Memory Scanner

By Jessie Wright

American criminal justice system should be overhauled the end of criminal trials, juries, prosecutors, and defense attorneys. But how?

Did you know that our brain, just like a hard drive, has stored pictures and videos of our past since we were born? What if we can tap into specific dates and timeline to extract the events and

• Language: English
• Publisher: Book Vine Press
• Release date: Jul 2, 2020
• ISBN: 9781951886288

Book preview

Prologue

The stage was set for the invited guests to view the execution. Among them was Ex-Sheriff De Vito, who sat tapping his fingers on his knee, watching through the partitioning window, waiting for events to unfold. His late wife’s mother was sitting next to him, and several police officials were standing at the doorway.

The inmate’s mother arrived a few minutes later, along with a few of her family members and his attorney, Steven Jones. An official ushered them to the seats in the front row.

A prison guard brought in the handcuffed prisoner, Daniel Oaths, from the hallways and into the execution chamber and strapped him into the electric chair.

I’m innocent! I didn’t kill her! the prisoner cried. I only slept with her and nothing more! His eyes showed panic. You’ve got the wrong guy! You’ve got the wrong guy! he shouted repeatedly, his face contorted in anguish.

Yeah right. Raping a white lady and killing her—you deserve this, the guard hissed. What is your final request?

Nothing. Just get on with it, Daniel said with resignation, and he turned his head toward the large one-way window.

Knowing that everyone was there behind the glass, he cried out, Mr. De Vito, you should be here in this chair, not me! May God forgive all your sins as I know he’s forgiven mine!

Steven Jones turned around to see Mr. De Vito’s reaction, but the ex-sheriff sat straight-faced, ignoring the accusation.

Someday, Daniel shouted again, the world will know that you killed the wrong guy today, and the guilty one is free! I wish there was a mind-reading machine, like some kind of memory scanner. His face lit up. I have a final request! Someone! You gotta find a way to read people’s minds, he implored. Build a machine that could look into their brains to see if they are guilty or innocent! There must be no more mistakes. No more innocent blood should be shed! He was screaming at them even though he could not see anyone behind the glass, but he knew they were there. You want my final request…Well, that is it. He stared defiantly at the glass. You are making a big mistake now, Daniel continued, but you cannot undo it as I will be in heaven when my innocence is proved. So just flip the switch and let me go there!

No, you’re going straight to hell, the guard said coldly.

The prisoner turned his head and fixed his eyes on the guard who was poised to push the switch.

Meanwhile, in the auditorium, the mother of Daniel’s alleged victim became highly distraught and cried, You killed my daughter, and God is going to kill you now! Mr. De Vito put his head down and closed his eyes.

Silence ensued. Suddenly, all assembled were startled by a loud click as the switch was pushed on. Thousands of volts shot through the prisoner’s body, jerking him violently in the chair. The lights dimmed and blinked for a few seconds. The curtains slid close across the viewing window as the lights stopped blinking in the auditorium. There was a moment of stunned silence as everyone sat transfixed in horror. The execution was complete.

A couple of minutes later, behind the curtains, a guard walked across to the chair and felt the inmate’s pulse. He looked over to the other guard with sadness and said, He’s gone.

We must wait for the coroner to confirm that, his colleague replied with indifference.

As everyone started to leave, Steven Jones, the inmate’s attorney, left his seat and approached Mrs. Oaths, who was crying openly, to try to console her. He hugged her and gave her his assurance that he would bring the real killer to justice. They started walking back toward the door, where Ex-Sheriff De Vito was standing talking to one of the officials. De Vito recognized Steven and extended his hand, but Steven declined to shake it.

I am so sorry for your wife’s death, Steven said politely. How sure were you that Daniel Oaths was the guilty party who killed your wife?

Hey, mister, I was very sure. You’d better get your facts straight and back off. This case is closed, and justice has been served.

Registering the ex-sheriff’s hostility, Steven raised his voice to make a statement loud enough for everyone still in the room to hear. It is true, the case is closed, but not in my mind. For now, we will pretend it’s all over, but you will be hearing from me someday. I intend to get to the bottom of this.

Steven took hold of Mrs. Oaths’s arm, and together they walked dejectedly out into the cold night.

A Question of Justice

(1)

The late December wind chilled the mountain air. Two women sat atop the ski lift watching the scene below them. Some other ski enthusiasts were gathering up their gear and walking toward the ski lift—skis slung over their shoulders—discussing how much further up the slopes they should climb before heading back.

