Annie

Please note: This is copyrighted (©) by me, Tammtamm. Please do not copy it or save it without my permission. Thank you. I began writing this story back in the spring of 1995... I do that alot... I start stories, leave them alone, find them after weeks, months, years... and then I see where I can take them to from where I stopped them. None of them are finished. It's just that when I get an idea... it becomes so overwhelming that I have to follow that particular story until something else comes along or I can go back to one of my other stories. This one is only 106 pages long but nowhere near finished. I've added it so that it gives my ever faithful reader base something "new" (to them) to read and gives others something to read other than fan fiction. PLEASE PLEASE send me feedback (comments, questions, etc...) at stories@iwuvjoey.com. Or feel free to email me at tammtamm@bigfoot.com. Thanks for visiting and Happy Reading!

"Derrick, I hate this machine so it's only fitting that your answering machine get this message. I can't go on this way. It's over between us. I don't know where you've been the past two weeks, I just know that I feel more alone than before we started this relationship. I left your things in a box in the front hallway and the key is in the plan next to the door. Goodbye, Derrick. I'll always love you." Annie hung up her phone. She was working late because she didn't want to go home and face her sister yet again about how another relationship had just gonie to hell.
“Excuse me, Ms. Dennison?” Annie’s assistant stuck her nose in.
“Yes, Kath...what is it?”
“Two detectives are here to see you.”
“Please, show them in.” Annie got a knot in her stomach.
“Ms. Dennison? I’m Detective Torres and my partner is Detective Adams.”
“Yes, I know Detective Adams. He was my brother’s partner. What can I do for you gentleman?”
“Annie...Derrick’s been murdered.” Jonathan Adams said as gently as he could. Annie’s knees buckled as she reached for her desk to steady herself after gasping in disbelief. Detective Torres helped her into the first chair available.
“Ms. Dennison?” her assistant came running into the room.
“Please, get Annie a glass of water.” Det. Adams told the assistant. “Annie, I’m sorry, but we need to ask you some questions.” he knelt down beside her.
“What happened?” she managed to ask.
“Let’s not talk about that right now. When was the last time you saw Derrick?” he asked.
“Um, Sunday night the ninth. We had dinner and walked along the river. Derrick was leaving the next morning for a business trip in Tokyo. I haven’t heard from him since.”
“When was he due back?” Detective Torres asked.
“The fourteenth was tentative. He said he’d call with the details but he never did. I didn’t think anything of it. I’ve been calling his house ever since.” Annie started crying harder. Kathy came in with a glass of water.
“Let me call your sister to come and take you home?” Det. Adams asked. Annie nodded.
“I’ll call her from the assistant’s desk.” Detective Torres left the room. Annie took a sip of water. She couldn’t believe Derrick was dead.
“I’m sorry about Derrick, Annie. Todd and I really liked him.”
“Thanks, Johnny. Have you notified his parents?”
“Yeah, his mom’s worried about you though.”
“Before you two came in, I had called his house to break things off. I couldn’t take the weeks of not hearing from him anymore.”
“You two were having problems?”
“No. When he was here, we were so much intertwined. Day in, day out, but then he’d go on a business trip and I wouldn’t hear from him until he got back. He kept saying he’d start calling more often, but he never did.” Annie walked over to the other side of her desk and picked up the picture of them in front of his parents house.
“Annie, I’m going to find out why this happened. I promise you.” Jonathan told her.
“I don’t think I want to know why it happened, Johnny.”
“I called Todd. He’s coming home to help.”
“The last thing Todd needs is to be back here in the town that his wife was murdered by two cops because Todd wouldn’t become corrupt.” Annie shot out.
“He wants to be back here to help you. He needs to be back here to get past all that. You and your sister are all that’s left of your family. You need him as much as he needs you.”
“I’m not going to argue with you, Johnny.” Annie sat down, put her head on her desk, and began crying again.
“I’m going to give you some time alone, Ann. I’ll be right outside.” Detective Adams left Annie alone in her office.

“Is Ms. Dennison alright?”
“She’ll be fine, Kathy. Why don’t you go on home. She’s finished work for the day.” Detective Adams said.
“Her sister’s not home.” Detective Torres told Detective Adams.
“We’ll take her then. I don’t want her to be alone.”
“John...”
“Look Ryan. I’ve known her since she was in pig tails. Both of her parents are dead and her brother is my ex-partner. She needs to be around family right now. Problem with it?”
“No, not at all. I was just going to say that I’m going to go get the car. Don’t be so defensive. I’d do the same thing.” Ryan said and walked away. Detective Adams knocked softly on the door to Annie’s office.
“Come in.” Annie said. She was trying to compose herself.
“Your sister’s not home yet so Detective Torres and I will take you home. Is that alright?”
“I can drive myself, Johnny.”
“I don’t think you should be alone. C’mon now. Don’t argue with me.” he pleaded.
“Alright. Thank you. Has Derrick’s murder reached the press yet?” Annie began gathering some papers
“Everything but his identity. That will probably be available for the 11 o’clock news though.”
“Thanks for the warning, let’s go.” Annie said.

