Fic: Unforgettable 3/4
Title: Unforgettable
Author: Demeter
Fandom: Women's Murder Club
Pairing: Lindsay/Cindy
Summary: When a client and employee of an escort service get murdered, the club's investigations lead to unexpected revelations.
A/N: Thanks to everyone reading and commenting along!
Part 1
Part 2
Lindsay couldn't believe her eyes when Cindy opened the door to her in a red mini dress, slightly faded make-up, her hair falling onto her shoulders in soft, deliberately styled waves. Which could only mean one thing that left her battling with worry and irritation alike. The latter won.
"Damn it, Cindy!"
"I know! I'm sorry."
She really looked the part, Lindsay realized, but it wasn't enough for now. "Are you hurt? Tell me the truth."
"I am not. Lucinda called me and asked for one more date - I thought I could come up with something that could be of use to both of us." Cindy sighed. "I guess I did."
"We found Elizabeth Brennan today. She's not talking... severely traumatized."
"That's horrible," Cindy said softly, and for some reason she didn't want to think about, it made Lindsay want to shake her. Obviously sensing her stormy mood, Cindy added, "Try not to hate me?"
Of course, she could never hate her, quite the opposite, in fact, but Lindsay thought for going back to Unforgettable, she deserved to sweat a little. "What else do I have to give you to make you stop doing foolish and dangerous things?"
"I guess I have to give something to you this time." Cindy turned her laptop for Lindsay to see the screen, and clicked onto a folder labeled 'Sp.'
A list of files came up. Names. Lucinda Bradshaw had lied to Jacobi, after all, because these were names of the women working for her, and their 'specialties', together with names of their clients, and their preferences. Elaborated fantasies, matching clients with companions who'd make them come true.
Sybil Kramer had been among the women who offered more than just company for dinner or going to the theater, at least until she and Magdalene Sandoval became an item.
Lindsay was aware of Cindy watching her anxiously. "Okay, spill it. What could possibly be worse than you going back to that place when I practically begged you to stay away?"
"Try Katheryn Myers," Cindy mumbled, unable to meet her eyes.
Lindsay gave her another suspicious glance, then turned back to the screen and clicked on Myers' name, scanning the client list quickly. She stared at the words, speechless.
Jill Bernhardt: bi, likes to be in control, likes sex partner to be tied up, toys optional
Her face flushed as she tried to suppress the images that came with them. The anger rising within was more than sufficient for a distraction for any possibly inappropriate reaction, though. "Damn it, Jill," she said aloud. "Why the hell didn't she tell me?"
Cindy didn't say anything.
"What?"
"I suppose it's something you hardly share with anyone - even friends. Maybe, especially friends, when you're afraid they could be looking at you differently."
"That's stupid!"
Cindy flinched a little which made Lindsay feel guilty and curious in equal parts. "I would never... You're not saying--"
"I'm not saying anything. Except we need to talk to Jill about this. It could mean..."
"It could mean she's already on the guy's radar," Lindsay concluded grimly.
***
Claire was beginning to think she'd been left out of the loop regarding quite a few things. Her suspicion deepened when Jill sat across from her, telling her that Lindsay had called her to meet at Papa Joe's.
"That's strange. She was at her desk all morning, why didn't she just come over?"
Jill looked decidedly unhappy, but she didn't offer up any information.
"So what did you do, ask Cindy out?"
"No!" Jill protested indignantly. She sighed, starting to take the layers of her napkin apart and tear them into neat squares. "Of course not. Who would want to get in the way of true and undying love."
"What's that sentiment I detect there between the lines?"
"Nothing." Despite herself, Jill offered a smile, but it was shaded by worry. "I kept something from Lindsay," she confessed finally.
"I'm sure it can't be bad enough to--"
"Worse."
***
Jill could tell from the look on Lindsay's face that she knew, and the disappointment she was sensing made her feel defensive. Lindsay couldn't have expected her to come forward unless she really had no choice but to do so. It seemed like the moment had come earlier than Jill had hoped.
Cindy gave her an encouraging smile, but she seemed tense, too.
Predictably, Lindsay began, "Elizabeth Brennan is still not talking, but there are other news. Seems like Bradshaw has a side business she didn't tell Jacobi and Fong about, but it should be a lot more interesting for our killer than the escort service."
All of a sudden, there was a loaded silence at the table.
Claire was the one who broke it. "I know that it's an important fact for the case, but now we need to make sure there's no damage for... either of us."
At those words, Lindsay's eyes went wide. "You knew?" She hadn't once looked at Jill though.
"I told her ten minutes ago."
Lindsay was shaking her head in disblief. "Just great. So when were you planning for me to find out," she finally addressed Jill. "In court?"
"It's not something I wanted any of you to know," Jill said tersely.
"Oh, really? I can't remember you ever having been shy about details. Or wait, is it that this time, it's actually illegal?"
"Lindsay," Claire said warningly, but to no avail.
"I wonder how come you have developed this suicidal streak lately. Lois Lane here goes back for just one more date, that's after we've got the third body in this case. And you, Jill? Is what they offer really worth risking everything you've worked for? Hell, what we have worked for. It's not not like this doesn't concern each of us."
Lindsay clearly believed what she said, unaware of the lines she was crossing easily, but Jill who had been feeling anxious and scared ever since the first murder, decided she wouldn't have it. Having to hide was bad enough, but they were supposed to be her friends. Well, Claire at least had acted like one. Cindy might sympathize, but she had her own issues, being head over heels for Lindsay, another aspect the inspector seemed oblivious to.
"It does concern me," Jill said icily. "It's none of your business."
"It is now."
"So what irks you more about it, the fact that it was a woman, or that I paid for it?"
"I am not going to have this conversation with you here."
"Fine," Jill said and got up to walk to the door that lead out into the back, not turning to look if Lindsay was following her, knowing that she would.
***
"I feel bad for bringing it up," Cindy said wistfully.
"You had to," Claire reminded her. "Besides, if you had held that back, it would be you now Lindsay would be mad at. I guess you've had that already."
"Yeah." Cindy sighed. "I know this case is especially bad, but she sure is wound tight."
"She worries, because she cares. About Jill... and you." Especially you, she added silently.
Cindy took a hasty sip of her drink and promptly started coughing. "I hope this will be over soon," she said when the fit was over.
"Me too," Claire agreed, meaning more than the case.
***
"You're such a hypocrite!" Jill couldn't hold back the words any longer, and she didn' want to make the effort. Yes, she had been careless, and she was worried about what this list could mean for her career. That didn't mean she was okay with Lindsay giving her the cold sholder now. Especially when Jill was sure to know the reason for her friend's behavior.
"I'm not the one jeopardizing my career over my sex life."
"Right. You'd have to have one to do that!"
Lindsay stiffened, but she didn't comment. "I think this conversation is over."
"You're going to lose her."
"What?" Lindsay was still not in the mood for right, reason and logic, but Jill figured she had earned the right to tell her.
"She's going to find another woman who's just as gorgeous, passionate, and, less of a coward than you."
"Would you mind not calling me names?"
"You are all these things. Does it make you uncomfortable to hear them from a woman?" It was very clear that they wasn't talking about the coward accusation any longer. "Don't you worry, Linds. I don't think you'd be going along with my preferences either, considering that you're usually the one to slap the cuffs on others."
