SHORT STORIES FRIDAYS (164)

A SINISTER CALL.

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Officer Timothy Santner sighed as he caught sight of Detective Sandra Johns who looked resplendent in her blue chiffon evening gown. The two stood near the refreshment table at the birthday party of Police Chief Justin Wilson’s ten-year-old daughter, Amanda. The backyard was festooned with colorful balloons and streamers, children laughed and played, and the aroma of grilled hot dogs and hamburgers filled the air.

“Enjoying the party?” Sandra asked, a playful smile on her face.

Timothy chuckled. “I think I’m more suited to a stakeout than a party with a dozen ten-year-olds running around.”

“Consider it a different kind of undercover operation,” Sandra teased.

As they chatted, Amanda, in her bright pink dress, excused herself and headed towards the house. The party was in full swing, and the noise of the children and music drowned out any other sounds.

Moments later, Amanda walked through the hallway towards the restroom. As she passed the guest bedroom, she noticed the door was slightly ajar. Inside, one of the guests, a man she didn’t recognize, was sweating profusely and speaking urgently into his phone.

Amanda stopped, her curiosity piqued, and listened.

“Yes, Boss, I will notify others of the change in plans,” the man said, his voice barely above a whisper. “Instead of the school, we will set the timer to 12:30 PM at Madison Shopping Mall.”

Amanda’s eyes widened. She didn’t understand everything, but she knew it sounded bad. She took a step back, but her shoe squeaked on the hardwood floor. The man glanced toward the door, causing her to quickly dart behind a large potted plant.

“The location is San Diego,” he continued, his voice now shaky. “I will make sure everything is set.”

Amanda waited until the man ended his call and left the room. She bolted back to the yard, her heart pounding in her chest. She spotted Sandra and Timothy near the punch bowl and ran to them, tugging on Sandra’s dress.

“Sandra, Tim!” she exclaimed, her voice urgent. “I heard something really bad!”

Sandra knelt down to Amanda’s level. “What is it, sweetie?”

“A man inside was talking about setting a timer at 12:30 PM at Madison Shopping Mall. He said it’s in San Diego.”

Sandra and Timothy exchanged a quick, serious glance.

“Did you recognize the man?” Timothy asked.

Amanda shook her head. “No, but he was sweating and looked really scared.”

Sandra stood up, her mind racing. “Tim, we need to find Chief Wilson and secure the mall immediately.”

Timothy nodded. “Amanda, show us where you saw this man.”

Amanda led them back to the house, but the guest bedroom was now empty. Sandra noticed the window was open and a curtain fluttered in the breeze.

“He must have slipped out,” she said, frustration in her voice. “But we have enough information to act.”

Sandra and Timothy searched for clues outside the window that was the suspect’s exit route. They approached Amanda and asked about the appearance of the mystery man after calling a sketch artist, Johnathan, of their police department.

While Amanda was describing the man she had seen, Timothy spotted a cellphone lying on the ground near where the man had been standing. He picked it up, examining the device.

“This must belong to him,” Timothy said, showing the phone to Sandra.

Sandra quickly accessed the call logs and saw the most recent outgoing call matched the timing of what Amanda had overheard.

“Let’s see where this takes us,” she said, dialing the dispatch to trace the call.

They rushed to find Chief Wilson, who was busy mingling with guests. Upon hearing their report, his expression turned grave. He quickly called for additional units to be dispatched to Madison Shopping Mall and the surrounding areas.

Sandra and Timothy grabbed their gear from the car, ready to head out. Before they left, Sandra knelt down to Amanda once more.

“You did a great job, Amanda. You might have saved a lot of people today.”

Amanda smiled, a mix of pride and worry on her face. “Be careful.”

“We will,” Sandra assured her, standing up and joining Timothy as they raced to their patrol car.

As they sped towards the mall, Timothy glanced over at Sandra. “This is a big one, Sandra. Let’s hope we get there in time.”

Sandra nodded, her jaw set with determination. “We will. And we won’t let them get away with this.”

The car roared towards San Diego, their mission clear. They had to stop the threat before it could harm anyone. Time was ticking, but they were ready to face whatever awaited them.

As they drove towards Madison Shopping Mall, Sandra’s mind raced with the snippets of conversation Amanda had overheard. The gravity of the situation weighed heavily on her. She quickly radioed the dispatch.

“This is Detective Johns. We need all available units at Madison Shopping Mall in San Diego. Possible bomb threat. ETA fifteen minutes. Over.”

The urgency in her voice was mirrored by the dispatcher’s immediate response, confirming backup and bomb squad units would meet them at the scene.

Timothy weaved through traffic with practiced ease, his focus unwavering. “If they set the timer for 12:30 PM, we don’t have much time,” he muttered.

Sandra glanced at the dashboard clock—11:45 AM. Less than an hour to prevent a catastrophe. She called the mall’s security office.

“This is Detective Sandra Johns with the police department. There’s a credible bomb threat at your location. Evacuate the premises immediately and search for any suspicious packages.”

The security officer’s voice trembled. “Y-yes, ma’am. Right away.”

Sandra ended the call and looked at Timothy. “Let’s hope they act fast.”

They arrived at the mall at 12:00 PM, the parking lot already a scene of organized chaos as people hurried out of the building, guided by security personnel. Sandra and Timothy flashed their badges and made their way inside, where a tense mall manager briefed them.

“We’re evacuating everyone as fast as we can,” the manager said. “But it’s a big place, and we haven’t found anything suspicious yet.”

Sandra nodded, her eyes scanning the bustling area. “Where’s your control center?”

The manager led them to the security office, where monitors displayed feeds from various cameras throughout the mall. Sandra pointed to the screens. “Focus on any unusual behavior or abandoned items. We have less than thirty minutes.”

