Messenger of Death

By Judith C. Issette

Be careful whom you trust and give your heart to, for evil is lurking in the most innocent of places. This warning statement is highly demonstrated in this fictional thriller, Messenger of Death. A must read for every woman, this gripping mystery creates a greater awareness about the potential dangers of Internet dating and its sexual predators.

Readers will actually see into the cunning thoughts of a sexual predator on the move and watch helplessly as he chooses his victims, one after another. It is not a matter of who this serial killer is, but why he kills and will he ever be stopped. These are questions, which will set the readers on edge for a hasty end to this insanity.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Sep 16, 2009
• ISBN: 9781469101460

Judith C. Issette

Judith C. Issette is a retired registered nurse living in Chester, Virginia. Many of her writings reflect on some crucial and sorrowful issues in our society, and now, she addresses the ageless crimes of sexual predators in her new novel, Messenger of Death. Previous Publications: Silent Tears, Silent Warriors and The Chosen One.

Book preview

PROLOGUE

Marcy felt as if she was suffocating with the tape over her mouth. Vaguely, she felt someone tying her hands and feet to the posters of the bed. Her body wanted to move in protest, but all she could do was lie there in complete surrender. Fighting the sedating effects of the drug, she slowly forced her eyes open. All she could see through the haze and dizziness of her mind was an old faded blue ceiling surrounded by white crown molding. Shafts of moonlight seemed to be the only light in the room. Eerie misshapen shadows danced about the bed intensifying her terror of the unknown. She could not see into the outer areas. It was pitch dark beyond the bed. The room smelled of decay and was dead quiet except for his heavy gasps of breath, as he grunted with determination.

Between the tape and her fear, her breaths felt frozen in time and screaming was useless. Even though she was screaming with all her heart, the only sound she heard was a soft moan coming from somewhere else in the room. Suddenly, she realized it was only her muted voice. Sensing a slight movement next to the bed, she turned her head just in time to see a glint of silver above her. The steel seemed to shine and come to life in the moonlight emerging from the window by the bed. Sucking in her breath, she watched the glowing blade moving about the bed as if hanging in mid air. Then she saw a dark form step into the moonlight. Prayer was all that was left, for she knew his intent now. She could not remember the words exactly, but she closed her eyes in deadly expectation and began to silently pray.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of death, I will fear no evil, for I know my Lord God is with me.

All of a sudden, she felt his touch, and her eyes flew open with stark terror. The shimmering silver blade of the knife seemed to hang over her like the angel of death, as she felt him fondling her naked breasts. Her eyes widened in disgust, and her body tensed for the inevitable, as she felt him climbing on top of her. Closing her eyes tightly with fear and anticipation, she suddenly felt his humiliating flesh. She screamed to God, but again, only a moan could be heard at that instant—a pitiful sound like that of an animal in pain. It was a sound that cried of a death to come.

She heard his vile groan, as he violated her—a terrible guttural noise of pure evil. As Marcy continued to pray, she opened her tearful eyes to the glistening silver of the huge blade coming toward her face. She quickly shut her eyes and braced herself. She was about to die and only hoped God would show her mercy, and let it be quick. She felt the cold steel of the blade touch the side of her throat gently and then quickly slice into her neck, as he effortlessly pulled the knife from side to side.

Hearing the gurgling of her own blood filling her throat, she started choking. She tried to cough, but her throat would not move. It was as if it was paralyzed. The reality of death became evident, as she slowly strangled on the blood filling her throat and lungs. Fighting to open her eyes, the last thing she saw was a blurry dark face peering down at her. Even as the life and tears were slowing draining out of her, she could still see his sardonic smile and flashing black eyes in the moonlight. It was a wicked smile. There was a trickle of saliva drooling from that sick smile when she looked into his handsome face for the last time—a face full of evil, which slowly faded, as she entered into a merciful chasm of darkness and the puzzling wonderment of—why?

CHAPTER 1

Carlton awakened to the bright sunlight hitting his face with its warmth. He opened his eyes to the familiar bedroom, but did not get up right away. Instead, he lay in bed for the next few moments, lost in the memories of his night out on the town. Smiling with his thoughts, he felt refreshed, as he stretched his arms out to flex his muscles. Even as he continued to lie there feeling relaxed and relieved of the dark needs that had been building for weeks, he seemed to be lost in another world for the next few moments. If one could have seen his expression, they would have seen a mordant grin spread over his handsome face before he suddenly jumped from the bed to dress for the day.

