THE TERROR ZONE

CHAPTER SIX

On my way to work, I stopped at the police department.

“Good morning, George. How are you feeling today?”

“Why are you calling me George again? My names is Alex”

“Yes, you told me that last night. I thought maybe you would have a different attitude after a night in the pokey.”

“Do I know you?” asked Alex.

“Of course, you do. I’m Dr. Skyler your psychiatrist. You came to me for help. Now do you remember me?”

“No, I’ve seen you before, but I don’t remember where.”

“I guess you won’t be showing up for our meeting this morning then. I’ve got to take care of some things, and then I’ll be back to see you. We need to talk, but I need to finish seeing my patients this morning. See you later, George.”

“Alex ma’am.”

“Yeah, Alex is it? Right, see you later Alex.”

While driving back to my office, I turned on my tape recorder.

“George Chatterly suffers from extreme dissociative identity disorder or multiple personalities and is possibly schizophrenic as well. “I haven’t ever had such an interesting case. I have to admit, it’s intriguing.

“Good morning Kerry. Who do we have on the roster for this morning?”

“Well, George is in the waiting room right now. Did you forget he was coming?”

“George who, Kerry?” I asked.

“Well that answers that question,” Kerry said, confused. You don’t remember your new patient from yesterday?”

“But that can’t be! He was jailed last night. I was there. I just came from the station where he’s being held.”

I walked into the waiting room, and George was sitting there.

“Good morning, Doc. How are you? Are you ready for me?”

“Could you wait here for just a few more minutes, George? I need to make a phone call before we get started.”

“Okay,” said George. “Are you okay Doctor, you look a little piqued?”

“Thanks for asking, but I’m all right. I’ll be with you in a moment.”

“Kerry, please contact the Okeechobee Police Department and hand me the phone,” I pleaded.

“Hello, this is Dr. Skyler. I’d like to speak to Officer Beck please.”

“Hold on, Dr. Skyler. I’ll patch you through.”

“Yes, Dr. Skyler, Officer Beck here. What can I do for you?”

“Could you check to see if Alex Finch is in his cell?

“Of course, he is, Doctor,” said Officer Beck.

“Please, Officer, just check for me.”

I waited for a few minutes, and Officer Beck came back to the phone, “Yes, he’s still sitting there. What’s going on, Doctor?”

“Of course, they’re twins,” I said. “I need a copy of his DNA, fingerprints, and a recent picture, Officer. It’s a matter of emergency,” I ordered.

I walked back to my office with my head spinning.

“Hello, George. Sorry to keep you waiting, but we’ve had some recent developments regarding the kidnapped children.”

“What’s up, Doc?” asked George. He started to laugh and then mumbled, “I’ve always wanted to say that.”

“It appears you have a twin brother. I met him last night when we investigated the docks that you told me about yesterday. He’s been arrested and is sitting in jail as we speak.”

“You’re kidding. I have a twin brother. Why was he arrested?”

“The boat you told me about, Five Musketeers, was his. He tried to hurt Paul and me when we were rescuing the children.”

“You mean the dreams I was having were him? So he’s my identical twin?”

“Yes. I couldn’t tell you two apart.”

“Can I see him? I mean, can I visit him?”

“I don’t see why not. But you had better be ready to realize that he’s a kidnapper and a killer. I don’t want you going in with false hopes,” I said.

“Can we go now, Doc?”

“George, I realize you’re curious and even excited about this news, but I have to talk to you seriously about the children.”

“What is it Doc?”

“There are several children still missing. Have you had any other dreams? I have to be honest with you, my daughter Lindsey is missing as well, so I do have a personal side to all this. If that upsets you in any way, or you think it’s to much of a conflict of interest, I’ll recommend another psychiatrist for you.”

“I told you I’d only talk to you, Doc.”

“Why, George? Why am I so special?”

“I don’t know. I just had a feeling about you when I finally made up my mind to seek help.”

“George,” I said, staring him in the face, with a stern look.

“Okay, Doc, I saw you in my dream. I don’t know why, but I recognized you and knew you were a good person.”

“May I hypnotize you again, George? I need desperately to find my daughter. Please?” I pleaded.

“Okay, Doc, but wouldn’t it be easier just to ask my brother where your daughter is?”

“I don’t think he’d tell me. Besides, he’s not my patient. If I don’t find her soon, she may not live to see me again. Okay, George, just like before keep your eye on the metronome. Your eyelids are getting heavy, you are lying on a warm sandy beach, soaking up the rays. You are getting sleepier. You can’t hold your eyes open, and now you’re fast asleep. Tell me George what do you see?”

“I’m playing with a little girl. Only this time she wants to be the doctor, and I’m to play the patient.”

