Threats of Death: The Reluctant Detective, #3

By T M Goble

In the riveting third instalment of the Detective Sergeant Josh Anderson series, "Threats of Death," Josh finds himself deeply smitten with his charming yet scatty girlfriend. However, his romantic bliss is shattered when he stumbles upon a mysterious incident that sends ripples of fear through their close-knit circle of friends.

Josh's newfound love has introduced him to her best friend, whose life takes a chilling turn after a threatening and unexplained incident. Although Josh's initial investigation yields no signs of criminal activity, he can't ignore the palpable fear etched on his girlfriend's friend's face.

Driven by a desire to protect those he cares about, Josh begins asking questions to unravel the enigma surrounding the incident. However, the answers he receives are superficial, leaving him with a nagging sense that secrets are being carefully guarded.

As more questionable events unfold, Josh's determination intensifies. He can't shake the image of his girlfriend's terrified friend, and signs of duplicity within their tight-knit group become increasingly apparent. With each passing day, he becomes more convinced that these events are leading to something far more sinister—a serious crime waiting to be uncovered.

In "Threats of Death," Detective Sergeant Josh Anderson's inquisitive nature and unyielding determination lead him down a treacherous path of deception, danger, and dark secrets. As he digs deeper, he must confront the chilling possibility that the threats he uncovers may be just the tip of the iceberg.

Join Josh as he races against time to unearth the truth, piecing together the puzzle of a mystery that threatens to engulf not only his personal life but also the lives of those he holds dear. "Threats of Death" is a heart-pounding thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat, as Detective Sergeant Josh Anderson uncovers a web of deceit that could lead to a crime far more serious than anyone could have imagined.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Terence Goble
• Release date: Feb 18, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224134045

Book preview

01

A mix of breathlessness and impatience coursed through me as I checked my appearance in the mirror while the hubbub of chatter and laughter wafted over me. Aleksi has finally invited me out to dinner. A wide grin was fixed across my face and I hummed to myself. Goodness knows I’ve dropped enough hints in the past few months. But it’s happened and I’ve butterflies in my stomach. It’s filled my mind ever since he suggested it. The anticipation of an evening spent in the company of such a handsome and talented man made we want to dance and sing. Will it turn out to be the first evening of many? No, I must stop daydreaming as he will be waiting. One last final check as I applied my favourite lipstick. The deep scarlet accentuated the lines of my lips and was in sharp contrast to the black dress. I adjusted the neckline; it was low cut, but I was sure he wouldn’t mind. Giggling to myself I left the dressing room and opted for the shortcut, to avoid the crowd still milling around after the performance. It would be the quickest route to the Concert Hall foyer where he waited for me.

The narrow stairs were shadowy, but it’s the quickest route. The single bulb in the stairwell gives little light and forms strange sinister silhouettes on the walls. Grabbing the handrail, my high-heeled shoes clattered on the steep wooden steps. As I descended the noise of the crowd leaving the theatre drifted into the distance. The tidying of the auditorium after the performance produced thudding footsteps above my head as the shortcut took me under the stage. It was spooky and difficult to gain a clear footing on the uneven surface. Peering along the dismal corridor, I edged my way through the piles of old furniture.

Why do the theatre owners keep junk from the stage productions in corridors? Sidling, I picked the best route to avoid the ancient paraphernalia and scenery props that jutted out. The musty smell was disgusting and I wrinkled my nose as the nauseating stench pervaded my nostrils. As I progressed along the corridor my eyes became accustomed to the dim light. Placing my hand against the wall I steadied myself as the stone floor was pitted and uneven. Tripping could be a disaster.

Will Aleksi be patient? In my attempt to be quick I have not changed so I’m still wearing my black dress from the performance. The calf length chiffon with sequins and a plunging neckline is my favourite. Men notice me when I wear it, so perhaps that tempted Aleksi tonight. His offer of dinner just before the performance was due to start, surprised and excited me. Why the sudden interest as I have known him for a long time?

The thin delicate material flapping in the draught was not appropriate clothing for chilly corridors and I must take care not to catch it on the jagged wood. The light from the main stairs will be welcome after the eerie shadows.

