The Aftermath: The Nightmare of ‘The Room’ Returns

By Quintin Jones

Three months after escaping from the captivity in the room, Katherine Kelty, Melinda Jackson, and Lynette Hastings are once again challenged by the evil forces of another mans obsession. Unlike the obsession of Jack Kaynes misplaced love, this mans obsession is tinged with revenge, and so the nightmare of the room returns to haunt the three newsreaders.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris AU
• Release date: Apr 15, 2016
• ISBN: 9781514444580

Quintin Jones

coming soon

Book preview

Chapter One

Three months had passed since the kidnapping of the three newsreaders, all received physiological counseling of sorts, although it had been mostly cosmetic to satisfy the demands of their television networks. Bill Barnes protected his star newsreader, Katherine Kelty and had used all of his influence to mount a scathing media attack on the police investigation, especially that of the two detectives in charge of the police search. Senior Detective Clarke capitulated under the media pressure and took early retirement, whilst Detective Warren was given lesser duties.

Katherine, like Melinda and Lynette took extended leave to come to terms with the circumstances of their abduction and the killing of Jack. In fact the bond between them strengthened and the pact they had sworn to remained intact. Not one had ever made any mention of the fourth person who had controlled their lives for five days.

Now both Melinda and Lynette looked to Katherine for understanding, especially Lynette, who experienced reoccurring nightmares she had no control over weird dreams that left her exhausted and fearful of returning to sleep. Each other's company seemed all they needed and with this companionship they found the strength to face the future.

*****

Brisbane is a subtropical city and although summer had given way to autumn, the balminess remained, it would not be until the middle of winter and then the population would receive a sharp reminder of how fortunate they were to live it such a sublime climate. Sherwood, a riverside suburb with avenues lined by sturdy old trees and the location of the Kelty's family home, a high set Queenslander restored to its heritage listed condition, with no expense spared.

In the lounge room Katherine sat on an expensive leather sofa next to her husband Robert and tried to watch David Attenborough's documentary Planet Earth. For Katherine, the humid balminess brought back memories of days spent living in a sauna under the gaze of a madman and Attenborough's monotone voice only added to her confusion. Suddenly, she rose and went to the small cocktail bar at one end of the room, where she violently filled a tumbler with crushed ice, then just as violently splashed a double shot of Chivas Regal whisky into the glass.

Watched by her husband she started to pace around the lounge room, tumbler in hand. Robert returned to watching the documentary and Katherine aimlessly wandered over to the large bay windows and stared out into the night, to an empty street bathed in light from a seemingly never ending line of staggered light poles.

Katherine took a sip of the whisky and swallowed, then she coughed, took another sip and started her pacing again, Robert disengaged from the TV and said. Please Kate, sit down and talk to me.

This brought an instant response of glaring green eyes and a cold voice as Katherine replied. Talk, you want to talk, you mean you want to interrogate me.

For Gods' sake, you can't keep it bottled up inside forever.

And just what is that supposed to mean?

Her husband patted the leather sofa and smiled. Sit down Kate, you can trust me, we can talk about it, you can tell me, I'll understand.

Tell you what? Katherine asked loudly and still holding Robert in her cold gaze.

What really happened, what's caused you to change so much. You're a different person since spending that time as a hostage. Gee's, the kidnappers were killed in a car accident on the very first day, you were never in any real danger.

Katherine exploded. So that's what you think, you sick bastard.

Robert remained calm and apologised. Sorry Kate that may have come out wrong, sorry Darling.

Oh, it is darling now, is it? Katherine replied with no forgiveness, What is it you want to know? How frightened we were, how all alone we felt and just what did you feel? What were your feelings Robert, for it seems that I came a poor second to golf with your buddies."

Katherine!

Do not Katherine me.

Her husband picked up the remote and flicked off the television, then he walked over to the bar and made a scotch on the rocks, he took a long sip and stared at his wife, who ignored him and strode back to the bay window to silently gaze out into the night. Robert moved in behind Katherine and placed a hand on her shoulder, she instantly flinched and said. Do not touch me.

Immediately Robert took his hand away and went back to the bar to refresh his glass, then he turned to glance at Katherine, who had not moved from the window and unseen by him she watched a taxi, hail light glowing drive down the street and then Robert saw her shudder violently. Thinking his wife's shiver had something to do with his thoughtless words spoken only moments before and that he should make amends.

