A Song In The Night

By Michael Parker

Travis Blake wanted a quiet self-drive holiday, but he hadn't planned on stopping on the long empty Wyoming road for a woman whose truck had broken down. She just wanted a lift a few miles to her home town, Mason Falls. Travis agreed, but what he wasn't to know that his quiet holiday was to be blown apart by murder, blackmail and betrayal.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Michael Parker
• Release date: May 22, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223680338

Michael Parker

Michael Parker is responsible for Intel’s FPGA division digital signal processing (DSP) product planning. This includes Variable Precision FPGA silicon architecture for DSP applications, DSP tool development, floating point tools, IP and video IP. He joined Altera (now Intel) in January 2007, and has over 20 years of previous DSP engineering design experience with companies such as Alvarion, Soma Networks, Avalcom, TCSI, Stanford Telecom and several startup companies. He holds an MSEE from Santa Clara University, and BSEE from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

Book preview

Chapter 1

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There was little going through Travis Blake’s mind when he saw the girl about four hundred yards ahead on the long road along which he was driving. At first she was just a figure leaning up against a pickup truck, but when she saw his car, she pushed herself away from the truck and started waving frantically.

There was little vegetation either side of the road, just clusters of sagebrush and little else. He could see no other figures by the truck, just the girl who was now standing in the middle of the road, still waving, showing how anxious she was that he should stop.

Travis had been driving through the State of Wyoming for a couple of hours and could understand why it was designated as the emptiest State in America. He’d seen little in the way of passing traffic, so seeing the girl was a surprise.

He slowed to a stop as he reached her. She’d already started running towards him, still waving her arms. He put the window down as she literally fell on the car. She looked worried and sounded a little breathless.

Thanks for stopping. Can you help me, please? My truck has broken down and I have to get to Mason Falls. I’ll pay for your gas. She pointed up the road into the distance. It isn’t far —

She was gabbling. Travis put his hand up and stopped her. Hang on. Calm down. He waited a moment until he had her attention. Couldn’t you get a tow truck?

She shook her head. No signal. Please, I have to get home; my folks are expecting me. They’ll be worried.

How far is it?

Ten miles, maybe fifteen. There’s a turn off a couple of miles ahead. Please.

He puffed his cheeks out. Okay, fine. Grab your things.

She was saying thank you as she turned and ran back towards her truck. Travis moved the car forward. He saw her open the cab door, reach inside and pull out a small holdall. He watched as she ran back to him, pulled open the passenger door, tossed her bag on to the back seat and clambered in beside him. She snapped the seat belt on, leaned back in the seat and breathed out in a long, thankful breath. 

Thank you, she said.

Travis smiled. Mason Falls it is then.

He looked ahead. The sun was dropping towards the horizon and would soon disappear behind the hills in the distance. The road was straight but dipped out of sight in places. He thought about his planned destination at Yellowstone Park and wondered if there would be enough time to make it before nightfall. But he was philosophical about it; he wasn’t really in a hurry.

Neither of them spoke for a short while. Travis was processing what had just happened, while the girl seemed to collect her thoughts. Eventually, she turned her head and looked at him.

Thank you so much, I’m really grateful.

Travis wondered if she was going to keep on thanking him. He did think she sounded a little desperate. Anxious, maybe? He thought it might help if he got her to talk.

What’s at Mason Falls then? You live there?

I used to, but I live in Denver now.

What, going home for a quick break?

She shook her head. No, I ... She looked down at her hands, which were flat on her lap. There was an accident, a fire some weeks ago. She took a deep breath, blowing her cheeks out. My sister was killed and.... She brushed her eyes hurriedly. I have to be with my mother and father. They need me. She sniffed and ran the back of her hand over her nose. I’m sorry.

Travis glanced at her. Don’t be, he said.

He looked back up the road, still empty and still running away into the distance. He decided not to say anything else; if the girl wanted to talk, it would be up to her.

There’s a turn to the right just up ahead, she said suddenly. You’ll see the sign on the right.