Focusing on the end of the corridor, the pitted surface caused me to stumble, but clutching a broken chair kept me balanced. The top of the pile wobbled. I snatched my hand away. The furniture is unsafe. The scenery flats could have landed on me and I shivered at the potential accident.

‘What’s that!’ Squinting towards the end of the corridor, I held my breath. Water gurgled in a nearby pipe. A silent breath forced itself from my tight lips as I willed my body to relax. Why am I so jittery? Not far to go. Movement at the end of the corridor caught my eye. A person’s outline, but no sound. There’s a glint of light. I relaxed my shoulders to calm my jangling nerves and concentrated on trying to recognise the person.

‘My God!’ I froze. My hand flew to my mouth which opened in a silent scream. There’s a gun and it’s pointed at me. It’s going to fire and I will die. Bang! The blast echoed through the confined space. My head spun and blackness engulfed me.

02

Where am I? My hands clutched the crisp material as my head throbbed. The powerful disinfectant hit my nostrils. A rattling sound reminiscent of crockery being jiggled around made no sense to me. With an immense struggle, I forced my eyes to open. ‘I’m alive.’ The whispered words escaped my dry lips. Brightness surrounded me, causing me to squint. What’s happened to me? It’s an effort to keep my eyes open and I battled to control the heaviness in my eyelids.

A voice cut through my scrambled thoughts. ‘Yes, you’re alive, my dear.’ A chuckle followed.

‘Where am I?’ My voice sounds strange, so I inhaled deeply. Nothing hurts, that’s a surprise.

‘Blackford Hospital, as you’ve had a bang on the head.’ Forcing my eyes open again, I attempted to focus on my surroundings. The faded floral curtains had been half pulled around my bed. I couldn’t see other beds, but I could hear murmurings of conversation. A multitude of questions flew at lightning speed through my mind. What happened to me? How did I get here? I can’t remember.

A nurse with a round plain face and short blonde hair peered into my eyes. Resting a hand on my wrist, she checked the watch attached to her apron. I took slow breaths to calm myself. Why was I in the hospital?

As I recalled the previous evening, a wave of panic rushed through me. The dark corridor under the stage. The sensation of apprehension. With a jolt, the image of the gun glinting in the poor light and pointing in my direction filled my mind. Then the bang, followed by darkness. Someone had shot at me. The recollections made me tremble, my breath stalled and a ball of anxiety formed in my stomach.

Fearing the worse, but needing to know, I whispered, ‘Where did the bullet hit me?’

The nurse blinked with a mixture of bewilderment and amusement and then she laughed. I guessed in her fifties, but her rounded features added a few extra years. Her reaction confused me. Why laugh? Being shot is a serious matter.

Straightening the bedclothes, she plumped up my pillow, but the expression of amusement hadn’t left her face. A generation older than me, she had a cheerful disposition. ‘You’ve had a bad nightmare.’ Patting my hand in a placatory manner she gave a reassuring smile. ‘You are okay and haven’t been shot.’

What! With a groan I jolted to a sitting position, but my head spun so I flopped back onto the soft comforting pillows. The scene in the corridor remained vivid. The gun had fired, I’d heard it. The loud bang. Then I remember nothing. Trembling, a shudder shook my entire body. The nurse grasped my clammy hand and squeezed it reassuringly.

‘Calm down. You hit your head which gave you concussion so an ambulance brought you to the hospital. Let’s make you comfortable and then it won’t be long before the tea trolley arrives.’ She propped me up against a bank of pillows, then pulled the curtains partially back as bright sunlight streamed into the far end of the ward. ‘I don’t remember what happened, apart from the gun.’ Forcing a smile, I tried to conceal the terror which weakened me. I didn’t dare to close my eyes as the vivid images would reappear.

The nurse fussed with the perfectly positioned sheets on my bed. ‘After a knock on the head the memory can play funny tricks. Last night you were groggy, but conscious. The doctor checked you out and gave you a sedative to allow you to sleep and since then you have been under observation.’