*     *     *

Carlton walked into the sunroom and poured a cup of hot tea, as he cheerfully called out to his wife, Good morning, my love.

Clara was sitting on the veranda sipping her usual morning tea while she admired the lush yellow fields of grain surrounding their farm. Such a gorgeous day in Australia made her feel alive and grateful for the beauty of the land around her. When she looked up, she saw a vibrant blue sky full of billowing white clouds. They appeared close enough to almost reach out and touch their softness.

Good morning, Carlton. Did you sleep well, darling? It’s a glorious day. Come out here and sit with me.

Helping himself to some sweet rolls, he smiled and cheerfully called to her, Oh, yes, I slept like a rock. I feel very rested now. Be there in a minute, love.

Looking out to his lovely wife, Carlton liked what he saw even after twenty years of marriage. She still had that wonderful beauty, which had attracted him so when he first met her. It was an inner beauty that seemed to burst through and bathe her with sunlight and goodness. Even though she was still very beautiful, he loved her gentleness and affectionate nature the most.

God, how did I manage to get such a wonderful woman? How can a man like me be so lucky?

Trying to balance his teacup and sweet rolls, he carefully walked out to the veranda table and sat down across from his wife. His tall presence seemed to overshadow her small frame, and he was reminded of just how fragile and petite she really was. He smiled at her and took a sip of tea while admiring her looks. She was lovely with her long black hair pulled up on top of her head. He liked the way the tiny wisps of hair would escape and curl around her face, but he loved her eyes the most—sensual eyes so black that he sometimes felt he was falling into pools of darkness with her gaze of love. He was truly blessed to have such an exquisite woman for his wife and mother of his children.

Clara suddenly looked at him and asked, So tell me about your business trip, darling. Did you meet with the buyer?

Reaching for the butter, he smiled with amusement, as he answered, Oh, yes, we had a good meeting. We closed the deal on the wheat, and he gave me a good price for it. I was pleased. We should make a tidy profit on it when it’s ready to harvest.

Smiling ever so slightly, she reached her small hand out and laid it on top of his.

Good, darling. How was the rest of the trip? Do anything exciting? Oh, sweetie, did you remember to get those items on my list? I really needed that thread for my quilt.

He stiffened with her touch and slowly pulled his hand away to pick up his fork. He seemed to drift off somewhere for an instant until he heard his wife talking.

Looking startled, he asked, What did you say, darling? I’m sorry. I was thinking of something else. Tell me again.

Oh, I was just asking what else you did on your trip, and did you remember my thread. You seem out of it this morning, Carlton. Are you sure you’re okay?

Clara shifted slightly in her chair and then sipped on her tea while she watched her husband closely with concern.

He was listening to her words, but not really hearing, for he was too preoccupied with thoughts of the so-called business trip. Yes, it was most exciting. Even thinking about it brought a grin to his lips and a stirring of forbidden desire.

Abruptly returning to the moment, he answered, I’m okay. I’m a little worn out from the trip is all. Such a long trip in such a short time, you know. I’m afraid it was all business while I was there. Had my meeting and then some dinner before retiring early. Not too exciting, I’m afraid.

He laughed softly and playfully said, Some might even call it boring, darling. And yes, I managed to pick up the items you wanted before the meeting. I left them in the foyer on the bench. Hope I got what you wanted.

Sitting in silence for the next few minutes, they enjoyed their breakfast and the cool breeze coming off the huge grain meadows. The morning was slightly chilly now, but it would begin to heat up, as the day went on. It was Carlton’s favorite time of the year with its cool mornings and nights. He looked out over his vast fields and felt proud of what he had accomplished in his forty-five years of living. As he glanced around his surroundings with pride, he could not help but notice the beauty of the red and purple flowers spilling out of the terra cotta pots scattered about the veranda. Clara really loved to garden, and he enjoyed looking at the fruits of her labor. She certainly had a green thumb and had turned their little yard into a real English garden. Everywhere he looked, he saw the symbols of his wife’s love and devotion to nature.

*     *     *

When Carlton first bought this land as a young man, he had great dreams and expectations for it. It was always his dream to raise crops and livestock. His family had done so for generations in the States, and it was in his blood. As he looked around at his endeavors, he was especially proud of the home he designed and built. It was constructed with the architectural style of a Spanish hacienda. He had always loved that design and especially the enclosed courtyard. The veranda was added later to give Clara more room for her container garden. It flowed out from the walled courtyard and seemed to compliment the house. The design opened the courtyard up to the breeze, which came off the ocean even though they were miles from the beach. After all was said and done, it was a friendly house that spoke of love and the long ago laughter of children.