“Thanks for the ride gentlemen. I’ll be down in the morning to talk with you both some more.” Annie said as she got out of the car.
“No. The deal is that I stay until Sarah comes home.” Detective Adams replied.
“Then how will you get home?”
“A cab. Ryan, I’ll see you later.” John Adams got out of the car and walked with Annie into her building.
“Ms. Dennison, your brother left a message for you to call him on his car phone.” the front desk clerk said when she and Det. Adams approached the desk.
“Thank you Jeremy. Did my sister leave a message?”
“Just that she left you a note up in the apartment. I’ve also got dozens of calls from reporters for you concerning Mr. Masters.”
“Jeremy, if you get any more of those calls, refer them to the Police Department.” Annie said flatly.
“Here’s my number at the department. Then tell them if they call again, they’re harrassing you and you’ll have to ask them to spell their name so that you can spell it correctly on the lawsuit.” Detective Adams explained.
“I remember you, your Todd’s partner.” Jeremy grinned.
“That’s right. I’m John Adams. Just tell the press what I told you and they should leave you alone. C’mon Annie. Let’s get you upstairs.” Det. Adams said. Annie walked over to the elevator with the Detective.
“Johnny, I really just want to be by myself. Please.”
“And let you go into your little world where you won’t talk to anyone and deny everything, no way. I’m staying here and that’s final!” he replied as they entered the elevator.
“You haven’t changed a bit. Except the hair. It’s shorter.” she sighed. She knew there was no way she’d be alone for the next few days.
“Neither have you.”
“Yeah, well, these things will happen.” the elevator opened to the floor of her apartment and they both walked over to her door.
“Give me your keys. I’ll open the door.” Johnny told her. She gave him the keys. She noticed her hands trembling as she gave them to him. “You’re afraid of something. What is it?”
“I don’t know. I just have this eerie feeling.” Annie said.
“Everything will be okay. You’re just going into shock over Derrick. Let’s get you inside.” Johnny opened the door. He was right, the tears started pouring as soon as she walked through the front door and collapsed on the nearest chair. Johnny closed the door and went straight to the kitchen and turned on the tea kettle. All Johnny wanted to do was to hold her and comfort her but he knew that if he did, he wouldn’t be able to let go. Fifteen minutes later he came out of the kitchen to see that Annie had moved to the seated window and was hugging a pillow as she looked out over the city.
“I made you some tea.” Johnny said to her softly.
“Since when did you become so domesticated?” she managed to say.
“It’s your brother’s fault. Katey and he use to tell me to help myself around the house, which I did. You all made me feel like a part of your family.”
“Thanks for the tea.”
“You’re welcome. I’m going to be in the den.
“The computer’s hooked up if you need to call into the office and check your messages.” she replied.
“Great, thanks. If you want to talk, I’ll be in the den.” Johnny stated again. Johnny left her alone and went into the den. He left the door to the den open so that he could keep an eye on her. She was right, the computer was hooked up. He called Detective Torres’ number at the office. He knew Ryan went straight back to the precinct.
“Detective Torres.” Ryan answered the phone.
“Hey partner. Knew you’d go back there. Anything new?”
“I have a copy of the coroner’s report. Mr. Masters was tortured. Betsy found a lethal amount of sodium pentathol in his system. Detective Jacks said that they found an antique dressing watch in the trash can about 20 feet away from the body along with his wallet, empty of course. There was an inscription on the watch. It says “To my Annie, I love you, Derrick.”
“Jesus. I wonder if she knew about it.”
“Where are you?”
“Annie’s place, listen...I need the dial-in number to connect with the mainframe. Do you have it?”
“Sure...555-1280. How is she?”
“Upset and scared. Reporters have left dozens of messages for her and her sister has taken off for a few days. She probably doesn’t know about Derrick yet.”
“Wait, there’s more. The coroner found black hairs and skin and blood underneath Masters’ fingernails. They’ve been sent out for testing now. Also a blue button was found next to the body. Betsy also notes that he had numerous broken bones and internal bleeding at the time of death.”
“We’ve got our work cut out for us, partner. Did Jacks say if anyone’s come forward and seen anyone suspicious?”
“Yup, it’s in the system. Check your messages. I’m going to take a ride out to Masters’ office. His boss is waiting for me. Simms is assisting.”
“Good. Let me know what you find. I’ll be here until further notice.” Johnny said and hung up the phone. He turned on the modem and dialed into the police department.

“Annie?” Todd Dennison opened the door to his sister’s apartment. “Annie?” he continued to ask as he put his duffle bag and suitcase down. Johnny heard him come in. It was after midnight.
“Ssshhh. She’s sleeping.”
“John! What are you doing here?” Todd said.
“Sarah went on a vacation with some guy. I didn’t want to leave Annie alone.” the men embraced.
“So Sarah may not know yet?”
“I don’t think she does.”
“I’m going to go check on Annie. Don’t go anywhere. I want to know everything you know.” Todd told his ex-partner.
“Wasn’t planning on it. She’s sleeping on the window seat. I’ll be in the den.”
“Annie? Annie? I’m here.” Todd brushed his sister’s hair away from her eyes. She woke instantly.
“Toddy, oh, Toddy.” she said and hugged him.
“It’s going to be alright. I’m here and Johnny and I will find out what’s going on. C’mon, let’s get you into bed.”
“I can’t go in there, please don’t make me.”
“What is it? Why not?”
“That’s where we last... I just can’t go back in there yet.”
“At least come lie down on the couch then, okay. Tomorrow, we’ll figure things out again. I promise. Geez, you’re head’s warm. Do you have a headache?”
“A little.”
“Couch. Now. I’ll get some aspirin. and your sweats.” Todd directed his little sister. She didn’t argue. Todd brought her everything and explained that he would be in the den with Johnny if she needed anything.
“Thanks for coming, Todd.”
“Hey, I’m your brother. Did you really think I wouldn’t come back here?”
“I know. I just wish this never happened. I wish Derrick was here with me right now.”
“I know you do. I wish Katey were here too, but they’re gone now and we have to keep on living. For us and for them.”
“You’ll find who did this?” she asked.
“I’m going to do everything I can to find out who did this and why.” Todd assurred his sister. “Now, here’s the aspirin, some water, and your sweats. Try to go back to sleep.” Todd said and grabbed some pillows off the window seat for her.
“Where are you going to sleep?”
“Your room after I talk with Johnny. I’ll see you later.” Todd said.
“Okay, John. What’s going on?” Todd said after he tucked his sister in. John filled him in on what the police department knew.
“...and that’s everything right now. It’s just getting onto the news stations and the networks.” John turned on the TV set.
“...Executive Derrick Masters was found murdered in a JFK terminal early yesterday morning. Mr. Masters was a prominent companion to Anne Dennison, CEO of The Katieann Music Record Company. Calls to Ms. Dennison have gone unanswered at this time. Mr. Masters family will release a statement sometime later today. Police investigations are in the early stages. Again, Atlanta Pharmeceuticals Executive Derrick Masters was found murdered in a JFK terminal early yesterday morning. Stay tuned to this station for details as they occur.” Johnny turned down the sound.
“Annie’s going to be hounded by the press again.”
“She’s tough. We’ll help her through it.”
“She and Derrick were so close.”
“She called him yesterday, before we told her, to break up with him. Apparently he use to go for weeks without calling her. He told her he’d call her when he got back from Tokyo. He never did.” Johnny explained.
“They’re both workaholics so that’s nothing new.”
“She was getting tired of feeling alone, Todd. Do you know that most of the times I’ve seen her out and about, Derrick was no where in site. No where. Sometimes she’d just fade into the background of the club or the restaraunt and leave unnoticed.”
“I know I told you when I left to keep an eye on her, but did you have to spy on her life?”
“I wasn’t spying, Todd. She has the same circle of friends that I do, the same ones you use to. I was keeping an eye on her for you, and for me. I only want her to be happy and when she wasn’t with Derrick, she wasn’t happy.”
“I’m sorry. I’m just tense. The drive was long. I’ll see you in the morning. Are you staying or going?”
“If you don’t mind, I’ll just sack out here. I hate taking cabs this late at night.”
“Not a prob, man. See you in a few hours.” Todd said and left the room.

