Premedicated Murder: A Medium with a Heart, #1

By Erica Whelton

Check out the first book in the Medium with a Heart Series.

Following her husband's death, Joanna tries regaining her long-blocked psychic powers. Fake it until you make it becomes her motto.

 

Though she may not be the most honest medium, she tries to bring her clients peace and closure during their grief. With the help of her two amazing assistants and her charismatic personality, her fame grows allowing her to pay off the debt from her husband's death.

 

It's her fame that leads to her being contacted by a local pharmaceutical executive, Jeremy Landon. He begs for help him find a killer.

 

Why should she help him? She's a medium, not a homicide detective. What skills does she have?

 

The only skill that matters – she can see him.

 

After her initial surprise to have her powers back wears on, she digs into the investigation, Joanna finds herself caught up in this bizarre request endangering her life, but with the help of her assistants and a sexy detective, she may pull this off.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Sunseri Design Publishing
• Release date: Aug 27, 2021
• ISBN: 9781956069044

Book preview

Premedicated Murder

A Medium with a Heart

Book 1

Erica J Whelton

Copyright © 2020 Erica J Whelton All rights reserved.

The characters and events portrayed in this book are fictitious. Any similarity to real persons, living or dead, is coincidental and not intended by the author.

No part of this book may be reproduced, or stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without express written permission of the publisher.

Publisher: Sunseri Design Publishing

ISBN-13: 978-1-956069-04-4

Second Edition

Printed in the United States of America

To my Grandmother Levin and Aunt Detna Kacher,

who would both have loved this story.

I miss you both every day.

Books in this series:

Premedicated Murder (book 1)

Replicated Murder (book 2)

Organized Murder (book 3)

Inherited Murder (book 4)

Crafted Murder (book 5)

Destined Murder (book 6)

Other books by this Author:

Mandy’s Story: A Glenn Lake Novel (book 1)

Becca’s Story: A Glenn Lake Novel (book 2)

Caroline’s Story: A Glenn Lake Novel (book 3)

The Haunting of Anna-Rose (Paranormal Suspense)

Decoding Us (Women’s Fiction/Friendship)

Table of Contents

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-Two

Chapter Twenty-Three

Chapter Twenty-Four

Chapter Twenty-Five

Chapter Twenty-Six

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Chapter Thirty

Chapter Thirty-One

Chapter Thirty-Two

Chapter One

~Joanna~

If Tessa didn't return soon with the sign-in sheet, I was going to wear a hole in the floor from my anxious pacing. We scrambled to do our research before my turn on stage. When I felt I could wait no longer, she barged in with the sheet, trailed closely by my other assistant, Micah.

I have the list! she announced, thrusting it toward me.

I seized it from her, quickly skimming the names. I started typing them into the computer before passing the list back to her and Micah, so they could do the same.

I had an auditorium full of people who had paid to see me speak to the dead. They didn't know I was a fake, and I worked hard to ensure the secret never got out.

I’ve got some excellent stuff, Boss. Excellent. Micah declared. He read off a few things.

Those are a good start. Write it down.

More tapping and clicking of the keyboard and mouse as we all worked.

Oh, I got it! This is gold. I read them a story from a blog.

Oh yeah, that’s perfect for the finale, Micah said over his laptop.

If that doesn’t get them crying, I don’t know what will, Tessa agreed.

How much longer until I go on?

The magician has another 20 minutes, and then it’s you, Micah confirmed.

We consolidated our notes, worked out what I would say, and then I took a few minutes to practice. I’d been doing this so long I could perform with little prep time.

Two minutes, Micah cued.

I took a few deep breaths as I checked my image in the dressing room mirror before making the long walk down the cement gray, cinder-block hallway toward the stage.

Okay, Boss, ready? Micah smiled from the top of the stairs as the illusionist on stage wrapped up.

The crowd erupted in applause. I peeked around the heavy purple curtain to see Julio taking a bow to a standing crowd.

He was the perfect opening act, long enough that we could get our research complete, but not so long that the audience became bored. He was entertaining and got the crowd into it. I was glad to have him as part of the team.

He didn’t know what we did while he was on stage. He just did his job and did it well.

The curtain dropped, and the stage cleared behind it. Micah winked at me before walking out in front of the curtain to make my introduction. I stood in the wings, watching him. His long legs made it to center stage in a blink. He looked sharp in his dark blue sports coat paired with a crisp white dress shirt and khaki pants. Relaxed and confident, he turned with a smile to the crowd.

Wasn’t he wonderful! Give it up one more time for Julio the Great! The audience went crazy with applause. When they quieted, he continued. Now up next, the woman you all came to see. She has a special connection to the other side, giving us all hope that our loved ones are still looking out for us. Because of her, I know I have a few guardian angels. He paused and put his hand on his heart, closed his eyes while bowing his head.