She could tell that Lindsay had a hard time not to smile which had nothing to do with the current situation, and everything with a memory that obviously came to mind. She returned to the matter at hand quickly, though.
"It wasn't just once, right? They wouldn't have kept a file on you otherwise."
"Correct." Jill didn't see any point in hiding the fact.
Lindsay nodded. "I'm trying to keep your name out of this."
"And I appreciate that. Just... talk to Cindy. She deserves that much. So do you, really."
"That's nice, but... let's see what we can about your situation here first."
Jill was relieved and annoyed in equal parts, but she figured the fact that Lindsay hadn't even tried to deny she really wanted to be with Cindy was a sliver of a beginning.
***
There were all kinds of conversations in her future that Lindsay dreaded. She'd try as promised to make sure Jill's name wouldn't appear in relation to Unforgettable's special business, but she couldn't do it on her own, so she probably wouldn't get around telling Tom.
About that other conversation... okay, Jill hadn't said she had to do it right away, but she had drawn out the future for Lindsay quite clearly. Cindy, beautiful and smart, would have no trouble finding someone. And it was true, while she had dragged her feet coming to the likely conclusion, Lindsay had enjoyed and relied on the younger woman's affection. Needed it, in fact. She just wasn't sure where to go from there. She hadn't even treated her very kind in the recent past, so Lindsay guessed she shouldn't have been surprised when Cindy looked very worried opening the door to her the next evening.
"I didn't do anything," she said by way of greeting.
"I know. It's just that--" The urge to turn and run was growing stronger by the minute. "I've been thinking about some things."
Cindy frowned a little at that, and Lindsay realized that her words had sounded quite cryptic.
"I'm sorry. I mean... I thought you might like to share this." She held up the bottle of wine she'd brought. "Since we still wait on the information about Peters' husband, and I won't have any date until the day after tomorrow--" Heavens, that sounded bad. Cindy now looked a little less worried, more amused.
"You're not asking me out, right?"
"In your dreams."
"Right."
Just like always, from the first time they'd met, during conversations about how great Pete was, to the present moment, there was something entirely different between the lines. It gave Lindsay hope. What had Jill said? Gorgeous. And a coward.
"It doesn't mean I'm okay with the risks you--"
"I know," Cindy said quietly. "I worry about you, too. Are you going to come in now, or are we continuing this conversation in the doorway?"
The conversation was being continued on Cindy's couch, still a little stiff and awkward, because Lindsay feared her intention was too obvious, while at the same time, she had no idea how to approach the subject. So she talked about Pete and how convenient he'd been until they came to the sensible conclusion to end a relationship that couldn't go anywhere. He'd been a friendly phantom living on the other side of the world, but making everyone back off regarding her dating life.
Well not everyone, Jill, with a load of problems on her own now, hadn't backed off. That was because she knew Lindsay better than most people.
"I'm so tired of this game, of always having to explain myself. That I need my space, that I take my job seriously."
"I understand that." With Cindy, she knew those weren't just empty words. "But don't you want to be with someone eventually?"
If I do, it has to be something meaningful. Something that lasts. Lindsay wondered if she'd scared Cindy away, had she spoken these words out loud. She turned to look into Cindy's eyes, intent on her, wide and hopeful.
Couldn't Jill have said anything sooner? Or maybe she was just as delusional as Lindsay was, because... this.. would be too good to be true. At least she could blame it on her friend then. "Jill read me the riot act," she confessed. "And I guess... she was somewhat right about it." She laughed self-consciously. "You know I'm not good at this under the best of circumstances, and, well the circumstances are less than perfect at the moment. So... it's true, I've been having... feelings for you, even before Pete."
"You have?"
Her face felt uncomfortably hot, but Cindy put her out of her misery quickly, leaning in to press her lips against Lindsay's softly. Once given permission, she couldn't turn back, the light touch turning to something as deep and intense as her hopes had been to this moment. Not a fantasy any longer.
"Thank you for saying it," Cindy whispered, and just for that, Lindsay had to kiss her again.
***
They spent some time regrouping over lunch break. While Jill was still worried sick about the consequences that might await her, she couldn't help but smile when she saw Lindsay and Cindy in the booth together, holding hands. That was fast. She'd always known that all they needed was a gently friend-ly push.
"Hey." She leaned in to kiss Lindsay on the cheek for greeting. At her puzzled look, she said cheerily, "We'll scratch 'coward' off the list. Congratulations, girls."
"Well thanks. I'm relieved," Lindsay drawled, and Jill breathed a sigh of relief. It was good to know that she wasn't blazing mad at her any more. Seemed like Lindsay had had the opportunity for some unwinding after all. Cindy simply looked very happy. That must have been some mutual confession.
Jill thought ruefully that she couldn't wait for this damn case to be over so things could go back to relatively normal for all of them. "Other than that," she continued, "Maria Peters' husband has some interesting history. Assault, breaking and entering, convicted every time."
"That's what has me a little worried," Lindsay said just as Claire arrived. "Is he clever enough to pull off a scene like this? He seems choleric, not a planner."
"So Maria told me when we went out," Cindy chimed in.
If the situation hadn't been as serious as it was, Jill might have been amused at the quick, not-so-amused sideways look Lindsay gave her at that. Cindy cast her an apologetic glance in return and said, "I might be able to get more. Lucinda texted me that Maria would like to meet me again, and she also wanted to talk to me about something..."
"You forgot to mention that last night," Lindsay said suspiciously, completely unaware of the revelation she'd just made.
"Yes, I forgot," Cindy returned with a hint of defensiveness. "I was distracted."
"You shouldn't be anywhere near Peters at the moment." In this, Jill could easily take Lindsay's side. The client's jealous ex-husband didn't seem like a very aimiable person, judging from his file. Claire nodded.
"However, maybe you could call Lucinda and see what she has for you. You could say you read about Peters and are a bit worried, too."
"Sounds reasonable." Even Lindsay had to admit it. She took a look at her watch and sighed. "I've got to head back. Appointment with Tom in fifteen minutes."
Jill didn't need further information. She knew that her name was going to come up in that meeting.
"I've got to go too," Cindy said, getting up quickly. Jill smiled a little at the sight of her hurrying to keep up with Lindsay. She started when Claire touched her arm.
"It's going to be alright. Lindsay is adjusting well as ou can see, and Tom will want to keep this under tabs too," she said, reading Jill's worries exactly.
"I hope so." With a heavy sigh, she leaned forward as Claire placed a comforting hand on the small of her back.
***
"You knew that a Deputy District Attorney was involved in this and you didn't tell me?"
Lindsay winced a bit at Tom's sudden raise of his voice. "It's true, but--"
"But?" he cut her off. "Linz, you have no idea what's going to happen if we don't close this case, and soon. I've looked the other way before, because you usually come up with good results, but this time, I can't. Jill has to be off the case. I won't even start about Ms. Thomas."
You better not. Lindsay barely held back the words. "Tom, I need your help here. We need to keep Jill's name out of this mess."
"I hate to say it but she should have thought of the consequences in the first place."
"I wasn't going to discuss the moral aspect with you," she said sharply.