Anyone spotting the pair on the lift could be forgiven for mistaking them for sisters, but they were in fact mother and daughter. Their Nordic beauty was radiant, accentuated by their luxuriant waist-length golden hair and dark blue eyes. Ann, just seventeen years old, was full of life and bubbling over with excitement after all the fun they had in the snow that Sunday. She was scanning the other ski lift searching for guys who caught her fancy. Her mother smiled in amusement.

You had better behave yourself and just try to enjoy your time skiing with me for what’s left of the day. Ann looked at her mother and smiled.

That’s okay, Mom, I’m only really interested in Gerry at the moment, although he’s going off to Harvard next fall and may forget all about me!

Well, responded Julie, "you will just have to wait and see what happens. I’m sure there are plenty of other fish in the sea if things don’t work out between you two.

By the way, you will soon have to start thinking about which university you would like to go to and what courses you might be interested in.

Oh, I haven’t really given it much thought yet, but I might follow in Dad’s footsteps and go into law. He has inspired me with his dreams of changing the justice system and putting an end to all the corruption that goes on behind closed doors. He told me that lots of rich criminals can just pay off their lawyers to lie for them and not let on that they’re guilty. Isn’t that terrible? Dad says that it’s perfectly legal because of some loophole…I can’t remember exactly what it’s called.

Attorney-client privilege, Julie supplied, proud at her daughter’s zeal to do good—yes, just like her father, Julie mused. She felt sad for a moment that his dedication to the cause had meant his working longer and longer days at Hudson & Hudson, which eventually led to the breakdown of their marriage. They had separated a year ago—Steven remained in their penthouse apartment, close to his office in New York, and Julie and Ann moved permanently to their family home in Aspen.

Oh yes, that’s it! Ann exclaimed. But all that’s quite a long way off into my future. I have to finish school yet, and I want to have some fun as well before I help Dad save the world! She giggled as Julie emerged from her reverie.

You’re right, darling, but let’s not…Oh! Quick! The lift is stopping. We must jump off here.

They skied off together and stopped at the top of the slope to put on their ski masks, taking a moment to double-check their gear, before launching off down the hill toward the camp.

The piste, aptly named the Black Diamond, was treacherous, only to be attempted by experienced skiers, as it was very steep and strewn with many large stones and rocks. One wrong move could cost skiers their life. But Ann and Julie felt comfortable and confident. In fact, Ann was so blasé, she was still checking out the guys nearby, even after her earlier promise, and was thrilled to see that some of the cute ones were watching them, as they dug in their poles and surged forward to begin their descent down the mountain.

Before long, Ann was leading by a few hundred feet; and Julie, the watchful mother, held back to ensure that her daughter was okay. Suddenly, while still far ahead, Ann lost her balance and tumbled over in the snow. She was unhurt, except maybe for a bruised ego! She was pretty upset with herself for falling. Julie soon caught up with her and helped her up. Once reassured that no bones were broken, she waited for Ann to regain her composure.

At that moment, a man sporting a bright blue parka, who had been skiing close behind Julie, stopped to ask what had happened but accidentally knocked into her; and they both fell down in the snow. He lifted his ski mask to reveal dark brown eyes, slightly widened with concern, set in a strong, rugged face.

Are you okay? Are you hurt? It was my fault. I apologize. Julie didn’t say anything. He helped her up and started shaking off the snow from his ski clothes.

Julie smiled and said, Oh, I’m okay. It might have been partly my fault too, since I haven’t skied for a while now.

As he took in her beauty, he commented, No, I saw you. You are a pretty skilled and experienced skier. By the way, my name is John Ford. He reached out to shake her hand.

Nice to meet you. I’m Julie Jones. He held on to her hand for a moment longer, while smiling down into her eyes.

It’s so nice to meet you. He released her hand and readjusted his ski mask as he prepared to continue on his way. Are you set? he asked gently. We could start off down the hill together if you like.

She smiled back in acceptance. Okay. Come on, Ann, let’s go! called Julie, and they swept down the mountainside together.

(2)

The light was fading as they left the slopes and reached their car, which was parked outside the clubhouse. Ann asked Julie if it was okay for her to stay out partying with her friends for a while that night. At first, Julie didn’t want her to go but then changed her mind, as she didn’t want to be too hard on her.