Micah was good, too. Damn good.

He opened his eyes and pretended to wipe away a tear. The theater filled with a soft murmur as the onlookers reacted to him.

Let’s give a warm welcome to Joanna, your Medium with a Heart.

The audience came to their feet with cheers mixed with sobbing. They were ready to believe. This was going to be an easy show. I took a deep breath before walking in front of the curtain with my best pageant queen smile.

Oh, thank you, thank you. Please, please ... I held my hands up for quiet. As they took their seats, the cheering quieted, but the gentle weeping continued.

It occurred at almost every show. People felt hope that they would hear from a loved one or two. Only a handful would, sort of.

I put my hands over my heart. I’m humbled by your welcome. I hope everyone is doing well this evening. I have been backstage, clearing my mind and preparing to connect with the other side. I can already feel them waiting. Let’s see ... I paced slowly to one side of the stage, paused, and then moved back to the middle of the stage. "Um, so I’m hearing from a woman. She’s telling me a story about an olive-green dress with far too many bows. My statement was met with low laughter from the audience. A prom dress? No, wait ... a bridesmaid’s dress. It caused disagreement and compromise."

There was a gasp from the right side of the audience. A woman in her mid-fifties stood. She had a tissue already pressed to one eye.

My sister. I hated that dress, the woman stated.

A muffled laugh rolled through the crowd. I gestured for her to join me on stage.

She’s telling me you were known as the one to bring home every stray in the neighborhood.

She laughed, That’s true.

Remember when you brought that goat home? Dad was so angry with you because he was convinced you had stolen it, but it turns out there had been a fence broken at the Gaines’ farm in town. They had managed to get most of them rounded up. I spoke as if I was her sister, Eloise.

I thought I was going to be grounded for life for that. Thankfully, we got little Frannie goat home. Karen laughed at the memory.

I shared a few other memories with her. She laughed while adding her own tidbits. I wrapped it up by bringing it back to the beginning, the dress.

That bridesmaid's dress was so underappreciated, but I was so glad to have you stand with me that day as I married my best friend. I added the part about the dress.

It helped that Eloise’s husband had shared online that she had been happy to have her sister as her maid of honor. Unfortunately, she passed not long after from a rare form of cancer.

It was a beautiful day. She dabbed her eyes again. I’m so glad you aren’t in pain.

I smiled and squeezed her hand.

Thank you, Karen, and please know your sister is always watching over you.

We hugged, and she took her seat. I launched into the next person’s story, continuing until the big finale. The tear-jerker, most heartwarming story I found on the list.

I’m seeing a man. I stared ahead as if I was trying to see him more clearly. I cleared my throat and wiped at an imaginary tear. I see him holding roses to his chest. I can hear music, guitar music, and—

That was all it took. I heard the emotional realization of Linda, the widowed wife of the deceased guitarist. She shuffled toward the stage. I could see she was shaking and tears falling down her face.

I think it’s my husband, she said weakly when she reached me.

I held my hand toward her, and she took it. We stood for a moment, holding hands.

I see a rose garden. Huge red, pink, white, and yellow roses. Does that mean anything to you?

She nodded as she choked on her tears. Tessa materialized from the shadows with a box of tissues and, after handing them to the widow, faded away just as quietly.

Did I mention how fantastic my team was?

He ... he was dying. Terminal cancer. But he planted me that rose garden. He said, so I’d have roses from him even after he was gone. She fought back tears. He hadn’t been gone long, only a few months, so this wound was fresh.

The crowd loved this story, as I knew they would. The sounds of sobs, sniffles, and whispers of sympathy filled the air.

She shared some additional details about him and their life. I had already read some of it online, so I was able to add tidbits before she got the chance.

... And that’s when you took the ferry to the bed-and-breakfast.

That’s right. It was a lovely weekend. She smiled as if remembering.

Even though it rained all weekend, I added.

She laughed at the memory; the audience joining in. People loved these stories. I know I was being deceptive, and I hated that part, but I enjoyed the joy these happy stories gave my fans, and many got much-needed closure.

I kept hoping my powers would come back someday, so I wouldn’t have to fake this anymore. I would be heartbroken for my fans if they found out I was a fraud. My intention was to help them, not hurt them.

Though my initial motivation was my struggle with a mountain of debt. With that behind me, I was now devoted to helping my clients heal their wounds.

Well, Linda, just know he is watching over you and is with you in spirit and love.

Big ‘aw’ from the audience. Linda wept and smiled. She hugged me before leaving the stage.

I thanked everyone for coming and let them know we would have books, t-shirts, and other souvenirs for sale in the lobby. I also let them know we would be back in town soon, and for those who signed up for the mailing list, to watch their emails for future news and events.