 A few hours later...Johnny was still working on the computer when he heard a noise at the front door. No one was expected so he drew his gun and tiptoed to the door.
“Aaahhh!” Sarah screamed as Johnny opened the door and she found the gun pointed at her.
“Sarah?”
“Johnny? What are you doing here? Oh my god! Is Annie okay?” Sarah pushed past Johnny before he could say anything.
“Who are you?” Johnny asked a man standing in the doorway.
“Brad Simms, sir. I’m Sarah’s husband.” the man introduced himself.
“Sarah, please don’t wake her. She’s had a rough night.” Johnny turned away from the man and said to Sarah.
“We were on our way to Maryland after the J.P.s office when we heard about Derrick. I tried calling, but all Jeremy would say was that she wasn’t to be bothered and that he had strict orders. Of course, I tried the celly but there was no answer on that either.” Sarah whispered. “What happened.”
“Not tonight, Sarah. I need to get some sleep. Todd’s here now. Leave Annie to sleep and go to Brad’s, okay? But, be here tomorrow. She’s going to need you.” Johnny suggested.
“Alright. I’ll want to know everything tomorrow, okay?”
“I promise. Oh, about this marriage thing, you have alot of explaining to do.” Johnny warned.
Sarah and her new husband left the apartment.

 “Johnny, Detective Torres is on the phone.” Todd shook Johnny awake. Johnny was sitting in a chair across from Annie.
“Thanks, man. Annie’s been tossing and turning alot. You might want to stay out here with her.” Johnny said as he managed to get out of the chair. He looked at the chart. 6:30am.
“I will. Go talk with Torres. It sounds important.” Todd said.
“Ryan? You been up all night?”
“I found a threatening letter, a videotape, and some pictures of Masters and Ms. Dennison. Looks like someone was threatening Mr. Masters. The Captain wants to put protection on Ms. Dennison. We’re suppose to see him as soon as possible to discuss it. How is she?”
“Still the same. Uh, I’m bringing Todd Dennison in with me.”
“That’s another thing...I read up on your ex-partner. Apparently he’s been working undercover according to Cap. He’s been working for the mob.”
“I know that already. We’ll be in soon.”
“What’s up?” Todd immediately asked when Johnny came out of the den.
“Someone was threatening Masters. Ryan found a letter, a videotape and some pictures of Annie and Masters. Cap wants protection on Annie. Also wants to see me asap.”
“I’ll wake her, you go wash up.” Todd said. “Annie? Annie?” Todd shook her sister.
“What...what is it?” Annie said and sat up.
“We’re going down to the police station. There have been some new developments.” Todd said.
“Do I have time to take a shower?” Annie said half awake.
“Sure.” Todd said. Annie went back towards her bedroom. She turned and looked at her brother. “I’ll get you something to wear.” Todd said. He didn’t ask her why she didn’t want to go back into her bedroom. Annie dialed Derrick’s number, it was automatic for her. The first thing she did every morning. When she realized what she was doing, she dropped the phone and gasped. Johnny heard the thud and opened the bathroom door. She jumped.
“Hey...what’s going on here?” he said softly.
“I just caught myself doing my morning ritual. I’d call Derrick right before I’d get in the shower.” tears formed in her eyes.
“It’s alright, Annie. It’s going to take some time to get use to.” Johnny said.
“Here Annie. Is this outfit okay?” Todd handed her her old trustee jeans and t-shirt, socks, underclothing and cowboy boots.
“Ever faithful. Thanks, Todd.” Annie smiled.
“I’ve missed that.” Todd said suddenly.
“Missed what?”
“Your smile. I didn’t realize that until just now.”
“Yeah, well, get ready. You’re about to find out alot of stuff since moving away.” Annie said. She looked at Johnny.
“I’ll be out in five minutes.” Johnny said.
“Okay, um, tea...I need tea.” Annie said and put her clothes down on the chair in the hall before going toward the kitchen.
“Johnny, she’s not taking this well at all.”
“I know. It’s just as bad as when you lost Katey and the baby. We’ll get her through it though. Okay?” Johnny claimed.
“What do you mean?”
“Do you remember the day of the funeral? We couldn’t find Annie? When I did find her, she was parked in front of your house as if she were waiting for Katey to come out so they could go to work. She hates when the normalcy is disrupted or when something tragic happens. Her coping mechanism goes beserk. Let me finish up in here and then we’ll talk more.” Johnny said. Todd nodded and went to find his sister.