Timothy grabbed a radio. “This is Officer Santner. We need all units to assist in the search for the bomb. Split into teams and cover every corner.”

The tension was palpable as officers spread out, combing the mall. Sandra and Timothy moved swiftly, checking every trash can, storage area, and hidden nook. The clock was ticking relentlessly.

At 12:15 PM, Sandra’s radio crackled. “Unit 4 here. We found an unattended backpack near the food court.”

“On our way,” Sandra responded, adrenaline surging.

They raced to the food court, where an officer stood guard over a nondescript black backpack. Sandra carefully approached, scanning it for any immediate signs of danger. “Clear the area,” she instructed, her voice steady despite her racing heart.

Timothy radioed the bomb squad. “We have a suspicious package at the food court. Need immediate assistance.”

As they waited for the bomb squad, Sandra noticed a small, blinking light on the side of the backpack. Her breath caught. “Tim, we can’t wait. We need to evacuate everyone from this part of the mall now.”

Timothy nodded and began ushering people away from the area, his voice firm and authoritative. Sandra stayed near the backpack, her mind calculating the risks. If this was the bomb, they were running out of time.

The bomb squad arrived with just ten minutes left on the clock. Dressed in protective gear, they moved swiftly, examining the backpack with precision instruments.

“Timer reads 12:30 PM,” one of the bomb technicians said. “We’ve got less than ten minutes to defuse this.”

Sandra and Timothy watched from a safe distance, their hearts pounding. The mall was nearly empty now, but the threat loomed large.

The bomb technician carefully opened the backpack, revealing a tangle of wires and a digital countdown timer. He took a deep breath, his hands steady as he began to work.

The seconds ticked by agonizingly slow. 12:25 PM. 12:26 PM. The technician’s hands moved with practiced precision, snipping one wire after another. Sandra held her breath, the tension almost unbearable.

At 12:28 PM, the technician paused, sweat trickling down his forehead. “This is it,” he said, cutting the final wire.

The timer stopped at 12:29 PM. The room erupted in relieved cheers, but Sandra’s mind was still racing.

“Good work,” she said to the bomb technician. “But we need to find the people responsible.”

As they regrouped, Timothy received a call from the dispatch. “We’ve tracked the phone call Amanda overheard. It was made from a nearby warehouse.”

Sandra’s eyes narrowed. “Let’s finish this.”

They sped to the warehouse, arriving to find it seemingly abandoned. Drawing their weapons, they moved in silently, their senses on high alert. Inside, they found a group of men huddled around a table, plans and blueprints strewn about.

“Police! Freeze!” Timothy shouted, his voice echoing in the cavernous space.

The men looked up in shock, but there was no escape. Within moments, they were in custody, their plot foiled. Sandra looked at the leader, recognizing him from Amanda’s description. “You’re under arrest for attempted terrorism and endangering lives.”

The man smirked. “You might have stopped us today, but this isn’t over.”

Sandra’s eyes were cold. “It is for you.”

Just then, a noise from the back of the warehouse caught Sandra’s attention. She gestured for Timothy to cover her as she moved towards the sound, her weapon at the ready. She pushed open a door to reveal a small office, where a figure was hastily packing a briefcase.

“Stop right there!” Sandra commanded, her voice firm.

The figure turned around, revealing the face of someone Sandra recognized all too well—Deputy Chief Marcus Riley. Sandra’s heart skipped a beat. “Riley? You’re behind this?”

Riley’s face twisted into a sneer. “You should have stayed out of this, Sandra.”

Timothy joined Sandra, his eyes widening in shock as he saw Riley. “Deputy Chief Riley? Why?”

Riley’s eyes darted around, looking for an escape. “You wouldn’t understand. The system is broken, and drastic measures are needed to fix it.”

Sandra stepped forward, her gun trained steadily on Riley. “By killing innocent people? How does that fix anything?”

Riley’s sneer faltered. “Sometimes sacrifices have to be made for the greater good. You wouldn’t understand the pressures of this job.”

Timothy shook his head. “This isn’t pressure, it’s madness.”

Riley lunged towards a drawer, but Sandra was quicker. She fired a warning shot into the wall, stopping him in his tracks. “Don’t even think about it.”

Riley raised his hands slowly, a bitter smile on his face. “You may have won this battle, but the war is far from over.”

Sandra cuffed him, her face a mask of determination. “This war ends here.”

As the suspects were taken away, Sandra and Timothy finally allowed themselves to breathe. They had thwarted a disaster and uncovered a shocking betrayal within their own ranks, thanks to a brave ten-year-old girl who listened when it mattered most.

Back at the party, Amanda waited anxiously for their return. When Sandra and Timothy finally walked through the door, Amanda ran to them, her face full of questions.

“Is everyone okay?” she asked, her voice small.

Sandra knelt down and hugged her. “Thanks to you, Amanda. You did something very brave today.”

Amanda beamed, and for a moment, the weight of the day’s events lifted. The party resumed, but the memory of what they had averted lingered, a reminder of the difference one person can make.

As the sun set and the party wound down, Sandra and Timothy stood by, watching Amanda with pride. “You know,” Timothy said, “we might have found out too late if it wasn’t for her.”

Sandra nodded, her eyes never leaving Amanda. “Heroes come in all sizes. And today, she saved us all.”

They both knew the road ahead would be difficult, with the investigation into Riley’s actions just beginning. But for now, they took solace in the fact that they had stopped a terrible tragedy, and justice would prevail.

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SHORT STORIES FRIDAYS (154)

THE SILENCE OF TRUTH : A CRIME THRILLER.

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The Silence of Truth

The serene morning at Westridge University was disrupted by a chilling find beneath the ancient oaks. Detectives Jason Whitefield and Samantha Demille arrived on the scene, where Forensic Expert Dr. Vivian Samuels was already examining the body of a young man.