Sure, honey. You can stay out and have fun with your friends on one condition, Julie told Ann, with concern.

What’s that, Mom? Ann asked playfully.

You won’t stay out beyond your curfew of eleven o’clock! Julie warned lightheartedly, but with a serious depth to her voice.

Don’t worry. I’ll be back on time.

Good, but before you go, help me load the gear into the car.

They packed their equipment into the trunk, and Julie slipped behind the wheel ready to drive off.

Do you want a lift anywhere?

No thanks, Mom, I talked to Holly and the others earlier, and they are meeting at the clubhouse here at the resort in twenty minutes.

That’s fine then, but you know you can call me if you need a lift home later?

I know, Mom, but Holly’s mom will bring me back. But thanks anyway.

Okay, sweetheart, I’ll see you later then. Have fun.

Julie was glad that, although Ann was somewhat impetuous, she was mature for her age and would behave responsibly while out with her friends and would be back home on time. They said goodbye, and Julie drove off down the mountain road.

It was only a twenty-minute drive to their home, situated in a prestigious area on the slopes above Aspen. The houses in the vicinity, surrounded by large gardens with ornamental waterfalls and ponds, exuded quiet country-style elegance. Julie’s house was a gracious stone-and-timber, gabled lodge, with manicured lawns and rockeries front and back. At the front of the house, large French windows leading to a verandah lent spectacular views of snow-covered mountains by day and the twinkling lights of the town below by night. Julie nosed her Mercedes through the wrought iron gates, which stood open, and drove up the short drive at the side of the house to the garage. The doors swung open as she operated a remote from the car. She got out and carefully pulled out their ski equipment, gently placing it on the specially designed rack in the corner of the garage. She could hear her dog, a brown-and-white spaniel inside, barking with excitement at her return.

Be quiet, Rex! she called in a playful voice. I know you are excited to see me and have been on your own all day—but I’m here now.

She unlocked the connecting door that led from the garage directly into the house and turned on the lights, as she passed through the hall and into her exquisite living room. Julie and Steven had decorated it together; she had always admired her husband’s taste and choice of luxurious furnishings. There were gold brocade couches grouped around the stone fireplace and matching drapes; thick, patterned Persian rugs on the parquet floor were adding warmth to the room.

Rex saw Julie as she opened the living room door and bounded across from the opposite corner of the room, tail wagging, as he was so happy to see her. Julie scooped him up into her arms and gave him a kiss on the nose. She let him out into the garden and flopped down on a sofa to relax. Soon Rex went running back and jumped into her lap. She stroked him lovingly, thinking over the special time she had with Ann on the slopes and the unexpected encounter with the handsome John Ford.

The ornate clock, sitting on Steven’s leather-topped mahogany desk, chimed 7:00 p.m. Julie glanced over at it. As she looked at his desk, she was reminded of her earlier sadness when Ann was talking about her father, wanting to follow in his footsteps.

Rex, are you missing Steven too? Julie asked with a sigh, talking to him as if he were a person. I miss him a lot. She lost herself as she reminisced, lamenting the fact that they had been apart for quite a while now. He had been working such long hours, rarely home before nine o’clock every night, often away traveling. She realized that it was partly her fault too that they split up. She had started drinking more and more heavily and couldn’t stop, even after the rehabilitation program. She used to get so angry with Steven when he eventually got home. No wonder our marriage fell apart, she mused. But she had recovered somewhat and was hopefully a stable influence on Ann now. She even dreamed that maybe Steven would take her back, start afresh. But somehow she doubted it. She had given him too much grief, though they had been happy once. A tear rolled down her cheek. Rex gave a little whimper as if he understood her pain.

He doesn’t look his fifty-five years, she said out loud. And I certainly don’t look forty-four, do I, Rex? He licked away the tear and snuggled back into her lap.

As the memories came flooding back, her tears fell unchecked. Trying to get a grip on herself, she murmured, I must be strong. Things will surely get better soon. Maybe if I tried harder, we could get back together and be a family again.

She got up, gently putting Rex back down on the floor, and walked over to look at the beautiful paintings on either side of the fireplace that she and Steven had bought together in Paris. Then she moved across to the window and looked out at the twinkling lights of the town below. How beautiful they are, she thought to herself.

