Stolen Dreams @page { margin-bottom: 5.000000pt; margin-top: 5.000000pt; } Table of Contents � Cover Page Title Page Dedication Chapter One Chapter Two Chapter Three Chapter Four Chapter Five Chapter Six Chapter Seven Chapter Eight Chapter Nine Chapter Ten Chapter Eleven Chapter Twelve Chapter Thirteen Chapter Fourteen Chapter Fifteen Chapter Sixteen Chapter Seventeen Chapter Eighteen Chapter Nineteen Chapter Twenty Chapter Twenty-One About the Author Praise for Stacey Kennedy STOLEN DREAMS � The Lingering Spirit Book One � Stacey Kennedy � *** � Published 2011 ISBN 978-0-9865931-5-4 � Copyright © 2011, Stacey Kennedy. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the author. Manufactured in the United States of America � Cover Artist: Pj Edwards Editor: Tracey West � This is a work of fiction. The characters, incidents and dialogues in this book are of the author’s imagination and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to actual events or persons, living or dead, is completely coincidental. Smashwords Edition, License Notes � This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to Smashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author. Other Titles by STACEY KENNEDY � The Magical Sword Series The Willow The Wicked The Devil’s Kiss First and Last � The Blue Bloods Series (eBook) An Everlasting Bite Silent Howl � The Watchers Series (eBook) A Deadly Whisper Whispers of Evil Dedication � To Bookish Snob for being her fabulous self! � *** � Chapter One � Starbucks was in its usual rush hour craze when I breezed through the doors. Coffee is my addiction. Looking around, evidently I wasn’t the only one that couldn’t get my ass in gear without a cup of Joe. After ten minutes in line, I made it to the counter and was greeted by a young woman who looked way too happy for this hour of the morning. Her blue eyes sparkling, white teeth gleaming and spiked artistic black hair, perfectly put together. �śCan I get a Venti Skinny Caramel Macchiato.” �śVenti Skinny Caramel Macchiato,” she called out as I handed her a ten. While I waited for my change, I glanced to my watch. Eight-forty. The time spent in line had cost me. I only had twenty minutes to get to work. Being late just wasn’t an option as the assistant to the Event Manager of Randall Marketing, Dylan Cobb. It didn’t matter if the job had him halfway around the world, he checked in at nine o’clock sharp to make sure I remained at his beck and call. Sadly, I always was. The job itself was ideal as Mr. Cobb was only in the office one week out of the month due to his promotional work. It meant I was left alone most of the time. Bossless and getting paid good money―I had the life of self-employment, but without the headache. Now, if I actually had to see Dylan on a daily basis, that would be a different story. I wouldn’t have lasted three days with him constantly looking over my shoulder, always in my space. �śOne Caramel Macchiato,” another employee called out, drawing me away from my thoughts. �śThan...” I started, but as a cold breeze swept in behind me, my words froze. To anyone else, the sensation would have been passed off as a cold breeze. I knew better than to believe that. There was a spirit here. I refused to acknowledge said spirit. �śThank you.” I impressed myself by sounding calm and collect. The server was looking at me as if I’d lost my mind as I took the cup from her hand. Ignoring that too, I spun on my heels, and kept my focus on the ceramic tiled floor to avoid any and all curious glances at my peculiar behaviour. Just as I reached for the door handle, a voice came from behind me, �śCan you hear me?” The male ghost sounded shocked. Apparently my glow grabbed his attention. As ghosts before this one had told me, I had a light around me―a golden aura. It made me stick out like a sore thumb. Ghosts were harmless―annoying, but harmless. From the surprise in his tone, it was obvious he wasn’t expecting me to hear him. Shit! I’d already given myself away. Well, I could rectify that. Without hesitation, I grabbed the door handle, pulled it open and forced myself to remain deaf to the voice. If I ignored the ghosts long enough, they moved on and searched out someone else who held this gift, which I had yet to meet. To this day, I still questioned if calling my ailment a gift was appropriate. An ability to see and hear ghosts had become more of a daily irritation than anything else. Much to my annoyance, I felt the spirit join me outside as I walked down the street. The ghost stayed right on my heels, his presence strong behind me. The cold air at my back was a contrast to the warm air in front of me as every hair on my neck stood, goose bumps pimpled a trail along my skin. If only I could rub them away, but I wouldn’t dare. That would acknowledge I knew he was there. �śCan you hear me?” His voice was rich and deep enough to send vibrations into my soul. I wasn’t so deaf that I couldn’t tell this was one smooth talking male spirit, even if his voice did come sharp with frustration. I quickened my steps to get away from him hoping he’d catch the drift, weaving in and out of pedestrians as I made my way down Peabody Place. �śWait.” Something in his insistent tone made me want to be as far away from him as possible. He sounded desperate, which meant a big headache for me. If I hadn’t worn my damn sling-backs, I would have tried to run and hide. But the three-inch Manolos and the tight tailored gray skirt around my knees made it impossible. Within minutes, I hit the heart of the Memphis City―Beale Street. I let out a breath of relief as warmth surrounded me. It wasn’t just the basking sun, the spirit had left me be. Pleased that my dodge worked, I took a sip of my energy in a cup then smiled. Coffee’s fantastic, the ghost is gone―life’s good. As I continued to walk down the street, the Hard Rock Cafe came and went. The smell of eggs and bacon filled the air and my stomach growled in response. I wasn’t a morning person by nature. My only thought when I woke this morning had been caffeine. Now, I wished I’d grabbed a muffin. But with ten minutes to get to my desk, I couldn’t worry about such things and would have to wait until lunch. Another block passed under my heels before I reached the historical red brick building with its stripped green and white awning. To me, this place looked more like a market than an office space but being downtown in the heart of Elvis Land, nothing modern existed here. The City needed a serious makeover. The moment I opened the door to the office, a bubbly voice greeted me, �śGood morning, Ms. Tess.” �śMornin’,” I responded to Doris, the receptionist at the firm who was in every way a butterscotch sundae. In her mid-forties auburn curls reached down to her ears and big brown eyes that could warm you on the coldest of days. �śA lovely day today, is it not?” Doris asked as she shuffled eons of paperwork around on her desk. The woman was very messy, yet somehow organized. Within her mess, she knew where to find the smallest items. Truly incredible to watch. After a brief moment, she lifted her face with a sweet smile as she held out the messages over the counter. �śSure is.” So, I just told a little white lie. The ghost hadn’t exactly started my day off right, but I wasn’t about to tell her about it. I grabbed the post-it notes from her hands. �śDid you have a nice weekend?” �śStarted my gardening. It’s going to be a beauty this year. You’ll have to come out and have a look-see.” I smiled. �śI’d love to.” Doris created a piece of art with her gardening skills and I would never turn down the invitation to see it. Doris loved flowers. I could at least appear interested, even though my green thumb was black. Her face lit up, but when the phone rang, she just waved a good-bye and answered it. �śIt’s another beautiful day here at Randall Marketing, how can I direct your call?” That was Doris, sunshine on the gloomiest of days. I started to walk toward my office and headed down the hall. Two doors down, I arrived. Once there, I grabbed the door handle, opened it, then closed it behind me. Just because the building was historic didn’t mean my office had to be. Complete modern chic was what I had created here―glass table, dark charcoal walls with a white upholstered rolling chair. Placing the coffee on the table, I pulled out the chair and sat down. Cool leather came against my warm skin as I flipped through the messages left for me. None were urgent enough to worry about now. I powered up the computer. As it booted up, I took a sip of my coffee. The warmth slid down my throat and gave an immediate rush to my energy levels. Before I could place the cup back on the table, a knock sounded at the door and a moment later, it opened. �śAnd just where were you all weekend?” Caley snapped, shutting the door behind her. Caley, my best friend since the age of four, was a typical pageant Queen. Bleach blonde, sparkling baby blue eyes, perfect skin and a body men drooled over. But it’s all a front―she’s the devil in disguise. �śI was at home.” I gave her an innocent smile. �śDid you try and call me?” Of course, I lied. If I let Caley drag me out every time she had an itch for a party, I’d be considered a sorority girl. Caley pointed at my face and glared. �śDon’t you try that shit on me! I called you all weekend and your damn phone went straight to voicemail.” �śHmm...” I pretended to ponder for a moment then finally said, �śThe battery must have died.” It was the only sure way to get Caley to leave me be. Truth was, she could have just come over, and I wouldn’t put it past her that she would. But the little hint was a subtle way of telling Caley I wanted to be left alone. Normally, she knew enough to stay away. �śLiar.” Caley plopped down in the seat in front of my desk. �śWhere were you, Tess? I wanted to go out.” �śI wasn’t anywhere.” I placed the coffee cup back on the table. Caley’s brows rose in disbelief as I continued. �śHonestly, I vegged on the couch.” Caley snorted. �śNow doesn’t that sound appealing?” My mouth parted to offer a snappy retort, but a cold wisp of air brushed across my skin and I froze in shock. This ghost was persistent. Normally, they never took this much time to see if I could hear them. His insistence began to intrigue me. �śHello.” Caley snapped her fingers in front of my face. �śLeave the aliens behind and return to mother earth.” I laughed it away, but felt uncomfortable. The ghost knelt right beside Caley, well not really kneeling but more floating, and made it impossible not to look at him. The thing with ghost was they made it appear as if they were sitting on objects, lying down―things like that. In actuality, they floated very close but were never quite able to obtain any physical contact with the world around them. It was weird at first. Now, after seeing it for so many years, it no longer fazed me. This ghost though had captured my attention. As much as I wanted to look away, I couldn’t―men like this were meant to be ogled. His eyes were predominantly blue, but each contained a thick chunk of chocolate brown within the blue. The contrast was stunning. I’d never seen anything like it, but my amazement had only begun. He may be a ghost, but just by looking at him, I knew he either belonged to law enforcement or the military. Only men of this calibre―chiselled bodies, a tough air about them―were created within their ranks. His expression was firm and serious, but personality lived there too. Everything about him was conflicting. His strong jaw, the muscles clenching along his cheeks, all spoke of power. His kind eyes, soft plush lips, and untidy dirty blond hair showed playfulness. He wore a black tank top which left his arms exposed and muscles upon muscles layered those arms. His body thick, wide with pure tough guy appeal. �śAnyways,” Caley said, drawing my gaze back to her. �śI had to go out with Susanne and you know how much I enjoy that.” I laughed. �śNow that sounds appealing.” Caley’s step-sister is a horny twenty year old who had the body to fulfill her needs. Whenever Caley was out with her, she spent most of the time trying to keep her out of trouble. �śYou could have stayed home, you know.” �śStayed home?” Caley’s expression showed her disgust. �śOn a Saturday night?” �śYeah, you know, get some popcorn, watch movies―relax.” Caley shook her head and gave a chastising look. �śIf you don’t stop this grandma behaviour, your va-jay-jay is going to shrivel up and die.” The ghost let out a low chuckle. The sound hit me like a cup of warm cocoa causing my insides to melt. Annoyed, I forced the reaction away. First off, Caley was so wrong―well, maybe a little right―but I’d never admit it out loud. Second, being swooned by a ghost wasn’t on my to-do-list today. �śExcuse me, my va-jay-jay is just fine,” I retorted, not only to Caley, but I also wanted the irritating ghost to know. �śWell, I’m glad to hear you’ve still got some spunk.” Caley stood, placed her hands on her hips. �śBecause I have a date for us tonight.” �śA what?” A date? Oh God, no. What had Caley gotten me involved with now and more important who? Caley’s grin showed pride in herself. �śYes, my dearest Grammy, we have a double date.” �śWith who?” �śTwo guys I met on Saturday night.” Her hands fell from her waist and she wagged her finger at me in classic Caley fashion. �śAnd you’re going, either willingly or unwillingly, so deal with it.” �śBut it’s a Monday night” Not that a date didn’t sound like fun. Hell, it’d been months, actually a year since I’d been on one, but a man Caley chose in a drunken stupor. No thanks. Being a dark brunette with the long shag look, emerald eyes surrounded by dark lashes, body of a twenty year old with boobs which screamed of youth, my looks were never the problem. It was my random spouts of talking to myself, which was the anchor in my ship. My sex life was as dead as the man in front of me. That particular part of my body was more like a woman married for forty years―bored. But it didn’t mean I wanted to go out with anyone Caley set up for me, so I did my best to get out of this. �śI have to work tomorrow.” Caley pointed her wagging finger directly at my face, as a knowing glance rose to her face. �śGrandma.” I sighed and rolled my eyes. There would be no winning here. Caley’s relentless. It was a personality trait I respected most in her. She never backed down, always dreamed big and went for it. But it wasn’t all rays of sunshine. Her determination made her a little rough around the edges. Still, I loved her for it. She may have flaws, but she was loyal and trustworthy. Qualities hard to find nowadays. If I wanted to keep any pride, I had to give in or it’d look like she won. That I couldn’t have. �śFine. I’ll go.” Caley grinned, appeased. She spun on heels and headed toward the door. �śI’ll pick you up at eight.” Then, she glanced back and winked. �śLeave the granny panties at home.” **** � Ten long, gruelling hours dragged by. Not because my boss was as demanding as any two-year-old, but because the ghost still hadn’t left or shut up. The past hours he tried his best to get my attention. Good thing, I’m great at tuning people out or I would have caved after hour two. With a long heavy sigh, I turned off the computer, cleaned up the papers, and just as I stood pushing the chair under the desk, the ghost said, �śI know you can hear me.”� � Apparently this was his favourite line, since he’d said it a thousand times over the past ten hours. A non-stop stream of jibber-jabber which was irritating. If the ghost’s voice wasn’t so damn luscious I wouldn’t be so wound up. Some spirits tried harder than others did but I never reacted to them like this. He had me intrigued. Still, I’d fight against that ridiculous feeling. Quickly, I made it out of my office and toward the front door. After a wave good-bye to Doris, I stepped outside and breathed in the early evening air. Food mixed with exhaust from the cars on the busy street―everything that meant I was home. The moment I took a step forward, my happiness faded when the ghost said, �śI’m not leaving until you admit you can hear me.” With a flick of my hair to dismiss him, I started down the street and soon I rounded onto Third Street. The ghost tried again, a little louder and more abrupt this time. �śDammit woman! Will you stop ignoring me? It’s annoying.” I’m annoying him? I wanted to laugh at the ridiculous notion, but it would only give me away. So instead, I kept my eyes glued to the street in front of me, wanting nothing more than to be home. A few blocks down, I turned onto G E Patterson Avenue, and my aching feet and head shouted in relief as my building came into view. On the outside, it appeared to be an old textile factory. Inside, it was anything but. The exact reason why I snatched one of the modern condos the day it’d gone on the market. I made my way up the stairs while I took my keys from my purse. At the thick mahogany wooden door, I raised my key pass to the scanner, grabbed the chrome door handle, and swung it open. After I hurried in, the door closed behind me with the ghost right on my heels. Just three doors down, I opened the door to my condo before slamming it closed behind me. Of course, it didn’t stop the ghost from melting through the door to invade my personal space. Tossing the keys on the kitchen table, I dropped my purse on the floor and went straight for the bathroom. If this sneaky spirit followed me, a serious fit would be released. As the bathroom closed shut behind me, I waited a moment, marvelling at my granite masterpiece. Large shower, corner Jacuzzi tub, modern sink with a glass bowl sitting atop, even the toilet looked sleek. After a moment, I let out the breath I’d been holding, pleased the ghost was smart enough to stay away from here. At least, he had some morals or maybe just common sense. What I needed was some space to breathe and the silence was pure bliss. At the shower, I turned on the water as hot as I could stand it, stripped off my clothes and stepped in to enjoy the moment of peace. It wasn’t until my fingers were wrinkled and the bathroom was full of steam did I dare to get out. I turned the shower off, squeezed the water from my hair, and wrapped the warm towel around my body. With hesitation, knowing what was ahead of me, I opened the door to the bathroom and followed the steam out as I made my way across the dark hardwood floors toward the bedroom. Halfway there, a sudden gasp―a deep, low gasp that spoke of shock and desire―stopped me. But it didn’t stop me for long. No, I couldn’t play into this type of nonsense. I scooted into my bedroom then shut the door behind me and leaned against it. What in the hell was that all about? Did he think I was beautiful? The thought did bring a smile to my face. But as fast as it came, I forced it away. What was I thinking? Being flattered by a ghost was about as sick as it came. Pushing those thoughts aside, I got dressed. Once done, I made my way back to the bathroom to take on the task of becoming a sexy kitten. A while later, I replaced the cap on my lip gloss, returned it to the make-up bag, and took a step back to examine myself in the mirror. My hair was being kind to me and my makeup was bang on. With my low-riding dark wash jeans and blue plaid three-quarter length sleeve top, tied to leave my midriff exposed, I couldn’t have been more pleased. At least, I would look sexy while I suffered through the embarrassing blind date. Right then, the familiar cold breeze swept across me again. I raised my gaze back from admiring my clothing to the mirror, I wasn’t alone. The ghost had joined me in the bathroom, and instinctively, I glanced at his face in the mirror. �śYou can see me?” he stared at me with intent. His eyes were so captivating. Everything in me screamed to look away and ignore him. But something in me just couldn’t do it. I wanted to be lost in those eyes. Who knew maybe that was his thing―a powerful presence which demanded he be heard. Whatever it was, it worked on me. Seconds passed before I snapped back to reality, tore my gaze from the mirror, spun around and walked right through him. My breath hitched as a cold shudder rendered my muscles useless for a moment. It was equivalent to walking into a deep freeze. Luckily, the effects weren’t long lasting. After my initial stagger, I persisted on and as I walked by the kitchen, the green numbers on my stainless steel stove glowed seven-fifty-eight. With sure steps, I hurried on and made it to the door, just needing to get the hell out of here and away from him. It’s one thing to see ghosts, another thing to help them if they demanded it, but to be attracted to one? This was beginning to linger into the land of the mentally unstable. I grabbed the door handle, tore through the door and didn’t stop for a second even as I heard him speak again. �śBy the way, you look sexy as hell.” *** � Chapter Two � On the walk downtown with Caley, my mood was beginning to settle right back to where it had been just a few hours ago―annoyed. �śWill you stop looking so tight assed.” Caley gave my arm a firm squeeze. I smiled slyly in return. �śMy ass is tight.” Okay, maybe not as tight as when I was twenty, but I was only twenty-six now, careful of what I ate and was known to jog at least four times a week. It kept everything right where it should be. Caley threw her head back and laughed. �śThat it...” Another voice cut through, forcing Caley’s voice to drift away. �śYou’re fucking right about that,” the ghost groaned behind me. Caley stopped, which caused me to stumble. When I gained my footing again, I looked up to her as she gave me a curious glance. �śWhat’s got you blushing?” My hands snapped up to my face and to my horror, my cheeks did feel warm. �śI’m not blushing. I...I’m...I’m hot.” Caley shook her head in disbelief and started walking again. �śUnless you somehow turned into a lesbian over the weekend and fallen for your best friend, you’re acting weird.” �śI’m not a lesbian,” I responded with a nervous laugh. �śAnd yes, I do love you.” Caley’s eyes widened and I laughed harder, the nerves now gone as amusement set in. �śBut not like that. Seriously, I’m just hot.” Just then, the ghost interrupted my lie in a rich husky tone, �śSo, this is how I get your attention is it?” The little purr which hung off his tone made me bite my bottom lip in an attempt not to focus on the little flickers of desire forming in my stomach. What had gotten into me? Lord, I needed to get some action if I was reacting like this to a non-living person. Clearly, I needed some attention. Shoving the reaction away, I focused back on Caley. �śTell me about the guy I’m hooking up with tonight?” �śHe’s just your type.” Caley wiggled her brows. �śYou’re going to thank me later.” �śWhat do you mean my type?” I hadn’t been aware I had a type. Looking back now, it was true that most of my ex’s were athletes. In my mind, it was just all a coincidence. They were just who I ended up with. I liked men―all types of them. Never would I confine my options into a little box. Apparently, Caley had already taped the box shut. �śHe’s a pro baseball player,” Caley continued, drawing me away from my thoughts. �śHe’s down visiting his family for a couple days.” �śA pro, huh?” All right, so maybe I was just fooling myself about not having a type, because hearing baseball player made my interest rise as my mind was swept away with images of skin-tight white pants and a scrumptious ass. Caley nodded, obviously reading my peak of excitement. �śYeah, he’s got the looks too.” Then, she nudged her shoulder into mine. �śAnd the money.” �śWomen,” the ghost muttered, still following in behind. �śSo, what does he look like?” I ignored the ghost like the ghost he was. �śCute―you know, like baseball player cute.” Caley and her lame descriptions of men were frustrating. She put them into categories―cute and not cute. There was no black and white with her ever. �śWell that narrows it down a lot.” �śI know, they’re hot―what else matters.” We exchanged a laugh then I sighed it away. �śI take it yours is a ball player too?” Caley looked at me as if I had four eyes. �śYou think I’d give this hunk to you if there wasn’t one for me too.” �śRight.” Stupid of me to think she’d give before she’d take. It just wasn’t in her nature to share. Caley was just Caley. Sure, she had a bit of a powerhouse personality, but she always had my back without question. A loyal friend I hoped never to be without. �śWhy did I assume otherwise?” Caley’s look was dead serious, her voice equally so. �śI have absolutely no idea.” Another block swept under our clicking heels before we hit Beale Street. Only a short distance down stood our destination for the night. Coyote Ugly Saloon was in full swing tonight. The line-up of people outside meant an hour of waiting, but I wasn’t worried. I doubted we’d have to wait.� � �śBrandon,” Caley called out and pulled on my arm. If I was hesitant to do this, my feelings on the subject changed. Caley must have known my type better than I knew it because either of the men standing before me would have fallen into the fantasy category. �śSo, glad you came,” Brandon said to Caley, his lips curved up slightly. A slow smile rose to Caley’s face. Oh yes, Brandon was a fortunate man―he was getting lucky tonight. �śYou must be Tess,” a kind murmur of a voice said. �śI’m Trent.” My gaze connected with the voice and I smiled. �śThat’d be me. It’s nice to meet you, Trent.” He gave a firm nod and grinned as a little dimple deepened on his cheek. He wasn’t built like a brick house, he was slender, but still ripped. If his body fat was tested it’d be somewhere in the negatives. He held the typical all-American look―brown hair, blue-eyed, charming smile and with his dimple, I was sure he could woo his way into anyone’s bed. Maybe even mine if he played his cards right tonight. �śI take it you play for Detroit?” The big white D on his navy blue hat made it an obvious assumption. Trent nodded. �śBoth Brandon and I do. We were lucky enough to get a little time off to see the family.” �śDetroit.” The ghost huffed. �śFigures, team sucks.” Ignoring the ghost’s snippy remark, I continued, �śSo, you grew up around here?” �śI’ll be back,” Caley interrupted, heading off to the bouncer. If one good thing came from her charismatic pushy attitude, it was she knew everyone and was very hard to say no to. Even I had trouble doing it on a few occasions. �śBorn and raised,” Trent replied, just before Caley’s voice bellowed through the night sky. Turning toward her, she was wagging her hands calling me forward. I turned back to Trent, laughing. �śWe’ve been summoned.” He laughed too and followed in behind as we stepped past the irritated crowd and entered the bar. Loud country music, hoots and hollers rang out around me. Squeezing through the crowd, Caley pointed to a table across the way. I manoeuvred my way toward it. Once there, Trent held out the stool and motioned for me to sit. I smiled in return―a gentleman too. He was sure playing his cards right toward a royal flush. �śWhat’s your drink?” Trent asked me as I sat down. A question not hard for me to answer because I only drank one thing. �śA cold beer.” Didn’t matter what brand, beer was beer. As long as it was ice cold, I was happy. �śMy kind of lady.” Trent winked, then he and Brandon headed to the bar to get their drinks. Caley was beaming as I looked at her, literally bouncing up and down on her stool. �śI did good, right?” I nodded, not at all ashamed with showing her how much I appreciated her pick for me. �śDamn right, you did.” �śWomen,” the ghost said again from beside me. A deep sigh escaped my mouth. I’d forgotten all about him. But nothing was going to ruin my excitement now. It’d been a long time since I’d met anyone worth meeting. This ghost wasn’t going to put a damper on my fun. Dammit! Trent and Brandon returned to the table with four beers in hand. After claiming a glass, I took a long sip and sighed in happiness. After the day I had, it was what I needed. The cold beer refreshed the senses, revived the mood and removed the tension sitting heavy on my shoulders. When I lowered the beer, Trent grinned at me. �śLooks like you enjoyed that.” He sounded amused and his voice rumbled with an obvious interest in me. I laughed flirtatiously to reciprocate the interest, licked the dribble of beer from my lips, and set the bottle down in front of me. �śIt’s good.” Curious about him, I asked, �śDo you like playing ball?” Those were the last words I spoke for twenty minutes, and the beginning of a conversation I wished I’d never started. Caley, the traitor, had vanished onto the dance floor with Brandon which left me with this pompous stud. �śI have really grown as a player...” Trent was saying. While his mouth worked, I wondered if every good-looking man was this self-involved? In most cases, I tried to stay away from anyone who looked too good. Anyone who spent more time in front of the mirror than I did was likely to care about only one thing―himself. Since I had the chance to think things over while I was doing whatever I could to not absorb anything he was saying, I realized my type wasn’t athletic, it was the more rugged kind. The ones who weren’t pretty, but rough and edgy. At least, I got that out of this time wasted in Trent Land. �śThis guy is a fucking joke,” the ghost snapped next to me. I wanted to turn my head and nod, but of course, didn’t. Instead, I continued to listen to Trent’s words without really hearing what he had to say. I merely muttered �śyeah or cool” when appropriate. �śIf I was him, I would have had you back in my bed the moment I laid eyes on you.” My front teeth clamped down on my bottom lip in shock and to also force the little feelings of excitement in my belly to go away. Why did his words give me such a reaction? I’d never experienced anything like this in my life. It was only words, but it had the same effect as if he was staring at me with smouldering eyes or enticing me with soft touches. �śThe coach has been really pleased...” Trent said next. �śI would have used the time learning my way around your luscious curves.” I squirmed on the stool a moment in an attempt to ignore the soft purr next to my ear. Even leaned in further toward Trent and tried to concentrate on his boring conversation. My gaze focused on Trent’s lips as if I needed to watch them in order to understand the words he spoke. �śThen, I would kiss your mouth until your lips are rosy and swollen.” To disregard him was impossible. I responded by crossing my legs and squeezing them together tight. My body was reacting to his words even though I knew how wrong this was. He was a ghost―none of this should arouse me―but it did. �śAfter I’ve had enough of your lips, I would seek to discover all those little places that make you squirm.” Then, he ran his finger from below my ear all the way down to the nape of my neck. It wasn’t a touch I'd ever felt from someone living or someone dead. No ghost had ever laid a finger on me. Now, I was happy they hadn’t. It was more of a cold shiver which trailed my skin to leave goose bumps in its wake and created sensations in me which battled against my will. �śTess,” Caley’s sudden voice demanded. It wasn’t until I opened my eyes, did I realize I’d shut them. After taking a moment to focus, not only was Caley giving me a funny look, but Trent and Brandon were too. �śWhat is wrong with you?” Caley exclaimed. I shook my head and released a breath that came out in a slow wisp of air. �śNothing, I’m fine.” �śYes, you would be fine when my tongue is teasing up your inner thighs, tempting you, tasting you.” �śYou are not.” Caley pointed her finger directly at me. �śYour face is completely red.” �śYour pussy would be throbbing, creaming―hungry for the feel of my mouth.” My thighs squeezed together to give my clit a little of what it was after. The second my legs tightened, a deep shudder ran through me. �śAnd when you couldn’t take anymore, I would give you what you wanted. I would lick into you, swirling your juices with my tongue and not until I had my full taste of you would I move away.” In a quick move, I grabbed my beer, took a big swig, then a couple more as all eyes stared at me with blatant confusion. Never had I been this aroused in my life. Part of me wanted to move away while the other needed to hear more. My thighs clenched with the pulse of my pussy and the wetness drenching my panties was unbearable. �śI’d take your mouth again so you could taste yourself―knowing that your scent has filled me as I widened your thighs to accept me. I would wait until your hips arched toward me, begging me to take you. Then, and only then, would I slam my cock deep inside of you.” I found myself gripping the table with my hands. I was way beyond excited, teetering on near insanity. �śAhh...Tess,” Caley said with soft hesitation. �śSeriously, are you okay?” The moment I locked gazes with her, Caley’s eyes went wide with surprise. Nothing in me could care. I needed him to finish his words. The fantasy he started to build in my mind needed completion. �śYes.” My voice came out in a purr. �śYes, I’m good.” Caley let out a low nervous chuckle. �śI would thrust against you roughly, demanding that you react to my intentions.” He began to run his finger along my exposed lower back and the coldness against my hot skin caused my breath to deepen and my body to quiver from the icy embrace. �śYou would come because you’d be left with no other choice than to do so. And without giving you the chance to recover, I’d flip you over on your knees and fuck you senseless.” That was it. I shot up from my seat, causing the stool to slam back into the person behind me who swore in return. �śI have to go.” My voice squeaked out in an urgent demand. Caley nodded. �śAh yeah, I think you do.” Without another word, I bolted from the pub. I ran hard, my shins screaming out at me, reminding me I was in three-inch heels. I never listened though. I needed to get home. The ghost didn’t follow me and I was glad. I needed some space, time to return to reality, or to pleasure this need out of me. Any of that would do. Within only a few minutes, I arrived home and grabbed the keys from my purse before I even hit the stairs. The need hadn’t vanished. If anything, it had grown. My body pulsated. The wetness in my panties was a constant reminder of his words. I hit my key pass against the reader. When the door beeped, I rushed in and ran like a bat out of hell toward my condo. At the door, I fumbled with my keys. Eventually, I got the damn thing to open, slamming it closed behind me. Not bothering to lock it, I did the only thing my mind could comprehend at the moment. I ran to the bedroom, stripped out of my clothes, grabbed my vibrator from the drawer to give myself pleasure and finished what the ghost had started. *** � Chapter Three � Ring ring...ring ring...ring ring... Without lifting my head, I reached out to the telephone, which sat on the bedside table then pressed the phone to my ear and croaked, �śHello.” �śWakey, wakey, rise and shine!” Caley’s amused voice was loud. �śDo you mind explaining why you looked ready to hump that stool last night?” Rolling onto my back, I put my hand over my eyes in mortification. �śYou wouldn’t believe me even if I told you.” �śOh yeah? Try me.” Caley was the only one who knew about my ability to see ghosts, but just because she knew, didn’t mean we talked about it often. The idea scared Caley and I could understand it―at first it had scared me too. But one thing that was a constant between us was the truth. She asked, therefore, she was about to get what she wanted. �śIt was a ghost.” There was a long silence before Caley finally said, �śA ghost who made you almost orgasm in public?” I nodded then realized she couldn’t see me so followed up by saying, �śHe was talking dirty.” �śHe was what?” she exclaimed so loud, I had to shift the phone away from my ear. �śAnd it turned you on?” After a deep sigh, I brought the phone back and answered her, �śApparently.” Another long silence hit before she said, �śThat’s sexy.” My hand dropped from my face and I bolted upright. �śIt’s not sexy―it’s sick.” Caley didn’t seem to agree, and moved along dismissing my earlier statement. �śSo, he’s hot I take it.” �śJust a little bit.” Hot didn’t define what he was. Sexy, smouldering, downright delectable was more like it. Her voice was tinged with laughter just waiting to explode. �śYou should have seen yourself last night.” �śPlease, don’t remind me.” I must have looked ridiculous, red-faced and all. Caley giggled. �śSo, is this ghost with you now?” The thought hadn’t even crossed my mind. I lowered my hand and looked out in front of me. �śI don’t know if he’s here.” A loud clearing of a throat came from beside me. I screamed like a girl seeing Justin Timberlake, dropped the phone, and jumped out of bed to see the ghost sitting in the chair in the corner of the room. �śDon’t do that,” I yelled at him. He laughed, grinning with thoroughly amused eyes. �śMy apologies.” The phone had fallen to the floor, I spun around, bent down, and the ghost groaned. Snatching the phone up, I stood and glanced back to him. He appeared tense, straining almost. His eyes deep, his lips in a thin line and his fists tight floating above the arm rests. Caley’s screams erupting through the air snapped me away from him, I raised the phone to my ear. �śTess, Tess,” she shouted. �śSorry, I’m here.” �śIs he there with you now?” She sounded shocked, yet curious. My gaze moved back to the ghost lounging in my old wooden rocking chair, his fingers now laced behind his head. �śYes, he’s here. I have to go.” Without giving Caley a chance to respond, I hung up the phone. �śSleep well?” the ghost asked. Yes, in fact I had the best sleep of my life. After being turned on to high, then left to simmer, then brought to a boil, when my head hit the pillow I was dead to the world. Not that I’d tell him. �śDon’t you go being all Mr. Nice Guy after the stunt you pulled last night.” He smirked, relief flashed across his face. �śShe finally decides to stop ignoring me.” Amusement twinkled in his eyes. �śI thought that might grab your attention.” I glared at the suggestion. Like I would have been able to do anything but acknowledge him. �śHow could I ignore you with all the smooth fantasyland talking? What are you some type of phone sex operator?” He threw his head back, let out a loud laugh, then met my gaze again. �śNo, but was I good at it?” �śNo,” I snapped, but even as I said it, knew it was a lie. He had gotten to me as no one ever had. If I let myself be reminded of his words, I was sure I’d end up reaching for the drawer again. �śNow that’s a lie,” he said, quite proud of himself. Oh, I had reached the last straw. Now he was calling me out. I took a step toward him and noticed when I closed in on him, he did a full once over on my body. His gaze came slowly back up to mine. Powerful sparks of reaction lived there. It didn’t stop me from still being annoyed with him. �śThat’s it! Who are you?” �śKipp McGowan,” he answered, calm and so sure of himself. �śWell, Kipp McGowan...” I placed my hands on my hips, lifted my chin to dignify myself, �śwhat do you want?” �śFinally, she asks the right question.” He gave my body the once over again then gave a sexy smile. �śI’ll wait for you out in the living room to discuss it.” He stood and headed for the door, but before he exited, glanced back with a raised eyebrow. �śYou might want to put some clothes on.” Immediately, I glanced down to realize I was naked. After settling myself last night, I was so exhausted I went straight to sleep without dressing―something I apparently forgotten until now. As the door shut, his laughter came deep from the other side. Mortified, without pause, I got dressed in jeans and a cotton tee, mumbling obscenities the entire time. Once done, I gripped the door handle while I attempted to find some balls. After an obscene about of time, I decided on a different way to handle this situation. Ignore it. I took a deep breath, opened the door and made my way out to the living room. Kipp rested on the couch, the grin still very prevalent on his face. My hand shot up as I gave him a glare which clearly stated I’d Ghostbuster his ass if he said a word. �śNot discussing it―never happened.” His low chuckle echoed around me as I made my way to the kitchen. Day old blueberry muffins from the bakery around the corner were where I’d left them on the marble counter beside the sink. I snatched one up before going back to join him. �śSo, lay it on me, how do I get rid of you?” Kipp ran a hand along his scruffy chin and I wasn’t blind to it―blind to the fact I had an urge to feel his face myself. But it was a want which was impossible. I needed to get my head screwed on straight. Why was I even thinking these things? Luckily, he spoke and it focused me away from my inner hell. �śI’m a cop with the Memphis Police.” �śA cop,” I repeated, pulling the wrapper off the muffin and placing in on the glass coffee table. �śNever had one of you before.” He lowered his hand from his face with a curious glance. �śSo this happens to you often?” I took a bite of the muffin, the flavour exploded in my mouth as the blueberries added a little sour to the sweet muffin, then I nodded. �śAll the time.” After swallowing, I asked, �śI’m surprised you have figured out that you’re a ghost. Normally when ghosts come to me they have no idea.” They always needed a little help to figure out what happened to them and to admit the fact they were no longer among the living. �śIt took a while to realize something was wrong. But when I talked to people and no one responded it was pretty clear cut.” Then, he examined me again with more curiosity. �śYou only see dead people?” �śNo, I don’t see dead people, I see spirits.” His eyebrow arched up