“Move on to when you were in your teens. Can you remember anything back then George?”

“I’m running. I was good in sports. My teacher wanted me to sign up for track. The cops are chasing someone with my face. I, or he is ducking down to hide while they pass me by.”

“Okay, now please move on. Do you remember anything about a little girl with dimples? Can you see her, George?”

“No. I can’t see any little girls, but I see some women. One is crying. They are locked up in an old shaft of some kind. There are three women. One has long black hair and brown eyes. She’s wearing a man’s pajamas. Another one has medium-length black hair, green eyes, and she’s playing a piano. The third one has brown hair and blue eyes. She’s sitting in a corner with her legs crossed Indian style. Oh my god, I feel their terror. They are so frightened. There’s someone coming that they are terrified of. The door is opening.

He’s screaming at them, “Didn’t I tell you to play the piano? Why did you stop? Start playing or I’ll make you disappear like Jessica.” Now they are all crying. They’re cold and hungry. They’ve been there a long time. There’s old food wrappers and dirty plastic silverware everywhere.”

“Where are they, George? Can you see anything that tells where they are? A street sign, the name of a building, anything to help us find them?”

“There’s an old dumb waiter in an old laundry shaft. It’s an old resort of some kind. Oh no,” said George. “Oh no, not again. It’s me. It’s me holding those women hostage. I’m walking out to a car. It’s a station wagon, a Chevy. Wait, the license number, It’s 3XDR227. I’m driving. I just passed a sign that read Miami 17 miles. I believe I’m headed east out of a forest and through a dried-out orange grove.”

“I’m going to bring you out now, George. When I say three, you will wake feeling rested and remember only what we talked about. And three.”

“Are you feeling okay, George?”

“I feel great. Can we go see my brother now?”

“Okay. I’ll drive.” I said.

When we arrived at the police department, George couldn’t walk fast enough to meet his brother.

“George, slow down, I can’t keep up with you.”

“Sorry, Doc, I’m a little excited. Maybe I can learn something about my past.”

“Remember what I told you, George, you may be disappointed when you see him. He may not even want to meet you”

“I know you are trying to protect me Doc, but I didn’t even know I had a brother until about an hour ago, so I certainly can’t expect too much. I’m more excited about the fact that I didn’t have anything to do with all those horrific atrocities.”

“Officer Grodin, we are here to visit with Alex Finch,” I said.

“Could you please sign in first,” said Officer Grodin.

“Brother,” said George as we peered through the bars.

“Alex turned around and his face turned white as a sheet. “My god, I’m looking in a mirror. I guess there is no denying that you are my brother,” said Alex, “but why am I here? Who put those children on my boat brother?”

“Doctor Skyler, why am I here? I haven’t done anything. I’m innocent. You people were trespassing when you came onto my boat. I had nothing to do with those children in my fish hold. I have no idea how they got there.”

“My name is George, brother. I have dreamed of you ever since I was born. I didn’t know it was you, but now I understand.”

Alex put out his hand. “I am Alex, George. I’ve felt you forever as well.”

They shook hands, and then just stood there staring at each other.

“Alex, this is my doctor. She has been helping me cope with my problems. Perhaps she could help you too. She’s very good.”

“Dr. Skyler, could you help me? Would you please be my psychiatrist?” asked Alex.

“If you really want me to be your doctor, I’ll take on the responsibility, but I think you need to hire a lawyer first.”

“Can you recommend someone then?” asked Alex.

“I don’t know any lawyers, but I’m sure the state will appoint one to you, or you could ask some of your fellow inmates who they use. I’m sorry I can’t help you with this, but I don’t get out much except to go to my office and home. Can I ask you a personal question, Alex?”

“Sure Doc. Spit it out!”

“Please tell me the truth, Alex. Where are the rest of the missing children?”

“I don’t know anything about missing children. I’m a fisherman, never been married to anything but the sea and have barely enough money to feed myself, much less some kids. I wish I could answer your question, but I just can’t. I live by myself because everyone thinks I’m weird. They point fingers at me and call me names.”

Alex held out his hands. “What are you doing, Alex?” I asked, backing up a little.

“Please, Dr. Skyler put your hands on mine. Don’t be afraid. Just do as I ask, and I’ll show you why I choose not to fraternize with humans.”

I reluctantly set my hand on top of Alex’s, and he closed his eyes. Then he started to flinch and jerk. I tried to pull away but then changed my mind.

“Are you okay, Alex?” I asked.

“Your daughter, Lindsey is it? She’s one of the missing children, isn’t she?”

“How do you know that? How could you possibly know that unless you had something to do with her disappearance? What have you done with my daughter? Where is she, please? Is she all right?”