“Preliminary findings suggest multiple stab wounds as the cause of death. The violence suggests a personal motive,” Dr. Samuels explained, her professional demeanor providing a stark contrast to the brutality of the scene.

“A personal motive wrapped in secrecy,” Samantha noted, observing the scene with a practiced eye.

The task of identification fell upon Dr. Millie Cartwright, the College Dean, who confirmed the victim’s identity with a heavy heart. “Michael Richardson was a brilliant student. This is a loss beyond words,” she lamented, her voice tinged with sorrow.

Michael’s best friend, Stanley Crowne, was brought in for questioning. His insights painted a picture of a young man caught in a web of academic rivalry and moral compromise.

“Michael knew he was onto something big, something dangerous,” Stanley revealed, his loyalty to his friend evident in his tense demeanor. “He feared for his life.” He added, “Oh! I just remembered that Michael had a heated argument with our psychology professor, Leonard Hastings.”

The information provided by Stanley added depth to the detectives’ understanding of the case, highlighting the risks Michael faced in pursuit of truth.

As the investigation unfolded, the detectives delved into Michael’s personal effects, discovering notes and encrypted files that hinted at a looming scandal from the victim’s home. The breakthrough came when they executed a search warrant at the home of Professor Leonard Hastings, where Michael’s laptop was found hidden.

“This could be the missing piece we’ve been searching for,” Jason said, as they poured over the files, uncovering evidence of a scandal that could tarnish the university’s reputation.

In the document discovered on Michael Richardson’s laptop, a meticulously compiled dossier revealed a complex web of academic fraud and ethical breaches orchestrated by Professor Leonard Hastings at Westridge University. The scandal, as outlined by Michael, involved several layers of deception that not only questioned the integrity of academic research but also threatened the very foundation of trust upon which the educational institution was built.

1. Data Manipulation: Michael’s findings indicated that Professor Hastings had been involved in the manipulation of data in several of his research studies, skewing results to meet his hypotheses. This manipulation not only secured Hastings’ position as a leading figure in his field but also led to significant funding and accolades based on fraudulent findings.
2. Plagiarism: Further scrutiny of Hastings’ published works revealed instances of plagiarism, where he had appropriated the work of others without credit. Michael uncovered that Hastings had systematically used the research of junior colleagues and postgraduate students, presenting it as his own in high-impact journals.
3. Coercion and Retaliation: The dossier included testimonies from former students and junior faculty members who had faced coercion to contribute to Hastings’ research under unfair terms. Those who dared to question his practices or threatened to expose him faced professional retaliation, including sabotage of their academic careers and personal vilification within the academic community.
4. Misappropriation of Funds: Hastings was also implicated in the misappropriation of research funds. Michael’s investigation revealed that Hastings had diverted funds from research grants to personal accounts, using them for expenses that had no connection to the intended research activities.
5. Exploitation of Academic Power: The document detailed how Hastings exploited his academic authority to silence critics and manipulate peer review processes. He ensured that his fraudulent research continued to be published, maintaining his status and influence in the field, while systematically discrediting anyone who attempted to question his integrity.

Michael’s document not only laid bare the extent of Hastings’ misconduct but also highlighted the systemic failures within the university that allowed such behavior to go unchecked for years. The exposure of this scandal threatened not only Hastings’ career and reputation but also posed significant legal and reputational risks to Westridge University itself. It became clear that Michael’s murder was a desperate attempt to keep these damning revelations from coming to light, underscoring the lengths to which Hastings was willing to go to protect his facade of academic excellence.

Armed with evidence from Michael’s laptop and bolstered by forensic findings, Jason and Samantha confronted Professor Hastings. The confrontation was tense, with Hastings initially denying all allegations.

“You can’t hide from the truth,” Samantha pressed, presenting the overwhelming evidence. “Your actions have consequences.”

Faced with irrefutable proof, Hastings confessed, his ambition and fear of exposure driving him to murder.

In the aftermath of Hastings’ arrest, Westridge University was forced to confront the uncomfortable truths hidden within its walls. The case of Michael Richardson served as a stark reminder of the cost of silence and the power of integrity.

Jason and Samantha stood together, reflecting on the case. “In the end, it’s about bringing the truth to light,” Jason said, a sense of resolve in his voice.

“Michael’s pursuit of truth won’t be forgotten. It’s up to us to ensure that,” Samantha added, her gaze steady.

The university community mourned the loss of Michael Richardson, but his legacy lived on, inspiring a renewed commitment to truth and integrity. For Detectives Jason Whitefield and Samantha Demille, the case was a poignant reminder of the complexities of justice and the enduring power of truth in the face of darkness.

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SHORT STORIES FRIDAYS (145)

ETERNAL LIFE : A CRIME THRILLER BY ME.

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Detective Miller stood by the pool, surveying the scene. The shimmering water reflected the grandeur of the mansion, now tainted by the grim discovery.

“Miller, this is the third one in a month. Same M.O.,” Officer Rodriguez remarked, flipping through notes.

“Any connections between the victims?” Miller questioned, narrowing his eyes.

“None that we’ve found so far. Different backgrounds, but all in their eighties. Strangely targeted.”

The detective approached the coroner as they examined the elderly woman’s body. “Doc, cause of death?”

“Drowning, Miller. Looks like she struggled. Same as the others,” replied the coroner.Miller rubbed his temples, piecing together the puzzle. He decided to revisit the first crime scene, hoping to find a common thread.

Detective Miller delved deeper into the first crime scene, the opulent residence of the initial victim, Eleanor Davis. As Detective Miller meticulously sifted through the possessions of the elderly woman, Eleanor Davis, a seemingly inconspicuous notebook caught his attention. It contained references to a cryptic “Project Eternity.”