They continued in a kind of awkward silence. Travis felt it best to leave her to her own thoughts and guessed she was thinking much the same about him. Or maybe she was the kind of person who felt a little uncomfortable in the presence of strangers. 

The sign appeared, a nod to some part of Wyoming history that few people would have known. He turned the car on to the faded blacktop road, looking very much in need of a dose of tender loving care, and wondered exactly what Mason Falls was going to look like.

It wasn’t long before a road sign declared they were entering the town. It nestled at the foot of a range of snow-capped hills that climbed away into the distance. He had glimpsed a river earlier on, and judging from the line of trees, it flowed close to the town itself.

The first sign of life was a post office. A Tahoe pickup truck was parked on the street out front. Two women were standing beside the truck talking. They glanced over at Travis’ car and kept watching as he drove by. It didn’t take long to drive through the town. Travis thought the place looked as though it had given up on life and remained fixed in time. He saw a diner, a garage, a couple of bars, a police station and what looked like a courthouse, but little else.

You want me to drop you off at your parents’ house?

If you wouldn’t mind. It’s on the other side of the town, up in the Reservation.

He glanced at her. Reservation?

Indian Reservation.

That was when Travis realised her features revealed her ancestry: North American Indian. He wanted to ask more but felt it would be impolite. And considering she would soon be just a memory, he thought it better not to enquire. 

Once they were through the town, it was a couple of miles up the road to the Reservation. The girl pointed him to her parents’ house. Travis pulled up and stopped.

There you are, he said. Glad to have been of service.

Well, you can’t go without me paying for your gas. And I would like you to at least let my parents thank you for helping me.

Travis thought about it for a moment. He’d seen a motel in the town, which meant he could stop overnight if they delayed him much longer. Yes, okay, I would like that.

She went to get out of the car and stopped. Oh, my name’s Elina, by the way.

He smiled and held his hand out. Travis.

Elina shook his hand, lifted her bag over from the back seat and got out of the car. As she stepped up on to the porch of the house, she turned and signalled for him to follow her. 

Travis got out of the car. He guessed there would be the introductions, the thanks, perhaps a coffee, and then he would be on his way, leaving Elina and her family to cope with the trauma of losing a loved one and overcoming their grief. He would soon be on his way again and master of his own destiny.

He thought.

Chapter 2

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Elina opened the front door of the house, stepped into a large hallway, and beckoned Travis to follow. She immediately called out.

Ma, Pa! It’s Elina.

Travis heard a sudden exclamation and the sound of footsteps. The door facing them flew open as Elina’s mother came running through. The two women immediately embraced, hugging each other tightly. Eventually, Elina disentangled herself and introduced Travis.

He gave me a lift. My truck broke down on the highway. I couldn’t call you; no signal. Thought I’d be stuck out there for ever. She turned. Travis, this is my mother, Alawa Crow.

Travis stepped forward and offered his hand. Alawa was dressed in what Travis assumed to be a traditional Indian costume. Her dark hair was held in place with a slim, decorative headband. She was wearing a straight dress that had tassels hanging from it, and a belt around her waist. She was wearing moccasins. She shook his hand.

Hello, Travis. Thanks for helping Elina. There was a pause, then she pointed at her dress. Take no notice of this; I’m usually wearing jeans and a shirt. I’m going out tonight. She turned round and beckoned him to follow.

Come on through.

He followed her into a large lounge. The décor was ostensibly native Indian with wall hangings, mementoes and tokens reflecting the Indian culture. On the floor was an enormous rug. It was decorated with Indian symbols and dominated the room.

Elina looked at her mother. Where’s Pa?

Alawa pointed towards another door. He’s in his workshop.

Elina said she would be back and went in search of her father. Alawa asked Travis if he would like a coffee. He said he would. I’ll bring it through. Please, have a seat. Elina won’t be too long. She pointed to a settee and left him there.

