Deception: Chronicles of Bretts Mountain Book 2

By Sandra K. Lee

Benson Carver had one thing in mind, revenge. Dominguez Talley killed his brother, and he would prove it. I will escape the walls of this prison to destroy that man, and his daughter Katie will assist me. She will gladly help me when I tell her what really caused her mothers death, he grinned as the warden counted his bribery money.

Although he was Katies bodyguard when she was young, he kidnapped her once before and he would do it, again. Nothing would stop him this time. Money is the root of all evil and he has plenty.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Sep 16, 2016
• ISBN: 9781524639563

Sandra K. Lee

Sandra K. Lee writes under her maiden name. She has been married to Curtis Utley, a wonderful man, for over forty years. They reside in western Kentucky. She and her husband enjoy cruising the seas and visiting foreign islands where people live off a different culture. She has many children, grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. She loves to write books and tell stories. She was born in St. Louis Missouri but reared in a small Tennessee border town by two Christian foster parents that gave her the love that every child deserves

Book preview

Prologue …

Resources for the State Prison were nearly exhausted. There weren’t enough funds in reserve to last another year to supply the prisoners’ food, or maintain their housing, so cuts had to be made immediately. Rehabilitated prisoners and those not convicted of murder were to be pardoned or paroled, and the notorious Benson Carver fit the category.

Benson Carver was ecstatic that it was only a courtroom formality. Soon I’ll be free to finish what I started, he beamed.

Catherine Margaret Canterfield, known as Katie by most and Little White Dove by some, sat silently as the judge explained to their lawyers that he could do nothing. Benson Carver had been selected for parole by the board. The court of appeals had decided that he was no longer a threat to society, but the victims of his crime were to be interviewed before a pardon could be accepted.

Brett sat beside his wife and watched silent tears fall softly down her cheeks as she trembled uncontrollably.

Katie could not imagine this creep being set free.

I will never forget the anguish and torment inflicted upon me by Benson Carver five years ago. I want to bury the past and look to the future, not over my shoulder for the rest of my life. The judge can’t parole him, he just can’t, she thought.

Seated behind Brett and Katie was Natasia Mason, another victim. Filled with anxiety, she stared at the door and waited for her worst nightmare to enter.

Mr. Mason firmly gripped his daughter’s shoulders. Sweetheart, they have not set him free, not yet. Be strong. Be brave.

Bennie’s nostrils flared with excess hate. But I will grin and bear my resentment until I can taste the fruits of freedom, he thought as he strutted into the room. He grinned, nodded, and then bowed to both women. The deputy shoved him down, hard, on the defendant’s seat in front of the judge.

His victims listened intently as he pled his case. He explained his regret for causing the women so much pain and anguish.

I let the money go to my head, Your Honor. He looked up at the judge and wiped big crocodile tears from his cheeks. I have learned my lesson. While I was on the force no one ever suspected, nor was I caught, doing the underhanded things I did for money. After I went to work for Katie’s father, I kidnapped his daughter and held her for ransom. I believed it would be easy money. Then I abducted Natasia and considered her father an easy extortion target, too. I am so sorry.

Bennie turned and faced Katie and Natasia. I am so remorseful for what I did to both of you, he sobbed. Won’t you please forgive me?

Okay. The judge shuffled his papers. Do you women have any objections to the early release of Benson Carver?

Although Bennie had made the judge believe he was regretful for his actions, Katie saw animosity in his eyes. No, he was not sorry. She had known him long enough to know that he was lying through his teeth. He wanted his freedom so that he could continue his life of crime.

Natasia stood first. I most definitely object Your Honor. Benson Carver put us through horrible torture, mentally and physically. He is the cruelest, most vicious, man, I have ever known. He has only spent five years and eighteen days in prison. I kept count of each one and I feel he should not be released early because of his gruesome wrong-doing.