“I didn’t have anything to do with the disappearance of your daughter. I sometimes can see things. That’s all. I think I knew that I had an identical twin brother as well. But I swear I didn’t take your daughter. I may be a freak, but I didn’t take any children. You have to believe me.”

“Why do I have to believe you? I don’t know you from Adam. I find you in possession of several missing children a day ago, you knock out my boyfriend and try to hurt me, and now you ask me to believe you.”

“Dr. Skyler,” said George, “calm down please. Can’t you see you’re scaring him? Look at him. He doesn’t know a thing, look at his face.”

I calmed myself and looked Alex in the eyes. “I’m sorry Alex, please forgive me for my outburst. I’m just overwrought with all that’s happened. I never should have struck out at you like that.”

“I understand, Doctor. I would probably feel the same way if it was my child lost out in this miserable place we call a world. Will you be my doctor, please?

“Okay. I’ll put you on my schedule. I will start tomorrow. Thank you, Alex.”

“For what Doc?”

“For being so understanding. I’ll see you tomorrow. I have other patients to take care of, so we’ve got to go for now.”

“Good-bye, brother Alex,” said George, as they shook hands like they had known each other forever.

When we left the cell corridor, I told Officer Beck where to look for the three women.

“No, I don’t have an address. I’m sorry, but that’s all the information I have. May George and I follow you?”

“Yes,” said Officer Beck, as he phoned his captain and relayed the information to him. “Yes sir, that is all the information I have,” said Officer Beck over the phone.

Captain Freeze ordered six cars to go out, Miami way and search for the women. “Let’s go, men.”

“Kerry, Susan here. Please clear my schedule for today. I will call you later when I’ll be back.”

We arrived on the east end of Miami where a sign read Miami 17 Miles. Officer Beck ordered four men to start there, and move slowly up and that he and the rest of the officers would drive seventeen miles in the opposite direction and start their search. They were to meet in the middle unless they found something, then they would radio each other and join forces.

“Officer Beck, if you don’t mind, George and I are going to search the middle. We may be able to help find them quicker if George recognizes anything from his visions.”

We walked for a while...

“Here,” said George. “Stop here.”

“Do you recognize something George?”

“No, I just have a feeling that this is the place.”

We parked the car on the side of the road and walked into the forest.

“This is scary, George,” I said. “It’s so dark in here.”

“Look there! Do you see that old orange grove?” asked George.

“Yeah,” I said, as I dialed the phone to reach Officer Beck. “Officer this is Dr. Skyler. We found the abandoned old orange grove. If you come back the same way you came, you’ll see my car on the side of the road.”

“George, wait for me. Are you crazy? Don’t leave me here alone like that, this place is creepy!”

“Sorry,” said George. “I wasn’t thinking.”

“Up ahead there is an old driveway, I said. It must lead to the resort.”

“Maybe you should stay here, Doc. I don’t want you getting hurt.”

“No Way! I’m not leaving your side. Besides, the cops are on their way, so we’ll have backup, and we aren’t going to run into Alex because he’s in jail!”

“Okay, just stay close to me,” said George.

It wasn’t a resort. It was an old abandoned hotel. From the looks of it, it had been sitting unused for several decades.

“Look at the detail in this wood, George. It’s beautiful. Someone at one time put a lot of work into this old place.”

“We need to find an old dumb waiter. What period do you suppose it was when they used dumbwaiters?” asked George.

“I don’t know. I’m not a history buff. Although it would definitely come in handy right about now. Shh. Did you hear that?” I asked.

“Did you hear something?” whispered George.

“I thought I did. That’s why I asked you if you heard something!”

“No. I didn’t hear anything,” said George.

“Listen,” I whispered.

“What? Oh, that,” said George.

“What is it?” I asked.

“I don’t know,” answered George. “Let’s just keep looking for the dumb waiter.”

“This used to be a kitchen,” I said.

“Ya think,” George said, as he stared at an old log oven with pots and pans stacked on it.

“There. Over there, George pointed. Isn’t that a dumbwaiter?”

I walked over and fiddled with the rope. I pushed a button, and the dumb waiter, making an awful whining noise, moved up to the kitchen opening.

“Oh, George, this is so eerie. Did you hear that horrible noise this thing makes. Let’s hurry and get this over with. I don’t want to be here.”

“Me either, Doc, but one of us is going to have to get into that little box and ride it down to check the laundry room. Are you game?”

“Okay, I’ll go, but warn me if you see or hear anything. I’ll be up in a jiffy!”

I uneasily entered the dumb waiter, with little room to spare, and George pushed the button for me to descend. I tried to hold my breath most of the way because it was dusty and smelled of mildew. It seemed like I’d been in the box for twenty minutes, but in reality, it was only five. Suddenly, the box stopped moving, in midair!