"I wasn't going to." The implied reprimand hadn't gone unnoticed by him. "I'll try. I can't promise you anything."
"Fair enough. Thanks, Tom."
He gave her a long thoughtful look that made her slightly uncomfortable. "What?"
"Nothing. I'll see what I can do. I'd hate for the DA's office to lose her over this."
"Yeah, me too." Lindsay knew he was genuine about this, so she left his office a little more hopeful than she'd been before, wondering what it was that Lucinda Bradshaw had to offer to Cindy.
***
Cindy had voiced her concern about going out with Maria once more to a surprisingly understanding Lucinda. "That's okay, dear," she said. "About the other thing though, I'd like to see you. How does a late lunch sound? I'll pay."
Meeting her in a public place couldn't be all that dangerous, Cindy decided and agreed. "I might not be hungry, but I'm curious about what you have to tell me."
Lucinda laughed. "I hope. I'll see you in ten minutes, Cindy."
By the time Cindy arrived at the restaurant, Lucinda had already ordered two glasses of champagne. "Have a seat," she said, smilling pleasantly.
"What's the occasion?" It was remarkable how well this woman could compartmentalize.
"You haven't been with us for long, Cindy, but I've got to tell you, you're pretty popular. Remember Linda? She apologized and asked especially for you the next time."
"I bet she did," Cindy muttered, but she couldn't stop the smile spread across her face. "Thanks," she added, refering to Lucinda's earlier statement.
"You're welcome. And I trust you. That's why I wanted to talk to you. I've got an offer for you."
"I'm not sure I can do this much longer," Cindy said honestly.
"Look, it might happen that you find yourself attracted to a client. The attraction might be mutual."
"Um, okay, I know. I can't be their escort then. But that wasn't the reason with Maria. She's nice and all, but I'm a little scared of her ex. He vandalized her store."
Lucinda nodded somberly. "I know, but I wasn't talking about Maria. Just in case this scenario should happen, there's a possiblitiy that you can be something more to them. You're funny and smart. You're special, Cindy."
Cindy felt her face heat with the blunt praise.
"We make special offers at Unforgettable. You choose what, and who you are comfortable with, and fulfill a fantasy for both of you."
"I'd do Arabian Nights." Cindy laughed nervously. "I've been told I talk too much."
Lucinda smiled affectionately. "Just think about it. Like I said, you're popular. You think about it and then give me a list of things you might need. I'll get you everything."
And I bet you'll create a special folder for me."Thank you," Cindy smiled, thinking that there was only one person she'd wanted to fulfill any fantasies with. Maybe, starting tonight.
"This sounds very interesting."
***
This time, it was Cindy showing up on her doorstep, and it was pretty clear that both of them still had some adjusting to do as to the new situation. After a moment of hesitating about what would be the right way of greeting while having some very specific ideas on her mind, Lindsay just pulled her inside and kissed her softly. Specific ideas could wait for later, she reasoned.
"So you missed me?" Cindy asked hopefully.
"Very much," Lindsay confessed even though they'd seen each other at lunchtime. "I hope you haven't eaten yet."
"Did you order in?"
"Actually, I cooked," she said, feeling somewhat offended that Cindy obviously had a hard time imagining it. "I do, every now and then, so you don't have to look so worried."
"I'm not." Cindy smiled, and Lindsay thought resignedly that she was clearly unable to be mad with her for any length of time. "Actually, I'm starving. How about we eat first and then I'll tell you all about Lucinda's plans for me?"
How about after that, we'll move on to all those plans I have for you? "Good." Lindsay turned rather apruptly to hide the blush creeping up her face rapidly.
***
After dinner, they sat together on the couch once again, talking through the specifics of what would and what wouldn't go into Cindy's story. Something had righted itself, Lindsay thought, some of the tension gone now that the cards were on the table and they could actually talk about work again.
Another kind of tension - just growing. But there was no way of indulging it now, and truth be told Lindsay was just a bit relieved about it.
For the moment, she was pretty happy with the way things were, Cindy close beside her. The possibilities... endless. At least after this case was closed.
"So what was it Lucinda had to tell you?"
Cindy started a bit at that; she'd been leaning closer continually and had obviously been just about to go to sleep. Lindsay found it extremely endearing. "Long night yesterday?" she asked teasingly.
Smiling up at her, Cindy answered, "Kind of. I've had a lot on my mind... anyway. Lucinda offered me a spot on the specialty list."
"What?" Lindsay sat up straight. "Has she lost her mind now? Have you?"
"Calm down, it's not like I'm going to do it!" After a small pause, Cindy continued, "I told her I'd think about it."
"You-" Just moments ago, Lindsay had been all set on forgetting about the case for a while, just enjoying the warm weight of Cindy in her arms and the hint of a fantasy of what could happen if she just made a little less of an effort of keeping her hands still. The new information had the effect of a cold shower. "Is that how you define staying away?"
"You didn't say I couldn't talk to her at all," Cindy defended herself. "She trusts me. Lucinda might know something that she isn't even aware of, and that could help us solve the murders."
Us. Lindsay winced though it was basically true. Cindy had had quite a share in past investigations. Lindsay didn't mind sharing the glory. She just wanted Cindy to stay away from dangers she wasn't equipped for, and her own constant failure of that mission worried her.
"I won't go on another date," Cindy assured her. "Except if... you know, Linda Hanson asks me out. Even if she was kind of cruel with that line about Redheads."
"Well, there is that." Lindsay cleared her throat, very self-conscious all of a sudden. At the time, there hadn't been a lot of alternatives to a quick and somewhat cruel response. "So what's your specialty?" Worry, attraction, it was a dangerous mix of feelings.
Cindy met her gaze unflinchingly. "Arabian Nights. I'm gonna make all your fantasies come true."
Somehow, there wasn't enough air left for Lindsay to take the deep breath she needed to take. Cindy leaned closer, her palm cool on Lindsay's heated face. "And you know what's the best?"
What a question.Every single moment was too good to be true. "You tell me," she said, her voice dropping to a low whisper.
"For you it's all free."
Cindy closed the space between them, pressing her lips against Lindsay's, her tongue slipping inside as Lindsay pulled her closer. This was only a reprieve, she knew. Before they could head into this direction, acknowledge what was between them, they had to provide closure to the victims who hadn't been given that chance.
***
Lindsay had left for her 'Unforgettable' date; Claire announced that she was going to head home, too. Cindy watched her go with a sigh. "I should go home, too. I've got work to do."
"Actually I was hoping you'd come check out this new club on Howard with me." When Cindy failed to answer right away, Jill misinterpreted her hesitation. "I told Lindsay it was only fair when she is sipping $300 champagne with Katheryn that I kidnap her girl for a night out."
"You planned that." Cindy wasn't sure whether she should be annoyed at that description when in fact, it made her heart beat a little faster. Well, truth be told, every time someone mentioned Lindsay in her presence had that effect. She got it bad, and she loved that, even more so because since last night's unexpectantly sweet turn. It wasn't like much had happened, and Lindsay had said something about taking it slow, but it was a promise Cindy had hardly dared to hope for. She was all for taking it slow.
And this evening, talking the case through again, they'd held hands under the table.
"You used exactly those words?" she said after a long while.