Eleanor’s excitement echoed in her words: “I am very grateful to be a part of such a prestigious project. My doctor has assured me of an eternal life. If the experiment is successful, I would continue to live forever. I have decided to give him $50,000 for his service to humanity.”

The revelation sparked Miller’s determination to uncover the identity of this mysterious doctor. However, frustration crept in as Eleanor had omitted the doctor’s name, either deliberately or out of fear.Undeterred, Miller extended his investigation to the homes of two other victims, Charlotte King and Rubina Trevor.

To his astonishment, he found similar notebooks expressing gratitude towards an unnamed doctor. The pattern deepened the mystery, leaving Miller grappling with the challenge of identifying the common thread connecting these grateful yet secretive individuals.

Detective Miller, determined to unveil the identity of the mysterious doctor, took the investigative route of obtaining medical records from the next of kin for Eleanor Davis, Charlotte King, and Rubina Trevor. His persistence paid off when he hit upon a jackpot – all three victims were being treated by the same doctor, Dr. Richard Hamilton.

The revelation marked a significant breakthrough, linking the victims to a common medical practitioner and raising new questions about Dr. Hamilton’s involvement in their untimely deaths.Armed with a search warrant, Detective Miller meticulously combed through Dr. Richard Hamilton’s clinic and mansion for evidence.

Although the clinic yielded nothing of note, Miller’s attention was piqued when he entered the master bedroom and discovered peculiar artifacts – ancient manuscripts delving into alchemy and life extension theories.

His suspicions heightened, leading him to a locked room that, upon being opened, revealed a makeshift laboratory. Inside, a bizarre amalgamation of medical equipment and esoteric symbols hinted at the doctor’s involvement in activities beyond conventional medical practice.

Financial records revealed Hamilton’s affiliation with a clandestine organization that funded his research into achieving immortality.

In a tense confrontation at Hamilton’s mansion, Miller accused, “You’ve been drowning these innocent people, searching for some twisted secret to everlasting life!”

Hamilton, calm and collected, retorted, “Detective, it’s not about immortality. It’s about control. Watching life slip away, holding the power in my hands.”

As Miller slapped on the handcuffs, Hamilton continued, “I chose the elderly because their deaths draw less attention. I wanted to play God, deciding when their time was up.”

The confession sent shivers down Miller’s spine. Hamilton’s motive was a sinister desire for dominion over life and death, a god complex masked in a seemingly scientific pursuit.

In the end, Detective Miller’s dedication and sharp intuition exposed the chilling motives of a serial killer who sought control over mortality itself.

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#DetectiveMiller #MysteriousProjectEternity #DrRichardHamilton #CrimeThriller #SerialKiller #EternalLifeQuest #InvestigationBreakthrough #EsotericSymbols #LifeExtension #DarkConspiracy #SearchWarrant #ChillingRevelation

SHORT STORIES FRIDAYS (140)

A DARK CONSPIRACY : A CRIME THRILLER BY ME.

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It was a caliginous night. An eerie darkness had descended upon the streets of Kolkata. Victoria Lane appeared deserted, with only a few stray dogs making occasional appearances; there wasn’t a single soul in sight.

Suddenly, a fire engine made its way through the lane, announcing its arrival with the siren shattering the silence.Inspector Ajit Vardaan squinted through the haze of smoke as the fire engine roared past. The flickering flames illuminated the charred facade of the once-stately house on Victoria Lane.

The acrid scent of burning wood hung heavy in the air.A solemn Chief Investigating Officer of the Fire Department, Samarth Namdaar, approached Ajit. “Faulty wiring, it seems. Unfortunate accident,” he remarked, surveying the devastation. They discovered three charred bodies which were sent for autopsy.

Ajit, however, remained skeptical. “Something doesn’t add up, Namdaar. Why would faulty wiring suddenly cause such an inferno? We need to dig deeper.”The investigation began with interviews. Neighbors spoke of an argument the family had the night before.  

As he questioned the neighbors, a startling revelation emerged – the victim’s wife, Arunima, and daughter, Deepa, were missing.Ajit’s suspicions deepened as he delved into the mystery of the fire. He decided to visit the local police station to gather more information about Arunima and Deepa.

The officer on duty handed him a missing persons report filed just hours before the fire.A witness, Mrs. Basu, recounted hearing raised voices from the victim’s house the night before. Ajit pressed her for details, and she mentioned catching a glimpse of a mysterious figure lurking in the shadows. “It was like someone was watching them,” she whispered, fear evident in her eyes.

Determined to unravel the truth, Ajit and his team scoured the burned remnants of the house. Among the charred debris, they discovered a partially melted necklace – a valuable family heirloom. The significance of this find puzzled Ajit, intensifying his resolve to crack the case.

Ajit, now convinced that the fire was a cover-up for a larger conspiracy, confronted Chief Namdaar. “This goes beyond faulty wiring, Namdaar. We have a case of arson to silence witnesses. The question is, who orchestrated this inferno and why?”

As the investigation progressed, a cryptic note surfaced among Arunima’s personal belongings. It read, “The secrets within ignite the flames without.” Ajit sensed a sinister undertone and sought out an expert cryptographer, Professor Ananya Roy.

Professor Roy deciphered the note, revealing a hidden compartment in the garage of the house that contained a set of confidential documents related to a high-profile corporate scandal. The missing family members, Arunima and Deepa, were potential witnesses.

A breakthrough came when Ajit scrutinized the corporate scandal documents found in the hidden compartment in the garage. Among them were coded financial transactions linking Raghav Malhotra and Shikha Verma to a notorious criminal organization.

Ajit sought the expertise of a forensic accountant, who deciphered the intricate money trail, exposing the collusion between the seemingly legitimate business and the criminal underworld.

Ajit meticulously unraveled the web of deception, discovering the masterminds behind the sinister plot. The trail led him to influential businessman Raghav Malhotra and corrupt politician Shikha Verma.