“George,” I whispered. “What’s up, buddy? Why did the box stop?”

“George!” I said a little louder, and a little more panicky!”

“Shh,” said George, I thought I heard something.”

The dumb waiter started to move downward again. “Whew,” I said, as I wiped the sweat off my brow and tried to breathe normally.

When I reached the bottom, the dumb waiter actually dumped me out into the laundry room. There were huge tubs on one side of the wall with old antique washers that still had the wringer system of wringing out the clothes. The machines were rusted as were the tubs, and the rubber wringers were masticated and almost useless. Oddly the tubs had clean water in them.

I left the room and closed the door behind me. I slowly turned the handle of the next door. I felt like I was playing an uncanny game of Let’s Make a Deal. I was afraid of what I might find behind door number 2!

I’d better open it, I thought, or I’ll never forgive myself, I thought. I talked myself into opening the door. I twisted the knob. The knobs were all made of glass, and the doors had intricate art cutouts. They were beautiful, but seriously dusty.

As I peeked into the second room, I didn’t see anything unusual, except for an old messy area. There was a cot that looked like it had been used recently, with a woman, lying on it. I walked over and tried to wake her; but she was cold and I'm afraid not in this world any more. I shivered and moved on.

“ What’s behind door number 3?” I asked myself, as I approached door number 3, I could hear muffled music!

I started to reach for the door handle and realized my hands were shaking. I took a deep breath in and tried to control my bodily movements! “Please don’t let me find any more dead people,” I whispered. I unlocked three sliding locks and opened the door.

“Dear God,” I said, as I stood in front of three women all near death. The one playing the piano was a little livelier than the others, but they all looked malnourished, and their hair hadn’t been combed in some time, and they were filthy.

“Are you Susan?” asked, the lady with the medium-length black hair.

“I’m here to help you. How did you know my name?” I said.

“The one who put us here said you’d be coming.”

“Finally, you’ve come. We have been waiting a long time. Hurry, before you get caught. We are not sure what he’ll do if he catches you,” said the long-haired woman at the piano.

“Let’s go,” I said. “We can talk later when we’re safe. I think if we stuff ourselves in, two people can fit in the box at a time. You two, go first,” I said as I pointed to two of the women.

They scrunched themselves into the box and hugged each other tight. I pushed the button, and they started their ascent.

“What’s your name?” I asked the piano player.

“I’m Sonja Basker. I’m sorry, I’m not sure how long we’ve been down here. We were told to play the piano and wait for you, our savior.”

“I don’t know why or how he knew I would come for you. What does he look like? What’s his name?” I asked Sonja.

“He never told us his name. He is about thirty years old. He has light brown hair and hazel eyes and stands about six-feet-four inches tall. He’s in very good shape for an older man, and he dresses nicely.”

Suddenly, we heard yelling. “That sounds like Cheryl,” said Sonja.

“The box is coming down,” I said. “Come on we have to hurry.”

We stuffed ourselves into the box, and on the way up, one of the belts started to slip. “Oh no! Please, God, said Sonja, help us make it out of here.”

“Don’t move, we’re almost there,” I said.

We just barely reached the opening, and one of the belts started spewing black smoke and then snapped. I reached out to grab hold of the ledge. “Take hold of my hand and hold on tight. If the box doesn’t hold, I’ll pull you up.” Just then, the other belt tore, and the box started to fall.

“I’m slipping, Susan,” cried Sonja. “I’m going to fall!

As she slipped free of my hand, she grabbed onto my belt. “Hold on, honey, I yelled. I’m going to climb over the edge.”

“I’m still slipping!” Sonja screamed. “I don’t think I can hold on any longer. I feel myself slipping some more.” She was now gripping my ankle. “Please, hurry,” yelled Sonja.

While I tried to climb over the edge, someone held out a hand to help me. I grabbed George’s hand and pulled myself up. When my feet neared the opening, Sonja grabbed the ledge. I pulled myself to safety and then grabbed Sonja and helped pull her the rest of the way over the ledge.

“Officer Beck? Where’s George?”

“I sent him and the women out to the road to stay with some of the officers. Is anybody else down there?”

“There is a dead woman’s body in one of the rooms off the laundry room. She’s been there a while. Prepare to be grossed out! Come on, Sonja, let’s head out to the street.”

As we hiked through the orange grove, a few of the officers met us halfway and led us out. When we came out of the orchard we walked up to the street.

A blood-curdling scream came from Sonja’s lungs, and the next thing I knew, she was running in the opposite direction. Officer Stein chased after her and held her so she couldn’t go any farther.