in question. �śThere’s a difference?” Stupid sexy ghost! �śOf course there’s a difference. If I saw dead people it would be their bodies, you know bloody, stiff, blue―that kind of stuff.” �śLovely image,” he said in a snort. I shrugged away his bothered look. He shouldn’t have asked if he didn’t want to know. Besides, he was a cop, he should be used to guts and gore. �śThe ones I see are like you. Who look entirely normal, but are stuck here, needing to do something that will free them and allow them to cross over.” �śCross over to where?” �śI would guess Heaven.” I gave a nonchalant wave of my hand. �śI don’t really know where you go after here. All I know is after I help the spirits do whatever they need, they up and vanish.” He shook his head, clearly in disbelief. �śAnd how long have you been able to see and talk to spirits?” He ran his gaze along my face as if he was searching for something. Probably the truth. �śI was in a car wreck when I was seventeen. Almost died, but a doctor was in the car behind us when the accident happened. He worked his magic and saved my life.” He went quiet a moment, thoughtful, then he asked, �śHave you looked into why you hold this ability?” Been there, done that. �śRead a couple books about it. When someone dies, like I did for a total of ten minutes, then is revived sometimes they take part of the...” I hesitated, trying to find the right words, �śthe place between Heaven and earth with them.” �śAnd that is where I am now?” His voice was unwavering. Nothing about him was readable. He never let on by his expression or his voice what he felt. �śI suspect so.” He fell silent as he glanced at his hands. When he looked up there was sadness in his unusual coloured eyes. �śI don’t feel dead.” If I could have hugged him, I would have. He might have been bugging me or arousing me into unknown territory, but I did have a heart and he was tugging on my heartstrings. �śI’ve never met a ghost who did.” The sadness in the ghost’s eyes always got me. I couldn’t refuse them when I saw it, hence, why I always avoided talking to them. Suddenly, my appetite fled. I placed the muffin on the coffee table to sit with the wrapper. �śWhat is it you need me to do, Kipp?” He gave his head a shake, apparently to gather himself as his eyebrows drew together to focus. �śMy partner, Zach Foster and I were working cold case files within the department.” �śOh, I’ve seen that show.” �śTrust me, it’s nothing that exciting. The cases are old and digging into them is exhausting. Out of the hundred cases we have sifted through, we’ve probably solved two.” There went my images of grave digging, solving mysteries and fighting crime. Television, the devil’s play toy―nothing was ever as it seemed. �śShitty,” was my only response. He nodded, his eyebrows furrowed deeper. �śExactly.” The sudden urge made me want to run my fingers along those stiff lines between his brows to erase the worry there. A moment later, I realized where my mind was going. I dug my nails into my palms to focus away from the ridiculous line of thinking just as he said, �śThe last case we were working on was the disappearance of a twenty year old woman who went missing five years ago.” That seemed familiar. I flittered through my memory, then something came up to the surface. �śAre you talking about Hannah Reid?” �śYou’re aware of the case?” Curiosity filled his tone. �śOf course I am, wasn’t everyone?” The case was everywhere, hundreds of volunteers came to aid in the search, but even after weeks, Hannah was never found. He inclined his head, his questions to how I knew about the disappearance was apparently settled. �śAnyways, we were beginning to break ground with the case. Leads were developing. The last thing I can remember was going to a house that may have been the last place Hannah was.” I went quiet for a moment, examining him. Something was off here―he seemed so...coherent. Confused, I asked, �śHow do you remember all this?” His gaze swept with pure amusement, before he looked at me as if my head was screwed on backwards. �śHow do I remember my life?” �śYes, exactly that.” He remembered details about the case he was working on, the house he went to, and he knew he had died. Nothing about this made any sense. �śHow do you remember that?” He chuckled, arched an eyebrow. �śWhy wouldn’t I?” �śBecause the ghosts I’ve met never do. They only know what they need to do to cross over.” Maybe this was funny to him. To me, it wasn’t. It was too weird to be funny. I had never come across this before. I’d gotten used to my peculiar little world I lived in and here was this ghost stirring it all up. It made me uncomfortable. His eyes went wide with obvious puzzlement. �śReally?” �śYou’re the first ghost I’ve ever met who can remember anything from the past.” �śI can remember everything―right down to what I ate on Sunday.” Then, his gaze was probing. �śWhat does that mean?” �śGot me.” I shrugged. Silence filled the room with a bunch of the unknowns, I grasped on the only thing I did know. �śSo, since your last memory was of the house, I take it you died there?” �śI was shot,” he replied without hesitation. Yuck, not a nice way to go. I was only too glad when the ghosts appeared their manner of death hadn’t followed them. Seeing someone’s insides on the outside held no appeal to me. I cleared my mind of the revolting thought and went on. �śDo you know who shot you?” �śI suspect it was whoever killed Hannah Reid. Apparently, I was closing in on a suspect and whoever it was didn’t want me to find out their identity.” Guess that made sense. �śAll right, I get it, but what do you need me to do?” For the life of me, I couldn’t see where this was going. He had been quite persistent I acknowledge him. As interesting as this all was, I was at a complete loss as to what he wanted from me. �śI need you to go to the station and talk with my partner. Fill him in on what I know so he can move along with the case.” My mind processed his words, then I burst out laughing. �śOh, that’s a good one.” He said nothing and my laughter ceased. �śPlease tell me this is a joke?” He shook his head, his expression severe. �śIt must be why I’m still here. Obviously, I was on the right track since apparently I’m dead. The only way to solve this case is to tell my partner what I know, and the only way to do it is through you.” Again, I processed this. My thoughts ran wild as I went over his words just to be sure I understood him. �śAre you seriously suggesting, I walk into the police station and tell them the friend they have just lost is actually not gone, but here with me as a ghost and wants me to relay information which will solve a cold case?” �śSounds as if you got it right.” Pushing against the couch with my hands, I rose to my feet and crossed my arms across my chest. �śNo.” Dammit, this was over the top. I had no interest in looking like a fool in front of a bunch of cops. This was my secret, one I kept bundled up and hidden from the world. None of me wanted to expose it to be laughed at. �śYou want to get rid of me?” The side of his mouth arched as he attempted to show me my choices were limited. �śWell, this is how.” I exhaled a low deep sound, pondering his words. It annoyed me to find part of me wanted to say no because the thought of him gone unsettled me, which was just disturbing. The situation was beginning to turn into some sick movie I’d watch because I didn’t have a choice, but then I’d complain about how morbid it was afterwards. This had to end now. �śFine, I’ll help you. But just so you know, they’re not going to believe me.” He winked and aimed a grin my way which nearly swept me off my feet. �śYou won’t see me arguing that point with you, gorgeous.” *** � Chapter Four � The thing about downtown living is everything is just a short walk away. G E Patterson Avenue was the road which leads to anything that matters here in Memphis. Kipp stayed beside me, quiet as we made our way toward the station. Didn’t even say a word when I called in sick to work to handle this little problem. Doris, as always, wished me well. After turning my cell phone off to not be disturbed, I placed it in my back pocket. I needed to break the awkward silence around us. �śSo...how long have you been dead?” I clamped a hand over my mouth, horrified. Of course I blurted out something so inappropriate since I was feeling uncomfortable. �śSorry, that came out all wrong.” He laughed my indignity away. �śNah, it’s all right. It’s a valid question. If I woke the night I died, it’s been a week.” A week didn’t really seem long. To a dead person, it must feel like an eternity, no one to talk to or acknowledge your presence. It couldn’t have felt good. �śAnd you’ve just been wandering the streets since then?” �śWent home for a few days actually, but when that got me nowhere I decided to venture out.” He winked. �śThen, luckily I stumbled across you.” Yeah right, lucky me! Another block passed under my feet before Main Street came into view. The downtown core was busy tonight, which was why every person I passed gave me a look of oh that poor crazy person since I was having a conversation with myself. �śIt was the glowing bit wasn’t it?” He arched his eyebrow. �śGlowing bit?” �śThe golden aura.” I waved my hand across my body to prove my point. �śIt’s what made you approach me, right? You know, made you know I could help you?” The arch of his eyebrow fell as he smiled. �śInitially it was, yes.” His vague answer left me a little puzzled, but the intensity of his stare when he said it, meant I wasn’t about to dig deeper. Plus that sexy grin left me all too aware he was once a man�"a smokin’ man with a dirty mouth. One I apparently was quite fond of. I focused back on the street, changing the subject. �śHow long have you been a cop?” He chuckled deeply before he answered. Apparently, he was aware I just dodged his attempt to flatter me. �śJoined the force a few years back and it’s been my life ever since.” �śNot married then?” It came as a surprise to hear his job was his life. I hadn’t taken him for a workaholic. Too personable. He glanced sideways at me, his sleek eyebrow arched up again. �śYou up for a proposal?” �śNo,” I snapped instantly. �śI was just curious. Wanted to get to know you better, that’s all.” Maybe I was being more obvious than I thought. Did my smidgen of interest in Kipp show? God, I hoped not. I’d have to remember to not ask personal questions. Kept me safe from exposure that for some reason my mind drifted to an odd intrigue about him. �śNo, I’m not married.” His grin remained, telling me I was being entirely obvious. He waited until we turned left to walk down Main Street then continued, �śNot even a girlfriend. Too busy working to have time for relationships.” His eyes twinkled. �śWell, ones that last longer than a night.” Typical man answer. �śSounds like you had fun.” He nodded, solemnly. �śYes, I have had that.” Immediately, I realized I’d made a terrible mistake. I shouldn’t have been talking about him like this. An urge to smack myself silly hit me. Here was this dead guy, grieving everything he’d lost and here I was making him relive it. If able to, I would have buried myself underground and stayed there. �śI’m sorry. This must be really hard for you to talk about your life.” His eyes filled with a sadness which seemed far more profound than what I would have expected. I’d hit a sore spot indeed. He shook his head, confusing me. �śIt’s not what you think.” It’s not what you think? What did that mean? He isn’t sad his life is over? It was there, no denying it, something made him regretful. �śWhat...” �śMa’am you all right?” A stern voice interrupted. I glanced away from Kipp to see a uniformed cop staring at me. �śAhh...” I peered over his shoulder to see we had arrived at the police station. I’d been so lost in the conversation and my own thoughts it just hadn’t clued in. �śYes, I’m fine. I’m...ahhh...just going into there.” I pointed at the red brick police station. The cop inclined his head. Seemed he agreed that was a good choice for me considering he saw me talking to air. �śGo on in. You will find the help you need with the officers there. You can trust them.” He held the front door open for me and nodded me in. I fought against the urge to roll my eyes. Instead, I smiled. �śThank you.” I stepped by him and entered the station. He tipped his hat, returned the smile. �śGood day to you, Ma’am.” The door closed behind me with a whoosh of air. The station was busy. A simple design, main counter in the front, hall down to the left, and behind the counter was cubicles of busy police officers. At the main counter, a young woman fresh out of college�"bright-eyed with an eagerness to work�"sat with a phone stuck to her ear directing calls. Give her five years and this pretty brunette would be letting the phone ring ten times before answering it. The excitement about being a big girl wore off real quick once you hit the real world. Only a few feet away from the desk, I said, under my breath. �śYou owe me so big for this.” Of course, he couldn’t repay me, but it just needed to be said. Kipp chuckled. �śWhat can I do for you?” the receptionist asked as she hung up the phone and met my gaze. �śTell Betty you need to speak with Zach.” The door next to desk opened with a loud bang, startling me. Two cops came in with a drunk, elderly gentleman slurring and spitting while he fought against the cuffs around his wrists. I squished myself against the desk to get as far away from him as I could. He reeked of day old booze and piss. Lord, I didn’t belong here. I glanced back to the receptionist who wore an impatient expression. She might be used to this but I wasn’t. �śIs Detective Zach in?” �śDetective Zach?” I shrugged, shifted my weight on my foot to hide the move. Without a last name, it was the best I could come up with. If Kipp wanted better, he could go float away to find someone else to do this. Which would have been perfectly fine with me. �śZach Foster?” Betty asked, reaching for the phone. �śThat’s him.” I nodded. �śYup, Zach Foster. Is he in?” Betty’s fingers waited on the buttons to obviously make the call. �śWho can I tell him is here and the reason for your visit?” �śTess Jennings.” I stole a quick glance at Kipp. He nodded encouragingly. With a deep sigh, I looked back at Betty. �śI’m here to talk about Kipp McGowan.” Betty’s eyes went wide, her fingers typed quickly as she entered in the extension. �śOne moment please.” After only a few moments, she said, �śA visitor to see you, Sir. She has information regarding Kipp.” Another pause. �śMm hmm.” Then another. �śYes Sir, I will send her along.” She hung up the phone. �śZach will be with you shortly, but Eddie will meet you in interview room one.” Great! More cops, just what I wanted. �śJust go straight down the hall, first door on the left,” she directed. �śThanks.” Kipp led the way to the interview room, but he didn’t need to. The cop waiting outside the door told me I was in the right spot. His cute face was full of suspicion. His deep brown eyes studied me as he ran a hand through his rich mocha styled hair. �śTess Jennings?” the Jersey-Boy cop asked. �śThat’s me.” He opened the door and waved me in. �śI’m Detective Eddie Miller.” I stepped into the A-typical police interrogation room�"two way mirror and all. My only hope was he’d forget my face after this day, which I doubted. He was a cop after all, trained never to forget a face. Eddie followed me in, closed the door behind him, then met my gaze with no amount of playfulness on his face. �śWhat information do you have on the incident with Kipp?” �śWell...” And that was the beginning of a one-sided conversation as Eddie sat and watched me with an unreadable expression. Ten minutes later, I finished the replay on the past events. �ś...and that brings us to now.” Eddie sat quiet, nothing showed on his face. Finally, he broke his silence. �śLet me get this straight. Our comrade, Kipp McGowen is a ghost�"here with you now�"and wants to talk with his partner, Zach, about a cold case they were working on?” �śYou got it.” He burst out laughing then stood. �śWait here. I’ll be back in a minute.” The moment the door closed, I aimed a glare at Kipp. �śI told you no one is going to believe this.” Not that I hadn’t expected this, but it was far worse than even my imagination could have concocted. Kipp smiled, which appeared to be in a reassuring way. It didn’t work. �śJust give him time. He’s never come across this and probably thinks you’re a nut.” When my glare deepened, he cleared his throat and added, �śWe’ll show them you aren’t.” The door suddenly opened, and to my utter horror, another cop joined the one I had the not-so-great-pleasure of just meeting. �śOh, wonderful.” Kipp laughed deeply. �śJust be patient―we’ll show them.” Yeah right, as if I hadn’t already been patient enough. My breath came out in a heavy huff as they took their seats at the table around me. �śMy name is Max, Ms. Jennings,” the man introduced himself. Apparently, he was the one who dealt with the crazies, and I could see why, his kind face was trusting. �śEddie tells us Kipp is here with you.” I nodded heavily, forced myself to give the guy the benefit of the doubt, and held back my snappy retort. He hadn’t directly asked me the question and was due the right to ask anything. �śYes, that is what I said to him.” Eddie laughed loudly. Max hid his smile�"not so well. �śAnd you have also stated that Kipp has the answers to solve the disappearance of Hannah Reid.” These men and their stupid questioning were going to be the death of me. My patience was hanging on by a very thin thread. �śNo.” Max’s eyebrows rose, confusion hard on his face. �śNo, that is not what you said to him?” �śYes...I mean, no.” I threw up my hands exasperated. �śWhat I’m trying to tell you is he doesn’t have information on her disappearance, but her murder.” Max’s eyebrows rose higher, nearly reaching his hairline. �śYou do realize her body has not been discovered?” �śThe papers said as much,” I responded with shrug. �śKipp hasn’t told me so much.” Max pondered that for a moment, his gaze intent on mine. �śSo, what has Kipp told you then?” �śTread lightly here,” Kipp cut in. �śWe don’t know who to trust.” Well wasn’t that a whole bucket of reassurance. �śWhat he has told me is he thinks whoever shot him is also the one responsible for killing Hannah.” Max frowned, leaning back in his chair and crossed his arms over his chest. �śHave you ever been institutionalized, Ms. Jennings?” The blood in my body boiled as my teeth gritted. And here they were, the inevitable questions. �śNo. I. Have. Not.” Max didn’t look put off by my anger directed at him. �śDo you have a history of mental illness in your family?” My arms crossed over my chest in preparation for just where this was going. �śNo.” �śSo...” Max glanced around the room. �śKipp is here, right now in this room telling you these things.” I had just about enough of being made a fool of. If he could make me feel stupid, I would simply have to return the lack of curiosity. �śNo.” Max responded with an equivocal look. �śNo?” �śHe is not...” I waved my hand around the room. �śEverywhere you looked.” I pointed to the chair next to me. �śHe is sitting right there.” Loud laughter washed through the bland white room. It was just the thing to make my annoyance shoot through the roof. It’s one thing to hear them chuckle, see their smirks on their faces, but to be right out laughed at? Oh no, my limit had been reached. �śListen here.” The men went dead quiet, surprised gazes met mine. �śDo you think I came here because I felt like being made fun of? Well, I didn’t.” I pointed to Kipp, who sat beside me. �śThese ghosts will not leave me alone. Do you think I have any interest in looking like a complete crazy person? The only reason I am here is because Kipp wants to pass on a message. So, either get on with it and ask me some goddamn important questions or I’m leaving.” No one said a word at my rant, but the silence broke when the door flew open, and Kipp stood up. �śZach.” �śThank god.” I threw my hands up in relief. �śZach has finally arrived.” It was about time. Now, this horrible-no-good night could end and I’d put this memory into the past, never to be revisited. Again, no one said a word. Stunned expressions were all around me. �śDo you know her?” Max asked Zach. Zach examined me a moment, cocked his head and searched for recognition. He finally looked back at Max. �śI haven’t a clue who she is.” Max turned back to me. �śHow do you know his name?” It was like talking to a bunch of idiots. Honestly, my patience with these people was beginning to dwindle. �śBecause Kipp just said his name.” �śLeave her with me,” Zach ordered. The men followed the demand immediately, all exiting the room quickly. After he closed the door behind them, Zach focused on me. I could only gulp as he made his way toward me. If bodybuilders were my thing, he’d be something to look at. Everything about him was tough, his dark eyes showed a resolve that was not to be played with, and the tight line of his lips declared he was not the type of guy you pissed off and lived to tell about it. He grabbed a chair across from me, spun it around and straddled it. �śNow, tell me what you told them.” I shrieked in frustration and dropped my face into my palms. �śIf I have to say this one more time, I’m seriously going to blow a gasket.” Kipp laughed loudly and I raised my head to glare at him. �śIt’s not funny.” �śYes it is.” Kipp continued to chuckle. �śI didn’t laugh,” Zach commented. My gaze went back to his and I nodded to show him I knew that. The continued insinuations I was slow, was irritation at its best. �śI know you didn’t laugh.” I pointed to Kipp again. �śHe did.” Zach followed my finger, then looked around the room a couple times before glancing back to me. �śAnd the he you are talking about is Kipp?” I nodded slowly, indicating how stupid of a question it was. Zach sat straighter in his chair and laced his hands behind his head, his expression disbelieving. �śYour story is that Kipp, who is a ghost, has come to you and said he knows how to solve the Reid cold case.” �śYes. Now was that so hard?” Good grief, it was like talking to someone in a foreign language. Zach fell silent as he examined me. His look gave no sign of what he was thinking. When the quiet grew stifling, I needed to break from it. �śDo you believe me or not, because if you don’t, I’d like to go home.” I was done with this before I’d even walked in the door. The faster I was out of here, the sooner I could either laugh or cry. I wasn’t quite sure which one I was leaning toward at the moment. �śYou won’t be going home,” Zach responded, instantly. There went that comforting idea. �śAs to the matter of whether I believe you?” he continued. �śThat remains to be seen and the only way to discover if you are being truthful is to ask you a few questions.” Finally, someone here had a bit of sense. Instead of just making a joke about this, he was intrigued enough to dig further. A sense of relief washed through me. �śWell, get on with it, I’d very much like this show to end.” Zach lowered his hands from his head and placed them on the table, his gaze intent. �śSo, Kipp is here with you now?” I smacked my forehead and let out another squeal of annoyance. �śOh my fucking God.” �śOkay.” Zach raised his hands in surrender. �śOkay, I’m sorry. All right, if he is here, ask him what we did last Sunday.” �śWatched the football game,” Kipp responded. �śFirst of all, I don’t have to ask him. He can hear you and he said you watched football together.” Zach eyebrows furrowed but he shook it away and relaxed his features. �śToo easy. Sunday night football, everyone watches that.” �śWell then ask something more personal.” My voice was curt and tight. This wasn’t rocket science. Zach looked at his hands on the table, thought for a moment, then raised his gaze to mine. �śWhat do I take in my coffee?” �śTwo sugars,” Kipp answered quickly. �śTwo sugars.” The answer seemed to surprise Zach, but as quickly as the reaction came, it was gone and he was deep in thought. A moment later, he asked, �śWhat was my last girlfriend’s name?” �śHe doesn’t have girlfriends.” �śYou’re gay,” I replied. Zach’s eyes went wide. �śPardon me?” Kipp burst out laughing. I shrugged. It was the logical assumption. �śWell, he said you don’t have girlfriends so I thought it meant you were gay.” Kipp continued to laugh, but eventually settled down. �śHe plays not stays.” �śOh,” I said in understanding. �śYou’re the player type are you?” Suddenly, I had a real sense that Caley and this cop would get along quite well. Just as my best bud knew my type, I knew hers all too well. She’d be smitten over Mr. Muscles and the two could play each other to death. Zach’s eyebrows furrowed deeper. I could see his disbelief had begun to crack. �śWho was the last woman Kipp took to bed?” The question made my stomach tighten. Hearing of Kipp’s lovers sent an unhappy ping down my spine. Ignoring that bit of silliness, I glanced at Kipp for an answer. He stared at me curiously, which made me wonder what he was looking for. I nodded and waved my hand for him to get on with it. He finally blinked then said, �śCandi.” It only took a second before my laughter erupted. �śCandi! You cannot be serious. You slept with a woman named Candi? What was she, a stripper?” �śThere is nothing wrong with the name, Candi,” Kipp dignified, shifting in his chair as if he was uncomfortable. �śShe was a nice lovely lady.” �śI bet she was a nice lady...to you.” I laughed harder. �śCandi, that’s priceless.” Slowly, I began to wipe the tears of laughter from my eyes and looked over at Zach. He sat frozen solid, his eyes wide in bewilderment. My mouth immediately clamped shut, no trace of a smile on my face. Zach leaned in forward. His gaze now focused and steady. �śOn the last cold case we solved together what was found with the body?” �śNo one else knows this other than the cops who worked the case.” Kipp’s voice lifted with excitement. �śTell him, it was an old antique doll.” Mirroring Zach’s movement, I leaned in and met his gaze dead on. �śA doll.” One second I was sitting, the next, I was being dragged by the arm from the room. Kipp laughed hysterically behind me. �śI told you, we’d get them to believe.” Within seconds, I was out the front door of the station, thrown into the passenger seat of a car. �śHey! What the hell?” I struggled to sit a little more comfortably as Kipp suddenly appeared in the backseat. Zach glanced at me, his look stern and fierce. �śTell me everything and do it now.” *** � Chapter Five � The drive through Memphis went by quick since Zach tore the hell out of the street travelling at warp-speed with his car. Now, standing outside the modest bungalow, I glanced around a couple times, surprised to see that Zach lived in such a suburban neighbourhood. Especially, considering his garden looked well-tended. �śCome on,” Zach said, snapping me out of my wonderment. Following him up the porch steps, I waited for him to unlock the door. He opened it and waved me in. I stepped through the door to find an open concept modest home―gray painted walls, bamboo hardwood floors, sleek contemporary black leather couches with matching stainless steel coffee table, which only heightened my surprise. But something else left me flabbergasted. The neatness, the order and lack of dust. I was unable to hold back my shock. �śYou live here?” Zach shut the front door and walked past me. �śNo, we live here.” �śWho is we exactly?” �śKipp and I.” Zach nodded toward to kitchen. �śYou want a beer?” �śSure do.” A hundred of them to wash away the past hours sounded even better. As I settled on the couch, I was pleased to note neither laughter nor tears were on the brink. My found strength came from the fact that on the drive over, I was able to catch Zach up to speed on the past events, and he never doubted a word of it. Feeling less crazy was a good thing. �śWhat about this place surprises you?” Kipp asked from the leather recliner across from me. �śThat it’s clean.” �śPardon?” Zach called out from the kitchen. �śI was talking to Kipp. He was wondering why your home surprised me.” Zach was smiling when he came out from the kitchen holding two frosty beers. �śA good surprise?” He handed me a beer. I nodded, taking a big gulp from the bottle, almost sighing in pure pleasure as the crisp taste swept through my mouth. I lowered the bottle and shrugged. �śIt’s really nice. Just surprised me, you have such good taste.” Zach downed half his beer then brought the bottle down, wiped the remnants away from his mouth. �śNot me.” My head snapped to Kipp, a warm smile greeted me. �śYou did all this?” �śI did.” Dammit, I was being too obvious. My interest was showing right on my face, I was sure of that. Nothing about him should interest me, but darn it, it was. And the look on Kipp’s face said he knew it and enjoyed it. It only left me aggravated. I scowled at him. He grinned. �śSo...” Zach took a seat next to me on the couch, drawing my gaze away from Kipp. He pulled a bag onto the table then extracted out a large brown expandable file folder. �śYou found something without telling me?” �śI didn’t find anything out,” I retorted. Zach grinned as he lifted his gaze from the file to me. �śYes, I know that. I wasn’t talking to you.” �śOh.” I gave a nervous laugh, feeling like a complete fool. �śRight―you were talking to Kipp.” �śGo to the witness report,” Kipp instructed, clearly ready to get this show on the road. I sighed deep in preparation for an exhausting game of telephone. �śHe wants you to look at the witness report.” Zach shifted through the file folder until he lifted out a thick stack of paper stapled together. �śAll right here it is.” �śPage thirty.” I took a sip of my beer before I conveyed, �śFlip to page thirty.” Zach did so and read down the page as he ran his finger along the words. Minutes later, he glanced up. �śAm I supposed to see something here?” I shrugged, unknowing. �śI have no idea.” A smile played at the corners of Zach’s mouth. �śI didn’t think you would.” What was I missing here? He was looking right at me asking the question. I looked around a few times before I met his gaze, confused. �śThen why are you looking at me when you’re asking?” Zach laughed and shook his head in disbelief. �śBecause I haven’t the faintest idea where Kipp is.” �śCrap, sorry.” I giggled. �śI keep forgetting that.” I pointed to the leather recliner across from us. �śHe’s right there.” Zach followed my gaze, his eyebrows furrowed. �śI would just like to point out how incredibly fucked up this is.” His gaze stayed glued on the recliner as he asked, �śWhat did you see that I don’t?” �śHer best friend said on the day before she was declared missing, she saw Hannah coming out of a house on Allandale.” A little tinge zapped in my heart. Kipp wasn’t only sexy as sin, he was damn good at his job too. Thoughts of just how intriguing he was becoming to me kept my mind busy for a moment. I grabbed my beer and took a sip to wash away these feelings which were going to land me in heaps of trouble. When I lowered the bottle, I realized nothing had been said in a while. �śWhat?” I asked, glancing between Zach and Kipp. Zach sighed a very tired sound. �śI did not hear what he said.” I giggled, both in nervousness that I was letting my mind run away with silly thoughts, and also because I kept forgetting Kipp was a ghost. �śSorry, I’m not used to this. I’ve never shared a conversation before.” I cleared my throat, feeling the burn on my cheeks. �śHannah’s friend said she saw her coming out of a house.” �śI said more than that,” Kipp snipped. Rolling my eyes at him, I looked back to Zach and added, �śRight, she came out of a house on Allen.” �śAllandale.” �śAllen...” Zach started. I raised my hand to cut him off. �śAllandale.” Zach grinned. �śNow that makes more sense since Allen isn’t a street here.” Shrugging away the knowledge my listening skills sucked, I glanced at Kipp who winked. �śI thought this might be an easy thing to do, but with you, apparently this is going to be frustrating.” My smile came quick with attitude, just to dig at him. His sly grin sent a shiver of something naughty through me. Realizing what I had just done, I clamped down on it and looked away. Jesus, now I was flirting with him. Oh this was getting sick, mentally unstable sick. �śI’m taking it you looked into the house?” Zach broke the awkward moment. I peeked out of the corner of my eye to see Kipp’s gaze remained on me. Not like I needed to look, I could feel his eyes all over me. My breath held until he looked at Zach. �śIt’s a safe house.” My head snapped toward him, the lingering steamy feelings resolved. �śA safe house?” �śA safe house?” Zach quipped. Kipp nodded. I nodded, lost in this conversation. Shouldn’t a safe house be a good thing? Judging by the distressed expression on Zach and Kipp’s faces, it wasn’t. After a long silence, my curiosity couldn’t be stalled. �śAnd this is bad because?” �śThe only way she’d go into the house was if a cop was with her. There was no reason why Hannah would have needed to go there. Her record is clean. She was a good kid. It was for personal reasons, I am sure of that.” I understood the implication of his words. �śYou think a cop murdered her?” Kipp inclined his head, a solemn expression flashed across his face. �śIt was where my thoughts were heading, yes.” �śWhat did he say?” Zach demanded. My focus stayed glued on Kipp, I just couldn’t look away. The thought that one of his own was capable of this pained him. An agony I wished could be erased. With a clenched heart, I glanced at Zach. �śHe said it’s a cop.” �śShit,” Zach exhaled. Silence filled the room while he stared down at the floor, as if he were trying to sort everything out. He finally looked up and glanced toward the recliner. �śI know now why you kept this a secret, but from me?” His expression filled with anger. �śI could have gone with you.” �śIt was just a hunch, I truly didn’t believe it could be true. I didn’t expect to be shot when I got there. I was just going to nose around.” �śHe was only guessing,” I responded. �śHe didn’t think it was dangerous.” I added for his benefit. �śI never said that.” Kipp’s voice held a slight hint of annoyance. Zach slammed his beer on the table, leaned in toward the recliner. �śWell look what your guess cost you,” he spat. �śIt wasn’t his fault!” I cut in. Kipp sighed in exasperation. �śI never said that either.” �śReally? It wasn’t his fault?” Zach growled. �śIf he hadn’t gone out there alone, he wouldn’t have been shot.” �śCan I...” Kipp began. �śNo you cannot.” I snapped my gaze back to Zach. �śHe was obviously protecting you by not sharing this information. And let me just tell you, he has annoyed me beyond belief these past days to get me to come and talk to you. So, you need to suck up your pride.” �śI...I�Ś” Zach started. �śYou miss him, I get it.” I sighed, calming my tone. Suddenly I was aware I had just lashed out to protect Kipp. Never had I felt so protective of a ghost before. Maybe I was just at my wits end with all this, that theory sat best. �śHe doesn’t have much time here. So, don’t waste it being angry about what happened in the past. Be nice to him.” Zach stared at me for a moment longer then a smile grazed his lips. I was surprised to see the wonders it did for his stern look. His eyes softened and even his body seemed to settle in response. He glanced back over to the recliner. �śAll right, I’ll leave it be, but it still doesn’t mean you’re not a stupid fuck nut, Kipp.” Kipp laughed. Right then, my cell phone rang. I dunked my hand into the back pocket of my jeans then looked at the caller id. �śUh no.” I groaned as I flipped open the phone and held it away from my ear. As expected, Caley’s voice came roaring through the speaker. �śOh my God, where are you?” she shouted. �śI have been calling for hours. You tell me there is a ghost in your room, you scream like a banshee, and then you turn your phone off. Do you know what you’ve put me through these last few hours? Seriously, do you know?” I brought the phone back to my ear. �śSorry, I was at the cop shop. I only just turned it back on a bit ago.” Right now, I was glad I did. I suspected Caley had called non-stop these past few hours. With what I had gone through in that room, having Caley bugging me too, would have tipped the scales. Silence fell over the phone, then Caley whispered, �śAre you in some kind of trouble?” Trouble? Hell, I was in a shit load of it. I was stuck in some sick attraction to a ghost. But I wasn’t in the kind trouble she was thinking of. �śNo, I’m...” �śWhere are you?” Caley interrupted. �śI’m coming over.” Quite abruptly, the phone was ripped from my hands and Zach pressed it to his ear. �śThis is Zach Foster of the Memphis Police Department. Tess is fine and with me. She will contact you when it is appropriate to do so.” I laughed. �śOh dear, this is going to be good.” �śWhat...” Kipp started, but as Caley screamed at Zach, his mouth clamped shut. Zach paled before my eyes. I had a hard time not laughing. Caley never responded well when she was told to do something and it didn’t matter this man was three times her size, she’d level him. �śMiss...” Zach tried, but it just earned him another round of insults and screaming. After her rampage, Zach cleared his throat then said, �ś2500 Cedar Bark Cove.” Apparently, that was when Caley hung up on him since he lowered the phone and grinned at it. He raised his head and handed me the phone. �śWho was that?” �śCaley, she’s a good friend of mine. She doesn’t understand the meaning of no.” �śI gather,” Zach commented. Then, he glanced back to Kipp. �śYou were obviously onto something when you went there.” It seemed he had moved past his anger and settled back into detective mode. �śWhy else would you have been shot?” �śExactly.” Unable to hear him, Zach continued, �śIt’s hard to imagine a cop is capable of not only shooting you, but also killing Hannah. Did you get a look at him?” �śNo, he hit me from behind.” I shook my head in answer. Zach rubbed his hands along his face. �śSo, that is why you were at the safe house then? The old lady next door heard the shot, called the cops and they found you there. ” He lowered his hands, looking back to the recliner. �śNo one could make any sense out it.” He gave his head a shake and made a tired sound. �śThere are hundreds of cops who work within the department. I’m not sure how to even begin to narrow down the list of suspects.” �śFind Hannah,” I butt in. �śWhat?” Zach and Kipp said in unison. �śGo find her ghost,” I explained. �śShe is likely still hanging around because her case hasn’t been solved.” Of course, it was only a guess but the ghosts I’d met always died in a tragic way. Murder fell into that category. Kipp’s eyes widened with anticipation. �śI hadn’t even thought of that.” Before anyone could respond, the front door slammed open and Caley stood in the entrance pissed. I wasn’t at all surprised to see her here so quickly. She actually didn’t live far from this end of town and I was sure she drove like a mad woman to get here. Which is why I loved Caley. So protective. �śThank God, you’re safe.” She rushed forward. �śThey haven’t hurt you, done weird tests on you, have they?” I laughed at the fury on her face. �śNo. I’m fine.” Caley was about to say something when she caught sight of Zach. She stopped dead in her tracks and ran her gaze across his body. She gave one of her pageant smiles as she met his gaze. �śWell, hello there,” she said in a purr and stepped toward him. �śAnd who might you be?” �śYou coming with me?” Kipp’s voice suddenly came from beside me. Stay here and watch Caley and Zach flirt, or go find a ghost? It wasn’t a hard decision. �śI’m coming with you.” I walked to the door before Kipp could even respond. �śJust get me the hell out of here.” If I had to sit and watch these two lusting over each other, I might take the gun out of Zach’s holster and blow my head off. *** � Chapter Six � The front door shut behind me and I let out a long, deep breath. �śThank God, we’re alone.” Kipp grinned with a playful edge. �śYou want to be alone with me, do you?” My cheeks burned at the insinuation. I’d meant to get away from the two horn-dogs. Hadn’t I? If only I had the chance to solve that mystery. Kipp stepped in closer to me. The coldness of his ghostly form created goose bumps across my skin and my breath froze. "I enjoy that I make you blush.” His voice came out in a warm purr which eased the cold air around me. Immediately, I snapped away from the spikes in my temperature and forced my gaze to the ground. I couldn’t allow this to go any further than it already had. Who knew if he was acknowledging my attraction to him, feeding off it to pump himself up―he could be one of those types of guys or if his advances were due to a mutual attraction. Whatever it was, it needed to end. Kipp chuckled, a deep throaty sound. �śAre we on our way then?” I glanced up, nodded and headed off. I only got five steps down the street before his voice came again. �śMind telling me where you’re off to?” My feet came to a dead halt. I stood staring at the tree-lined street, the night was dark but the streetlights were lit enough in order not to see a soul in sight. I glanced back over my shoulder, slightly annoyed and a little bit embarrassed. I’d been so wound up from our conversation moments ago, I hadn’t realized I didn’t have the slightest clue where I was going. �śComing back then?” Kipp’s tone was well amused, teetering on mocking. A few curse words echoed in my mind before I walked back to where he stood. �śWhere to then?” He grinned, cool and collect to my fluster before he collected himself, his expression serious. �śIf you were a young woman who was murdered, alone and