Before he sat down, Travis looked around the room. The show of Indian culture was everywhere, but there was also a piano, a large television set, a music centre and family photos on top of a large sideboard. Travis walked over to those and studied the cheerful faces and poses. His eye fell on one of two young women. One was obviously Elina. He assumed the other was the younger sister who died in the house fire.

Suddenly, the door opened and Elina came in with her father. Travis, this is my Pa. He’s called Hawk.

Travis pivoted as Elina was talking. Hawk was about as tall as Travis. He wasn’t dressed in an Indian costume like Alawa was, but there was no mistaking his heritage. He had stature and size, and features that seemed to be carved from history. Travis guessed he would have been a formidable opponent in a physical contest. He shook Hawk’s hand.

Elina has told me what you did for her. Please accept my thanks and gratitude.

Travis shrugged. It was the least I could do.

Hawk pointed at the settee. Please, sit down.

Travis dropped into the soft leather upholstery. Elina sat beside him while Hawk took an armchair that was positioned alongside the large open fireplace.

Elina tells me you’re on holiday.

I’m touring, sir. Self-drive, he added.

On your own?

Elina said something in a language Travis didn’t understand, but it sounded as if she was telling her father off. Hawk looked at Travis and grinned.

My daughter always scolds me in our native Arapaho tongue. She says I shouldn’t be nosey.

Travis laughed. I don’t mind you being nosey. Yes, I’m touring on my own, I’m single, unattached, and have a small business back home in Atlanta.

Why did you choose Wyoming?

I wanted to start at Yellowstone National Park, Travis explained.

Just then, the door opened and Alawa came in with a tray. There were four cups on the tray, along with sugar, cream, and a few biscuits. She put the tray down and handed Travis his coffee.

Help yourself to sugar and cream, she told him, and sat down in a chair beside Hawk.

So, what kind of business are you in? Hawk asked Travis.

I run a small, exclusive security agency.

What do you mean by exclusive?

Travis wondered how he could explain just what kind of agency he ran, and in such a way that Hawk would understand, After all, Hawk, like a lot of people, might have got used to the dramatic presentations on film and television of tough, hard boiled security men, earpieces constantly in place and wearing Ray-ban sunglasses like the President’s personal bodyguard.

When someone needs to be protected from the public, the paparazzi, physical harm, they employ agencies like mine.

You mean famous people?

Travis shook his head. Not necessarily. In fact, we don’t take on that kind of work. Ours is often with people who are possibly not well known to the public. And we’re expensive.

Hawk nodded, satisfied with the small crumb of information Travis was offering. So, what are your immediate plans?

Travis made a gesture with his hand. Well, once I’ve finished my coffee, I guess I’ll be heading off to Yellowstone.

Alawa sat up straight. Yellowstone? This late? You won’t get there until dark. Do you have a room booked?

Travis shook his head. No, erm, I hadn’t planned for this detour.

Elina reached over and grabbed his arm. That means you’ll have to stay in Mason Falls for the night, and I can take you out for a meal — pay you back for your kindness.

Travis gave it a moment’s thought and nodded slowly. Sounds like a good idea. I can book a room at the motel.

I could offer you a room... Alawa started to say, but Travis immediately stopped her.

No, no, no; I wouldn’t dream of letting you do that. This is all very nice, but I’ll be on my way in the morning and it won’t be long before you’ve forgotten me.

Alawa accepted that and looked over at Elina. Where will you eat? Wind River?

Elina shook her head. No, too far. We’ll eat at Jolene’s Grill.

Alawa’s expression changed. Please be careful, Elina.

Hawk leaned across and touched Alawa on the arm. Don’t worry, Alawa. Elina will be with a guy who protects people for a living. They’ll be fine. I’m sure.

Alawa didn’t look too convinced but accepted it reluctantly.

After that, the conversation moved from one topic to another but never touched on the tragedy that had brought Elina hurrying home. Travis wondered about that but it was nothing to do with him, so he ignored it. After all, tomorrow he would be away from Mason Falls and heading for Yellowstone National Park.

At least, that was the plan.