I took more notice of my surroundings to discover I was connected to a selection of monitoring machines which bleeped and blinked. Several cables and tubes led to equipment behind me. ‘What are these for?’ I pointed towards the various tubes. My voice had tensed.

‘They have been monitoring while you have been asleep. While your head wound is minor, you were disorientated on arrival at the hospital. The doctor wanted you to relax and rest. The machines have monitored you, but they are nothing to worry about.’

‘What about the readings?’ I shivered despite the warmth of the ward. My stomach had rolled itself into a knot, while my mind whirled at what had happened to me. Had she told me the truth about my condition?

‘I will disconnect you from them as you’re fine. I can tell because of your chatter.’

The image of the gun filled my mind, and it wouldn’t go away. Though I’m safe and unhurt my heart is pounding. Someone shot at me last night. My hands trembled and sweat drenched my skin. Who wants to kill me? Fear pushed all other thoughts aside.

The rattle from the bedside cupboard dragged me back to reality, as the nurse handed me my bag, ‘Look at yourself in a mirror. You’ve slept well and look good. You’re an attractive woman.’

Fumbling, I searched in the bottom of my bag for my compact. My limbs were weak and my head fuzzy. The trauma from my ordeal must be evident. Opening the lid of the compact, I peered at my face in the mirror. Apart from a plaster on my hairline, it appeared normal. A little pale but that was all. As the nurse turned away, I moved my arms and legs. While they were stiff, I had no pain. Apart from the slightest of headaches, I appeared unharmed. The bullet must have missed me. A shiver coursed through me. Would the person try again?

‘We’ve given you medication for your headache so it shouldn’t be too bad.’

I forced my lips upwards into a small smile, ‘It’s hardly noticeable.’ Finding the brush in my bag, I gently tidied my long hair away from my face. My antique silver hair clip had been placed in my bag so I took it out, stared at it and smoothed my fingers over the floral design. The multi-faceted crystals twinkled in the light. I clipped it to hold back a long strand. The nurse watched me. ‘That’s a glamourous clip, it suits you.’

Giving her a timid smile, I snapped my compact shut and relaxed back onto the pillows. Brushing my hair had helped me to unwind but closing my eyes didn’t seem like a good idea. ‘The doctor will be here shortly.’ The nurse bustled around, returned my bag to the bedside locker and poured me a glass of water. ‘I’m sure he will discharge you. Then it’s home and rest.’

The loud noise of the gun had been my last memory of yesterday evening. Fully awake, I had no confusion about what had happened. I hadn’t dreamt it. It had taken place. But why? The nurse removed the tubes and popped on a new plaster. Pulling back the surrounding curtains revealed the remainder of the ward with several empty beds. I settled and forced myself to take large calming breaths and to appreciate that I hadn’t been badly hurt. The nurse took a small torch from her pocket and peered into my eyes. The bright light made me blink. ‘Your pupils are reacting normally, which is excellent news. Do you remember coming to the hospital last night?’

‘No. Should I?’ I had no recollection of events after the gun fired until I’d woken this morning. No matter how much I tried, I couldn’t recall any details of what had happened.

‘A blow on the head can give temporary amnesia, but you’re bright and alert this morning. What’s your name, love?’

‘Vanessa Harrington. I remember the concert ending last night. Then the applause as we took our bows. As usual after a performance I put my violin away and tidied the music sheets.’ The nurse listened as she busied herself with the equipment. ‘After that, I headed for the dressing room, and then took the shortcut to the foyer.’

With reluctance I ended my account as no one would believe a gun pointed at me. But it had happened.

03

Slumping on to my pillows, the gun had been real, although I’d only spotted a shadowy figure in the dark. Who could that have been? If the furniture had toppled, why hadn’t they come to my assistance. But perhaps they called the Emergency Services. Dozing, as I waited for the doctor, my senses became aroused at a sound I recognised. Chattering away to a nurse, I spotted the bright clothes advancing along the corridor. Kate, my friend from work, had come to visit. As she saw me, she strode towards my bed with her high heels clicking loudly on the plastic tiles of the ward.