“What’s the matter, Sonja?” I asked, wrapping my arms around her and trying to calm her.

“It’s him. He’s here. Run for your lives!” she yelled, as she shook and stuttered and tried to break free of my hold.

“Where is he?” I asked?

“Right there, can you see him? He’s right there,” she whispered and pointed to George.

“No, Sonja, that’s George. He’s the man who told us where to find you.”

“Of course, he knew where to find us. He put us there!” she screamed.

“Trust me, Sonja, that’s not him. He has a twin brother named Alex. He’s in jail as we speak. Please stop pulling away from me. We won’t hurt you.”

She looked into my eyes and then went limp as I caught her in my arms.

“Sonja,” I said, as my knees started to buckle. “Someone, please help me.”

Officer Stein took hold of Sonja ad held her in his arms. He picked her up and carried her to a cop car and laid her down in the back seat.

Officer Beck joined us out on the street. He ordered two cars to stay and block off the area and contacted the proper authorities. George and I drove back to my office and said our good-byes. I decided to call Kerry when I got home, since she’d already left for the evening.

As I drove home, I wept for those poor women and my baby girl. She lost her mother and only god knows what has happened to her. When I drove into my driveway, Paul’s car was parked on the side.

“Gees, Susan, where have you been? I’ve been worried sick! I couldn’t even get hold of Kerry. Why didn’t you call me?” asked Paul.

“I’m sorry, Paul, I just didn’t think about it in between saving three women’s lives from a monster and almost ending up dead myself. Next time, I’ll be sure and check in, darling!”

“I guess I should have worded that better. I’m sorry, Sky. Are you all right?”

“I know you were worried. I’m sorry you had to go through that. I love you, Paul,” I said, as I kissed him hard on the lips. “But I’m really tired of people asking me if I’m all right.”

“Okay, maybe I should head home. It is obvious this was a mistake to come over tonight. I’ll see you tomorrow, I guess,” said Paul.

“Paul, please stay. I’ll try not to be such an awful bitch. Forgive me, please, I am just distraught and exhausted?”

“I’ll start the hot tub and pour some wine. You go in and sit down and relax for a minute. I’ll be right in to give you a back and neck rub. After that, I can’t promise what’s going to happen,” said Paul.

“Oh, baby, I don’t want you to tiptoe around me. I’ll be okay now.”

“Susan, go sit down. I want to do this. Just enjoy it and say thank you, honey.”

While we watched the president give his address to the nation, the lights went out.

“Did you forget to pay the electric bill, baby?” asked Paul.

“Very funny. I’ll get the flashlight if you’ll check the electric box.” I said.

“It’s a deal. Just tell me where it is,” said Paul.

“What do you mean? I don’t know where it is. I just live here.”

“Okay, give me the flashlight,” said Paul.

“I’ll light some candles,” I said.

I heard a loud thump. “Paul,” I yelled. “Paul is that you?” I knew I should have gone with him.” I opened the drawer and pulled out a handful of candles, set them on the counter, and lit one. I walked in the direction that the noise came from. “Paul,” I yelled, one more time. “Where are you? Quit playing games, honey.”

I thought I heard something behind me. I turned around and saw a figure or shadow in the dark. I screamed and ran back into the kitchen. While running, the wind blew out my candle. I reached for another, lit it, and several fell to the floor. “Crap,” I whispered. The dark figure grabbed for me, and I lost my footing and started to fall backward. The candle fell out of my hand and landed on the floor. The stranger had his arms around my neck. I reached for the frying pan Paul had gotten out for dinner. I hit the stranger over the head with it and he fell to his knees. In the meantime, the candles had caught on fire and were blazing, and they lit the stranger on fire. He ran out of the house screaming. I grabbed a handful of towels and put the fire out, but not before burning my hands.

“Paul, I screamed. Honey where are you? Paul, answer me,” I said, running around the house looking for him. I went out to the garage and found him lying on the garage floor. “Wake up, Paul,” I said, shaking him.

“Susan, stop shaking me. You’re giving me a headache!”

“No, the man that hit you on the head a few minutes ago, gave you the headache. What happened, baby?”

Well, Susan, it was dark, I heard footsteps, and then it got darker!” explained Paul.

“Sweetheart, you’re bleeding. I think you need to go to the hospital and you might need stitches.”

“How do you know that? It’s dark out here,” mumbled Paul.

“Here, let me help you up,” I said, as I pulled him by his arm. Oh baby, You’re wobbling. Are you going to be all right?”

“Yeah, I just need to sit down.”

“Wait until we get to the car sweetie,” I said.