Although their sons were nearly grown and away at college, the house still rang with the memories of children laughing and playing. He missed those days when his little sons were underfoot and longed for the moments of an earlier time. His two sons were almost grown now and would soon be men. He was proud of them and how well they were doing in college. Family was everything to Carlton. It was a life that he guarded and held sacred. Nothing must ever interfere with or touch his family. Abruptly, he heard a voice calling his name.

He realized his wife was calling, Carlton, darling. Come back, dear. You are so lost in your thoughts this morning.

She deliberately got up and came around to his chair with amused concern.

Laughing, she put her arm around his shoulder, as she asked, Carlton, where on earth are you today? You seem so far away this morning.

He again flinched with her touch, but Clara did not seem to notice.

I don’t know, dear. I was looking around at everything and thinking how pretty it all looked. The fields are looking great and almost ready to harvest, and your flowers are simply spectacular. You have really out done yourself this season. I’m such a lucky man to be so blessed with a wonderful home and a wife such as you.

Giving him a little hug, Clara smiled sweetly and answered, Why, thank you, dear. The flowers do look good, don’t they? I can’t take all the credit though. Mother Nature had something to do with their thriving. We are blessed, aren’t we? I feel so lucky to have such a dear sweet man as you, my dear, and I will always love you.

She gave him a quick kiss on the lips and then lifted her arm away, as she stood up and began walking towards the kitchen doorway.

Glancing back, she announced, Well, I have to get busy with my day. Are you going to the office to work? Don’t overdo it now. Remember, we’re having guests for dinner tonight, and I don’t want you all worn out.

She laughed softly with her last words of well-intended orders. He loved her laugh. It always made him feel good when he heard it.

Okay, see you at lunch. I’ll be in my office all morning trying to get the accounts in order. It’s the end of the month, you know.

Suddenly, it dawned on him what she had said.

What guests tonight? Oh yeah, the Martins are coming. I had forgotten about that deal. See you later, dear.

Getting up from the small table, he quickly walked the short distance to the French doors that opened into his office. After swinging both doors open, he looked into the dark solitude of the office and felt relief. He was alone at last. The small crowded room had a huge wooden desk, which seemed crowded with papers, an assortment of books and of course, his most prized possession—his computer. This tiny dark room was his haven and escape from the outside world of reality. The computer was his only real link to the strange world he often created while in this special room—a room full of secrets and fantasies.

CHAPTER 2

Carlton sat down in the old worn leather chair and clicked on his computer. He saw the screen lighting up as if it were coming to life. Watching his desktop fill with his programs was always a source of amazement for him. He loved the technology of the machine, and the amazing feats it could perform. It opened up a part of his life that he never knew existed or wanted to acknowledge. It was a dark side that gave him more pleasure than he had ever known. It was a part of him that none had ever seen and never would except for a chosen few.

After bringing up his accounting program, he turned on his ACU messenger program. A small white screen popped up with the screen name, Wheatman. The handle seemed fitting since he was a farmer. The small white screen was silent now, but he could be very enduring. He would work on his accounts and wait. He was a very patient man.

*     *     *

The office was quiet except for the sound of the keyboard. He was lost in his numbers and columns of figures. Unexpectedly, the soft jingling of a bell broke the silence. It was the signal that someone was messaging him on the ACU program.

When Carlton clicked on the message, the words, Hi there, this is Kelly. Do you want to talk? came across the screen.

He could feel the excitement fill his body when he saw her words.

He quickly typed the words, Hi, I’m Carlton from Australia. Where are you from?

Within seconds, he saw the message come back, I’m from Sidney. Where are you located?

Sidney? He had just been there on his last trip. How lucky could he be?

They messaged back and forth exchanging information. Kelly was a thirty-year-old single woman living in Sidney with a roommate. She was divorced with no children. She was a full time English teacher at the local high school in her neighborhood. He liked the sound of her, as they talked. She sounded perfect when she told him more about herself. His fantasies were going into high gear each time he saw her words come on screen. It was obvious. She was another lonely woman seeking love over the Internet. There were so many. It was like picking flowers out of a garden. All different colors, shapes and sizes were at his beck and call. He could be the most charming man in the world when he set his mind to it, and on occasion, he did just that. However, when he did, it was more than that—much more. With that thought, he smiled slightly. It was the same smile that would curdle the blood of his chosen.