When I got my standing ovation, I bowed, then exited the stage, waving until I was clear from the audience's view. Tessa high-fived me and then went to join Micah in the lobby, where he was set up to sell all the Joanna: The Medium with a Heart merchandise.

While my assistants did their thing out front, I went to my dressing room to unwind and change into my everyday plain self. It felt good to dress up and put on my alias for the hour-long show, but even better to relax after.

In my soft, oversized t-shirt and yoga pants with beat-up sneakers, I washed my make-up off and shook out the fancy updo, pulling my hair into a ponytail. I gave a sigh of relief once I was back to plain ole Jo.

Much better, I said to my reflection.

After I was changed, I started cleaning the dressing area. Normally I might wait for Micah or Tessa to do this part, but I wasn’t one to sit around while work needed to be done. If my assistants could do this, I sure could too. I packed up my Joanna the Medium clothes, cleaned our trash, and packed up our laptops. I then wiped down the sink area and counters.

When I was satisfied, I finally sat down to relax and wait for Tessa and Micah to join me. I scrolled through social media and my emails while I waited.

An hour later, my assistants joined me in the dressing room. They had a stack of receipts and empty boxes.

Great night, Boss, Micah said as he set down the boxes with what was left. Everyone was commenting on the rose story. They loved that one.

I peeked inside. Not much. A few shirts, some miscellaneous other items, and a few books. We had brought several dozen of each product.

We thought they might, I confirmed. Everything’s cleaned up, so we should be good to go.

We gathered our items and turned to leave. As we turned, I noticed a man in the doorway watching us. Was he a fan looking for an autograph? He was dressed too nicely to be the janitor.

Oh, I’m sorry. You can’t be back here.

I looked over my shoulder at Micah and Tessa for confirmation. They stared at me, confused.

Who are you talking to, Boss? Micah asked.

Him. I gestured toward the man standing by the door.

They looked at each other and then at me. Blank stares all around.

You can see me? the strange man asked.

"Um, yeah. What kind of question is that?"

"You can see me. He became animated and walked toward me. Wow, I came here for your help. When I realized you were faking it, I was disappointed. But you can really see me. So, you can help me."

Okay, this is freaking me out. Who are you?

The hairs on the back of my neck stood up, and an icy chill ran down my spine. I took a step back.

Boss? Micah sounded concerned.

I looked at him and then at the stranger. Who was this guy? Why could I see him, and Micah and Tessa couldn’t?

They can’t see me. I’m dead. His tone became more serious. You are a medium, or whatever it’s called.

My mouth dropped open. I couldn’t believe this. I’d been faking the medium thing trying to get my childhood powers back. I’d just never figured out how and couldn’t believe this was really happening now, or perhaps this was a trick?

Okay, so you’re telling me you’re dead ... I can see you, but you’re ... dead. I looked around the room for an exit. Unfortunately, he was blocking the only available escape route.

Yes, and I need your help.

You see someone? Like a real someone ... or I guess a dead someone? Micah paused, as if thinking about my crazy behavior. No. No, you’re messing with us. Good one, Boss.

No, really. He is standing there wearing blue slacks and a polo shirt and ... golf cleats? Are you dressed for a game of golf?

Yeah, why not? I loved golf when I was alive. He shrugged and looked down at his attire.

Um, that’s ... odd, but okay. How does that work? Do you just imagine what you want to wear? I knew I was getting sidetracked, but I was curious.

Yeah, something like that. Like I can wear a suit.

His golf outfit faded away, and suddenly he was in a navy-blue suit and tie.

The cold chill turned into a hot sweat as the reality of this moment hit me. My powers were returning. I hadn't communicated with anyone from the other side in nearly twenty years. It had never scared me before, but this encounter was a tiny bit.

Actually, this might be nice for a while. I’ll stay like this. He looked down at his clothing, smoothing nonexistent wrinkles from the jacket.

Okay... So, what do you need my help with? I fought a yawn as the exhaustion from the show and being on the road started to take over my body. I wanted to get to the point, so we could get to our hotel and, more importantly, the bed that waited for me.

Oh, yes. Accidental poisoning in the lab was the official cause of death, but the media and other people suggested I killed myself. I knew what I was doing in the lab. I didn’t mess up, and it wasn’t suicide. I had too much going for me; why would I do that? I was going to have two babies. I just made a big business deal, which meant lots of money. I had a new house, a new car. Beautiful wife, gorgeous girlfriend.

Whoa, what?

I was married, but I had a girlfriend too. My wife, Laney, didn’t know ... well, she did at the end, before I died. But I hate to use the word ‘affair.’ It’s such an ugly word. I was in love with both of them.

My late husband Ted's face flashed in my mind. Cheater. Liar.

And were they both pregnant, or was one of them having twins?

