Die Before Nightfall Page 14

  She set the pen down and gazed out the kitchen window, her mind rushing from question to question, searching for answers but finding none. All she knew for sure was that something was going on—something dangerous. Maybe even deadly.

  Chapter Fourteen

  Raven spent the next few days driving to antiques dealers and pawnshops, searching for her locket. Though she knew the search was futile, she couldn’t bring herself to give up. By Sunday she was antsy and irritable, ready for a distraction from her troubles. She rose early, well before dawn painted the sky with gold, and stepped out onto the front porch. Predawn quiet wove a spell across the countryside and Raven breathed in the cool, spring air.

  She wanted to enjoy the beauty of her new home, wanted to let the silence fill her with a sense of peace and rightness. Instead she felt broken, empty, and in desperate need of something she couldn’t define. She knew the reason. Despite what she’d said to Shane, she hadn’t moved on with her life. She couldn’t forgive or forget the mistakes she’d made. Mistakes God had allowed.

  There was bitterness in the thought and an anger that Raven refused to acknowledge. Though she prayed about it often, the prayers fell flat, the words nothing more than lip service to something she wasn’t sure she believed. If God had a better plan, if He was somehow making beauty out of the wreckage of her life, Raven couldn’t see it.

  But maybe that was the point. Maybe that was faith—believing even when there was nothing left to hope for.

  She sighed. Too many restless nights were making her tired and melancholy. It would be good to go to work, good to focus on someone aside from herself. Tomorrow she’d be with Abby and would have little time to think about the emptiness of her life. For now she’d make do with a hot shower and a cup of mint tea.

  By the time she arrived at church she felt marginally better, and smiled at a few familiar faces as she stepped into the sanctuary. She settled in a back pew, her gaze wandering along the rows of people in front of her as she waited for the service to begin. Though she told herself she wasn’t looking for anyone in particular, she knew the truth. She was looking for Shane.

  He wasn’t there and, though Raven caught sight of Mark and Laura Montgomery, there was no sign of Abby, either. Perhaps one of them was ill. She hoped not. Abby’s condition was fragile enough without added complications.

  “Now, here’s a sight for sore eyes. Mind if I join you?” Sam Riley slipped into the pew beside Raven, a smile lighting his dark eyes.

  “How are you, Sam?”

  “I’m fine. Heard you had some more trouble, though.”

  “I’m afraid so.”

  “Sorry to hear it. There isn’t much crime in Lakeview. Seems odd that you’ve been the target of so much of it.” His gaze was shrewd, his expression both curious and intense.

  “I was thinking the same thing.”

  “Doesn’t seem likely it’s a coincidence, does it?”

  “Not likely, but there’s no proof it isn’t. It’s possible I’ve just had a round of bad luck.”

  “I’m not much for believing in luck, good or bad. You be careful. We don’t want another Lakeview lady disappearing.”

  A shiver went up Raven’s spine at his words. “What do you mean?”

  “Just what I said. Be careful. Lakeview may be a quiet, country town, but bad things happen here, just like anywhere else. It’s best to keep that in mind.”

  The choir began the opening hymn, interrupting the conversation before Raven could ask the questions that clamored in her mind. Sam’s words had echoed Jake’s, the warning to be careful chafing her already raw nerves. Did he think the things that were happening to Raven were somehow connected to the missing woman? Or were his words nothing more than a friendly reminder to be careful?

  Whatever the case, the warning stayed with Raven as the service continued, and despite her best efforts to concentrate, her thoughts wandered again and again. When the sermon ended, she stood, relieved rather than renewed as she stepped out of the church with Sam.

  “Deacon Parsley did a fair job preaching this week, but you’ll be pleased when your brother returns. He’s a man with a true calling to the pulpit.”

  “I’m looking forward to hearing him.”

  “Guess you were disappointed that he left so soon after your arrival.”

  “Not really—it’s good that I had a chance to settle in and form my own impressions of Lakeview.”

  “What do you think of our town?”

  “Lakeview is beautiful.”

  “You planning on staying a while?”