Jill smiled knowingly. "You two are so cute," she teased. "According to Lindsay, if I take good care of you which I plan to, I'm allowed to take you out. She also said to ask you, since of course you make your own decisions."
"Wow," was the most eloquent response Cindy was capable of. She wryly acknowledged that she probably wouldn't get any work done tonight, with her thoughts being accupied otherwise. "Let's go then."
***
It was less than an hour later that Lindsay found herself in the ER, talking to a young doctor who was still under shock. His colleagues were frantically working to keep Elizabeth Brennan alive, but for Officer Grant, the assigned guard outside Brennan's hospital room, all help came too late. He'd been injected with a lethal substance that was yet to be determined.
The killer had cut off the patient's air supply. Brennan was still alive, but she had slipped into a coma.
It was not a good moment to spend the night in an expensive restaurant, Lindsay thought, but it wasn't really she had much of a choice.
Sitting across from Katheryn Myers, she had a hard time to focus for a variety of reasons. There was trying not to think of the list or having any inaproriate thoughts about her friend. There was trying not to fantasize about Cindy who was having a girls' night out with said friend.
And lastly, the visit to the hospital had rattled her more than she was ready to admit. Elizabeth Brennan still could die; she'd been strong enough to escape from hell, and they had failed to protect her. If she surivived and was able to talk at some point, she was probably the only one who could describe the killer. 'If's that were too big for Lindsay's liking.
"You look tired," Katheryn observed. "I know that wasn't the plan, but I know a place where you could get a great massage. Not far from here."
"Really?" Not that she had any intention to go.
"My place." Katheryn winked.
Lindsay gave her a smile to show both susprise and interest. "I thought... in the contract..."
"Lucinda trusts you. When that's the case, there's always the possiblity to, let's say, extend the contract."
"That's... amazing." Lindsay thought that quite a few people would think differently. For once, Tom. She stifled a grin at the idea of having to explain to him.
That, and she was quite literally taken. Hook, line and sinker. Thinking of Cindy, her smile turned a little more genuine. "Another time, I'd love to," she said. "Speaking of trust. I read about your colleagues in the paper, I'm sorry."
A pained expression crossed the young woman's face. "That's so horrible. Even more, for the children who are left behind."
"Children?" If any of the victims had had children, why didn't they know that?
"Sure. Alina had two kids who are living with the Dad after they divorced. But I don't want to bring you down. How about you tell me a little more about that paper business of yours? You're producing in how many countries?"
Lindsay got up from her chair. "Seventeen. I'll be right back. I'm sorry, Katheryn, I have to make a quick phone call."
***
"Guess what," Jacobi who met her in the hallway, said. "Peters' ex is still at large, but the daddy of Alina's kids owns the business that produces the paper slips for those Unforgettable CDs. How much is that for a coincidence?"
"Not much," she said, smiling to herself as she picked up her phone. "Let's see if a friend of ours can get a rush on a warrant."
***
"What do you want from me? I haven't spoken to Alina in two years, ever since she decided to go crazy. I had to protect the girls. They never need to know about her mother's perversions."
Jill had her cell phone turned off, but at least Denise had been very helpful with getting them the warrant they needed to pick up Alina's ex-husband who brought up the children with his new wife.
Lindsay got up from where she'd sat across from him, crossing her arms over her chest. "Mr. Atkinson, what 'perversion' exactly are you talking about?"
"Alina is a freaking lesbian!" he snapped.
"Oh, that." Lindsay shared a look with Jacobi who rolled his eyes behind the man's back. "Your information is a bit outdated. It's not illegal. It's not even considered a disorder anymore. So did you have any other reasons to keep the girls from their mother?"
"It's enough reason for me." Atkinson gave her a contemptuous look. "Wouldn't expect you to get it. The way you talk, I'm thinking you're one of them."
"The way you talk," Jacobi pushed himself off the wall and walked closer, before Lindsay could return anything to that, "I'm thinking you really had it in for your ex-wife. So if you can just give as an alibi, any kind, we'd all be more than happy to end this conversation."
Atkinson rolled his eyes. "I was on a plane. Business trip. I suppose that would be easy enough for you to check.. Can I go now?" He didn't wait for an answer, just stood up. "I didn't kill the sick bitch, but don't expect me to grieve a lot."
As he was turning to the door, Lindsay stepped into his personal space. "We'll check that alibi, thank you very much, Mr. Atkinson. Meanwhile, I'd like to remind you that your ex-wife was brutally murdered, along with two other women that we know of. The fact that you seem to very much agree with the killer will keep you on our radar."
"Bitch," he murmured before he yanked the door open.
"What an idiot," Jacobi commented.
"How can he possibly tell?" Lindsay wondered, more to herself.
"Tell what?"
"Nothing. Nothing at all."
***
After a few drinks Cindy had finally loosened up enough to say yes right away when Jill asked her to dance. She couldn't help but let her thoughts stray a little, wondering what it would be like. With Lindsay. With the case and all, there hadn't been much time to do anything beyond words and kisses. Not that that hadn't been great. Dancing hadn't been on the list yet, and with Jill's arms around her, Cindy had to wonder what had taken her so long.
"So you're finally moving forward. I'm glad. Did you sleep together yet?"
Cindy gasped, sure that the colorful changing lights were not enough to hide her blush. "Come on!" she protested, though not really surprised by the question.
Jill sm iled widely. "What? It's a valid question. You've been doing that yearning thing for almost a year now. Trust me, Claire and I almost couldn't stand it any longer."
Hanging out with a good friend, slightly plastered, could be a dangerous combination. As weird as it seemed to discuss the subject on a packed dancefloor, Cindy couldn't seem to hold her tongue. "Well yeah, that's because I... I mean... I haven't," she told Jill's shoulder and dropped her gaze to the floor before she added, "With a woman. And don't you dare laugh at me."
"I wouldn't dare." Jill tipped her chin up to make Cindy face her. "It'll be okay. You'll figure it out. Two virgins, huh? I'd so like to be there when you do."
Even though her face was burning, Cindy couldn't help but laugh. Jill just easily made her. "Great. No offense, but I don't think I want you to at that point."
"So later?"
"Be careful what you offer," Cindy countered.
Chuckling, Jill pulled her closer. "Don't you worry. You're going to be great together. And since I clearly have more experience than you two, you have no choice but to believe me."
Aside from all the more or less alcohol-induced silliness; Cindy realized she could see the truth in Jill's words. It seemed too good to be true, and still made her senselessly happy. "Thank you," she said earnestly.
"You're welcome. See, I'm a sucker for happy endings."
***
By the time Cindy crawled under the sheets of her bed, she was bone-tired, but still just barely resisting the impulse to call Lindsay, just to hear her voice. She was ridiculously in love, and didn't feel sorry for it at all.
She also had an important story to tell that could hopefully be a wake up call for a lot of people. Lucinda Bradshaw's side business, illegal as it was, wasn't the biggest focus, and not just because a friend was involved.
Soon enough, her body settled into a deep and restful sleep, not disturbed by any nightmares.
Cindy woke not from a sound, but the strange and disconcerting feeling that she wasn't alone in the room. The nightmare was real, and it lasted only for a few terrifying moments, a damp cloth pressed over her mouth and nose, her brief desperate struggle before darkness drowned her.