The appellate court judge sat quietly and studied Natasia. Rattling his papers, he turned to Katie. Mrs. Canterfield. He looked over his dark-rimmed glasses. What is your response to his early release?

Catherine Canterfield stood. I feel the same as Natasia. Her knuckles were white as she held tightly to the seat in front of her to help sustain her emotions and balance. Your Honor, he apologized for what he did, and for that I am grateful. Nevertheless, I would be afraid for the rest of my life if he is released and I feel that he has not paid back enough to society.

The judge noted the horrified expressions of both women. Their fear was, without a doubt, sincere. The gavel struck solidly on the bench.

Benson Carver, please rise and face the court. Your release is denied. You are to be transported to the State Prison of Leavenworth, Kansas to remain until your sentence has been completed as was stated in the original document.

The judge watched Benson Carver’s attitude change. His facial expression went from remorse to that of a crazed man.

Bennie stood quickly and then turned and glared at Catherine.

I won’t forget this, Katie, he hissed through clenched teeth. He tried to shake free of the deputy’s grasp. I will get even with you when you least expect it, that I will!

Katie gasped as the deputy removed Bennie from her presence and hustled him from the courtroom.

Revenge burned Benson Carver. In the near future I will be free, then I will arrange the most gruesome way for Katie to pay for my time in this stinking hole. She has caused me pointless misery, and when I’m on the streets again, she will be on the receiving end of pain!

… Adsila hasn’t returned …

Katie stretched and welcomed the warmth of the morning sun as it sifted through the thin lacy curtains. Her thoughts were of her beloved Brett. He’ll be away at least a few more weeks on the cattle roundup. Holding back tears of longing, she closed her eyes. Gosh, I sure do miss him.

Adsila entered the room and sat on the edge of Katie’s bed.

Are you awake? she whispered. I made breakfast and its getting cold. Think you can eat something?

Katie knew she should have already had a checkup with Dr. Blackwell. She had been sick ever since the court hearing but had associated it with a nervous stomach. Yet, she had never been sick this long.

Adsila handed her some crackers.

Just let me lie here for a bit and nibble on the saltines before I get up, she said. Maybe my nausea will subside.

The young girl watched as her idol let the crackers dissolve in her mouth.

Why are you looking at me like that? Katie stopped eating. Is there something wrong?

Adsila shook her head. No ma’am, I was just thinking how lucky I am to have you for my second mom.

Come here, you, Katie hugged her tightly. We are the lucky ones, Adsila. You have brought so much happiness into our home, and you helped Brett through a rough time in his life. It was a blessing the day you brought him that wolf pup. He began to realize how much he missed children.

Adsila felt tears begin to build, so she took Katie’s hand and pulled her off the bed. We better hurry or you will eat a cold omelet.

They giggled as they slowly descended the stairs.

Francis, the maid, stood beside the prepared breakfast table. Adsila cooked your breakfast again this morning, she grumped, so don’t blame Constance if the food tastes bad.

It’s okay. Katie hugged Adsila’s shoulders and grinned. I will only blame Adsila.

Humph, Francis adjusted her apron, just goes to show you how much we’re appreciated around here. Now, if it were up to me ...

Oh, now, Francis, Katie cut in. I wouldn’t know what to do without you or Constance. Adsila just wanted to do something extra special for me.

Well, we’ll let it slide this time, Francis winked at Katie, but she had better watch out or she will be doing all the cooking.

Katie almost choked on her food. The maid was only teasing, but the girl stood there with her hands on her hips bobbing her head. Adsila thought the maids were serious and that she had outdone them.

From the corner of her eyes, Katie watched the girl’s expression. Can I fix your breakfast every morning? Adsila whispered. I can fix it better, cause I love you.

Don’t push your luck, sweetie, She whispered to Adsila. They’re bigger than you.

The young girl sat on a revolving stool beside Katie. Slowly, she began to spin around. I need to go into town today. Adsila watched Katie’s expression change. I’ll be careful, and be back before you even miss me.