“Bathroom’s free.” Johnny said a few minutes later. Annie was so grateful. She wanted to turn on the shower to drown out the sobs that were waiting to be set free. She darted past him without saying a word.
“Did Jeremy say where Sarah and her friend were going?”
“No...Todd, Sarah showed up around 4:30 this morning with some guy. Said they had eloped and when they heard the news about Derrick they headed back here.”
“Eloped? What’s the guy’s name?”
“Simms, Bradley Simms.”
“I’ll be darned...she said that they would probably do that.” Todd said.
“I wonder if he’s any relation to Steve Simms from the department?” Johnny said aloud.
“That’s why the last name sounds so familiar. Bradley was just brought in as a new assistant D.A. His brother is Steve Simms.” Todd replied.
“How do you know this?”
“Checked up on Bradley as soon as Sarah said things were getting serious between them.” Todd explained.
“Still the sly one, Todd.” Johnny grinned. He took out his wallet. “I have the DA’s office number right here. We could call it and have the answering service page Bradley.”
“Do it.” Todd handed him the phone and went back to Annie’s bedroom to change.

 “Well?”
“Done...we should be getting a call from him any minute.” Johnny replied.
“Annie’s sobbing in the bathroom. Sarah had better call soon.” the phone rang. It was Sarah.
“Sarah, it’s Todd. I need you to meet us at the police station.”
“What’s going on?”
“Just meet us there, alright? And you might as well bring your husband.” Todd said and hung up the phone. “Annie?”
“Give me a few more minutes.” Annie shouted from the bathroom. Johnny picked up the phone.
“What are you doing?”ownstairs for a car. We’re not taking Annie’s until the bomb squad has a chance to sweep it. Then I’m calling Ryan to have him send them over.”
“Good idea. I should’ve thought of that.”
“Being undercover like you have been, you tend to forget some procedures.”
“Well, I’m hoping my cover is still active. This case is going high-profile so I might need to play dress up if you know what I mean.”
“What did you tell everyone.”
“Family emergency. Sister’s boyfriend was killed. She needs me at home.”
“How did you convince them that you were a cop gone bad?”
“The incident down here. Wrap sheets say I’m the prime suspect in the murder of the two cops who killed my wife as well as drug trafficking and stolen goods. Stuff like that.”
“How long you been under?”
“18 months. Can’t wait for this to all be over. Annie...”
“Where’s my purse?”
“Right here.” Johnny held it up.
“Let’s go then.” Todd said. And they left the apartment and the building without incident.

 

“Annie...you’re looking good.” Capt. Paul Clooney said when he saw her walk in with his two favorite detectives.
“Uncle Paul...I should’ve known you’d never retire.” Annie said as they embraced.
“I’m so sorry about Derrick. Ryan Torres and Steve Simms have been investigating and want to brief you if you’re up to it. First though, Mrs. Masters is too fragile to identify his body, would you mind doing it?” Paul asked as gently as he could.
“I will.”
“Good. Second, I’ve been in touch with your security force at the Record Company. JJ Miller and Steve Jones are going to be assigned to you along with Johnny and your brother until further notice.”
“What’s going on.”
“Ryan and Steve will brief you. They’re waiting in the employee break room.”
“Thanks, Paul.”
“Let’s go.” Paul pointed the way.
After all the introductions were out of the way and everyone had something to drink, Ryan began to speak.
“Ms. Dennison...”
“Annie.”
“Annie, these items were found in a trash bin near Mr. Masters the day that he was found.” Steve Simms layed out the antique dressing watch, Derrick’s wallet, and a letter addressed to Annie. Annie looked at the wallet.
“I gave him the wallet last Christmas. I don’t recognize the watch. I collect them, but that one is not a piece of my collection.” Annie said. Ryan sat down next to her. Todd stood behind her and Johnny on the other side of her.
“We assume that this was to be a gift to you, Annie. And the letter was found in his jacket. With your permission, we’d like to photocopy the letter. We haven’t opened it yet. We wanted your okay.” Ryan stated. Annie lifted the watch and put it on her palm to look at closely. She flipped it over and read the inscription. Tears started falling. Johnny handed her the box of tissues.
“Can I see the letter?” she managed to ask.
“Excuse me...” there was a knock at the door. The Captain opened the door.
“Uncle Paul?” Sarah asked.
“Can I have some privacy please?” Annie asked. She wanted to read the letter without everyone watching her.
“Sure, sis. Everyone out.” Todd said. “Sarah, wait for me.” Todd waited until everyone left.
“Annie, you haven’t had much to say.”
“I’m not sure where to start, Todd. Just let me read this in peace okay. Then we’ll go down so I can see Derrick one last time and then I’ll deal with the bodyguards and anything and everything else. Okay?”
“Don’t feel guilty about the phone call to break things off okay. You loved Derrick and that is all that matters.” Todd stated.
“Thanks, I needed to hear someone say that.” she gave her brother a hug.
“Sarah and I will be right outside.”
“Thanks.” Annie waited until Todd left the room to open the letter.
“Todd, how is she?”
“Sarah...I’m glad you’re back.” Todd and she embraced.
“What’s going on? What happened to Derrick?” Sarah asked. Brad was talking with the Captain and the detectives.
“What all do you know?”
“Just what’s been on the news.”
“Annie doesn’t know this yet, but someone’s been threatening Derrick. One of the detectives found a threatening letter, videotape, and some pictures of Annie and Derrick. I haven’t seen any of this information yet, but we’re going to have some protection on her all the time.”

Johnny had gone into the room next to the break room to see what she was doing. Annie had left the letter alone and stared at the watch for awhile. Annie finally brought herself to look at the letter.

