The Serenity of Solitude: A Jessie Whyne Mystery, #4

By Danni Roan

Jessie Whyne seems to have it all with a newfound sense of purpose and a boyfriend who is as interested in uncovering the truth as she is. A cozy home, a crazy mutt to keep her company, and a job she loves fill her life.

When a strange plea arrives on her doorstep, will Jessie be able to uncover the mystery and escape the pitfalls of life, or will she stumble upon secrets too heavy to bear?

Danger, intrigue, and revelations await, wrapped in the serenity of solitude.

Unfortunately, not every path leads to the answers you seek. Jessie will need a keen mind and an unshakable faith to find love in a lost world. It will take a three strand cord of strength to bring hope in darkness.

Christian Mystery and Romance, rolled into one.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Danni Roan
• Release date: Nov 16, 2022
• ISBN: 9798215546772

Danni Roan

About the Author Danni Roan, a native of western Pennsylvania, spent her childhood roaming the lush green mountains on horseback. She has always loved westerns and specifically western romance and is thrilled to be part of this exciting genre. She has lived and worked overseas with her husband and tries to incorporate the unique quality of the people she has met throughout the years into her books. Although Danni is a relatively new author on the scene she has been a story teller for her entire life, even causing her mother to remark that as a child “If she told a story, she had to tell the whole story.” Danni is truly excited about this new adventure in writing and hopes that you will enjoy reading her stories as much as she enjoys writing them.

Book preview

Introduction

Jessie Whyne seems to have it all with a newfound sense of purpose and a boyfriend who is as interested in uncovering the truth as she is. A cozy home, a crazy mutt to keep her company, and a job she loves fill her life.

When a strange plea arrives on her doorstep, will Jessie be able to uncover the mystery and escape the pitfalls of life, or will she stumble upon secrets too heavy to bear?

Danger, intrigue, and revelations await, wrapped in the serenity of solitude.

Unfortunately, not every path leads to the answers you seek. Jessie will need a keen mind and an unshakable faith to find love in a lost world. It will take a three strand cord of strength to bring hope in darkness.

Christian Mystery and Romance, rolled into one.

For this reason, a man will leave his mother and father and be united with his wife and the two will be come one flesh.

Ephesians 5:31

Chapter 1

Jessie pulled into the drive at the front of her house and peered through the windshield of her blue and white Mini Cooper. A smile graced her pretty face, and she brushed her long chestnut hair over a shoulder. It always felt good to come home. At her age to have her own place was truly unbelievable. Jessie had owned this house for nearly three years now and it was more than enough for her needs.

Happy to be home? The young woman turned to look at her companion, who blinked soulful brown eyes at her from the passenger seat. Jessie laughed, scratching her dog’s head. The big black mutt had grown so much since she had rescued him that summer. He weighed more than seventy pounds already and was still growing. I might need to buy a new car, she laughed, You’re out growing this one. The twenty-three-year-old woman opened the car door, reaching down and wagging a finger at the dog when he moved toward her. You wait. Walking around the car, she opened the passenger door and grabbed Muttley’s leash. Good boy.

Jessie looked up, her eyes following the winding path of brick to her house. The clapboard siding of the 1930s Arts and Crafts home was a pale teal-blue accented with cream window frames and highlights of burnt ocher. The door was a bright splash of color in salmon, and the wrap-around porch reflected the scheme with cream railings and darker teal highlights. It was perfect—a welcome space after a long morning of training with her oversized puppy.

Come on. She released the line on the dog and he raced up the stairs dashing across the porch to the front door and waiting for her impatiently. Hello! Jessie’s voice echoed as she pushed through the glass storm door, wondering if her partner was at home. As soon as the door was open the dog moved toward the side door, then stopped looking back at Jessie for permission.

Go on. She laughed again, placing her bag on the counter top of the kitchen.

Hey, you’re back. A man’s voice called from the other room as the dog dashed across the hardwood floor, skidding to a stop at a large desk and slamming into a tall man sitting there.

Hi. Jessie walked to the desk, leaning over it and giving her boyfriend, Theo, a soft kiss. They had been dating for the past few months and though she didn’t know where it was going, she cared for the tall man with the warm brown eyes and goofy grin. I like the new haircut. She ruffled his dark brown hair. It was getting rather unruly. Jessie had been surprised when the young man had let his hair grow long and unruly, but this close cropped look was nice. She smiled, pulling a paper from behind her back. Look what we got today. She waved the document before him.

