Race Against Time: Masked Enemy, #1

By Mubita Joseph Mubita

In the heart-pounding depths of a chilling murder case, a seasoned detective finds himself thrust into a treacherous web of intrigue. Assigned to unravel the enigmatic death of a renowned engineer, he unwittingly steps into a labyrinth where every step forward unravels another layer of mystery.

But fate, in its cruel twist, reveals that the hunter has become the hunted. As the shadows of danger close in, he must summon every ounce of his wit, intuition, and courage to navigate a treacherous path fraught with peril. Time slips through his fingers like sand in an hourglass, and the relentless ticking of the clock is a constant reminder of the stakes at hand.

The pulse-quickening race against time takes an unexpected turn when he discovers a cryptic clue that holds the key to salvation. Three lives hang in the balance, their fragile existence tethered to the discovery of a gemstone so precious and elusive, it is whispered only in hushed tones among the most secretive circles.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Fictitious Collections
• Release date: Feb 28, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224750917

Mubita Joseph Mubita

Meet Mubita Joseph Mubita, an open-minded wordsmith with a passion for reading and writing. From the days of grade school, a longing to create stories has blossomed into a collection of tales that have found their home on various platforms. With each word, Mubita Joseph Mubita weaves worlds that captivate and inspire, inviting readers into realms shaped by creativity and a love for storytelling. Join the journey through imagination as Mubita Joseph Mubita continues to explore the boundless possibilities of the written word.

Book preview

Blurb

In the heart-pounding depths of a chilling murder case, a seasoned detective finds himself thrust into a treacherous web of intrigue. Assigned to unravel the enigmatic death of a renowned engineer, he unwittingly steps into a labyrinth where every step forward unravels another layer of mystery.

But fate, in its cruel twist, reveals that the hunter has become the hunted. As the shadows of danger close in, he must summon every ounce of his wit, intuition, and courage to navigate a treacherous path fraught with peril. Time slips through his fingers like sand in an hourglass, and the relentless ticking of the clock is a constant reminder of the stakes at hand.

The pulse-quickening race against time takes an unexpected turn when he discovers a cryptic clue that holds the key to salvation. Three lives hang in the balance, their fragile existence tethered to the discovery of a gemstone so precious and elusive, it is whispered only in hushed tones among the most secretive circles.

With each tantalizing lead and heart-stopping twist, the detective's journey becomes an obsession, a relentless pursuit of truth and redemption. Along the way, he confronts shadowy figures from a hidden underworld, unearths long-buried secrets, and delves deeper into the darkness where the lines between friend and foe blur beyond recognition.

In this enthralling tale of danger and deceit, the detective's quest for justice becomes a battle for his own survival. As the nightmarish pieces of the puzzle fall into place, he must confront his own demons and outsmart a cunning adversary who lurks in the shadows, always one step ahead.

In a race against both time and destiny, the detective must embrace the unknown, forging a path through the maze of deception and danger. Lives hang in the balance, and the weight of the world rests on his shoulders. Will he uncover the secret of the enigmatic gemstone and save those who depend on him, or will he be consumed by the relentless darkness that surrounds him?

Chapter 1: Cold Blood

Distant conversations reverberated in Jessica's mind before a lengthy session of tedious footsteps. She opened her eyes halfway, only to see blurry images of two gas-masked men dressed in black scurrying from one corner to the other.

Jessica took a deep breath and felt the noxious air filling her lungs. Her eyes were irritated by the gas in the air, causing them to swell and water.

One of the men looked at Jessica and announced, Sir, she's awake.

Well, don't just stand there, knock her out! commanded his companion.

He complied with the command, pulled out a firearm from his belt, and struck Jessica with the butt of the gun. She let out a deep sigh before collapsing to the ground, producing an audible thud.

Jessica felt a gentle warmth on her hand followed by a persistent, cautious shake and indistinct muttering.

Madam... Ma'am, called out Mia, the housemaid.

Jessica rose from her prone position on the bed, her heart pounding fiercely, audible in her chest. She took deep breaths, attempting to regain control of her pulse, but the throbbing in her head was unbearable, and the veins bulged on her forehead.