 

My dearest Annie, I’ve been here in Tokyo missing you so much. This job has become such a burden. It’s made me sacrifice the most important thing in my life. You. You’ve been so patient and loving and caring with me since this promotion. You’ve let my career come before our relationship and you’ve never really complained about it. I’ve decided to resign my current position if A.J. does not approve my proposal that my immediate staff managers can be delegated some of my responsibilities. I don’t want to sacrifice what we have any longer. I want to be with you forever. I want to marry you and have children with you and love you forever. This last trip has made me realize how empty my life is without you.  I’ve never really given you the time or the attention that you deserve, that we deserve. So...what do you say...would you mind being married to a house hubby for awhile? I want to propose to you someplace romantic but if I don’t do it now on this piece of paper I’ll probably chicken out. I got the antique watch because I wanted you to have something special besides an engagement ring. I figure we can go out and look for the ring together. I want you to like it too. Am I presuming too much? Probably, but I need to take this chance. Mom warned me that if I wasn’t careful, I would lose you and I don’t want to lose you. Not ever. Please, please give me another chance. Let’s take a vacation somewhere. Kathy and Doug can run the company for a week. We can go to Disneyworld or Chicoteague Island. Anywhere or nowhere, as long as we’re together so we can get back to the way we first were. Please? I’ll give you a few days...okay, a few hours to think this over and then I want to sweep you off your feet and away for the next week. Say yes....I love you. Forever, Derrick.

 

Annie wept. Johnny wanted to go to her, to hold her, but then he couldn’t be objective. Annie laid her head down on the table and cried. Johnny waited a half hour before knocking on the Break room door.
“Annie?” he asked.
“Um, come in.” she said. Her eyes were all puffy.
“You okay?” he asked.
“Yes, I’m okay. Where’s Todd?”
“Right here.” Todd said and came from behind Johnny.
“Detective Torres can photocopy the letter.” Annie said. She folded it and put it back in its envelope and handed it to Johnny. “Todd, I want to see Derrick now.” she said.
“Okay. I’ll go tell Cap.” Todd said and the men left her alone again. Sarah snuck in.
“Annie...I’m here.”
“Oh, Sarah! He’s gone!” Annie said as she rushed to her sister. Sarah opened her arms and let her sister cry. 

“Annie, Mrs. Masters is on the phone. She’d like to talk with you.” the Captain knocked on the door and peeked his head in.
“What line?” she asked.
“Line three.”
“Evelyn? Hi.” Annie composed herself to talk to Derrick’s mother.
“Annie, dear. How are you?”
“As good as can be expected. How are you? And Lou? Does Lou know?”
“He’s on his way back from Paris. The kids will be here tomorrow.” Lou was Derrick’s father and the kids were Derrick’s three sisters and four brothers.
“That’s good. Evelyn, can we talk later?”
“Of course dear. Please come over tonight. Lou and I would like to see you.”
“I’ll call you back later, okay?” Annie said.
“Okay, thanks dear.” Mrs. Masters hung up the phone. Annie put down the phone.
“I can’t stop crying.” She looked at Todd. He knew the pain she was going through.
“In time, you’ll be able to. C’mon, time to go.” Todd assured her.
“I’m just going to go home and move some of my things.” Sarah said.
“Why?”
“We’ll talk about that later. It’s really for the best right now.” Sarah said.
“I’ve got the number where she’ll be, so you can call her later.” Todd said.
“Here’s the letter back, Annie. Thank you. I’m so sorry for your loss.” Detective Torres said.
“Thank you. Do you need the watch for evidence? I’d like to take it with me too.” she replied.
“The coroner’s already photographed the watch and the wallet. Please, take them with you.” he suggested. Paul Clooney handed her the bag that they were in.
“You’re going to be well guarded from now on, Annie. Sometimes it’s going to be overwhelming, but it’s for your safety.” the Captain told her.
“I understand. Thanks for your help. I appreciate it.” Annie said.
“Call if you have any questions. Don’t let these goons bully you.” the Captain said.
“I promise.”