  “How long I’ll be here depends on how my job works out.” And how her relationship with Ben progressed, but she wasn’t going to share that with Sam.

  “Makes sense. People often leave here to find work that pays more. Lots of them end up coming back.”

  “Like Thea?”

  “Thea didn’t leave to find work. She left because she hated this town and the people in it, and because she couldn’t bear to see Daniel married to someone else. If it hadn’t been for her mother’s illness I don’t think she would have set foot in Lakeview again.”

  Raven stopped walking and turned to face Sam. “She hated it that much? Why?”

  “She didn’t have an easy life here. Her mother never married, never told who Thea’s father was. ’Course it was obvious from the looks of Thea that the man was white. That made things uncomfortable. Kind of blurred the line between one race and another. People didn’t like it, and Thea got the brunt of their unhappiness.”

  “But she had some friends. You and Abby and Abby’s brother.”

  “Now, that’s true. Came from livin’ on the same road, a bit away from town. We grew up together. Never saw Thea as any different than us. My parents and Abby’s mother were open-minded for the times. They never tried to put a stop to the friendship, so it blossomed and thrived.”

  “But Abby’s father felt different.”

  “Nathaniel Meade was a hard man. Set in his ways and not willing to bend. Too bad—things might have been different if he had. Daniel might still be around, married to Thea with a bunch of grandchildren to brag on and love.”

  “I’m sorry.” Raven put a hand on his arm. “I shouldn’t have brought it up.”

  “Can’t blame you for being curious. Now, I’ve got to get home. Tori’s babysitting a sick calf and I’m gonna lend a hand.”

  “Goodbye, Sam.”

  “Bye.”

  The story Sam had told was a sad one. Perhaps that was why Thea and Daniel lingered in Abby’s mind even as everything else faded away. They lingered in Raven’s mind, as well, as she drove home and as she busied herself mowing the lawn and trimming back an overgrown rosebush.

  She was sure she’d dream about them and was prepared for another restless night. Instead she fell into bed, her body tired from a busy day, and slid into a deep, dreamless sleep.

  The phone rang hours later, the sound shattering Raven’s slumber. She sat up, her heart racing, her gaze flying to the glowing numbers on the alarm clock. Two in the morning.

  Her first thought was Ben. Had he been hurt? Injured in some camping accident? He’d been fine when she spoke to him earlier in the day, but things could change so quickly. Joy could so easily be turned to anguish.

  “Hello?”

  “Raven? It’s Shane. I’m sorry to wake you, but we’ve got a problem over here.”

  “Is Abby missing?”

  “Sick. The doctor’s here, trying to figure out what’s wrong, but she’s refusing to speak to him.”

  “Do you want me to come over?”

  “I know it’s a lot to ask, but you have a rapport with her….”

  “I’ll be there in a few minutes.”

  “I’ll come pick you up.”

  “That would be a waste of time.”

  “It would also be the safe thing to do. Sit tight. I’ll be there in five minutes.” He hung up before she could argue.

  Raven rushed to pull on jeans a
nd a T-shirt, put on clogs, and was ready when Shane drove up. She stepped out onto the porch, snagged Merry’s collar and was tugging her back toward the door when Shane walked up the steps.

  “One minute. I just need to put Merry back inside.”

  “She can come. Abby would probably like to see her.”

  “You sure?”

  “Yeah. Here, I’ll get her.” He reached down and scooped the puppy up, his arm brushing against Raven’s.

  The contact was brief and too welcome for her peace of mind. She hurried down the porch steps, away from Shane and all the things she longed for but knew she’d never have.

  They rode to the house in silence, the absence of Shane’s usual cheerful banter worrisome.

  “Is Abby doing really poorly?” she finally asked.

  “I’m not sure. Like I said, she’s not talking,” Shane said as he parked the car and pushed open the door.

  Raven opened her own door and slid out. “What’s the doctor saying?

  “About as much as Abby. They’re at a standoff.” He lifted Merry from her arms and led the way into the house. “They’re upstairs. In Abby’s room.”