Calm down, ma'am, Mia soothed in a soothing voice, placing her hand on Jessica's chest.

What happened? Jessica asked.

Before Mia could respond, Jessica interrupted, My daughter... My husband... Where are they?

Ivy is in her bedroom, being looked after by Roderick, Mia replied.

Impatiently, Jessica interrupted, What about my husband?

Mia's sudden expression of concern alarmed Jessica. Speak up, woman! Where is my husband?

Mia murmured, Before the gas knocked us out, Mr Tillman was in his office. After we came to our senses, Roderick went to check on him while I hurried to Ivy. Then-

Then what? Jessica interrupted.

Roderick came back with terrible news... Mia continued. Mr Tillman was shot dead in his office.

Jessica's eyes widened and she gripped the sheets tightly. Her heart sank into her stomach. For a moment, she was in disbelief, but as Mia went on to explain the earlier horror and Mr Tillman’s current fate, Jessica lost control and screamed like a madwoman.

Mia tried to calm Jessica, but her efforts were in vain. Jessica leaped out of bed and darted past Mia, racing out of the bedroom while Mia chased after her, calling out her name.

Jessica burst into the office and was greeted by the gruesome sight of her husband lying in a pool of blood, chest on the floor. Her heart skipped a beat at the sight before her.

Her tears dried up almost immediately, and a surge of adrenaline coursed through her veins. However, she felt weak and struggled to support her weight.

She was about to jump into the pool of blood but was stopped by a cold grip on her left wrist. She glanced over her shoulder, making eye contact with Roderick, the chef.

No, ma'am, Roderick advised. I suggest you stay outside. You may contaminate the crime scene.

I'll make sure to contaminate you if you don't take your filthy hand off me! Jessica snapped, her eyes glowing red and swollen.

Soon, Mia caught up with Jessica and Roderick in the hallway. Ma'am, please try to listen, Mia said. We've already notified the police about the incident and can confirm that they're on their way here right n-

To hell with the police! I want to see my husband! Unhand me, you fool! Jessica yelled, but Roderick tightened his grip.

Jessica attempted to break free using various fighting techniques but failed to escape his grasp. She soon grew weak and sat on the floor, tears streaming from her eyes. Mia leaned in and embraced Jessica, causing Roderick to step back and release her.

Soon, the wail of police sirens filled their ears. Mia urged Jessica to go to the living room and prepare for the arrival of the police officers. Mia turned the doorknob and closed the office door.

I want to see my daughter, Jessica insisted.

No problem, ma'am, Mia reassured her. She led Jessica to the bedroom, where Ivy was fast asleep.

Jessica approached Ivy, and as if sensing her mother's presence, Ivy opened her eyes.

When Ivy saw her mother, she noticed her with watery eyes, her lips forcing a grin.

Mom, are you crying? Ivy inquired.

No, darling. I'm simply chuffed to see you, her mother replied, wiping the tears away from her eyes.

Ivy's probing eyes flitted to the crimson droplets trickling down her mother's forehead. Why do you have blood on your forehead, Mum? Ivy asked.

It's nothing, dear. I got a small cut in the kitchen. I shall mend it shortly, Jessica explained.

My head aches terribly. Can you not use your magic to alleviate my pain? Father taught you how to do it, innit? Ivy requested.

Of course, love, Jessica said. She approached Ivy and sat on the bed, Ivy climbed onto her lap.

Jessica raised her hand to stroke Ivy's cheeks, but Ivy noticed her mother's hand trembling. Mum? Ivy whispered.

A wan smile played upon Jessica's lips as she contemplated her daughter's entreaty. Yes, love? replied Jessica.

Are you alright? Your hand is shaking, Ivy said, concerned.

Is it? Jessica replied. I barely noticed. So, what would you like to do?

I have some new toys in my toy truck. Dad promised to play with me when he's done with his work, Ivy said.

Before Ivy could respond, a soft rap at the door interrupted their conversation. Roderick poked his head into the room and delivered a somber message. Madam, the officers have arrived. They wish to speak with you.

The officers? Ivy gasped. What have they come for? Ivy asked, feeling uneasy.