As he delved deeper into their connections, he uncovered a nefarious alliance aimed at safeguarding their illicit interests. He also found out that the deceased, Kumar, who was Malhotra ‘s employee, had overheard the conversation between Malhotra and Verma to skim off money from a Government project!

Ajit obtained search warrants for getting access to Malhotra’s and Verma’s houses. Ajit’s investigation took a dark turn when they discovered a hidden basement in Raghav Malhotra’s bungalow. Five human skeletons were unearthed, revealing a horrifying truth – Arunima, Deepa, Nancy, Jayant, and Rajesh had been kidnapped, tortured, and brutally murdered prior to the fire. Nancy, Jayant, and Rajesh were Verma’s colleagues who were unfortunate to witness their boss and her partner in crime, killing Arunima and Deepa.

Kumar and his sons had suffered the same gruesome fate.

The revelation sent shockwaves through the investigative team. Ajit’s determination to uncover the truth intensified as he connected the dots between the corporate scandal and the heinous crimes committed by Malhotra and Verma.

It became clear that the fire was not just a cover-up but a ruthless attempt to erase any trace of their sinister activities.Ajit confronted the criminals with the ghastly evidence, exposing not only their involvement in the arson but also the chilling details of the kidnappings and murders.

The cryptic note, “The secrets within ignite the flames without,” took on a sinister meaning as the secrets hidden in the basement fueled the inferno that had engulfed Victoria Lane.

During the interrogation, the criminals reluctantly admitted to orchestrating the fire to destroy evidence and eliminate the potential witnesses, Arunima and Deepa. The necklace found in the wreckage was revealed to be a token given to Arunima by her father, acting as a symbol of the family’s connection to the damning documents.

The arrest of Malhotra and Verma marked the end of their reign of terror, but the haunting memories of the victims lingered in the charred remains of the once-stately house. Ajit, despite solving the case, couldn’t shake off the darkness that had descended upon Kolkata’s streets, forever changed by the horrors he had uncovered.

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SHORT STORIES FRIDAYS (139)

MOTIVE FOR MURDER : A CRIME THRILLER BY ME.

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In the heart of the bustling city, Detective Thomas Darrow strode into Mr. Emerson’s workshop. The once vibrant space now held the haunting scene of the esteemed dog trainer’s tragic demise. With a quick scan of the room, Darrow knew this was no mere accident.

“Who found the body?” Darrow inquired, eyeing the gathered crowd.

“It was me, Detective,” a shaken voice replied. It was Amelia, the passionate passerby with rumored ties to Mr. Emerson. “I… I was just passing by when I heard the crash. I ran in and found him on the floor.”

Darrow observed her carefully before turning to Steven, a longtime friend of the victim. “And you, Steven, when was the last time you saw Mr. Emerson?”

“Just yesterday,” Steven replied, his voice tinged with resentment. “He got the promotion I deserved. We argued, sure, but I’d never… I’d never do something like this.”

As Darrow investigated further, he stumbled upon an intriguing discovery—a half-constructed device, an innovative tool Mr. Emerson had been working on. He picked it up, examining it closely. “This is impressive work. What was Mr. Emerson making?”

“That’s his latest project,” Samantha, another close acquaintance, spoke up. “He believed it would revolutionize dog training.”

Darrow nodded, his mind racing. As he inspected the victim’s hand, a peculiar substance caught his eye. “What’s this under Mr. Emerson’s nails?” he muttered to himself.

In the grip of the victim’s hand lay a crumpled note, hastily scribbled with trembling letters. Darrow carefully unfolded it. “Betrayal… a warning?” he murmured, piecing together the cryptic message.

Turning to the workshop’s uncharacteristic tidiness, Darrow remarked, “Mr. Emerson’s space is usually chaotic, yet it’s impeccably neat today. Something’s off.”

Amelia stepped forward hesitantly. “Detective, I found this,” she said, handing Darrow a torn piece of fabric. “It was caught on one of the tools near where he fell.”

Darrow studied the fabric, noting the faint traces of a peculiar substance similar to what was found under Mr. Emerson’s nails. “This might be a vital clue.”

As the investigation twisted and turned, Darrow confronted the suspects individually, pressing for explanations and alibis. Despite the tangled web of motives, alibis held, and seemingly solid leads turned into dead ends.

Yet, amidst the chaos, a forgotten grudge emerged. Matthew, a simmering resentment for Mr. Emerson, surfaced—a dispute over credit for a groundbreaking dog training technique years prior.

Confronting Matthew in the workshop, Darrow’s voice echoed through the space. “You held a grudge against Mr. Emerson. Your resentment drove you to this.”

Matthew’s eyes widened in disbelief. “You can’t pin this on me!” he protested, attempting to maintain composure.

But Darrow revealed the crucial piece—the fabric and its peculiar substance, matching what was found under Mr. Emerson’s nails, traceable back to the prototype device Matthew had helped create.

“You had access, opportunity, and a motive. You used your resentment to push him,” Darrow declared.

Defeated, Matthew slumped. “I’ll confess,” he admitted, resignation in his voice.

As Matthew was led away, the workshop fell into an eerie silence. Darrow stood amidst the tools, contemplating the shadows that lurked behind seemingly ordinary faces. Justice had prevailed, but the intricate emotions intertwined within human connections left a haunting echo in the room.

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MURDER AT ARROW PASS(ARC)

ANNE SHILLOLO

Anne Shillolo has once again proven her mastery in the world of crime thrillers with “Murder At Arrow Pass.” A scintillating page-turner, this masterpiece exemplifies the essence of an ideal crime thriller, filled with twists and turns that keep readers enthralled from start to finish.