afraid, where would you go?” Good question. Where would I go? Wander? I doubted that. To a friend’s house? It was a possibility. But one place stood out more than the rest. �śI’d go home.” Kipp gave an approving nod. �śMy thoughts exactly.” �śYou know where she lived?” He’d worked the case, I suspected he knew everything about the life of Hannah Reid. �śJust a few blocks away.” He nodded down toward the left, in the opposite direction I’d been going. �śThat way.” He may not have been laughing at me directly, but the look in his eye was. Not responding to it, I spun on my heels and walked down the street. �śYou choose interesting company,” Kipp said, catching up with me. It wasn’t something I hadn’t heard before. �śCaley can be a bit much at times, but she’s a good friend.” Kipp gave a knowing glance, a hint of a smile on his face. �śApparently, since she practically broke down the door to make sure you were all right.” �śShe’s got more balls than an entire soccer team.” I laughed and gave a slight shrug. �śNo one’s perfect, I take her for how she is.” �śAs she does you.” I stopped and gave him a firm look. �śWhat’s that supposed to mean?” I wasn’t about to stand for insults from a dead guy, no matter how my body reacted to him. �śYou can’t deny you’re interesting yourself.” �śInteresting how?” My eyes narrowed. Just where was he going with this? Kipp seemed amused by my glare, although he never laughed. �śFor starters, you see and talk to ghosts. She doesn’t seem to have a problem with it.” He’s lucky. He came very close to a second death. �śLike I said, no one’s perfect.” �śI may have to disagree with you there.” His gaze focused on mine, exposing a little of himself and not hiding anything. Oh yes, I heard and saw what he was implying. He’d also answered a question I’d been wondering. The attraction was clearly mutual. I wouldn’t deny it made me want to smile or say that I felt the same about him, but I needed to be strong here. Indulging in this line of thinking would get me nowhere. Diverting the conversation, I changed the subject. �śDo you like being a cop?” I asked as I began walking back down the street. Kipp said nothing as he fell into stride with me. At the end of the street the road forked and he pointed to the left down Grand Cedar Lane. Continuing on, we made our way down the street, and he finally answered. �śI loved being a cop.” I exhaled in relief from his reply. That silence was awkward, I was glad it was over. Besides, I found him intriguing and wanted to know more. �śTell me, what did you like about the job so much?” �śNot sure if I can answer it.” He looked at the ground before he raised his eyes again to answer. �śJust loved the adrenaline, the mystery in it, and the end result of catching a killer.” It was hard for me to understand since it seemed dangerous and depressing. Even I could get pulled down in the dumps if I’d help too many ghosts in one month. The loss and sadness they suffered was pretty soul draining. To see what the family goes through, the despair they endured, it wasn’t the job for me. But part of me could understand some of it. �śSo you liked the rush of it?” Kipp inclined his head, followed by winked. �śA rush only equalled to one other thing.” I ignored his drawback to regions south, focusing the conversation away from naughty land. �śDo you have any family...?” That started a conversation which lasted the rest of the walk as I learned all about his life. Little things that made him who he was―younger sister, parents still married, his days at college, what he did for fun, baseball, hockey, golf―just an endless amount of information about who this man was. There was nothing said that came up in a big red flashing sign shouting avoid him. If anything, it only made my resolve to have no interest in him harder to fight against. Kipp’s definition of a few blocks and mine, were way off. The walk took an hour, but it passed in a quick flash. My questions were endless as were his. I was sure we could have talked the entire night, but the conversation ended when we arrived at Hannah’s house. A two story, middle class home with two-car garage on the front that was located on Elysian Drive. �śCome on, let’s see if she’s here.” Kipp waved me forward, headed off toward the home. �śAre you forgetting something?” I stated, not moving an inch. He glanced back at me, his eyebrow arched in apparent confusion. �śNot that I am aware of.” �śI ain’t dead.” I squeezed my arm to show I was still flesh and bones. �śI can’t go lurking around someone’s house. I’ll likely be arrested. You go and bring her out here.” Kipp flashed a smart-ass grin, �śShe probably won’t believe me unless you are there.” He waved me forward again. �śBesides, you’re with a cop, why worry?” My arms folded across my chest, to prove my stance on this. He couldn’t win every time he wanted me to do something. �śBecause the cop is a ghost and can’t do a damn thing to help me if I get cuffed.” His eyes hooded, a smoulder formed within them, his grin a sultry promise. �śCuffs�Śnow that sounds like a great idea.” A blush rose to my cheeks. I opened my mouth, but nothing came out. Closing it, I hated the fact that he knew how to get at me. Every time I disagreed, he used something sexual to lure me in. Dammit, I hated having a weakness. I huffed, glared and walked forward hearing him chuckle behind me. Approaching the side of the house, I glanced around a couple times but the neighbourhood was quiet. It wasn’t like we could walk up to the door, knock, and ask to speak to Hannah. I scooted toward the house and hid behind a large bush next to the home. A window above me glowed with light. I stood on the tips of my toes and peaked up into it. Two people watching television and eating popcorn sat on a large plush pumpkin color couch. They were not who caught my interest. Sitting on the matching loveseat was Hannah. I recognized her from the newspaper articles I had seen on her disappearance. As I said, the case was everywhere, so it was a little hard not to remember her. Pretty, longish blonde hair, blue-grey eyes―the classic girl to bring home to mom. �śI’m going to go in and get her,” Kipp said next to me. I nodded. �śI’ll wait here.” Without another word, Kipp melted through the wall. He only took two steps before Hannah jumped to her feet, shock reanimating her features. Slowly but surely, her face went through wild emotions as Kipp apparently filled her in on the current situation. His hands moved as he told her the tale of craziness that was now my life. After a little while, Kipp pointed toward the window and Hannah followed his gaze, her eyes connecting with mine. Doing the only thing I could think of, I smiled and waved. I lowered my hand quickly, feeling like a dork for doing it. She waved in return, then looked back at Kipp as he said something to her in order to grab her attention. Moments later, they began walking back to the wall. I lowered from my tippy-toes and stepped away, still remaining hidden behind the bush as they joined me outside. Now, face to face with Hannah, my stomach took a hit and a lump formed in my throat―she was just so young, so many milestones left to hit and all of her dreams had been stolen, ripped away in a flash. Strength was needed here if I was going to make it through this. I dug down deep before I spoke, �śHi, Hannah. I’m Tess.” Her eyes grew wide in astonishment. �śYou can really see me?” I gave her a look which said just how silly that question was. �śI am talking to you am I not?” �śIt’s just so weird.” I could have laughed. She thought I was weird because I could see and talk to her. She was the damn ghost. Moving on, I asked the appropriate question. �śYou’ve stayed here with your family all these years?” �śI didn’t know where else to go.” Hannah’s voice shook. �śI didn’t want to leave my parents and they didn’t want to let me go. So, I stayed.” My throat tightened, a wave of sadness washed over me. I craved to hug her, but couldn’t. She’d melt right through me and seeing it would only frighten her, I wasn’t about to go and do that. It looked like I wasn’t the only one who felt that way. Kipp grabbed her and took her in his arms. Apparently, being both ghosts, they held the ability to touch. A revelation which surprised me. I had no idea they were capable of such a thing. How much was there that I didn’t know about how this all worked? Kipp overpowered her while he hugged her tight―Hannah was just so small, so fragile in his arms. Instantly, I witnessed the relief it gave to her. She sank into him and grabbed onto his shirt as she began to sob. It’d been five years since she was murdered. Five years alone, without anyone to talk to, without a single moment of warm touch, and within her sobs the pain was obvious. Kipp whispered soft words and ran his hand along her hair as she cried against his chest. My heart swelled with warmth. Everything about this man was perfection. Not only did he have the looks and personality, he had a heart―one which broke in this moment. His eyes were drawn together in pain while he continued to comfort her. It was clear being a cop wasn’t just a job for him. He cared for the victims of the crimes he was assigned to and he wanted to set right the tragic path their lives had taken. Awareness struck me. It all made sense. The reason why Kipp hadn’t crossed over had nothing to do with finding the killer for his own death―he stayed to save Hannah’s young soul. Many minutes passed before Hannah backed away from Kipp’s embrace, wiped her face, and sat on the bench which rested in the gardens. As I sat in beside her, Kipp knelt in front of her and asked, �śAre you okay to talk about it now?” Hannah nodded and took a long breath. �śYeah, I’m okay now.” �śDo you know what happened to you?” Her expression did what most ghosts’ did when presented with the question, she appeared puzzled. �śI know I was killed, that I’m dead and know the man I loved was the one who did it.” �śThe man you loved?” Kipp repeated in apparent shock. I understood his surprise. To be a man Hannah was emotionally involved with, that was unexpected. Unable to hold back my surprise, I asked, �śWhy?” �śHe was angry at me,” Hannah replied. Kipp reached up, took her hands in his, his face showed nothing less than complete sympathy. �śWhat made him so angry?” Hannah’s eyes sank in despair, her voice almost pleading. �śI wanted to be with him, share a life with him. We were soul mates and meant to be together forever.” �śBut...” There was always a but. �śHe was married.” Kipp released her hands, his eyes slightly widened. �śSo you were having an affair?” �śIt wasn’t an affair, we were in love.” Hannah’s voice was sharp. Then, she softened again into immeasurable sadness. �śHe was angry because I wanted more from him.” Silence filled the air, my mind worked hard to wrap around all this. Kipp finally broke the stillness by saying in a quiet tone which held a strong determination, �śWho did this to you, Hannah?” Hannah wiped the tear trailing along her cheek. �śHis name is Percy Mills.” Kipp rubbed a hand across his face then his gaze rose to mine. �śI’ve never heard of him.” His eyebrows furrowed in thought, his teeth nibbled on his bottom lip, then he looked back to Hannah, focused. �śCouple questions.” Detective Kipp was down to business. �śFirst off, what does he look like?” �śHandsome,” Hannah replied. Kipp urged her on with a wave of his hand. �śI need more than that.” �śEarly thirties, clean cut, blond business-like hair and the most stunning blue eyes known to man.” �śBusiness-like hair?” I repeated, trying to imagine just what it looked like. Donald Trump, the President, Steven Spielberg―it was impossible. Hannah nodded as if we were off our rocker and used her hand to demonstrate the look. �śLike proper, never a strand out of place.” �śHalf of the population.” Kipp shook his head clearly frustrated. �śWas he a police officer?” �śNo, he told me he worked for an insurance company in Southaven.” Which made zero sense. �śSo, he was an insurance adjuster?” What a career for a killer to be in. Cop seemed right. He’d be around death, seen it and would be able to hide behind evidence to stay concealed. An insurance adjuster? Hell no, I didn’t believe that for one second. Hannah nodded. �śHow much did you know of Percy?” Kipp asked. �śI knew everything about him,” Hannah answered in a high whimsical tone. �śWe were in love.” All right, she loved the guy. Got it, but he killed her. I couldn’t get past the fact she had yet to show a single moment of dislike for the man who ended her life. Something was off here. Kipp obviously didn’t care, or had yet to notice, since he continued his line of questioning. �śDo you know where he lives?” �śNo, he never told me where he lived.” He seemed to consider it for a moment, then continued, �śHave you ever seen his wife, learned her name, anything of that sort?” Hannah cringed a little at the mention of wife. �śHe kept us completely separate. I didn’t ask about his other life. Our life was the only one I was concerned about.” By now, I’d be screaming at her to tell me something, but Kipp remained calm. �śDid you ever go to his workplace?” Hannah shook her head. �śNo, he would never let me. With his wife and all, he said he didn’t want to hurt her.” She sighed. �śHe had such a gentle heart.” �śWhat the hell happened then!” It was more curiosity that compelled me to say something. The idea someone loved her enough to let her believe they were soul mates, then up and kill her? It didn’t add up. Tears glittered on Hannah’s cheeks, her voice sounded trapped in her throat. �śI had enough of the secrets. I told him I wanted him to leave his wife.” �śThat didn’t go over so well,” I replied, more as a statement than a question. Hannah snorted. �śObviously not.” Kipp gave me a little grin, amused by my remark, before he focused back on Hannah. �śDid he say anything to you when he was hurting you?” �śThat he was sorry and he loved me, but I would ruin everything for him if I said anything.” Her eyes darkened as the tears vanished. �śHe just kept saying he loved me.” Finally, a little reaction from Miss Blinded-By-Love. Like come on, not only did this guy claim to love her, but he killed her. Scum didn’t come close to describing this man. It was about time I could let a little of my true feelings on the matter out. �śHell of a way to show it,” I snapped. Hannah glanced down to her hands, her lips pursed as if searching for an answer in all this too. I knew it was pointless. Ghosts only remember what they need to cross over and anything that has taken place since their spirit materialized. She’d remember the death and reasons why she died because she needed that information to move on. The only way to help Hannah find these answers was to continue with this. Now, I felt more inclined to help. With the pain on her face, I began to see it more as an obligation to free her from this purgatory she was trapped in. Most of the time, I helped ghosts out of annoyance to leave me alone. To help one out of a need to set them free, that was something I’d never thought would come. �śI know your family wants to bring you home,” Kipp said in a much softer tone than I used moments ago. �śDo you know where you are buried?” �śIt’s dark, just so dark,” Hannah whispered, never looking up. �śDo you remember the last place you were?” This was the million-dollar question. The one that brought them back to the moment they arrived. It was the way to open the gate in order for the ghosts to remember what they needed so they could complete their journey. Hannah thought for a moment, then in the same whisper said, �śWe had spent the night together and he was driving me home afterwards. I got angry and we fought. He pulled off the road and dragged me into a forest.” She glanced up, misery weighed on every part of her. �śIf I never got mad, never said anything�Ś” Silence fell around us. All I kept thinking was I wished there was something I could tell her. Some reason for it all, but I kept coming up short of a good answer. Clearly, Kipp had other things on his mind since his next question was nowhere near where my thoughts had been. �śSomething doesn’t add up here. There is no way you could have gone to the safe house if he wasn’t in law enforcement.” �śLaw enforcement?” Hannah repeated. �śYou said that before, but I’m sure he’s not a cop.” Kipp shook his head, disagreeing with her. �śI don’t think he was being truthful with you.” Hannah’s expression swept deeper in sorrow, and coming from a woman who’d been murdered, it was grave sorrow indeed. �śHe lied to me?” �śNo one else would have access to the key but there is no Percy Mills on the force.” Kipp hesitated as his eyes took on a curious look. �śDid you ever see identification? Anything with his name on it?” Hannah wrapped her arms around herself and glanced at the ground as she shook her head. �śWhen you went for dinner he never pulled out a wallet?” I asked, doing a little digging of my own. Sometimes ghosts needed a push to remember things. It wasn’t always right there in their mind and on occasion just asking a question brought a memory to the surface. Hannah didn’t even look up to shake her head again. A moment passed, then she gasped aloud, which startled me enough to jump. �śAll of it was a lie.” She glanced up at us, her eyes were void of emotion. �śNone of it was true.” Kipp said nothing to her outburst, looking at me. �śWe need to go back and tell Zach about this.” His focus went back to Hannah. �śListen Hannah, if you need to find us, come to 2500 Cedar Bark Cove...” Before he could finish, Hannah lunged off the bench, fists tight, face taut with anger. �śFuck him,” she ground out. �śFuck him and the white horse he rode in on.” She then proceeded to walk toward the street. �śWhere are you going?” I exclaimed. Hannah glanced over her shoulder with an icy glare. �śI’m going to hunt him down then I’m going to haunt the fucker.” *** � Chapter Seven � Back at the house, I may have been a wee bit grateful Zach had actually gotten Caley to leave. I could only wonder what promises he made to her. Nonetheless, I was glad she wasn’t around to hear any of this. Caley may love me, even believed what I could see, but this would be too much for her to take. I was happy I didn’t have to explain it all to her. I plopped back down onto the loveseat and looked at Zach. �śHannah told us she was having an affair, told him she was going to go public and he killed her because of it. She said his name is Percy Mills. Do you know him?” �śPercy Mills? Never heard of him. He certainly isn’t part of our precinct.” He pondered that a little more then finally said, �śNope, I’m sure he’s not a cop in Memphis, I would have heard the name before.” How could he be so sure? There had to be thousands of cops who worked the Memphis streets. �śYou have a photographic memory or something?” Zach smiled. �śI never forget a name. Call it good police work.” Hence, why I’d make a terrible cop. I couldn’t remember a name even after introductions. Faces, that was different. But names, it was my downfall. My neighbour had told me his name three times and I still couldn’t figure out if it was George or Gary―maybe even Gavin. Kipp cut in, pulling me from my non-important thoughts. �śWhich is why I suspect Percy Mills is not his real name.” �śMaybe he’s not a cop though, just someone who broke into the safe house,” I suggested. �śHow can you be so sure it’s not something like that?” �śIt’s impossible.” Zach moved along, obviously understanding the conversation despite the fact he only heard my side of it. �śYou need a code to deactivate the alarm. The department would have been notified immediately if someone had entered without it.” My theory burned out as to who else could be responsible. I continued to look for something more plausible, not wanting to believe what they suggested could be true. But there it was, staring at us all dead in the face. Instead of pointing out what neither of them really wanted to accept, I just helped them along. �śSo that means...” Both their expressions were a mask of disappointment, then at the exact moment they both lifted their gazes to mine and said in unison, �śIt has to be a cop.” I laughed, unable to stop it. When I received strange glances, I clarified my inappropriate laughter. �śYou both said it at the same time.” �śHa.” Zach exclaimed. �śGlad to know being a ghost hasn’t changed you―still stealing my lines.” �śYou do that often?” I asked, more interested than I cared to admit. Personal matters should have no place in this conversation. As much as I told myself that, again it seemed when it came to Kipp, I spoke without thinking. Which was entirely new for me. I always thought everything out―had to since I was around ghosts all the time. I needed to be aware of what I said―careful. Now though, my mouth worked before my mind could even process. Just another thing which made this whole situation with Kipp unusual. Before I could think more on it, Zach nodded. �śAll the bloody time.” �śBack on subject,” Kipp interrupted, clearly more focused than we were. �śIt’s the only assumption. There is just no way he would gain access to the safe house.” When Zach still laughed, I cleared my throat. �śOh, you need to stop that now. Kipp is back to detective mode.” Zach immediately clamped his mouth shut and gave his head a bewildered shake. �śI’m taking it she did know of him―tales of lies,” he asked, staring up to the ceiling as if Kipp were up there.� � I giggled and pointed to the chair. �śHe’s not up there, he’s sitting on the chair―and yes she knew nothing about him that could identify him.” Zach rolled his eyes. �śOh for fucks sake.” He looked at the chair without bothering to repeat the question. �śWhat are you thinking, bud?” �śI think we should rule out your theory. Even though, I suspect we are on the right track here, we need to be sure―for all our sakes―that every other possibility is mulled over.” He couldn’t be suggesting�Ś As I searched his eyes, the determined set of them, showed my thoughts were right on the money. Just to be sure, I voiced my hesitation. �śPlease tell me I’m not going where I think I am going?” Kipp grinned. �śThat’s right, sugar lips! We’re going back to the scene of the crime.” *** The middle class bungalow sat on a tree-lined street―completely dull, without any warmth and plainer than a home built by Mennonites. �śThis is a safe house?” �śWhat did you expect?” Zach replied, glancing back at me after he opened the screen door. �śLuxury?” Yeah, that’s exactly what I thought. At least something that was worth living in. This shithole wasn’t suitable for a dog, let alone people. I looked around at all the creepy-crawlies which made the front porch their home. �śIf I was put here, I wouldn’t be happy.” �śThey’re put here for protection,” Kipp said, drawing my gaze to his. He gave me a firm unwavering look. �śNot for a vacation.” �śThey’re...” Zach started. I raised my hand to interrupt him, not wanting to hear a repeat since as of late I’d suffered a world of that. �śAlready heard it.” Zach grinned before he turned back to the door. He bent down, coming closer to the security panel which sat next to the door handle. After he entered in the four-digit code, the door beeped and opened. He stepped through, opened it wider for me, then flicked the lights on. �śOkay, so you weren’t kidding about this house being secure,” I noted as I followed him in. �śThis house has more invisible security than you could even wrap your pretty head around.” I snorted, ignoring the pretty remark. �śYeah, I gather that.” The air felt charged with electricity, even a little hum sang through the stale space. Apparently, my assumption of a trespasser was wrong. No one could break into this place. I suspected if you dared to open the fridge, spotlights would shine down on you and the walls would do that morphing thing into a steel cage to enclose you. After my Mission Impossible fantasy, I spun around to meet Zach’s gaze. He stood with the door open, staring at me. After an awkward moment, I asked, �śAre you okay?” He nodded toward the door. �śCan I close it?” Um, where was he going with this exactly? �śAnd you’re asking my permission...because?” He rolled his eyes, very irritated if the grimace on his face had anything to say about it. �śHas Kipp come into the room?” Laughter nearly escaped my mouth. He was talking about something that was irrelevant. �śYou do realize he can walk right through the door. He doesn’t need you to open it for him.” Zach’s jaw clenched, his eyebrows drew together in unhappiness. �śI’m not making Kipp walk through a door.” �śStop goading him, he’s not like you,” Kipp chastised. I laughed a little then said, �śHe’s in.” Zach grumbled something incoherent and closed the door with a loud slam. With that funny business over, I glanced around. Bought and decorated in the seventies― retro vomit coloured couches and fake wood coffee tables decorated the tasteless house. Dust lined everything and the smell of something dead lingered in the air. �śLordy, how long has it been since someone used this place?” �śA while,” Zach replied. �śLike in the last decade?” I swiped a path of dust off the coffee table with my finger. �śSome romantic gesture, to bring Hannah here―how lame can you get?” �śMy sentiments exactly,” Kipp responded, tone repulsed. �śI’d suspect it was the perfect place to take her,” Zach said, walking away from us to head for the bedroom. �śNo one would see him here.” �śWell, we know she was truthful about loving him.” Kipp’s eyebrow arched. �śWhat makes you say that?” I spied a disgustingly large spider who worked on his web in the corner of the ceiling. �śBecause no woman―no matter who she is―would come to a place like this unless she loved him.” �śMaybe it was the only place he could take her. Obviously, he wanted to keep their relationship private,” Zach called out from the bedroom. �śStill, private is one thing.” I grimaced as the stench of mould filled my nose. �śDown right grungy is something else entirely.” Kipp inclined his head in agreement. �śGot something here,” Zach yelled out. Quickly, Kipp and I rushed into the bedroom only to encounter a complete mess. Vodka, whisky, an obscene amount of empty alcohol bottles littered the floor around the bed. �śAppears someone is feeling a bit of remorse,” Zach said. �śYa think?” I retorted sarcastically. �śJesus, he’s drowning himself in booze.” Part of me was actually glad to see this. At least, Hannah wasn’t delusional, there was love between them. It didn’t make the situation better but if the whole thing was a lie and the guy had just used her, it would have been worse. She’d had something good, experienced happiness before her death, even if it was for a little while. It gave a certain type of peace. Zach reached into his pocket, pulled out a pen and a paper bag. He lifted one of the bottles and placed it inside. �śI’ll get this to the lab to see if they can lift any prints or obtain a DNA sample. If we hit a dead end here, this might be the break in the case we need.” I’d seen television and to me, this seemed like the break which just solved the case. �śUm...sorry, I know I’m the non-detective here, but doesn’t DNA mean case closed?” Zach sealed up the bag then stuffed it and the pen back in his pocket. �śYou shouldn’t believe what you see on T.V.” He shook his head as if it annoyed him my thoughts went there. �śIt takes weeks―sometimes months to get a DNA sample confirmed. Then, who is to say we have the sample on file to match it to the suspect.” �śWe will if it is a cop,” Kipp cut in. �śIf we are assuming right, and this is a cop, the match will be found. It’s part of protocol to give a DNA and fingerprint sample when you join the force.” Zach continued not hearing Kipp’s response. �śOh, okay, well that’s great then.” The excitement in my voice was evident. �śWe can go then right? I’m all done here?” Both men shook their heads at me. My happiness plummeted. �śBut you said, you’ll have the cop’s DNA so what else do you need?” �śAs Zach said, it will take months...” Zach began, �śYou will...” I raised my hand and indicated to him that Kipp was already talking. His words drifted off to silence as Kipp continued. �ś...to see if a match is found. It’s best for us to continue on here and see where it leads us. Meaning...you’ll get more time with me, beautiful.” I blushed, and hated he could cause such a reaction in me. I tore my gaze from him, and looked at Zach. �śOkay, well tell me what I can help with so we can get out of here? It stinks and I feel my allergies acting up from all this dust.” I even sniffed to prove my point. Kipp chuckled. I refused to acknowledge he recognized my dodge, kept my focus on Zach awaiting his response. Zach rubbed his own nose with the back of his hand. �śSince the air is bothering you, why don’t you and Kipp go and search outside. See if anything stands out.” Great, more alone time with Kipp, just what I wanted. But the idea of being out of this retched place was too appealing to pass up. �śSounds good to me.” I spun on my heel, nearly walking straight through Kipp. He had come up right behind me and I hadn’t even noticed his presence, which surprised me. I always felt a ghost’s nearness. That meant, I was forgetting just what he was. Kipp grinned playfully. �śDespite your attempts to deny it, it makes you all too happy to spend some private time together.” My cheeks burned deeper. Not wanting to know the answer to that question, I dragged my gaze from his and walked out of the bedroom. I couldn’t allow this to go any further than I already had. Being attracted to him was one thing, allowing him to flirt with me in order to incite me was something else entirely. He’s a ghost. He’s a ghost. He’s a ghost. Maybe if I kept saying it, I would remember it. Even as I repeated it again and again in my mind, I had the inevitable feeling, it was a battle I was going to lose. *** � Chapter Eight � Five windows, all sealed shut, and no hint of trespassing on either side of the house, nor the front as we searched the outside. I followed Kipp around to the back. It was getting late, a dark sky with bright stars sat above and my body felt the weight of it. I took a quick look at my watch and found it was ten o’clock. My body was heavy and exhausted in every place, including my eyes. As a cold shudder ran through me, I gasped and took a step back. �śSorry. I didn’t realize you stopped.” Kipp stood, his head bowed, silent. I walked around to face him. The despair that ran along his face was unmistakeable. I came closer toward him in concern. �śIs everything okay?” �śIt was here.” He slowly looked up at me and pointed to the ground. �śThat night...this is where...” I followed to where his finger pointed and along the cement patio was a large stained area which could be only one thing. Blood. The one thing that couldn’t simply be washed away with soap and water. As the image flashed horrifically though my mind, understanding dawned. �śOh, this is where you....” My voice trailed off as a large lump formed in my throat. Kipp knelt down, placed his hand on the darkest area. �śI feel...” He peered back up. �śIt feels strange to be back here.” Yeah, I bet. To come back to the place where you lost your life couldn’t feel good by any stretch of the imagination. �śAn unhappy memory happened here, of course it wouldn’t be pleasant.” He shook his head. �śNo it’s more than that. For the first time since I woke up, I feel as if I’m in the right place.” �śThe right place?” I repeated. Huh? His eyebrows furrowed, deep in thought. Then, in a blink of an eye, apparently the answer came to him and his eyes widened with clarity. �śHome.” Now, he’d lost me. I was confused, the right place and home, made no sense at all. The meaning of home came with happy feelings. I thought it unlikely coming back to the place where he died would create such a feeling. �śWhat do you mean home?” �śIt’s the same feeling you have when you walk through your parent’s front door. You know, the one that says you’re right where you belong.” It’d been some time since I had that feeling, but knew where he was going with this. Maybe more so than most because it was what I’d been longing for these past years. I took in a deep breath to hide all emotion and answered him, �śYeah, I know the feeling.” �śIt’s just like that―that finally I’m home.” His expression turned pleading. �śWhy am I experiencing this?” The million-dollar question. I’d never heard of a ghost who shared a similar experience as this. In each and every case they’d felt nothing except the initial reaction to their death. Then, their focus was on what they needed to do to move on. �śMaybe it’s because some of you remains here, at this place, because your life was taken here.” The only assumption I could come up with. This was the first time I’d returned to a place where the person’s life was lost. It could have been the same for all of them. He stood in one swift movement then stepped closer toward me. I gasped as the coldness of his presence washed across me. His movement was so fast, supernatural for sure, and I had yet to experience that. For the most part, ghosts appeared normal―his move simply wasn’t. �śHoly crow! How did you just do that?” I exclaimed. He arched an eyebrow. �śDo what?” �śMove like...” I paused in an attempt to find the right word, �śsomething out of a scary movie.” He gave me a reproved look. �śI’m a ghost, Tess.” I nearly rolled my eyes as I snapped out my retort. �śAh, yes I know this.” �śThe rules you live by are no longer mine.” This was unsettling. Truth be told, the idea of ghosts didn’t scare me because they appeared somewhat normal. This whole spooky nonsense was freaking me out. �śSo, you can move quickly?” �śAs quick as I want.” �śWell...what else can you do?” His gaze ran over my face as he studied me. �śThere’s more, but I don’t want to frighten you.” �śI’m not frightened,” I defended. �śNo?” He raised his hand then trailed his icy fingers under my eyes. �śIn here, I see fear.” I moved away from his contact. �śI’m not saying it’s not a little strange, but I can handle it. So spill it.” Kipp shook his head, apparently dismissing my wants completely. �śThere must be a reason I feel this here.” I wasn’t about to stop the opportunity by changing the subject. Living in denial sounded all too good to me. I may have wanted to appear tough, but we both knew I was scared silly. And as much as I was slightly interested to know what else he could do there was good reason he wasn’t telling me. This time, I left it alone and followed his lead. �śLike I said before, it’s probably because this is where your life ended. With every ghost, they remember things more when they return to a certain place or see something which sparks a memory. Maybe returning here is something you needed to do ...” My words froze. A move that didn’t go unnoticed, the knowing look in his eyes told me he noticed my hesitation. The idea of him moving on now was unsettling in every sense. Flatly ignoring the reaction, I forced the words out of my mouth. �śTo move on.” I was pleased to note my voice came out strong and steady. He grinned at my obvious evade of the feelings which threatened to steal my breath. �śBut I remember everything from my life.” In response to his sexy grin, I took a step back in order to put a little distance between us. �śYes, you do.” �śThen your theory isn’t much of a theory at all.” He took a step toward me again, bowing his head closer to mine. �śThere is more here.” As much as he talked about the situation here, I had the feeling this was about something that ran far deeper. The meaning behind �Śthere is more here’ had nothing to do with the blood on the cement ground. No, this had everything to do about us. Ignoring that too, I pushed away from anything personal. �śYeah, well, you’re asking the wrong person. I only know what I’ve seen so far. Why you’ve had this reaction here is beyond me. All I know is this...” I pointed to the cement, �śis where you died.” Kipp stepped back and his gaze followed my finger. �śYes, that it is.” Damn, all the heat surrounding me had forced me to become harsh. Again, my reaction to him was so unusual. I was never so blasé with a ghost, unaware of what they were going through. My words came out without a single thought in my mind. �śUm, I mean...” His gaze met mine and he held his hand up for me to stop. �śI don’t need you to beat around the bush, Tess. Neither you, nor I, have time for it.” This was true. It elevated some of my guilt for being a stone cold bitch. It still didn’t mean I understood any of this or could give him the answers he was looking for. One thing I did know was asking questions always worked. It helped the ghost remember things hidden to them. �śWhy do you think you are feeling like this?” He mulled over it, glanced around a couple times then turned back at me. �śIt’s as if there is an unknown strength here.” He arched his eyebrow. �śDoes that make any sense?” No. But I couldn’t very well say that to him, not right now. �śYes.” He drew in a deep breath as he apparently tried to sort it all out. I stayed silent while I watched him struggle, wishing I could ease the situation, help him to find the answers he was seeking. I couldn’t. I was as helpless in this as he was. Finally, after many minutes, he spoke. �śI’m not quite sure if I can put it into words, but there is a great amount of energy I feel right here, in this very spot. It’s in the air, along my skin, fills me when I breathe, and it fuels me with adrenaline.” This was just bizarre. No ghost had told me they’d had a reaction like this. Most of them were so distant to the world around them, which is why they always drove me batty. Self-absorbed wasn’t a strong enough word to describe them. Leaving my thoughts behind, I voiced my confusion. �śI’ve never heard anything like that before.” His expression filled with shock. Apparently, my confusion left him completely flabbergasted. �śNever?” I shook my head slowly. �śNo, never.” �śThe feel of it is very powerful.” He inhaled deeply, his eyes closed. �śI feel alive.” My eyes went wide and my voice came out in a soft whisper. �śAlive?” Whatever I expected him to say next, it definitely hadn’t been that. The word was wrong coming from his mouth. He was so far from being alive, and the comparison left my mouth wide open. �śThat’s it―that’s what it feels like.” His eyes snapped open to meet mine, full of excitement. �śIt was hard to place at first. But that’s what it is―I feel more alive right now than I have since...I died.” This was beginning to turn into the Twilight Zone. Ghosts were ghosts and they did what they had to in order to move on. This had nothing to do with moving on, but felt like self-discovery. The whole thing made me extremely uncomfortable. �śWhy...why do you think you are experiencing all of this?” Kipp shrugged. �śHow should I know? You’re the expert here.” First off, nothing about this deserved a smile. It was the definition of odd. And he was right, too. I was the expert, but now I was anything but. I felt turned around, upside down with nothing to support me. For once, I had no answers. �śSo where does that leave us then?” He winked as the grin on his face returned. �śLeaves us―one stupid ghost with one pretty lady.” My blush would have risen, if Zach hadn’t chosen that moment to interrupt us. �śFound nothing inside.” By his angered expression, I couldn’t quite tell where his thoughts were leading him. �śIs that a good or a bad thing?” Zach shrugged. �śA bit of both.” I looked to Kipp, who said nothing. My gaze came back to Zach, who also said nothing. �śWould you care to elaborate?” Zach ran a hand through his hair, leaned up against the house and put one foot up on the brick wall. �śIt’s good we’ve ruled out your theory―it’s bad that our assumption of this being a cop is right. Have you found anything out here?” I gave Kipp a sideways glance in question. Did he want to tell Zach about what he felt here? Kipp shook his head. Enough said. �śNo, just like you, we found nothing out here.” Zach yawned, stretched, and pushed himself off the wall. �śFigured as much.” He quickly rubbed his hands across his face as if to wake himself up. Silence grew heavy around us. I wasn’t about to wait for one of them to break it. I had enough for one night, thank you very much. �śSo...what are we going to do now?” I hoped the answer to that was to go home. I felt the tiredness Zach suffered, too. It had been an exhausting couple days and these late nights during the week were something I wasn’t used to. I was a stickler for being in bed at ten, up at seven. My body was used to a routine and this murder business was messing me up. After Zach bent down to stretch his muscles some more, he stood, then looked straight at the ground. �śWhatcha thinking, Kipp?” I laughed, even if it was under my breath. Zach had resorted to looking down now instead of making a fool of himself. Truth was, I couldn’t really blame him. Without knowing Kipp’s location, he did look rather silly when he talked to thin air. I thought it wise to help him out instead of him looking ridiculous. �śHe’s right in front of me.” Zach raised his head and smiled his relief. �śFrom Hannah’s description, I think we are safe to say that neither Max nor Eddie is involved with this.” Kipp brought up a good point. �śSpeaking of that, why would you suspect either of them? Shouldn’t you know and trust the people you work with?” �śYou never take chances,” Kipp responded. �śSuspected who?” Zach asked. �śWhen I first told Max and Eddie about this, Kipp didn’t want me to say anything in case either of them was involved.” Zach gave a firm nod. �śBest way to proceed.” Of course, they’d stick together like glue. I didn’t expect any different, but it didn’t mean I was going to stay silent and not voice my side of