Now, Adsila, you know that Brett doesn’t want you going to SpurLacy alone, she frowned. I will have Joe run you to town in the truck.

I’m a big girl. Adsila stretched as tall as she could. And, besides, he is busy. He told me yesterday that he was behind with oiling the rig.

He is not that busy, Katie frowned. I’ll ask him to wait until tomorrow to oil the leather. I am sure it will be okay.

Katie had barely finished her breakfast when baby sounds came through the monitor. Eighteen-month-old Brianna decided it was time to get up. That woke six-month-old Lindy Sue. LaToya, their nanny, hurried upstairs to attend to the babies.

The day had begun. Diaper changing, feeding, and about half an hour of fun while bathing the baby girls.

LaToya, I’m leaving the babies in your care today, Katie hugged a giggling Lindy Sue. I feel somewhat better and plan to work outside. The weatherman is forecasting rain later this afternoon and I want to replant my flowers around the big tree before it gets here.

The nanny grinned from ear to ear as she took Lindy Sue from her mother’s arms. She loved it when she had full control. The baby giggled as she lifted her onto her hip.

Katie tied her brightly colored bandana carefully around her hair, adjusted it, and then took Adsila’s hand. Come on, sweetie, I will speak to Joe.

Holding hands, they skipped along the pathway that led to the tack room. Katie hugged the dark-haired child beside her. She loved Adsila as though she were her very own. She honored Morning Star, Adsila’s mother, for letting her stay with them most of the time.

Joe held a grimy bridle that he was preparing to oil, but laid it aside when Katie entered the room. I need you to wait until later to finish your tasks, she said. Adsila needs an escort into town.

I need a break anyway. He thumped the end of Adsila’s nose. SpurLacy sounds good. I need a few things, too.

Adsila giggled, although she had hoped that he would tell Mama Kate that he was too busy.

Joe looked at his watch, If we leave now we can be back before noon, which would give me plenty of time to finish the gear before dark.

Thanks, Joe, Katie said. I will be at the house. Let me know the moment you return. I know it’s silly but I can’t help worrying.

Are you ready, little lady? Joe asked as he climbed in the old pickup and turned the key. It sputtered, black smoke rolled, but then it came to life.

Adsila climbed into the rickety old truck that Joe used to deliver supplies to the ranch and rolled down the window.

She nodded her head in agreement. I am sorry for taking you away from your chores.

That’s okay I needed a break, anyway. He gave her a wink. The work can wait.

She wanted to hurry but knew that if she said anything it would draw suspicion. I overheard Mama Kate talking about the court hearing and Benson Carver’s parole. I knew she would worry about me going to SpurLacy alone but when I received that wonderful letter from my pen pal I wanted to meet him. He is only here today visiting family. I don’t like to sneak behind Mama Kate’s back, but this is the only chance I have to meet my newest friend. I will get away from Joe somehow once we get there, she thought.

Later that afternoon, Katie began to worry and started walking the floor. I cannot forget the day of the hearing when Benson Carver glared at me, or when he stated that he would get even.

What is wrong with Lindy Sue? Katie snapped at LaToya.

The baby is cranky, ma’am because she’s teething, the nanny explained. I will rub the numbing ointment on her gums and she will be fine.

I know. Katie lowered her eyes. I am sorry, LaToya, it’s just that I’m so upset. Joe and Adsila should have been back hours ago.

Katie needed some fresh air, so she walked outside and sat on the front porch swing. A chill ran up her back. Nevertheless, she enjoyed sitting outside. It was early spring and the tree leaves had not fully developed, but the mountains were beautiful, and she so loved the scenery.

She traced the arm of the swing with her finger and began to reminisce. Maria sat beside me on these same steps while we consumed the beauty of this extraordinary mountain. That was the day she told me about Brett and his children. I wanted to be part of the Canterfield family but I did not dare mention it to her at that time because I wasn’t sure of Brett feelings or his intentions. So long ago, and yet it seems like yesterday. I am so happy here, but I miss the warmth of Maria and Little Dove’s company.