Inspector Hilary Casgrain and her team are thrust into a riveting series of events, beginning with a catastrophic highway accident at Arrow Pass. As the investigation unfolds, the discovery of dead bodies and missing vehicles intensifies the mystery, leaving little to no clues for the team to decipher.

The pressure mounts as Casgrain realizes a relentless killer is at large, circling and ready to strike again. The narrative weaves a web of violence threatening Elk Ridge’s community, drawing readers into a gripping tale that spans from a posh ski resort to the quaint main street, unraveling desperate questions without easy answers.

With a winter storm complicating matters and a seemingly random stabbing at a local establishment, the small-town police department, under Hilary’s leadership, faces an array of challenges.

As the past casts its ominous shadow, the narrative propels forward, delivering an immersive tale rife with danger and suspense.Anne Shillolo’s expert penmanship shines in this riveting book, skillfully crafting a compelling narrative of suspense, danger, and unrelenting intrigue.

“Murder At Arrow Pass” is an exceptional addition to the genre, showcasing Shillolo’s prowess in creating an immersive and thrilling crime mystery that readers won’t be able to put down.

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SHORT STORIES FRIDAYS (118)

COLD BLOODED SECRET: A CRIME THRILLER BY ME

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In the heart of Prague, where centuries of history and mystique collide, a chilling mystery was about to unravel. The victim, a young woman in her early twenties, lay lifeless at the bottom of a grand mansion’s swimming pool, her pale face reflecting the eerie moonlight. Detective Eva Novak, a seasoned investigator known for her intuition, had been assigned to the case.

Eva’s first glance at the crime scene sent shivers down her spine. The mansion was shrouded in secrets, and the body’s position in the pool seemed deliberate. She leaned down, her gloved hand reaching out to lift the girl’s wrist for signs of life. Cold and lifeless, confirming the victim had been dead for approximately 24 hours.

The post-mortem revealed a gruesome truth – the young woman had been stabbed multiple times, a punishment that bore a sinister message. Eva couldn’t help but wonder who could harbor such malevolence in their heart to execute such a heinous act.

As Eva delved into the victim’s life, the puzzle grew more complex. The girl, Sophie, was a scholarship student from a humble background, and her presence in the mansion was a mystery in itself. The mansion belonged to a wealthy industrialist, Viktor Kozlov, who had a penchant for keeping his personal life hidden from the world.

Eva questioned Viktor, who appeared genuinely shocked and claimed no knowledge of Sophie. The motive for the murder remained elusive, and she continued her investigation. The mansion held a library with rare books, a sanctuary for Viktor, and Eva couldn’t help but notice the peculiar titles on his shelves.

As the days passed, the case grew darker. Eva’s attention was drawn to Viktor’s estranged son, Andrei, a man with a reputation for unpredictable behavior. The tension between father and son was palpable, and Eva couldn’t help but wonder if a grudge had turned deadly.

One evening, Eva decided to return to the mansion, convinced that the answers lay within its grand walls. As she wandered through the library, a forgotten diary caught her eye. The diary contained the darkest of secrets, revealing that Sophie was the daughter of Viktor Kozlov, hidden away due to an extramarital affair. Her murder was a result of the family’s desperate attempt to erase the scandal.

Eva confronted Viktor with the diary’s damning evidence, leading to a chilling confession. The climax of the psychological thriller unfolded in the mansion’s grand hall, where justice was served. The dark secrets of a family fractured by betrayal and greed had finally been unveiled.

Detective Eva Novak’s unwavering pursuit of the truth had unraveled a sinister web of deception, unveiling the identity of the murderer hidden within the shadows of a grand mansion.

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SHORT STORIES FRIDAYS (112)

THE PHANTOM UNVEILED: A CRIME THRILLER BY ME

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Detective Claire Monet and her partner, Detective Henri Dubois, had been tirelessly pursuing a notorious criminal known as “The Phantom” in the dimly lit streets of Paris. The Phantom’s signature was a single white rose clutched in the lifeless hand of each victim. Despite their efforts, the killer remained elusive.

One evening, in Claire’s dimly lit office, she received an anonymous letter containing chilling photographs from crime scenes. She showed them to Henri, who was equally perplexed.

Henri furrowed his brow, “Claire, these are from our cases. How did someone get hold of these?”

Claire’s voice quivered, “I think I might know more about these murders than I remember.”

She began recounting a haunting story from her past, revealing a childhood trauma. “Years ago, criminals broke into our home. They pointed a gun at my parents, and I watched them being murdered.”

Henri’s expression softened, “Claire, I had no idea. That’s unimaginable.”

Claire explained that her memories of the incident were repressed, but these photographs seemed to be fragments of her lost memories. It was a chilling revelation that left them both bewildered.

They decided to seek professional help from Dr. Isabelle Laurent, a renowned psychologist specializing in trauma and dissociative disorders.

In Dr. Laurent’s cozy Parisian office, Claire nervously recounted her childhood trauma and her recent experiences with the anonymous letter. Dr. Laurent listened intently, her expression thoughtful.

“Claire, what you’re describing is not uncommon,” Dr. Laurent began. “Traumatic events can lead to the development of dissociative identities as a way for the mind to cope with overwhelming distress. We need to explore your memories and inner world carefully to understand the connection between your alter ego and these crimes.”

Over the following weeks, Claire embarked on a harrowing journey into her own psyche, guided by Dr. Laurent. Together, they unraveled layers of repressed memories. Claire discovered that her alter ego, “The Phantom,” had emerged as a coping mechanism on that fateful night when her parents were murdered.

One day, Claire recalled witnessing her parents’ murder, but there was a twist to the memory. She remembered seeing herself, or rather, another version of herself – The Phantom – committing the crime.

Tears streamed down Claire’s face as she confessed, “It’s like I was two people at once. The scared little girl hiding in the closet and the person who… who killed my parents.”