The man leaned across the desk, reading the page. Certificate of Completion. He chuckled. Looks like you finally graduated, he added looking at Muttley, who sat, tail thumping the area rug. Good boy. Jessie smiled when Theo gave the dog an approving pat. Earlier that summer he had helped her rescue the abandoned pup, working his way deeper into her heart.

Mutt was a star pupil. Jessie placed the paper on a side table before walking around the desk. Dropping and arm over his shoulders she studied Theo, also known as Buzz to his friends. He swiveled the chair, pulling her into his lap. I missed you. I thought you’d be back sooner.

We stopped at the pet store to socialize. Jessie wrapped an arm around his neck. She liked the way it felt being close to Theo. She had stopped calling him Buzz when they had started dating and working together. Buzz had grown into the name, even as their relationship had grown. Anything new today? She nodded toward the computer screen he had been studying.

A few easy cases. I’m already on them. No major detective stuff. Missing pets. A few background checks. He shrugged. Nothing big. Jessie, looked down, falling into his dark eyes. Her feelings for the young man seemed to grow stronger the more time they spent together. Now that they were both working together and dating, she was getting to know who he really was. Theo, was tall, lean, handsome, and fun, but he was also serious and protective. A former Macon policeman, he had seen danger and wanted to keep her from it.

You like it that way. Jessie grinned, kissing his cheek. Slow, steady, and safe. Their detective service had already had several successes and a few close calls as well. She had met Theo two years earlier when troubles in her home had been haunting her sleep. Together they had gotten to the bottom of that mystery, and soon another one.

You know it. Theo chuckled, his eyes sparkling. We have paying customers. We’re helping people and we’re doing what we love. Without getting into any trouble. He smiled a sly grin that made the young woman laugh. The private detective game doesn’t have to be dark and dangerous. It can be safe and stable

Jessie wiped the hint of pale lipstick from his cheek, before squirming off his lap. This was classic Theo, steady and safe. Turning she leaned one hand on the desk, the other on Theo’s shoulder as she gazed at the computer screen. I’ve been thrilled with how this endeavor has worked out so far. She stood straight, crossing her arms and looking at her boyfriend. A smile twitched and she reached down to scratch Muttley’s head. I’ve got a strange feeling, though. There is something for us to do.

Please don’t say that. Theo groaned, looking up, his handsome face troubled. You know your feelings always lead us places we don’t expect to go.

Jessie shrugged. God gave me this job to do. I have to follow where that leads. Her heart was light. She loved this job.

I know. Theo sighed, flicking through the emails. A relatively new believer, Theo was learning to trust in God. but doing this job has led you into danger.

Jessie dropped an arm over Theo’s shoulders. Faith isn’t just for good times. She smiled, liking the feel of him. He was warm, strong, and solid. Theo worked out regularly and they ran together nearly every day. As a former Macon policeman, Theo was well versed in the law and had seen his fair share of the seedy side of life. He had been crucial in helping her dig to the bottom of three mysteries in the past two years. Jessie could never fully express her feelings for the man, at least not yet. Her heart thumped as she looked at his handsome, if worried face. We never expected this to be easy. She touched his face, feeling and hearing his weary sigh.

Just don’t borrow trouble. Theo shook his head, his short-cropped brown hair barely moving. You tend to jump in without looking. His brown eyes met hers and she could see emotions flutter like troubled waters in their depths

Why do you think I keep you around? Jessie’s laugh made the tall man groan. You help keep me out of trouble. She smiled and the man stood pulling her into his warm embrace. Jessie leaned into him, wrapping her arms around his slim waist. His warmth washed a great deal of tension from her shoulders.

I try. Theo released her and turned back to the computer as a message pinged. One hand on her hip Jessie watched her boyfriend scowl at the new message. Clicking on the link he opened the page. This is a missing person case. Theo stiffened. We don’t do those. That is for the police. He turned as Jessie read the words on the screen. Jessie, a nine-year-old, is asking to hire us to find her father. This is not a good idea.

Jessie leaned in resting her hands on the desk and scanning the message, as Theo’s words drifted above.

Dear Ms. Whyne,

My name is Amanda and I’d like you to help find my daddy. He went away two years ago and Mommy says he just doesn’t want to be here anymore, but I know that isn’t true. Daddy would never leave my mommy or me. I miss him so much. I saw the news report where you helped that nice lady find her missing dog and want to hire you to help me. I don’t have much money, but I will give you all of my allowance forever if you can help me.

Thank you.

Amanda.

I’ve got that funny feeling, Jessie whispered and Theo wrapped an arm around her waist protectively as she straightened, turning to him. We need to take this.