A bright flash of light in the mountain drew Katie’s attention, but just as quickly vanished. Crisp cool air crept up her shirt as she stepped back inside the house.

Just before dark, Katie decided to check the tack room. She slipped a shawl around her shoulders and stepped out into the brisk air. Possibly some of the ranch hands have returned and, if so, I can send them to fetch Joe and Adsila. A surreal feeling washed over her as she entered the darkly shadowed room. She flipped on the ceiling light and glanced around. An uneasiness filled her senses. She felt like something, or someone watched her every move. Lightning flashed, and immediately followed by a clap of thunder. The wind picked up in velocity, warning that a violent storm was soon inevitable.

Katie felt compelled to urgently run for the safety of home and lock the heavy wood door behind her. She made a dash for the porch and slipped safely inside. As she closed the front door, a weird noise came from the basement. Quickly, she slipped the deadbolt, closing off the basement entrance into the house, and then hurried to the parlor. An eerie feeling had kept her jumpy all day. It cannot be Bennie down there. He’s been transferred to another State Penitentiary to finish the rest of his sentence, but I had this same fear deep in my soul when he kidnapped me five years ago.

LaToya sat in the parlor while both babies played with toys at her feet. The table was cleared, and the maids had settled in the drawing room with their knitting.

Come into the parlor, Katie whispered to Francis. I heard something in the basement.

What? What did you say? Constance spoke loudly. You heard something?

Shh! Katie held her finger to her lips. Be quiet, we have uninvited guests!

Constance gasped, grabbed Francis by the arm, and dragged her toward the parlor.

Gimme a bat or a club. Constance pushed up her sleeves and then shoved Francis to the floor beside LaToya. I will beat the varmints until they wish they had never come here. Why, they’ll have black eyes, bloody noses, and wish they had never been born when I’m finished.

Amazed, Katie stared wide-eyed at Constance. The cook looked as if she were ready to tackle a bear head on! She headed toward the basement door with no weapon whatsoever. Katie barely caught her before she unbolted the door.

What are you doing? You may be brave, but there’s no telling what’s down there, she stammered. Go back to the parlor.

Katie picked up the house telephone and clicked the receiver several times but the line was dead. I have no alternative but to contact the sheriff. I need him to locate Joe. Something is wrong, and I better not take any unnecessary chances, she thought.

Ladies, Katie stressed, stay calm. Whatever is down there might be harmful to us, so stay focused.

Where is Brett’s shotgun? Constance asked.

Hanging on the rack in the mud room beside the back door, Katie frowned, astonished by the question. I don’t know what you expect to do because it will knock you down should you fire it.

With her head held high, Constance hurried to the mud room. The only thing on her mind was to retrieve the gun. She found a shell in the table drawer beneath the gun rack and quickly loaded the chamber.

She clomped loudly as she headed back to the parlor, holding the gun firmly. Without warning, she lost her footing on a throw rug and fell. The gun discharged, missing Katie’s leg by only a few inches.

What are you doing, Constance? Put that gun down before you kill one of us, Katie yelled. Do it now!

Constance gave Katie a hard stare and then moved toward the stairs. You didn’t realize that I deliberately planned that fall. If it had worked, a trip to Doctor Blackman would have been necessary, even during this dreadful storm. If I hadn’t missed, we would be on our way to Dr. Blackman’s right now, but Dratz, I missed!

LaToya pressed her lips against the top of Brianna’s head and giggled nervously. I bet that scared the varmint away. My ears are still ringing.

Suddenly the power surged and the electricity went off, leaving the women and babies in the dark. The babies became scared and screamed to the top of their lungs. LaToya gathered them close, speaking softly to console the frightened infants.

Katie tried her cell phone again; no signal. She had always gotten a signal on the high ridge but that was a half mile away. There is no way I’m leaving the security of these walls tonight, she shivered. No sirree!