*     *     *

As Carlton thought about this new woman, juicy memories of another female permeated his mind. She had pleasured him so—the only way he could be truly gratified. Not the way he made love to his wife. She fulfilled his immediate needs for love, but most of the time, it never satisfied his primal needs for sex. Even though some deep entity cried out for more, he could not let that side of him surface when he was making love to her. The flaw within him was too dangerous. He loved his wife too much to ever subject her to his dark side, so he constantly battled this evil thing inside him in order to protect her. He loathed the demon that was inside him, but he could not seem to stop himself. So far, he had managed to appease it over the years with his victims of choice, but it was growing stronger with each encounter.

Carlton could almost feel the skin of the girl he had left in Sidney. How soft it was when he stroked her breasts and body. He loved her struggle, as he took her. It excited him, but not as much as seeing her eyes when she saw her final moment coming. That moment of finality brought the greatest orgasm he had ever had. It was the ultimate feeling of superiority. Just thinking about those exhilarating moments awakened the dark desires he kept so well hidden from unsuspecting others.

Recalling how he met the girl on the Internet brought back fresh memories of how they first talked back and forth in an effort to get to know each other. Pictures of each other were exchanged, and soon, the messaging turned into a full-blown relationship. After the first few weeks, he was calling her on the phone, and they were flirting and exploring each other’s wants and desires. What made it even more exciting was the secrecy of it all. Tasting the forbidden made it ever so sweet. It made him feel alive and powerful. He knew how simple it was to manipulate these women into anything he wanted them to do. All he had to do was turn on the charm and flattery, act sexy and make promises of love. They fell for the routine hook, line and sinker. It was so easy. He suddenly put his hand to his forehead and then closed his eyes in remembrance of the many encounters of past years. Thinking back, his eyes narrowed and grew even darker.

How many have there been over the years? Four? Five? No, this one was the sixth. God, she was sweet. They were all so very sweet.

That realization brought a smile to his lips, and he laughed softly, as he felt that sudden throbbing of desire. He had to quit this line of thinking, or he was never going to get any work done.

He leaned back in his chair and spoke out loud, Oh well, just for a few minutes.

After all, he had to have some relief after such tantalizing recollections. He had to have some pleasure and release from his thoughts and desires.

Carlton was lost in the ecstasy of pleasuring himself when the door opened unexpectedly, and his wife appeared. He quickly tried to compose himself behind the desk. Thank goodness, she could not see anything, but he was extremely angry at her abrupt interruption.

He furiously screamed at her, What do you want, Clara? Can’t you knock before busting through the door? You almost scared me to death.

After he said the cutting words, he saw by the hurt look on her face that he had wounded her.

Oh, darling, I’m so sorry. It’s just that you scared the pee out of me. I was lost in my thoughts and wasn’t expecting you—that’s all. Please forgive me for yelling at you.

Although startled with his unexpected yelling, her face soon lit up with apparent forgiveness, as she softly replied, It’s okay, Carlton. I only came to tell you that lunch was ready. Sorry, if I scared you. From now on, I promise I’ll knock to warn you.

With those last words, she looked down at the floor and weakly said, Take your time, dear. It’s only cold cuts and potato salad.

With that announcement, she disappeared as quickly as she had appeared. Even though she voiced forgiveness, he knew he had hurt her feelings. He was such an ass and hoped he could make it up to her later. Even still, he sat frustrated with his lack of release, but decided there was always another time for pleasure, so he got up and left for the dining room.

*     *     *

Carlton worked on his computer most of the day. He began to feel it in his neck and shoulders after a few hour of bending over his books. The tenseness was making his muscles ache to no end. He flexed his shoulders and turned his head side to side in an attempt to relieve some of the pain. In an effort to relax more, he leaned back in his chair and heard the old leather antique squeak and groan from long use. Tiring of his bookwork, he stared at the silent little white screen in the far corner of his computer for the longest while contemplating his brief encounter with Kelly this morning.

I think Kelly might be the one if she looks good. The others looked like a bunch of dogs. Man, there are a lot of fat ugly women out there in the world, and I think most all of them called me today.

He leaned further back in his chair and continued to stare absently at the glowing screen. It was almost as if he was hypnotized by its glow. He seemed lost in thought, as he stared for what seemed like hours—thoughts that eventually caused his eyes to grow darker and a sardonic smile to come to his lips.