I’d been talking to the stranger for some time now, so I looked over at Micah and Tessa. They glanced at me and then at the empty space that I’d been talking to, so I continued.

Both. Neither were happy when they found out the other was pregnant. My girlfriend knew I was married, but she thought I would leave my wife. Not that I ever hinted at that. I loved Laney, but I loved my girlfriend, Cate, too. I was thrilled to have two babies coming. I was going to be a great father.

I studied him, trying not to pass judgment. To be honest, my first impression was quite the opposite. He seemed selfish and self-absorbed. Children, his wife, house, and money all seemed like status symbols to him.

Then again, my opinions could be colored by my thoughts about cheating husbands in general, given my history. I didn’t want to think about that at the moment. How was I seeing dead people was the real question, and what did this one want from me?

I looked over my shoulder again at my assistants. They both stood with their mouths agape, listening intently to my one-sided conversation. I couldn’t tell if they believed me or thought I was looney, but they didn’t interrupt.

Back to what you need help with. What exactly do you want from me? I’m not a detective or private investigator. I’m a fake medium, or, well, sort of fake, I guess. Waving my hands in his direction as I spoke.

"But you can see me; therefore, you can help to tell my story. We can work to find out who killed me. Maybe my brother, Greg. Or Hank the Hammer. Once we figure it out, you can be my voice. Then I can rest in peace like I’m supposed to."

I had to ignore for a minute that he just named the most dangerous, powerful man in our town and try to focus on what he wanted me to do. I couldn’t do this. Could I? What was in it for me? I couldn’t think of anything. Not. One. Thing.

Plus, why would I help a womanizing con artist?

What if I don’t agree to help you?

Well, I have nowhere to go and nothing to do but follow you around. I can be pretty annoying.

That sounded like a threat, and based on our limited interaction, caused me to visibly shudder. I imagined he could be quite annoying. I could try to block him like I had with the spirits when I was a child, but not knowing how I was seeing him now, I wasn’t sure I could block him.

What’s he saying? Tessa asked with a slight quiver in her voice.

He says he wants me to help investigate his death. Says he was murdered.

Oh, this is crazy awesome! Micah was grinning from ear to ear and swaying like an eager little boy. He seemed to enjoy this.

Micah was over six feet tall and thin as a rail, with a full hipster beard. To see him act childlike was amusing. If I wasn’t so annoyed and spooked by this stranger’s request, I would have laughed.

Look ... um, wait, what’s your name? I realized in the rush of information and drama, he hadn’t introduced himself, though he looked familiar. I just couldn’t place him.

Jeremy Landon.

Oh, I remember hearing about you. From Creekview, like us. But the news said accidental poisoning. Not too many of the people that were interviewed seemed upset you were dead ... you weren’t a nice person.

Yeah, well ... I didn’t deserve to die for being an asshole. He paused, running his hands through his hair. A lot of people are assholes, and seriously, it was murder. Like you said, many people didn’t like me and had good reason to kill me. I just need to prove it. Since you can see me, I need you to tell my side of the story.

I’d never investigated a murder. Never thought I would ever be asked to. What skills did I have? Maybe my research skills could help us, but that was really the only skill I could think of that might translate to sleuth.

Can you at least give me tonight to think about it? Don’t do the whole stalking ghost thing until I have time to think.

Fine. I’ll come see you in the morning. He turned to leave, but then stopped. And for the record, my wife and girlfriend were both upset that I died. They still cry for me.

He continued his departure from the room; I followed him to watch him depart down the cinder-block hallway until he was gone. Slowly, I turned back to my assistants.

So? they asked together. Their hands intertwined with each other as if one person begging me for answers.

He said he would give me until the morning to think about it. Can I really do this?

Yes! they said simultaneously.

I stared blankly at them, trying to determine my next move.

Tessa seemed over her fear and now matched Micah’s excitement over the situation. They both started talking rapidly between them.

This is crazy.

I knew you’d do it again, Boss.

Not that he knew me when I had powers before, but we found each other through our mutual love of the afterlife and spirits. There were conferences, clubs, and online groups set up to connect people with an interest in all things paranormal. Micah and I had an instant connection, and soon after, we met Tessa. We chatted nearly daily, and when I shared with them my story of losing my husband and the need for extra income, we came up with this medium idea.

We loathed deceiving people, but believed that giving them good stories and loving memories was a better lie. That's what we convinced ourselves of. The longer we did it, the less the lie bothered us.

We grabbed our gear and headed to the car. I think I was still in shock at seeing him and his ask of me, so I did what I always do. I pulled out my cell phone to research him. I enlisted Tessa to help me while Micah drove us back to our hotel.

Jeremy had been a pharmaceutical big wig. His company's most notable achievement was discovering a drug to treat Alzheimer's and other neurological diseases. They had several other products they manufactured as well, but Remarpax was their biggest seller