Holy cow, I have my hands full. Katie ran her hands through her hair. These women are out of control. They are scared and have no idea how to protect themselves. Constance cannot handle a gun, Francis is crying, and now Latoya is laughing. The phone is dead and the lights are off!

She felt her way along the wall to the foyer and then hurried up the dark stairs. What else is going to happen tonight? She thought. The armoire where I keep my emergency candles is upstairs in the first bedroom. I must retrieve them and put some light in this house before someone gets killed.

As she reached the top step, lightning revealed a human form. She couldn’t distinguish the face, but strong hands grasped her shoulders and shoved her backward. She fell down the long flight of stairs, brutalizing her body with each step she hit, causing unbearable pain. She lay unconscious in a crumpled heap near the newel post.

Chills went up Francis’ back as Katie’s blood-curdled scream filled the air. She felt her way along the wall toward the sound and then stumbled over an object. Ms. Katie, is that you? she yelled frantically.

Francis remembered that they had left a croquet set in the hall, along with a hammer they had used to drive the stakes in the ground. She searched along the wall to retrieve something to use as a weapon. Picking up the first thing she touched, she flung it at the perpetrator with all her strength.

Watch who you’re hitting. You nearly knocked me down, Constance squealed. What’s that you got in your hand, a mallet?

Oh, sorry, Francis gasped. I thought someone broke in, and was choking Ms. Katie, but it was you beside her!

Aw, now, Francis, no one can get in here. This house is like a fortress, Constance jibed. It’s just your imagination running wild again. There is no one here except us.

I suppose you’re right. Well, don’t just stand there yapping. Help me get her back to the parlor. Lightning flashed through the windows every few seconds, lighting up the room. Could I have been mistaken, or was what I saw real? If what I saw was true, then it was Constance choking her, but why? She wondered.

Francis grunted as they lugged Katie’s limp body onto the sofa. I’m worried about Joe and Adsila. With this raging storm, something awful may have happened to them.

They are fine. Let that be the least of your worries, Constance smirked. You are in a mound of trouble here.

What do you mean, that I’m in a mound of trouble? Francis didn’t like the tone of Constance’s voice. There are more people here than just me!

Oh, I didn’t mean just you, dearie. Constance patted Fran’s shoulder. I meant all of us are in a heap of trouble.

Do you think we are going to have a tornado, Francis? LaToya shivered. I’m afraid of storms.

Are we going to have a tornado, Francis? Constance mimicked, towering over LaToya. No, we’re not. Stop being stupid. I’ll bring the Cadillac around front. You, two ninnies, tote Katie to the door and help me put her in the car. I’m taking her to the doctor because her neck or back could be broken.

Francis was dumbfounded. Is she crazy? No one in their right mind would attempt to drive in this storm. Constance sure is acting weird. I better let Latoya know to be careful of her, without her knowing it. She has gone stark-raving mad!

The room was dark, except for the shards of lightning which were almost constant. Francis was shaking – not only from the storm but because Constance had taken charge.

Katie remained still as she began to rouse from her unconscious state. She didn’t want anyone to realize that she was awake until she could take control.

Finally, after several moments Katie opened her eyes and rubbed her throat. I feel like I swallowed an apple whole. I must calm my fears. That was no stranger. Someone intentionally shoved me down the stairs. I may be a bit confused right now but I definitely remember what took place. I don’t understand which one of my girls would do such a thing to me. But, more than that, why?

LaToya sat on the floor, holding the babies on her lap. Katie leaned forward and whispered softly into her hair. Move closer to me so I can protect you, someone tried to kill me. There’s no telling who might be next.

LaToya scooted next to Katie and rested her head against her arm.

Hand me the gun, Katie’s voice quivered, so I can protect us.

There aren’t any more shells, Constance snapped. "There was only one in the cabinet and that gun kicks hard. Anyway, I’m bringing the Caddy around front to take you to the doctor. That