***
Author: Demeter
Fandom: Women's Murder Club
Pairing: Lindsay/Cindy
Summary: When a client and employee of an escort service get murdered, the club's investigations lead to unexpected revelations.
A/N: Thanks to everyone reading and commenting along!
Part 1
Part 2
Lindsay couldn't believe her eyes when Cindy opened the door to her in a red mini dress, slightly faded make-up, her hair falling onto her shoulders in soft, deliberately styled waves. Which could only mean one thing that left her battling with worry and irritation alike. The latter won.
"Damn it, Cindy!"
"I know! I'm sorry."
She really looked the part, Lindsay realized, but it wasn't enough for now. "Are you hurt? Tell me the truth."
"I am not. Lucinda called me and asked for one more date - I thought I could come up with something that could be of use to both of us." Cindy sighed. "I guess I did."
"We found Elizabeth Brennan today. She's not talking... severely traumatized."
"That's horrible," Cindy said softly, and for some reason she didn't want to think about, it made Lindsay want to shake her. Obviously sensing her stormy mood, Cindy added, "Try not to hate me?"
Of course, she could never hate her, quite the opposite, in fact, but Lindsay thought for going back to Unforgettable, she deserved to sweat a little. "What else do I have to give you to make you stop doing foolish and dangerous things?"
"I guess I have to give something to you this time." Cindy turned her laptop for Lindsay to see the screen, and clicked onto a folder labeled 'Sp.'
A list of files came up. Names. Lucinda Bradshaw had lied to Jacobi, after all, because these were names of the women working for her, and their 'specialties', together with names of their clients, and their preferences. Elaborated fantasies, matching clients with companions who'd make them come true.
Sybil Kramer had been among the women who offered more than just company for dinner or going to the theater, at least until she and Magdalene Sandoval became an item.
Lindsay was aware of Cindy watching her anxiously. "Okay, spill it. What could possibly be worse than you going back to that place when I practically begged you to stay away?"
"Try Katheryn Myers," Cindy mumbled, unable to meet her eyes.
Lindsay gave her another suspicious glance, then turned back to the screen and clicked on Myers' name, scanning the client list quickly. She stared at the words, speechless.
Jill Bernhardt: bi, likes to be in control, likes sex partner to be tied up, toys optional
Her face flushed as she tried to suppress the images that came with them. The anger rising within was more than sufficient for a distraction for any possibly inappropriate reaction, though. "Damn it, Jill," she said aloud. "Why the hell didn't she tell me?"
Cindy didn't say anything.
"What?"
"I suppose it's something you hardly share with anyone - even friends. Maybe, especially friends, when you're afraid they could be looking at you differently."
"That's stupid!"
Cindy flinched a little which made Lindsay feel guilty and curious in equal parts. "I would never... You're not saying--"
"I'm not saying anything. Except we need to talk to Jill about this. It could mean..."
"It could mean she's already on the guy's radar," Lindsay concluded grimly.
***
Claire was beginning to think she'd been left out of the loop regarding quite a few things. Her suspicion deepened when Jill sat across from her, telling her that Lindsay had called her to meet at Papa Joe's.
"That's strange. She was at her desk all morning, why didn't she just come over?"
Jill looked decidedly unhappy, but she didn't offer up any information.
"So what did you do, ask Cindy out?"
"No!" Jill protested indignantly. She sighed, starting to take the layers of her napkin apart and tear them into neat squares. "Of course not. Who would want to get in the way of true and undying love."
"What's that sentiment I detect there between the lines?"
"Nothing." Despite herself, Jill offered a smile, but it was shaded by worry. "I kept something from Lindsay," she confessed finally.
"I'm sure it can't be bad enough to--"
"Worse."
***
Jill could tell from the look on Lindsay's face that she knew, and the disappointment she was sensing made her feel defensive. Lindsay couldn't have expected her to come forward unless she really had no choice but to do so. It seemed like the moment had come earlier than Jill had hoped.
Cindy gave her an encouraging smile, but she seemed tense, too.
Predictably, Lindsay began, "Elizabeth Brennan is still not talking, but there are other news. Seems like Bradshaw has a side business she didn't tell Jacobi and Fong about, but it should be a lot more interesting for our killer than the escort service."
All of a sudden, there was a loaded silence at the table.
Claire was the one who broke it. "I know that it's an important fact for the case, but now we need to make sure there's no damage for... either of us."
At those words, Lindsay's eyes went wide. "You knew?" She hadn't once looked at Jill though.
"I told her ten minutes ago."
Lindsay was shaking her head in disblief. "Just great. So when were you planning for me to find out," she finally addressed Jill. "In court?"
"It's not something I wanted any of you to know," Jill said tersely.
"Oh, really? I can't remember you ever having been shy about details. Or wait, is it that this time, it's actually illegal?"
"Lindsay," Claire said warningly, but to no avail.
"I wonder how come you have developed this suicidal streak lately. Lois Lane here goes back for just one more date, that's after we've got the third body in this case. And you, Jill? Is what they offer really worth risking everything you've worked for? Hell, what we have worked for. It's not not like this doesn't concern each of us."
Lindsay clearly believed what she said, unaware of the lines she was crossing easily, but Jill who had been feeling anxious and scared ever since the first murder, decided she wouldn't have it. Having to hide was bad enough, but they were supposed to be her friends. Well, Claire at least had acted like one. Cindy might sympathize, but she had her own issues, being head over heels for Lindsay, another aspect the inspector seemed oblivious to.
"It does concern me," Jill said icily. "It's none of your business."
"It is now."
"So what irks you more about it, the fact that it was a woman, or that I paid for it?"
"I am not going to have this conversation with you here."
"Fine," Jill said and got up to walk to the door that lead out into the back, not turning to look if Lindsay was following her, knowing that she would.
***
"I feel bad for bringing it up," Cindy said wistfully.
"You had to," Claire reminded her. "Besides, if you had held that back, it would be you now Lindsay would be mad at. I guess you've had that already."
"Yeah." Cindy sighed. "I know this case is especially bad, but she sure is wound tight."
"She worries, because she cares. About Jill... and you." Especially you, she added silently.
Cindy took a hasty sip of her drink and promptly started coughing. "I hope this will be over soon," she said when the fit was over.
"Me too," Claire agreed, meaning more than the case.
***
"You're such a hypocrite!" Jill couldn't hold back the words any longer, and she didn' want to make the effort. Yes, she had been careless, and she was worried about what this list could mean for her career. That didn't mean she was okay with Lindsay giving her the cold sholder now. Especially when Jill was sure to know the reason for her friend's behavior.
"I'm not the one jeopardizing my career over my sex life."
"Right. You'd have to have one to do that!"
Lindsay stiffened, but she didn't comment. "I think this conversation is over."
"You're going to lose her."
"What?" Lindsay was still not in the mood for right, reason and logic, but Jill figured she had earned the right to tell her.
"She's going to find another woman who's just as gorgeous, passionate, and, less of a coward than you."
"Would you mind not calling me names?"
"You are all these things. Does it make you uncomfortable to hear them from a woman?" It was very clear that they wasn't talking about the coward accusation any longer. "Don't you worry, Linds. I don't think you'd be going along with my preferences either, considering that you're usually the one to slap the cuffs on others."