Slowly she made her way over to the drinks cabinet and poured herself a glass of vodka and took a sip. Before she knew it, she had had a couple more glasses, which took the edge off her pain. Glass in hand, Julie walked toward the Jacuzzi off the master bedroom, feeling a little dizzy, and turned on the taps. She took another sip while getting undressed. The subdued lights around the bathroom mirror reflected a soft sheen over her curvaceous body, and she paused for a moment to admire her perfect reflection.

Not bad for a woman of forty-four, eh? she said aloud.

When the tub was full, she turned off the taps and tested the water temperature with her toe as she attempted to climb in. Suddenly, she slipped, lost her balance, and fell back onto the floor. She felt annoyed at herself for being so clumsy and careless, and for being tipsy so early into the evening, despite her best intentions.

Rex came running to her side, to check that she was okay. She smiled at her faithful friend and managed to clamber into the Jacuzzi and sat there for a while in a slight daze. After a few minutes, she got out, toweled herself dry, and headed into her bedroom to get dressed.

Julie got up from her makeup table and made a call to reserve a table at the Aspen Lodge Resort. She then moved slowly toward her closet, where she reached for a red dress from the rack. She held it up in front of herself, but not liking the color, she rejected it and chose a new black dress and slipped it on to see if it suited her.

What do you think? Do you approve of this dress, Rex? she asked playfully. Rex looked at her and growled a little, as she was leaving the room. Well, I think I look really great tonight, Rex, even if you don’t seem to think so!

Julie collected her mink jacket and purse and left the house.

(3)

It was around 8:00 p.m. when Julie pulled up at the front entrance of the Aspen Lodge Resort. A valet walked over and opened the car door to help her out, and she smiled her thanks as she handed over the keys. The valet returned her smile and drove her Mercedes away.

Wow! What a gorgeous, elegant lady she is, he thought as he drove round to the parking area. He admired the plush interior with soft cream-colored leather seats and the smooth purr of the engine.

Meanwhile, Julie slowly made her way toward the stairs, which ascended up to the restaurant and bar area. She noticed that as she was walking, most eyes were following her.

She was escorted by a uniformed waiter to a secluded table tucked behind an arrangement of large potted plants. Beyond was a large window overlooking the terrace and ski lifts. The table was set with gleaming silver cutlery and crystal glasses. A white candle in a small elegant silver holder gave out an intimate light. It looked inviting. Julie began to relax and felt glad she had come. The waiter held out a chair for her. After she was seated, Julie asked for a glass of wine.

She knew all the waiters by name as she dined regularly at the restaurant but had not seen this waiter before and wondered if he was new. What is your name? I come to this restaurant quite often and have never seen you serving here before.

My name is Jose Gonzales, ma’am. I usually work in the bar, but we are short-staffed tonight, so I am filling in as a waiter for the evening, he explained before hurrying away to get her wine. Julie gazed out of the window while she waited. It was a beautiful, still night. The moon was glowing brightly, and the stars twinkled like diamonds on black velvet. Julie began to feel better as she took in the magnificence of the view. Jose came back and placed a glass of wine in front of her.

May I say how beautiful you look, ma’am? he complimented her politely.

Well thank you, Julie responded.

May I bring you a menu, or are you waiting for someone else?

Julie smiled and said that she was not waiting for anyone and thanked him. She picked up the glass and slowly sipped her wine as the waiter left to bring her a menu. She was quite hungry after her day on the slopes and, when the waiter returned, ordered her favorite steak with Béarnaise sauce and a rich chocolate mousse for dessert.

As she was savoring the dessert, Julie suddenly heard a familiar voice behind her.

May I sit with you, Ms. Jones?

Julie was curious to see who it was. At the same time, she didn’t want to be with anyone as she was enjoying her private time alone. However, she felt obliged to turn around and was surprised to see John Ford, the man who had knocked into her at the ski slope a few hours earlier.

Well hi, what a surprise to see you here! Actually, I would rather be alone right now, Julie responded.

Just for a bit? he coaxed.

Okay then, just for a bit, Julie responded, in an effort to be polite.

John was standing next to her with a glass of whisky in his hand. He put it down on her table and pulled out a chair, dragging it closer to Julie.

As Jose was passing Julie’s table, he noticed John sitting there next to her. Would you like a menu for the gentleman?

No thanks, just get me a vodka and the same for the lady, John requested.

No, not for me, thanks, Julie responded with a smile. I’m fine.

John was glad that Jose had gone as he wanted to talk in private with Julie and find out more about her.