God helps us, Theo sighed, pulling her closer. I don’t like the idea of meddling in police business. Jessie raised a brow, stepping back. Maybe it will turn out to be nothing. Theo’s shoulders slumped even as his voice was hopeful. His brown eyes found and met Jessie’s blue-green gaze. Why do I have a feeling that will not be the case? He shook his head showing his doubt.

We can hope. Jessie turned back to the screen breaking the embrace. We’ll pray about it. Her heart pounded and a strange feeling tugged at her middle. Jessie looked back at Theo as his hand dropped to her shoulder. Then we’ll see if we can set up a time to meet with Amanda. That is only if her mother will allow it. We can hear them out and then decide.

Theo turned away from her, running his hands through his hair as he paced the small space behind the desk. Stopping before her once more he addressed Jessie. You know that they say never work with children or animals in show business. Theo grinned before growing serious once more. Jessie, if this is an active case, we can’t touch it. You know that right?

I know. She had already turned back to the screen, scanning the letter once more as Theo slipped into the chair preparing to write a response. If the police are actively involved we won’t take the case. Her fingers flew over the keys.

What do you want to do? Theo sounded resigned, but Jessie knew his mind was already working on the situation. I still hope it turns out to be nothing. The worry in his voice was evident, but so was the determination.

Finished with her work Jessie looked down at Muttley, who rested his chin on her knee. I think it’s too late for that to be true. A warm chuckle rolled out of her and she looked up, studying the man’s face. Jessie had liked Theo from the minute they met, but that friendship had turned into something more over time. Jessie was beginning to understand that she was one of those people who needed to get to know someone before her feelings could begin to grow. Or maybe growing up in a well-to-do-home, she had been sheltered from her feelings. Either way, she was starting to find her feelings for the young man, her partner in detective work, growing more profound by the day.

You’re not going to let me out of this, are you? Theo tipped his head, his dark eyes sparkling.

Nope. Jessie tapped the screen her heart skipping a beat at how he looked at her. We’ve been busy with light work. We’ve learned a lot about how to investigate. Maybe we’re up for a challenge now.

The front door opened, and Jessie hurried toward the other room wondering who could be there. Hello? Her voice was questioning as she moved to the door.

Jess? It’s me. A familiar female voice made Jessie smile as she hurried to hug her best friend.

Cheryl, what are you doing here? Jessie squeezed her friend tight, squashing the familiar, long, blonde ponytail in her arms. I didn’t expect you.

I thought I’d stop by and see what you two are up to. The tall blonde peeked into the office waving. Hey, Theo, she giggled. I’m glad you finally grew into that name. She tipped her head, but the ‘buzz’ cut works she made air quotes around the word buzz, laughing as she referenced his former nickname.

The tall man groaned, waving her away as he turned back to the computer screen. It was obvious he was trying to ignore her jab and Jessie couldn’t hide her smile. She knew that Theo loved Cheryl as much as she did but the vivacious woman was a lot to take all at once.

What are you wearing today? Jessie stepped back changing the subject and taking in her friend's solid black jumpsuit. It has bell bottoms. The other woman laughed, her eyes running over the outfit that looked like it would have fit in on one of the actresses in an old Charlie’s Angels episode .The back is open all the way to the small of your back. Jessie gasped. It does look nice.

Cheryl grinned, spinning as she flipped her ponytail over one shoulder to show her exposed back. I got it at the new thrift store down town. I know it isn’t colorful, but it has a certain elegance. The woman, only a couple of years older than Jessie lifted her chin, striking a pose.

Jessie laughed, slapping at her friend playfully. You always did have your own sense of style. Cheryl was known for her flamboyant taste in clothing and her penchant for retro fashion. They had been friends for a long time.

So, what are you two doing tonight? Cheryl asked, turning and heading for the fridge. Her tone was light, but Jessie could hear a hint of deceptions. Opening the door and leaning into the stainless steel appliance Cheryl grabbed a glass pitcher of iced tea. Do you have plans? She turned looking at Jessie, holding the jug in both hands as the door swung shut.

Jessie tipped her head, giving her friend a curious look. Why? her tone spoke volumes of suspicion. What are you up to? Jessie crossed her arms waiting while her friend looked on innocently.

I thought you might like to go on a double date. Cheryl had turned away again, placing the pitcher on the marble counter top with a soft clink before reaching into a cherry cabinet for three tumblers which she quickly filled with ice.

Silence echoed in the kitchen as Jessie gaped at her oldest friend, while Cher continued what she was doing.