it. �śI can see Eddie, but Max?” I had to laugh at the idea of it. The man was old enough to be her father and he certainly wasn’t Sean Connery either. �śHe’d be robbing the cradle a little bit, don’t you think?” �śWomen make strange choices sometimes,” Kipp responded, just as Zach said, �śSome women have interesting taste.” �śIf you all say so, but I happen to disagree with you both. No women in their right mind, who are Hannah’s age, would be chasing after Max’s tail.” Zach grinned. �śMight have to repeat that when we get back to the station, I bet Max would get a real kick out of hearing he’s less than appealing to women.” Insulting Max was the least of my worries. Something he said hit a bad note. Back at the station? They couldn’t be thinking�Ś My gaze swept over to Kipp’s. The implication of what was coming was right on his face―a little pleading, a lot of sorry, with a big chunk of demanding. �śOh no. I’m not doing that again.” �śIt won’t be as bad.” Kipp smiled in a reassuring way, soft and delicate, that in most cases would sink me to my knees and turn me into a love sick woman. Not tonight. Not now. Not after all the crap I’d already been put through. I put my hands on my hips as I gave Kipp a serious stare down. �śDo I look stupid to you?” �śNo.” �śReally? I find that hard to believe since you just fed me some serious bullshit.” �śTess...” he began. I shot my hand up in front of his face to stop him. I didn’t need―or want―him to give me some lame excuse. �śThey didn’t believe me before. In fact, I seem to remember them laughing in my face. What makes you think they are going to believe me now?” Kipp opened his mouth to speak. Again, I waved my hand in his face to stop him. �śAnd furthermore, what makes you think I’m about to agree to this?” Kipp paused for a moment, studying me. Was he waiting me out to see if I was going to stop him this time? Annoyed, I waved him on. His reassuring smile returned. Way too easily if you ask me. He nodded toward Zach and gave me a knowing glance. �śJust as we did with Zach, we’ll get them to believe.” �śIt won’t be as hard this time,” Zach added, missing Kipp’s comparison. �śI believe you now. Once they hear that, it will make them more open to the idea. I am sure of it.” He pulled out his cell phone from his pocket and turned away to place the call. I continued to stare at Kipp, not really knowing what to say. But I did know I wanted to say something that involved every single curse word known to man. Kipp looked far beyond amused. His gaze never left mine as Zach started rambling something on the cell phone. I was too something to really hear what was being said. It was hard enough going through all that the first time around. Repeating the event was not on my to-do list. Zach’s voice beside me interrupted my thoughts. �śMax and Eddie will come back to the station. They’ll be there in twenty so best we head off and meet up with them.” Without waiting for my response, he spun around and walked away. Kipp finally let his amusement show in a full out grin before he turned and followed behind Zach. I hadn’t moved an inch and planned on keeping it that way. �śExcuse me?” I called out after them. Kipp glanced over his shoulder. �śYes.” Zach continued walking, his laugh was quiet but his body shook from the force of suppressing it. My anger doubled. My hands clenched on my hips so tight, they dug into the skin. I didn’t care. No part of me wanted to go back to circus city and become a stage act once again. �śWhat part of I’m not going there don’t you get?” Kipp let out a long sigh then came back to where I stood. The air around me instantly dropped a few degrees and my breath shortened from the effect of it. His head bowed down toward me, a soft expression filled his face. �śNow Tess, I’m going to tell you two ways of how this is going to go.” He raised one finger. �śOne, you are going to get in the truck and willingly come to the station with us.” He held up another finger. �śTwo, you and I will stand here and argue about this. You’ll try and prove your point and I’ll listen because frankly I enjoy the sound of your voice. But in the end, you’re going to end up with that sexy ass of yours in the truck.” My eyes narrowed. The corner of his mouth lifted slightly, his eyes twinkling in laughter at me. �śYou tell me, which one seems like a better choice for you?” I thought about that, long and hard. The idea of arguing actually appealed to me, which was strange. But there it was. I liked squabbling with him, liked to see the amusement run through his eyes when he saw steam coming out of my ears. Deep down, I took pleasure in the knowledge that he enjoyed me. With that, came the flashing indicator I needed to go against my better judgement and do the exact opposite. Acting on instinct only landed me in heaps of trouble when it came to Kipp. My resolve about him hung on by a very fine line, and if I didn’t change my ways soon, that thread was going to break. Something I just couldn’t allow. �śFine.” I walked by him. �śBut let me just point out again, you owe me.” I turned back to him and glared. �śIf you get to Heaven, you better put in some good words for me with the big guy. After all this I deserve to be named a damn Saint.” Kipp arched an eyebrow, dead serious. �śNow that will not be a problem.” *** � Chapter Nine � Back at the police station, I stood outside the interview room, feeling hesitant, apprehensive and more than irritated. I didn’t want to go into the room and be humiliated all over again. I glanced at Zach pleading. �śMust I do this?” �śI have to bring you into the case so I can work with Kipp.” Zach gave me a firm look. �śI can’t do that without having the okay from the Sergeant. Plus, we need to bring Max up to speed.” �śBut Hannah will find him,” I retorted. �śLet’s just go find her.” �śWe haven’t been able to locate the suspect even though we have the murder victim’s statement,” Kipp intervened. �śShe knows nothing of him. Everything he told her was a lie. She’ll be running around in circles.” �śShe won’t find him,” Zach said at the same time. �śBut...but...” I searched my mind for way out. �śAll the cops think I’m nuts.” �śThat they do, but we’ll change their minds.” Zach winked. �śDon’t worry about that.” �śBesides, it’s either this or my persuasion techniques to get you to agree. Would you like me to replay the night in the bar?” �śGod no,” I snapped, and even I could hear the doubt flowing off my words. Kipp’s wicked grin said he heard it too. My stomach fluttered, I clamped down, tightened my abs and bit the inside of my cheek to focus elsewhere. What was wrong with me? He was a ghost, not some guy I could have a round of fun or start a relationship with. I needed to stop feeling these little inklings toward him. Now. �śWhat?” Zach asked, confused at my snippety remark. I waved away his question. �śI was talking to Kipp.” �śAll right then.” Zach closed his hand around the door handle. �śYou ready?” �śNo,” I replied adamantly. He laughed, said nothing and opened the door. The door breezed open and I groaned loud enough to be heard. Max and Eddie were seated, both with looks of pure amusement shinning on their faces. Even so, I could see the exhaustion through their caffeine laced expressions. Being so later at night, everyone had already had one hell of a long day. �śThanks for coming back,” Zach said to Max as he gave me a push forward to take a seat at the head of the table. Max gave a firm nod with a slight curve to his lips. �śNot a problem.” Of course not. I groaned again. Everyone wanted to see the freak at the circus show. I plopped down into the hard plastic chair. My gaze flickered between the two men while I waited for someone to say something. Minutes later, the room remained silent. I met Kipp’s amused stare, ready to hit something. �śAm I supposed to say something here?” �śAre you talking to him?” Max asked, which caused Zach and Eddie to laugh. A nasty retort rested on the tip of my tongue. I drew in a deep breath and forced diplomacy into my tone. �śYes, I am. He’s standing right there.” I pointed toward Kipp. His eyes held an expression that could melt ice on the coldest of days. Intense. He was trying to project the importance of them believing me, but the look made me wonder if this was how he looked when he had other intense thoughts on his mind. The longer I stared, the more I reacted, which made me to squirm in my chair a little. I’d never been so attracted to anyone in my life. For a moment, I examined him. What was it about him that made me react and think like this? Yes, he was drop dead gorgeous, but I’d seen men like him before, even dated a few and never had I responded this way. My body lived in a constant state of arousal around him. Was it from our first encounter and my mind still lingered on the sound of his dirty talk? Or was it because he was the first ghost I was attracted to and the hands-off rule made him more tempting? I didn’t have the answers. The only thing left was the knowledge that it was there and undeniably strong. Suddenly, I realized I was ogling and snapped out of my thoughts. I blinked and when my vision refocused, Kipp’s gaze remained locked on mine, only deeper. Apparently, I hadn’t seen anything to what those amazing eyes could do because now it was obvious he enjoyed the way I had watched him. My suspicions were answered, I wasn’t alone in this attraction judging by the smoulder which reached his eyes, the tension set in his jaw. He demanded I acknowledge my feelings toward him and almost dared me to respond. Unable to deny it any longer, not wanting to deny myself of this intense attraction, a playful grin rose to my lips. I spun my chair to face him, uncrossed my legs and answered his challenge with one of my own. My skirt rose high on my thighs. Kipp’s gaze snapped toward my lace panties. His body tensed, his eyes burned and when he glanced back up to me, the look I was beginning to adore had shifted into something needy and hungry. Abruptly, someone cleared their throat. Breaking my gaze from Kipp’s captivating eyes, I glanced over and was hit with awareness, as if I’d just taken a polar bear swim. Every gaze was on me―Max with wide-eyes and Eddie just looked lustful. I laughed nervously. �śSorry.” Determined to keep my gaze off Kipp, I focused on Zach and crossed my legs. I took a deep breath to settle myself, aghast at what I’d just done in front of these men. What the hell was wrong with me? Hiding my blush was impossible, but was glad to note, my voice held strong, �śWhere were we?” �śThey asked if you were talking to him,” Zach answered before he cleared his throat again, a sound that was rapidly followed by a low chuckle. �śWhich apparently, you were.” My blush deepened. What I wouldn’t give for an escape route at that moment. I was becoming one of those ridiculous women from romance novels, all smitten and unable to control myself. To make matters worse, Kipp said huskily behind me, �śI’d like to...” Apparently, he’d moved closer toward me. I’d been so focused on the heat raging in regions south, I never noticed his cold presence. The cold breeze danced along the back of my neck. I swatted behind me, so he’d catch the drift and forced myself to remain deaf to anything else he was about to say. I wasn’t going to go there again. �śAll right, let’s just get to this,” Max said, breaking the awkwardness that filled the room. �śWe have questions. You will answer them and until we are satisfied you are being truthful, we’ll keep you here.” He gave me a measured look. �śUnderstood?” �śGod yes, please, get on with it.” Not only because I knew how not fun this was going to be, but also I needed―wanted―to get away from Kipp. Space between us was important right about now, I had to get my head screwed back on straight. �śHow long have you been able to see and talk to ghosts?” Max asked the first question which turned into a hundred more. After an hour of questioning, I’d been right on the money. At first, they questioned my ability, made me run through the car accident I chose to forget. Then, it was on to how many ghosts I’d helped, what I did for them, and so on. From there, it was all about Kipp. I learned his entire life story, which was the one part of this I hadn’t minded. There was nothing told I didn’t like which was almost a shame. A flaw would have been nice to see so I could stop this ridiculous behaviour. The problem was he didn’t have one. After that, they questioned me about the Reid case, the explanation of Kipp digging deeper into the case and his suspicion the killer in the case was also the one who shot him. Now, the random questions were tedious and personal. I had my arms crossed on the table with my chin resting on my hands. �śYour wife’s name is Cynthia,” I answered Max’s last question, counting the little specks of black dots on the fake wood table. �śI’ve got this one,” Eddie shouted. �śWhere is my birthmark?” �śOn his balls.” �śBalls.” I replied, then realized what I’d said. I raised my head, glanced at Kipp whose eyes hadn’t wavered from their position on me. �śHow do you know his birthmark is on his balls?” �śHe told me,” Kipp answered, not at all uncomfortable with his admission. �śYou all talk about birth marks on each other’s balls?” I laughed. �śThis is what men talk about?” Men thought women got personal with each other, what a strange piece of knowledge to know about someone else. Kipp shrugged, dismissing my amusement. �śIt came up one night.” I shook my head in disbelief, then glanced back at their stunned faces. Finally, it happened. �śOh, thank God. You believe me.” A burst of renewed energy swept through me. Max nodded and let out a long, deep breath. �śThere is no way for you to know these things.” He released another heavy sigh. �śI suppose we have to believe you.” Zach gave me a wink. �śTold ya we’d get them to believe.” �śKipp,” Eddie called out. �śI miss ya, bud.” His young face looked aged with sadness. The sandy tone of his hair looked as if it needed a wash, and the dark circles under his brown eyes spoke of the truth of his words. Glancing away from him, I glimpsed at Kipp, who gave me a soft smile. �śTell Eddie I’m doing all right.” �śHe misses you too,” I replied to Eddie, my eyes stayed glued on Kipp’s, waiting for his reaction. Kipp arched an eyebrow. �śI never said that.” I only smiled in return. Just because he was a tough, show-no-emotion type of guy, didn’t mean I had to comply with it. Eddie looked devastated over the loss of Kipp so my words would console him more. He’d just have to deal with my little word changes. Since this whole adventure began, I felt in control again, something which gave me eons of strength. Feeling mighty from their acknowledgement of my ability, plus my little jab at Kipp, I scooted the chair back. �śSo, I can leave now, right? I’m exhausted and I’ve already called in sick today. My boss will kill me if I’m not in tomorrow.” �śNo.” Max replied. �śNo?” I repeated, a bit lost and more than a little puzzled. �śNo what? No, I can’t leave or no, I’m not exhausted?” �śNo, you can’t work.” Max clarified. �śGive me the company name you work for, I will inform them you will need an extended leave of absence.” �śExcuse me?” I snapped, outraged at his dominance. I wasn’t a part of this police force. He may have the authority to boss people around here but that didn’t include me. �śWe will need you on this case,” he answered with certainty. �śThe only way to talk to Kipp is through you and since he seemed to be onto something, then you will have to stay with us.” Okay, hold up. He dismissed my refusal. Apparently, the choice was not mine. Like that was going to stop me from trying to find a way out of this. �śBut I’m not qualified for a job here.” �śYou are now.” Max pushed his chair back and stood. �śI’ll do up the paperwork. You can come on board as a specialist in...” he hesitated a moment then finished, �śwell, I haven’t quite figured that one out yet, but I’ll come up with something.” He gave me a firm look and added one to Zach. �śNow then, tell me what you know.” Two incredibly long, boring hours later, my elbow rested upon the table with my hand up against my cheek―even a daydream couldn’t save me from this. Zach, Kipp and I went through all their findings, right down to minute details since day one of their investigation on the Reid case. As the conversation went on, Max’s disbelief deepened. When Zach finished, Max leaned back in his chair and let out a deep long breath. �śUnbelievable―fucking unbelievable.” �śBelieve it.” Zach rubbed a tired hand across his face. �śOne of our own shot Kipp.” Eddie slammed his chair back and began to pace the room. �śDirty mother fucking cop.” Max’s bothered expression turned to one of confusion. �śAll this you’ve told me led to Kipp being shot?” He glanced to the chair, which I revealed was Kipp’s location. �śAnd you’re sure your attack is connected to the case?” Kipp nodded, then snorted apparently realizing no one could see him except me. He met my gaze. �śTell him what we know.” I didn’t need him to clarify further as I looked back to Max. �śPercy Mills.” �śPercy Mills?” Max repeated. And here we go again, ridiculous repeats that were becoming my new best friend. �śYes, Percy Mills―he’s the killer and also an alias.” Max’s eyes lit up. �śSo, Kipp had discovered all this and thinks this is why he was shot?” �śExactly,” I replied, not needing Kipp to answer. I was sick and tired of repeating myself―over and over again. I didn’t need his words to relay the information. I’d heard it more than once, I was a damn expert on this case now. �śAnd that’s what got him shot.” Kipp looked to me, annoyed. �śI never said that either.” �śYes, I know,” I replied with a sigh, �śbut I knew the answer, so why wait? Repeating myself all the time is like that annoying kid who always mocks what you say. It’s not fun.” Either he liked I took control, or enjoyed my snappy response. The smile which grazed his lips was more than aroused, it was full on lustful. Oh no you don’t. I wasn’t going to embarrass myself all over again by melting in front of everyone. No thank you. Without pause, I focused my thoughts on what it’d be like to stand nude in the Arctic. It did just the trick. But as a deep throaty chuckle escaped Kipp, it only made me work harder to keep the heat at bay. Bless Max for speaking up. He looked down to his watch. �śIt’s close to midnight.” He rubbed his hands across his tired eyes, then slowly raised his gaze to Zach. �śI suspect there’s more you need to say here?” Zach nodded. �śRight then, come back in the morning.” He gestured toward me with a nod. �śBring her with you. Eddie and I will come on board on this case.” He stood from his seat, then began to walk toward the door with Eddie following behind. After the men exited, I glanced between Kipp and Zach. �śI wasn’t kidding. I want to go home.” �śNot home,” Zach replied, with a firm shake of his head. A pout rose on my face. I huffed, crossed my arms across my chest and even stomped my foot. Yes, I was capable of such things when sleep deprived. �śWhere then?” Kipp’s expression swept with raw intensity, he gave a sexy grin. �śTo my bed.” *** � Chapter Ten � My eyes had to be wrong. I stared, drooled and stared some more. Reaching up, I gave my eyes a hard rub, blinked a couple more times but the image before me remained. �śYou have wanted this, haven’t you?” Kipp’s voice was rich with lust. I could only nod in response, incapable of speech. He stood at the end of the bed, naked and erect. His upper body made up off wide shoulders that melted away to arm muscles no one could deny were a piece of God’s handiwork. His chest bulged with two impeccable square muscles. I craved to run my hands along his flesh as my gaze made its way down to the hard lines of his abs. My entire body quivered in excitement as he started forward. Apparently, he’d wanted this too. His thick dick was so hard it never moved from its eager position while he made his way closer toward me. He met the edge of the bed, placed a knee on it and I forced my gaze away from his spectacular erection. The grin on his face could do more to me than his body ever could. Instantly, a rush of pure need took me to a place my mind couldn’t process or contain. I raised myself off the bed, took his delicious face in my hands, which seduced every part of me, and only a hairsbreadth away from his mouth, I purred, �śMake me forget why it’s wrong to love you.” �śI will do that and more.” He closed the distance between us to capture my lips, regardless I knew something was off here. How could he touch me? Of course though, I didn’t much care. I was lost. Taken by the way his wet tongue swept across mine in slow steady movements, his soft lips moulded with mine as our mouths mirrored each other in gentle embraces. He raised his hand to the back of my head, angling his to deepen the kiss. His breath was rough through his nose as his lips became firmer, guiding me to feel the strength―the presence―that lived within this man. I felt it, not only with his mouth against mine, but in his muscles as I moved my hands from his face and ran them gingerly along his biceps, sending each one to flex in response. He began nibbling through the kisses, taking my tongue into his mouth to suckle it, and with a deep groan, began to devour me as if he had waited a lifetime to have my body just like this. My only response was to whimper in need for him. Never had I felt this kind of arousal from kissing. The longer it went on, the more I wished he’d get on with it and take me until I saw stars. But as he drew away from my mouth, I met his ravished gaze and an undeniable truth lived within. He had only just begun. His desire to taste me, kiss me, have me in his arms had consumed him, and now that he could do so, he wouldn’t waste it on hurried wants. With his eyes focused on mine, he began to move slowly down my body. I shuddered, my breath froze in my throat as my nipples tightened with a desperation only his mouth could relieve. As he nestled above my chest, his playful grin declared he was going to entice me to the point of insanity. He leaned down and with a light lick on the swell of my breast, I was sure I was already there. I reached up, took his hair in my hands and squeezed, begging him to come at me harder. To end the anticipation that tightened my thighs and made my clit throb in need. He let out a low growl as he took a little bite of my skin then with the softest touch, licked my nipple. My back arched as a gasp of pleasure raged from my throat. Kissing his way over to the other breast, he repeated the move. Now, I was trembling, quivering in requirement. My body burned as my stomach fluttered with butterflies. �śNow I have made you ready,” he said, huskily as he dove in to suck a nipple into his mouth. He placed it between his teeth, squeezed gently, but it was just the relief I needed. I tangled my fingers within his hair as I held him there and forced him to give me more. Holding my breasts in his hands, he switched between them, pleasuring each one deliciously. It left me moaning, gasping and lifting my back off the bed. He was confident―sure about his movements. There was no gentleness about him. No hesitation. When he acted, he did so with poise and an arrogance that I surely believed he was due. Not until he had his fix, and I was flushed with uncontrollable arousal, did he leave my breasts. I watched him kiss hungrily down my stomach and I didn’t hesitate in his advance. I widened my legs, drew them back against my body, and gripped my knees to spread myself wide, allowing him full access. He didn’t waste a moment and placed his hands under my ass, raised me up and angled my body up to him. Then, he licked from the bottom of my pussy all the way to the top. I almost died, but that would end this which was something I didn’t want. Instead, I gasped a sound which was a reflection of my burning body. He took my little nub between his teeth and when it settled, he sucked. I shot into a sitting position as I blasted into an orgasm that sent me quivering in all the right places. When my breath returned and my mind was able to hold coherent thought, he placed his hand against my stomach, encouraging me to lie back down. When I complied, he released my clit, and with quick flicks, he teased it. Already sensitive from my release, I was left squirming, sucking in deep breaths of near laughter. With his hand still on my stomach, he held me still. His other hand, he slid one finger inside of me. I moaned with pure satisfaction. This is what I needed, the force of something driving me, filling me. I wanted more. He didn’t deny me and removed the finger to replace it with another. When it glistened with moisture, he returned both inside of me. His fingers were thick, strong and just as large as any man I’d taken to my bed. He began stroking as his eyes burned. The blue was darker and the brown was all but gone as his huge pupils spoke of his desire. I moaned along with his movements. Little noises that spoke of the happiness I felt having him here, looking at me like this. A knowing grin rose to his face, and he curled his fingers. A loud gasp of surprise escaped my mouth. In one swift move, he found my G-spot, a place I thought was foreign to me. I thrust my hips, demanding he play with it. �śNo one has pleasured you right,” he said, equal parts haughtiness and satisfaction. �śDon’t stop.” I grasped the sheets with my hands. He put more weight against my stomach with his hand, angled my body further as he kept his fingers deep inside of me and flicked the sensitive spot. I let out shuddering breaths, squeals�"everything that screamed of a complete loss of control. �śM...m...more,” I begged. His eyes burned deeper, his jaw clenched tight as he took it upon himself to send me to Heaven. He slammed his fingers inside with the palm of his hand banging against my nub. My entire body tightened and my head arched back as I sucked a breath down deep into my chest. My legs extended, my toes pointing straight out as my body teetered between life and death. Not until I felt the damp sheets beneath me, did a sense of life return. My breath whooshed out as my eyes fluttered open. My body was heavy, tingling with erotic fulfillment. I blinked slowly. Kipp was now above me, his gaze needy and wanting as he knelt between my legs. He placed his hands on my knees, bending my legs back along my sides to open for him. Then, he took his erection in his hand and I glanced at it. The tip was buried inside of me. I’d never seen anything so beautiful. Against the sculpted lines of his abs, the hairless skin made his dick look all too appetizing. I craved to taste it, touch it, but the strain it obviously suffered made that impossible. He couldn’t wait any longer to have me. With a slow, gentle movement of restraint on his part, he slid the rest of the way in. His eyes closed, his moan ruminating through my soul. It spoke of a truth that what I felt, he felt too and his expression shined of rightness. I raised my hands to cup his face as he began to move oh-so-slow. His mouth parted. His breath warm across my face as his eyes filled with lustful intentions. More than that, something far deeper, a gaze of love bore into mine. Without a single inkling of warning, he slammed into me with the full strength of his body. I screamed a sharp sound of surprise and almost in pain of intense pleasure. He slid out only to slam back into me, harder this time. He waited only a moment for me to gather my breath before he did it again. Again and again. The bed banged against the wall. I began to shake to my very core as he tormented me with his body. I was panting, crying out, unable to do anything else. Not capable to focus on one thing, powerless to make sense of the sensations I was experiencing. Everything was forced alive. My body was connected by a warm glow of energy. An enlightened state of being. �śNot yet,” Kipp growled, breaking me away from my state of bliss. I let out a sharp cry as he abruptly stopped his movements. �śI will finish you,” he reassured. �śBut I want to watch you ride me when you do.” I didn’t hesitate. I lunged forward, pushed him back so he was sitting, climbed on top of him, took his erection in my hand and lowered down onto him. With his hands on my hips, I wrapped my legs around him, held onto his shoulders as he began to rock my body against him. Slowly, at first. �śFeel how hard you make my cock.” Kipp’s growl deepened, his hands tightened further around my hips. God, I felt it and more. �śGo harder,” I demanded, meeting his gaze in a challenge to make good of his promises. A slight curve of his mouth, the slow hooded look in his eyes, told me I might just regret my words. He began raising me to the very tip of his dick then slammed me down on top of him. His dick now lay against the perfect place inside of me and each thrust rubbed against my G-spot, played with it, stimulated it. My eyes began to water. I wanted to lower my head, melt into his embrace so I could save myself from the intensity capturing me, but I couldn’t look away from him. Not now, with his eyes raging with more passion than I thought lived in one person. Not when he looked at me as though he was undeserving of me. Definitely not when his eyes said when he was done with me, he’d only want more. He rocked me harder against him, the hardness of his dick growing in size. �śTess,” he said in a shout. �śKipp.” My shout equalling his. Suddenly, everything around me started to blur. His movements became urgent, his expression tight and filled with the tension of his impending release. �śTess.” His voice was loud and demanding―not at all lustful. Wait! What? I shot straight up out of bed, glancing around. I tried to make sense of what just happened, attempting to settle my heart which was beating out my chest. Kipp loomed over his bed, his hand reached out as if he wanted to touch me, but he immediately pulled it back. �śYou okay?” Concern was heavy in his tone. �śWhat?” I exhaled, breathless. �śYou were moaning and saying my name. Did you have a bad dream?” Holy shit, it was a dream. I’d heard of erotic dreams. Hell, I always wanted one, but not with the man in the dream staring at me, asking why I was yelling out his name. �śAhh...no, it wasn’t a bad dream.” Kipp’s worry settled into a smile. �śEverything all right then?” I nodded, glancing down to the bed, unable to meet his gaze, pulling my bottom lip into my mouth to bite on it. �śEverything’s fine.” �śBy the look on your face it was a good dream. Wanna share?” His tone was deep and rich. Oh yes, it was clear he knew my dream was sex related. This ghost was knocking me off my game. For years, I prided myself on the ability to show nothing on my face. But with him, it was impossible to do so. I needed to correct this problem. �śI was dreaming about my ex-boyfriend.” His expression said he didn’t believe me. The grin on his face grew. He nodded toward the door. �śJust meet us out there when you’re ready, we have to get going to the station.” �śYeah, okay, be right out.” His cold presence left the room. I glanced away from the bed to look at the clock, eight a.m. Horrified at what I just experienced, I fell back on the bed and drew the covers over my head. What the hell was that? It wasn’t the hot and heavy sex. I’d expected to have dreams like that while sleeping in his bed. It even smelled like him, which happened to smell like spring mountain soap and hunky man. What bothered me most was what I’d said. �śMake me forget why it’s wrong to love you.” Was that what was happening here? I was not only lusting after him, but beginning to have feelings for him? I stared at the darkness within the curtain of the duvet and pondered that. I was attracted to him like I’d never been to anyone else, felt little flutters whenever around him, and he could make me blush with a few short words. Then one realization formed in my mind which was a hard cold truth. One I couldn’t deny. I didn’t want him to leave. Oh damn, I was falling for him. *** � Chapter Eleven � From the moment I stepped out of Kipp’s bedroom, I kept my eyes on the ground beneath my feet. Even as I walked toward the entrance of the brown-brick police station, I never looked up. The dream and feelings were all too real. If I made eye contact with Kipp, I doubted I could hide my lingering desire and interest. �śYou sure everything is all right?” Kipp asked for the hundredth time as I followed Zach in through the main door. �śMmm hmm,” I responded, inspecting the dirt on the tiled floor. How had I allowed this to happen? I never got personal, let alone allowed myself to open my heart to a ghost. I had to fight against this. I couldn’t indulge in these feelings. I needed to force myself back into someone that resembled a sane person. Once in the station, Zach muttered hellos to the officers around him. I kept my gaze focused on the back of Zach’s heels, which suddenly slowed. I stopped behind him, glanced up just enough to see him open the door to the interview room. When I cleared the door, Max sat at the table which was stacked high with at least ten banker’s boxes. One was open and Max had a pile of files out filled with reports. He looked up from the notes to me. �śI talked to Mr. Cobb this morning. He has granted your request for an extended leave of absence.” �śWas he angry?” I asked with trepidation. �śHe wasn’t thrilled.” Max grinned. �śBut what choice did he have?” �śWonderful.” I sighed. �śHe’ll be a real joy to be around when I get back.” He’d actually have to do some of the leg work himself. He was probably already cursing me. Part of me enjoyed the thought of him staring at a computer screen lost as to how to print out documents. The other part of me, felt horrible. I was diligent and a hard worker. Leaving him with no help was not a position I would have put him in. What could I do about it now though? What’s done was done. I’d deal with the repercussions later. �śJust shake your spectacular ass at him,” Kipp said next to me, �śand I doubt he’ll stay angry for long.” �śThank you for calling him,” I said to Max, flat out ignoring Kipp’s comment. He chuckled in response. I gave no thought to that either. Max gave a firm nod, then reached out with his hand holding a card out. �śYou are a grievance specialist from here on out.” I laughed. �śI’m a what?” �śAs far as the department knows, I have brought you on to help Kipp’s fellow officers deal with their loss,” Max answered. �śBut I have no experience with that,” I retorted. Max leaned in, his gaze knowing. �śDon’t you?” Pain sent a wave of uncomfortable warmth across my body. �śI...I...” �śWhat’s wrong?” Concern filled Kipp’s tone. Realizing I was losing it in front of others, I sucked in a deep breath to hold myself together. I learned to hide my feelings involving my family’s death years ago, but whenever it came up and I didn’t expect it, the pain wasn’t so easily hidden. �śSorry.” I gave my head a shake, shedding the sadness. �śSorry, it just surprised me.” �śWhat surprised you?” Kipp asked, a little stronger now. I glanced at him with a cold firmness. �śMy family died.” �śIn the car accident?” A knowing empathic look crossed his features. Of course, he’d catch on quick, he was a cop after all. I nodded, forcing the tremble in my chin to stop. I hadn’t cried over their deaths in years, let alone thought of them. Avoiding the topic like the plague was my motto. It was in my past, I wanted it to stay there. It wasn’t really the topic which made these emotions rise to the surface, it was Kipp’s gaze on mine, the way it said, �śIt’s all right for you to cry.” The support and comfort sounded nice and all, but leaning on him was in every way a bad idea. I was in enough trouble already. Looking to him to heal my pain was not an option I wanted explore. �śI’m sorry I had to go about it that way, but it was the only explanation I could come up with for having you join our ranks. Since you have no education which relates to us, it’s easy for me to pass off that you have joined a support group which gives aid to people who have lost loved ones,” Max said. I hastily hid every emotion. �śNo, its fine, it makes sense. Really, it just surprised me.” �śYou can’t run and hide forever you know.” Kipp’s gaze was intent as before, but now, it held a rigid determination. My anger flared up. Who was he to say how I dealt with my pain? Ignoring it was how I got through my days. I’d never once dealt with it, never felt the stages of grief. Instead, I just pushed on. That was how I managed not to be medicated and it was working just fine for me. Before I could release my wrath, his voice came soft. �śI understand more than you think.” It wasn’t at all what I expected him to say next. Calm down. Don’t blow your lid. That is what I thought he’d say. Not him sharing a similar story. The anger burning my blood disappeared. �śHow?” His eyes filled with sadness as they glazed over, lost in a memory. �śMy mother died from breast cancer and my father followed a year later from a heart attack.” I had to wonder what would be worse. In my case, it happened all at once. Here one day, gone the next. To have to suffer the pain of losing a loved one on two separate occasions, I wasn’t sure I could have handled it. �śWhen?” My question pulled him away from his thoughts. He blinked, meeting my gaze steady and strong. �śTen years ago. I’ve had years to deal with their loss and it’s taken that long to accept their deaths. Trust me when I tell you holding onto the pain is not going to help you. You need to allow yourself to be sad.” Caley had said this to me a thousand times. That it was all right for me to be upset for what happened to them and I didn’t need to be strong all the time. But I never allowed myself the right, never wanted to live in the state of mourning. Just because Kipp had been through it too, didn’t mean I was going to change my mind. He needed to prove to me it was worth it, because in my eyes, ignoring it was just easier. �śWhy?” Zach chuckled. �śHow. When. Why. What’s next, who?” Kipp ignored the comment, as did I. �śIt will begin to eat you alive.” He reached up to trail a finger along my cheek. The icy touch sent a shiver down my spine. The cold wasn’t unwelcoming and gave me a moment of ease. For once, someone else understood and had been there. As much as I tried not to connect with Kipp, it was all I could do. It didn’t mean I’d deal with it like he suggested, he hadn’t proved his point. He only said he’d accepted it and that was one thing I could never do. My family was gone. There was nothing I could do to change it. If I ever let myself be consumed with that sadness I wasn’t sure I’d make it back out. To think of it, to feel it, would only leave me in a state which would need medication. I lifted my chin in defiance, staring at him with a pure intent to prove my point that how I was dealing with it was the only choice. �śYes, I can.” Then, I looked at Zach. �śCan we move along? I really don’t want to spend my entire day surrounded by stinkin’ cops.” The men laughed around me. Kipp didn’t. His expression said nothing, showed nothing; however, it was visible as thoughts stirred in his mind. Thoughts I tried to care nothing about, but it was a feeble battle. I may wish my family’s death didn’t cause a permanent ache in my heart and that I didn’t have feelings for the ghost in front of me. But both were undeniably true. I may want to ignore it, but that didn’t mean it was going to go way. And it didn’t mean I wouldn’t do what I always did―sure as hell, try to stuff it away and forget about it. I attempted to force the wall of ignorance up. I tore my gaze from his and began to walk toward the table. As I sat down, the door opened and Eddie entered, coffee in hand. �śMornin’ all,” he said, cheerful. �śI’ve got the goods.” �śA sight for sore eyes,” Max drawled. Eddie placed the coffees on the table. After taking one, he sat beside me. �śPleasure to see you again, ma’am.” I wanted to respond to his pleasantry, but was afraid if I opened my mouth, I’d laugh. Doing the only thing I could, I nodded. �śSo, Kipp is here with you?” Max said after taking a sip from the paper cup. �śOh yeah,” I burst out laughing. �śHe’s here.” I glanced at Eddie. �śAnd you’re sitting on his lap.” Eddie shot straight up, a move which made his coffee fly through the air. �śI thought it felt cold.” He shuddered. �śThat was him?” �śYou should have just seen your face.” I laughed harder. I took a deep breath, relaxed the tension in my stomach and happened to look at Kipp. In an instant, the happy feeling vanished. He was looking down at his hands and sadness oozed off every part of him. I gulped as my heart wrenched. After a silent moment that seemed to last forever, I whispered, �śAre you okay, Kipp?” �śOkay with what?” Max asked. Kipp met my gaze and my heart twisted as if stabbed with a dagger. �śI’m really a ghost.” His eyes filled with despair. �śYou’re just realizing this now?” �śWhat’s going on?” Max demanded. �śShhh.” I waved my hand for him to shut it. Moments like this one deserved to be uninterrupted. It hadn’t hit him yet. The acceptance, the knowledge he died. He hadn’t dealt with and I could see the reality of this was beginning to set in. From my time spent with him, I assumed he had already dealt with this since he seemed at ease with it all. Apparently, I’d been wrong and obviously wasn’t the only one who had trouble accepting things. �śOf course I knew, but being preoccupied with you and the case I think I forgot.” Preoccupied with me? The words affected and confused me, but my thoughts weren’t important now. �śThat’s understandable.” I hoped my gentle tone would soothe him. Normally, I was always cautious and understanding when spirits faced their death, but with Kipp it was more than that. To see him in this state, the