How long have you been skiing, Julie? And where did you learn to ski so well? John inquired, as he looked admiringly at her, thinking how beautiful she was.

Originally, I’m from Sweden, where I learned to ski from an early age, and have competed in several international championships, she volunteered.

Who was the girl with you this morning? A friend of yours? John asked curiously, in a playful tone.

That was my daughter, Ann, said Julie coldly, resenting his intrusive questioning.

Your daughter? No way! You don’t seem old enough to have a daughter that age! She is so beautiful, just like you!

Thanks for the compliment. How about you? Do you have children? Julie asked in return.

Oh no, I’m single. I have been waiting for ‘The Woman of My Dreams’—someone just like you! John responded, as he looked at Julie more intensely.

At that moment, Ann entered the restaurant and walked up to Julie’s table.

Hey, Mom! she said, ignoring John. Holly spotted you when she came in here to use the restroom just now. I didn’t know you were coming here tonight! Ann bent down to kiss her mom on the cheek and, without waiting for an answer, said, "We had a great time tonight. It was so much fun. We have been playing pool, and I won the first game. There was a live group playing. They were great, though I doubt you’d have liked them, Mom!

The others are going on to a party now, and it will finish a bit later than eleven tonight. Is that okay? Ann asked Julie excitedly.

Sure, honey, have a lovely time. But I want you home by midnight.

Okay, Mom, Ann reassured her as she was walking toward the door.

John had been watching the interaction between the mother and the daughter, and now his eyes followed Ann as she left the restaurant.

Wow! You are both so stunning! John exclaimed in amazement. Julie ignored the comment and sat there quietly, sipping her drink. The intimate candlelight from the table and the melodic music playing in the background softened her mood, and suddenly, the evening appeared magical and romantic to Julie. Sensing the change in her mood, John asked, Would you like to dance with me? as he stood up to invite her to the dance floor. Seeing Julie’s hesitation, he went behind her and helped her up from her chair.

He took her hand, and they walked toward the dance floor, joining other couples already dancing.

John drew Julie closer and closer into his arms as they began dancing and brought his head closer to hers. He became so caught up in the moment that before he knew it, he was leaning closer still and kissed her cheek. Encouraged by her acquiescence, he then began nibbling her ears, but this made Julie uncomfortable, and she quickly drew her head back. John didn’t take this as a negative reaction but instead bided his time for the right moment to kiss her again.

After a short while, the music ended, much to Julie’s relief. John released her hand at once, and Julie started walking back toward her table. John moved quickly toward her chair and pulled it out for Julie. She sat down, uncertain as to whether she wanted to continue in his company. John slid his own chair next to Julie’s. So close in fact that their thighs were almost touching. Julie scowled at him.

Would you like a glass of wine? John asked with a smile, thinking it best to forget about the vodkas.

No thanks. I’m fine. But you are way too forward, she responded, as she tried to move her chair away from his. John picked up his whisky and started sipping on it slowly, while looking at Julie. He was very persistent. Leaving his drink on the table, he moved his chair closer to Julie’s again.

Sorry, I can’t help admiring you—you’re so gorgeous. I do apologize for my behavior. John raised his glass to toast to her.

Here’s to the lovely Ms. Julie Jones, said John, taking another sip of his drink. Julie ignored his comment, picking up her own glass, and started to finish it.

Suddenly, she felt his hand on her leg, slowly stroking it seductively. Julie gasped in surprise. A flicker of pleasure crossed her face, as she felt desirable. John watched her closely and was encouraged to continue, but Julie’s brief moment of arousal turned to anger as she felt his advances were intrusive and inappropriate. After all, they had only just met. Julie abruptly rose to her feet, picked up his whisky, and threw it in his face. John was surprised; and before he could say a word, she slapped his face, bringing him to his senses.

He stood frozen to the spot for a second, not knowing what to do with himself at first, but then stalked off to the restroom for a few minutes to dry his face and regain his dignity. Once he felt calmer, he settled his bill and made his way out to the valet parking area to collect his car.

Still feeling angry and confused, Julie just wanted to get home as quickly as possible. She picked up her purse and jacket and prepared to leave. The incident went unnoticed by the other diners; but Jose, who was approaching the table with John’s vodka, saw what had happened and rushed up to Julie.

Are you okay? Would you like me to call the police, ma’am?

No, that’s not necessary, she replied quickly, not wanting to stay a moment longer at the restaurant. In her distress, she stumbled slightly while trying to leave the table, and Jose shot out an arm to steady her. He was concerned that she had too much to drink and was in no fit state to drive.