Driving Paul to the hospital, I realized time had gotten away from me. I called the police department and told them what happened. I helped Paul into the hospital, and when they saw my hands, Dr. David Shepard put salve on them, bandaged them and prescribed a painkiller. Paul ended up with seven stitches and a concussion.

“I recommend he spend the night here. He may feel some dizziness, nausea and irritability or uneasiness. Depending on how bad the blow was, it could last from twenty-four hours to many years.”

“Thank you, Dr. David,” I said, as I wiped the tears. I didn’t want Paul to see me like this again, so I tried to freshen up.

“How are you feeling, baby?” I asked.

“Like a train hit me.”

“Dr. David wants to keep you overnight so they can observe you and check your stitches and what not. I need to go put a statement in to the police station, and then I have to tend to my clients. I’ll try to come back to check on you this afternoon. Do you want me to bring you anything while I’m out?”

“I think you should take my keys and stay at my place. I don’t know if your place is safe. We don’t really know who attacked us or what they wanted,” pleaded Paul.

“Okay. Where are your keys?” I asked.

“In the back pocket of my jeans. Also, honey, would you please call in to work for me?”

“Of course, I will. Don’t worry about a thing. I’ll see you later,” I said, kissing him good-bye.

I had to get back to my office. I also needed to see Alex at the police station.

“Good morning, Kerry,” I said.

“Good morning, Susan. What happened to you? You look exhausted.”

“It’s a long story. Remind me to tell you sometime, but right now I need to know who is on the schedule for today, and I also have to see Alex in jail.”

“Actually, you only have one person scheduled for this afternoon, and George is scheduled for this morning at nine,” Said Kerry.

“I’m going over to talk with Alex. If I’m a few minutes late, ask George to be patient, and I’ll see him as soon as I get back.”

I arrived at the station and quickly headed for Officer Beck’s office.

“Officer Beck, I said, how are you today?

“I’m fine, Dr. Skyler. Are you here to see Alex?”

“Yes,” I said, signing in. “I need to tell you that there was a prowler at my house last night. He invaded my home, shut out the lights, attacked Paul, and Paul is in the hospital with a concussion. He tried to hurt me as well, but I burnt him with an accidental fire from some candles that I dropped.”

“Geez, what are you in the middle of?" asked Officer Beck.

“I don’t know how to answer that. I just want to find my daughter."

“If you could wait a minute, Dr. Skyler, I’ll take him to a secure room.”

“Yes, thank you, Officer.”

“Good morning, Dr. Skyler,” said Alex.

“Mr. Finch,” I said, trying to keep this as professional as possible. “How are you this morning?”

“I’d be a whole lot better if you’d ask them to take these cuffs off,” Alex said as he lifted his hands to show me.

“I’m sorry, I can’t do that. After all, you were arrested for kidnapping, and I believe you already had felony charges added to that by taking several women hostage.”

“I didn’t do those things. I told you, I’m innocent of all those charges. I am a poor old fisherman that has never done anything remotely close to being unlawful. Except for that one tie when I was in college and my buddies talked me into smoking pot with them, but I blame that on peer pressure.”

“You went to college? Where?

“What? Are you surprised that someone like me could have attended college? Shame on you, Dr. Skyler. I believe you’ve already condemned me of these crimes before I’ve been proven guilty.”

“That’s not exactly correct, Mr. Finch. You told me you were a fisherman most of your life, and I assumed then, silly me, that you were.”

“Okay then, let’s start over, shall we? Hello, Dr. Skyler. My name is Alex Finch. I went to college to be a marine biologist, but when I couldn’t hide the fact that I had an unusual problem facing reality, they kicked me out. I lost my way for a while after that, and I guess you could say I was feeling sorry for myself. I moped around for sometime going from job to job and then met an old fisherman who sold me his boat for a song. So, I grabbed at the chance. I thanked my lucky stars I had because it turned out I wasn’t really a people person, but a great fisherman. There, does that answer some of your questions?”

“I’m sorry about your affliction, Alex, but it seems to me you have been given a gift. Why didn’t you pursue using your gift to help people? What college did you attend?” I asked.

“The Cooperative Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Studies at the University of Miami. I was there for about a year and a half. What college did you attend, Doctor Skyler?”

“I’m doing the questioning here, Mr. Finch, but that’s an innocent enough question, so I’ll answer it. I attended Meredith College in Raleigh, North Carolina. It was a private institute for women. That’ll be all the questioning for you today, Mr. Finch. Now it's my turn.”

“Can you tell me what age you were when you realized you were gifted?” I asked.

“I don’t remember even being touched enough when I was young to notice it. But when I started dating girls, I could tell what they were thinking, once I got close enough to them. I would accidentally read them, and then I couldn’t keep quiet about it.”