anguish washing over him, made my heart sink into a bottomless pit of despair. �śIt’s all over.” Kipp’s eyes pleaded. �śThis is it for me?” Now, those tears in my eyes had nothing to do with amusement and everything to do with misery. My strength to keep myself distant faltered. �śI’m sorry, Kipp.” He sighed, bowed his head. �śWhat’s there to be sorry about? It’s done. It’s just...” When he said nothing more, I encouraged him, �śJust what?” He raised his head, his gaze locked with mine. Longing was heavy in his eyes. �śI always thought there would be more―wife, kids, a family.” He shrugged. �śJust more.” What could I say? Nothing at all. He would never have those things. There were no words I could mutter which would change that fact. But the part that dug at me the most was when he said those words, it pained me too, affected me as if those were my stolen dreams as well. Saying nothing further, I remained lost in his gaze. Words weren’t important. Just being here with him was all that mattered. He wasn’t asking for me to console him, not demanding I make things better, only sharing what he felt. Interrupting the moment, Max cleared his throat. �śYou okay there, Kipp?” Kipp blinked, as if breaking whatever hold his mind had on him. �śTell him I was talking about the case.” If it was possible for my heart to break more, it just did. In all this, his only thoughts were of others. How could a man like him be stripped of his life? I wanted to reach out, take him in my arms and never let go. As the need to touch him consumed me, the truth bared its ugly head with an icy reminder, it would never be. No matter that I had these feelings for him or this knowledge that there was something special about this man. It was a pointless want. I forced my feelings away, reminding myself it would only hurt worse later if I continued to open myself up to him. After a long deep breath, I answered Max, �śHe was telling me about Hannah. I’m sorry, I get emotional.” Max didn’t look convinced but looked away from me to the file on the table. �śAll right let’s get started. Did Kipp get a look at him?” Max asked. Zach shook his head. �śNegative.” He leaned back in his chair, laced his fingers behind his head and tilted the chair back on two legs. �śBut another source gave us a description.” Max brows furrowed. Zach shifted his weight in the chair and sent the legs down to bang against the floor. �śThey found Hannah” He nodded toward me. �śYou have not!” Max’s tone was full of disbelief. I nodded, not as enthralled as he was. �śWe did.” �śWell,” Max eyed me curiously, �śthat could come in handy.” �śDon’t get your hopes up,” I retorted. �śShe didn’t know anything else except that he was married.” Max let out a deep breath of annoyance. �śOf course she didn’t.” �śWhere do you want to go from here then?” Zach asked. Max went quiet for a moment then finally said, �śBest we put our heads together. See which ones match the description given by...” he gave his head a shake in bewilderment, �śHannah. Once we’ve narrowed down the list, we’ll split the pile and investigate each one individually, track their movements, see what their lives show us. Learn every detail about them. Are they married? Happily? Anything that relates to what Hannah told you.” �śTen-four,” Zach responded. Max leaned forward to Zach, intense. �śI’ll leave it you to grab the files since there is no reason for me to enter the file room. But make yourself scarce, we don’t want anyone to hear of this before we know who is involved.” Zach nodded and glanced at me. �śYou up for a little adventure?” Oh hell no! *** � Chapter Twelve � Quarter of an hour later, Zach held a piece of paper with ten names on it―all people within the department who matched Hannah’s description. At the end of the main hall, a door sat with Records written on it in gold letters. Zach placed the bag he was carrying over his head to drape across his body, took a quick look around before he swiped a card on the keypad which sat left to the door on the wall. After the red light turned green, it opened. �śThis will give us an extra few minutes in case anyone comes,” he said, locking the door. �śWe need to be quick here.” �śWe don’t need to do anything.” I glanced around the room filled with file cabinets. �śYou need to stop talking and get on with it.” �śThat’s my girl,” Kipp said with a laugh. My girl? The sound of his claim sent little trickles of happiness right down to my very soul. The little affirmation from him was enough to fill me with such joy, it was an effort to hide my reaction. �śSorry, it’s we here,” Zach said, nudging my arm to grab my focus. �śYou need to help.” �śAll right,” I said in hesitation and made my way further into the room. �śWhat am I looking for?” �śNames,” both men responded. I snorted, annoyed. �śYes, smartasses, I know that...what names?” �śStart with Shawn Edward, Todd Evans, Joey Fisher.” Zach moved toward the first row of cabinets on the left. �śI’ll start from last names that begin with A to D.” With the names echoing in my mind, I approached the third row of cabinets, which had the letter E written on a sign above it. Once I reached the first cabinet, I glanced down the rows until I found the letters �ŚEd’. I grabbed the handle on the cabinet and pulled. It didn’t open. �śHow do I do this?” I asked. �śOpen up and slide on in.” The lustful sound to Kipp’s tone, the raw desire in his eyes forced me to respond. My heart raced, my thighs clenched, butterflies played havoc with my stomach. My mind was saying no―my body was saying hell yes. He stood, simmering. His gaze intent and focused. He was challenging me to refuse―deny that this thing between us didn’t exist. As I lost myself in his mesmerizing eyes, it wasn’t lust I felt, not even remotely close. This was something far deeper. Tonight, his comment matched my reaction to him and put me in a defensive mood. I needed to stop this and stop it now. Having my heart broken when he vanished did not interest me in the least. �śI’d appreciate if you would stop talking to me like that. It makes me uncomfortable.” �śUncomfortable is good.” Kipp grinned. �śNo,” I glared, putting a little oomph into my words, �śit’s creepy.” His expression said he wasn’t through with me, but he did let it go. �śYou need to open the file cabinet. The lock is just on the side. Press it in and open at the same time.” Doing as he said, I was pleased when the cabinet opened. Not pleased when it seemed to go on forever, the files were thin and there were so many of them. �śWhere the hell do I start?” �śRight at the top and work your way around...slowly.” His words were innocent enough, but the purr wasn’t. I knew enough not to fuel him. Men like him were egged on with a challenge. I wasn’t going to give him a reason to come harder at me. Even these simple attempts were a fight against my will. If I ignored him, my hope was, he’d ignore me. As I glanced away from him, his grin said he wasn’t about to grant that request. Now, I couldn’t remember what the hell the names were. �śFirst name,” I snapped out. �śShawn Edwards.” I ignored the closeness of Kipp which caused goose-bumps to form on the side of my neck, the feel of his gaze as it lingered over my body, the ache that formed between my thighs. Yes, all of this, I flatly ignored as I search the files. Finally, after many minutes, I pulled a file from the cabinet. �śAh ha...got one.” I glanced back at Kipp. �śNext name?” He was too close to me. Thankfully he was taller or we would’ve be nose to nose, lips to lips. I stepped away from him. �śI asked you to stop it, it makes me uncomfortable.” A slow grin rose to his face. �śYou mentioned that.” I huffed, glanced up into his determined eyes, and didn’t hold back my ticked off tone. �śName now?” �śTodd Evans.” Within a few minutes, I had pulled the last file we needed, and was just about to ask Zach for another name when the door handled jiggled. I jumped, startled. Kipp attempted to grab my arm, but his hand went straight through me. I shivered from the cold embrace and glanced up at him. He had his finger raised to his mouth to indicate I needed to keep quiet. The door jiggled again, I held my breath. Zach moved faster, skimming through the cabinet while he had a bundle of files under his arm. �śI’ve only got two to go.” A loud bang on the door came with a loud shout, �śWho’s in there?” Zach ignored him. I did the same, gripping the files in my hands as if they were my lifeline, my gaze glued on the banging door in front of me. The voice came again as the loud thumps on the door echoed through the room, �śOpen this door, right now!” Zach was right in front me, handing me the files. �śHide them.” I snatched up the files and hid them behind my back as Zach ran around the room attempting to get all the file cabinets shut. I clutched my hands around the files behind me as I hopped from foot to foot unable to stand still, perspiring as my heart pounded in my ears. Kipp stood calmly, his arms crossed against his chest as he watched Zach work. But of course, why would he be scared? He couldn’t be caught because he was already dead. I was alive and wanted to stay that way. The doorknob began to jiggle again and I heard keys rattling. �śHoly shit, he’s coming in,” I said urgently to Zach. I glanced back to the door, which was opening, and as I did, I was slammed up against the wall. My only response was to gasp as Zach’s mouth met mine in a kiss that was quite passionate despite the fact his focus had been elsewhere only moments ago. He smashed against me and I moaned, not in pleasure, but more in pain. His body was so tight against mine, breathing was near impossible. �śOh,” a surprised voice said. �śShit man, I’m sorry.” Zach backed away and my breath came out in a loud huff as I stumbled a moment. Finally, I could breathe again. I regained myself and glanced up to find a man who wasn’t hard on the eyes―most of the cops around here weren’t. Handsome might have been putting it lightly with ashy brown hair, stunning blue eyes which were as happy as the smile on my face, nice body―toned and defined in all the right places. �śNo, I’m sorry,” Zach answered, sounding breathless. �śWere you knocking, Brody?” Brody laughed. �śWas, but if I’d known what was in here, I wouldn’t have.” �śNah, it’s cool.” Zach waved it away. �śProbably best you interrupted us.” Brody gave me a once over then chuckled. �śYeah right.” Relieved that we hadn’t been caught looking for files, I glanced away from Brody to Kipp, and was momentarily stunned. He stood, fists clenched, his eyes burning hot with fury. I took a step forward. �śAre you okay?” Zach grabbed my arm and laughed. �śI’ll be okay once I get you home.” Then, placing me in front of him to keep the files hidden, he pushed me out of the room. When the door closed, he let out a long, shaky breath. �śDamn that was exhilarating.” I fluttered my lashes at him. �śMen who kiss me always say that.” �śThat’s not...” Zach started. My glare came quick as I pointed a finger at him. �śYou’re not about to insult me, are you?” Zach shook his head, laughing. �śNope.” He took the files from me, placed them in the bag he brought and began to head off, but turned around. �śYou do know that was only for...” I raised my hand, not even needing him to go there. He grinned as he glanced behind him and spoke to where he thought Kipp would be. �śGotta admit I was pretty impressive in there, wasn’t I?” Just to confirm what I already suspected, I took another look down the hall. Nothing had changed. �śHe’s not there.” Zach’s brows furrowed when I met his gaze again. �śWhere is he?” I shrugged. �śHow should I know?” �śI’m here,” Kipp’s voice was suddenly loud. Looking back, I saw Kipp taking lengthy strides toward me. Nothing had changed. He was peeved. But at what? �śIs everything okay?” He stopped in front of me and glared. I never noticed how tall he was, but with such intensity oozing from him now, he was a little intimidating. He had a least four feet on me, and his size made me feel like a little mouse hunted by a lion. �śNo.” Zach sighed from beside me, as if he knew what was going on here. �śPersonal shit aside, Kipp. We’ve got a case to solve, including yours.” Then he walked away. My gaze stayed glued on Kipp’s. I was never one to keep my mouth shut and didn’t like it when someone was upset. �śWhat’s wrong with you?” His breath was deep as he answered through clenched teeth, �śIt’s nothing.” �śOh, really? You just happened to all of a sudden scowl and sound like a rabid dog for no apparent reason whatsoever.” �śI’m not scowling and I don’t sound like a dog.” I’d argue that point, he was practically wagging his tail. I pointed to his grumpy face. �śOh yeah, what’s that?” He arched his eyebrow, mildly flipping me off. �śMy face.” �śYeah, no shit, it didn’t look like that before. What’s up?” His eyes went dark with coldness. �śYou said you wanted me to keep my comments to myself, so I am.” �śYou’re mad at me?” What the hell had I done? He wasn’t pissed when I made the comment and furthermore, he was twisting my words. �śI never meant it like you’re taking it, you know that.” He examined me a moment, his eyes sweeping over my face, then asked, �śWhy do you care?” �śI...I don’t care.” His expression turned challenging, arrogance stealing his warm features. �śThen why does it matter?” My cheeks burned. Why was he putting me on the spot and acting like this? I didn’t deserve his cruelty. �śListen, you.” I wanted nothing more than to poke his chest. �śI am here to help you, remember? But if you think for one second that I’m going to stick around when you are being a complete dick to me for no reason whatsoever, think again.” �śSo now you want me to talk to you?” he growled. Fury raged through me. I stepped in closer, angled my head up and stepped on my tippy-toes to get as close to him as I could. �śYou are not going to put this on me. Whatever is wrong with you, deal with it. But don’t even try to suggest the reason you are acting like this is because I asked you to stop trying to seduce me.” He glared down at me, his challenging look only deepened. �śWell if I am not able to do that, what is my reason to talk to you?” I sucked in a deep breath. My vision blurred as my eyes closed into slits, my voice all but a whisper. �śSo that is the way it’s going to be then?” He nodded. His gaze was steady and strong. �śThat’s the way it is.” *** � Chapter Thirteen � Two nights later, we were down to the last suspect on the list, Cole Moody. Since the others turned out to be straight-up cops with no hint of trouble within their marriage, Zach and Kipp concluded they weren’t viable suspects. �śHe’s married, two kids―one and five,” I said, reading Cole’s file as I sat in the front seat of Zach’s navy blue Dodge Ram. �śAny reprimands?” Zach asked. I glanced away from the file and met his gaze. �śLike to tell me where I can find that information?” He kept assuming I knew what I was doing. Sure, I’d gotten a little quicker at finding the basics within the papers in the files, but still, they were thirty pages deep with eons of information on them. Zach laughed. �śFlip the page―halfway down.” I did and read for a moment. �śNo, nothing at all.” Then, I sighed, glanced up at the two-story yellow brick home with a tulip garden lining the pathway to the front door. �śIs Kipp ever going to come out of there?” It’d been eight hours since we’d begun surveillance on Cole Moody. Kipp had gone into the home the moment we’d arrived and still hadn’t come out. I wasn’t opposed to Kipp’s leaving, it was the good part in all of this. The days had been a strain. Not only was I confused about my feelings for him, but he continued to give me the silent treatment and only answered Zach’s questions. He made very little eye contact with me. I wasn’t sure what hurt me more, his lack of interest or my own interest in him. The one ghost I didn’t want to ignore me―was. The weight of everything had begun to take its toll on me. Physically, emotionally tired, I was undeniably exhausted. Zach gave me a look which said he knew my tiredness and frustration wasn’t in regards to the surveillance. �śYou need to give him a break.” I glowered, narrowed my gaze at him. �śIf you try and defend him for one second, I will castrate you.” �śThat’s not what I am saying.” Zach grinned. �śIt’s just, try and understand what he has been through. I take it from the way you’ve been acting the past couple days that he’s being a little harsh with you?” �śHarsh?” Too mild a statement. �śHe’s barely said a word to me in days and I have no idea what I’ve done.” Zach sighed and glanced at the house before he met my gaze again. �śIt’s not like Kipp to be flippant. If he is behaving this way something is really bothering him.” His expression softened even more. �śHe’s been through a lot, try and remember that.” Why did Zach have to be a voice of reason? Kipp had been killed, had earned the right to lash out because of it and be rip-roaring mad that he was gone. And so lay the problem here, I kept forgetting he was a ghost. Something I needed to remind myself more and more as the hours trickled by. I’d seen it before. Ghosts who became angry about what happened to them, but this felt more, it felt personal. His anger seemed directed at me, and when I confronted him, he didn’t deny it. Which only reassured me that I shouldn’t care he was mad―it shouldn’t have mattered to me since this was for the best anyway. This was the distance I wanted―right? I sighed. �śFine, I’ll take his grumpiness, but if he says one nasty word to me, I’m outta here.” Zach nodded in understanding. I focused back on the file, forced myself away from any thoughts that revolved around this utterly irritating―simply delectable―ghost. Another hour passed before Kipp appeared, melting through the chocolate brown front door of the house and glided toward the truck. I looked at the glove compartment. �śHe’s coming.” �śAbout time,” Zach grumbled. Kipp swept through the door, settling into the backseat. �śWatched a wicked fight.” I repeated the line, not even wanting to acknowledge his presence since this had been our current practice lately. My beating heart and sweaty palms were enough to tell me it was an impossible task. He seemed to cause this reaction in me just by his mere presence. �śYou’ve been in there for eight hours,” Zack said. �śWhat else did you do?” �śCole slept, played with the kids, worked out, jerked off and made plans.” �śHe did guy stuff,” I responded, still very focused on the scenery in front of me. I was desperate to look back and make eye contact with Kipp, to see if that hostility still lay in his eyes. But I didn’t want to. His softer tone with Zach told me he was in the mood he’d been in all week―nice to everyone else but me. And I knew if I looked back, I’d see the same pissed off eyes staring back at me. I hadn’t the faintest idea what I’d done to cause this. This whole I’m not talking to you because you asked was a piece of garbage. There was something more going on here, it ate at me, and took up too much of my mind. Unaware of the awkwardness in the air, or flatly ignoring it, Zach asked Kipp, �śAnything stick out?” �śNothing,” Kipp responded, raising his feet to sit on the console next to me. �śSeems like a straight up guy.” I scowled at his feet and if I could’ve pushed them off, I would have. What was he doing, trying to ensure I knew he was there? Like I could forget. Not responding to whatever he was trying to do, I said to Zach, �śHe’s a good guy.” Zach gave his head a slow shake, buckled his seatbelt, then started the truck. �śAlways the worst type of killers.” Then, he looked at the backseat. �śBack home then?” �śNo. Tess is going to seduce him.” I snapped my head around to face Kipp, uncertain if I had just heard him right. �śI’m what?” �śWhat’s wrong?” Zach exclaimed. �śI’m not seducing anyone,” I nearly yelled. As much as Kipp’s tone had softened, as I suspected, the hardness in his eyes remained. It was cold as a winter’s morning and it sent a shiver of unhappiness straight through me. �śYou will,” Kipp responded. �śSeducing someone?” Zach repeated in blatant confusion as he shifted in his seat to look at me better. �śCole has made plans with a couple buddies to go to a club. We need you to try and attempt to pick him up. If he goes to clubs, he may be the type who strays.” I couldn’t believe he was suggesting I do this. He had to be out of his mind. �śYou want me to flirt with a killer?” �śWill someone tell me what is going on?” Zach drawled, clearly frustrated. Ignoring him, Kipp’s gaze stayed on mine as he shook his head. �śI doubt he’s the killer.” Sure, his face was confident, but it did nothing to reassure me. �śAnd how can you be so sure he’s not the killer?” �śI’m a detective. Intuition tells me this isn’t our guy, but since it’s apparent he and his wife aren’t sexual enough that he needs to do it himself, we have to test him, see how loyal he is to his family.” Maybe his wife was just tired. Having two small children tended to do that. Knowing men, a daily sex life with her was probably out of the question. Instead of sharing my thoughts, I kept to the fact of how insane this all was. �śSo what, you want me to go to a club, flirt with him and try to pick him up?” �śAhh...” Zach exhaled in understanding. �śNow I see.” Kipp arched an eyebrow in the most arrogant of ways. �śThat’s the idea.” �śMight just work,” Zach agreed. They weren’t thinking this through. Of course, this was normal for them, but I wasn’t a cop. I wasn’t brave, and definitely wanted no part of this. �śBut...but what if he gets me alone then guts me.” Kipp’s eyes wavered in their harshness. Amusement swam through them as the side of his mouth curved slightly. �śI’ll be with you.” �śKipp will go with you,” Zach said, in the exact moment. My eyes narrowed. Their determined expressions said my choices were limited here. Being backed in corner was not where I liked to be. My aggravation over the past week had reached its limit. �śAnd just tell me, why should I do this for you?” Kipp shrugged. �śYou did sign on to help.” �śI never signed on to get involved and put myself in danger. Besides, you have been nothing but a total ass to me for days and I still have no idea what I’ve done.” Zach opened the door in a jiffy. �śOh, look an elderly woman needs help crossing the road. Best I go help her.” Then he was out with the door closed behind him. I didn’t have to look to see there was no woman there. He just didn’t want to face the impending conversation―the one that had been hanging over us since the day at the police station. �śAbout that―I’m guessing I should apologize.” �śApologize,” I shouted. �śYou’re kidding, right? You think that if you just say sorry it is going to make up for it all. Oh buddy, you don’t know me very well, but you’ll need to do better than that.” �śI’m not sure there is anything I can say that will explain the way I’ve been,” he paused, �śacting. The only thing I can tell you is I realize it was wrong of me to take out my frustrations on you. I apologize if I’ve caused you any trouble.” I took a deep breath through my nose. �śNot good enough, pal. What the hell has been wrong with you?” Now, his eyes narrowed. �śIf you missed what I just told you.” His tone grew deeper and a little bit snappy. �śI guess I need to spell it out for you. I don’t want to tell you what was wrong with me.” Oh, he did not just say that! Was this guy born stupid? He did not just insult me again! �śIn fact I didn’t miss it, I heard you clearly. That doesn’t mean I’m going to let it go. I deserve to know what I’ve done that upset you so much. What I did to deserve being treated as I have all week. You have barely said one word to me. And I’m the living person in this equation. I should be ignoring you, not the other way around. So, you have to own up to it and tell me what the hell has been going on?” He shook his head. �śIt’s nothing.” My irritation began to set my blood on fire. I wouldn’t have been surprised if I looked in the mirror right now to see my face had turned beet red. �śNothing? So, you have been Mr. Nice Guy to everyone else except me, but I’ve done nothing wrong?” He crossed his arms over his chest, gave me a look of pure arrogance. �śThat’s right.” We were getting nowhere. I’d learned from Caley long ago to let go―to know when I was defeated and to stop pushing to save face. Instead, of continuing and beating my head against the wall, I snorted. �śAnd you call me difficult.” A slight grin filled his face, apparently pleased over his win. �śYou can’t have it both ways you know.” The look deserved a slap in the face, but since that wasn’t an option, I clenched my fist as a substitute. I should’ve left it alone but of course, I couldn’t. My curiosity always did get the better of me. �śBoth ways?” He arched his eyebrow, a knowing glance rose to his face. �śYou can’t hide from yourself and expect people will not hide from you.” This ghost was about to be Hell bound. I pointed my finger right in his face. �śDon’t you dare go there! I mean it. Don’t try and turn this around on me. You’re the one who has had a stick up his ass for days. This problem is yours, not mine. Got it?” His jaw clenched before he answered, insolently. �śHeard loud and clear.” Silence fell between us. Obviously, Zach took the lack of conversation as a sign he could come back into the truck. He opened the door, slid back in his seat and looked at me. I let out a long deep sigh in resignation and annoyance―both felt equally strong. Kipp was right in one regard, I had signed on, therefore was expected to do this. They would keep me safe. I didn’t doubt it―well I hoped they would. �śI do this, then what?” �śThen we rule him out,” Zach answered. �śKipp’s got a nose for these things. If he’s sending you in on this, he doesn’t think Cole’s the killer. But without testing him first there is no way to know for sure.” All right, that sounded good and all, but there was one little fact they hadn’t considered. �śHow do you know he will like what he sees?” Kipp laughed with no amusement to it as he glanced out the side window. �śTrust me, he’ll like you.” Stillness filled the air while I thought of all the reasons I didn’t want to do this. I wasn’t quite ready to agree to this yet but it wasn’t only this which captured my mind. The look in Kipp’s eyes before he turned his head, the softness of his voice, the cold set to his eyes all said one thing―longing. It simply confused me. Later I’d check to make sure my head wasn’t screwed on backwards. Nothing was making any sense as of late. Moments ago, he was tough, arrogant, blaming me for his past petulance―none of that showed now. It had vanished and been replaced by a deep yearning. Breaking my inner monologue, Zach asked, �śYou in?” As much as my thoughts were confused by Kipp’s reaction, I still had enough sense to remember to find a way out of this. I wouldn’t give in so easily. �śAre there no undercover cops you can call in?” �śThere are,” Zach answered. �śBut we are under time restraints.” Dammit! I wasn’t about to stop at that. There had to be a way out. �śIsn’t there...can �Śt you find...what about�Ś” My mind hit a dead end. I snorted loud enough for both men to know how not happy I was about this. �śFine, I’ll do it.” �śGood,” Kipp answered, thoroughly pleased with himself. �śTell Zach to take you home.” This was just getting better. I could only imagine where this was going. �śAnd just why do I have to go home?” �śYou need to change.” Kipp’s earlier expression washed away into haughty smile which said it all. He was enjoying my apprehension. Whatever had bothered him before, he’d pushed away. Obviously, I wasn’t the only one who could hide parts of myself easily. My eyes narrowed on him again, not liking the path this was taking. I suspected the night ahead was not going to be enjoyable. �śChange into what?” A determined grin flashed across his face as he winked. �śChange into the woman no man would be able to refuse.” *** � Chapter Fourteen � Before I knew it, I was home, whored up, and heading back downtown. The entire drive, I could feel Kipp’s gaze on the back of my head. The longing I’d seen earlier, that look in his eyes―my thoughts were of nothing else except that. So lost in my own thoughts, I hadn’t realized we’d arrived at Coyote Ugly Saloon. Memories of my last time here and Kipp’s dirty words swept through my mind. As quick as they surfaced, I pushed them away. There was enough to think about it without bringing my unstable emotional state into the mix. Tonight, the line-up was thin, only a few waited for entry. I glanced back, focused on the door handle willing myself to open it and get on with this. �śHow in the hell did you talk me into this?” �śIt’ll be fine,” Kipp responded, already standing outside near the passenger side window. �śDo what you have to do then get out.” �śJust do what you need to then leave,” Zach encouraged. �śEasy for you to say.” I pushed the door open, then stepped outside, slamming the door behind me. As I turned around, I pulled on the jeans which were presently riding up my crack. �śI haven’t worn these jeans since high-school.” It was impossible to breathe. Definitely a good thing since it forced me to suck in my stomach, which was necessary considering the black lace skin tight shirt I wore stopped just below my breasts. The choice of clothing had not been my idea. �śJust be happy you still fit into them.” Kipp stated matter of fact. �śMost women would be pleased by that.” �śWell, if these pants split open.” I stepped away from the truck and approached on the club. �śI’ll send you to Hell myself.” �śI think I’m already there,” Kipp said so softly if I hadn’t been listening I wouldn’t have heard it. I opened my mouth to respond when the bouncer said, �śIdentification?” My gaze snapped toward a very burly fellow with a shaved head and dark goatee. �śRight.” I laughed, shakily, handing the bouncer my driver’s license. Not from this guy’s tough appearance, it was more from what Kipp said. What had he meant by, he was already in Hell? Was the funk he was in lately haunting him that much? The bouncer looked at the identification for only a quick second, before handing it back and nodding toward the door. �śGo on in.” �śThanks.” I stuffed my license into the back pocket of my jeans and stepped past him into the bar. Once in, I was met with loud country music while drunken women, who undoubtedly fit the description of a cougar, paraded around the dance floor. God, I only hoped I didn’t look like one of them. Right now, I sure felt like one―with a big red flashing sign over my head saying I’m easy. I needed to get this over with and quick. First off, I never did this. I never picked up random guys. Never did the seducing woman thing. Kipp seemed so confident in me, but I thought that support was misplaced. �śHe’s over at the bar,” Kipp said, standing in behind me. I glanced to my left to see Cole was at a table which sat directly in front of the bar. Luckily, the Coyotes weren’t dancing on top because obviously, it was break time and I couldn’t have been more grateful. At least, the crowd wouldn’t be watching where I was about to go. Taking a deep brave breath, I pushed all insecurity from my mind and started forward. Once I reached the bar, the bartender approached me. A young pretty gal�"blonde, blue-eyed beauty, who looked right out of a hot country music video, smiled at me. �śWhat’s your sin for tonight?” �śTequila, two shots.” Alcohol was the only thing going to get me through this. It was why I never drank. That little buzz had caused me my one and only humiliation–a one-night stand I had since erased from my mind. The bartender grinned, as she grabbed two shot glass, then the tequila and began to pour. �śA rough night?” �śLike rugged terrain.” After the bartender finished, she gave a brilliant smile. �śHope you night gets better, consider these on the house.” Taking in my bewildered expression, she laughed, nodded toward the end of the bar. �śBoss’ treat.” I followed her gaze to a man around his forties, handsome if an older guy was my thing. Which it wasn’t. Being polite, I held up the first shot in thanks. He tipped his cowboy hat in response. Kipp’s self-righteous voice came loud beside me, �śTold you, the look works.” Not about to give fuel to his maddening statement, I downed the shot. Of course, the look worked, I looked like a complete slut. What man wouldn’t approach me in this outfit? Anyone with a dick would know I was a sure thing. I grimaced as the aftertaste of the nasty alcohol nearly killed me, but scooped the next one up and drank it back. �śMight want to take it easy on those,” Kipp said, his back against the bar with his arms leaning against it. I nearly laughed at how comfortable he looked there―maybe from the warm rush of alcohol coursing through my blood. If people only knew while they were getting their drink on, they were also in the presence of a ghost, bet most of them would be running out of here screaming for their lives. Focusing back on the task at hand, I wiped my mouth. �śI’ll drink as many as I damn well please. Just go away.” �śHope that wasn’t meant for me?” A smooth voice said from beside me, a warm arm brushed against mine. I glanced toward it to see a simple dream of a man. A stylish cut framed his reddish hair, brown eyes twinkled interest at me and a smile that glowed in the dark bar. �śHello there,” he said deeply with pure intent to make me his for the night. Kipp stepped away from the bar, moved in behind the man as he looked at me. �śHe’s with Cole, be nice to him.” �śHi,” I responded and flicked my long hair back over my shoulder. He ran his gaze along my now bare shoulder, across to my breasts and down my stomach, where he licked his lips then looked back to me. �śI’m Mark.” Letting my inner slut out, I spun around, leaned against the bar, pulled my elbows back to shoot my chest out for all to see. �śTess.” Mark hadn’t missed the move, his eyes stayed glued on my breasts for a moment before he gulped. �śWell Tess, would you like to join a friend and I for a drink?” �śYes,” Kipp snapped out. �śLove to.” I hoped it came out as interested. Playing the part, I added a little swagger to my hips as I followed in behind Mark toward the table. �śMy Lady.” He smirked, pulling out the chair at the head of table for me. I smiled, flirtatiously as I sat down. My jeans dug into places that just shouldn’t be mentioned, and I glanced around the table. �śDo you come here often?” Mark asked, after he downed the rest of his beer from the frosty mug in one big gulp. �śNo, not very often,” I told him truthfully. The more I lied, the harder it would be to keep my story straight. �śAnd you’re alone?” he poured another cup from the pitcher of beer then handed it to me. I nodded, grabbed the beer and took a big long sip before I answered, �śAlone as I can be.” Both Cole and Mark erupted into laughter and I chuckled with them. They thought I was being sassy, when in actuality Kipp stood behind Mark so he could watch Cole’s reaction. �śFocus in on Cole, show interest in him.” Kipp demanded. Cole didn’t look like a killer―too shy. He’d only met my gaze for a moment then glanced away to appear interested in something else. He looked like a married man who shouldn’t be talking to a scantily dressed woman. �śSo, Cole what do you do for a living?” Mark’s annoyed huff was loud. Obviously, the little gesture showed where my interest lay. �śCop,” Cole replied. I leaned back in my chair, crossed my legs and even pushed my chest out a little. I glanced at Mark, noticing it worked. He zoned in on my breasts and undressed me with his eyes. But not Cole. He looked uncomfortable and uninterested. I tried again. �śTell me, do you enjoy that line of work?” I even added a little purr to my tone to entice him. He met my gaze, pursed his lips a little. �śI do.” He glanced away again. Even though this wasn’t real, I was beginning to feel shot down. It was still a blow to the ego. I wasn’t about to go in for round three of a cold shoulder. �śWould you excuse me? I have to go to the ladies room.” Mark smiled, raising his glass. �śWe’ll be here waiting for you to return.” �śGlad to hear it.” I returned the grin and stood. Then, I spun on my heels, shook my ass a little as I headed for the ladies’ room. As I pushed my way through the crowd, I kept my eyes on the dirty floor littered with cigarette butts. Just past the pool table was the washroom, which of course had a line of women, while the men’s was empty. A great idea would be to have two ladies’ rooms while the men went and pissed outside. Why no one ever came up with that solution to the never-ending ladies’ room dilemma was beyond me. I was about to settle in behind the last woman in line when Kipp said, �śMen’s room.” Not caring one bit who saw, I turned back on him, sure my face showed my outright refusal of such an idea. �śNo way.” Kipp pointed toward the men’s room door, stern and unwavering. �śNow.” I huffed loud before I glanced around. The bar was in full swing, no one watched me being too busy with their own fun evening. The idea of getting out of here sooner was the only reason I caved. Looking back at Kipp, I scowled. �śYou owe me for this one.” I shot past him, shoved on the bathroom door and stepped into the stinky men’s room. Two guys were pissing in the urinals as I made my sudden appearance. One of them glanced over his shoulder. �śWhat the hell?” he shouted. �śWhen you gotta go, you gotta go,” I said unapologetic then walked toward the largest of the three stalls. Once in, I grabbed some toilet paper, placed it over the top of the door and closed it, �śEww...” then with the same protection on my hand, I flipped the lock, �śEww.” Men did only one thing in this stall and it had nothing to do with fluids, yuck. I dropped the toilet paper in the can, turned around, and met a very pissed off Kipp. �śWhat?” I snapped out. His scowl only deepened. I whispered, �śOkay, I forgot we’re not alone. What is it?” His head cocked, a dark eyebrow arched upwards. �śWhy are you in here?” �śHe’s not the one.” He shook his head, shifting his weight as if to prepare himself for the battle ahead. �śYou don’t know that.” �śI do and so should you.” If I could have poked him to prove my point, I would have. �śCole has zero interest in me and the fact that his friend is practically waving his dick at me, I’d say you have the wrong guy.” �śGet back out there,” Kipp demanded, pointing toward the door with his hand now disappearing through the stall wall. �śTry harder.” �śWhat do you want me to do, hump him?” He nodded. �śIf that’s what it takes.” The cold hardness about him right now only caused one reaction in me. I had the urge to knock this ghost up to Heaven’s gates. I glowered, waved my hands at him to move the hell over. �śFine, get out of my way.” The moment he stepped aside, I slammed the stall door open to find the two men staring at me with confused blank faces. �śWhat?” I shouted. �śAre you all right?” the man who spoke before asked. �śI’m fine,” I growled and tore out of the bathroom like a bat out of hell. Only a few steps out, I stopped dead. Cole was waiting for me with a grin on his face. �śYou were in the men’s room?” I stuffed the anger away and found a luring smile. �śI don’t wait for anything.” Cole frowned, then grabbed me by the arm, causing me to gasp out in fear as he headed toward the back of the club. �śYou’re safe,” Kipp said, right beside me. �śNothing will happen to you.” Like that settled me any. He could drag me to the parking lot and slit my throat. I attempted to yank my arm away, but it was pointless. He had a death grip on it. �śWhat are you doing?” I squeaked. Cole said nothing until we reached a corner of the club which was private. He placed me in the corner then gave me a firm look. �śListen, I don’t want to hurt you.” �śHurt me?” I almost screamed for help right then and there. �śI have a wife, a family―who I love deeply,” Cole answered, releasing his hand from my arm. �śI’m flattered by your approach of me, really, you are a beautiful lady. But I am loyal to them.” �śOh,” I said, shocked. �śOh,” I said again, finally regained myself. �śWell that’s a good thing.” He gave a resolved nod. �śIt is.” Then, he glanced over my attire. �śYou seem like a nice woman, you should maybe rethink what you are wearing. It gives the wrong impression.” My cheeks burned, but it wasn’t from humiliation. It was the result of anger hot enough to send steam from my ears. Not only did I not want to do this, but I had been rejected and now looked down upon because Kipp made me wear this ridiculous outfit. �śI wish you a good night,” Cole said, before spinning on his heel to leave me standing there, alone. My heated gaze found Kipp’s, a glare like no other on my face. �śYou...you...you.” Kipp held his hands up in surrender from my rage. �śThis is the first time I’m grateful for being a ghost.” I took a step toward him, ready to hurt something. �śAnd why would that be?” My voice was a low snarl. He backed away, even though he had no reason to fear my wrath. �śBecause you can’t hit me.” *** Back at the house, Zach handed me a plate with a couple of slices of pizza on it. �śCome on. Even anger can’t beat hunger.” I snatched the plate from his hands. �śThank you.” �śI’m the one who suggested it,” Kipp said, taking a seat next to me on the couch. I glared at him. �śAll right.” He sighed and stood then moved to the leather recliner. �śYou’re still mad.” Mad didn’t even cut it. I had enough―of him―this―all of it. Never once had anyone asked me if I wanted to help with this, I was just told I had to. No one cared I wasn’t at work, not getting paid, tired, hungry―and yes this pizza was delicious. In the past two days, I’d been seduced, made a fool of, had the most erotic dream of my life, stuffed myself into jeans which were way too tight, been