The Music Box Killer: A Derek Reed Thriller, #3

CHAPTER ONE

Charlene danced a jig as she stared at the package. It had arrived earlier that morning, but events of the day kept her from opening it until now. She checked the return address. Hmm. Who could this be from?

This added to her excitement and curiosity. Her fiancé liked to send her things, and she figured this was another gift from him. She ripped open the box and flung out the tissue paper. There were two presents inside.

Ooh, she said, pulling the first one from the box. A beautiful pink sheer nighty. She removed her clothes and tried it on. The heart-shaped neckline accentuated her full breasts. As she spun around, the baby doll shape of the gown floated in the air. The matching panties made it look more classy than trashy. It hung to her knees, but the sheerness of the material kept it from looking like something a grandma would wear.

She admired herself in the full-length mirror. This is so pretty. She stopped spinning. I can’t wait to see his face when I tell him he can’t see me in it until our honeymoon. She giggled at her devious plan to torture him for the next three weeks.

Charlene stopped twirling. Her gaze landed on the gift. She pranced to the bed and took out the plain white box. Her eyebrows drew together. She opened it and lifted out the contents.

Made from antique metal, the oval shape made it hard for her to recognize it. The ornate design on the outside had birds and butterflies etched into the surface. In between the metal work, colored glass made the butterflies and birds pop.

She lifted the lid, and a butterfly spun slowly to a classical song. When it stopped, she flipped the music box over and turned the heart-shaped key. The butterfly spun again. Captivated by the beautiful lullaby it played, she didn’t hear the doorbell chime.

When the music stopped, she heard someone at the door. She threw clothes all around until she found her heavy robe. I’m coming! she yelled as she put on the robe and hurried towards the door.

The bell chimed again.

I said hang on, she yanked the door open. Can I help you?

A delivery person smiled at her. Did you receive a package earlier?

She squinted at the woman. Yes. She looked at the badge hanging on the front of the uniform.

I’m so sorry, but my colleague was supposed to get a signature. If I don’t get one, I can be in a lot of trouble. See, I’m training him, and I don’t want to lose my job.

I understand. Please come in. I don’t want to let all my cool air out. Charlene stepped back, holding the door open for her.

Thank you so much, the woman said.

As Charlene closed the door, a hand clasped over her mouth and nose. Another arm reached around her waist. She struggled against her attacker, but couldn’t get a firm grip on her arm.

A sweet odor filled her nostrils, then the same sweet taste coated the back of her throat. She clenched her fists. Her eyes widened, burning as the tears stung. Adrenaline rushed through her system. She jerked violently before she passed out. 

The intruder dragged Charlene into the living room and removed her robe. How nice. You are wearing my gift. Saves me a lot of work. The woman searched the rooms looking for the music box. Retrieving it from the bedroom, the woman returned to the entryway.

Kneeling next to Charlene, the woman pulled a ribbon from the front pocket of her pants. She caressed Charlene’s hair. I know you don’t understand why I’m doing this, but I promise, it’s for your own good. Your fiancé will do nothing but hurt you and crush your soul.

The woman placed Charlene in the position she wanted. Before proceeding, she ensured the ribbon was in the correct spot around her neck. I’m going to set you free, Charlene. You won’t suffer any longer. The lies he will tell, and the embarrassment you will suffer at his hands would be too much for you.

The woman lifted the gown. It had to stay perfect. She glanced one more time at the young woman. I’m here to save you. Think of me as your angel of mercy.

CHAPTER TWO

Tuesday early morning.

A light snore woke Derek. He reached his arm out to pull Lizzy close to him. Instead, he got a handful of fur. Cracking one eye open as Lola, Lizzy’s boxer, greeted him with a big wet kiss.

Really? Why are you here? Derek lifted his head. Lizzy? he called out looking at the other side of the bed. Where is your mama? Huh? he asked, scratching the dog.

Lola groaned, rolling over and exposing her belly.

Derek rose, pulling on the pair of underwear lying on the floor. Lizzy? he called out as he walked down the hallway. Lizzy?

Lola ran past, hoping to get an early breakfast.

Lola, it’s not time to eat yet. Derek peeked into the kitchen as he walked by. Empty. He walked through the archway and around the corner into the living room.

Lola stopped. Her hackles bristled. A low rumble emanated from her chest.