She could tell that Lindsay had a hard time not to smile which had nothing to do with the current situation, and everything with a memory that obviously came to mind. She returned to the matter at hand quickly, though.
"It wasn't just once, right? They wouldn't have kept a file on you otherwise."
"Correct." Jill didn't see any point in hiding the fact.
Lindsay nodded. "I'm trying to keep your name out of this."
"And I appreciate that. Just... talk to Cindy. She deserves that much. So do you, really."
"That's nice, but... let's see what we can about your situation here first."
Jill was relieved and annoyed in equal parts, but she figured the fact that Lindsay hadn't even tried to deny she really wanted to be with Cindy was a sliver of a beginning.
***
There were all kinds of conversations in her future that Lindsay dreaded. She'd try as promised to make sure Jill's name wouldn't appear in relation to Unforgettable's special business, but she couldn't do it on her own, so she probably wouldn't get around telling Tom.
About that other conversation... okay, Jill hadn't said she had to do it right away, but she had drawn out the future for Lindsay quite clearly. Cindy, beautiful and smart, would have no trouble finding someone. And it was true, while she had dragged her feet coming to the likely conclusion, Lindsay had enjoyed and relied on the younger woman's affection. Needed it, in fact. She just wasn't sure where to go from there. She hadn't even treated her very kind in the recent past, so Lindsay guessed she shouldn't have been surprised when Cindy looked very worried opening the door to her the next evening.
"I didn't do anything," she said by way of greeting.
"I know. It's just that--" The urge to turn and run was growing stronger by the minute. "I've been thinking about some things."
Cindy frowned a little at that, and Lindsay realized that her words had sounded quite cryptic.
"I'm sorry. I mean... I thought you might like to share this." She held up the bottle of wine she'd brought. "Since we still wait on the information about Peters' husband, and I won't have any date until the day after tomorrow--" Heavens, that sounded bad. Cindy now looked a little less worried, more amused.
"You're not asking me out, right?"
"In your dreams."
"Right."
Just like always, from the first time they'd met, during conversations about how great Pete was, to the present moment, there was something entirely different between the lines. It gave Lindsay hope. What had Jill said? Gorgeous. And a coward.
"It doesn't mean I'm okay with the risks you--"
"I know," Cindy said quietly. "I worry about you, too. Are you going to come in now, or are we continuing this conversation in the doorway?"
The conversation was being continued on Cindy's couch, still a little stiff and awkward, because Lindsay feared her intention was too obvious, while at the same time, she had no idea how to approach the subject. So she talked about Pete and how convenient he'd been until they came to the sensible conclusion to end a relationship that couldn't go anywhere. He'd been a friendly phantom living on the other side of the world, but making everyone back off regarding her dating life.
Well not everyone, Jill, with a load of problems on her own now, hadn't backed off. That was because she knew Lindsay better than most people.
"I'm so tired of this game, of always having to explain myself. That I need my space, that I take my job seriously."
"I understand that." With Cindy, she knew those weren't just empty words. "But don't you want to be with someone eventually?"
If I do, it has to be something meaningful. Something that lasts. Lindsay wondered if she'd scared Cindy away, had she spoken these words out loud. She turned to look into Cindy's eyes, intent on her, wide and hopeful.
Couldn't Jill have said anything sooner? Or maybe she was just as delusional as Lindsay was, because... this.. would be too good to be true. At least she could blame it on her friend then. "Jill read me the riot act," she confessed. "And I guess... she was somewhat right about it." She laughed self-consciously. "You know I'm not good at this under the best of circumstances, and, well the circumstances are less than perfect at the moment. So... it's true, I've been having... feelings for you, even before Pete."
"You have?"
Her face felt uncomfortably hot, but Cindy put her out of her misery quickly, leaning in to press her lips against Lindsay's softly. Once given permission, she couldn't turn back, the light touch turning to something as deep and intense as her hopes had been to this moment. Not a fantasy any longer.
"Thank you for saying it," Cindy whispered, and just for that, Lindsay had to kiss her again.
***
They spent some time regrouping over lunch break. While Jill was still worried sick about the consequences that might await her, she couldn't help but smile when she saw Lindsay and Cindy in the booth together, holding hands. That was fast. She'd always known that all they needed was a gently friend-ly push.
"Hey." She leaned in to kiss Lindsay on the cheek for greeting. At her puzzled look, she said cheerily, "We'll scratch 'coward' off the list. Congratulations, girls."
"Well thanks. I'm relieved," Lindsay drawled, and Jill breathed a sigh of relief. It was good to know that she wasn't blazing mad at her any more. Seemed like Lindsay had had the opportunity for some unwinding after all. Cindy simply looked very happy. That must have been some mutual confession.
Jill thought ruefully that she couldn't wait for this damn case to be over so things could go back to relatively normal for all of them. "Other than that," she continued, "Maria Peters' husband has some interesting history. Assault, breaking and entering, convicted every time."
"That's what has me a little worried," Lindsay said just as Claire arrived. "Is he clever enough to pull off a scene like this? He seems choleric, not a planner."
"So Maria told me when we went out," Cindy chimed in.
If the situation hadn't been as serious as it was, Jill might have been amused at the quick, not-so-amused sideways look Lindsay gave her at that. Cindy cast her an apologetic glance in return and said, "I might be able to get more. Lucinda texted me that Maria would like to meet me again, and she also wanted to talk to me about something..."
"You forgot to mention that last night," Lindsay said suspiciously, completely unaware of the revelation she'd just made.
"Yes, I forgot," Cindy returned with a hint of defensiveness. "I was distracted."
"You shouldn't be anywhere near Peters at the moment." In this, Jill could easily take Lindsay's side. The client's jealous ex-husband didn't seem like a very aimiable person, judging from his file. Claire nodded.
"However, maybe you could call Lucinda and see what she has for you. You could say you read about Peters and are a bit worried, too."
"Sounds reasonable." Even Lindsay had to admit it. She took a look at her watch and sighed. "I've got to head back. Appointment with Tom in fifteen minutes."
Jill didn't need further information. She knew that her name was going to come up in that meeting.
"I've got to go too," Cindy said, getting up quickly. Jill smiled a little at the sight of her hurrying to keep up with Lindsay. She started when Claire touched her arm.
"It's going to be alright. Lindsay is adjusting well as ou can see, and Tom will want to keep this under tabs too," she said, reading Jill's worries exactly.
"I hope so." With a heavy sigh, she leaned forward as Claire placed a comforting hand on the small of her back.
***
"You knew that a Deputy District Attorney was involved in this and you didn't tell me?"
Lindsay winced a bit at Tom's sudden raise of his voice. "It's true, but--"
"But?" he cut her off. "Linz, you have no idea what's going to happen if we don't close this case, and soon. I've looked the other way before, because you usually come up with good results, but this time, I can't. Jill has to be off the case. I won't even start about Ms. Thomas."
You better not. Lindsay barely held back the words. "Tom, I need your help here. We need to keep Jill's name out of this mess."
"I hate to say it but she should have thought of the consequences in the first place."
"I wasn't going to discuss the moral aspect with you," she said sharply.