Merely a routine inquiry, dear, Jessica replied, attempting to allay her daughter's fears. Nothing to be concerned about. Stay here, and I shall be back shortly.

Okay, Ivy said hesitantly.

Jessica whispered to Mia, Make sure Ivy doesn't see the corpse. Keep her company while I talk to the officers.

As she exited the room, Jessica's composure crumbled, and she was overwhelmed by a flood of tears.

Chapter 2: Lie

Jessica dabbed the final tear from her face and proceeded towards the living area, where she was greeted by a hairless male police officer in a navy blue uniform embellished with two badges on his left breast.

He extended his hand for a handshake: I am Albert Maldonado, the Senior Officer for SEP - San Et Police.

Jessica hesitated, but then shook his hand firmly.

Albert continued, We received a phone call that a homicide had taken place. Is this correct?

Yes, Jessica nodded. My spouse was coldly shot in his office. Her eyes brimmed with more tears as she cried silently.

Okay, Albert replied. You don't have to be anxious. We will do our best to uncover the perpetrator behind the murder. However, we will need you to come with us to the station to give your testimony.

That won't be a problem, Jessica assured him. But I don't want my daughter to endure any emotional distress during this difficult time.

What do you propose? Albert asked.

I'm going to send her to a day-care for a week. By that time, I'll have the courage to explain to her what happened to her father.

Albert requested, As you wish. Now please lead me to the crime scene.

Follow me... Jessica escorted Albert to Tillman’s office. They stood by the door.

What time was he shot? Albert pondered aloud.

I'm not certain. I think it was between 8:25 pm and 9:10 pm. We were rendered unconscious by a gas attack. We woke up to this nightmare, she responded.

Albert nodded to Jessica's explanation while feeling a sense of pity.

Jessica proceeded with her narration, I recall seeing two men dressed in black clothing with gas masks on their faces in the bedroom when I regained consciousness. Thereafter, one of them knocked me unconscious with their firearm.

Albert mused, That could be the weapon they used to murder your husband. He paused for a moment and resumed, This room is no doubt a crime scene, no one will be allowed to enter without our authorization. The chief detective is busy, so he can't handle your case, but he has assigned a seasoned detective to take charge... Benjamin Wilson will be here first thing in the morning.

He continued, his hand fixed on the handle. A word of notice. Forensics has been dispatched to evaluate this crime scene. It will be wise not to tweak with anything sensitive.

With a grin clouding her face, Jessica entered Ivy's bedroom with a firm composure. Ivy was on the bed engrossed in her books. Mia, on the other hand, was organizing Ivy's belongings.

Ivy's eyes caught Jessica's feigned steps across the polished tile.  Mom, have the officers gone?

No, darling, replied Jessica.

Why? asked Ivy curiously.

They will be staying with us for few days, Jessica explained.

But why? Ivy persisted.

Never mind that, Jessica replied, changing the subject. What are you doing?

I'm reading one of my favourite stories: Her and It, Ivy replied, flipping through the pages of her book. It's about a brave little girl who stood up to an evil creature in a forest.

Jessica sat down next to Ivy. Wow, she spoke up, her voice tremulous. That little girl sounds very brave... just like you.

Ivy's smile melted Jessica's heart.

Something has come up, Ivy, Jessica said breaking the transient silence.

What do you mean? Ivy asked, frowning.

Jessica sighed deeply and looked into Ivy's sparkling eyes. Mommy has some work to do. I have an appointment, so I won't be able to see you for a short-

But where are you going? Ivy interrupted.

I'll explain everything when I see you again. For now, just know that I'll be busy, and everyone in this house will be too busy to play with you, Jessica said.

But I have never complained about that. I have my books to keep me entertained, Ivy replied.

I know, my dear. But I want you to spend some time in nature and play with children your own age, Jessica said. I heard Purple Day Care has some new toys you could play with.

I don't want to play with- Ivy started to protest.

Ivy, listen, Jessica interrupted. Please do this for mommy, and I promise to play with you and take you to that theater you've always wanted to go to.

Really?! Ivy exclaimed, her face lighting up with excitement. Can Daddy come too?

Jessica grinned but remained silent. She hugged Ivy, holding back