rejected and then told I looked like your regular street whore. All of that didn’t compare to the fact that I cared for this idiot ghost, and the torment of emotions I’d been feeling lately turned me inside out. Just as I took another bite of pizza, the door flew open. �śYou are all in so much trouble!” Caley stood, hands on her waist, expression as tight as a person eating a sour candy. �śNo one called me! You all go off on this murder mystery leaving me to worry and not a single one of you calls me for days to tell me that you are all right! Every time I come here, no one is around―you all just upped and vanished.” I swallowed my food then wiped my mouth with a napkin. �śYou know, you aren’t our number one priority.” Caley’s glare deepened, even added in a stomp of her foot to prove just how truly pissed she was. �śWell I should be. I couldn’t even sleep. I’ve been tossing and turning every night. Look―I have bags under my eyes. And your phone is still off.” I placed my plate on the coffee table, then rubbed my hands across my face, feeling so very tired. �śWhat do you want, Caley? I’m not in the mood.” I waited for an answer. I lowered my hands, glanced at Caley who studied me with an odd expression. �śWhat now?” �śWhat’s wrong?” Caley asked, seriously. A thousand things I wanted to say. Instead, I kept it simple. �śI’m chasing a murderer and you’re asking me what is wrong?” Caley examined me a minute more then said, �śNo, someone has hurt you.” She stepped forward and glared at Zach. �śWhat have you done to her?” Zach turned to me, examining, curious. �śI haven’t done anything to her.” �śI’m fine,” I told Caley in hopes that she’d take the hint to shut her mouth. Of course, she didn’t. �śBullshit! Why are you sad?” Her hands balled into fists as she brought them to the sides of her body. �śTell me right now.” It was not a place I wanted to go, especially with Caley here. She was as protective as any older brother would be. Heads would roll. Even if Kipp’s head couldn’t, she’d find a way to make it happen. Hoping to settle this, I planted a smile on my face. �śIt’s nothing, I’m okay. Honestly.” Caley’s eyes narrowed. �śI have known you since you were this high.” She held her hand to her waist. �śNot only do I know you have been hurt, I know you’re lying to me now.” �śI’m just tired,” I responded, eager this would do the trick. �śThis is all just so exhausting.” �śYou don’t look tired,” Caley retorted. �śYou look heartbroken.” She wouldn’t leave it be. I drew in a deep breath. �śWill you just let it go, Caley? I don’t want to talk about it.” �śTalk about what?” Kipp stood and took two big steps toward me. As did Caley, who stopped right in front of me, her hand on my shoulder in a way meant to comfort me. �śWhat’s happened?” Very unlike her, which meant she understood the gravity of my pain. I sucked in a very deep breath, jumped to my feet, shrugged off her hand and glared between her and Kipp. �śI said I don’t want to talk about. What of that don’t you all fucking understanding?” Caley’s eyes widened then they lowered to slits. She closed the distance between us, coming nose-to-nose with me. �śYou’re going to tell me right now or I will tell them what you did on spring break.” The event she referred to involved bare breasts and a very drunk me. As much as I wanted to keep screaming to keep this anger up and not break down, having my best friend with me now, all I wanted to do was run into her arms and cry on her shoulder. I felt torn in a thousand directions and had reached my limit. It wasn’t a lie about being exhausted either, I was so tired my eyes burned and because of it, my control on my emotions plummeted. Before I could stop it, my eyes welled up with tears. Caley’s look softened. Her hands rested on my shoulders as concern rocketed across her features. �śJesus, Tess, what is it?” I shook my head and the movement spilled a tear down my face. If I opened my mouth it would come out in a loud cry, and that I couldn’t have. �śWhy are you upset?” Kipp asked in a gentle tone which stole my heart. I glanced at him. The energy to fight against all this had left me and holding back the tears was impossible. �śTess,” he said, taking another step forward. I raised my hand to stop him, found my voice beneath the sadness. �śNo, don’t.” �śTell me...what’s happened?” Caley’s tone was as soft as it had been before, just the comfort I needed, but didn’t want right now. I only wanted to be left alone. With tears streaming my face, I met Caley’s gaze. �śPlease do as I ask, just leave me alone.” Without looking back, I ran toward Kipp’s room, shut the door behind me and let myself wallow in the bottomless pit of self-pity. *** � Chapter Fifteen � A cold touch on my face dragged me from my sleep. It wasn’t a surprise after I cried enough to soak the pillow, I’d drifted off to sleep. My eyes fluttered open. Kipp knelt beside the bed, his fingers lightly caressing my cheek. Immediately, I shifted away from his contact and sat up. �śWhat are you doing in here?” �śI was watching you sleep,” he said without remorse and lowered his hand to rest on the bed. �śWhy?” I replied, baffled. His gaze focused intently on mine―an emotion I hadn’t seen from him before danced through his eyes―he shrugged. �śIt eases me.” This was another dream, wasn’t it? I gave my face a little smack, which made Kipp chuckle. The sting ran up my face. No, this was really happening. �śIt eases you to watch me sleep?” �śVery much so.” Silence filled the air as I attempted to get a grip on what he meant. I was still in the sleepy haze and nothing made any sense. My mind had difficulty processing anything right now. Kipp leaned in toward me, his cold fingers an icy touch on my cheek. �śAre you feeling better now?” �śI’m fine.” I shivered from his touch, a shiver which had nothing to do with the coldness of his embrace. �śI was just tired and overwhelmed.” Kipp gave me a look that said he didn’t believe a word I said. �śHonestly, really, I’m fine.” The side of Kipp’s mouth lifted, his voice a soft whisper of truth. �śYou like to run and hide from things, don’t you?” I snorted and moved away from his hand in defiance. �śYou don’t know anything about me.” He leaned in closer and met my gaze with a fierce expression. �śI know what I need to about you.” Yeah, right. Two could play at this game. �śAll right then, tell me, what you know?” �śYou are unique, but are not self-absorbed to flaunt it. You’re kind to others not out of duty, but from a warm heart. You have experienced enough sadness it should leave you broken, although, you are strong enough to push on. You’re beautiful and yet appear to have never been told that. And one thing I know for sure, is you are exactly the type of woman I’d spend the rest of my life trying to make happy.” I gasped, smacked the side of my face again. �śI’m dreaming right?” I glanced around, looking for a unicorn or something out of the ordinary which would clarify this wasn’t real. �śYes, this is a dream?” Kipp laughed a deep rumble. �śIf this was a dream I’d be fucking you.” I blushed at his boldness. He raised his hand up to my face again and grazed along my cheekbone to leave an icy cold trail in its wake. �śI really do love that I can make you do that.” I shuddered from the cold stroke, then shook my head, confused. �śSo, I’m not dreaming.” He trailed his finger along my lips where I licked out at the frigid contact. �śNo you are not.” His eyes filled with regret. �śI’m sorry that I upset you.” I sighed, my gaze landing on the bed as I wallowed for a moment. �śI don’t even know what was upsetting me.” �śOf course you do,” Kipp responded, only a second later. �śIt’s because you’re trying to fight against the feelings you have for me.” My head snapped up toward him, my blush grew deeper. �śI...I�Ś” He continued to run the frosty tip of his finger along my heated cheeks. �śWhen I saw Zach kiss you,” his eyes grew deeper with distress, �śit created anger in me I’ve never known.” �śThat is why you’ve been acting the way you have?” I should’ve seen it, known this was what upset him, but I didn’t. I felt foolish for missing something so obvious. �śYou were mad about the kiss?” �śNot just that he was kissing you, but knowing I never could.” He ran the chill of his finger back to my lips where he stopped, touching the bottom lip with his gaze focused there. �śBecause you see, Tess, I am sure I have already fallen in love with you.” Without warning, tears welled up in my eyes again. �śYou have?” It was obvious he lusted after me, but who knew that could have just been his way. Love―I hadn’t expected to hear this. He nodded, a confirmation which he undoubtedly had wanted to share, if the relieved expression on his face had anything to say about it. �śI certainly have.” �śBut we can’t do this.” I stated the obvious. �śYou’re a ghost.” He sighed, troubled. �śIt’s not the best of circumstances, no.” Then, he smiled sweetly. �śIt cannot be a coincidence that the only one who can help me in this situation happens to be the woman who could destroy my bachelor ways.” �śOh...” I hadn’t even considered it as a possibility, �śso you think you needed to experience this with me to cross over?” Never once did it occur to me meeting him could have been more than just my helping him solve this case. Was the reason he was still here because he was being truthful he wanted more of life? Did he want to experience love as he never had before? Is that what kept him stuck here? Did it have nothing to do with Hannah at all? �śI’m taking a guess that it might be why. It is the only thing I can come up with. The coincidence of it is too steep.” He winked. �śCops don’t believe in coincidences.” If anything, it made me like him more. Finding true love had meant that much to him, he’d felt unsatisfied and couldn’t cross over. He may have been way off here, but I liked the fantasy of it all too much to not indulge myself in thinking he was right. But acknowledging that, made a thought rise. �śIs that why you are saying this to me now, so I can help you? �śNo,” he said, sharply. �śWhy then, why now?” His eyes softened to a place I’d never seen from him, warm, declaring what he was telling me now was nothing but the truth. �śYour tears.” What? That surely wasn’t the answer I was expecting. We were running out of time? Yes, that I thought was appropriate. He’d grown impatient? Even that made sense. �śMy tears?” I repeated, confused. His finger continued to dance along my cheek, creating little pings in my body which roared my senses alive. �śYour true feelings showed.” Apparently, he was expecting that to answer my question. It didn’t. �śWhich were...?” �śLonging, pain, anger―everything I felt in my own heart.” Little flickers of annoyance raced through my blood. This whole time, he’d felt the same as I did. �śSo, if you felt that way, why didn’t you say something sooner?” He gave a knowing look. �śI’m a ghost.” Yes, he was. But it didn’t matter, not to me. The simple line had answered my question though. �śSo, you were hesitant...like me. �ś He nodded, saying nothing else on the matter. I let the quiet settle around me a moment, while I processed all this. It was an abundance of information to take in. However, after a few minutes, I was still left confused. �śSo what do you think this all means then? I mean, what do we do from here?” �śWe enjoy the short time I have left, to experience you just for a little while.” Then, he gave a sultry grin. �śI have been craving to say these words since the moment I laid eyes on you.” His eyes turned molten. �śTess, get naked.” The words came from his mouth, I knew I heard them, but couldn’t seem to wrap my head around them. I sat silent, stunned, then when some sense returned, I laughed. �śSeriously?” �śI’m very serious.” Kipp’s eyebrow arched, his tone indicating he wasn’t lying. I laughed again, nervous. �śYou just want me to get naked in front of you?” Kipp stood up and stepped away from the bed, waved his hand for me to stand with him. �śThat is exactly what I want.” I didn’t move an inch. �śWhy?” �śMy time with you is ending,” Regret deepened his tone, �śso please, indulge me this. Let me see you. All of you.” �śBut I barely know you,” I pointed out. His eyebrow arched higher, head cocked in intrigue. �śDoes it matter?” �śIt does to me. I never do one night stands.” Kipp grinned, pure smartass special. �śI have known you for days now, so it isn’t really like a one night stand.” The grin he gave me worked its magic. I was lost in it a moment, it was so arrogant and revved my motor to full speed. I gave my head a shake, willing myself to think straight. �śSo what, you want me to strip down so you can see what I look like naked?” He nodded, appearing on the edge of impatience. �śThat’s right.” �śWhy?” I asked again. His frowned, his annoyance of waiting had clearly set in. �śIs it so hard to understand why I would want to see a woman such as yourself nude?” �śAhh...” I considered that for only a split second before I answered, �śyeah.” Kipp shook his head, unhappy. �śIf only I could love your body until that self-doubt is erased from your mind.” Perfect point. �śThat’s the thing you can’t.” �śYes, I realize this,” he grumbled. Nothing else needed to be said while he stared and I squirmed. The silence began to eat at me. �śOkay, so you want to see me naked?” Oddly enough, I wasn’t hesitant to do this for him. Maybe it was true and he did need to experience real caring for a person to move on, to experience what it felt like to care for someone other than yourself. Truthfully, that wasn’t what was urging me on. I wanted to be naked in front of him, to feel his gaze along my flesh, to see what his reaction would be when he saw me exposed. The only thing that interested me now. A playful grin rose to his face. �śI never said I only wanted to see you naked.” I huffed, irritated. He’d gotten me all excited and now he was taking it back. �śYou just said you wanted to see me naked.” �śYes, I did.” His expression said he wasn’t taking back his earlier demand. All right, now he had my mind swirling. He wanted to see my naked, but never said he only wanted to see me naked. �śNow you are just confusing me.” �śI’ll make it easy on you and take control,” he purred. �śStand up.” Sucking in a deep breath, I squirmed off the bed, lowered my feet to the floor and stood. His mischievous expression left me curious. �śWhat are you up to?” �śApparently, you have trouble making decisions so I’m taking away that need.” Control I usually liked, but here and now, I wasn’t hesitant to play along with this. �śAnd now?” �śClose your eyes.” Nerves soared through me. It was one thing to do this with my eyes open, another thing to not see what he was up to. �śWhy?” �śRemember, no decisions, just actions.” I rolled my eyes before I gave in and closed them again. �śMy voice is all you hear, nothing else.” I laughed, peeking open an eye. �śAre you trying to hypnotize me?” He gave me a stern look. �śWould you just close your eyes?” �śOkay, okay.” My laughter died and I lowered my lids to complete darkness. �śWhat next?” �śJust breathe, relax.” His voice was smooth, sexy, and deep. �śSettle that busy beautiful mind of yours.” After a few deep, long breaths, my entire body began to feel like a heavy weight. Tingled with relaxation, my mind ceased of thought except the concentration around my breath. �śSlowly reach up for the hem of your shirt and remove it,” Kipp instructed, his tone controlled. I did as he asked and took the hem of my jersey knit shirt in hand. The softness of it just added to my tranquil state. It wasn’t hard for me to understand why Kipp insisted I keep my eyes shut, it took the awkwardness away. If I didn’t have to look at him, I had no reason to be shy. I pulled the shirt off as the cool breeze swirled around me. �śRemove your pants.” I tucked my fingers into the rim of my cotton pajama pants, pulled them down, then kicked them away with my foot. When I stood fully, Kipp groaned. I smiled, pleased that I’d grabbed a black lace thong and matching bra tonight. �śReach back, unclip your bra and let it fall down your arms.” Without hesitation, I flicked the little hooks then let the lace straps slide down my arms until they swept past my hands. Kipp’s sharp breath hitched before he said, �śPanties, now.” Slipping my fingers into the waistband, I pulled straight down and lifted each leg free from the lingerie. I flung my panties straight at Kipp, which I knew would go straight through him, but I liked the attempt of teasing him. A second later, he shouted, �śFuck.” I snapped my eyes open as I did my best to cover myself with my arms. �śWhat...” I started, then I caught his expression. I lowered my arms to my sides, incapable of speech. His jaw clenched, fists tight, muscles quivered―this was a man grasping at the last remnants of control. All of this was gentle compared to what lay in his eyes. A look that women swooned over and what fantasies were built on. His intent, hunger and focus was for me and me alone. Nothing would satiate him. No one could cure him from this. Only my body would ease the torment he suffered now. And it could never be, which made me wonder if doing this was cruel. It was like placing a juicy steak in front of a hungry lion. His breath hitched, his expression told me he did not want me to put my clothes on any time soon. �śI expected to find a beautiful woman beneath your clothes―never did I anticipate the sweetness that’s before me now.” After a lingering appreciative look, he nodded toward the chair in the corner. �śBecause I suspect you will continue to open your eyes, grab the scarf and tie it around your eyes.” It wasn’t an option really, it was a demand I didn’t intend to refuse. I took the scarf from the chair, tied it tightly around my face and darkness overtook me. It surprised me I wasn’t feeling uncomfortable, shy or nervous. I liked this. In fact, I wanted more. With the blindfold secure, I lowered my arms to rest against at my sides. �śWhat now?” �śSit down on the bed.” Reaching back, I felt for the edge of the mattress. When I found it, I sat down. �śLie back, shift to the center.” I skimmed my way up the bed until I found the pillow. I laid down and placed my head against it. The darkness around me gave strength to other senses. My hearing was sharper and his deep aroused breaths were loud. �śI’m going to touch you.” His voice was now very close to my ear. Preparing myself, I sucked in a hard breath and waited, unsure of what he was going to touch. The anticipation was beginning to make me shudder in need. �śNow, if I could,” His voice filled with longing, �śI would kiss you here.” His frosty touch hit the plumpest part of my mouth. Parting my lips, the bitter air swept across me to awaken every nerve- ending in my body. I licked out to moisten my lips. My warm tongue connected with the chill of his touch and my body erupted into a long deep shudder. �śThen, I would taste you here.” He ran his finger along the edge of my jaw then down my neck slowly. I gasped, unable to hold back. My heated flesh and the contact of his frosty touch created a multiple of sensations to send me into sensory overload. �śI’d taste your shoulders,” his finger feathered along my skin, �śand arms, right along here.” He continued to trail his finger down to the center of my chest. �śThen when I get here, I’d lick them.” He ran his finger over one taut nipple. I moaned. Shivered. Hungered. My mind took me to a place I couldn’t believe, where I could actually feel his mouth around my nipple. Light licks, wet long sucks pulled it into his mouth. As he circled his finger, he continued, �śI would suck on it, bite down, showing you just how much your breasts drive me to near insanity.” The motion of his finger began to hurt, the coldness so concentrated in one area my nipple was so tight from the wintry air, plus the ravenous arousal capturing me, my only response was to moan louder. Apparently, reading my reaction, he moved along to the other one. �śIf this was my mouth, the pain would be from leaving you raw and worn. Your breasts would be left rosy with an ache from my teeth. I grabbed onto the sheets with my hands, my back arching upwards, the moisture building between my legs was enough to drive me wild. I wanted to reach up, grab Kipp’s face and demand he take me until the sun came up. But I couldn’t, so I held onto the sheets, forcing myself to survive this. �śI’d move along your body, kissing every one of your spectacular curves to learn every spot that builds your need for me.” He moved his finger down my stomach, circled my belly button. The chilly air moved along my body until just above my pubic line. The quiver made my stomach clench in response. He was so close to where I wanted him to go, but he moved so slowly. My mind filled with images of what his touch would feel like against my throbbing nub. �śWiden your legs,” he purred. I was pleased my eyes were hidden beneath the blindfold. What they would show was a desperate woman. I let out a little squeal of desperation and did as he asked. �śYes,” he hummed. �śThat’s my girl.” With my legs spread wide, my feet resting upon the soles across the cotton sheets, I waited. Longed for him to answer the question I’d been wondering. What would his touch feel like along my fiery flesh? �śFuck, you’re a beautiful woman.” He groaned, deep and low. He didn’t appease me as I hoped he might. Lightly, he ran the coldness of his touch across my ankle, but now the embrace had amplified. He didn’t use a finger, but his whole hand and the amount of coldness that swept across my legs left goose-bumps in its wake. My breath was quick and sharp. The coldness caused my jaw to chatter as shivers of ice ran through my blood. Then, it all froze as the breeze swept up my sensitive flesh and centered on my nub. I sucked a breath through my teeth, my jaw clenched and my limps tightened. Nothing prepared me for this. No amount of imagination would ever be able to create this sensation as possible. The air moved along my heated skin as if he was circling it, but no pressure was met. I squirmed along with the touches, letting out a soft moan, needing more than what he offered. When he didn’t give it, I cried out in frustration. �śRemove the blindfold,” he said, sternly. Doing as he asked, I reached back, untied the scarf then removed it. The strain against my eyes caused me to blink a few times before Kipp’s form came into focus. When it did, he stood away from the bed. Apparently, he saw my next question and said, �śNo questions. Just wait.” In a swift move, he was naked. Yes, it was true, regular rules didn’t apply to ghosts since like magic, his clothes were gone. It may have shocked me more, if the marvellous sight of him didn’t steal my attention. He thought I beautiful, I thought him a piece of perfection. My fantasy of him was not far off from the real thing. Muscles after muscles created a sight of man Heaven. He knelt on the bed in front of me, his heavy erection before me. I longed to touch it, stroke it, place it in my mouth and play with it to make him moan out in pleasure. He took his hand, then grabbed his erection. I understood what was going to take place here. First, I was momentarily shocked that he could masturbate as a ghost. The idea of it had never crossed my mind. As his erection grew even larger from his strokes, it was apparent just because he was dead, didn’t mean he still couldn’t get off. �śTouch yourself.” He groaned, as he worked his body with slow long strokes. For a moment, I was lost watching him. No man had pleasured himself in front of me before. It never interested me to watch a man do this, but now, I realized I’d been missing out. Pure desire rushed through my blood as I witnessed his eyes deepen in pleasure. If I reacted this way, I suspected he would too. Without pause, I lowered my hand down between my thighs. Reaching my little nub, I lightly teased it, sending little waft of tingles to stir myself. This was exactly what I needed, to ease the building pressure. Lowering my fingers, I found I was far past aroused as I reached damp skin. My body reacted to him in ways I had only dreamed of experiencing. Never had I been so ready. With my silky fingers, I trailed my way back up to my nub where I began to circle it with the pad of my finger. Within minutes, my body responded. Heat concentrated right at my centre, shot up my body and caused a moan to escape my mouth. My gaze stayed focused on his hand around his hard erection as he quickened his strokes. Pressing harder against my nub, I circled deeper, kneaded the little bud to increase the sensations blasting through me. My breathing became short. His hand worked faster as his gaze shifted from my eyes to my fingers circling slowly. My hips began to arch up as the pressure built even further. My moans grew louder. His groans began to soar around me, only increasing the need for me to press harder against my aching nub. I placed two fingers against myself, depressed against my swollen flesh and snapped my gaze to his. He was focused on my eyes alone. As if he bore into my soul, the depths of them were far past arousal, they lingered into a desire to claim, to lose each other in the wavering moments of release. His strokes were fast now. He wore an expression which was intent and urgent―hooded eyes, clenched jaw, and strained muscles. It was enough to send me reeling with a multitude of tumultuous feelings, but what finished me off was the one gesture that made him, him. Every man has it, one thing they did while lost in pleasure. His, was to take the side of his bottom lip into his mouth and bite down on it, and the moment I saw it, my mind ceased to be incapable of a single coherent thought. I screamed, shuddering deeply as my body tightened and erupted into the type of pleasure that would leave me satisfied for months. I wanted to close my eyes, let myself relish in the intensity of my climax, but nothing could keep me from watching Kipp come into his own release. His body was shaking, while he stroked the end of his erection so fast, it only seemed to draw out my climax. The fierceness of him, the look of a strong man satisfying his needs, captivated every part of me. Still in my release, I sat up, wanted to give him more of me. I plunged two fingers deep inside of me and matched his speed. �śGod, yes, do that,” Kipp growled. My mind was creative enough not to think of myself doing this. With the thought of this being him inside me now, bringing myself to orgasm was not hard to reach. �śDamn girl, I’m going to―.” His words died, his expression began to show a nearness to pain. His muscles were more defined than ever. The intensity from him caused my pussy to clamp around my fingers, tight enough it was impossible to continue with the same speed. My eyes watered, my body vibrated, as I had no other choice but to close my eyes to bask in the wave of pleasure which swept across me. Kipp’s deep groans were loud around me, but no part of me could open my eyes to him. Not until, my body released my mind to thought, could I return to reality. First thing I noticed when I glanced around was the lack of mess. Apparently, ghosts can come―but fluids are denied to them. Because it was obvious, Kipp had satisfied himself and the bed was clean as a whistle. I glanced up away from the sheets to Kipp. His hands rested on his thighs and he grinned. It was a smile which stole every part of my heart. �śBabe, that was the best fuck I’ve ever had and I couldn’t even really touch you.” My breath hadn’t fully returned quite yet and the only response I could give was a slow heavy nod. *** � Chapter Sixteen � A while later, I found the energy to move, I snuggled up as much as I could to a ghost. My face was close as it could be. I wrapped myself up in the blanket to keep the chilly air at bay. Now that my mind had returned, and after what I’d just seen him do, it made me wonder how much I didn’t know about ghosts. �śWhat do you miss most?” �śThe smell of things.” Kipp’s response came with no hesitation. �śYou can’t smell anything?” He shook his head, easily since in actuality his head didn’t lie against the pillow, only floated there. �śNothing at all.” �śWeird.” Once I got over the shock of it, it actually made sense. He was still here, but not. The thought only intrigued me about all the things that were so different for ghosts. I’d never once asked a ghost these questions and felt compelled to do so now. �śWhat else?” �śTouch.” I was happy he brought this up. It was one thing I was curious about. �śWhy can you touch yourself, but not me?” �śFrom what I’ve come up with, I’m guessing it’s because I’m not really in this world anymore.” �śWhere are you then?” I whispered, preparing for an answer I assumed was going to shock me. He gave a half-hearted shrug. �śHaven’t a clue, but it would explain why I am able to touch Hannah and feel her.” Yes, I had wondered that too. Why had they been able to embrace each other when he couldn’t physically hold anything else? As curious as that was, my thoughts drifted along another line. �śDoes it feel the same to touch her as it did when you were alive?” �śCompletely the same.” I’d suspected as much. It was obvious in his and Hannah’s hug, the warmth to the embrace held the same effect. My thoughts were still stuck on what he said earlier. I needed answers. �śHave you gone to this other place?” He considered that, then answered, �śI think it’s where I go when I travel quickly. It’s hard to explain, it feels busy but black.” I tried to imagine that, but came up blank. �śLike there are lots of people there, but you can’t see anything?” �śExactly.” It was the place between alive and dead, blackness, but full of other ghosts―it seemed right. �śGuess that makes sense. It’s as if you can manipulate yourself here, but in truth, you have no presence. Like how you appear to be lying with me now, but in fact you’re not―just floating.” To confirm my words, I glanced toward his head, still floating so very close to the pillow. �śThe funny thing is it isn’t even action anymore, it’s more thought. Like with driving, I imagine myself sitting in the back seat of a car, then I end up there and will stay in the car while it is moving.” �śSeriously?” I tried to imagine what that would be like. It was impossible to wrap my living mind around it. �śYou don’t think―walk to the car and get in?” �śI only think I want to be in the car and stay in it.” �śHow is that possible?” �śI think it’s because walking is natural for me to do, as it would be for other ghosts. It’s not something to think about because it’s engrained into me. If I told myself to float, I probably would.” I was only too glad he didn’t prove that point now. No need to vamp up the fact that he was indeed a ghost. It was much nicer to stay in this bubble of delusion. �śOkay, well it’s a little strange, but I guess it’s kinda nice to know how it all works now.” �śKnowing and understanding, doesn’t mean I miss it any less.” �śWhat’s to miss?” I smiled. �śWe seemed to do just fine without being able to touch each other.” His gaze connected with my lips. �śWhen something is taken, you realize just how incredible the ability really was.” He looked back up at me. �śIt’s torture.” �śI understand that torture.” It’d been days of total and complete hell. The expression which crossed his face was a curious one. He seemed to be searching for words. After a short pause, he finally spoke. �śHave you ever felt...this way...before?” I knew where he was going with this, but I enjoyed seeing him stumble a little. For once, it wasn’t me stammering all over the place. �śDepends on what this way means?” A slight blush rose to his cheek, and I found it utterly endearing. �śHow different it is with you.” �śHow is this different?” He blinked his eyes a couple times, his expression tense as if his mind was working a million miles per second to explain himself better. He finally huffed, looking frustrated. �śAre you always this difficult?” �śDepends on what you think difficult is?” I grinned. The lines of hardness melted away when he chuckled deep, then his eyebrows furrowed a bit as he became thoughtful. �śTo explain better, you know my need of women has been...not lasting.” I laughed. �śYes, I think I have figured that one out.” �śWhen I saw you the first time, the only way I can explain it is I didn’t want to leave you. I couldn’t walk away from you, even if I had wanted too, which I didn’t.” My heart melted, his words, I could have said them myself. �śI think I know how you feel.” His eyebrow arched. �śDo you?” I nodded softly, not really wanting to go where I was about to, but he’d given me honesty, I owed him the same. �śThe night you were trying to get my attention...” I hesitated and blushed. �śRemember that night?” �śThe night I seduced you.” �śYes, that would be the night. Well, after the little event I went home and did what we did earlier.” He grinned seductively. �śYeah, I was so hot that I did that...alone.” �śI know you did,” he said, unashamed. I shot straight up in bed, horrified, glaring at him to fess up. �śHow do you know?” �śI watched you from the window.” If I could’ve smacked him, I would have. Instead, I slumped back against the bed and buried my face into the pillow. �śThat is so mortifying.” �śDon’t be embarrassed.” He laughed. I moved my head away from pillow and peeked up at him. �śEasy for you to say.” As much as I could have died from embarrassment over this, I decided a better strategy was to get the attention off me. �śWatching someone through a window makes you some kind of sick pervert, you know. �ś �śThat’s the thing with you, I can’t help myself. The morals I lived by no longer apply when it comes to you. You make me want to break all the rules.” His words eased the blush away from my cheeks, the warmth of his tone centered right in my heart. �śAnd why do you think that is?” He smiled so sweetly as if he had the answer to it all. �śLove at first sight.” A term I never once thought possible, but now began to believe in. �śI think your dead right about that.” He laughed loudly. �śI bet I am.” Talked out, beat from our steamy escapade, silence fell around us, while our gazes remained locked. I just never thought destined love was possible. Probably because I’d never really ever been in love before, not in the sense of what I believed it meant. What it meant for my parents, who were devoted to only each other and loved despite each other’s flaws. To me, love happened over time―built on memories. Now, that theory flopped. There was something between Kipp and I, so instant and I couldn’t deny was fate related. Suddenly, the room dropped another degree, which meant only one thing. As if on cue, Hannah’s soft voice came from the doorway. �śI’m sorry to interrupt you.” I yanked the blankets up to cover myself. Kipp did the magic bit and was instantly clothed, which was a shame. I gave my head a shake to think outside of myself and focus on Hannah. �śWhat’s wrong?” �śI’m really sorry to intrude on your...” Hannah hesitated, obviously deciding not to continue with that statement and smiled. �śAnyways, I’ve been thinking about what you asked me, about where I’m buried.” I nearly laughed, what an odd statement to hear coming out of someone’s mouth. Instead, I bit my lip and kept my mouth shut. �śYou remembered something?” Kipp asked, intrigue lifting his tone. �śYes, I remember when...” she wiggled her hands in a spooky manner, �śI rose from the dead.” I laughed. Hannah did too. It was nice to hear it coming from her. To witness the little flicker of the woman who once lived. Kipp gave me a look to behave. I laughed harder. He sighed and glanced back at Hannah. �śDo you remember where you were?” Her laughter ceased, as did mine. �śWell, you see, after I gave up trying to find Percy, or whoever he is, I walked around a while. It felt good to be out of the house. I ended up walking for a long time, not really knowing where I was going. Just so happened that when I stopped walking, I was in the place I woke up.” I glanced at Kipp, waiting for him to say something. He didn’t. The suspense was killing me. �śTell us...where were you?” �śMeeman-Shelby Forest. It all came back to me in a flash. The blossoms, the sound of the lake nearby, the clearing. I think I can show you on a map where I was. I don’t want to be there though, when you....” Sadness washed over her face, her eyes darkened and she frowned. Kipp stood from the bed and pulled her into a hug. �śYou don’t need to go with us, just pointing us the way is good enough,” he declared. �śWe will find out who did this to you. That is a promise.” Hannah backed away from his embrace. �śUs.” Kipp gave her a curious gaze, she continued, �śYou’ll find out who did this to us.” Kipp grinned, a threat as much as it was a promise. �śRight, us.” �śI’ll be at the main entrance waiting for you to come so I can show you the way.” Hannah said, then poof, she was gone. Okay, this whole up and vanishing thing was just bizarre. Ghosts hadn’t used that ability in front of me before. The idea they could transport anywhere they wanted to whenever they felt like it, wasn’t settling. Once I pulled myself from my state of shock, I jumped off the bed and glanced at Kipp. �śYou have to go.” His head was bowed to the ground. I snapped my fingers in front of his face to wake him up from wherever he’d gone. �śDid you not hear what I just said?” �śYes, I heard you,” Kipp answered, cool and collected. Which only annoyed me. The whole reason for this, for the past days of exhausting, humiliating events had been answered. �śWell then, why are you just standing there? Get moving, we have to find her.” Kipp let out a deep sigh, raising his gaze to mine and I saw sadness touch every part of him. �śAre you sure you want to solve this case now?” My impatience erased in a flash. �śOh...” I hesitated, then repeated in understanding, �śOh.” He nodded, solemnly. �śYou’ll be gone.” I whispered, sorrow rolling off my tone. It sounded like a question, but it was really more a statement of truth. �śI suspect I will.” I glanced down at my hands. I didn’t want that. Having him here comforted me in every sense. For once in my life, I didn’t want to help a ghost exit my life. I wanted him to stay. The thought of him gone was gut wrenching. He’d been in my life for only a short time, but in those days, I’d gotten used to his presence―I liked him being there. As overwhelming as it was and as selfish wants filled me, there was someone else to think of. I lifted my gaze to Kipp. �śHannah.” If they didn’t find her body and hopefully unearth some clues, she’d be stuck forever. Hurt, lost and lonely. I didn’t want that either. The question was, what did I want more? In the one word spoken, the simple mention of her name, Kipp’s face became resolved. His loyalty, his entire make-up, declared there was only one choice―it was time to save Hannah’s lingering soul. *** � Chapter Seventeen � �śYou know, you don’t have to look good to do this,” Kipp’s amused voice came from behind me as I stood in the bathroom cleaning myself up a little. I looked at him in the mirror while I finished applying my mascara. �śI don’t go anywhere looking like I just got my rocks off.” Kipp chuckled, low and deep. �śYou wear the look well.” I smiled, sealing up the mascara and placing it back in my bag. I was only too happy that while I had my break down, Zach and Kipp had gone back to my place to gather up some clothes and necessities. Speaking of that, a thought rose. �śBy the way, how did you get a key to my condo?” �śZach took it from your purse.” I tried to appear insulted, but really wasn’t. I was too happy to have my stuff to be pissed about them rummaging through my things. �śDon’t you know going into a woman’s purse is forbidden?” �śFigured if it meant dirty clothes or looking in your purse, I thought the latter was a better choice.” I couldn’t argue with him, but it still nagged at me Zach went into my house without me. Actually, I was a bit surprised at the choices Zach made. The outfit matched, the lingerie was more comfortable than sexy and he’d even gathered all my favourite make-up, plus the newest member to my family. My sleek black Stella McCartney leather boots, high heels and all. They were a piece of beauty. �śWas anything out of the ordinary at my place?” It felt weird to be away from home for so long. Good thing I hated cat hair and refused to ever own a fluff bull or I’d be a terrible pet owner. I reached back into my make-up bag and pulled out some blush to dust my cheeks. Just as I finished up, Kipp answered. �śI wouldn’t know the state of your place. I didn’t go with him.” The blusher landed back into the bag as I spun around to face him. �śHe went alone? To my house? To gather my personal items?” The idea horrified me. Kipp had at least been there and well, we had, practically slept together. If he had been there to tell Zach what to gather, it felt less like an intrusion. Kipp shook his head, his eyes laughing at my horror. �śHe had company.” Company? Someone else went into my house, my personal space. Oh, heads were going to roll. �śMind telling me who else went into my house?” He inclined his head down toward the hall where Zach’s bedroom sat. �śReally, is this important? We have Hannah’s future in our hands. Let’s be off.” I scowled. Only a man would say something like that. �śYeah, yeah, yeah.” I dismissed him with a wave of my hand as I walked by him and headed for Zach’s bedroom. Kipp laughed behind me. At Zach’s bedroom door, I hammered on it with loud, hard bangs. A couple minutes later, he still didn’t answer. Kipp waited impatiently as he paced the hall. It would’ve been easy enough for him to just melt through the door, go into Zach’s room and wake him, but what was he going to do, breathe on him. If Zach didn’t open the door soon, I was going to barge in, not caring if he slept naked. After several more loud bangs which included my foot kicking at the same time, the door finally opened. Who answered, stunned me. My thoughts had been leaning toward the fact that Zach had fallen asleep and was one of those guys who wouldn’t wake up if a bomb went off beside him. But it wasn’t Zach who met me at the door. �śCaley?”