to meet you, sir, I answered. You’re new, too? 

Yeah. It’s not easy being transferred from one police station to another. 

That’s nice, I commented and went over to the body. 

Oh my, what happened to your coat? Kent said as he looked down upon the stain I inadvertently made. 

Nothing, I exclaimed, trying not to snap at the man before me. Just spilled some coffee, which is no big deal. Let’s just focus on the case that’s in front of us. 

A man, no older than me, laid on the floor at an uncomfortable position. There were no scratches on his face, but dry blood surrounded his head. And there was no sign of struggle, either. Very peculiar. 

Yeah, it looks like he was in bad shape, Kent addressed and pointed at the concussion on his head. We can’t find the murder weapon, so it’s a possibility that something hit him in the head by accident and that nobody was here at the time to help him. 

So much for my morning, I thought miserably. I got an anonymous tip from someone, and this led me to nothing. I didn’t know what was the point of coming here until I eyed on the figure standing before his body, looking sullen. Then, the figure was looking at me, and his eyes widened in recognition. Mickie? 

Even I was shocked by this man, calling me by my name, yet I don’t even know who he is. Before I could whisper quietly to him, he vanished as the paramedic team covered the body and transferred it into a huge, black bag. Damn it! I needed answers, and this man was getting away. 

Miss? Kent tapped my shoulder, made me alert that I was in a crime scene. Is everything okay? 

A few seconds of hesitation, I nodded and smiled sweetly. It’s fine. I don’t suppose you have any info on this man by any chance? 

HOLY SHIT, I BREATHED when I leaned against the door of my office. I didn’t want to say anything when I realized who’s the victim that died. I didn’t think Kent would reveal the person’s name to me, even though I work closely with the police. Sometimes, police officers would withhold information from me, afraid if I slander, but I didn’t care anyway. But Kent, though, he blew my mind when he told me who it was. 

As I made my way to my desk, I skimmed through the notes from today. It still puzzled me on what I should do until someone whispered in my ear, What are you up to? 

I flinched and noticed grandpa was towering over me, his hands on his coat pocket while grinning. Grandpa, I hate when you show up like that. 

Aww, come on, doll. I just want to liven things up for you. 

But it’s so annoying, I grunted before releasing a sigh. And to answer your question, I’m trying to figure out what’s going on. I received a weird phone call that led me to a crime scene. 

Really? He leaned over to my desk, crossing his arms while his face lit up in interest. Do tell. 

You’re not going to believe who passed away. I pulled out my old yearbook from middle school, flipped to the page where they have all the kids’ faces and names, and pointed to the kid with glasses and skinny frame. From the way grandpa’s jaw dropped a little, he recognized the kid since I told him about the classmates from school. 

Mac Dawson. He was with a group of kids from my middle school, and he was like the geek in it, which no one in the group paid no mind to. It’s been so long since I last saw him that I barely recognized but, somehow, Mac recognized me. 

I’m still surprised a kid like him joined a group of nasty kids that ruffled you up, grandpa commented. Now I still can’t believe he’s dead. How did this happen? 

I shrugged. I don’t know, Grandpa, and that’s why I’m trying to find out. Sad news is how. I scrunch my face into a frown as I ruffled my hair in frustration, but I ceased when I felt grandpa’s warm hand on my shoulder. 

Take it easy, lass. Why don’t you have a cup of coffee? 

Another cup wouldn’t hurt. Besides, I didn’t enjoy much this morning after that incident, so why not brew one in my office? So I closed the book, got up from my desk and went to the sink area, where the coffeemaker was at. As I set it up and waited for the coffee to brew, grandpa stood beside me. I wish I had some coffee. Been so long since I had one. 

Sorry if I’m teasing you by drinking it, I joked. 

You sure have been working all night. 

No shit since I had to solve a mystery in Mrs. Takoni’s place. I rubbed my forehead to calm my nerves. I did everything for nothing, but at least I tried and got some story out. 

Grandpa pressed his lips into a thin line. Don’t you want to take a day off and enjoy yourself? 

I shook my head. No rest for a reporter like me. There’s nothing I would rather do than write factual events and get to the bottom of things. I could be the next Nancy Drew, but maybe better. I chuckled, but it died since exhaustion took over me. 