The hair on his arms lifted. His stomach felt rock hard. The room looked empty. Yet his body and Lola said otherwise. Lizzy? Derek walked over to the sliding glass door and touched a button on the wall.

The opaque coloring cleared, allowing the dim lights of the early morning to shine into the room. The dew on the grass looked undisturbed. He turned to see Lola staring at him.

She made a move towards the spare room, then turned and looked at him. Lola barked and took a step, glancing back at him.

Okay. What’s up, girl? He followed her.

Lola stopped outside the second bedroom’s door, growling.

When Derek reached for the doorknob, a static charge arced. What the hell? he said, yanking his hand back. Reaching for the knob again, he hesitated, then grabbed it. Twisting with force, he pushed on the door. It didn’t budge. He took a deep breath and repeated the same steps. This time, he used his body weight and forced the door open.

Swinging open with ease, Derek caught himself before he fell to the floor. Crap, he said. Lizzy? Derek called into the room. No answer. The room’s creepy darkness engulfed him. As he reached for the light switch, he felt a hand on his. He jerked his hand back touching his skin.

Lola’s low growl turned into a high-pitch bark.

Derek quickly scanned the room. The dim light from the hallway cast a shadow around him. Lola. Stop barking.

Lola’s bark intensified as a rush of cool air swirled around them.

Derek heard a woman’s voice.

Help me.

Lizzy? Derek flipped the light switch. It didn’t turn on. Shit. As he pushed open the door to let more light in, it slammed shut.

Lola growled. She placed herself between Derek and the perceived threat of harm.

Help me! Derek.

Lizzy, where are you? It was almost pitch-black, but there was enough light coming through from under the door to keep him from bumping into furniture. As he moved around a shelf next to the wall, a full-length mirror came into view. He jumped back and grabbed his chest when he saw his reflection. Fuck. His pulse raced.

Lola stopped. She glanced up at him.

Sorry, he said reaching down and scratching her head. When he looked up, a young woman’s reflection glowed in the mirror.

Lola saw her. She shifted her stance, putting herself at the ready to protect Derek. Her growl intensified.

Derek froze. The young woman wore a nightgown, and her long brown hair cascaded over her shoulders. She held out a music box. When he took a step closer, he saw blood oozing from a wound beneath a large white ribbon around her neck.

Help me. Please.

Lola barked at the mirror.

Reaching his hand out, he placed his fingers inches from the glass. Just as he was about to touch it, the bedroom door flew open.

What the hell are you two doing? Didn’t you hear me calling you? Lizzy asked, standing in her running gear.

Derek jumped.

Lola ran to her, wiggling her tail and yapping with excitement.

Derek turned back to the mirror. Nothing but glass. He looked at Lizzy. Um. We heard a noise. Me and Lola came to investigate. I thought it was you.

Why would I be in here? she turned and walked towards the kitchen.

Hot on her heels, Lola ran to the cupboard holding her food, and sat waiting for her breakfast.

Lizzy filled her bowl, then turned towards Derek. You don’t look so hot. Do you feel okay?

Yeah. I guess I got startled when you weren’t in the bed. He filled a cup with coffee. Did you brew this before your run?

She nodded as she added milk and sugar. Yes. She sighed, as she took the first sip. I couldn’t sleep. I needed to clear my head.

Derek glanced over his shoulder at the spare room.

Derek?

Huh? he said as he turned and faced her.

What is going on with you? Lizzy stared at his green eyes. Emerald in color with pops of gold flecks. His mix of boyish features and strong jawline coupled with those eyes, made it hard not to be attracted to him.

Running his hand through his wavy hair, he tugged on the ends. I don’t know. I guess I’m worried about you.

She went to him. You have nothing to worry about. She tussled his hair. You know how much you mean to me. No one can ever take your place.

Derek took her in his arms. And what about Congressman Jackson? he regretted it the minute he said it. He stepped back looking down. I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have said that.

She lifted his chin. You and I have a unique relationship. I care for you, and I care for him. But it isn’t the same. I just need some time to figure out the best way to deal with things. She raised up on her toes and kissed his lips.

He pulled her close to him and soaked it in. His hands roamed across her body. The kiss deepened. He was about to lift her up and carry her to the bedroom when his phone rang. Shit.

I’m too sweaty, anyway. She waited as he answered.

Lola had wedged herself between their legs, making sure not to be left out.

Lizzy bent down and kissed her nose. You silly dog.