Did you say double date? Theo slipped through the door leaning a shoulder against the frame. At six-foot-five the tall man’s head just missing the top of the doorway. His brown eyes met Jessie’s and he grinned, his voice curious.

I did. Cheryl began filling the glasses with tea. What do you say? she asked finally looking at them as she handed out the drinks. Jessie could see the barely contained excitement in her friend. Waiting for a reply Cheryl returned to the kitchen counter and leaned against the island. Lifting her drink and sipping as her eyes flicked between her two friends.

Jessie stared at Cheryl, blinked several times, before she looked at Theo. The tall man shrugged showing his confusion and indifference.

Well? Cheryl huffed, standing up. Will you go or not? Her voice shook slightly with emotion. Say yes, her voice pleaded.

I thought you didn’t have time to date? Jessie squinted at her friend, eyes suspicious. You’re always too busy with work and school.

It just happened. Cheryl giggled, rolling one shoulder, as Muttley trotted into the kitchen, trying to look at everyone at once. Unable to keep an eye on everyone, he laid down at Jessie’s feet. Besides, I’m almost done with my degree and it’s time I start thinking about the future. She wrinkled her nose. You have time to date. Why shouldn’t I. Cheryl’s eyes flashed with mischief as she tried to look haughty and happy all at once.

Theo raised a dark brow turning to look at Jessie. I’m okay with it if you are. His voice was soft and Jessie could tell he was trying to keep from setting Cheryl off. She already looked tense.

Jessie narrowed her eyes. Where would we go? I’m not letting you rope me into some crazy excursion. You have a knack for the weird. She watched her friend closely, looking for any hint of deception.

Hey! Cheryl stood up straighter, looking indignant. Huffing she continued. Well, okay. That’s true. A slow smile spread across her classically pretty face and her blue eyes sparked. This time, I thought we could go to one of those escape rooms in Atlanta. I figured you and Theo would be good at that sort of thing.

Jessie took a deep breath. I don’t know if we can get into one on such short notice. She flashed a knowing glance at Theo. She didn’t really want to let Cheryl put her through her ‘detective paces’ in front of a stranger.

So you’ll go? Cheryl kicked her feet on the floor with excitement, laughing when Muttley stood giving a sharp bark.

Ssh. Jessie placed her hand on the dog’s head, soothing. If you can make it happen. Jessie said doubtfully as she looked at Theo who nodded. She knew that Cheryl was clever and had connections through the local college but even she couldn’t magically get tickets for the escape rooms in Atlanta at a moment’s notice.

Yippie! Chery placed her drink on the counter and rushed to hug her friend. I already have the tickets and Jake will meet us there. She squealed again and this time Muttley hopped, barking at her enthusiasm. "It’s going to be so much fun!’

Jessie laughed, shaking her head. I knew it. I knew you had this whole thing planned. Now, who is Jake? She placed her hands on her hips, pinning Cheryl with a look. Her friend always had something up her sleeve and her flamboyant personality, loved the dramatic.

Nope. Cheryl returned to her spot by the counter, retrieving her tea and holding it like a shield against Jessie’s questions. I’m not telling you anything. She shook her head emphatically, making her waist length ponytail swish. You can form your impression when you meet him tonight. She flashed a disapproving look at Theo. And this way, you can’t run a background check on him or something. Her eyes glinted with disapproval.

Me? Theo’s eyebrows rose. Me? He thumped his chest in mock chagrin.

Yes, you. I know how you operate Theo, and being a former cop makes it much worse. Please don’t interrogate him tonight. Her voice was pleading and her shoulders sagged. I really like this guy.

Jessie slipped in beside her boyfriend, taking his hand. We’ll be on our best behavior. Her eyes flicked to Theo and she caught his slight nod. Though I’m not sure, this is fair. You ambushed us. How long have you been seeing this guy?

Cheryl blew out a breath and smiled, placing her drink on the counter. I met him last week. I’m not telling you anything else. You’ll just have to wait and meet him. She pulled the oversized white leather bag from her shoulder, an odd contrast to her black jumpsuit. "Here are your tickets, she pulled the tickets from her bag, thrusting them at Jessie as she walked toward the door, pant suit swishing with each step.

Special Ops? Jessie looked at the tickets. Urgh. This sound hard. She looked up at Cheryl. I think you’re setting us up. Secretly Jessie had always wanted to do an escape room but hadn’t mustered the nerve yet. Her oldest friend knew her well and if curiosity about the man in Cher’s life wasn’t enough, the draw of a mystery room would do.

Cheryl, shook her head, pausing at the door. It will be fun. Besides, we’re all smart. We’ll figure it out. Cheryl laughed. Except you, she looked at Muttley, who wagged his tail inching close as he waited for her to pet him. But you’re a good boy.