Chapter 3

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Once they were in Mason Falls, Elina directed Travis to the motel where he booked a room for the night. Then on their way to Jolene’s grill, she asked him to stop by the garage so she could arrange for them to pick up her truck. Finally they arrived at the grill. There was nothing glitzy about the place, just a neon sign and a few lights. There were half curtains along the length of the windows, which allowed a partial view of the diner, but offered some privacy to the diners. Travis parked in a small, convenient parking lot and together they walked over to the diner.

Elina got to the door first and opened it. Travis followed her in. The counter on the right ran practically the whole length of the room. On the left were the booths by the windows overlooking the main street. There were swivel chairs facing the counter, covered in the same red leatherette cloth as the booths. They could hear someone singing, sounding like it was coming from the kitchen. The voice got louder as the singer burst through the double swing doors but stopped the moment she saw Travis and Elina standing there.

Hey. She was carrying a tray of cups. You want to get a seat? I’ll be with you in a moment.

They slid into a booth at the far end and looked back at the woman as she put the tray on a shelf. She grabbed a towel and dried her hands, then picked up a pad and came over to the booth. She was dressed in a black sweatshirt, tight cord trousers, ankle boots and a studded leather belt around her slim waist. Her hair was grey and swept back into a ponytail that finished between her shoulder blades. She had silver jewellery all over: pendant earrings, necklace, bracelets, a large ring, all matching. The whole effect was eye-catching and mesmerising.

She lifted the pad and then paused, her face registering shock.

Elina?

Hi, Jolene. Yes, I’m back.

She lowered her arms, the notepad and pen not needed for a while. I was really sorry to hear about Kayla. Broke my heart.

Elina nodded. Thanks, Jolene. Still can’t believe it.

You in town for long.?

Elina shrugged. I’m not sure. There are some questions I gotta ask; get some answers.

Jolene raised her eyebrows. Difficult. You have to be careful now. Lot of folks have been saying things, accusations. The town is real stirred up. She looked at Travis.

Elina saw the question in her eyes. Oh, this is Travis. I picked him up on the way here.

Travis laughed. Other way round, actually.

Jolene frowned at Elina. Really.

Elina explained what had happened. And he’ll be on his way in the morning.

Jolene chuckled. I’m missing you already, she said to Travis. Now, you want coffee, cold drink?

I’ll have a burger and fries, and coffee, Travis told her.

Same for me, Jolene.

Jolene scribbled their order on her pad and as she finished she looked up and out of through window. Her expression changed. Oh. Her eyes hooded over for a moment, and she took a short breath, shaking her head. I’ll get your order. And the pleasantness was gone as she hurried away.

Elina swivelled in her chair and looked through the curtain. When she turned back, Travis could see a change in her countenance: she looked disturbed.

He looked through the window. A black Chevvy SUV had stopped out front and four men were clambering out. They were obviously in high spirits. Travis knew immediately that their appearance was the reason the woman had changed from a pleasant, talkative waitress into something else that hinted on a darker side.

He thought about Jolene’s remark on how the town was stirred up and wondered if that was why Elina looked a little concerned.

The men ambled into the diner, their voices and laughter breaking the peace and calm of the interior. They piled into a booth, just glancing quickly at Travis and Elina. Then one of them walked over. He stopped at the end of the booth and stared at Elina. He said nothing, just stared.

Travis knew instantly there was history between them, and it wasn’t pleasant. Elina kept looking ahead, refusing to acknowledge the man’s thunderous look.

Well, look what we have here, he said slowly. You come home big sister because your little sister upped and died? You going to make trouble?

Travis could feel his hackles rising. He wanted to punch the guy, but the last thing he needed was to pick a fight when there were three other guys there.

He watched Elina’s face. Her expression darkened and he could see she was angry.

Fuck off, Zac, or so help me...

Or what? He lifted his hand and spat into it. Then he wiped his hand down the side of his leg. It was symbolic and threatening. He walked away without saying a word.

Travis could tell the