Derek moved towards the kitchen counter. Okay. Yeah. You don’t want me to bring my crew? I don’t understand. He sipped his coffee. Okay. Just me. I’ll be there.

Lizzy eased herself up and sat on the edge of the counter. What’s going on?

That was Dr. Callahan. He’s with my director and Dr. Chelsea. I need to go to a crime scene.

Sounds a little cryptic.

Derek finished his cup of coffee. I’m supposed to show up alone.

Do you have time to eat?

No. I need to get dressed and go. He took her by the hand. Kissing her fingertips, he reached out and caressed her cheek. I love you, Lizzy. I don’t want you to think I am trying to keep you from living your life. You don’t owe me anything. And I will take whatever kind of relationship you want to give me, he said as he kissed her lips.

She laid her head against his bare chest. I know that. I just need some time. But you have must know I love you. That will never change. She leaned back, looking up at him.

I know that, too, Derek said, heading towards the bedroom.

Lizzy followed him.

Along with Lola.

She sat on the bed as he got dressed. Do you know when you might be done?

He popped his head out of the closet. No. But I will text you.

I need to take care of some business today. She laid back. I know I need to see Congressman Jackson. I keep putting it off. I’m just not in the mood to go to the gala. I’m not sure he will understand.

Derek put on a pair of new tennis shoes and tucked his short-sleeved oxford shirt into his jeans. He stepped over to her, clipping his gun and badge to his belt. If you don’t want to go, don’t. Jackson will understand. He bent over, holding himself above her face. If he gives you a hard time, tell me. And I will shoot him.

She laughed as she sat up. I totally believe you would. She scratched Lola’s ears. I may leave Lola here and go home before I run some errands. Plus, she loves the yard.

Lola can stay forever. He moved towards the doorway. So can you. I’ll call you later.

She listened as he headed out to the garage. She grabbed Lola by the cheeks. That wouldn’t be so bad, huh, Lola? To stay here forever?

CHAPTER THREE

Derek looked at his phone, checking the address. Not sure where he was going or why he had to be there at the butt crack of dawn, he longed to be back in his comfy bed with Lizzy. His shirt already sticking to him, he cranked his AC. Even in the middle of October, it was still too damn hot in Phoenix.

He considered some possibilities that would bring his director to a crime scene. And none of them were good. A knot formed in his stomach and a sour taste inched up his throat. Breathing slowly, he kept himself from throwing up his morning coffee.

Derek pushed the girl from the mirror out of his mind. He didn’t have time to think about who she was or what she wanted. Yet the vision was too real to say it was his imagination. Lola had seen her, too. His anxiety level rose with every mile he drove.

His phone pinged to make a right-hand turn. Pulling into a modest neighborhood, he saw the house at the same time the app said he’d arrived. Two police cars blocked off the street on either end.

A police officer approached his vehicle.

Derek rolled down his window.

This area is restricted. Do you live here?

I’m Agent Derek Reed with the FBI, he said, showing his ID to the officer.

Go on in, Agent. They are expecting you.

Derek drove to the home and parked in front of the house. As he exited his car, his heart beat at a sluggish rate. He twisted his head, making a popping sound. Looking at the entrance, all he could think about was how much he wanted to hide. Escape. Run as far away as he could.

The sour taste lingered at the back of his throat. He reached back into his car and grabbed a pack of gum from the middle console. Chewing on one piece, he then added another.

A Phoenix police officer checked his credentials at the door. Go in, Agent.

Derek nodded as he glanced back over his shoulder. The sun and police presence brought out the neighbors. He had a sneaking suspicion news crews would soon be on the scene. Fuck. This will not end well.

Entering the foyer, an iron taste filled his mouth. Oh hell, he said. He knew that taste all too well and not even the gum he chewed could hide it.

The cries of a woman filtered from a room down a short hallway off to his left.

Derek? Is that you? Dr. Callahan called out.

Yeah, it’s me, he said following the voice to the small living room. Derek saw his AD and Dr. Chelsea. Dr. Ronald Chelsea looked physically ill. The AD stepped to the side. The blood-soaked carpet came into view.

Derek took a few steps into the room. Holy shit. Air rushed out of his lungs. A young woman in a knee-high nighty lay on the floor. Her body was slit open from her groin to her sternum and her entrails were spread out in some sort of pattern. Derek tilted his head. If he didn’t know better, the girl’s guts looked like butterfly wings.