When the coffee maker stopped brewing, I grabbed a mug from the cupboard and poured the coffee before wrapping the mug with my hands. The scent and warmth of that strong liquid brought me to a smile. Nothing’s better than coffee, I said. 

Now you’re making me jealous, grandpa whined playfully. 

Shush, I’m on my happy break. 

Blowing my drink softly to cool, I took a couple of sips of my drink and pondered. There has to be some connection with the call and Mac found dead on Maple Street. Then, the wind knocked me down, almost spilling my coffee, but I saved it. Hey, what—- 

My eyes roved over to the yearbook that was out on my desk, and it opened where the pages started flipping. As I crept closer, the pages stopped to where not only Mac’s picture, but there were others I knew were crossed off in red ink. 

This looks bad, Grandpa noted, his face stern. What could this mean? 

I wasn’t sure either, but my guess was that these victims were in big trouble.

Chapter 2: 

Gwen 

WAIT A MINUTE, I SAID as I rubbed my forehead with my two fingers. Please start over, because I’m trying to understand your situation. 

Here I was, trying to do my civic duty as a human being, and this man appeared in my office, uninvited. He had a brown coat and scraggly hair, and the man before me had dirt on his face. He coughed a couple of times before he could explain. It’s Mr. Archibold. I’m afraid no one will look after him if I’m gone. I can’t leave, knowing he’ll be vulnerable in the world. 

I blinked several times, registering the information this man was telling me. And Mr. Archibold is a human being that I’m supposed to take care of? 

The man chuckled and slapped his knee from my bewildered face. Mr. Archibold is a human. That’s hilarious. But no, he’s not. When he motioned his hand, I heard a tiny squeak in my desk. And when I opened the drawer, I screamed and pushed myself and my chair against the wall. 

It’s a rat?! 

It’s a mouse, the man corrected me. There’s a difference, because a mouse is smaller than a rat. 

And you suppose that I have to take care of it? 

There was hope brimming in the man’s pale, ocean blue eyes as he gripped his green hat tightly. Is it possible? I mean, it would be great to know that Mr. Archibold is in the right hands. 

The poor man, expecting me to take care of a mouse that might scare anyone. That, and the fact my pet cat would think I brought dinner for her. Then again, this man needed to move on, or he would be stuck in a world where he could be manipulated into something horrible. Letting out a sigh, I said, If it makes you any better, I will look after it as much as I could. 

Because of my statement, the man’s lips spread into a huge grin to the point I could see his decaying teeth.  Thank you, miss. Oh, you will have fun taking care of Mr. Archibold. I promise. 

Putting his hat on and giving me a nod, he walked away and vanished. I glanced down at the mouse that was scurrying around in my drawer. What did I sign up for, I have pondered. But if it would make the man happy, then I would do my best to take care of that mouse. For now, I needed to hide it somewhere safe. You better be a good mouse, Mr. Archibold, I told him while grabbing a small shoe box from the closet, picked it up, and placed him in there before closing the lid. At least there’s a small hole to breathe. 

As I made my way out of my office, my eyes bulged when I was face to face with Nikhil. Hey. 

Hey, he giggled. So um, who were you talking to? 

I felt my cheeks warm when I was looking flustered and embarrassed. I—-um... 

You know you can’t hide from me, Gwen. He kissed my cheek, making me blush more. Besides, I know you help people in need—-Hey, why do I hear squeaky sounds? 

You don’t want to know, I told him. 

Nikhil arched his eyebrow, but he shook his head before clearing his throat. Anyway, I wanted to tell you you have a meeting with someone setting up funeral arrangements. She’s waiting in the living room.

Another day, another death comes. 

I’m not bothered that people keep coming to me for help because I’m used to it by now. I was grateful that I no longer have competition, but it was exhausting at the same time. But what I learned since day one was that death does not take a vacation, which I must comply with. 

Releasing a sigh, I gave the box to Nikhil. Okay, I’ll see to it immediately. In the meantime, can you please take this box somewhere in my room? 

Um, sure, he said, sounding confused. What’s in there? 

I’ll tell you about it later. Let’s just say you need to make sure you keep it away from Shadow. 

Nodding his head in affirmation, Nikhil went upstairs while I walked over to the living room. And there she was, sitting by the sofa, was my client. A few strands of raven black hair were on her face since the bun didn’t look secure. The