 “It’s not a pretty sight, Ms. Dennison. Are you sure you want to be in there alone?” Detective Torres asked Annie at the Coroner’s office.
“I have to do this.” Annie insisted. “After I identify him, I want some time alone with him.”
“You’ve got it, squirt.” Johnny said. Todd looked at him. “We’ll be out here, okay?” Johnny said.
“Annie...brace yourself.” Detective Torres said when he and Annie went into the room. He had the coroner lift the sheet down to Derrick’s chest.
“Oh my god...it’s Derrick.” Annie gasped and nodded her head. The coroner went to put the sheet back on but Torres stopped her.
“I promised Ms. Dennison she could have some time alone with him.”
“Of course.” both the coroner and Detective Torres left the room. Annie looked around for a chair and found a stool under the gurney. She sat down and took hold of Derrick’s hand.
“I can’t believe I won’t ever have your arms wrapped around me anymore. That I’ll never see you’re quirky smile when you’ve done something silly to make me laugh. Or how you make up for going weeks without a phone call to me when you were away on business. You know, I saw the letter you wrote for me. I’d a married you in a heartbeat. I can’t say goodbye to you. Just godspeed. I am always going to love you.” Annie said. She kissed his hand and walked back outside where she collapsed in Johnny’s arms.
“No work for you today. We’re taking you home where I’m going to make a big italian meal for you and you’re going to eat.”
“Please take me to his apartment.” Annie asked softly.
“Annie...I don’t like that idea.” Todd said.
“Todd, please. I want to get the things he gave me back. I want his oversized sweater that has his smell on him. I want the little teddy bears and silk roses.” Johnny put Annie down next to the car.
“Johnny, do you know if Torres went through it yet?”
“Hold on...I can only dial so fast.” Johnny said as he whipped out his cell phone.
“Here, Annie. Get in the car. Photographers to your left. John, get in.” Todd said. He opened the back door and pushed both Annie then Johnny in the back seat. Closed it and ran around to the driver’s side, got in and sped off.
“Ryan...did you check out Masters’ apartment yet?”
“I’m there now. Why?”
“Annie wants to get some stuff that she put in there yesterday back.”
“Someone’s ransacked the apartment. What time was she here?”
“Annie...what time were you at Derrick’s apartment yesterday?”
“Around 6:30am.”
“Ryan, we’ll be there in 5 minutes. She says she was there around 6:30am.”
“Find out if she came all the way into the apartment. There is a box next to the door but it looks like that was untouched by whomever ransacked the place.”
“Okay.”
“Wait. We found some more threatening letters and pictures. And a private eye is on the answering machine. Simms is tracking the PI down now.”
“Thanks. We’ll be there in a few minutes.”
“What’s going on?” Annie said as soon as Johnny turned his cell phone off.
“What exactly did you do with the box Annie?”
“I opened the door and slid the box in, closed the door and locked it, why?”
“You didn’t go into the apartment?”
“No. I couldn’t bare it.”
“His place has been ransacked.”
“This is becoming more hellish by the moment.” Annie declared.
“Uh-oh, more idiots with cameras.” Todd said. Annie put her face into Johnny’s chest as Todd went into the parking garage.
“God, they’re everywhere.” Annie said. “You want to park in B2A, that is Derrick’s extra parking spot.” Todd found the parking spot. “Isn’t that Derrick’s car?”
“Yeah. He always had the airport pick him up and drop him off.”
“Does he have a car alarm?”
“No.” As soon as Annie said that, Todd backed out of the parking space.
“Todd, you and Annie move out of here, I’ll call the bomb squad.” Johnny said.
“We’ll wait until you get back.” Todd said.
“Alright. I’ll be right back.”
“What the hell is going on?” Todd looked back at his sister.
“I don’t know, Todd. You’re the one working for the mob. You tell me?” she shot back.
“Wait a sec, don’t bring my undercover work into this.”
“I’m sorry, I just don’t know what’s going on. Why someone would kill Derrick.” Annie said.
“Cap gave strict orders to get Annie out of here.” Ryan said as he and Johnny came running back to the car.
“Leave the car. Ryan’s car is out back. We’ll leave that way.” Johnny said. He opened Annie’s door.
“The sweater?” Annie asked.
“It’s in Ryan’s car. The apartment’s boobie trapped too. The building is being evacuated.” Johnny said. They followed Ryan to his car.
“Back to your apartment, Annie. As soon as I know what’s going on, I’ll be by to fill you in and get my car back. First, do you know who would want to kill you or Derrick?”
“No.”
“Annie, I don’t want to scare you, but we found a bomb under your car this morning.” Annie began to shake.
“Todd, let’s get out of here.” Johnny said.
“Straight home. Nowhere else. John’s extra gun is in the glove department.” Ryan said. Todd drove off.

 

“Something’s definitely wrong with this picture. Why such an intense watch over me and an intense investigation of Derrick? Bombs, booby traps...what’s going on?” Annie looked at Johnny. They had managed to avoid the press when they pulled up beside her apartment building and into her apartment.
“As soon as we know anything, we’ll let you know.” Todd said as he put the box that contained all of the stuff Derrick gave her on the coffee table. Annie went right to it and grabbed her favorite sweater of his and put it on.
“Annie...you hungry?” Johnny asked.
“No.” she replied. She went to the window seat and sat, looking out the window.
“You’ll eat anyway.” Todd said.
“Whatever.” she replied without looking at him or Johnny. She curled up and put her hands in the sweater so that the arms of the sweater were empty and stared out the window.
“John, do you mind throwing...”
“I’ve got it...” Sarah came bouncing out of her bedroom. “I made a casserole. It’s in the microwave. Anastasia Marshelle, what are you doing?” Sarah looked at her sister.
“She’s right...Looks like chilimac.” Johnny said as he opened up the microwave.
“Sarah...what are you doing home? Shouldn’t you be at work?” Annie said and looked at her sister.
“Well, I, uh, shit. Remember Brad Simms?”
“Vaguely. Isn’t he the law student you were dating? Why?”
“We eloped yesterday afternoon.”
“Figures.” Annie said as she threw up her arms and walked into the den, locking the door behind her.
“Leave her alone Sarah.” Todd said. Sarah had begun after her.
“Look, I managed to move most of her stuff into my room. I’ll call later.”
“No...don’t. Um, the PD found a bomb under Annie’s car this morning and they’re scoping Derrick’s now. Brad was suppose to get you some shadows.” Johnny said.
“Protection? Why?”
“We’re not sure if my cover’s been blown or what, if anything, kind of mess Derrick was involved in.” Todd replied.
“Shit.”
“Nice language.” Johnny replied.
“Now what?”
“Where’s Brad?”
“He went to the office. He said he had something to take care of and would meet me back here.” there was a knock on the door.
“Aw, the infamous newlywed?” Johnny teased and went to open the door. Todd was looking through the box of Derrick’s things.
“Sarah’s in the living room? The shadows?” Johnny asked as he pointed at two guys.
“Yeah. How’s Annie?”
“You heard that her car had a bomb? Any news on Derrick’s?”
“Not yet."
“Anne’s trying to cope the best way she can. Right now it’s ignoring us all and locking herself in the den.” Johnny explained. “Come on in. You see the shadows down the hall? They’re Annie’s.” Johnny pointed out.
“Sarah warned me about you.”
“Oh yeah, guess I’m going to have to talk to Steve about you.” Johnny teased.
“Like you’ll actually get anything out of him.” the men laughed.
“What’s all this laughter about?” Sarah asked.
“Just teasing your hubby. I must get back to the kitchen.” Johnny exclaimed and left them in the hall.

 In the den, Annie went on-line and checked her private e-mail. The recording artists and she communicated non-business through that one. Most of the mail was from them, sending their condolences about Derrick. The first one though, was from her favorite artist... Tammy P. Annie read it several times.