Dr. Laurent nodded, her voice calm and reassuring. “Claire, what you’re describing is Dissociative Identity Disorder. The mind can split to protect itself from unbearable trauma. Your alter ego, The Phantom, emerged as a way to shield your conscious self from the horror of that night.”

Claire’s realization was both liberating and horrifying. She was simultaneously the detective hunting the criminal and the criminal herself. The photographs from the anonymous letter were not random; they were her own handiwork during moments when The Phantom took control.

As the truth settled in, Claire was overwhelmed by guilt and fear. She looked at Dr. Laurent, desperation in her eyes. “What do I do now, doctor? How can I stop The Phantom from hurting more people?”

Dr. Laurent’s voice was steady. “We will work together to integrate your identities, to heal the wounds of the past, and ensure that you regain control over your life.”

Claire’s journey to confront her inner demon and prevent further atrocities had just begun. Paris watched as the detective embarked on an unprecedented mission, not only to solve the crimes but to save herself from the darkness within.

Claire’s therapy sessions with Dr. Laurent continued, and they explored the triggers that allowed The Phantom to take control. Claire began to notice small improvements, gaining some awareness when The Phantom tried to emerge. This newfound control empowered her.

Meanwhile, in Paris, the murders continued, perpetrated by a copycat imitating The Phantom’s signature white rose calling card. Claire knew she had to catch the imitator and put an end to the reign of terror.

The Phantom’s copycat left cryptic messages at crime scenes, taunting Claire. At a gruesome murder scene, a message scrawled in red paint read: “The Phantom and his Puppet.”

Henri looked at Claire with concern. “This imitator knows about your struggle, Claire. They’re trying to exploit it.”

Claire nodded grimly. “We need to catch them before they ruin more lives.”

The race to capture the copycat intensified. Claire’s ability to anticipate when The Phantom might emerge gave her an edge in the investigation. But with each crime scene, the lines between her identities blurred further, and the city’s fear deepened.

The Phantom’s copycat led Claire on a deadly game of cat and mouse through the labyrinthine streets of Paris. Each clue brought her closer to the imitator’s true identity and, by extension, the depths of her own past.

The tension reached its peak one rainy night beneath the shadow of the Eiffel Tower. Claire stood alone, drenched by the downpour, facing a figure shrouded in darkness.
As the rain poured beneath the shadow of the Eiffel Tower, the climactic moment arrived for Detective Claire Monet to unmask the true identity of the sinister copycat killer.
Claire, soaked to the bone, confronted the figure cloaked in darkness. The copycat’s voice, dripping with malice, echoed through the raindrops. “Ah, Detective Monet, it’s time to reveal the truth, isn’t it? The darkness within you.”

Claire’s voice trembled but remained resolute. “I know who I am now, and I won’t let you exploit my past any longer.”

The ensuing confrontation was a tumultuous battle of wills, a reflection of Claire’s internal struggle personified. The copycat, driven by obsession, was finally unmasked, and as Claire illuminated their face with her flashlight, her heart sank.

It was Officer Pierre Duval, her former partner.

Pierre’s eyes were filled with a cocktail of remorse and madness as he continued, “You see, Claire, I couldn’t bear the guilt anymore. I couldn’t live with the secrets of our past. So, I decided to expose you and myself.”

Claire’s shock was palpable. “You were there that night, Pierre, when my parents were murdered.”

Pierre nodded, a tear mixing with the rain on his face. “Yes, Claire, I was. I was the one who killed them, driven by greed and fear. And I’ve been living with that darkness ever since.”

Their confrontation became a moment of reckoning, not just for Claire but for Pierre as well. He had sought to divert attention from his own sins by creating a copycat killer, exploiting Claire’s dissociative disorder in the process.

The rain continued to pour, washing away the sins of the past. Paris would never forget the horrors it had witnessed, but with the copycat unmasked, the healing could begin. Claire and Pierre were bound by a shared history, one marred by tragedy and darkness.

Amidst the pouring rain, Claire felt a surge of conflicting emotions. She couldn’t comprehend the magnitude of Pierre’s betrayal and the depth of his remorse. Her voice was a mixture of anger and sorrow. “Pierre, you’ve destroyed so many lives with your actions.”

Pierre’s shoulders slumped as he lowered the weapon he had been clutching. “I know, Claire. I can’t undo what I’ve done, but I can’t bear the weight of it any longer.”

Claire took a step forward, her gaze unwavering. “We both need to face the consequences of our past, Pierre, but not like this.”

With a heavy heart, Claire disarmed Pierre, and together they waited for the police to arrive. The rain continued to fall, cleansing the city of its secrets and sins.

In the aftermath, as Pierre faced justice for his crimes, Claire continued her therapy with Dr. Laurent. The integration of her identities became her top priority, and she was determined to use her experiences to help others struggling with similar trauma.

The city of Paris began to heal, knowing that The Phantom was no longer a threat, and the copycat had been unmasked. Claire Monet’s journey was far from over, but she was determined to turn the darkness within her into a force for good, ensuring that no one else would suffer as she had.

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SHORT STORIES FRIDAYS (109)

TRUTH OF DECEPTION : A CRIME THRILLER BY ME.

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In the heart of Manhattan, under the sweltering summer sun, Federal Investigator Jonathan Kirk found himself at the doorstep of the supposed haunted summer house, Magnolia. It loomed ominously, casting eerie shadows on the cobblestone path leading to its entrance. As he entered, the old wooden floors creaked, and a shiver ran down his spine.

Melinda Parker, a trusted FBI investigator, met him at the door, her steely gaze unwavering. “Kirk, this place gives me the creeps,” she muttered, her voice barely above a whisper.