He glanced over his shoulder. Shaking off the feeling that someone stood right behind him, he focused on the dead girl. Her nightgown’s sheer material gave her an ethereal look. A white ribbon tied in a bow had been wrapped around her neck. 

Blood from the ear-to-ear gaping wound had dried, causing the edges of the skin to curl up and poke out from underneath the ribbon. He stepped closer. His skin broke out in a clammy sweat. She didn’t look like the girl from the mirror, she looked like the girl he saw when he had a CT scan a few weeks ago.

He avoided looking Dr. Ronald Chelsea in the eye. That didn’t stop him from feeling the weight of the man’s stare as he looked over the crime scene. In the moments following the CT scan, Derek described the dream he had about a girl who had appeared to be murdered. This girl. Focusing on his Assistant Director, he did what he did best. Played stupid. Why am I here?

You and your team will take over this case. His AD fiddled with a cigarette in his fingers.

You smoking again? Derek asked.

No.

Why couldn’t I bring my team?

I needed you to hear about this first. Assistant Director Fretz nodded towards Dr. Chelsea. Tell him about the case.

Dr. Chelsea waited before he responded, taking a moment to gather his thoughts. Ten years ago, four women were murdered. The one connection we could establish was each of the victims were either days or weeks away from getting married. The doctor cleared his throat. Dr. Callahan and myself worked on this case with Special Agent McDougal. Four months and we couldn’t come up with a suspect.

The guy was never caught? Derek’s gaze fell around the room. Landing on each man.

That’s correct, Fretz said.

Maybe this is a copycat killing. Derek adjusted his stance.

Dr. Callahan shook his head. No way. There were three things we never released to the news. One, the women were all dressed in a nighty. similar to what our victim is wearing. Two, each woman had her throat slit and a white ribbon tied around the wound, and three, we never mentioned that. The doctor pointed to the young woman. We never let out that each victim had a music box in her hand.

Derek kneeled next to the girl and studied the design on the box. Did the other murders have the entrails in this same design? he asked, stepping back.

The AD handed him a folder. That is the only difference. The earlier women were not gutted like this. All the photos from those cases are in here. I need you and your team to find this killer. Last time, he killed four women. Then stopped for ten years. I don’t know if he plans to kill four or double that. But he needs to be stopped.

Derek took the folder but didn’t look through it. Who else will work this case? Anyone else from the FBI? he asked his AD.

Just you and your team. I need you to go over the original case and find the link between all these women. That is how you will stop this killer. Assistant Director Fretz pursed his lips. I called the captain of the PD department. The men who are here know if they breathe a word of this, I will deal with them.

He paced. This can’t get out at all. No mention of this case or the first four murders. I need this to be a generic murder for as long as possible. Let’s keep it to—at this time we believed the victim knew her attacker. Do not, under any circumstances, say anything to the press. I will handle all releases.

I will need to do this my way. Derek raised an eyebrow at his director.

No problem, he said. I will get you the complete case file later. That folder just has the photos.

Derek squinted at the ME and Dr. Chelsea. I need to interview both of you. I would prefer you to come to my office so my entire team can be in on the interview. This way, they hear the information directly from you. Any problem with that?

Not at all. Dr. Callahan looked at his watch. I can be at your office this morning.

I can be there whenever, Dr. Chelsea said.

Derek glanced around the room. The clock on the wall said 6 a.m. How about 9:30?

I can be there. Dr. Callahan bagged the music box.

I need pictures of that. From all sides. I also want photos of the crime scene. From every angle. Derek stood still for a few moments.

His AD headed for the door. I want updates as you have them. Do not give updates to anyone but me. AD Fretz waved as he left the house.

Derek frowned. Who found her?

Her sister. She was supposed to meet her at their parent’s house at 5 a.m. When she didn’t show up, she came here. Dr. Callahan pointed to the other side of the house. She’s that way in the kitchen. Waiting for someone to come get her. She can’t drive in her present state.

Derek nodded at them. I need to ask her a few questions, then I’ll head to my office. See you both later this morning.

Dr. Chelsea chased after him. Before he spoke, he peered over his shoulder, making sure Dr. Callahan wasn’t paying attention to them. I need to know how you knew about this.

I didn’t know about this.

"The day of the CT scan. You had a dream about this. This girl. You described her. Is this the girl