"I wasn't going to." The implied reprimand hadn't gone unnoticed by him. "I'll try. I can't promise you anything."
"Fair enough. Thanks, Tom."
He gave her a long thoughtful look that made her slightly uncomfortable. "What?"
"Nothing. I'll see what I can do. I'd hate for the DA's office to lose her over this."
"Yeah, me too." Lindsay knew he was genuine about this, so she left his office a little more hopeful than she'd been before, wondering what it was that Lucinda Bradshaw had to offer to Cindy.
***
Cindy had voiced her concern about going out with Maria once more to a surprisingly understanding Lucinda. "That's okay, dear," she said. "About the other thing though, I'd like to see you. How does a late lunch sound? I'll pay."
Meeting her in a public place couldn't be all that dangerous, Cindy decided and agreed. "I might not be hungry, but I'm curious about what you have to tell me."
Lucinda laughed. "I hope. I'll see you in ten minutes, Cindy."
By the time Cindy arrived at the restaurant, Lucinda had already ordered two glasses of champagne. "Have a seat," she said, smilling pleasantly.
"What's the occasion?" It was remarkable how well this woman could compartmentalize.
"You haven't been with us for long, Cindy, but I've got to tell you, you're pretty popular. Remember Linda? She apologized and asked especially for you the next time."
"I bet she did," Cindy muttered, but she couldn't stop the smile spread across her face. "Thanks," she added, refering to Lucinda's earlier statement.
"You're welcome. And I trust you. That's why I wanted to talk to you. I've got an offer for you."
"I'm not sure I can do this much longer," Cindy said honestly.
"Look, it might happen that you find yourself attracted to a client. The attraction might be mutual."
"Um, okay, I know. I can't be their escort then. But that wasn't the reason with Maria. She's nice and all, but I'm a little scared of her ex. He vandalized her store."
Lucinda nodded somberly. "I know, but I wasn't talking about Maria. Just in case this scenario should happen, there's a possiblitiy that you can be something more to them. You're funny and smart. You're special, Cindy."
Cindy felt her face heat with the blunt praise.
"We make special offers at Unforgettable. You choose what, and who you are comfortable with, and fulfill a fantasy for both of you."
"I'd do Arabian Nights." Cindy laughed nervously. "I've been told I talk too much."
Lucinda smiled affectionately. "Just think about it. Like I said, you're popular. You think about it and then give me a list of things you might need. I'll get you everything."
And I bet you'll create a special folder for me."Thank you," Cindy smiled, thinking that there was only one person she'd wanted to fulfill any fantasies with. Maybe, starting tonight.
"This sounds very interesting."
***
This time, it was Cindy showing up on her doorstep, and it was pretty clear that both of them still had some adjusting to do as to the new situation. After a moment of hesitating about what would be the right way of greeting while having some very specific ideas on her mind, Lindsay just pulled her inside and kissed her softly. Specific ideas could wait for later, she reasoned.
"So you missed me?" Cindy asked hopefully.
"Very much," Lindsay confessed even though they'd seen each other at lunchtime. "I hope you haven't eaten yet."
"Did you order in?"
"Actually, I cooked," she said, feeling somewhat offended that Cindy obviously had a hard time imagining it. "I do, every now and then, so you don't have to look so worried."
"I'm not." Cindy smiled, and Lindsay thought resignedly that she was clearly unable to be mad with her for any length of time. "Actually, I'm starving. How about we eat first and then I'll tell you all about Lucinda's plans for me?"
How about after that, we'll move on to all those plans I have for you? "Good." Lindsay turned rather apruptly to hide the blush creeping up her face rapidly.
***
After dinner, they sat together on the couch once again, talking through the specifics of what would and what wouldn't go into Cindy's story. Something had righted itself, Lindsay thought, some of the tension gone now that the cards were on the table and they could actually talk about work again.
Another kind of tension - just growing. But there was no way of indulging it now, and truth be told Lindsay was just a bit relieved about it.
For the moment, she was pretty happy with the way things were, Cindy close beside her. The possibilities... endless. At least after this case was closed.
"So what was it Lucinda had to tell you?"
Cindy started a bit at that; she'd been leaning closer continually and had obviously been just about to go to sleep. Lindsay found it extremely endearing. "Long night yesterday?" she asked teasingly.
Smiling up at her, Cindy answered, "Kind of. I've had a lot on my mind... anyway. Lucinda offered me a spot on the specialty list."
"What?" Lindsay sat up straight. "Has she lost her mind now? Have you?"
"Calm down, it's not like I'm going to do it!" After a small pause, Cindy continued, "I told her I'd think about it."
"You-" Just moments ago, Lindsay had been all set on forgetting about the case for a while, just enjoying the warm weight of Cindy in her arms and the hint of a fantasy of what could happen if she just made a little less of an effort of keeping her hands still. The new information had the effect of a cold shower. "Is that how you define staying away?"
"You didn't say I couldn't talk to her at all," Cindy defended herself. "She trusts me. Lucinda might know something that she isn't even aware of, and that could help us solve the murders."
Us. Lindsay winced though it was basically true. Cindy had had quite a share in past investigations. Lindsay didn't mind sharing the glory. She just wanted Cindy to stay away from dangers she wasn't equipped for, and her own constant failure of that mission worried her.
"I won't go on another date," Cindy assured her. "Except if... you know, Linda Hanson asks me out. Even if she was kind of cruel with that line about Redheads."
"Well, there is that." Lindsay cleared her throat, very self-conscious all of a sudden. At the time, there hadn't been a lot of alternatives to a quick and somewhat cruel response. "So what's your specialty?" Worry, attraction, it was a dangerous mix of feelings.
Cindy met her gaze unflinchingly. "Arabian Nights. I'm gonna make all your fantasies come true."
Somehow, there wasn't enough air left for Lindsay to take the deep breath she needed to take. Cindy leaned closer, her palm cool on Lindsay's heated face. "And you know what's the best?"
What a question.Every single moment was too good to be true. "You tell me," she said, her voice dropping to a low whisper.
"For you it's all free."
Cindy closed the space between them, pressing her lips against Lindsay's, her tongue slipping inside as Lindsay pulled her closer. This was only a reprieve, she knew. Before they could head into this direction, acknowledge what was between them, they had to provide closure to the victims who hadn't been given that chance.
***
Lindsay had left for her 'Unforgettable' date; Claire announced that she was going to head home, too. Cindy watched her go with a sigh. "I should go home, too. I've got work to do."
"Actually I was hoping you'd come check out this new club on Howard with me." When Cindy failed to answer right away, Jill misinterpreted her hesitation. "I told Lindsay it was only fair when she is sipping $300 champagne with Katheryn that I kidnap her girl for a night out."
"You planned that." Cindy wasn't sure whether she should be annoyed at that description when in fact, it made her heart beat a little faster. Well, truth be told, every time someone mentioned Lindsay in her presence had that effect. She got it bad, and she loved that, even more so because since last night's unexpectantly sweet turn. It wasn't like much had happened, and Lindsay had said something about taking it slow, but it was a promise Cindy had hardly dared to hope for. She was all for taking it slow.
And this evening, talking the case through again, they'd held hands under the table.
"You used exactly those words?" she said after a long while.