� � Caley grinned and wore nothing but Zach’s plain white t-shirt. She held the door open only a crack. �śOf course it’s me and why you are interrupting us?” �śI need Zach,” I replied sternly, not at all pleased at the situation. It wasn’t that Caley was with him. Actually, I wasn’t at all surprised, nor was I unhappy about it. It was that this was Caley, never compliant, always impossible. At least, now I knew why all my favourite stuff had been packed. Apparently, Caley had gone with Zach, which made me feel better to know it wasn’t him rummaging through my things, and it also explained the comfy undies. Men just never picked the cotton ones. As if on cue, Caley said, �śSorry, he’s busy.” Before I could respond, Zach had the door open, the bed sheet wrapped around his waist. �śWhat is it? What’s going on?” I hesitated, my gaze running over the length of Zach. My interest may lay in Kipp, but I knew a good body when I saw one. Instantly, I could understand Caley’s annoyance for the interruption. Tonight, I had witnessed two of the best bodies I’d ever seen―if this was all a dream, we were in man-heaven. Damn, we were lucky girls! I gave my head a shake to focus and dragged my eyes to Zach’s face. �śHannah came to see us. She remembers where she is buried.” �śThis is the lead we’ve been waiting for. We cannot wait until the morning. If this means we are closer to finding out who shot Kipp then we have to proceed quickly.” Caley opened her mouth and he promptly clamped it shut with his fingers. �śPlaytime is over.” Caley dared to look offended. �śYou’re just going to leave me here...” she looked down to the lower half of her body. �śLike this?” Zach grinned, groaned, then immediately pulled Caley back into the room and shut the door. I followed Kipp to the living room and sat on the armrest of the leather chair next to him. An urge to give him a little snuggle captured me. Since that was impossible, I just sat as close to him as I could. A shiver rumbled through me from the chilly air of him. I welcomed it. The coldness meant he was still here. A moment later, Zach appeared fully clothed, took a seat on the couch, and ran a hand through his hair to free his bed head. �śAll right...” he lowered his hand, gave me a firm glance, �śtell me what Hannah has said.” Clearly, Caley had gone to sleep. I was pretty impressed she didn’t put up more of a stink. But I was sure she understood how important this all was, maybe Zach had filled her in on all the details and apparently he told her she couldn’t hear what was being said here. I wouldn’t have doubted in the least if her ear was presently glued to the door, listening. And maybe I was a little jealous of how easily Caley listened to him, I could learn a few things from him and if I was around him long enough I was going to take notes. �śWell, after...” I glanced at Kipp. His grin was sultry and his eyes sparkled in amusement. �śYou care to indulge him on our night of pleasure?” No, I did not. But the mention of it brought memories back into my mind tenfold. His eyes―the nibble on his lip―my body warmed at the thought of it. Enjoyment flashed across Kipp’s face. Evidently, he had been searching for just this reaction. I gave him a little scowl, which he laughed at, then looked back to Zach. �śHannah came to us a little while ago. She said she was out on a walk and ended up back at the area she was killed. Then the memory of when she woke came back to her.” Zach’s eyes went wide. His lip did a pretty good Elvis impression―basically, a complete mask of disbelief. �śWoke up―as in―where she was buried?” My laughter was right at the very edge of bursting, but I was a good girl and refrained. �śYou got it.” His gaze remained glued with mine, an expression so serious it was hard to decipher what thoughts ran through his mind. �śOkay, explain this to me, because I’m having a real hard time getting a grasp on exactly what you’re saying to me here. Hannah, the ghost, went for a walk around town, stumbled across the place she is buried, then came to you―to tell us where to find her body.” �śNo...I mean yes.” I shrugged. �śShe probably doesn’t know exactly where she is buried.” Zach shook his head, apparently trying to focus his thoughts. �śAnd just how would she all of a sudden remember something like that?” �śBecause that’s what happens.” Really, I was so tired of repeating myself over and over again. If this ever happened again, which I’d see that it didn’t, I was going to have to take notes and write things down so I could save my voice from straining itself and just have them read it themselves. There had to be an easier way than this nonsense. When Zach’s expression didn’t waver from his need for answers, I added. �śIt’s just what they do. Sometimes when they find me, they know enough to get down to business. But with others, their memories are not so clear and are held back from them. And it’s those times I usually need to give them a little push in the right direction, or ask questions to bring the memory back up to the surface so they can,” I waved my hand whimsically, �ścross over. But as always with every circumstance, that push triggers more insight. Apparently Hannah knew more than she thought and could have been drawn to that area since it is the reason for her inability to move on. It’s probably what led her there. You know, action without thought.” Zach gave his head another hard shake. �śIf you say so.” He appeared far beyond mystified. �śSo then tell me, where is Hannah Reid buried?” Finally, we were moving on. The good thing about him, and one I surely appreciated, was Zach was quick. He asked the questions which would either prove or disprove and whatever way he decided he went with it. I liked that about him a lot. With a smile on my face and a rejuvenated sense of confidence, I answered him, �śMeeman-Shelby Forest.” Zach sighed deep, annoyance flashed across his face, which caused it to darken considerably. His eyebrows drew together in unhappiness. �śOf course she is somewhere like that. Why should I have expected anything different?” He then dropped his face into his hands as he rubbed it. What was I missing here? Shouldn’t this all be good news? We had the location of Hannah’s body, which was a good thing and her family would have answers, also a good thing. So, why was he all huffy-and-puffy? �śWhat’s with the grumpy face?” Slowly, he raised his head and his gaze connected with mine. �śDo you have any idea of how large that forest is?” Of course I did. It was a great hiking destination here in Memphis. A great way to get far from the busy city. Anyone and everyone from around these parts has camped, hiked or canoed there. �śAhh...yeah it’s pretty big. Isn’t that what makes it so great?” Honestly, I had no idea where he was going with this. He gave me a measured look. �śThat should answer your question then.” I glanced at Kipp, looking for a bit of clarity. He smiled. �śHe does not know Hannah has pinpointed the area she was in. I think you confused him when you said she didn’t know exactly where she was. He assumes we will have to search the entire forest.” �śOh!” I exhaled, finally getting a clue. �śYou don’t need to worry about it, Hannah said she can point us in the right direction. She doesn’t know...” I raised my hands and did the quotation marks with my fingers, �śthe exact place, but she knows the area it’s in. It’s a small clearing. She’s pretty sure she can show us how to get there on a map.” Zach’s head shot up, his hands dropped to his side in a flash. �śYou’re fucking kidding me?” The move startled me. I jumped and gasped. Plus, my mind was just as confused at what he thought I was kidding about. Since I wasn’t making a joke in any regard, I did the only thing I could do and said, �śNo, I’m not kidding―what’s so funny about?” Kipp laughed. Apparently, he knew what had Zach’s face lit up like it was Christmas morning. Before I could say more, Zach replied, �śYou are honestly telling me Hannah has agreed to take us to the location of her corpse?” He didn’t have to spell it out more than he had. I got the humour in this all too quick. �śUm...yes.” Now saying it, it sure sounded right up there in crazy town. The reaction I had been expecting is exactly what I got, Zach burst out laughing. Kipp and I quickly followed. It wasn’t until I said it out loud, did this whole scenario really show itself. For all the strain we’d been through these past few days, it came out in a fit of laughter. It was completely and utterly insane. To think that we actually found Hannah, informed the cops of my ability, and the bar incident―now the implication we were about to go hunting for bones, was so absurd, none of us could control our restraint. My eyes filled with tears as my stomach tightened from the force of my laughter. We’d been so wrapped up in it all, been through so much together, the reality of all this just hadn’t set in. Now it had. Zach was keeled over busting a gut. �śYou talk to ghosts―they tell you about their deaths.” His words were coming through loud deep gasps of breath. �śThat’s fucking insane.” �śI know,” I managed through our laughter. �śThey never shut up, always wanting something―I’m dead, where do I go, who am I?” That line only caused a round of deeper laughter. My breath was coming out in loud pants, my stomach ached from my muscles contracting with each laugh, and tears streamed down my face as I crossed my legs to prevent myself from pissing my pants. Zach gripped his stomach with his arms, his face just as wet as mine. The color of his skin resembled a tomato. �śOh, hey―by the way― I know where my corpse is.” I raised my head, forced my words from my mouth. �śBut don’t worry I’ll take you there.” Kipp dropped down off the chair onto his knees, laughing too hard to speak a word. For a few moments, no sound came from his mouth. The amusement in all this consumed him with such intensity, his laughter crippled him. �śMy body is in a forest, buried under the ground.” Zach barely got the words out. �śWould you mind digging me up?” He finally managed, only to lay over on his side on the couch trying to gather air into his body. Kipp was now on the floor on his knees and his deep laugh echoed through the room. �śBut I can’t go―can’t be there to see my bones―cause that’s just too weird.” Drool dribbled down the side of my mouth. I sucked it back in, wiped my mouth and cried out in laughter which begged me to get a grasp on reality again. It didn’t happen. Not for at least ten more minutes until we all gathered a sense of ourselves again. And decided the craziness of it all didn’t mean it wasn’t going to happen. Finally, Zach returned to a sitting position, wiping the laughing tears from his face and sighed. �śFuck, if anyone just heard our conversation we’d be committed.” I sighed too, smoothing the hair away from my face. �śWhy do you think I try to avoid ghosts in general? I like my freedom, thank you very much.” Kipp was resolved enough to gather himself up to sit back on the arm of the chair. �śNo matter how insane it all is, it’s ours to deal with.” Yes, there was that little fact. Before I could say anything, Zach interrupted. �śSo, what am I to do, get a map or something?” His chin shook as if another laughing fit was on the brink but to his credit, he held it back. Why was he asking me? As if I had any idea what the heck we needed to do in order to find the location. �śSounds good to me,” I said, looking up at Kipp. He nodded, his smile still very prevalent in his eyes. �śA topographical map would be best. It will show us little details that she might remember, such as hills and the river she mentioned.” I relayed the information to Zach. He nodded and stood. �śI’ve got one in the truck.” Then he glanced around, his eyes suddenly cold with shame. He leaned down closer to me and whispered, �śHannah is not here with us, is she?” My smile was quick, but I restrained my laughter, as did he. �śNo, she said she’d meet us at the main gates of park.” �śFair enough.” Zach’s expression shifted to relief. Obviously, his kind heart crumbled at the thought of hurting Hannah’s feelings. Yup, a good match for Caley in every way. Maybe, he could teach her some manners. Without another word said, he spun on his heel and began to head off toward the kitchen. �śWhere are you going?” I called out after him. He glanced over his shoulder, no hint of amusement living in him now. �śI’m calling Max.” Huh? Truthfully, I figured we’d just go and Hannah would show us on the map. Then, in the morning, Zach and the other guys would head out to take a look. If that was the case, why was he waking him? �śWhy does he need to call Max now?” I asked Kipp. �śWon’t he be pissy for waking him?” �śJust gathering the troops is all. It’s protocol to let him know what’s going on,” he replied, running his finger down my cheek with a sweet smile. I enjoyed the frosty breeze which danced across my skin, my eyes closed. Guess the whole, not doing it tonight, was a flop. At least hearing there would be others gave me positive thoughts. �śOh good, so there will be lots of you, which means I can stay in the truck.” Kipp’s finger continued to move up and down my cheek slowly. �śThat is doubtful.” My eyes snapped open and I moved away from his touch. �śWhat is doubtful?” Again, Kipp gave me a smile which said he enjoyed when anger burned in my blood. �śI would imagine you will need to come with us.” Oh hell no I wouldn’t! Go in the middle of the night, walk through a scary dark forest on the hunt for a dead girl’s grave? Not likely. �śAnd just why will I need to do that?” Kipp shifted on the armrest and shrugged. �śSimple, how will the others converse with me if you are not there?” �śBut...but...but I don’t want to go out in a dark forest in the middle of the night.” Sure I was pouting now but I didn’t care. I didn’t want to do this. No way. Not one little piece of me wanted it. Kipp arched an eyebrow and gave me a knowing look. �śNot sure you have a choice here.” He did not just go there. He was stepping over the line from being a ghost to a bossy ghost. It was one thing I never put up with. I had to draw the line somewhere. �śI always have choices and this is one where I am saying no.” �śIf Hannah knows the location, we’ll just look around the area. I’m sure the forest is thick and anything disrupted will be an obvious sight.” �śBut she was killed five years ago.” I pointed out. �śIt’ll be overgrown by now. How are you even going to see anything?” �śIt will be less overgrown than the rest of it.” When I opened my mouth to continue my rambling, he stopped me. �śListen, I know the idea of going out there to her grave frightens you but you’ll be kept safe. Don’t you trust me enough to know that I wouldn’t put you in danger?” �śOf course, I trust you.” He smiled at my offering. �śBut what the hell is trusting a ghost going to do?” He frowned now. �śWhat are you going to do spook someone to death?” �śYes,” he hesitated, then finished up. �śI’d do something. Besides, Zach’s there and he has a gun. Does that ease your worries?” It would ease me more if I didn’t have to go at all. I’d learned enough so far to know fighting him was a losing battle, so why bother. �śWe’ll just look around then we’re out of there, right?” He nodded. �śRight.” Zach re-entered the room, a grin worth a million dollars on his face. �śWell Tess, hope you don’t mind a little dirt under your fingernails, because we’re about to go dig up a grave.” Dark night, scary forest, crazed murder, hidden grave―dirty nails. Oh, hell no! *** � Chapter Eighteen � The night was pitch-black and as we drove through Meeman-Shelby Forest, shadows and gloom had settled across the land. I wasn’t normally jumpy―spirits were real, what else could scare me? Still, I felt unsettled. This wasn’t a spirit we were going in search for. This was a body buried five years ago. My stomach flipped and flopped at the images swimming through my mind. �śI wish I could kiss that worry away.” Kipp said, sitting next to me in the backseat of Zach’s truck. �śI wish you could too,” I responded quietly to keep the conversation private. The kissing part would be nice, but it wasn’t only the journey ahead that had me on the edge, indecision had crept up. Once the body was found, clues probably would be there too, and then the case could be solved. Kipp’s need to stay would be gone, his soul settled and content to move on. �śWhat was that?” Eddie asked, apparently eavesdropping. I glanced toward him in the front seat next to Zach. When we picked Eddie up, he came out half-awake with three shovels in hand. I was glad to see the coffee he was drinking worked as he now looked perkier. The faster they dug, the sooner this would be over. Which is where I felt conflicted. I wanted to help Hannah but I didn’t want to be doing this in the dark and I certainly didn’t want Kipp to leave. What a big stinkin’ mess. I shook myself from my thoughts and answered Eddie. �śI was talking to Kipp.” Eddie laughed softly, shook his head, then looked back out the front window.� � �śWe’re doing the right thing.” Kipp said, drawing my gaze back to his. His expression was soft and questioning. Apparently, he was re-thinking this choice just as I was. Seeing it wasn’t what I needed. I needed him to be the strong one here, to tell me that we were doing the right thing because now I wasn’t so sure. The wavering emotions began to break. My mind so confused and full of doubt, it was hard not to feel overwhelmed by all of this. My chin trembled, my lip quivered and tears filled my eyes. Kipp let out a long deep sigh and lowered his head. �śWhy did we have to meet now?” It was more of a statement then something I needed to answer, so I kept quiet. He glanced back up to meet my gaze, his eyes filled with sadness. �śWhen you look at me like you are right now, I’d believe I was already in Heaven.” A tear spilled down my cheek. He reached out to wipe it away, but instead of touching me, the frosty air dried the wetness along my skin. �śBut when I cannot touch you, I'm reminded I must be in Hell.” �śKipp,” I barely whispered. He smiled softly, reassurance in his expression. �śYou’ve made death easier.” Now, it wasn’t only one tear, but many streaming down my cheeks. �śIf the only way to have met you was to have died then I’ll never regret it. Not for a single moment.” He gave a serious look. �śYou know that right?” I managed to find my voice. �śI do.” �śThen when the time comes, remember I was happy to have experienced this small amount of time with you. That you gave me something I’d never known. You made me feel something I thought I was incapable of. Know that I treasured each and every minute we had and I was happier these last days than I’d ever been.” I sat silent for a moment and absorbed his words. I took a deep profound breath before I let my mouth run wild. �śI love you, Kipp.” It wasn’t even a thought when it poured from my lips. I knew it, felt it the moment I met him. I could no longer deny it to him or to myself. It was all of him, every little piece which made him who he was that filled my heart with enough love it could burst. He smiled, making a happy sound. �śI love you, too.” Suddenly, someone cleared their throat. I looked up. Eddie had already gotten out of the truck and Zach was halfway out. �śI’m sorry to interrupt but we’re here,” Zach said, looking at the seat of the truck as if trying very hard not to listen to what was being said. I looked back to Kipp, who smiled. Beneath it, I could see he battled against himself in refusal to do this. �śGuess we should go?” I said in a strangled voice. Kipp gave a nod that was full of conviction despite what his eyes said, even when he added a forced smile. �śGo and get your feet dirty.” �śOh crap.” I suddenly realized I had worn my brand new leather boots. I opened the door of the truck and stepped out. After Kipp joined me outside, I slammed the door closed. I approached Eddie and Zach who had a topographic map laid out on the hood of the car. Just then, Hannah appeared. �śAbout time.” �śThe downfall of not being able to teleport wherever you want to, is you have to drive which takes time.” I laughed. Hannah smiled. When I glanced away from her, Eddie and Zach both appeared flabbergasted by my admission ghosts could do that. �śNever mind.” I waved it away, not wanting to get into it. �śWe need to call in the location to Max so he knows our whereabouts,” Zach said in a soft voice, glancing around as if searching for where Hannah stood. �śSpeaking of that, where is he?” If I had to be out here, he sure as hell should have to be too. The more of us there to help, the faster I’d be out of the dark forest. Eddie let out a loud sharp bark of laughter. �śMax?” �śYeah, Max.” He gave a look which said I should know better. �śThe Sergeant doesn’t get knee deep in mud, dear.” I glanced over to the forest in front of us and pouted. Eddie wasn’t exaggerating. Even in the darkness, I could tell it wasn’t going to be an easy trip. Why couldn’t they take one of the nicely tailored trails that would lead them around this forest? �śSeriously? I have to go in there?” �śYes,” Zach responded. �śKipp may need to tell us something and we can’t hear it if you are not there.” �śBut my poor boots.” I nearly cried. My pretty, shiny boots that I had only bought a few weeks ago, and had saved a couple months to buy. �śThese cost three weeks of pay.” Eddie gave me a rebuked glance. �śYou can wash them when we are done here.” Oh, wasn’t he Mister Smarty Pants. Well, I wasn’t going to give yet. �śWhat if they don’t come clean?” Zach laughed, mirroring Eddie’s expression. �śIt’s mud, it’ll come clean.” �śBut...but they could get scratches!” Suddenly, Kipp’s voice abruptly broke through my little rant. �śYou need to let Hannah tell us where she is located, Tess.” With that interruption, I realized I was stalling, searching for a way out. Both Eddie and Zach studied me, waiting. I forced myself to get a grip. As much as I wanted to stay here and keep Kipp with me forever, if they didn’t discover who had done this, Hannah would never cross over. She would always linger in search for peace. The pain, loneliness and misery in Hannah’s eyes that I witnessed earlier, and could even see of little of it now, was all I could think of. No one deserved that fate. Going against what I felt in my heart, I stepped forward and came up beside Eddie. �śWe’re here now.” Eddie pointed to the main entrance of the forest, to the parking lot where we now stood. My gaze landed on Hannah. �śYou ready to do this?” She nodded eagerly. �śDamn right I am.” I closed my eyes and let Hannah’s words become my own as I repeated what she said. �śAll right, use your finger to follow what I say.” �śGo ahead,” Eddie acknowledged, ready to follow the directions. I gave Hannah a moment to start before I relayed her words. �śGo straight until you hit a creek. Once there, turn left and you’ll hit an incline.” �śI see that, yes,” Eddie confirmed, his voice held a tinge of excitement. �śWhen you’re over the hill turn to the right and walk for a while,” I continued, repeating Hannah’s words diligently. �śThe lake runs along your right here. You can hear it the entire time.” �śA short distance away,” Zach spoke up. �śYes, we can see that.” After a moment of letting Hannah speak, I repeated, �śYou’ll come to a cliff. You have to climb down it. Once at the bottom, you go to the left and you’ll come into thick bush.” I paused, waiting for Hannah to finish. I opened my eyes. She gave me a smile, said a few words, then up and vanished. �śWell?” Zach asked, impatiently after the long break. I glanced away from where Hannah vanished and looked at him. �śYou only need to walk a few minutes longer and then you’re there.” Zach smiled, at thin air. �śThank you.” Obviously, he intended for Hannah to hear it. �śShe’s not here anymore.” I laughed. Zach shook his head in a harsh manner, clearly annoyed. Eddie and Kipp laughed with me. Ignoring us, Zach reached onto the hood of the car where his phone rested. He picked it up and typed away on the buttons for a while. Once done, he held out his other hand to Eddie. �śPhone.” Eddie handed him his then folded up the map and stuck it in his back pocket. Zach held Eddie’s phone to his ear and after a few seconds he said, �śMax, the coordinates are thirty-five degrees north and ninety degrees west.” He went quiet a moment then said, �śYeah. Got it. Right.” Seconds later, he lowered the phone from his ear, pressed end and glanced at us. �śWe are to call him if we find anything. He’s at the station now digging through old reports to see if any unknown bodies have been pulled from this area.” Just then, headlights caught my attention, I covered my eyes against the beaming lights. As they drew closer, I noticed it was a police car. �śWho’s that?” �śK9―must be Brody.” �śK9 division,” Zach said, without knowing the question had already been answered. �śWhat’s Brody doing here?” The police car pulled up next to Zach’s truck, the door opened. �śHowdy y’all,” Brody’s friendly voice called. Zach gave him a completely befuddled look when he approached the truck. �śMax called you in?” Brody nodded, running a hand through his warm brown hair. �śThought you might need a little extra help.” �śWasn’t that considerate of him.” Zach laughed. I stood, not at all understanding the exchange. Apparently, this was out of the norm to have the K9 aboard, and for the life of me, I couldn’t figure out what was so odd about this. Made perfect sense to me. Need to find a dead body? A dog with a good nose seemed like the perfect choice. Unable to restrain myself, I voiced my confusion. �śWhy does it surprise you?” Zach met my gaze, quite serious. �śMax is never considerate.” �śBet it’s for her.” Eddie gestured toward me. �śIf she wasn’t here, I doubt he would have done this.” All of what was just said was the most ridiculous statements I’d ever heard. �śAre you telling me Max would have sent you out to the middle of a forest in the pitch black on your hands and knees trying to find this grave which was buried five years ago?” �śYup,” every one of them responded. I snorted. Maybe my first impression of Max had been wrong. �śSounds like a real charmer.” �śDon’t be put off, Max’s about as good as they come,” Kipp said. �śBut his roots are old school. He thinks clues are found by searching for them yourself.” �śWell that’s just...” I started. Zach interrupted me. �śHe does what he has to.” I glanced at him, a little annoyed he cut me off, but when I caught Brody’s baffled gaze, I understood his interruption. �śSorry,” I said to Brody. �śI’m not weird or anything, I just talk out loud sometimes.” Brody smiled. �śWe’ve all be known to do that once in a while.” Then, his gaze flashed with curiosity. �śWhy are you out here anyway?” Zach and Eddie exchanged a glance. I didn’t hesitate. �śI was talking with Eddie and Zach...about...you know.” Brody nodded which stated he understood I meant Kipp’s death. �śWhen they discovered this clue about the body’s whereabouts, I thought having an extra set of hands would help.” Brody’s eyes widened. �śWell consideration is going around tonight then.” Eddie stepped forward, eager to change the subject. �śSo, who did you bring with you?” �śDuke,” Brody responded, then he spun on his heel and went back toward his police car. My eyes followed him until he reached his car, after which, I glanced back to Zach. �śWho’s Duke?” �śThe department’s cadaver dog,” Zach answered, and gave me a quick wink for my explanation. Eddie just let out a deep breath and smiled. Brody opened the door and with a loud thump, a big droopy Bloodhound hit the ground. He gave his whole body a shake, turned, and barrelled toward me, ears flapping. I wanted to move, run in fact, but my feet were glued to ground. �śOh good Lord,” I squeaked. Everyone around me laughed, even Kipp, but as Duke jumped up to place his two paws on my chest and sent me straight to the ground, I didn’t feel like laughing. I was terrified of this big beast. Dogs and I were usually sworn enemies. Within seconds, my worries vanished as Duke licked my face like a lollipop. �śEww.” I tried to push his face away. �śGet him off me.” He was heavy and moving him was impossible. Even turning my head from side to side didn’t work, he just seemed to anticipate my every move. �śHier,” Brody shouted. The dog instantly jumped off me and went to sit at Brody’s feet. Everyone was still laughing as I wiped my face in disgust to rid myself of the goobers. �śFirst of all, yuck. Second, what language is that and what did you just say?” �śIt’s German.” Brody gave the big dog a scratch on the head. �śI said, here.” �śWhy German?” I continued to wipe the slobber from my face. Brody shrugged, glancing back up from the dog. �śJust the language we use. It keeps the pups from getting confused when English is spoken around them.” Zach reached out to me, offering his hand. I took it, stood, giving my face and neck a final wipe. I then approached Duke, lowering my hand to scratch his ear. �śIf you wanted some scratchies, you don’t have to eat me, you know.” Duke’s tongue wagged out the side of his mouth. His eyes were barely visible through all the wrinkles. I used both hands to squeeze his cute face. �śHe’s a sweetie.” Friendly and loveable couldn’t even describe him. Brody laughed, a very rich sound. �śIf only women had the same reaction to me as they do to the dog.” I glanced up at him, and wasn’t mistaken when I thought there was a sultry nature to his tone, his expression declared it. �śAhhh....” �śTry it and die, fucker,” Kipp growled. I smiled, unable to stop it. His protectiveness pleased me. I didn’t mind one bit he’d staked his claim. Brody gave me a luscious smile. �śI take it you and Zach have ended whatever you started,” he said, deep and velvety. Shit! Apparently, he misread my smile. He thought it was meant for him. I needed to rectify that. �śI can see why women like the dog, he’s a beauty. Zach, we should get a dog like this sometime.” Brody’s smile vanished. Kipp’s frown melted into a satisfied grin. �śWhatever you want, babe.” Zach laughed and Eddie joined in. �śSo, what do we have to do then?” I released the dog’s squishy cheeks and straightened up. �śWell,” Brody said. �śWhat are we doing here?” Before any of the men could voice just how weird that was, I asked, �śShouldn’t you know that?” Brody shifted on his feet, kicked some of the stones along the road. �śNah, Max just told me to meet you out here with Duke.” Zach stepped toward him and handed him the phone with the GPS coordinates. �śYou know the old case of Hannah Reid.” Brody nodded, looked down at the phone to read the location on the phone’s GPS system. �śYeah, I remember it.” �śWe are about to find her body,” Zach told him with deep determination. Brody snapped his head up, surprise living in his eyes. �śYou want me and Duke to search this entire forest?” He looked less than happy about that suggestion. Eddie shook his head. �śNo, we got a lead pointing to the exact location. It’s flagged there.” Brody’s eyes went wide. �śA lead from what source?” Zach and Eddie’s expression swept with confusion and unease. But I remained calm. �śA source came forward, someone who was too scared at the time to say anything, but now wanted to set the record straight.” �śWatching you smooth talking him to believe you makes my cock hard...” I held back my smile as I glanced toward Kipp. �śMmm,” I stretched to make it appear as if that was the reason I made the noise. �śThe fast talk you are capable of honestly arouses me,” Kipp continued, and shocking me completely, all of his clothing vanished. �śYou see, I’m not lying to you.” I gasped, shocked, aroused and awed over just how beautiful this man was. Hard lines from his abs to his hips, groin trimmed enough to keep it neat and tidy, but enough hair to declare him a man. Strong thighs rippled with muscles. Just one look at him and my body responded, heating in all the right places. �śAhh,” Zach said with a slight hesitation in his tone. He grabbed my arm and pulled me forward. �śI know you’re feeling unsettled, but don’t worry, we will help you here.” Slowly, I glanced at Zach. �śPardon?” Zach nodded ever so slightly to Brody. �śDon’t be afraid here, we will help you.” �śOh,” I responded, instantly forcing the reaction away. �śRight, scared―sorry I was just thinking about the poor girl and got scared. My eyes went wide didn’t they?” Zach was hiding his smile. �śYes, very wide.” �śYou all right now?” Brody asked, a concerned edge to his tone. I also noticed he was a little bewildered, too. I laughed it off, smoothed my hair away from my face. �śJust fine, thank you. �ś Then, something caught my eye. If I had something out of place, I’d want to be told, so I always gave the same respect back. �śThere’s something on your ear,” I told to Brody. He reached up to rub his ear and laughed. �śMy sister’s kids were over today. They thought coming at me with markers was a fun idea.” The spot never came off, but now it was red where he’d rubbed it. He lowered his hand as he glanced back at the GPS. �śSo these are the coordinates then?” �śWe believe so,” Zach responded. �śIt’s a good hour trek in.” �śAll right.” Brody handed the phone back to Zach. �śLet me just go grab some water for Duke.” As he headed off to his car, Duke in tow, Zach leaned down and whispered in my ear. �śGood save.” He backed away. �śWell before you went all lusty on us.” �śHey, it wasn’t my fault,” I retorted. �śKipp showed me...” I hesitated as Zach’s eyebrows rose. �śWell that’s not important.” Zach and Eddie laughed. �śJust wanted to prove my point is all,” Kipp said. My gaze fell to his. His resolve wasn’t there yet, but at least his clothing had magically appeared again. I turned my back so Brody couldn’t see and pointed at him. �śIf you want me to keep quiet about all this ghost business then stop...” I paused, glancing back to Zach and Eddie who were watching with equal amusement on their expressions, �śdoing what you did.” �śIs that what you really want?” He grinned. I considered that a moment. �śWell, no, but just later, all right?” As I turned around, Brody and Duke trotted back over. �śWe off then?” he asked, coming to a halt in front of the truck. Zach nodded, glancing at the forest, to the inch thick mud on the ground. �śYeah, we’re off.” He and Eddie followed Brody into the forest. Kipp stood motionless. Sadness stole his features. What had him upset? I tried to think over what was said, but couldn’t find a reason he’d be so troubled. �śAre you okay?” I asked, quietly. He said nothing, only shook his head then walked away. I was frozen, stunned a little, but snapped out of it and jogged up to reach the others. Being alone in a dark forest didn’t appeal to me by any stretch of the imagination. Only minutes in, I realized what I’d done, what I said. �śWell, no, but just later, all right?” There wasn’t going to be a later. As much as it hurt, and it did, I swallowed it back and refocused. All of this I would feel later. We had made this decision to proceed with this. There was no going back now. Personal matters would just have to wait. We were off to find the bones of stolen dreams. *** � Chapter Nineteen � The hike into the forest felt much longer than the quarter of an hour we’d been walking. I kept my flashlight out in front of me and decided not to look to the side. Ignoring the darkness was my best bet, since I didn’t want to look like the weak little woman here. I was up to my ankles in slop―leaves mixed with recently rained upon mud. �śUgh.” It may have been a stall tactic earlier, but I wasn’t lying. I loved these boots and to see them treated in such a way was a complete travesty. �śMax is going to owe me new boots.” �śIf we find the body, I doubt he’d object,” Kipp told me. Eddie laughed from behind me. �śIf your assistance here just solved this case, I’ll buy you them myself.” He didn’t know just how dangerous those words were. �śI’ll hold you to that.” I replied looking back at him with equal threat and excitement. �śIf this case is solved,” Zach said up ahead. �śI’d suspect Max will offer you a job, therefore you could afford a new pair of boots.” I glanced past him to see Brody was well ahead, so acknowledging Kipp’s presence wouldn’t be a problem, which is why they were talking so freely. There was so much to his statement that sent heat rushing through my blood, I couldn’t restrain my voice. �śFirst off, I make good money at my job,” I snapped. �śSecond, a job to do what?” Zach glanced over his shoulder as he continued to walk ahead. Obviously, he wasn’t concerned about losing his footing. �śNot as much as the department would pay you, and as to the job, you seem to have a real knack for the cold case files.” Oh, now I understood. Cold cases equalled lingering spirits. With my ability, I’d be pretty helpful in solving those cases. That didn’t mean it was something I was interested in. �śWho says I’d agree to help? Trust me, I’ve had just about enough of all this death stuff.” A knowing grin washed over Zach’s face before his head returned to watch his steps. �śIt’s not always a choice, sometimes it’s an obligation.” �śHrmph,” was my grumble of response. �śYou have a gift,” Kipp added from behind me. �śThere must be a reason you’ve been given it. It would be a waste not to use it.” I sighed as deep as I could muster. I’d been annoyed with this part of myself for as long as I could remember. I never thought of it as a way to actually help people. I only helped when they bugged me enough to do otherwise. Had fate brought me together with this bunch of police officers? Was this my path? Could what Zach said be true, was this an obligation? All things I had no answers to. Truthfully, I wasn’t quite sure I wanted them answered. First, I just needed to get through this. There were enough questions swirling in my mind about the present to worry about the future. �śWhat will happen if Hannah’s not here?” �śNothing,” Eddie answered, groaning as he stumbled. �śWe’ll go back to square one and start over.” The confidence in his voice stated something I already believed―Hannah wasn’t wrong. �śAnd if you do find her here, then what?” �śWe’ll call Max and he’ll bring in the forensic team to extract the bones,” Zach replied. �śReally?” I experienced a little flutter of intrigue. �śThat would be kind of interesting to see.” �śIt’s not,” Eddie called out behind me. When I glanced over my shoulder he said, �śIt’s meticulous and incredibly boring.” �śFor you maybe.” I looked back down at my feet to watch my careful steps. �śBut it’s like dinosaur hunting.” We all laughed. �śHow will they know it’s her?” �śThe clothing she’ll wearing will probably give it away. She wore blue jeans and a teal blouse the day she went missing,” Eddie answered. All right, that just seemed out there. I had no experience with this. The idea that her clothing would still be there was a bit farfetched. �śAnd after five years it will still be...you know...in the ground?” �śMore than likely,” Zach confirmed, not looking back as he shrugged. �śAt least pieces of it.” Suddenly, I stumbled on a stick poking out of the ground, but caught myself before I fell to the ground. �śStupid stick,” I complained, finding my footing again. ”I tried to grab you.” Kipp’s voice came hushed and apologetic. I looked back to him and smiled a thank you. He nodded firmly and glanced away. Before he did, sadness reached his eyes again. The one which said it tore at him he couldn’t touch me. As much as I felt the sadness too, I was determined to ignore it. We just needed to get through this part then deal with the rest later. Resolved to push away the pain that lingered beneath the surface, I asked, �śSo what does the forensic team do then?” �śThey will extract the skeleton from the ground, bring them back to the lab and compare dental records. They will also likely take DNA from the parents and see if there’s a match,” Zach replied. I snorted sarcastically. �śNow that’s a call to make, �Śgood afternoon, we believe we’ve found your dead daughter can we take a sample of your blood to prove it’s her?’” �śIn this line of work, no call is ever easy, no matter what it’s about,” Kipp said. In the exact moment, Zach confirmed Kipp’s statement. �śIt’s never easy.” Which made zero sense as to why they had chosen this career. �śThen why do you do it? I mean, it’s so depressing.” Zach glanced over his shoulder, smiled in grand-scale. �śI’d imagine we’re all addicted to the rush of finding a killer.” A rush? Like a stock car racer’s driving rush, jump out of an airplane rush, buying really expensive shoes rush? I just couldn’t place it. �śIt seriously gives you a rush?” �śThe best adrenaline rush that exists.” Eddie chuckled. �śA rush intense enough it makes your cock hard.” I glanced over my shoulder thoroughly disgusted. My feelings surely showed on my face. �śOkay, I’m sorry, that is seriously gross.” The men’s laughter filled the air around me. �śIt’s just the power of it,” Zach added. �śIt’s primal.” I shook my head a little, trying to get away from the yucky feelings that filled me. �śAnd you think I’d accept a job now? Knowing that when we’re close to solving a case your dicks are hard?” I stopped dead and Eddie ran into the back of me. �śShit.” He stumbled, peeling himself off my back. �śSorry.” My gaze flicked between the men, all eyes on me. Then, my gaze skimmed over each of their crotches. �śYou’re not all hard now are you?” When I lifted my gaze, each man was smiling, even Kipp. �śOh my