So Robert tried to explain. Kate, please understand how I felt, I was worried sick about you and playing golf was my way of staying sane, otherwise I would've gone crazy. And because of that you don't want to confide in me and now you spend all your time with Melinda and Lyn.

Without turning, Katherine shrugged her shoulders. And why not Robert, they suffered the same fears I did. Why would you think everything can be the same after what we had to endure? Melinda and Lyn give me comfort, because they understand.

I want to understand, I want to give you comfort, I want to help.

Katherine turned from the window and glared at him. "How Robert, by taking me to bed and making me your subservient little wife? Getting sex from me, be honest that is what you are really missing... Darling."

Maybe that's what you need.

More scorn came from Katherine. You would say that, my God I never realise just what a shallow man you really are.

Robert tried to dismiss her accusations. Kate, it's not like that.

Well, tell me Robert, just what is it like?

I don't know anymore, you've changed so much. Instead of feeling sorry for yourself, maybe you should go back to work, it could help you to forget.

What, forget... how can I forget, do you not understand Robert. No, I guess you don't.

As Katherine went from the window to the bar to refill her glass, Robert said, emphasising concern he did not feel. I'm trying to understand Kate, I really am.

His falseness did not escape Katherine. You are not trying to understand, you just want details, five days locked up together, what did we get up to and how did we amuse ourselves. I can see how your pathetic little mind works, three women alone, so what games did we play.

No... I don't think anything like that, Robert said firmly and then he grinned, Even if you did... I can understand... especially knowing the circumstances you were in.

The whisky tumbler was slammed on the bar top and with green eyes glaring, Katherine raised her voice. You sick bastard! You think that, well I do not care what you think anymore. Now I am going to bed alone and from now on Robert you can sleep in the guest room.

If that's what you want.

That is what I want.

Katherine stormed from the room and Robert watched her leave, then he slowly walked to the bar and poured another whisky and after taking a sip, he smiled and said in a harsh whisper. She's hiding something from me.

*****

Ten am the next morning, Katherine sat alone in her home office, keeping busy by going over some research of the homeless people in Brisbane, a project she had started sometime before her kidnapping, a project which she now thought would probably never see the light of day. Nevertheless it gave her something to fill the day in with, her husband had left for his office at seven and she would not see him before eight that night, which Katherine was thankful for.

Around eleven, Katherine took a break from her reading and made a cup of coffee. Just as she returned to her office, the telephone rang, the coffee was placed on the desk and she sat down, picked up the receiver and said in her television voice. The Kelty residence, Katherine Kelty speaking.

A male baritone voice answered. Good morning Katherine, Bill here, how are you, keeping well I hope?

Immediately Katherine smiled, Bill Barnes, the owner of the Eight Television Network and her boss was always a welcome caller. Instantly Katherine's voice lost all the pretence as she replied. I'm fine Bill and you?

Nothing to complain about Katherine, everything at the station's going like a well oiled machine, except for one thing, your absence has been noted. The ratings for the late night news has fallen by ten points, do you have any idea of when you will be ready to return?

Others would have been buoyed by the information, for Katherine it only brought tension which showed in her voice. Please Bill, no pressure.

Katherine, you know me, there's no hurry, Bill Barnes replied fatherly, Take as much time as you need, however there's something I would like to discuss with you.

Still feeling tense, Katherine asked. And what is that Bill?

Not on the phone Katherine, could you possibly make time to see me this afternoon?

If you want, I do not have anything else of importance on, what time would be convenient? Katherine asked as she played nervously with the coiled cord of the receiver.

Whatever time's convenient for you Katherine and if you like I'll send a car for you?

Aaaaah, say around three and I will accept your offer of the chauffer.

Bill Barnes voice noticeably lightened. Lovely Katherine, thank you. My car will pick you up at two thirty and thank you again, bye for now.

Until then Bill, bye.

Katherine glanced at her watch, it showed a quarter past the hour. She placed the receiver back in its cradle and wondered what could be so urgent Bill Barnes needed to discuss and why he did not want to give her the information over the telephone. These thoughts kept running through her mind for the next hour or so and Katherine found no answers to her own questions.