  Raven walked in the room behind Shane and was struck by the tension in the air. A blond man leaned against the wall, a stethoscope around his neck and a scowl on his face. Abby was in a chair, face pale, mouth set in a mutinous line. Beside her stood a short, big-boned woman who hurried forward as Shane entered the room.

  “Mr. Montgomery, I’m glad you’re back. I thought I’d make some tea. That might help Abby’s stomach.”

  “Good idea, Renee, thanks.”

  Raven moved forward as the caregiver left. “I hear you’re not feeling well, Abby. Is there anything I can do to help?”

  “Thea? Is that you?”

  “No. I’m Raven. We met a few days ago.”

  “I’m afraid I don’t remember.”

  “That’s okay. Want to tell me what’s bothering you?”

  Abby’s dark gaze darted from Raven to the man standing against the wall. “Dr. Killjoy. He’s trying to murder me.”

  “No, Abby, you know that isn’t true. I’m your doctor. I’m here to help. Be a good girl and open your mouth so I can do the culture.”

  Good girl? No wonder Abby was keeping her mouth shut. Raven straightened and faced the doctor. “Why don’t I do the culture? I’m sure Abby wouldn’t mind.”

  “You’re a nurse?”

  “Yes. Raven Stevenson.”

  “Brian McMath. I’d heard Ben’s sister was in town. It’s nice to finally meet you.”

  “Thanks. You’re culturing for strep?”

  McMath nodded. “It’s going around. She’s got fever, abdominal pain, headache. And one of her caregivers had strep.”

  Raven remembered the feverish young woman. “I’ll be happy to take care of it, Doctor.”

  “I doubt you’ll get her to cooperate. She’s being very naughty today.”

  “I find that patients are more willing to cooperate when they’re treated with the respect and honor their age and experience deserves.”

  The doctor stiffened and Shane coughed. Raven glanced in his direction, saw the gleam in his eyes and the curve of his lips, and couldn’t contain her own smile.

  He winked, stepped forward. “Why don’t you let her give it a try, Dr. McMath?”

  “I doubt Abby will cooperate.” He thrust out the swab, annoyance evident in the tightness of his mouth and the harsh lines of his face.

  “Abby, we need to get a throat culture to check for strep. Do you mind if I do it now?”

  Abby blinked but didn’t respond.

  “This’ll only take a second. Then we’ll have some tea.”

  She opened her mouth, let Raven swab her throat.

  “Thank you.” Raven smiled and handed the swab to the doctor, who nodded stiffly and left the room with Shane.

  “I don’t like that man.” Abby sounded weak, her parchment skin bleached of color.

  Raven placed a hand against her brow, checking for fever as she spoke. “He is a little condescending.”

  “Who is he?”

  “Dr. McMath.”

  “I prefer Dr. Raymond.”

  “I’m sorry he couldn’t be here tonight.”

  “I haven’t seen him in ages. Maybe he’s gone. Maybe he’s dead. So many people are. I’m the only one left.” Tears streamed down her face, and Raven reached for a tissue and handed it to her.

  Abby didn’t use it—just sat silently, while Raven grabbed another tissue and blotted moisture from her cheeks.

  “Sam’s still here,” said Raven. “Maybe we could invite him over for a visit one day.” She hoped to draw Abby away from the past and its sorrow, but Abby was lost in her own thoughts, and seemed to hear nothing but the memories that lived in her mind. “Come on, Abby. Let’s get you back in bed.”

  Renee appeared, a tray balanced in her hands. “How’s Ms. Montgomery doing? Is she up to some tea?”

  “I’m just helping her back into bed.” Raven urged Abby up and over to the bed. “Would you like some tea?”

  Abby turned on her side and closed her eyes.

  “Has she eaten this evening?” Raven asked.

  “Not that I’ve seen. Maybe a nibble of the chocolates her nephew brought.”

  “I doubt she’ll touch the tea, either. I think she’s sleeping.” Raven pulled the comforter over Abby’s thin frame.