You are upset, ma’am. Perhaps I could order a taxi to take you home and arrange for our staff to deliver your car in the morning?

Thanks, Jose. That would be great. She opened her purse with a trembling hand and gave him her card. Here is my address and phone number. Perhaps you could give me a call tomorrow when you know what time the car will be delivered? Julie asked, relieved that she would not have to drive home, as she knew she had had a bit too much to drink.

Don’t worry, ma’am, I will take care of everything, Jose assured her. He slipped the card into his waistcoat pocket and walked with her to the bar to order her taxi, while Julie paid her tab. A couple of minutes later, he came back and informed her, The taxi will be here in fifteen minutes, ma’am.

Thank you so much, Jose, you have been so kind. Julie could not thank him enough and handed him a large tip.

Really, it was a pleasure to help you, ma’am, replied Jose, pleased. He really is a nasty piece of work, that man. I hope he will not bother you again.

Julie thanked him one more time and made her way down to the entrance lobby to wait. She sank into a chair in the waiting area near the door and looked at her watch. It was 9:45 p.m. She couldn’t believe what had just happened and started shaking uncontrollably. She was still angry and upset and just wanted to get back to the privacy of her home. She was beginning to wish that Jose had not, after all, arranged for the taxi as the minutes dragged by. After what seemed an interminable wait, but was in fact just fifteen minutes, the taxi arrived; and she gratefully gave the driver her address and got in. As the taxi headed down the mountain, she sank back into the seat with a sigh of relief.

Meanwhile, John had been waiting for his car outside the entrance and saw Julie getting into the cab. A moment after the taxi drove off, a valet drove up in John’s silver Range Rover, and he made a split-second decision to follow her. Without even tipping the valet, he jumped into his car and pulled away with a screech of tires. He soon spotted the taillights as the cab meandered down the winding mountain road, and he followed at a discreet distance.

A few minutes later, the taxi pulled up outside Julie’s house. She handed the driver a large bill, not bothering to wait for the change, and quickly let herself into the house. She was anxious to get inside and shut out the horrible memories of the evening. She took a deep breath—all was quiet, and everything seemed normal again. As she opened the front door, Rex rushed up to her joyfully, wagging his tail and licking her hand. Julie relaxed and patted him, trying to shake off the incident at the restaurant and to put it out of her mind.

It’s so good to see you, Rex, Julie called, as she walked into the kitchen to give him his supper. Already she was feeling better in the comfort of her own home. She decided to get ready for bed and then watch TV for a while.

John had reached the end of Julie’s road when the taxi dropped her off, and he waited there for a few minutes before quietly driving up closer. He parked a few yards away from the house at a darkened corner a short way up the street and turned off the ignition.

He sat in the car for a while, just looking at the house. He closed his eyes for a split second and immediately sank into a drunken stupor. He must have been dreaming of Julie and their intimate encounter at the restaurant as he awoke ten minutes later feeling very aroused, with visions of Julie drifting into his mind again. But then he recalled his feeling of shock and humiliation when she threw the whisky in his face and slapped him. He was gripped by a blazing anger. As he remembered every detail of what had happened, he became even more livid. She must pay for that, he raged. And I know how. Quickly, he put on his ski mask to cover his face. He slid his hands into his gloves, quietly opened the car door, and stepped out into the dark, peaceful night. He was very careful not to make a sound.

Scanning the property, he ascertained that the coast was clear and maneuvered his way for a closer look. He crept around the side of the house and silently jumped over the fence into the backyard and positioned himself near a sliding door, which was slightly open. Probably the dining room, he thought.

Suddenly, a dog started barking from within the house, alarmingly loud. A few moments later, a light went on in the next room. John peered through the drapes, into the living room, and was able to see inside clearly. Rex’s barking grew louder as he tried to warn Julie of danger close by.

She opened the sliding door to check outside. Not finding anything, as John was crouched behind a large shrub to the right of the door, she tried to go back in and was about to close the door when John saw his opportunity. He leapt from the shadows and grasped the handle, preventing Julie from closing the door.

Quickly, he slipped in and pulled out a knife from his pocket and jumped in front of Julie. She was caught off guard. He seized her and pushed her up against the wall. He pulled both her hands behind her back with one hand and placed a knife at her throat with the other.