*****

At precisely five minutes to three, Katherine dressed in a colourful V- neck floral dress, which seemed to have shed years from her age and gave her a late twenties care free look, exited the elevator to the reception area of the nation's major television network. The receptionist, Ms. Little, prim and proper in dress and manner, looked up as Katherine approached and recognised her immediately. Good afternoon Mrs. Kelty, She said with an open smile.

Katherine returned her smile. Hello Sarah, how are you today?

Good, thank you, Mr. Barnes is expecting you, you can go straight in Mrs. Kelty.

Thank you.

Ms. Little pressed a button on the intercom as Katherine walked across the highly polished wooden floor to the entrance to the boardroom, her high heels clicked, echoing through the large open space and Ms. Little informed Bill Barnes of Katherine's arrival in a formal voice. Mr. Barnes, Mrs. Kelty has arrived.

She received a somewhat crackled reply. Good, thank you Ms. Little.

Just as Katherine reached the large double doors to the boardroom, they opened automatically, not breaking her step Katherine walked inside and the doors immediately closed behind her. Bill Barnes, sat at the far end of an overly long and highly polished wooden boardroom table, although late middle aged, he still fought the ravages of time and he sported a dark moustache and the grey of his hair had been washed away by blonde dye.

Katherine slowly walked along the side centre piece of the room, which could seat fourteen executive members at a meeting. Bill Barnes rose and went to greet Katherine, he grinned and took her hands in his and Katherine leaned forward to accept a kiss on one cheek and then on the other.

Bill pulled back and held Katherine at arms length, his grin broadened as he said. Katherine, you look as lovely as ever, thank you for coming on such short notice, I really appreciate it, thank you.

It is the least I could do Bill, Katherine replied warmly.

Over the years, Katherine had become accustomed to her boss's fawning over her, there had never been a sexual innuendo or any suggestion that he felt anything more than a heightened fatherly love for his award winning news presenter. This was not to say that Katherine had always received everything she asked for, for there had been times when they had clashed and Bill Barnes had weighed up the pros and cons of a request by Katherine, only to give a definitive no. And Katherine, after arguing her case to the fullest, to her credit would gracefully accept his decision.

On this day something felt different to Katherine, she sensed Bill Barnes had a request that she may find offensive and one that she would not be able to entertain. Bill held Katherine by the hand and led her to a over sized plush red leather lounge suit placed against a far wall of the boardroom, above it hung a long line of framed photographs of the network's celebrities, all smiling and holding one type of award or another, from Logies to the latest addition and in pride of place, Katherine's night of nights, the photograph of her kissing a trophy, awarded by a massive viewer voting response as the Best Newsreader in the Nation.

At the lounge, Bill released Katherine's hand and asked. Katherine sit down and make yourself comfortable, now what would you like to drink?

Well, seeing I am not driving, I will have a Scotch on the rocks, thanks Bill.

Good, I'll have one too and then we'll talk.

Bill made his way to an enclave almost hidden from view and at a well stocked bar he poured his favourite Scotch over three ice cubes in two glass tumblers. A Single Malt Scotch valued at five hundred dollars a bottle for and only produced for business associates of his standing or special friends. The tumblers were carried over to and delicately placed on two coasters on the thick glass amber table in front of Katherine. Bill sat down beside Katherine with the obligatory space to show he did not want to crowd her.

Katherine waited and Bill swiveled on the lounge to face her, Katherine gave a make believe cough. Instantly Bill read her signal, picked up one of the tumblers and offered it to her, with apologises. Sorry Katherine, I'm being less than the perfect host.

The offered glass was taken and Katherine took a sip, a smile slowly caressed her face as she savoured the mellow taste of a whisky which did not fire up in the mouth and yet gave a warm lingering feeling when swallowed. She returned the tumbler to the coaster and said knowingly. That is a very nice drink, it must be expensive.

Not really, just a taste I enjoy and you can't put a price on something that gives you pleasure... or someone for that matter, Bill replied as he placed his glass on the coaster next to Katherine's.

Gee's Bill, I don't like gamesmanship. Do you have a cigarette and then we can get to the reason why I am here.

Bill frowned. Sure Katherine, but I can't ever recall you being a smoker.