Jonathan nodded, his eyes scanning the room where the first couple had met their tragic end. It was as if the room held secrets it was unwilling to reveal. “We need to find out what happened here,” he replied. “Ronald, check for any surveillance footage, and William, see if there are any witnesses around the area.”

As the investigation unfolded, the team discovered cryptic symbols etched into the walls, and unsettling whispers seemed to echo through the house. It was as if the house itself held the key to the mystery.

Meanwhile, news of the vanished international flight sent shockwaves through the FBI headquarters. The timing was too coincidental to ignore, and Jonathan couldn’t help but wonder if these two cases were connected somehow.

Days turned into weeks, and the investigation seemed to lead nowhere. Frustration mounted as the corrupt informant fed them false leads and dead ends. It was then that Ronald Hamilton, with a furrowed brow, approached Jonathan. “I’ve been digging into the background of our informant,” he said, his voice low. “Something’s not right. He has connections to some powerful people.”

Jonathan nodded, a gnawing suspicion growing in his gut. “Keep digging, Ronald. We might be onto something big.”

Just as hope seemed to wane, a breakthrough came in the form of a hidden compartment in the haunted house. Inside, they found a trove of documents linking the murders to a secret organization operating under their very noses. Among the documents, a series of encrypted messages caught Jonathan’s eye.

Deciphering the messages, they revealed a chilling plan orchestrated by none other than their FBI Director, Thomas Redwood. The clues pointed towards a motive: Redwood’s thirst for power and control. He had masterminded these crimes to create chaos, diverting resources from the FBI to further his own sinister agenda. He had asked one of his men to hijack the plane and land it in Florida.

As Jonathan delved deeper into the conspiracy, he couldn’t shake the feeling that someone close was involved. He called a meeting with his trusted investigators in a dimly lit Manhattan cafe.

“The pieces are falling into place,” he said, his voice trembling with the weight of the revelation. “Our informant was a pawn, and Director Redwood is the puppet master.”

Melinda’s eyes widened, and William’s jaw tightened. “But why, Jonathan?” William asked.

Jonathan leaned in, sharing Redwood’s dark motive, “He wanted to weaken the FBI, making it easier for him to manipulate and control the agency, all for his own gain.”

As they exposed the conspiracy, the climax unfolded in a dramatic showdown within the haunted house. Director Redwood’s sinister motives were revealed, and he was apprehended, his reign of terror brought to an end.

In the end, the haunted house’s secrets were exposed, and the vanished flight’s passengers were rescued. The city of Manhattan could breathe a sigh of relief, knowing that justice had prevailed and that their trusted FBI investigators had thwarted one of the most deadly conspiracies orchestrated by their very own Director.

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SHORT STORIES FRIDAYS (105)

UNSEEN SHADOWS : A CRIME THRILLER

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Unseen Shadows

Detective James Monroe had just had his first day off in months. He was looking forward to a peaceful evening at home, curled up with a good book. But fate had other plans.As James lounged in his favorite armchair, engrossed in a crime novel, the doorbell rang. He frowned, not expecting any visitors. Reluctantly, he got up and opened the door, only to find a package sitting on his porch.

Confused, he picked it up and examined it. There was no return address, and his name was hastily scrawled on the top.Curiosity getting the better of him, James brought the package inside, placing it on his coffee table. He carefully sliced open the packaging tape, revealing a shoebox.

Inside the box, he found stacks of cash, a loaded gun, and a note that read: “You know too much.”James’s mind raced, trying to make sense of the situation. Who would send him this? And what did they mean by “You know too much”? Questions flooded his thoughts, and he knew he had stumbled upon something dangerous.

Deciding to investigate further, James contacted his trusty informant, Carla, a streetwise hacker who always had her finger on the pulse of the city’s underworld. After briefing her on the situation, he arranged to meet her later that night at an old, abandoned warehouse.

Inside the dimly lit warehouse, Carla’s laptop bathed their faces in an eerie glow as she revealed her findings. “James, you’ve unwittingly become tangled in a web of corruption,” Carla murmured, her voice laced with worry.

She showed him surveillance footage from a recent high-profile bank robbery. The face of the mastermind was blurred, but James noticed something familiar about the way the thief moved – a peculiar mannerism he had seen before.

As they continued to dig deeper, they discovered a connection between the heist and a notorious gang leader, Don Castillo. Rumors suggested that Don Castillo had gone rogue, out for revenge against his former partners. And it seemed James had unwittingly become entangled in the crossfire.Determined to uncover the truth, James and Carla delved further into the mysteries surrounding Don Castillo.

They discovered a secret hideaway where Castillo was rumored to be hiding.Armed with their findings, they cautiously approached the hideout, ready for a confrontation. But to their surprise, they were greeted by a middle-aged woman, Mrs. Jenkins, who humbly invited them in.

As they entered the house, they were taken aback by the sight of Don Castillo sitting in a wheelchair, his once powerful frame now frail and battered. “You have exposed me,” he hissed, his voice tinged with anger. “But you have no idea what I am capable of.”

In a shocking twist of events, Mrs. Jenkins betrayed Don Castillo, revealing herself as the true mastermind behind the bank robbery. She had orchestrated the entire operation to frame Castillo and take over his criminal empire.

As the truth unfolded, James and Carla engaged in a thrilling fight to apprehend Mrs. Jenkins. In a heated exchange of gunfire, they managed to overpower her, bringing an end to her reign of terror.As James looked back on the events that had unfolded, he couldn’t help but feel a mixture of relief and awe.

He had embarked on an unexpected journey, one that had exposed the darkness lurking within unsuspecting shadows.But amidst the chaos, he had also found an unwavering ally in Carla. Together, they had unraveled a web of deceit, bringing justice to those who had thought themselves untouchable.

And as the dust settled, James knew that his life as a detective would never be the same. The unseen shadows had been revealed, and he would forever be vigilant in the face of unexpected twists and turns.

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