It was a little half-smile that seemed to say—see? I won.

At last, he came back from that dark place in his mind and realized the time. It was late, and he needed to go get ready for their dinner guests tonight. Clara would be angry with him if he were late.

*     *     *

Clara heard the grandfather clock in the foyer striking its announcement that it was now seven o’clock. She listened to the chimes, as they counted off one by one. Everything had been ready for the last half-hour, and she wondered where the Martins were. She told them six-thirty, and they were so late. She would not be able to warm the prime roast forever. Since this was their first dinner together, she wanted everything to be perfect. At last, she heard the familiar door chimes.

Thank goodness, they’re finally here.

She quickly got up from the huge sofa and smoothed her dress while she walked to the door. On opening the front door, she saw a young attractive couple standing on the steps looking sheepish at being so late. They immediately began to apologize for their tardiness.

Hello, you two. Come on in and make yourself at home. Don’t worry about being late—Carlton isn’t even downstairs, yet. He’s almost ready I expect. As usual, he’s late. Don’t worry, you’ll get used to his tardiness, said Clara, as she softly laughed with her last comment.

It was a standing joke amongst their friends about Carlton’s tardiness to most of their affairs. He was worse than a woman was when it came to being on time for anything. She motioned the young couple to follow her into the great room to sit down and have a drink. The narrow paneled room looked quite inviting with its warm fire spitting sparks and making that wonderful crackling sound from the logs burning. The massive leather furniture that surrounded the stone fireplace looked comfortable and homey. Clara knew it was a little early in the season for a fire, but the nights were fast getting chilly, and the heat would be needed later. The room was dimly lit by several candles and the huge fireplace. The odor of logs and candles pleasantly filled the room.

Walking over to the huge bar, she asked, Kenzie, what would you like to drink? We have a good selection of most anything you could want.

The young woman had been looking about the room with curiosity, but looked over at Clara, smiled pleasantly and then answered, Oh, white wine will be great. I’m afraid I’m not much of a drinker, Clara. I like all those exotic drinks, but they don’t like me. Liquor doesn’t always set too well with my stomach, so I have to stick with a little wine.

While she was pouring Kenzie her glass of wine, she looked over at her attentive husband and asked, And what can I get you, Richard?

He laughed and enthusiastically answered, Well, I am a drinker, and I do it well. I’ll have a Scotch, Clara, and make it a stiff shot.

Clara laughed at his quaint remark and answered, Now, that sounds like a challenge to me, Richard. Sounds like you could drink us all under the table.

About the time everyone had drinks, Carlton finally saw fit to make his appearance. Kenzie saw him coming down the winding staircase in all black attire. This was the first time she had ever seen the mysterious farmer who was the subject of gossip from her neighbors. Although Richard had talked with Carlton on many occasions, she had never had the opportunity to meet him in person.

By luck, she was introduced to Clara in town, so they had planned this dinner date to get to know one another better. After all, they were neighbors now, and it only seemed right that they become friends. She had already experienced the isolation and loneliness of the farm, and any friends would be most welcome. The best part of the whole thing was that they were Americans. There was so few of them around the area. As Kenzie watched Carlton enter the room, she was impressed with his appearance and now knew why the ladies liked him so.

My, my, he is a handsome guy with his dark good looks—so tall and what a body at his age.

She wondered if his good physique was due to all the hard work in his fields. If so, it sure kept him in shape. Carlton was a powerful looking man and seemed to emulate his maleness. Kenzie could not help but have depraved thoughts about such a man. Even if wicked thoughts were all she would allow herself to fantasize, it sure did not hurt to look.

Hello there, sorry, I’m late. The time gets away from me when I’m working on my books, said Carlton, as he walked into the great room to greet his guests.

He noted the young couple’s warm hellos and then walked over to the bar to pour a large whiskey.

Usually, my wonderful wife lets me know when to stop, but I guess I scared her off when I accidentally bit her head off today at lunch.

Carlton softly laughed and then continued, You see—she walked in on me unexpectedly and nearly scared the pants off me. It frightened me so badly, I’m afraid I took it out on poor Clara and yelled at her.

Kenzie smiled, as she looked at Richard and said, You know, Richard is always walking up behind me and scaring me to death, too. When you’re surprised like that, you can’t be responsible for how you react. It’s kind of a reflex action. Don’t you think? One of these days, Richard’s going to scare me, and I’m going to do worse than yell. I’m probably going to knock fire from him.

While Kenzie was telling her story,