For a fleeting moment Katherine's face darkened, she reached for the tumbler of whisky, picked it up, took another sip, placed it back and gave a shudder. Katherine swished her long blonde hair over her shoulders and settled back on the lounge suite, vivid green eyes contested those of her boss. Sorry, unfortunately it is a habit I acquired after my time as a hostage in a small claustrophobic room.

There came a forgiving nod of understanding from Bill Barnes, he slowly reached inside his suit coat and produced a gold cigarette case, it popped open and he offered the contents to Katherine, who took a cigarette and waited. Bill placed the case on the table and from another pocket took out a matching gold lighter, he leaned towards Katherine and flicked it on, the cigarette lit instantly and she inhaled deeply, then leaned back in the lounge and blew a stream of blue smoke skyward and said. Thanks Bill.

Katherine, what I'm about to ask you will be strictly confidential and I don't want you to feel pressured or in any way obligated. I realise that you're still coming to terms and trying to recover from a dreadful experience, but now is the right time for us to capitalise on it, The media mogul said, his voice gave away his excitement at the prospect of another current affairs scoop for his television network.

Before taking another drag on the cigarette, Katherine took a sip of the Scotch Whisky, Bill Barnes watched her anxiously and true to his word remained silent, he would not place undue pressure on the star of his network, for he knew that she knew what he was asking and he gave her time to think about it. Katherine leaned forward to the table and ashed the cigarette into a crystal bowl, filled with the burnt remains of her boss's habit.

She turned to Bill and made eye contact. I know what you are going to ask Bill. I always knew I would have to face this day and I am surprised you have waited this long.

Katherine, the other networks have tried to get Melinda Jackson and Lynette Hastings, but they declined. Somehow, I know you were behind their reluctance and that's why I waited, it's been three months now, however this would still be the scoop of the year and besides the viewing public has the right to know.

Katherine took another drag on the cigarette and as the smoke escaped her lips, she scoffed. That is bullshit and you know it Bill... it is all about ratings for the network.

Undeterred, Bill tried another tact. Katherine, please hear me out, this's an opportunity to clear the air, to tell your side of the story. The inside story of three women who had the guts not to give up, three women who found a way out of a prison cell, three women who are regarded as heroes.

The cigarette was butted out with some violence, Katherine rose from the lounge and slowly wandered over to the large bank of windows, she glanced down to Turbot Street and the never ending scuttle of traffic, then she raised her head and saw the Roma Street railway station, adjoining it the magic of the inner city parklands, further on the cluster of suburbia and in the far distance the blue haze of Mt. Coot-tha and its TV towers flashing with warning lights, flickers only visible in the day time if you knew what to look for and stared very hard.

Bill Barnes took in Katherine's body language and waited, minutes passed and Katherine continued to stare out the window from the lofty height. Bill got to his feet and joined her, he knew what was holding her attention and he said softly. Katherine, I know you miss it... please accept this offer from me... this's a chance to enhance your career... see all those people out living in their little boxes... they love you, so let them love you even more.

Katherine turned, shook her head and half smiled at his efforts, the smile left her face as she replied. Please Bill, I am too old to fall for that crappy hype and what makes you think I have a need to tell the world about five days of hell, five days when time stopped, five days when I doubted everything I held true. Bill, must I relive it again?

No... no... Katherine it wouldn't be like that.

Emotion swept over Katherine and she choked back a tear. Then tell me Bill, just how would it be and what would you want me to say?

For the first time in their relationship, a man of great wealth and power felt at a loss, but he felt drawn to Katherine and gently placed a hand on her shoulder, her hand instantly closed over his. Bill Barnes, media mogul and a man who always seemed to get his way, now showed a caring nature, so often hidden and Katherine took comfort as she asked again. Just how would it be?

Gentle Katherine, very gentle, I envisage a soft forty minute interview on the networks Monday night 'Eight at Eight' and I think the perfect person to host it would be Sonia Lee.

Katherine relaxed slightly, she caressed the hand on her shoulder, just like a daughter would do to a caring father. I would need to see all the questions a day before the program is taped, there may be some that I will feel uncomfortable with and would want to veto, because I will not entertain a question that poses a question on a question.

Of course Katherine, there will be no surprises and definitely no tricky questions.