If you scream, I will kill you! he hissed in her ear. Julie nodded in terrified submission. Despite the mask over his face, Julie recognized John in an instant.

By this time, Rex was barking frantically, jumping up in an attempt to defend her. John ignored him and dragged Julie further into the house. Keeping a tight grip on her, he backed her into the hall. On reaching the staircase, he quickly spun her round and pushed her up the stairs, pressing the knife into the back of her neck. As they reached the master bedroom door, Julie stopped trying to resist him, but he still violently pulled her into the bedroom.

Rex was frantic by now and started to howl as John slammed the door, shutting him out. Julie, also, was terrified as he marched her to the foot of her queen-size bed thinking of what would inevitably happen next. She had seen the excitement in John’s eyes and felt his anger as he roughly shoved her up the stairs.

Yet she was strangely calm and was determined not to show her panic. She stood there, facing the head of the bed while he was still standing behind her, holding her with a strong grip.

What do you want? she asked fearfully, but with confidence.

John didn’t respond at first. He wanted her to know that he was in command and didn’t want her asking a lot of questions.

Suddenly, he spun her round and slapped her hard on the cheek. Julie fell down, hitting her face hard against the bed frame, and her nose began to bleed. She got up and glared at him defiantly.

Do you want money? He ignored her second question and stood watching her, transfixed. She was wearing a black transparent nightgown, revealing every curve of her body.

John’s excitement grew, and his heart rate quickened, all senses now out of control.

All of a sudden, he pushed her backward onto the bed, and Julie screamed. John pounced on her and slapped his hand over her mouth.

One more sound and you are dead meat, you understand? he asked.

Keeping one hand on her mouth, he ripped open her nightgown with his knife. Hopelessly, Julie struggled and tried to fight him off, hitting out and scratching him; but he was too strong and crazed for her to fend him off. Julie prayed that Ann would come home at that moment and rescue her.

It was too late. John was tearing off his own clothes in a frenzy, while still managing to hold her down. He slapped her face again, to stun her into submission. Moments later, she felt a sharp pain as he entered her violently, and she gasped in fear and agony.

John was feeling powerful and in control; he was riding on the crest of a wave but was angered once more as Julie lay there submissively, apparently as cool as ice, although she was screaming inside. He slapped her harder a few more times, and Julie started to cry; her nose and now her mouth also were bleeding profusely.

I love having violent sex! he shouted. I don’t get that from my wife. Strangely, Julie felt surprised at the mention of his wife as he had told her he was single. But by this point, she was too numb to care.

Act as if you are enjoying it! he commanded.

To show him she has not yet given up, she spat onto his ski mask. For John, this was the ultimate mark of disrespect. He grasped her by the throat with both hands, trying to choke her. She began slipping in and out of consciousness. She was having an out-of-body-experience; and for a few seconds, it was as if she was floating above the bed, looking down at herself, lying beneath John. But then the vision faded, and reality returned.

Now, it was a matter of life or death for Julie; and she knew she had to play along with his demands, however repulsive. She started to moan, pretending that she was enjoying it, and John loosened his grip on her throat a little.

He raped her again, finally reaching a climax this time, and he fell forward onto her almost-lifeless body. He no longer needed to restrain her.

Suddenly, he heard a vehicle pulling up outside the house. John panicked and rapidly started pulling on his clothes: he had to get out of the house as quickly as possible.

Julie revived somewhat at the sound of the car—Ann must be home early from the party. She started screaming and shouting to Ann—begging her to come quickly.

Ann, having heard her mom screaming, unlocked the front door with shaking fingers and raced up the stairs. When she got to the top, she found Rex, now barking furiously, wanting to get in. He rushed up to her, whining. Julie, screaming to Ann to call the police, rushed toward the bedroom door; but John pushed her onto the floor and stabbed her in the groin in an attempt to stop her. A sharp pain pierced her body; she lay still, clutching the wound, moaning in agony, trying to stem the flow of blood while John ran to hide behind the bedroom door. Seconds later, it flew open as Ann and Rex rushed into the room. John leapt out from his hiding place and grabbed Ann from behind. Determined to silence her, he stabbed her twice in the back. She let out a shriek of pain and slid to the floor. Rex flew at him, trying to sink his teeth into John’s ankles, but was kicked forcefully aside—the small dog was no match for demented assailant.