God, you’re all so disgusting.” I waved them forward quickly. �śGo, get.” It only made them laugh harder. Moving on was of the utmost importance now. �śSo, how will finding her body help here?” I suddenly realized how cold I sounded and added, �śI mean, other than it’s nice to find her.” �śFinding the clothing on her is critical,” Zach explained. �śIt’s very possible there is DNA on her clothing, which would give us a big lead on identifying the killer.” I thought on that for a little while, amazed at present day technology and all the wonders it provided. The cliff was only a few steps away and very steep. It also proved the hike wasn’t about to get easier. At the edge of the cliff, a sudden thought popped to mind. �śHow long does this DNA analysis take?” Eddie began to climb down the hill slowly. �śMonths.” His was voice strained as he concentrated on the unsteady terrain. My gaze hit Kipp’s. He smiled, reading my mind perfectly. As much as I wanted to find the killer, and I did want that, it gave Kipp and me more time. That was a happy thought. The climb down was exactly how I thought it would be�"tough. My boots were done in, which displeased me. The rocks decided to scratch the hell out of them as I dug the heels into the dirt to steady myself. Once at the bottom, I followed in behind Zach as we passed the rock to our left and made our way toward the thick bush. I thought the past three quarters of an hour hadn’t been fun. Now, I wished I wore something with sleeves. �śOuch...it hurts,” I squeaked, being poked and prodded by the scratchy leaves of what looked similar to a Christmas tree. �śI agree,” Eddie growled behind me, as he broke branches out of the way. Suddenly, Brody called out, �śOver here.” I moved a branch away from my face to find Brody standing in what appeared to be a path. �śThank the Lord above.” I walked toward him, Eddie and Kipp following behind. Brody opened a bottle of water then placed it to Duke’s mouth, and the dog drinking without hesitation. �śJust let him have a drink first.” We waited a moment, while Duke had his refresher. I was slightly jealous I hadn’t thought to bring water of my own. My mouth was dry and pasty. I questioned asking to share, but decided against it. Doggy germs, no thanks. After Brody sealed the bottle, the men started walking again, leaving me at the back. Oh hell, no. �śWait,” I shouted. They all turned to look at me. I ran forward and stepped between Zach and Eddie. �śThere that’s better.” Zach gave a well-amused grin. �śA little scared, are we?” I pointed down the path, giving him a little wave of my hand. �śJust go will you.” Again, the men laughed. This was becoming a habit. I might have cared, if I wasn’t petrified. Being at the back was not a position I would have stayed in. If anything came at us, Zach would get it first. Did I feel bad about it? Not likely. I didn’t want to be out here in the first place. Only a few minutes passed before Eddie let out a relieved sigh. �śIt’s about time.” I stepped around him and saw the open clearing. I ran my flashlight around the small area. Pink blossoms glowed under the light. Zach turned around from his own examination of the area. �śAll right Brody, let’s do this.” �śLet’s go, boy,” Brody said to Duke, before he began to walk to the center of the clearing. �śSo, what’s going to happen here?” I asked, my flashlight settled against Zach’s chest to see his face better. The full moon actually provided a lot of light. Once my eyes had adjusted, seeing wasn’t so hard now, but it didn’t mean I was about to put the flashlight away. It felt like an extra set of eyes and that was a warm comfort. Zach’s mouth opened to answer, but Brody got to it first. �śJust stand there with the others and I’ll send Duke out on the search.” He stopped in the middle of the open space, leaned down and unclipped Duke’s leash. Then he snapped his fingers and Duke’s attention came straight to his eyes. He waved out. �śRevier.” Slowly, I leaned over to Eddie, not wanting to disturb the dog, I whispered, �śWhat did he tell him?” �śBlind search,” he responded just as soft. The answer didn’t completely make sense, but within minutes, Duke showed me it was just the term to find something unknown. An incredible display, really. Duke started at one side of the clearing and kept his nose to the ground as he ran in a grid formation. �śHow does he see anything?” I whispered, awed by the puppy. �śAll those wrinkles are blinding the poor thing.” �śHe doesn’t need to see.” Zach replied, but kept his eyes on Duke. �śIt’s how they track. The loose skin hinders their eyesight which makes their scent stronger.” �śCool,” was all I could say. By this time, Duke had run the outside of the clearing and now worked in vertical lines from the top of the clearing, right to where we stood at the entrance of the forest. �śHow long does something like this normally take?” �śNot long,” Eddie answered. Kipp took pity on me, explained in further detail. �śIf the body was recently dumped the dog would probably have caught it the second we entered the grounds. Considering Hannah was buried five years ago it will take him a little longer.” Ten minutes later, I began to feel bad for bringing the poor dog. Duke kept at it, going as strong as he had when he first put his nose to the ground, but nothing happened. He hadn’t barked, stopped or whatever he was supposed to do when he found a body. �śI think maybe the lead was wrong.” Before Zach could answer, Brody called out, �śDon’t be so sure about that. Duke has alerted.” When I glanced out, Duke was lying on the ground, his head between his paws and looked as relaxed as any lazy dog on a Sunday afternoon. �śThat’s how he alerts there is a body there?” Zach snorted a laugh. �śWhat were you expecting? Barking, tall wagging, jumping up and down?” Duh? �śAh yeah, that’s exactly what I expected.” Brody glanced back to Duke, his tone reserved. �śThere is a possible body beneath the ground. No one is happy when we make a discovery like this.” �śOh, right.” Instantly, I chastised myself for even thinking such a thing. After a few seconds of feeling like crap, I let myself off the hook. I hadn’t meant to imply this was a happy time. �śWhat’s the plan now?” I asked Zach, then looked at Eddie. �śIt’s time to dig," Eddie replied, handing me a shovel. I took it, then realized what he meant. My look of horror matched his. �śYou don’t expect me to help dig her up?” Zach stepped in, took the shovel from my hand. �śYou and...” he hesitated, glanced at Brody then back to me. �śYou don’t need to see this.” He nodded back toward the entrance to the forest. �śJust wait for us by the creek. Brody can help. Come back in a little while.” I smiled the biggest thank you I could. Zach returned the smile and headed off to fall into step behind Eddie. When they reached where Duke was, I spun around to face Kipp. �śIt’s time to go.” He smiled and nodded. �śLet’s take a stroll.” I followed behind him, but kept glancing over my shoulder. Again, I was at the back, not at all pleased about it. I quickened my steps and ran right through Kipp. My teeth chattered as coldness ran through my blood, but I ignored it and didn’t stop until I was in front of him. Kipp’s chuckle was loud, now behind me. �śWhat can I do to protect you if something sneaks up on you?” �śDoesn’t matter,” I retorted, not ashamed at all I was being a silly girl. �śIt just feels better.” As we walked back to the creek, I hadn’t realized just how beautiful the night was. The full moon created a pretty glow, the air warm without any humidity. �śIt’s so nice tonight,” I said with a deep sigh. �śWouldn’t know,” Kipp responded, sharply. That wasn’t the response I expected. I stopped and looked back at him. �śYou can’t feel that?” He shook his head. �śI have no senses, remember? The air around me just feels cold.” My heart sank a little at the melancholy in his tone. Instead of reacting to it, I returned my gaze forward and walked on. �śWell, it’s one of those nights where the air is warm but fresh.” Kipp said nothing and I never looked back. I kept my eyes on the forest floor lit by my flashlight and knew if I saw what lay in his eyes now, I would crumble into pieces. As the leaves and dirt passed beneath my ruined boots, I had a daunting feeling in the pit of my stomach, the conversation ahead of us made that inevitable. *** � Chapter Twenty � At the creek, I bent down and ran my hands through the water. It was cold but I welcomed it. The walk in the forest had been enough for sweat to gather on my forehead and a couple of beads dripped down my spine. Just as I scooped the water to splash on my face, Kipp said in a quietly, �śI’m not as damned as I thought.” The water hit my skin, an instant rush of rejuvenation flaring through me. I lowered my hands and glanced at him over my shoulder. �śWhy would you think you were damned?” �śNever going to church, committing sins, those types of things.” Slowly, I got to my feet, wiped my damp hands on my jeans and approached him where he sat on a tree trunk. �śI’ve never met a single ghost who seemed perfect, so I think the rules of being accepted into Heaven might not be what everyone thinks.” Kipp laughed. �śApparently, if I fall into that category.” I took a seat on the tree trunk, which had long passed its life, and sat next to him. The main structure of the tree survived, the inside had hallowed out, yet still held together strong. His remark was so surprising, he honestly believed he didn’t feel worthy of dancing with the angels. �śWhat have you done that is so bad you think you deserve Hell?” His expression showed a thousand times of guilt. �śBroken hearts.” �śYou’re a heartbreaker?” I grinned with sass in an attempt to lighten his mood. �śI don’t believe it.” Kipp snorted, shaking his head. �śI’m not lying that my interest in you is a first.” The admission surprised me, but made me smile. I liked being the first. �śSo, you’ve never had a long term girlfriend before?” His eyebrow arched. �śWhat’s your definition of long?” �śAnything longer a month?” �śThen, no.” My brows rose, it just seemed so unlikely. �śNever―ever?” �śBeing a cop, relationships are hard. We work long, strange hours. Most women get bored of it real fast.” Okay, that all made sense. No women would want a man who she only saw on days off, but it still didn’t add up. �śYeah, but you said you broke hearts, not they broke yours.” He let out a long sigh and glanced back to the creek before he answered, �śWhen it came to the job or them, my job was first―always.” Ah ha! So, that’s what this was all about. Now it was coming together. �śThat’s what broke their heart then, it was your choice?” He nodded. This didn’t appear bad to me. It wasn’t as if he made promises he hadn’t kept. �śWell I don’t think you should feel bad about it. Your job was important to you.” He gave a knowing look. �śThat is what I wonder...” His words trailed off, but I didn’t need him to finish. It was obvious where he was going with this. �śWas it the right choice you mean?” �śSomething like that.” He sighed deeply again and looked at the ground. �śI just wonder what my life would have been like if I never made those choices. What if, I switched from homicide to a different sector of the department and worked day shifts? What if, I chose to commit?” �śThose are a lot of ifs.” Kipp glanced up to meet my gaze. �śBesides, think of how many lives you’ve saved. That’s gotta be a guaranteed ticket to Heaven. And anyway, if this didn’t happen we wouldn’t have met.” His expression said I just confirmed what he was thinking. �śI wonder if the reason I met you is to show me what life could have been like and what I missed.” �śI think you’re being too hard on yourself,” I told him honestly. �śI think this is all just a coincidence.” �śYou really believe that?” �śI do. I don’t think there is some underlying magical power here which has brought us together. I really think it was just by chance.” My voice was strong even though every word I’d just spoken was a lie. There were too many twists of fate here that I couldn’t deny. The truth was I hadn’t figured it all out yet. Was I here for him or was he here for me? Until I had the answer, I wouldn’t say a word about it. He didn’t look convinced, though he did say, �śWhatever the reason, the lesson learned was necessary. I’m glad it happened.” �śGlad you died?” I nearly laughed. Kipp wasn’t laughing, though, he was very serious. �śIf it meant it brought me you, then yes, I’m glad I died.” I gave my head a shake as I tried to process. �śYou can’t possibly mean that?” �śWhy...why shouldn’t I?” There were so many answers, it was impossible to choose one to prove my point. Instead of listing them all, I settled on just one. �śBecause, I’m not that special, trust me.” His look remained unchanged, but his eyes demanded I see the truth. �śI beg to differ.” I snorted a laugh, a little uncomfortable at the turn of the conversation. �śYou are being way too kind. You’ve seen only bits and pieces of who I am, trust me.” I raised my eyebrows, inclined my head. �śReally, all the good stuff.” �śI doubt there is anything about you I wouldn’t like.” Oh, he hadn’t been around through a certain time of the month where I turned into the devil himself. �śExperience me through PMS and you’d see what I’m talking about.” Slowly, his hand came up and traced along my jawline, the cold air was welcoming in the warm night. I leaned my head to the side to embrace it as he said, �śI wish I had that long to experience you.” How true were those words? Here came the inevitable sadness I’d been anticipating. I wished we had more time too. A lifetime of time. Wishing for something and getting it wasn’t real life. �śYeah, it sucks.” �śSucks.” Kipp laughed, touching my nose with the tip of his finger to leave an icy spot. �śThat’s one way to put it.” I’d seen ghosts filter through their regrets when they realized they were dead. Of course, now it was personal. Feeling his pain wasn’t in any way enjoyable. But I also knew if I continued to hold onto him like this, when he crossed over it’d be met with not only longing but regret. Not a good way for ghosts to go. It was time to settle him, no matter that my heart told me to do otherwise. �śYour time is up, Kipp.” I said a bit firmer and colder than I felt inside. �śYou can’t dwell on what ifs and what could have been. It’s over. There’s no going back and doing things differently.” His eyes flashed with amusement lingering on a tinge of annoyance. �śAre you trying to make me feel better? If you are, you’re doing a piss poor job of it.” I smiled as his irritation grew. It was nice to see him stirred up. Usually, it was reversed. I liked being the one to get a little flame burning in him. �śFrom what I’ve learned of you, you’re kind and loyal. You have saved lives and brought home loved ones to people who have waited a long time. All of these things are who you were. Your life was that and always will be, but think of what you left behind. All the lives you’ve changed, touched...including mine.” The side of his mouth arched up slightly. �śHow many ghosts have you said that exact line to?” �śI’ve never said...” From his expression, I could tell he didn’t believe me, so I added, �śOkay, well maybe a couple times but with you its more personal. I didn’t know them, so when I said it, I actually didn’t really mean it.” Kipp chuckled. �śYou’re a special woman, Tess.” I rolled my eyes, not taking the compliment. �śYep, special―that’s me.” �śNo, this is something you need to hear. I listened to you, it’s only right you do the same.” I nodded for him to get on with it. He laughed quietly before he continued. �śThis thing you can do, whatever it is, is not anything that would be given to someone unworthy.” I guffawed at the implication of what he was suggesting. �śIt was a fluke from the accident.” He shook his head, firm and steady. �śI highly doubt that.” �śLet me guess this wasn’t a coincidence either?” He grinned and nodded. �śYou know for a person who thought he’d be damned, you sure believe in the magical nonsense.” �śNot magical necessarily, just something...” Kipp drifted off, examining me. I swatted at his face, the cold icy air caused goose-bumps to rise along my skin. �śStop looking at me like that.” His laugh was loud and didn’t move away from my hand. �śLike what?” �śLike I’m some guardian angel on a mission.” He didn’t deny my accusation. �śI don’t know what it is you are, but it’s something far from normal.” This wasn’t an eye-opening experience, definitely not something new. �śI could have told you that much.” �śI guess all I’m saying is all these little hesitations in yourself, the self-doubt and confusion, it’s all without merit. When this is over and I’m gone, just remember what I said. Do you promise me to do that?” That was it, the hold on my tears evaporated and my chin trembled. The words he said, the sweetness in his tone―it made my heart go pitter-patter. �śWhy do you have to be so damn perfect?” He grinned, haughtily. �śBecause I am perfect.” I laughed and a few tears spilled onto my cheeks. �śDon’t push it.” His arrogant grin remained, a deep chuckle escaping his mouth. �śJust remember to use these gifts to help others, don’t make it as difficult as you did for me.” �śOh,” I sputtered, a revelation formed. �śYou think I met you to learn how to help people, don’t you?” His eyes lit with acknowledgment and praise that I was starting to understand. �śI’d suspect that is what you are getting from this, yes.” The more he talked, the more it began to make sense. Just by meeting him, my life had changed dramatically in ways that could never return. My heart had been opened, I used my ability for good and I suspected Zach was probably right. I’d be entering a whole new career. If I hadn’t felt the initial feelings for Kipp like I had, I never would have willingly helped him, and for this long. So, I had my answer―this was for both of us. �śAnd that’s why it’s impossible to regret. Too many good came out of this.” Kipp said before I had a chance to voice my thoughts. I blinked away the remaining tears, feeling myself settle with the recent self-discovery. �śAre you one of those annoying people who are always right?” �śYes,” he said, simply. He stood. �śCome on, let’s get back and join the others. I’d imagine they’ve probably dug deep enough. Anymore time here and you’re likely to make me cry.” He smirked. �śAnd I never do that.” I pushed off the tree trunk, stood and winked. �śToo manly to shed a few tears?” His eyebrow arched and waved out toward the path we came. �śYes.” As we headed back down the rough terrain, we stayed lost in our own thoughts. Just as we reached the entrance to the clearing, a thought surfaced. �śAm I going to barf when I see this?” �śI would imagine it will just be bones now.” The best news I’d heard since I began this little adventure of mine. �śWell, hallelujah for that.” He laughed loudly behind me. �śI find it amusing real life scares you, but ghosts don’t.” �śReal life is far more disturbing let me tell you,” I answered, not looking back at him, as I kept my gaze focused on my feet. �śGhosts can’t hurt you―people are just cruel, and dead people are just gross.” �śWell the thing about real things, if you don’t like it―close your eyes.” When we stepped into the clearing, everything in me wanted to do just that. Dirt was piled to the left side of the four-foot hole. Zach and Eddie were kneeling down and peering into it. Stepping closer to them, I groaned. �śI’m guessing that’s not a dinosaur?” Zach glanced up, dirt smudged across his cheek. �śI’d suspect this is Hannah.” He reached in with a stick and lifted out what looked like a rag. The teal color was still visible, yet faded. �śHer shirt.” �śWhere’s Brody?” Kipp asked suddenly, interrupting my remark about the shirt. I used my flashlight to look around, but didn’t see him or Duke. �śWhat happened to Brody?” I asked, looking back at the guys. Eddie stood and wiped the dirt on his pants off with his hands. �śHe took Duke back to the car and is notifying Max.” He swiped his hands together to remove the excess dirt, it dusted off into the air. �śHe’ll be back.” Suddenly, a cold breeze swept across me and I shuddered. Surprised, I glanced to the right to see Hannah. �śHannah.” �śYes, Hannah,” Eddie said, giving me an odd look. �śWho else would it be?” I rolled my eyes. Sometimes being the only one who could see ghosts was just annoying. �śNo.” I pointed to where Hannah stood. �śShe’s here.” Eddie and Zach both exchanged a look then glanced at empty space. �śI thought you didn’t want to be here?” I asked her. �śWhy have you come, Hannah?” Her gaze was focused on the grave in front of her. �śThat’s me,” she whispered. �śAhhh...we’re not sure.” My heart sank for her. Why had she come here? Nothing about this could have been easy. To witness the sight of her skeleton―I thought that might be worse than if she saw her body the day after she’d been killed. �śDo you remember anything now that you’re back here?” Kipp asked her, moving into detective mode. �śAnything further that could help us?” Hannah thought for a few moments then said, �śI’m sorry, no. Only what I have already told you. I know it was Percy, or whatever his name is, who did it. I know why he did it. But I can’t seem to remember anything else.” �śMind filling us in on what you’re all talking about?” Zach asked, impatiently. I turned toward him. �śKipp asked her if she remembers anything else, but she doesn’t.” �śOf course she doesn’t,” Zach grumbled. �śHey, cut her a break,” I snapped, as if he was about to make her feel bad for what she couldn’t control. �śThey never remember.” Zach’s eyebrows shot up, his expression clearly dumbfounded. �śBut Kipp does?” �śYes.” I nodded, slowly. �śI know this.” I was still trying to figure that one out. I hadn’t forgotten he remembered everything about his life, but with no answers for why, it was put on the back-burner. Eddie’s look equalled Zach’s, his lips pursed in thought. �śThen why can he remember things?” I shrugged, that was a good question. �śI have no idea.” �śMaybe it’s because...” Eddie started. Zach apparently had something more important to say since he cut him off. �śI think when this is over you should try and learn more about why you can do this. There has to be like a group or something.” �śWant me to search them out on Facebook or something?” I laughed. Zach nodded with no amusement, silencing my laughter. �śIt’s a place to start.” Before I could respond about just how ridiculous that was, Kipp intervened. �śHe’s right, you know. There must be others like you. Wouldn’t it be nice not to feel alone?” I scowled. What was this, an intervention? �śHow did this become about me? Focus everyone.” They all grinned at me. Hannah’s hushed voice came through our little squabble. �śIt doesn’t even look like me.” I looked over to her, her gaze focused on her grave as she peered down into it. �śWell, that’d be �Ścause its bones.” Hannah glanced away from the deep hole, met my gaze and smiled. �śWhy hadn’t I noticed that?” Instantly, I felt warm on the inside. It was nice to see a smile on her face given what she was looking at. I glanced to Kipp. He appreciated the sight as much as I was, if his sweet smile had anything to say about it. I focused on Hannah. �śYou have a beautiful smile.” She reached up, ran her hand along her lips. �śI think I forgot I could do that.” Her smile grew rapidly. �śIt feels wonderful.” I waited a moment, wondered what was going to happen next. Would she up and vanish? I suspected it wasn’t about solving the murder for Hannah to cross over. It was about finding her body―bringing her home. Within seconds of my assumption, Hannah’s form began to shimmer. Not missing the opportunity, I talked fast. �śIt was nice to meet you, Hannah.” �śThank you,” she replied, glancing around to the group of us. �śThanks to all of you.” �śShe’s thanking you,” I told Zach and Eddie. �śShe’s leaving now.” Both their eyes widened with amazement. Eddie cleared his throat, then mumbled something similar to, �śGlad to have helped.” �śGodspeed,” Zach said. Eddie burst out laughing. Zach punched him in the arm and glared. �śSeemed like the right thing to say, dickhead.” �śGodspeed.” Eddie laughed again. �śThat’s what you come up with?” He laughed harder. �śGodspeed.” �śAhem,” I interrupted. �śHaving a magical moment here, do you two think you could zip it?” They both listened. Hannah approached Kipp, walked toward him with her arms raised ready for his embrace. �śWithout you none of this would have been possible. I’m sorry for what happened to you, but without it, I’d always be stuck here, like this.” Kipp latched onto her and hugged her fiercely, settling her head on his chest. �śMy peace rests in yours, Hannah.” When she backed away from him, her smile beamed with happiness. For the first time Hannah had life in her eyes again. Those stolen dreams were lost and would always be, but there was something better for her now. Her soul had settled. I’d never really paid attention to this part before, what lay within the ghosts’ eyes right before they crossed over. Normally, I was too annoyed to look or care. Now, I could almost understand the rush the others talked about before. I imagined that it was what I felt right now, and was sure I’d strive to feel it again. Did it arouse me? Hell no. But it did fill me with contentment and purpose. Suddenly, Hannah’s gaze swung over my shoulder, her eyes widened. Her head snapped up and she screamed something, but she’d already begun to fade. I couldn’t hear her words. �śWhat?” I asked and stepped closer. I couldn’t understand why she looked at me as if something was terribly wrong. What had her so upset? I focused on her mouth and tried to make out what she was saying. In one second, her words were clear. �śIt’s him.” *** � Chapter Twenty-One � Time stopped. The killer was here. My heart pounded in my ears. A wave of fear washed over me, my adrenaline spiked. Brody stood, gun raised. Confusion gripped me. My mind raced with a thousand thoughts. How could Brody be the killer? He had dark hair and didn’t match the description. But just as the thought hit me, a memory surfaced―the dirt on his ear was no dirt at all. Hair dye. He had altered his appearance, which was why he hadn’t been picked out in the police department photos. It hadn’t come together until now. The pieces were falling into place. Zach and the others had been so shocked Max sent him to assist in the search. The truth was, he hadn’t. He must have known something was up when he found Zach and me in the file room. Brody had come here with one intention―to kill them all. �śGet down,” Kipp roared. I didn’t hesitate. I dropped to the ground in an instant as the gun erupted with a loud bang that shuddered into my soul. My hands covered my ears as I screamed from the earth-shattering noise. Right then, a body fell in front of me with a heavy thud. In my line of vision, Eddie stared at me as he gripped his side and roared in pain. I screamed again. Footsteps barrelled past me. I looked up to see Zach running full speed toward Brody. Another shot blasted through the night sky, Zach’s shoulder flew back, but he didn’t stop running. Just as Brody cocked the gun, Zach slammed into him with the full force of his body. �śGet up, Tess,” Kipp shouted. �śRun.” I jumped to my feet, wanted nothing more than to get the hell out of here, but my feet seemed stuck, glued to the forest floor. I was being held back, by exactly what, I didn’t know. All I knew was I couldn’t move. �śRun,” Kipp shouted at the top of his lungs again. His expression was filled with worry. Hurriedly, I glanced at Brody and Zach as they beat the hell out of each other. Zach had managed to get the gun away from Brody and it now lay in the grass. Loud shouts and the thumps of two men annihilating each other filled the quiet forest. I couldn’t tell who had the advantage. It appeared to be a pretty even fight. Zach suddenly got the upper hand of straddling Brody while he pummelled his fists against his face. They were skilled cops, Brody apparently knew how to protect himself, and furthermore, knew how to get out of a tight hold. In a quick move, he managed to get out from underneath Zach, and now had him pinned while he issued blows in return. Zach’s forearms took most of the hits, but a few snuck in and I could see the ripple of pain across Zach’s features. �śIt was you?” Zach pushed Brody away from him, jumping to his feet. �śYou shot Kipp?” The two circled each other. �śHannah would have ruined my life. She wouldn’t just keep her mouth shut.” �śSo, you killed her.” Zach lunged forward and blasted him across the chin. �śAn innocent woman?” Brody recovered from the shot instantly, reciprocating with a hard hit into Zach’s gut. �śShe left me no choice.” �śYou shouldn’t have been fucking her in the first place, you’re a married man.” Zach coughed his answer from having his guts tenderized. His hesitation didn’t last long and he ran at Brody, latching onto him around the waist as he slammed the both of them into a tree. I couldn’t take my gaze off the scene. I needed to hear the answers, almost to give myself some closure to this or even to make sense out of why he would end Hannah’s life the way he did. I think I was still in shock knowing it was Brody. It was like a twist out of a Hitchcock murder mystery. �śShe was going to ruin everything, my marriage and job,” Brody gasped, pinned against the tree. Zach landed a hard punch on Brody’s face. Blood trickled down from his eyebrow. �śThat was worth more to you than a woman’s life?” �śShe wasn’t going to ruin it all for me.” Brody laid a good right hook onto Zach’s jaw. �śNot a little woman who all I wanted to do with was fuck.” �śWhat about Kipp?” Zach stretched his jaw out before he returned the gesture, which sent Brody to crumble down the ground. �śHe was getting too close.” Brody stumbled back onto his feet. �śHe knew all about it.” �śYeah, he’s a good cop, which you know nothing about.” Zach lurched forward and pounded into Brody’s stomach a couple times. �śIf you all just stayed out of this,” Brody dodged the hits as best he could. �śIt wouldn’t have worked out this way.” Zach punched him in the side, apparently searching for a kidney he could demolish. �śIf you kept your cock out of this, it wouldn’t have happened at all.” Brody gave Zach a hard push, sending him tumbling back. �śI never wanted this. I never wanted to kill anyone. But I’ve gone this far to protect my life. I won’t let you destroy it now.” He then reached into his pocket and pulled out a switchblade. After a quick flick, a knife was exposed; the shiny metal glowing in the moonlight. I couldn’t see Zach’s expression, but his tense body told me he knew the trouble he was in. He attempted to lunge forward and grab the knife, but Brody managed to slice deep into Zach’s arm. Blood splattered onto the ground. Zach backed away, clutching his arm. He hesitated only a moment then rushed toward Brody, which landed him a knife in the shoulder. His scream rang out around me and snapped me out of my stunned state. My breath gasped out and coherent thoughts came back to me. Apparently, Kipp had been in a similar condition because he suddenly said, �śWhat the hell are you doing...get out of here.” Brody attempted to gouge Zach’s eyes out and Zach did whatever he could to avoid the sharp blade. I tore my gaze from the fight and looked Kipp straight in the eye. �śI have to help him.” Then, I ran―ran like I’d never run before. �śStop...” Kipp roared. Ignoring him, I kept my focus on the gun lying on the ground and never looked back. The sound of Zach fighting for his life was sickening. Deep groans, shouts of pain as metal sliced against bone filled the air around me. Oh god, give me strength here! In seconds, I was there. I reached out before I was even close to the gun and fell to my knees, wrapped my hand around the cold steel. I gripped it tightly, stood, raised it and pointed it in Brody and Zach’s direction. Kipp’s voice was suddenly smooth and stable next to me. �śHave you ever used a gun?” My breath hitched. I was horrified, nervous and on the verge of shitting my pants. �śNo.” �śYou sure you want to do this?” I could tell he wasn’t opposed to the idea. He merely needed to know for peace of mind. I could see Zach was beginning to weaken. Brody had him on the ground, sitting on top of him. Zach was using all of his strength to stop the knife that was very close to plunging into his chest. I couldn’t wait any longer. �śWhat do I do?” Kipp stepped in behind me. The coldness of his presence surrounded my entire body. It provided a much needed comfort and a boost of confidence to know I wasn’t alone here. �śFeet shoulder width apart. Bring your left foot forward a little.” I did as he instructed. �śLean forward slightly, make your firing arm strong, but don’t lock your elbow.” This posture felt entirely uncomfortable. A gun in my hand was just wrong. I pushed the insecurity away. Another life would be lost if I didn’t act. The way it looked now, it wasn’t going to be the one who deserved it. Zach was losing. The knife was only mere centimetres away from his chest. Both men were groaning, struggling, to end this fight. �śClose your left eye,” Kipp said next. �śFocus on Brody―lock in your target.” Doing as he asked, I followed Brody’s movements. The gun wavered with each and every way he turned. It was impossible. �śHow can I lock in on him, they’re moving all over the place.” �śI’ll distract him to get him away from Zach. Just keep your aim on him no matter what. When Zach is clear, shoot and don’t stop shooting until he’s down.” My hand shook at the anticipation of what was ahead. You can do this! You can do this! You can do this! �śTake a deep breath in and don’t let it out until he’s on the ground.” Kipp bolted suddenly. He ran toward the brawling men on the ground. I could see Kipp in my peripheral vision, but I was too focused on Brody to clearly see what his plan was. I knew my chance would be small and this was my only shot. If I didn’t hit him, we’d all be dead. Right then, Kipp came into sight, hovering over Brody. What was he doing? He lingered over him, almost as if he floated. Then, a second later, he dropped down on top of Brody and seemed to enter his body. In an instant, Brody was off Zach and flew straight back with a look of utter horror on his face. I followed the movement and stiffened my form to be ready. Come on...come on...Kipp...get out of there... With a loud gasp from Brody, Kipp shot out of his body and vanished from my line of sight. Not wasting a single moment, I closed my finger around the trigger. The gun exploded sending vibrations roaring down my arms, strong enough to rattle my teeth. Brody fell to the ground. I ran forward, the gun still straight out in front of me. When I stood over top of Brody, I pulled the trigger again and his body jumped. Blood poured from his mouth. His eyes were wide, fading away. I screamed as I never had before, closing my eyes as I fired again, and again. �śTess.” A hand closed around the gun, then I realized, the chamber was empty, no more bullets remained. Slowly, I opened my eyes. Zach’s expression was far beyond worried. �śDid I do it?” My voice came out shaky and rough. Zach smirked and glanced at Brody. �śI’d say that he’s dead.” Hesitantly, I followed his gaze. Yes, Brody definitely wasn’t moving. Blood layered his cotton white shirt. An emotional breakdown was on the brink―I’d just taken a life. I gasped a shuddering breath and dropped the gun as if it burned my skin. Tears filled my eyes and nearly fell, but a voice distracted me. �śTess,” Kipp said softly. After a quick spin on my heels, I met his gaze. His eyes were wide and his look confused me for a second. Right then and there, I realized the most horrible thing had just happened. Horror rose and stole the last parts of my stable mind. The case was solved. His reason to stay was gone. I ran forward, screaming. �śNo. You can’t go yet. I’m not ready. I thought we’d have longer.” At least a week longer to do the DNA testing. But I wasn’t prepared. Nothing in me was ready to let him go. �śTess,” he said again. I reached him and fell to my knees. He joined me so we were face to face. He cupped my cheek, the cold air nearly hurting against my hot flesh, but I welcomed it. It said he was still here. �śI love you, you can’t go. I need you here.” �śI love you, too,” he replied, so very quiet. �śBut Tess...” I closed my eyes tight not wanting to see him go. I couldn’t watch him vanish. �śNo, no, no. I don’t what you to go. I don’t care if that makes me selfish, I’ll be self-centred then. I want to keep you forever. Be a lingering spirit until I can join you.” �śTess...” I raised my head, wanting to scream at the Heaven’s above. �śHe’s mine. You can’t have him. I won’t let you have him.” �śTess.” His voice came again, this time impatient. I opened my eyes, a little annoyed myself. �śWhat? Can’t you see I’m talking to God?” A slow grin spread across his face, his eyebrows lifted. �śYes, I can see that.” �śWell then...what?” He never said anything, just stared intently into my eyes. The minutes ticked by while I was lost in the depths of those eyes that could give me a lifetime of happiness. Then, as each second passed, some sense returned. Slowly, I glanced around. Zach had a phone to his ear with one hand, while the other pressed down into Eddie’s wound as he rolled in pain. My gaze flickered back to Kipp’s, his grin now a full-blown smile. It took a second for me to fill in the rest. I misread his wide eyes, it wasn’t fear―it was surprise. The unbelievable had happened. I gasped a breath and held no restraint on my tears. �śYou’re still here...” �śApparently so.” �śWhat...” I couldn’t wrap my head around this. How could he still be here? �śWhat does that mean?” His smile said it all. �śIt means we have more time...” *** � About the Author � Stacey Kennedy is an avid lover of the paranormal romance and urban fantasy genres. If she isn't plugging away at her next novel, tending to her two little ones, she's got her nose deep in a good book. She lives in Ontario, Canada with her husband. Be sure to drop her a line at www.staceykennedy.com, she loves to hear from her readers. *** � If you’re craving an urban fantasy romance, be sure to check out: � The Willow – The Magical Sword Book One � Available both in ebook format at Liquid Silver Books http://www.liquidsilverbooks.com and print format at online stores. � *** � For more paranormal erotic romance don’t miss: � A Deadly Whisper -The Watchers Book One � Now available in ebook format at Cobblestone Press. http://www.cobblestone-press.com/ � *** � Praise for Stacey Kennedy � The Willow – The Magical Sword Book One �ś�ŚWitches, shapeshifters and vampires take center stage in this fast-paced tale, but even these paranormal creatures cannot distract from the beautiful love story between the hero and heroine. Kennedy has created a world that readers will want to visit again and again!” ―RT Book Reviews The Wicked – The Magical Sword Book Two �śThis book should seriously come with a warning label. The Wicked brings you back into the lives of Nexi and Kyden with such heat and sizzle that it’s guaranteed to leave scorch marks on your fingers.” ―The Romance Reviews The Devil’s Kiss – The Magical Sword Book Three �śAnother fascinating plot was explored excellently in The Devil’s Kiss, which like all the others was both original and most enjoyable to read about. In fact, The Devil’s Kiss is probably the most addictive book of the series so far, as after getting fond of Nexi and Kyden’s relationship; it is hard to put the book down when their relationship is being pushed to the limit.” �"Nocturne Romance Reads First and Last – The Magical Sword Book Four �śThe conclusion to this extremely engrossing series surpasses all of my expectations and they were pretty high. The author kept me on the edge of my seat wondering if Nexi was powerful and dedicated enough to save the world. Her relationships with her friends in the Otherworld and Earthworld are developed even more fully and her relationship with Kyden grows and strengthens. The evil beings in the Underworld and their plans to take over everything made for a masterful plot. �"The Romance Studio An Everlasting Bite – The Blue Bloods Book One �śMs Kennedy’s first book in her Blue Blood series a wild adventure, full of suspense, romance and enough sexual tension to heat up the planet. This book was enjoyable to read and I didn’t see the end coming.” �"Got Erotic Romance Reviews Silent Howl – The Blue Bloods Book Two �śBriggs and Rynn have a wonderful romance story and Rynn learns to embrace her wolf and live more by the pack ways. Briggs is one of my favorite hero’s, he maybe a beta to his alpha leader, but Briggs can be alpha and he shows this to Rynn. OMG! It was one hot scene, so be careful reading this book because you may find yourself saying �śI want my own Briggs.” LOL. I simply love Rynn; she is a heroine that I wish I could be anytime.” �"Bitten by Paranormal Romance A Deadly Whisper – The Watchers Book One �śFrom the moment they spot each other, Knox and Paxtyn have great chemistry that sizzles off the pages. Ms. Kennedy has just enough snarkiness in this book to be amusing and not overwhelm the book with it. The readers will find themselves snickering and crying with the characters. I highly recommend this book. Read it, go get it right away. ” �"Happily Ever After Reviews Whispers of Evil – The Watchers Book Two �śStacey Kennedy has another hit with Whispers of Evil, book two in Stacey’s extremely hot paranormal romance series. This is a fast romance that will have you hanging on to find out how Griffin is going to get Nayeli to give him her heart, bare and exposed (loved that at the end.)” �"Bitten by Paranormal Romance *** � *** �