Suddenly Katherine felt in charge, her hand slipped away from Bills, she turned from the window and walked back to the plush lounge, sat down and took a sip of the expensive Scotch, then she casually lit up another cigarette. Bill soon joined Katherine and she asked as he sat down. Is this to be all about me or are Melinda Jackson and Lynette Hastings to be included?

No, it must be the whole package, the three of you together, that's the only way it makes any sense. Their own networks haven't been able to tempt them, but you can Katherine.

A sense of power flowed through Katherine as Bill Barnes waited for her answer, she slowly smoked the cigarette and enjoyed the dominance she held over the man, who although a father figure to her held other mortals in contempt. Katherine took time to play with him as he had done with her many times in the past and she asked with a sly smile. Oh Bill, would I be imposing to ask for another drink of your lovely Scotch, it helps me think.

A player of games understood that he was being played and it brought a grin to his face, the child he never had, but had always wanted sat before him and gave him enjoyment that he rarely felt. Of course Katherine, sorry I forget the needs of others sometimes.

Mmmmm, I have at times noticed that Bill.

The verbal slap in the face was ignored and Bill dutifully went to the bar and refreshed both glasses. Then he returned, passed one tumbler to Katherine and then took an uncharacteristic gulp of his own drink and sat down. Bill turned to Katherine and waited, she took a sip of Scotch from the tumbler and then gently placed it on the coaster, smiled sweetly and teased him. As I understand this Bill, you need me to get Melinda Jackson and Lynette Hastings onside, to get their signatures on a contract for you?

Yes, because they trust you. I know and understand why you all keep very close company these days after what you went through it must be comforting to have friends who know what it was like.

Katherine smiled, knowing she held the upper hand. Bill, you want this pretty bad, I can smell it, this would give you a real triumph over the other networks.

I want this more than anything Katherine and only you can give it to me.

Okay Bill, let's say for the moment I agree. Now what would you be willing to pay for the story of three fearful women all alone waiting to be rescued, a rescue that never happened, Katherine asked.

Six figures, Bill Barnes said without hesitation.

Each?

Yes.

After a moments thought, Katherine said. Okay, I am going to put the bar pretty high to start with, say a quarter of a million dollars each.

The media mogul grinned, his star had faltered, he had control again and he was not going to loose it. Katherine, you surprise me.

Yes, I thought that sort of price might make you wake up, it is a bit rich, hey Bill.

Suddenly Bill Barnes erupted in laughter, then he took hold of Katherine's hand and said. My Darling you sell yourself short, I'll pay each of you half a million dollars. Katherine that's how much this means to me, is it a deal?

Half a million dollars each. My God Bill you want this really bad, Katherine said, surprised by the amount of money being offered, then more reserved added, Bill, I can not give you a definite yes right now, I will have to talk with Melinda and Lyn and I will be guided by how they want to proceed. Please remember Bill I am promising you nothing at the moment, because both of them are still very fragile.

I'll leave it in your hands Katherine, bring this together and I'll be forever grateful.

Katherine still had reservations. Bill, you have been a wonderful mentor and boss. I reckon I owe you this much, but to be honest I still do not feel entirely comfortable.

His grin returned and the hold on Katherine's hand tightened. Television Katherine, television, that's what we're all about.

I know Bill, I know, Katherine whispered apprehensively.

*****

Later that night, Katherine, after a lot of soul searching at last stopped quibbling with herself and went to an antique styled telephone on a marble stand, which gave a sense of her appreciation of the finer things in life. On the wall above it hung a colourful ochre, white and black dot painting of Aboriginal art, although the lounge room contained other paintings of modern art, this had always been Katherine's favourite artwork, for it gave her a tangible connection to the custodians of the country she loved.

The call could not wait any longer, it had to be made before her husband arrived home and with an intake of breath, Katherine picked up the receiver and dialed Melinda Jackson's number and after the third ring Melinda answered. Hello, Melinda speaking.

Katherine quickly replied. Melinda... Katherine... how are you?

Getting by and you?

No real change, different day, same concerns.

I know what you mean Kathy, different day, same shit running around my head.

She did not answer Melinda and Katherine questioned if she had done the right thing in agreeing to become Bill Barnes's go to person and the extended silence caused Melinda to ask. Kathy, are you still there?