“Do you remember your childhood? I mean, your mother and father, what were they like? Can you remember any good times when you were a child?”

“I remember playing with a little girl when I was very small. We would play a game called doctor. She would be the doctor and I would usually have to be the patient. Otherwise, she wouldn’t play! I don’t remember my mother. Some people that my mother knew took me in. They said my mother and father died in an automobile accident. My new mother insisted we not talk about it, because she thought it would upset me. Whenever my father said anything relating to my real parents, my mother would start to cry and argue with him. "

“What were their names?”

“Laura and Johnathan Finch.”

“Do you keep in touch with them?”

“Ha ha,” laughed Alex. “I can’t help you there either. It looks like you’re coming up with all kinds of dead ends, Doc. I am a hopeless case.”

“What do you mean?” I asked.

“My parents died in our home when I was eighteen. I inherited money for college and a small amount to get me through a few years, but then the money ran out.”

“Did they tell you how they died?”

“They never found out what really happened.”

“Alex, I have to ask you this question. If I don’t, I wouldn’t be doing my job, so please don’t get offended.”

Alex nodded.

“Did you kidnap those children that were on your boat? Did you lock those women up in that old motel? Now remember, you asked me to be your doctor so if you don’t tell me the truth, I can’t help you, and I’ll be wasting your time and mine.”

“No, I did not do those horrible things. I may have felt them, but I didn’t actually do them. I thought if I ran away and didn’t associate with anyone that I wouldn’t have these visions. But that’s not how my ‘gift’ as you call it, works,” he said, sarcastically. “I can’t run from it, and I can’t give it away. It’s just there, like it or not! Can you help me, Doc?”

“I’m not sure how you want me to help you. I can’t stop you from having the visions. Just what is it you want me to help you with?”

“I don’t know either. All my life I’ve felt different, possessed, I don’t know, lost. Now I have a doctor of psychiatry right here in front of me, and I guess I figured you could fix me.”

“I wish I could fix everything unfortunate that happens to people in this world, but I’ve got to live with what I was born with too. As for helping you, I can only hold your hand and walk with you until you figure out what you need yourself. I can’t just say presto and make everything better. You, on the other hand, have been given something other people only dream or wish for.”

“I guess the way you put it, you’re right, Dr. Skyler. I have never ever been able to speak to anyone this long without feeling something or being so tense that my stomach hurts. Thank you, Doctor, for just caring enough to talk with me without looking at me like I’m the devil, incarnate!”

“Okay, you’ve touched my heart in just this small time we have had together, Alex. Do you still want me to be your doctor, because I am pretty expensive just to point out what appears to be obvious.”

“That right there proves that you are good at what you do, Doc.”

We both laughed. Officer Beck walked in and announced that Alex’s lawyer was waiting outside to see him.

“I’d better go, Alex. You don’t want to put off talking with your attorney, or you’ll never get out of here. I’ve got an appointment with George in a few minutes anyway.”

As I pushed the door open, I felt some pain. I looked at my hands and then back at Alex.

“Alex, one more thing? Why haven’t you asked me what happened to my hands?”

“I already know Doc.”

“I thought you could only see if you touched someone?”

“Sometimes it just happens.”

“Good-bye, Alex.”

“See ya, Doc.”

Back at my office…

“Hi Kerry. Is George here yet?

“No. But you are a little early.”

“Send him in when he arrives. I’m going to go over some of my notes and fill out this questionnaire I was given from the police department. Someone broke into my house last night and assaulted me and hit Paul over the head. Paul is in the hospital with stitches and a concussion.”

“Are you all right?” asked Kerry.

“As well as can be expected. I just have so much going on and so little time for anything. I’m getting so far behind and my daughter is still missing.”

“Okay, so you’re not all right. Where does a psychiatrist go when they need to talk to someone?”

That put a smile on my face. “Thank you for asking. I just got a whole lot off my chest talking to you. Don’t worry, kiddo, I’ll be fine.”

I stepped into my office, turned on some soothing music and started to fill out the paperwork from the station. I don’t know when it happened, but I fell asleep at my desk. I woke up with a start when Kerry came in and said she was going to retire for the day.

“I must have fallen asleep,” I said. “George never showed up, Kerry?”

“No show, no call. “I came in once to check on you, but you were sawing logs so I tiptoed out. If it’s okay with you, I’ll go home now.”

“Sure. It’s way over time. I’ll see you tomorrow, Kerry, and thanks again.”