       

                Ann... Words cannot express the sadness that is in my heart right now. Whenever I was around you both, I could feel the love you two shared. Derrick was always loving and kind with all of your staff and the record artists. He never complained or said anything negative about the business and the time you spent on it. I know you said things were pretty strained because he never called when he was away, but I hope you know that he loved you very much and know that I know that you loved him just as much. Craigie and I want to be there for you. I’ve canceled my concerts for the next week and they are being rescheduled by Judy. Don’t be angry with me. You need me right now. You’ve always been there for me and now it’s my turn. I’ll call your celly when we get in. But, in the meantime, if you need me, call me at home. with love, always, T...

 

“Oh, Tamm...if you were only here right now.” Annie said. She didn’t reply to the note, instead she went to the Company website and noticed a separate page for condolence messages about Derrick. She gasped. Picked up her celly and dialed the office. “Kath...get me Tim Alston in Systems now.” Annie said as diplomatic as possible. She had to thank whoever added the page.
“Tim Alston...”
“Tim... it’s Ann. Who’s been working on the webpage?”
“Julie Miller and Dan Emery...why?”
“Tell them I said thank you. From the bottom of my heart.” Annie said, trying not to cry.
“I will. How are you?”
“I’ll be okay. How’s everything there?”
“Doug, Jenn, and Kathy are holding down the fort rather well. I’m sure Kathy could bring you up to speed.”
“I will. I have to go, Tim. Thanks.” Annie replied.
“Annie, open the door.” Sarah knocked on the door.
“Go away. I’m busy.” Annie declared as she opened up some more mail.
“Anastasia!” Sarah said loudly.
“Leave me alone.” Annie said and threw a paperweight at the door without batting an eyelash.
 “She’s not coming out, Sarah. Let’s leave her be.” Bradley tried to coax his wife away from the doorway to the den.
“I want to talk to her.”
“Brad’s right, Sarah. She’s had me and John hovering over her since John went to her work yesterday afternoon. She just needs time.” Todd said.
“Promise me if anything happens, you’ll call.” Sarah asked him.
“I will. Don’t take what she’s doing personally.”
“Todd, I’m not even going to go there with you. You’ve been gone 18 months. Annie isn’t the same as you remember. Just tell her to call me. Brad, let’s go.” Sarah said. What she really wanted to do was kick all three men out so that she could be alone with Annie and hopefully talk with her.
“Be careful, you two.” Todd said as he gave his sister a kiss on the forehead before letting them leave.
“Take care of her.” Sarah said in reply. 

Annie was going through her mail when she noticed an e-mail from Derrick’s brother, Chris. So she opened it.

Hi, Annie: Mom just told me about D...I’m so sorry. I’ll be home from school tomorrow afternoon. I’ll be leaving in about an hour. As soon as I get the car packed. I have something for you that I think he would want you to have. I’ll call you when I get into town. In the meantime, if you need anything, call Anthony or Dad. luv, Chris.

Chris was Derrick’s favorite brother. Even though they were seven years apart. Chris was a senior at Miami University in Florida, pursuing a double major in Business and Music. He had spent his summers as an intern at the record company. Whenever Chris was home, the three of them did most things together with Chris’s girlfriend, Amy. Chris had just started back to school when Derrick had left on his last trip to Tokyo. The phone rang and startled Annie. She picked it up.
“Annie? It’s G...girl...Doug just told me. I’m so sorry. What can I do to help?”
“Gary... hi... Thank you. What I want you to do is just continue on performing, okay? You’ve got several shows coming up that were sold out within hours of going on sale. Derrick would want you to do what you love. That’s what you can do to help me, okay?”
“You sure, Annie? I can come in for a few days.”
“Gary, what I really want is for all this crap not to be happening. I’ve got my brother here with me, and Chris Masters will be here tomorrow. Please tell me you will go ahead and perform.”
“You know I will and you know I would do anything for you.”
“I know. Just go out on that stage and do what you love to do. Okay?”
“Sure, Annie. But, I will fly in for Derrick’s funeral, alright. This you won’t talk me out of.”
“Okay Gary... I’ll make sure that Kathy calls you with the details. Thanks for calling.”
“Annie, let us help, okay. I know I can put on a gangsta kind of attitude, but you know me. If you need to lean on me, then don’t be afraid to do it.”
“I promise. Gar...I gotta go. I really should get something to eat.” Annie said.
“You better take care of yourself. I’ll see you in a few days.” Gary said and hung up the phone. Annie finally decided he was right and so she got off the computer and went out to join the real world.