Julie screamed as she saw John plunge the knife into Ann, and with her remaining strength, she tried to get up off the floor to get to Ann’s side. She cried out again in anguish as she saw Ann fall, writhing in agony. Julie watched in horror as a bright crimson patch appeared on the back of her daughter’s sweater, spreading rapidly by the minute.

Ann, Ann, my baby! she screamed. She shrieked at John, What have you done to her?

Screaming uncontrollably, she tried to get to the door. Ann was weeping, but her cries were diminishing as she became weaker and weaker. I must try to get to a phone and call the police. I so wish Steven were here, thought Julie in despair, as more screams welled up in her throat. Then she noticed that Ann’s cell phone had fallen out of her pocket during the struggle. Julie stretched her arm, trying to reach it. Before she could move, John ran back to stop Julie and lunged at her, stabbing her in the chest and stomach. She collapsed on the floor, while blood spurted from her wounds, ran down her body, and soaked the thick pile carpet. She lifted her head and took a breath to call out to Ann once more, but fell back and lay still. Her screams ceased as her life started ebbing away.

Ann slowly and painfully raised her head from the carpet to discover her mother’s lifeless body lying motionless on the floor. She let out a piercing cry. It was a devastating scene for her to take in: her mother’s murderer standing over her lifeless body, the dripping knife still in his hand. Terrified, and almost losing consciousness, she crawled toward the door and managed to heave herself down the stairs holding on to the handrail, with Rex at her side. As she reached the hall trying to get to the phone, John grabbed the girl once more.

Ann began to struggle with her remaining strength and tried to lash out and scratch him. She managed to yank off his mask, and in the ensuing scuffle, as John tried to prevent her from recognizing him, he stabbed her in the chest several times, and she lost consciousness before she hit the floor. After a few moments, she gave a small gasp and breathed her last, her hand outstretched, tightly clutching John’s mask. Mother and daughter were reunited in death and finally at peace.

Rex whimpered and crept back to Ann’s side and licked her face, as if trying to bring her back to life, and then lay down next to her with his head in the crook of her arm.

John sobered up quickly as the enormity of the situation hit him, and he started to panic.

He saw his mask in Ann’s hand and reached down to remove the evidence of his killing spree. Rex snarled and looked John straight in the eye before jumping up and attacking him again, barking wildly. He knew that John had murdered his beloved family.

I’ve got to get out of here quickly before that dog wakes up the entire neighborhood, he muttered to himself.

The living room clock was striking midnight, as John ran out to his car and got in. He turned the key in the ignition, but nothing. He wrenched it over a second time, beginning to panic. Frantically he tried a third time, and eventually the engine fired into life, and he drove off, gathering speed once he had gotten to the end of the road, and disappeared into the night.

Rex’s continual cries of distress did indeed wake up the surrounding neighbors, and one by one lights began to snap on in several homes along the street, as people were wondering what had happened. Even their dogs started barking as if in sympathy.

Julie and Ann’s faithful friend went from one lifeless body to the other and howled in bewilderment and grief, mourning their loss and trying to raise help that belatedly came an hour later, as a policeman pushed open the front door and found them lying there.

(4)

Steven Jones, leading attorney at Hudson & Hudson, one of the most famous law firms in New York City, walked into a cheerfully decorated café near his Manhattan office. He chose a quiet table in the corner and sat down dejectedly, throwing down his briefcase on the floor beside his chair. A passing waiter stopped to take his order, noticing that his customer looked upset.

What can I get you, sir?

A coffee with milk, please—but make it strong. Thank you. Alone after the waiter had hurried away to pass on his order, Steven sat, lost in thought. He had just left the federal prison following the execution of his client, Daniel Oaths. As his lawyer, Steven had failed to reverse the execution order, despite the fact that Daniel was innocent but had been framed for a murder he did not commit. Steven had good reasons to strongly suspect who the real murderer was.

As Steven waited for his coffee, he thought back over the events leading up to the execution.

The waiter arrived with his coffee, but it remained untouched as Steven remembered back to the day of his first meeting with Daniel Oaths and his mother—doubtful even then that he would be able to save Daniel, because it was such a high-profile case.

Steven had driven through the gates of the federal prison at exactly 9:00 a.m. Constantly working on a number of criminal cases at a time required him to make frequent visits to the prison. Today he was meeting with Daniel Oaths and his mother, to discuss his case and try to clear his name.

Mrs. Oaths was sitting waiting for him in the visitors’ lounge, her dark face etched with worry lines.