Jill smiled knowingly. "You two are so cute," she teased. "According to Lindsay, if I take good care of you which I plan to, I'm allowed to take you out. She also said to ask you, since of course you make your own decisions."
"Wow," was the most eloquent response Cindy was capable of. She wryly acknowledged that she probably wouldn't get any work done tonight, with her thoughts being accupied otherwise. "Let's go then."
***
It was less than an hour later that Lindsay found herself in the ER, talking to a young doctor who was still under shock. His colleagues were frantically working to keep Elizabeth Brennan alive, but for Officer Grant, the assigned guard outside Brennan's hospital room, all help came too late. He'd been injected with a lethal substance that was yet to be determined.
The killer had cut off the patient's air supply. Brennan was still alive, but she had slipped into a coma.
It was not a good moment to spend the night in an expensive restaurant, Lindsay thought, but it wasn't really she had much of a choice.
Sitting across from Katheryn Myers, she had a hard time to focus for a variety of reasons. There was trying not to think of the list or having any inaproriate thoughts about her friend. There was trying not to fantasize about Cindy who was having a girls' night out with said friend.
And lastly, the visit to the hospital had rattled her more than she was ready to admit. Elizabeth Brennan still could die; she'd been strong enough to escape from hell, and they had failed to protect her. If she surivived and was able to talk at some point, she was probably the only one who could describe the killer. 'If's that were too big for Lindsay's liking.
"You look tired," Katheryn observed. "I know that wasn't the plan, but I know a place where you could get a great massage. Not far from here."
"Really?" Not that she had any intention to go.
"My place." Katheryn winked.
Lindsay gave her a smile to show both susprise and interest. "I thought... in the contract..."
"Lucinda trusts you. When that's the case, there's always the possiblity to, let's say, extend the contract."
"That's... amazing." Lindsay thought that quite a few people would think differently. For once, Tom. She stifled a grin at the idea of having to explain to him.
That, and she was quite literally taken. Hook, line and sinker. Thinking of Cindy, her smile turned a little more genuine. "Another time, I'd love to," she said. "Speaking of trust. I read about your colleagues in the paper, I'm sorry."
A pained expression crossed the young woman's face. "That's so horrible. Even more, for the children who are left behind."
"Children?" If any of the victims had had children, why didn't they know that?
"Sure. Alina had two kids who are living with the Dad after they divorced. But I don't want to bring you down. How about you tell me a little more about that paper business of yours? You're producing in how many countries?"
Lindsay got up from her chair. "Seventeen. I'll be right back. I'm sorry, Katheryn, I have to make a quick phone call."
***
"Guess what," Jacobi who met her in the hallway, said. "Peters' ex is still at large, but the daddy of Alina's kids owns the business that produces the paper slips for those Unforgettable CDs. How much is that for a coincidence?"
"Not much," she said, smiling to herself as she picked up her phone. "Let's see if a friend of ours can get a rush on a warrant."
***
"What do you want from me? I haven't spoken to Alina in two years, ever since she decided to go crazy. I had to protect the girls. They never need to know about her mother's perversions."
Jill had her cell phone turned off, but at least Denise had been very helpful with getting them the warrant they needed to pick up Alina's ex-husband who brought up the children with his new wife.
Lindsay got up from where she'd sat across from him, crossing her arms over her chest. "Mr. Atkinson, what 'perversion' exactly are you talking about?"
"Alina is a freaking lesbian!" he snapped.
"Oh, that." Lindsay shared a look with Jacobi who rolled his eyes behind the man's back. "Your information is a bit outdated. It's not illegal. It's not even considered a disorder anymore. So did you have any other reasons to keep the girls from their mother?"
"It's enough reason for me." Atkinson gave her a contemptuous look. "Wouldn't expect you to get it. The way you talk, I'm thinking you're one of them."
"The way you talk," Jacobi pushed himself off the wall and walked closer, before Lindsay could return anything to that, "I'm thinking you really had it in for your ex-wife. So if you can just give as an alibi, any kind, we'd all be more than happy to end this conversation."
Atkinson rolled his eyes. "I was on a plane. Business trip. I suppose that would be easy enough for you to check.. Can I go now?" He didn't wait for an answer, just stood up. "I didn't kill the sick bitch, but don't expect me to grieve a lot."
As he was turning to the door, Lindsay stepped into his personal space. "We'll check that alibi, thank you very much, Mr. Atkinson. Meanwhile, I'd like to remind you that your ex-wife was brutally murdered, along with two other women that we know of. The fact that you seem to very much agree with the killer will keep you on our radar."
"Bitch," he murmured before he yanked the door open.
"What an idiot," Jacobi commented.
"How can he possibly tell?" Lindsay wondered, more to herself.
"Tell what?"
"Nothing. Nothing at all."
***
After a few drinks Cindy had finally loosened up enough to say yes right away when Jill asked her to dance. She couldn't help but let her thoughts stray a little, wondering what it would be like. With Lindsay. With the case and all, there hadn't been much time to do anything beyond words and kisses. Not that that hadn't been great. Dancing hadn't been on the list yet, and with Jill's arms around her, Cindy had to wonder what had taken her so long.
"So you're finally moving forward. I'm glad. Did you sleep together yet?"
Cindy gasped, sure that the colorful changing lights were not enough to hide her blush. "Come on!" she protested, though not really surprised by the question.
Jill sm iled widely. "What? It's a valid question. You've been doing that yearning thing for almost a year now. Trust me, Claire and I almost couldn't stand it any longer."
Hanging out with a good friend, slightly plastered, could be a dangerous combination. As weird as it seemed to discuss the subject on a packed dancefloor, Cindy couldn't seem to hold her tongue. "Well yeah, that's because I... I mean... I haven't," she told Jill's shoulder and dropped her gaze to the floor before she added, "With a woman. And don't you dare laugh at me."
"I wouldn't dare." Jill tipped her chin up to make Cindy face her. "It'll be okay. You'll figure it out. Two virgins, huh? I'd so like to be there when you do."
Even though her face was burning, Cindy couldn't help but laugh. Jill just easily made her. "Great. No offense, but I don't think I want you to at that point."
"So later?"
"Be careful what you offer," Cindy countered.
Chuckling, Jill pulled her closer. "Don't you worry. You're going to be great together. And since I clearly have more experience than you two, you have no choice but to believe me."
Aside from all the more or less alcohol-induced silliness; Cindy realized she could see the truth in Jill's words. It seemed too good to be true, and still made her senselessly happy. "Thank you," she said earnestly.
"You're welcome. See, I'm a sucker for happy endings."
***
By the time Cindy crawled under the sheets of her bed, she was bone-tired, but still just barely resisting the impulse to call Lindsay, just to hear her voice. She was ridiculously in love, and didn't feel sorry for it at all.
She also had an important story to tell that could hopefully be a wake up call for a lot of people. Lucinda Bradshaw's side business, illegal as it was, wasn't the biggest focus, and not just because a friend was involved.
Soon enough, her body settled into a deep and restful sleep, not disturbed by any nightmares.
Cindy woke not from a sound, but the strange and disconcerting feeling that she wasn't alone in the room. The nightmare was real, and it lasted only for a few terrifying moments, a damp cloth pressed over her mouth and nose, her brief desperate struggle before darkness drowned her.
***