He is. Jessie handed the tickets to Theo, giving him a resigned look and a wink. the mutt graduated today. She turned back to Cheryl with a smile. He was top in his class.

Good boy. Cheryl, squatted even making that motion seem sophisticated as she stroked the dog’s head, her pale pink nails flashed in the soft light coming through the storm door. And we look good together. Too bad you can’t come tonight. Muttley huffed softly, looking over his shoulder at Jessie as if he understood.

No. Jessie crossed her arms and the dog turned back to Cheryl, letting her scratch his ears before she stood. Cheryl gave the mutt one more pat then reached for the door. I’ll see you two at seven. She gave a little skip, her heavy black wedge-heeled sandals clicking on the tile floor.

No need to dress up if you don’t want to. She turned at the door, giving Jessie’s jeans and t-shirt a less than flattering look. Love you. She blew a kiss, her pink nails matching her lipstick perfectly as she stepped out the door and disappeared.

What just happened? Theo ran a hand behind his neck, giving Jessie a sideways look. I feel like I’ve been hit by a truck.

We just got wrangled into an escape room and probably a late dinner. Jessie smiled, offering a soft laugh. That’s Cher. She tends to get her way. Jessie squeezed his hand, leaning in and kissing his cheek. Oh, and we have to dress up a bit.

What? Cheryl just said we didn’t need to? Theo tipped his head, confused.

Oh, she definitely expects us to dress appropriately. Jessie couldn’t hold back the laugh. With her friend you had to read between the lines. As annoying as Cheryl could be she had a big heart and it was obvious that her new beau was important to her. Meeting him was going to be a wild ride.

Somehow I think I just got shoehorned into something, but I still don’t feel like I’ve been bossed. Theo shifted to stand in front of Jessie, taking her other hand as he looked into her eyes. I’ve found your friend has a knack for that.

That is because she is so much fun, no one seems to mind. Jessie laughed, smiling wider when he leaned in and kissed her. As the kiss ended, Theo stepped back, putting a bit of space between them. You realize that is Cheryl’s special skill. It’s why the professors all love her.

We have had some adventures, haven’t we? The man looked out the door as Cheryl’s car rolled away. She was very helpful last summer at the beach.

Yes, and Cher has helped in many ways. Jessie sighed. I wonder who this mystery man is? I hope he’s the real deal. Cheryl has so much love to give I’d hate to see her crushed. Jessie looked down studying her red tennis shoes as she started to ponder what to wear on their double date. She loved Cher and wanted her to find what she and Theo were discovering.

Hey, Theo placed a finger under her chin, forcing her to look at him. Have a little faith. Cheryl, as frivolous as she seems, is one smart cookie. Besides, I think she wants our opinion on this guy, whoever he is. He grinned. Even if we’re not allowed to go poking into his past.

Jessie nodded as he released her. You’re right. We’ve both learned that a little faith goes a long way. Her heart swelled thankful for the change in Theo’s life. Much of the old anger from his life as an officer had passed. He had found peace in the promises of the Lord.

Faith as small as a mustard seed. Theo grinned. I’m still getting used to this God thing. He shook his head, retaking Jessie’s hand. How about a walk to clear our heads?

That would be nice. Jessie squeezed his fingers as she called Muttley to heel and they headed out into the warm Georgia sunshine.

So, have you ever done one of these escape rooms? Jessie asked as she let Theo lead them down the stairs to the sidewalk. The first hint of autumn was beginning to peak through in the higher reaches of the hills, but the temperatures were still warm.

No. Theo smiled. But I know someone who has. His smile widened as Jessie looked toward him then stopped.

Jessie pulled him to a standstill with her, meeting his eyes. Who? Her suspicion was peeked.

Uncle Paul. Theo chuckled at her look of surprise. "You can’t seriously be surprised. This Paul Higgins. Detective extraordinaire.

What? Jessie gaped. You’re Uncle Paul has been to an escape room? When?

Theo chuckled, teasing. He took Beryl a few weeks ago. He said it was easy, but Beryl didn’t like it. She felt confined.

Jessie released his hand and looked at her watch. It’s only two now. How about we take a quick trip to The Estonia and have a little chat with your uncle? She winked. We don’t want to let Cheryl down, you know. What would her new beau think if we failed to solve the mystery? A bubble of excitement popped inside her. This was going to be fun.

Theo leaned in, kissing her again. Come on. He looked at the mutt. Ready for a car ride?

The dog yipped,