Yes Mel, I am still here. Aaaaah, today I had a meeting with Bill Barnes and he has offered us half a million dollars each for an exclusive one off interview on 'Eight at Eight' with Sonia Lee.

Another moment of silence and then Melinda gasped. Wow, that much... but Kathy do you think it's the wise thing to do?

Mel, I do not know, I told Bill that I would run it past you and that we would all have to agree to it.

What about Lyn? I see her most days and she hasn't come to terms with what happened, Lyn still struggles to understand that she's not to blame. What... what if she breaks down and confesses to killing...

The words stopped coming from Melinda and sobbing started. Katherine allowed her friend to cry for a while and then she sent a caressing voice down the line. Hey... hey... hey Mel calm down, nothing has been agreed to. What I suggest, is that we meet tomorrow and sound each other out on how we feel about this.

Melinda gave a sniffled reply. I guess there's no harm in discussing the offer, it is a lot of money.

Okay, we will just talk, lunch at 'Greggo's' tomorrow, I will contact Lyn and we will see you around one, is that alright with you Mel?

I suppose so, but are you sure Kathy, is this the right thing to do? Remember we made a pact together... not a word about...

Katherine cut in quickly. We are only going to talk Mel, nothing is final. Do not worry, because unless we are in full agreement, Bill Barnes gets to keep his money.

If that's what you want Kathy, I'll see you tomorrow, Melinda replied with a heavy sigh.

Chapter Two

Early the next morning and without any fanfare, the HMAS Kinimbla, an Australian Navy transport and supply ship berthed at the sugar wharf to refuel and take on supplies. For one officer, his time in the navy had come to an end and just after daybreak Petty Officer Geoff Kaynes, a tall, handsome, fit and suntanned man from his many years at sea, dressed in smart casual civilian clothes slowly walked the last few steps to the gangplank, where his Captain waited. The duffel bag he carried on his shoulder and containing all he owned was dropped to the deck and he came to attention.

His right arm snapped a salute, which was instantly returned by the senior officer, then hands were shaken and the Captain said. Sorry to be loosing you Kaynes, you've done your job extremely well and you're retiring at a young age.

Kaynes replied. In a way, I'm sorry to be going Sir.

Seventeen years in the navy and only eight short of a pension, I though we had you forever Kaynes, we've been your family for so long, The Captain replied.

I thought I'd be in the navy forever too Sir, it's all I've ever known, but I've been feeling it's time to move on for sometime now, try something new, you know what I mean.

The Captain agreed. Yes, I think I do Kaynes, do you have any plans?

Not really Sir, except to spend some time with my kid brother, it's been over two years since I last saw him, I just hope he's at the same address.

Well Kaynes, all the best in whatever you decide to do and look after yourself, there's a lot of strange people out there in civy street.

Thanks Captain, goodbye.

Goodbye Kaynes.

After a final handshake with his Captain, Geoff shouldered the duffel bag, gave a quick wave to watching shipmates and descended the gang plank. Without looking back at the ship which had been his home for the last seven years, Geoff strode across the wharf to the security gates, where a less than enthusiastic guard allowed him to pass, not bothering to ask for or check any documentation.

Outside the chain wire fence Geoff stopped for a few moments to get his bearings, he saw a public telephone box tucked in behind a small café, where a number of drivers milled about drinking coffee from paper cups as the waited their turn to be called onto the wharf to discharge their loads of freight. Geoff walked over to the phone, made a call to City Cabs and then he bought a coffee and waited.

Twenty minutes later Geoff saw his cab coming down the only road in and out of the sugar wharf complex. When it drew near he hailed the driver and the cab pulled up next to him, the duffel bag was quickly tossed on the back seat and Geoff got in the front. His brother's address was given to the driver and the cab moved off. Once on Lytton Road they were swallowed up in a passing parade of traffic, made up mostly of heavy vehicles heading to Fisherman's Island and the Port of Brisbane.

Even in the morning rush, the trip to Hemmet took only a quarter of an hour. The taxi pulled up in the driveway of a large redbrick apartment block. Geoff paid the driver and alighted, opened the rear door and retrieved the duffel bag. Almost as soon as the door had been slammed shut the cab moved off, leaving Geoff staring at the run down