  “Don’t go, Thea. It’s been so long since I’ve seen you.” Abby’s eyes were open again, her voice trembling. “Daniel killed himself, you know. He was so sorry.”

  “I’ll stay for a while.” Raven pulled a chair over and held Abby’s frail hand, wondering how long it would be before Abby no longer remembered her brother.

  Shane rubbed his hand across his eyes as he walked up the stairs. He’d been awake since before dawn the previous day, Abby’s cantankerous attitude toward her caregivers making it impossible for anyone but him to care for her properly. She’d be appalled if she realized how she was acting. He could only hope she didn’t.

  He passed Renee as he moved into the room and she nodded to him as she carried the tea tray out the door. Obviously Abby hadn’t had any of it. Yet another worry. Still he tried to smile as he walked into the room, then he caught sight of Abby.

  She’d faded even more in the past few weeks, her beautiful hair dulling, her skin drawing tight against her cheekbones. The strength that had always made her seem larger than life was gone, and only a shell of the woman remained. It hurt to see, hurt to know things would only get worse.

  “Are you all right?” Raven stood, bridging the space between them and placing a hand on Shane’s brow. “You feel a little warm.”

  “I’m fine. Just tired. It’s been a long day.”

  “I can see that. Come and sit down.” She tugged him toward the chair, waited for him to sit and then leaned forward to press her cheek against his forehead. “Definitely warm.”

  She smelled like flowers and spring, her skin cool and dry against his temple. What would it be like to kiss her again? This time to taste the sweetness of her lips? Shane grimaced and reined in his errant thoughts.

  “Let me go get you some aspirin. Do you have a thermometer?” She seemed oblivious to his wayward thoughts.

  “In the medicine cabinet in the bathroom—but like I said, I’m fine.”

  Raven ignored him and hurried into the adjoining bathroom, returning moments later with a bottle of apirin and a thermometer. “Open up.”

  When Shane opened his mouth to protest, she thrust the thermometer under his tongue. “I—”

  “No talking. Do you have a sore throat? Just nod or shake your head.”

  He shook his head, both amused and impressed by Raven’s ability to get her patients to cooperate.

  She stared at him with an I-don’t-believe-you expression, and Shane could feel his throat start to ache in response.

  “All right. That should be good. Let’s take a look.” S
he read the thermometer, one dark brow rising in reaction to what she saw.

  “That bad, huh?”

  “One hundred and two. Time for you to get in bed.”

  “Not possible. I’ve got to take care of Abby.”

  “Abby’s asleep.” She reached for his hand and tried to tug him to his feet. She was as effective as an ant trying to move an elephant.

  “She won’t be for long and she’s not fond of poor Renee. She thinks she’s in league with the doctor.”

  “Then I don’t blame her for not liking the woman. Though I’m sure Renee is very sweet.” Raven pulled harder. “You’re making this more difficult than it needs to be. I’m here. I’ll watch Abby while you rest.”

  “I can’t ask you to do that.”

  “Why not?”

  “Because you’re tired and still recuperating. Because I have already asked enough of you by dragging you here to help get the throat swab done.”

  “I owe you, remember? I cried all over your shirt a few days ago. It’s this, or I’ll have to wash the shirt for you, and you know I don’t have a clothes dryer.”

  “No. Just give me a couple of minutes and I’ll drive you home.”

  “Don’t you remember what you said to me the other day? About not being able to care for Abby if I didn’t take care of myself? Isn’t the same true of you? You’re burning the candle at both ends. Eventually you’ll run out of fuel. And then what will happen to your aunt?”

  She was right. Shane knew it, but it wasn’t her words that finally got him moving. It was her dark hair, lying in soft ringlets against her shoulders. Her blue eyes, so striking in her pale face. The scent of flowers that hung in the air around her. Her strength. Her determination. And the longer he stayed near her, the more tempted he was to kiss her.

  He stood abruptly. “And what about you, Raven? When will you rest?”

  “When you feel better. I’m used to this. Remember? Besides, Abby asked me to stay. She’s thinking about the past, and I think having me here is a comfort.”

  “Because you remind her of Thea?”