‘Darling, Vanessa,’ Her voice was shrill and sliced through the throbbing ache in my head. ‘I’ve been so worried about you.’ She smothered me in a hug with her long blonde curls covering my face. Having released me she glanced around at the ward, ‘Sorry for the noise,’ she called to no one in particular, ‘but I’m so pleased to see my friend and she’s as beautiful as always.’ Grinning, she gave her trademark giggle.

Kate always impressed people. Even if they considered her noisy, the bubbly personality won people over and her giggle became infectious. A youthful appearance helped her to use the dizzy blonde image to good effect. When we were out together, men approached her first, not that I minded. When anyone penetrated the dippy image, they found a thoughtful person. She had a genuine expression of concern as she held my hand and studied me from the bedside chair.

‘A lump of wood hit me on the head.’ Tentatively, I touched the plaster which covered the wound. With a small smile of reassurance, I attempted to dismiss the incident. I might fool Kate, but I couldn’t fool myself.

‘You seem pale, but your eyes are alert.’

‘The doctor will discharge me this morning.’

‘I didn’t go to the concert as I dislike classical music.’ She jiggled in her seat to reinforce the words. Kate, never one to mince her sentiments gave my hand an encouraging squeeze. ‘Aleksi rang me and explained that an ambulance had taken you to hospital because of the head wound and they were keeping you in overnight for observation.’

I recalled my excitement about dinner with Aleksi. I’d anticipated a glorious evening, but it had not happened. Lifting my head a fraction from the pillows I focused on Kate’s face, ‘Aleksi planned to take me out to dinner.’

‘Wow! I bet you were excited as you fancy him and go gooey-eyed when he’s around.’

‘Oh, don’t exaggerate Kate,’ I smirked in amusement, it’s wonderful to see you. Thanks for coming and you’re right I was excited but fate intervened.’ I flopped back onto the pillows with a disappointed sigh.

‘Did a pile of furniture fall on you?’

‘Yes, but I didn’t realise what had caused the accident as it knocked me unconscious.’

‘Why did it suddenly collapse?’ Kate’s question jolted me back to the present. I considered the implication and shuddered.

The same question, but imprecise in its expression, had been flowing through my mind. The furniture had been there since I had begun to visit the concert hall a year ago.

Kate could show unusual powers of perception despite the dippy image. A chill crept through me as my mind flicked back to the darkness of the corridor. Unable to control my response to the memories, fear swept through me as my eyes welled with emotion.

‘Is it more than the cut forehead?’ Kate clutched my hand, giving it a small squeeze. ‘What’s the matter?’ Her gentle voice broke through the turmoil in my mind.

With my head resting against the soft pillow, I sniffed. ‘No one will believe me.’

Kate searched in her bag and handed me a tissue, ‘What won’t they believe. You’d better explain, that’s what friends are for. Something about the incident is troubling you.’

Hesitating, I mopped up my tears. Her eyes widened with curiosity and with her head tilted to one side, she stared at me.

‘In the corridor, before the furniture collapsed, someone pointed a gun at me.’ Holding my breath, I waited for her reaction. Her hand flew to her mouth as the words hung between us. Tears filled my eyes, but I brushed them away and waited for Kate to speak. Did she believe me? Would she laugh at me?

Kate didn’t respond immediately and then her face lit up, ‘I’ve a new boyfriend.’

The reaction surprised me. Why had she changed the subject? ‘Why have you told me?’

‘He’s waiting outside.’

‘So?’ My voice sounded belligerent. Taking a deep breath, I released it slowly to control my agitation.

‘He’s a policeman.’ The dreamy expression made her cheeks glow.

Thoughts about the gun swirled through me. The nurse had assured me it was a dream, but it seemed real to me. The police would never believe me, but I would feel more settled if I could tell someone who wouldn’t dismiss it easily. But no one came to mind. My body jolted with anticipation and I gave a lopsided grin. I then reached across to grab her hand, ‘Do you think he would talk to me, Kate?’

‘Yes, he’s a real darling. I’ve never met a man like him before. He’s scruffy but good looking and chilled.’ Her voice bubbled with enthusiasm.

‘Why haven’t you mentioned him.’