“Did you bozos bother to save me any food?” Annie asked as she faked a smile. She wanted to run back into the den and hide.
“Chilimac... is that okay?” Todd asked. Johnny was watching something going on down on the street from the terrace.
“Yeah... I can get it. Chris Masters will be home tomorrow and Tammy is coming in tonight I think.” Annie said as she made her way to the kitchen.
“Wow...Tammy’s coming home...that’s great!” Todd replied. He followed his sister into the kitchen.
“Yes, it is. Look, I’m going back into the den. I have some phone calls and work to do. I also need to call Derrick’s mom. I would rather be left alone. Okay?” Annie asked.
“Alright.”
“And I’ve decided to make a statement to the press. Maybe then, they’ll stop calling the front desk. I’ll have Kathy make the calls. Where should I tell them to gather?” she asked.
“Let me have Johnny call the Cap and see what he says. Your safety comes first.” Todd said.
“Okay, whatever. The sooner the better though, okay?”
“You bet.”
“You know what? I’m really hungry for a salad. Fresh, green-leafed, chef salad. If I make alot, will you eat some of it?” Annie asked as she opened up the fridge and took out the ingredients for the salad.
“You know how I hate rabbit food.” He replied.
“Bull. I know for a fact you use to eat it all the time. It’s good for you and fills you up. Stay here with me and chat while I make this.” Annie said.
“What about your statement to the press?”
“That can wait. I need some nourishment. I don’t need to hear you and Johnny yelling at me anymore because I’m not eating.”
“Fine. How are you really doing?”
“I’m dying inside. I felt alone when I wouldn’t hear from him for weeks at a time, but now I really feel alone because I know he and I will never be together here on earth again. Never. I know your experience is different, but is this how you felt in any way?” Annie stopped cutting a tomato to look at her brother.
“Definitely, like my whole world ended. I wanted to die myself. But, you and Sarah and Johnny stood by me and sheltered me and gave me your love and support and Katie’s parents and family are still so supportive. Her mother even tried to set me up with a woman, but...I’m not ready. I’m not ready to let someone else into my heart.”
“Watching you go through that pain was really hard for all of us. I lost my best friend and my nephew and you were so distant.”
“Kinda like how you’ve been since I got here.”
“I just had some thinking to do. Alot of thinking. I’m not saying I’m done, but, just don’t give up on me.” She said.
“I understand. So, tell me about the company. I’ve been so outta touch with you that I’ve been neglecting my duties as a business partner.”
“Tammy’s latest record is about to sell 5 mil in the US alone and the tour is sold out. Everywhere. Gary and his band have just finished a new album and that should be ready for release by January. His tour is going better than I expected.”
“No lawsuits?”
“Not yet. Knock on wood.”
“Why do you keep Gary?”
“Because he’s raw talent that is going to be huge, like Tammy. And we just signed a new Country act. Kristi Monroe. She can wail! With some fine tuning, she’s going to be a long time favorite of the country fans.”
“Biz sounds good. I’m so proud of you. Dad and mom would be to, ya know.”
“I know and thank you for believing in my dream with me. I couldn’t have done it without yours and Katie’s help. Did you know that Tammy donates ten percent of her earnings to the Police Athletic League?”
“When did she do that?”
“Last year, in memory of Katie and Bryan. She wanted them to be remembered too She’s working on a song as well in tribute to them. Don’t tell her that you know though. She wanted it to be a surprise to you.”
“She’s amazing!”
“Don’t tell her that either. It will all go to her head. And that’s the last thing we need.” Annie told him.
“I think the press is finally giving up on having a lot of people cover you.” Johnny said as he came into the kitchen.
“That’s about to change. Annie wants to make a statement.” Todd said.
“Really? Are you coming out of your shell?”
“I don’t think Derrick would want me to waste away. He would want me to live. For both him and me. A part of me will always love him, but if I sit here and waste away, what kind of life would I have?”
“How did you become so smart?” Todd asked his sister.
“I had help from you and mom and dad.”
“Okay, stop before his head starts swelling.” Johnny teased.
“C’mon guys. That’s enough. Annie has some stuff she wants to do in the den. I’ve got to go see Cap. I’ll send one of the goons in here and take the other one with me.”
“What’s up?”
“Well, we don’t want to have the statement done here. Maybe at the courthouse or something. Any place but here or work.” Annie stated.
“Good idea. Know what you’re going to say yet?”
“Nope, I’m gonna wing it. I’ve made some chef salad, you want some?”
“Sure, I could eat.”
“Still packing away three times your weight daily, I see.”
“Okay, now who’s teasing who?” everyone laughed.
“Well, let me know what’s going on. Okay?” Annie said as she served herself some salad. She then poured a glass of ice tea and took it to the den with her. She left the guys to talk with each other.

“Alright, I won’t be gone too long. If you need anything, call the celly, I’ll leave it on.” Todd said. He looked at her plate. “Boy, you ate more than I thought you would.” he commented.
“Okay. I’m almost done with work related stuff. Let me know what you find out. I’ve got alot of mail to go through from the bands. I’m so grateful that they would write. There’s even a condolence page for Derrick that two of my employees set up. That’s huge!”
“Wow! Renews your faith in human beings again.”
“Yeah.”
“Promise me you’ll take a nap.”
“I promise.”
“I mean it.”
“I know. And I will. I know I need it. Especially if I’m suppose to see Derrick’s parents tonight.”
“Good. Johnny will be around if you need anything.” Todd kissed her sister on the forehead.
“Thanks Todd. See you later.” Annie said as he left. She went back to reading her e-mail.
Johnny came into the den a little while later.
“Aren’t you suppose to be napping?”
“I’m reading my e-mail.” she replied.
“You should be resting. You’ve barely slept.”
“Have you talked with Torres?” she closed her e-mail and turned off her computer.
“They disarmed the bomb and are working on the boobie traps now.” Johnny walked over to where she was sitting.
“Why would someone want to kill him? Why?” she asked, trying not to tear up.
“We’ll find the answers, Annie. I know we will.” he said. Annie walked over toward the window.
“The paparazzi are back. Look at them. You’d think that they would learn to back off after what happened a few years ago.”
“People like them never learn. That’s the problem. C’mon, nap time. Sarah’s moved all your stuff into her room. Go take a nap.” Johnny told her. Annie turned to look at him.
“I don’t want to be alone. Come sit with me? Just til I fall asleep?” she asked. Johnny couldn’t refuse.
“Let me just go check with the goon and then I’ll be back there.” Johnny said. He opened the door for her.  As soon as Annie got back to Sarah’s room, she heard gunshots. She ran to her room for her gun and hid in the panel in the closet of her old bedroom waiting for something...anything to happen next. 

“Where’s the girl!” a thug asked Johnny. The goon had been shot dead and Johnny was wounded.
“She left about a half hour ago.”
“Search the apartment.” the thug ordered several men.
“What are you looking for?” Johnny asked as he took his belt off and secured it around his thigh. He prayed that Annie had managed to get out of there.
“A disk. The girl might know where it is.”
“So you kill a police officer and push your way in here and wound me. That’s not the way to ask for things.”
“Who said I was asking.”
“Place is clean, boss.” one thug said.
“Here’s some disks I found in the den.” another said.
“Let’s go. You know, Johnny, such a shame a good cop has to go to waste.” the thug said and shot Johnny at close range. The thug didn’t realize that Johnny had his bulletproof vest on. “Let’s get out of here.” the pack of men left the apartment after dragging the goon into it.

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