I gathered my belongings and was heading out when I heard noise. “Kerry is that you?” I asked. No one answered. Then I heard a door shut softly. I hurried to the door and fumbled for my keys. When I found them, I proceeded to lock the door, but when I stuck the keys in the lock, I saw someone big with a ski mask coming toward me. I finally, in between the shaking, locked the door and as I pulled the key out of the lock, he hit the door with his body. I ran toward my car. I looked back and could see the stranger far away, but gaining on me. I unlocked my car door and fell into the front seat. I locked the doors and tried to start my engine. It didn’t start. He hit the driver’s side window with a heavy blow. The window shattered, and I screamed and tried the engine again. I stepped on the gas with all my might. I slammed into the car behind me. I put the car in drive just as he jumped in front of me. I hit him, he went down and I took off as fast I could. I felt my heart beating so fast I could hardly breathe. Too much stress, I told myself and I tried to gather myself before I went in to visit Paul.

“Hello, sweetheart. Are you feeling better? I’ve missed you.”

“It hasn’t even been a day Sky. What would you do if I wasn’t around at all?” he grinned.

I was too anxious to laugh.

“What’s wrong, honey, you are acting all edgy and panicky.

“I guess I’m just tired, baby.” I said, and I gave him a kiss.

“Would you ask the doctor if I can go home now? I’m feeling fine, and lying here is making me crazy. Please, sweetheart?”

“Nurse, excuse me. Could you tell me where I might find Dr. David?”

“You had better hurry, dear, if you want to catch him, he’s heading for the parking lot.”

“Thank you, Nurse.” I ran down the hall to catch the elevator but it was taking to long, so I used the stairs. I heard footsteps. “Who’s there? I know you’re there, show yourself.” I screamed. “What do you want from me?” No one answered so I kept running to the parking structure.

“Dr. David, I screamed.”

“Dr. Skyler, what’s wrong? Your face is all white, you’re out of breath and you are sweating profusely.”

“It’s silly, but I thought someone was chasing me.’ I said, feeling seriously embarrassed.

“How are your hands feeling?” asked Dr. David “Dr. Skyler?”

“Huh? What was that, Dr. David,” I asked, as I stared out into the garage looking for my stalker.

“I said, how are your hands?”

“Oh, there fine. I barely even notice them,” I said, distracted.

“Are you sure you are all right? Maybe you need to get some sleep. You’re showing all the signs of someone in serious distress.”

“I think I’m in serious trouble. My boyfriend and I were attacked last night, and someone with a ski mask chased me out of my office today. I thought I ran him over, and now I thought someone was chasing me in the stairwell, and to top it all off, my appointment this afternoon, didn’t show up, and he’s the only one who can find my little girl.”

“What are you doing, Dr. David?” I asked.

“I’m writing you a prescription. You need help!”

“Get in the car, Dr. Skyler, and I’ll take you to the police department.”

“Are you sure, Dr. David? I can drive myself, really.”

“I’m sure, get in,” he asserted.

As we rode to the police station, Dr. David kept looking in his rear-view mirror.

“What are you looking for, Doctor?” I asked.

“Well, I’m just being cautious. Your story sounded quite real to me, and I think it’s a good idea to be aware of what’s going on out there!”

I started to giggle, and then he joined in. "I’m sorry, Doctor, it’s just funny to me that you, someone who will do anything to save lives, are frightened of a stalker!”

“I’m not scared, really. I know karate and I’m not afraid to use it. I just don’t want anything to happen to you. We’re here,” he said.

Dr. David walked around to the passenger side of the car and helped me out. “Wow, I said, and a gentleman too. Thank you, Doctor for dropping me off. I offered him my hand.

He looked at me inquisitively and then laughed. “Oh, you think I’m just going to drop you off here and leave you to find your own way back to your car.”

“That’s very gallant of you, Doctor, but I can call a cab.”

“No, I insist. You go take care of your business, and I’ll be waiting for you.”

“Well, okay. I don’t know how long it will be.”

He just looked at me and smiled, so I walked up to the desk and asked to speak with someone in charge. When I was done explaining to the cops what went down at the hospital, Dr. David was still waiting for me in the front office.

“Are you ready to go?” asked Dr. David.

“Yes, thank you,” I said.

As we drove back to the hospital, we talked about the things that had been happening to Paul and I since our camping trip.

“Oh gees.” I said. “Paul! When I left, I told him I’d ask you if he could go home. I was so shook up, I completely forgot.”

“I’m pretty sure he’s probably had his pills for the night. He’s probably out cold. You can come and get him in the morning. I’ll let him know when he wakes up tomorrow,” said Dr. David.

“Thanks for the ride, Doc. I owe you one.”

“Have a safe trip home, and I’ll see you in the morning.”

I drove into Paul’s driveway and parked my car. I was scared. I entered his house and locked the door behind me. Then I checked all the windows and set his security alarm. Leave it to Paul to have a security system, I thought. I took a hot bath and went straight to bed.