‘We’ve only dated three times, but he’s great fun. Anyway, we haven’t chatted recently because you’ve been practising your music or playing in a concert.’

I wanted Kate to fetch her boyfriend, so I didn’t elaborate on my ploy about becoming closer to Aleksi by attending extra practices. Picking up the hint, she kissed me on the cheek and disappeared towards the exit. As I waited to calm my nervousness, I considered my best approach to a policeman.

04

Josh sat in his car listening to Radio Four and watching an old lady driver trying to reverse into a space in the hospital car park. Flicking open the door, he jumped out and guided her into the gap. She waved her thanks as she hobbled to the main building and disappeared inside. Josh resumed his seat in the car and settled once again to the enjoyment of the Beethoven Concerto. Despite the inspiring music his mind flicked to Claire. Her return to work after her illness was imminent. Would they manage to develop a sustained working relationship? Two adult Detective Sergeants should be able to push their differences aside and work together. So far it had not happened.

Pushing the thoughts aside he rested his head back and revelled in the luxury of a day off. Listening to music surpassed being at work with the bonus of spending the afternoon in Kate’s bubbling company. A satisfied smile spread across his face. The trees in the distance swayed in the breeze of the overcast morning as though keeping time to the waves of music from the concerto. The purr of engines as they moved around the car park could only just be heard above the sound of the music although the sirens from the arriving ambulances were more piercing.

He and Kate had only dated a few times. Last week he had built up to telling her he was a police officer and had been relieved when it didn’t change her attitude towards him. He longed for a settled relationship that would not be wrecked by the vagaries of his job and his poor timekeeping. It had been a big wrench when Gemma had left Blackford for her secondment at Scotland Yard. By mutual consent they had agreed a long distance relationship was not viable. The pressures of their jobs with unpredictable hours made it impossible. It hadn’t made the break any easier and the first few weeks without her smiling face had been difficult. Having a girlfriend made all the difference. It was someone to share the ups and downs of everyday life, and to have fun together.

Kate, wearing a bright patterned anorak, strolled towards his car bringing a grin to his face. She tottered in her high heels on the rough tarmac then waved with enthusiasm. Opening the passenger door, she dropped into the seat, flicking her blonde curls away from her face. Her skirt slipped up her thighs as she scrabbled across to kiss him. Soft lips brushed his cheek. She pulled away and readjusted her skirt. ‘I’m so sorry, Josh, but I’ve spoilt our day out.’

‘Your friend needs you as her accident has upset you.’

‘You’re a gorgeous man for being so understanding.’ Leaning across, she kissed him gently on the lips. ‘I need to ask a favour.’

Josh didn’t mind, he enjoyed her company and as they had a full staff quota at the police station, he wouldn’t be called in on his day off. ‘How’s your friend? What’s the favour?’

‘Vanessa seems okay as she’s sitting up in bed. Although pale she appears her normal self and expects to go home today.’

‘The injury can’t be that bad, but you still seem worried.’

Kate wrung her hands together, ‘She thinks someone tried to shoot her.’

Josh frowned and a quizzical expression slid across his face, ‘You told me some furniture toppled over and hit her on the head.’

‘That’s what Aleksi related, but Vanessa believes someone pointed a gun at her before she lost consciousness.’

‘Do you want me to speak with her?’

‘Josh, that would be wonderful.’ Squeezing his arm, she kissed his cheek.

As Kate grabbed the door handle to leave the car, Josh caught her hand, ‘Let me ask you some questions before we visit her.’ Shuffling back in her seat, she gazed at him with interest. ‘Tell me what your friend is like?’

‘Quiet and serious, so it’s surprising that we’re friends but we often go out together in the evening.’

‘Has she worried about people trying to hurt her before?’ He pressed his lips together. ‘Think carefully, Kate.’

‘No, she’s level headed.’

‘Okay, let’s meet her.’

‘You’re a star, Josh.’

As he strode towards the hospital, his mind raced as he never liked references to guns, either real or imitation.

05

With my eyes closed and my head resting back I attempted to relax. Although they had given me some painkillers my head throbbed. Kate’s giggling alerted me before she reappeared. Despite being worried about last night,